Getting around Munich with public transport

Underground (U-Bahn)

Munich’s Underground network is the backbone of the system. With eight lines and nearly 100 stations, it connects the city centre with surrounding districts. Trains run every few minutes during the day, and stations are well signposted in German and English.

The Underground is especially useful for:

• Sightseeing – stops near the Olympic Park, Deutsches Museum, Allianz Arena, and BMW Welt.
• Fast journeys – trains every 5 minutes during the day.
• Easy orientation – colour-coded lines and clear maps.

Suburban Train (S-Bahn)

The Suburban Train extends far beyond the city. With over 150 stations, it connects the centre with suburbs, nearby towns and the airport. In the city, all lines share one trunk line, stopping at Marienplatz, Karlsplatz (Stachus) and Hauptbahnhof.

Highlights:

• Airport access – S1 and S8 take you directly to and from Munich Airport.
• Day trips – reach Dachau Memorial Site, Lake Starnberg or Ammersee in under an hour.
• Dual character – underground in the city, above ground in the countryside.

Tram (Streetcar)

Munich’s tram network is one of the oldest in the world and still a beloved way to get around. Trams run above ground, giving you a view of the city as you travel.

Why use the tram?

• Scenic sightseeing – Tram 19 passes landmarks such as the National Theatre, Maximilianstraße, and the River Isar.
• Convenience – many stops are close together, ideal for short hops in the city centre.
• Comfort – most trams are modern, low-floor, air-conditioned, and wheelchair-accessible.

Bus

Buses cover routes not served by rail. While slower during rush hours, they are essential for reaching residential areas and certain attractions.

• Complete coverage – buses reach every corner of the city.
• Night service – reliable connections after Underground and Suburban Trains stop.
• Integrated fares – the same MVV ticket is valid on buses.

Tip: All modes are integrated under the MVV (Munich Transport and Tariff Association). One ticket works for Underground, Suburban Train, tram and bus.
 

Munich has an excellent transport network, which is operated by the Munich Transport and Tariff Association (MVV). The stations are well signposted and announcements are usually made in German and English. To help you find your way around, we recommend the following tools:

• MVV app: timetable information, ticket purchase and up-to-date information.
• Google Maps: reliable route planning in real time.
• MVV network map (download as PDF)

The MVV offers a wide range of tickets that can be used for different periods and zones:

• Single ticket – for a single journey within one zone
• Day ticket – valid for 24 hours, ideal for multiple journeys
• Group day ticket – for up to five people, particularly good value for families
• Weekly ticket – the right choice for longer stays

Tickets are available from machines in all stations, in the MVV app or at larger ticket offices. Prices are zone-based: most attractions are in Zone M (city centre). Short rides cost a few euros, while the airport journey is about €14 (as of October 2025, subject to change).

INFOBOX: How to use a ticket machine in Munich

Buying a ticket at a machine may feel unfamiliar at first, but the process is straightforward once you know the steps:

1. Locate the machine – you’ll find them at every Underground (U-Bahn) and Suburban Train (S-Bahn) station.
2. Select your language – tap the British or American flag symbol to switch to English.
3. Choose your ticket type – options include Single Ticket, Day Ticket, Group Day Ticket, or Weekly Ticket.
4. Select destination or zones – you can type in the station name or simply choose the correct travel zones.
5. Review and confirm – the screen shows your selected ticket and the price.
6. Make your payment – insert coins or banknotes, or pay with Visa/Mastercard. Many machines also accept contactless payment.
7. Collect your ticket – don’t forget to take the printed ticket from the slot.
8. Validate your ticket – before boarding, insert it into the small blue or red validation machine on the platform or inside trams and buses.

Tip: If you are unsure which option to choose, the MVV app provides the same tickets digitally and guides you step by step in English.

Unlike in many cities, Munich has no turnstiles or barriers. You simply walk onto the platform. However, inspectors regularly check tickets. If you are caught without a valid, stamped ticket, you face a fine (currently €60). Always validate before boarding.

• Credit Cards: Visa and Mastercard widely accepted
• Contactless Payments: Apple Pay and Google Pay often work, but it is best to have a card or some cash as backup.
• Cash: You can pay cash at ticket machines in S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations, and up to €20 on those on buses and trams.

Munich’s public transport is highly frequent:

• U-Bahn, S-Bahn and trams usually run every 5–10 minutes during the day.
• In the evening, intervals become slightly longer.
• At weekends, many U- and S-Bahn lines run through the night.

You might find the following tools quite helpful, when trying to navigate through the public transport network of Munich:

• MVV App: Available in English, with live departure boards and ticket purchase.
• Google Maps: Works perfectly for planning routes and shows real-time updates.

Thanks to the direct airport connection, you can get from the airport to the city and vice versa quickly and easily in Munich. You can choose from the following options:

• S1 and S8: run every 10 minutes to the city centre, journey time approx. 40 minutes
• Airport bus: non-stop to the main railway station
• Taxi or shuttle: convenient, approx. 45 minutes travel time

To help you find your way around more quickly, we recommend using the following apps and websites:

• MVV app
• Network map download
• Official MVV website

Munich’s public transport is accessible and visitor-friendly:

• Ticket machines offer English menus.
• Almost all stations have lifts or ramps.
• Staff at major hubs can usually help in English.

The network is clean, safe and reliable – even at night. Stations are well lit and monitored. Families and professionals use the system around the clock.

Tip: If checked, simply show your validated ticket or app screen.

To help you prepare for your journey on Munich's public transport system, we would like to share a few important tips and things you should definitely avoid doing.

• Luggage: suitcases are free of charge, lifts available at most stations.
• Bicycles: Bicycles are permitted outside peak hours with an additional bike ticket.
• Returning to the hotel: Save Platzl Hotel in Google Maps to easily find your way back after an evening at the beer garden or Christmas market.

• Forgetting to validate your ticket before travel.
• Confusing a 24-hour day ticket with a calendar day ticket (it is valid for a full 24 hours from purchase).
• Not realising that group tickets are valid for up to five people.

For international visitors, some German words might appear unfamiliar. Here is a quick guide:

• Can I buy tickets at the hotel? No, tickets for public transport are available from ticket machines, via the app or at the ticket office. However, our team at reception will be happy to help you with any questions you may have.
• Are there day passes for tourists? Yes. Individual or group Day Tickets are the easiest option for sightseeing.
• How do I get back to the hotel at night? Take any S-Bahn or U-Bahn to Marienplatz. From there, it is just a 5-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take a night bus, taxi or Uber back to the Platzl Hotel around the clock.
• Is it safe to take public transport at night? Yes. Munich’s network is safe and reliable, with all-night service on weekends.