Under $100: Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, the land of Octoberfest: “Where the beer flows like wine, and where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I’m talking about a little place called Munich.” Bonus points if you recognize that quote from the movie Dumb and Dumber.

There is so much to do in Munich and it is definitely feasible to enjoy the Germanic riches and culture on a budget.

Start off the morning properly and visit a local bäckerei (bakery) for a nice cappuccino and freshly baked array of pastries, breads, pretzels and breakfast rolls. That will run about €5–8.

Marienplatz © Msalena | Dreamstime

After breakfast, the best way to stretch your legs is join a bike tour. Mike’s Bikes offers tours for €31–50. If you don’t want to splurge on the longer tour, the €31 option is just as good.

An afternoon break in the English Garden is an absolute must. One of the bike tours makes a prolonged stop in the garden where you can enjoy a nice beer and zwischenmahlzeit (snack) for €10–12.

After the tour, coming back to Marienplatz for the strike of the clock is another obligatory visit. You can also watch the clock strike and enjoy the beautiful panorama of Munich from the tower of St. Peter’s Church. This will only run €2.

Hofbräuhaus © Bojan Bokic | Dreamstime

For even more history and culture, make sure you check out one of many Munich’s free walking tours. A tip at the end is at your discretion but the average given is €5–10 per person. Check out some options with Sandeman’s Tours, Freetour or In Munich Tours.

Last but not least, end the day with a visit to Hofbrauhous where you can drink liter beer, eat bratwurst and the best potato salad in the world and listen to a live traditional band while chatting with dozens of locals, about €15–25, depending on how many liters you can handle.