Getting Around Munich: The Complete Transit Guide

Munich's public transport (MVV) is a model of German efficiency — integrated, punctual, and comprehensive. Here's how to navigate it like a local.

The Network

U-Bahn (U1–U8): Subway — 95 km, 96 stations. Core frequency: 5–10 min.
S-Bahn (S1–S8): Commuter rail — 440 km, suburbs to Alps. Runs through Stammstrecke (central tunnel).
Tram (13 lines): Surface network — 80 km. Vital for neighborhoods U/S-Bahn miss.
Bus (60+ lines): Feeder + crosstown. Night buses (N-lines) replace U/S-Bahn 1–4 AM.

Tickets & Fares (2024)

Single trip (Kurzstrecke 4 stops): €2.00
Single (1 zone): €3.70 | Day ticket (1 zone): €8.20
München City Pass (1 day): €15.50 — unlimited transit + 40+ museums/attractions
Group day ticket (5 people): €15.50
Bavaria Ticket (regional trains): €26 + €8/person — great for day trips

Buy: MVV app, station machines, tram/bus driver (cash). Validate paper tickets.

Strategic Tips

• Airport: S1/S8 (40 min to Marienplatz) — *not* U-Bahn. Buy "München Pass" zone M-5.
• Tourist circuit: U3/U6 (Marienplatz ↔ Olympiazentrum), S8 (Marienplatz ↔ Airport).
• Bike integration: MVG Rad (bikeshare) at 200+ stations. First 30 min free with MVV subscription.
• Avoid driving: Parking scarce/expensive (€3–5/hr). Environmental zone (green sticker required).

Accessibility

All U-Bahn stations elevator-equipped. S-Bahn mostly accessible. Trams low-floor. MVV app shows barrier-free routes.

Pro Move

Get the MVV app (iOS/Android) — real-time departures, route planner, ticket store, disruption alerts. Munich transit works *because* the app works.