Sitting in the shadow of the Austrian Alps in South Bavaria, the weather in Munich is often mild. This city is where tradition meets modernity and has endless history and culture just waiting to be discovered. With so many events running year-round, when is the best time to visit Munich? Due to its location in central Europe, Munich weather is mild year-round and extreme weather events are incredibly rare. Temperatures range from -4°C in the winter to highs of 23 °C in the summer months. July is the hottest month with an average temperature of 18°C and the coldest is January at -1°C. Whatever the weather, there are plenty of events in Munich to keep you busy!
Autumn
Munich weather in September marks the end of the summer season as temperatures descend from the mid-twenties to highs of 19°C, remaining warm enough for you to enjoy the many beer Gardens throughout the city. By mid autumn, towards the end of the month of October, Munich in October brings drier days with much less rainfall which promises great weather at Oktoberfest! Temperatures range from 19°C down to 7°C which means you can still tour all of this city’s historical sights without the summer crowds. This is a great time to see a panorama of the city from the Olympic Tower or Alt Peter Church; you’ll have an unobstructed and breathtaking view without having to queue.
Things to do in Autumn
Munich in October is (of course) all about Oktoberfest! Oktoberfest Munich is the number one place to try beer in the city, as the 6 million revelers who attend every year will tell you. But despite the name, this festival which is known locally as Wiesn is actually held during the last two weeks of September. The weather during Oktoberfest is likely to be mild with temperatures usually remaining around the mid-teens at this time of year. Be sure to bring a coat in case the temperature drops; although the large crowds will certainly keep you warm! The local experience of Oktoberfest Munich is enjoying a traditional beer and celebrating with your favorite people.
Winter
Winter in Munich brings with it the cooler weather. Temperatures usually average between -1°C and 1°C and there is often snowfall. But not to worry; there are still plenty of things to do in Munich in the winter! The snow lightly dusts the rooftops of the old town, creating a postcard-style landscape; you could easily spend an afternoon marveling at these sights. Munich weather at this time of year is often bitingly cold, which makes it the perfect time to take refuge in places like Augustiner-Keller. With cozy candle-lit tables, traditional beers and some of Munich’s must-try Bavarian dishes on the menu, this is a great place to thaw your frozen fingertips and soak up some culture.
Things to do in Winter
One of the best things to do in Munich at the winter time is visit their Christmas markets. There are different markets which take place in many quarters throughout the city; stalls sell arts and crafts, as well as seasonal German food and beverages. This is a great place to experience Bavarian foods like Bratwurst. If you’re looking to escape the cold, head to Hofbräuhaus, the most famous beer hall in Munich. Constructed almost 500 years ago, the building has some amazing ornate ceilings and architecture. Sit on one of the many rows of benches and enjoy a beer with friends; there is always an upbeat atmosphere in here. The band on the first floor plays traditional folk music all day long, it is the perfect place to experience Bavarian culture.
Spring
Spring is often described as the best time to visit Munich and it’s not difficult to see why. Temperatures range from 9°C to a comfortable 17°C, creating the perfect weather to explore all of the sights without the crowds that the summer brings. May is the wettest month of the year with 40mm of rain, however there are still plenty of places to go. If the Munich weather is taking a turn for the worse, head to the Lenbachhaus for shelter. Munich’s largest collection of art, this building used to be owned by famous German artist Franz von Lenbach. There are exhibitions of well-known artists held at weekends where you can absorb some culture and shelter from the rain. When the weather dries up you can take a walk of the picturesque gardens and admire the architecture. This is a great place to experience Munich’s rich culture and history.
Things to do in Spring
One of the events in Munich that tourists often miss is Starkbierfest (The Strong Beer Festival). Considered the “fifth season” by locals, many breweries in Munich release special edition beers that are darker and stronger than usual just for this event. Held at the Paulaner Hall, this is your chance to celebrate this German delicacy with up to 5000 people! Like Oktoberfest, Starkbierfest is all about celebrating beer and togetherness; there is always a fun atmosphere. This is a perfect opportunity to try alternatives to the traditional beers and sample some of the best beer in Munich. Spring also brings the opportunity to relax in many of the open-air cafés and beer gardens dotted around the city; it really is the best time to visit Munich.
Summer
When debating when to visit Munich, many visitors often opt for summer. The height of the city’s tourist season, temperatures average between 15°C and 18°C around this time but can also reach highs of 23°C. There are 8 hours of sunshine a day in July, the most of the whole year! This is the perfect season to visit one of the city’s must-sees: the English Garden Park. Stretching from the city center to the north-eastern city limits, this is one of the largest urban parks in the world! A stroll through the green and along the Tsar River is the perfect family activity and a nice way to relax after a busy day sightseeing in the center. The English Garden Park is the perfect place to sunbathe and should be at the top of your list of things to do in Munich!
Things to do in Summer
One of the best things to do in Munich in the summer is visit The Tollwood Festival. This event takes place yearly during July and December and celebrates international cultures. There is a massive multicultural market which showcases art, music, dancing, and clothing from all over the world. There is also a music festival featuring alternative acts; the light shows and dancers make this weekend feel like one giant party! If you want to escape from the crowds, the nearby Olympic Tower offers a panoramic view of Munich and surrounding areas, including the Alps. The Tollwood Festival is a great way to celebrate with the locals and create a summer to remember.
So, when is the best time to visit Munich?
The best time to visit Munich is definitely during the spring time. The biting winter chill has thawed and the temperatures are mild and comfortable. You can enjoy the open-air beer gardens and stroll through English Garden Park without the big crowds of the summer and enjoy shorter queues for main attractions. Enjoy local events such as Starkbierfest for a real experience of Munich’s culture and try all of the must-eat Bavarian dishes while there is plenty to go around. Travelling to Munich during the spring allows you to experience everything this culturally-rich city has to offer peacefully and savor the moments.
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