Getting Around Munich. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation Overview MVV

The Munich Transport and Tariff Association (MVV) manages the integrated public transport system. It covers U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses, offering comprehensive city coverage.

The MVV provides comprehensive network maps online and at stations. The MVV website and app offer information on accessible routes and stations for travelers with mobility needs.

MVV Systems

U-Bahn (Underground/Subway): 8 lines covering the city center and districts.
S-Bahn (Suburban Train): 8 lines connecting the city center to adjacent areas and airport.
Trams (Strassenbahn): 13 lines complementing U-Bahn/S-Bahn, offering surface connections.
Buses: Extensive network for outer districts and night services.

Marienplatz

Central U-Bahn/S-Bahn interchange, close to major attractions.

Hauptbahnhof

Major U-Bahn/S-Bahn/Tram/Bus hub, connecting to inter-town trains.

Karlsplatz Stachus

A significant U-Bahn/S-Bahn/Tram hub for city access.

Ticketing & Fare Options

Ticket Types & Zones

Tariff Zones: Munich uses zones (M, M+1, etc.). Zone M covers the city center, M-5 encompasses the airport.
Single Ticket (Einzelfahrt): Valid for one journey in one direction (e.g., €3.70 for Zone M).
Day Ticket (Tageskarte): Unlimited travel for one calendar day (single or group options).

Passes & Validation

Multi-Day Tickets/IsarCard: Options available for longer stays.
Entwertung (Validation): Stamp paper tickets in blue machines before first boarding.
Digital tickets via app do not require separate validation.

Operating Hours & Frequencies

Weekdays

U-Bahn/S-Bahn: ~4:30 AM to 1:00 AM.

Weekends

Extended hours for U-Bahn/S-Bahn.

Peak Hours

High frequency (every 5-10 minutes).

Evenings/Weekends

Less frequent (every 10-20 minutes).

Taxi Services & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing offer convenient alternatives, especially for direct routes or late-night travel, and are generally safe.

Licensed Taxi Information

Munich taxis are cream-colored with a "Taxi" sign on the roof.
Hail them on the street, find at designated stands, or book via app/phone.
Start fare ~€5.50; per kilometer ~€2.30 - €2.90.
Cash is always accepted; confirm card payment with the driver beforehand.

Ride-Sharing Apps

AN APP for booking taxis and more (MyTaxi): Most popular app for booking licensed taxis.
Uber: Operates in Munich, offering various service levels.
Bolt: Another ride-sharing option in Munich.
Ensure vehicle/driver match app details for safety.

Rental Options

Car Rental: Minimum age 21 (some 25), valid driver's license (IDP if needed), credit card. Major companies: Avis, Hertz, Sixt.
Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals: Offered by specialized companies; similar requirements as cars.
Insurance: Ensure adequate coverage is included or purchased.

Bicycle Sharing/Rentals: MVG Rad, nextbike, and numerous rental shops available.
Traffic Regulations & Parking: Refer to Section 4.2 for driving laws. On-street parking is metered; plentiful (expensive) underground car parks.
Preserve AND Ride (P+R): Available at S-Bahn/U-Bahn outskirts for cheaper parking.

Driving & Environmental Zones

Road Conditions

Roads are generally excellent and well-maintained throughout Germany.

Environmental Zone

Munich city center requires a green 'Umweltplakette' (emission sticker).

Rental Car Stickers

Rental cars typically come equipped with the required emission sticker.

Walking & Cycling in Munich

Munich is a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly city, especially in its central areas and parks. Embrace these active methods to explore.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Altstadt (Old Town): Extensive pedestrian zones around Marienplatz, Kaufingerstraße.
Parks: English Garden, Hofgarten, Olympiapark are excellent for walking.
Isar River: River banks offer pleasant walking paths.
Walking Tours: Guided (historical, food) and self-guided options are available.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Extensive network of designated bike lanes (Radwege) throughout the city.
Cyclists must obey traffic laws.
Helmets are recommended but not legally required for adults.
Be aware of pedestrians in shared zones and watch for tram tracks.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Tour Buses

Various operators provide hop-on-hop-off services covering major attractions.

Convenient City Overview

Water Activities

Recreational boat rentals available on nearby lakes like Starnberger See and Ammersee.

Leisurely Lake Exploration

Accessibility Services

MVV provides info on accessible routes. Many attractions offer ramps, lifts, or specific services.

Inclusive Travel Support

Alpine Transport

Cable Cars & Funiculars

None operate within Munich city limits.
Available in the adjacent Bavarian Alps (e.g., to Zugspitze, Wendelstein).
Offers stunning scenic views of the Alpine landscape.

Unique Local Transport

Munich does not feature specialty vehicles like tuk-tuks or jeepneys for public transport.
Focus remains on its efficient integrated public transport system.
Walking and cycling are encouraged for exploring central areas.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

No specific "no-go" areas exist in Munich for pedestrians or cyclists.
Exercise general caution in dimly lit parks or secluded areas at night.
General city safety measures apply.
Stay aware of your surroundings, as in any urban environment.

Exercise caution around tram tracks when cycling.
Be mindful of traffic and pedestrians in shared spaces.
Protect personal belongings in crowded areas.
Stay informed about local advisories if any.

Sustainable & Efficient Travel Tips

Make the most of Munich's mass transit and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to enjoy the city sustainably and efficiently.

Public Transport Efficiency

Use the MVV App or Google Maps for real-time information and journey planning.
Purchase tickets for one day for extensive sightseeing to save money.
Group day tickets are specifically cost-effective for families or small groups.
Always validate paper tickets before boarding to avoid penalties.

Walking & Cycling Benefits

Explore pedestrian zones and parks on foot for a closer see the city.
Utilize Munich's extensive bike lanes for an active way to move around.
Combine public transport with bipedal movement or cycling for ideal exploration.
Enjoy the city's green spaces and river paths for leisurely activity.