The Ultimate Guide to Corporate Travel in Munich

Traveling to Munich for business? Buckle up, because this Bavarian gem offers way more than just productive meetings and PowerPoint presentations. From seamless transport options to after-work leisure, here’s everything you need to know to make your corporate trip to Munich both efficient and enjoyable.

Getting There

Flying into Munich is a breeze with Munich Airport (Flughafen München) being one of the busiest and best-connected airports in Europe. Whether you’re coming from across the continent or hopping over from the US or Asia, you’ll find plenty of direct flights. Plus, the airport itself is a well-oiled machine—expect swift connections and top-notch facilities.

Pro Tip: Consider signing up for a frequent flyer program if you travel often. The perks, like priority boarding and lounge access, can make your journey much smoother.

Smooth Transfers

Once you’ve landed, getting into the city center is hassle-free. You’ve got several options:

• S-Bahn: The S1 and S8 lines run directly from the airport to the city. It’s cost-effective and relatively quick.
• Taxi: If you prefer door-to-door service, grab a taxi. A bit pricier, but perfect after a long flight.
• Limousinenservice München: For those who crave comfort and a touch of luxury, hiring a limousine service could be the way to go. It’s especially handy for impressing clients or partners.

Insider Tip: The airport has a great selection of on-site rental car agencies. If you’re planning to drive a lot, renting a car can be convenient.

Getting Around

Munich’s public transport is efficient, clean, and reliable. The U-Bahn (underground), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses can get you pretty much anywhere you need to go. If you’re planning to move around a lot, consider getting a day pass or a weekly pass—they’re good value for money.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

For quick trips or if you’re running late, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available and relatively affordable.

Renting a Car

If you prefer the freedom of having your own wheels, renting a car is a solid option. Just remember that parking in the city center can be a bit tricky and expensive.

Biking

Munich is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike rental services and dedicated cycling paths. It’s a great way to explore the city, especially during the warmer months.

Pro Tip: Use the MVG bike-sharing app to find and rent bikes easily.

Where to Stay

Munich boasts a plethora of accommodation options catering to every budget and preference. For business travelers, location is key. Here are some top picks:

Luxury Hotels

• Bayerischer Hof: Located in the heart of Munich, this hotel offers top-tier luxury and extensive business facilities.
• Mandarin Oriental: Another fantastic choice in the city center, known for its impeccable service and opulent rooms.
• Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski: A historic hotel offering luxurious accommodations and a prime location on Maximilianstraße.

Mid-Range Hotels

• Hotel Torbräu: A charming, family-run hotel that’s been in operation since 1490. It’s centrally located and offers modern amenities.
• Novotel Munich City: A comfortable and convenient option with excellent business facilities.
• Leonardo Royal Hotel Munich: Offers modern accommodations and a range of amenities at a reasonable price.

Budget-Friendly Options

• Ibis Munich City: A no-frills option that’s clean, comfortable, and conveniently located.
• Meininger Hotel: Affordable with a youthful vibe, great for those who are traveling on a tighter budget but still need to be centrally located.
• Motel One: Known for its stylish design and affordability, with several locations across the city.

Where to Eat

Munich’s culinary scene is diverse and delightful. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between meetings or a more formal dining experience, the city has you covered.

Business Lunches

• Brenner Grill: Located near Maximilianstraße, it offers a chic setting and a versatile menu perfect for business lunches.
• Schumann’s Bar: An institution in Munich, it’s a great spot for a casual business meeting over a well-crafted meal.
• Tantris: Known for its exceptional cuisine and sophisticated ambiance, ideal for impressing clients.

Casual Bites

• Viktualienmarkt: This famous food market is ideal for grabbing a quick, delicious bite. Try the local sausages or a freshly baked pretzel.
• Augustiner Bräustuben: For a more authentic Bavarian experience, this beer hall offers hearty meals and a great atmosphere.
• Hofpfisterei: A popular bakery chain offering traditional Bavarian baked goods, perfect for a quick snack.

Fine Dining

• Tantris: For those looking to impress, this Michelin-starred restaurant is a must-visit. Exceptional cuisine and impeccable service make it perfect for high-stakes dinners.
• Atelier: Another Michelin-starred gem offering a refined dining experience with a creative twist.
• EssZimmer: Located within BMW Welt, this restaurant offers gourmet dining with a view of luxury cars.

Pro Tip: Many restaurants in Munich close their kitchens between lunch and dinner, so plan your dining times accordingly.

Meeting and Conference Venues

Munich is equipped with a variety of state-of-the-art venues for meetings, conferences, and events of all sizes.

Messe München

One of the largest trade fair venues in the world, Messe München hosts numerous international trade fairs and conferences. With modern facilities and excellent connectivity, it’s a top choice for large-scale events.

ICM – Internationales Congress Center München

Located within the Messe München complex, the ICM offers versatile spaces for congresses, conferences, and corporate events. Its cutting-edge technology and professional services ensure your event runs smoothly.

Hilton Munich Park

For smaller meetings and events, the Hilton Munich Park offers elegant spaces and comprehensive business services. Its serene location near the English Garden provides a pleasant setting for business gatherings.

Munich Marriott Hotel

A popular choice for business travelers, offering extensive conference facilities and a convenient location near the city center.

After-Work Activities

All work and no play is no way to go, especially in a city as vibrant as Munich. Here’s how you can unwind after a long day of meetings.

Sightseeing

• Marienplatz: The city’s central square, home to the stunning New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). Don’t miss the famous Glockenspiel show.
• Englischer Garten: One of the largest urban parks in the world. Perfect for a relaxing stroll, a boat ride, or even some surfing on the Eisbach wave.
• Nymphenburg Palace: A beautiful baroque palace with vast gardens—great for an afternoon break.
• Frauenkirche: Munich’s iconic cathedral with its distinctive twin towers.

Cultural Experiences

• Deutsches Museum: The world’s largest museum of science and technology. A fascinating place to spend a few hours.
• BMW Welt: A must-visit for car enthusiasts. Here you can explore the history and future of BMW.
• Pinakothek Museums: A trio of museums (Old, New, and Modern) offering a vast collection of art ranging from the medieval period to contemporary works.
• Alte Pinakothek: One of the oldest galleries in the world, featuring masterpieces from the 14th to 18th centuries.

Evening Entertainment

• Hofbräuhaus: The most famous beer hall in Munich. Experience traditional Bavarian culture with live music, hearty food, and, of course, excellent beer.
• Gärtnerplatztheater: For a night of opera, ballet, or musicals, this theater offers a rich program of performances.
• Schumann’s Bar: After a successful day, relax with a perfectly crafted cocktail at this iconic bar.
• P1 Club: Known for its exclusive atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, ideal for unwinding after a busy day.

Shopping

Whether you’re looking to pick up some gifts or treat yourself, Munich’s shopping scene won’t disappoint.

High-End Shopping

• Maximilianstraße: Known for its luxury boutiques and designer stores. A paradise for high-end shoppers.
• Kaufingerstraße: One of Munich’s oldest and busiest shopping streets, offering a mix of international brands and local retailers.

Souvenirs

• Viktualienmarkt: Beyond its food stalls, this market offers a variety of local goods perfect for souvenirs.
• Dallmayr Delicatessen: A historic delicatessen where you can find gourmet treats and beautiful gift hampers.
• Schuhbeck’s Gewürzladen: A spice shop owned by famous chef Alfons Schuhbeck, perfect for unique culinary gifts.

Tips for a Successful Business Trip

• Plan Ahead: Munich is a popular destination, so book your accommodation and transport well in advance, especially during major events like Oktoberfest.
• Dress Code: While Munich is relatively relaxed, business attire is still the norm for formal meetings. Smart casual is usually acceptable for informal gatherings.
• Learn a Few Phrases: While most business professionals speak English, learning a few basic German phrases can go a long way in making a positive impression.
• Stay Connected: Ensure you have a reliable internet connection. Most hotels and public places offer free Wi-Fi, but having a portable Wi-Fi device can be a lifesaver.