Technical University of Munich Undergraduate Admission Requirements for International Students

Last Updated on December 25, 2022

Technical University of Munich: Rankings, Fees, Courses, Admission 2021,  Eligibility & Scholarships

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Studying and Living in Munich (München) Study in Munich, Germany

If you don’t know how to start your tum bachelor programs in English for free in Germany, then read our post below to learn more about Technical University of Munich Undergraduate Admission Requirements for International Students. If you would like to apply for a bachelor’s degree program at the Technical University of Munich (TUM)? Here, you will find all the information you need.

Requirements to get a Bachelor degree in Munich

Certificates of a general higher education qualification allow you to apply to all programs at universities and (subject-specific) colleges in all the German states. The general higher education entrance qualifications include the following certificates:

  • Secondary school-leaving certificate (Gymnasium)
  • Evening university prep school certificate (Abendgymnasium)
  • Certificate of comprehensive secondary/upper secondary school
  • Certificate from institutes offering a university entrance qualification (Kolleg)
  • Certificate of having passed the final examination of a (technical) university degree program

-> List of all certificates for general higher education qualification

If the certificate was acquired outside of Bavaria, it is also necessary that a certificate from the state or a state-recognized school or college be presented; that the certificate is recognized in the country of origin as proof of general higher education qualification; and that the certificate is acquired at an educational institution meeting Bavarian standards after having attended an equivalent program of study and fulfilling equivalent performance requirements.

As regards the recognition of preliminary examination certificates from a non-Bavarian state university of applied sciences, the university decides on the basis of qualification regulations, and, in cases of doubt, in agreement with the Bavarian State Ministry of Education and Culture

Technical University Of Munich Undergraduate Admission Requirements For International Students

University Admission - TUM

Universities in Munich

Amongst a range of options, Munich is home to two of the best universities in Germany.

More than 50,000 students are enrolled at LMU Munich (Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität). It was founded in 1472, making it the oldest institution of higher learning in Bavaria. With world-class research and education, it frequently makes its way into the top 50 of global university rankings.

Its engineering-focused counterpart, Technical University of Munich (Technische Universität München, TUM), likewise ranks among the best universities in the world. Its graduates regularly take prestigious entry-level jobs at local industrial giants like BMW, Audi, Siemens, but TUM also frequently spawns a number of successful startups. Valuing its ties to the industry as well as its successful startup culture, TUM recognises itself as “The Entrepreneurial University”. With dozens of English-taught programmes on offer, almost a quarter of the student body is international. If you plan to study engineering or computer science in Europe, TUM should definitely be on your shortlist of potential choices.

Other study options include the Munich University of Applied Sciences with a broad range of practice-based programmes, the modern and Business-focused New European College, and the prestigious Academy of Fine Arts.

Prospective doctorate students in biology and neurology may also want to check out the PhD programme at International Max Planck Research School for Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences.

The University of Munich (Ludwig Maximilian University)

The University of Munich (Ludwig Maximilian University) offers 18 faculties covering a wide and a differentiated array of courses with as many as 150 subjects ranging from the Humanities and Cultural Sciences, Law, Economics, Social studies, Medicine and others.

The Technical University of Munich

Munich University of Applied Science

Munich University of Applied Science offers subjects like Technology, Design, Civil Engineering, Mechanical, Automotive and Aeronautical Engineering, Geoinformatics among its 14 departments.

Postgraduate study opportunities in Munich

Munich being the largest city in Germany, surprisingly still withholds the unique community feel of a village therefore some people refer to Munich as the “village with a million citizens”. Where one expects to find skyscrapers and multimillionaire companies, you’ll see cobbled alleyways and open plan outdoor seating where residents can spend an afternoon sipping a beer.

Munich is an optimal city to study a postgraduate course. It’s a safe, clean and multi-cultural city and most importantly it can be found in the list of the top ten best cities to live in.

There are lots of opportunities to study a graduate program in Munich, with several universities and colleges of further education. Munich is a leading world location for science and research.

ou can study at the following institutions, among others:

  • Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich
  • Technical University of Munich (TUM)
  • Munich Business School
  • Munich University of Applied Sciences
  • Bundeswehr University Munich

Munich is also home to a number of other research institutes among which the Max Planck Society, its headquarters localized in the city.

Graduate programs in Munich normally last for two years meanwhile the research programs and PhDs take up to three years to comprehend. Although international degrees are taught in English, many postgraduate courses are also taught in German. As such, you may have to take the German Language University Entrance Examination (DSH) to check your language suitability.

Why study in Munich

The many reasons to study in Munich are quite incredible and certain to leave you impressed. Whether you’re looking to earn an undergraduate or a graduate-level degree, the many choices in colleges and universities in the city are sure to impress you. Every single year there are thousands of people who travel to Munich for their studies. They arrive in the city with high expectations that are always met in abundance, thanks to the top-notch universities found throughout the city.

Munich colleges and universities are known for their high standards of excellence in teaching, and attending any of the institutes of higher learning assures that you are getting the best possible education. All of the schools offer the latest in technology and functionality, with special attention to Engineering, Medicine, Science and Economics among the most popularly chosen courses and majors in the country.

The cost of studying at a university in Munich is another reason to attend a college in the city as it is considerably lower than the costs of attending universities in other countries. Additionally, scholarships, grants and other forms of aid are also available to students pursuing their education.

Of course, the chance to experience Munich is yet another reason to study in the German city. While living in Munich you can attend university day or night, and spend your free hours exploring the magnificent city. There’s plenty to do so boredom is never something that you will experience. You will learn plenty about the culture of Munich, as well as Germany in general, as well as experience the richness first hand for yourself. Chances are high that you will also learn the German language, even if it is not what you came here for.

How nice will it be to arrive back in your country with this new language under your belt? Speaking to family and friends in German will certainly leave them very impressed!

The cost of living in Munich is more than reasonable. You can choose to work full or part-time as you attend university in the city, and with this choice you can expect to be able to save a great amount of money. Rent costs in Munich are very low; especially when you opt for university housing that is available. Also, utilities and other similar things are reasonably priced in Munich.

Working while studying in Munich

If you are a student attending a college or university in Munich, carrying on a job may be something that you wish to do. Having a job, whether it is a full-time or a part-time gig, can make it easier to afford the costs of living in the city. Munich is one of the best cities in Germany for work.

There are many well-known employers in Munich and there are also the not-so-well-known. There are a number of industries available, although most students in Germany choose to work in retail or catering. It is entirely up to you if you will take a job while you are studying in Munich.

Students coming into Munich from other countries have full opportunities to work while they are studying in the city with very few limitations and restrictions. However, those who are not citizens of Europe are restricted to working for 180 days during the school year. This is often done during summer breaks and on the weekends.

As long as you abide by these rules you should have no problems whatsoever. Be sure to have a CV on hand to apply for the jobs, and, of course, wait until you’ve arrived in the city to apply. Most employers will want you to come in for an in-person interview, and you can’t do this if you are thousands of miles away. It should not be very difficult to find employment so this should not be of too much concern to you.

If you are coming to Munich and already have a degree, finding a job is something that will be even easier to do. There are a lot of opportunities available for skilled individuals in the city in a wide range of fields. To apply for these you will need to have an up-to-date CV available.

Cost of living in Munich

Generally, Germany is not an expensive country and Munich  as the third largest city in Germany attracted a large number of students who would surely like to know the price variations if the city prior to arrival. You will find listed the prices of most important or required components. [Tip: Working students in Munich are also very well paid.] Besides, there are a lot of sights to see and things to do for free!

A nice meal in an inexpensive restaurant will cost you 10€, if too tired to stay in and cook for yourself, or you simply want to treat yourself.

A three-course meal for two in a mid-range restaurant will cost you around 50€, so spare this amount of money when in the mood for treating the special someone you keep thinking about.

A 0.5l local draught beer at a nice bar for a fun night-out with friends will cost you 3.5€. However, you will pay the same for a 0.33l imported bottled beer.

A morning coffee before class will be around 2.70€ in most places, if accompanied by a 0.33l bottled water then add another 2.15€ to that.

If you want to stay and cook in, your meals will cost you less than going out, although you might need to give it a little more time for preparation.

These are the price ranges for grocery shopping:

  • 1l Milk – 0.75€
  • Bread (500g) – 1.28€
  • Eggs (12) – 2€
  • Local Cheese (1kg) – 8€
  • Fruit and vegetables range from less than 1€ up to 3€
  • Bottled water 1.5l – 0.35€
  • Bottled local beer of 0.5l – 0.90€
  • A fine bottle of wine – 7€

If you are a smoker, your monthly expenses may increase as 1 pack of Marlboro costs 5.50€.

Monthly rent for a single bedroom apartment in the city center varies from 950-1000€, whereas for the same apartment you can find a better price outside the city center, around 750-800€

If you don’t mind sharing your living space with your mates, it might be a cheaper way of getting along where the total price for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city center comes across 1900-2000€. Meanwhile, for the  same 3-bedroom apartment outside the city center, you may pay 1460-1500€.

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) cost around 250€ monthly. If a requirement, you may pay 23€ for 10 Mbps of internet in a month.

The monthly pass for public transportation is 64€, while a one-way ticket costs 2.70€.

Membership and monthly payment at a fitness club costs around 37€.

When on free time, as a recreational activity you may go out to the cinema and watch an international movie for 10€ a ticket.

As far as clothing, you can find many chain stores like Zara, H&M which have somewhat cheaper, but nice clothes and the prices vary from 20-50€, whereas, for high-labelled clothes you may spend over 100€ a pair.

Housing and Accommodation

If you are going to live in Munich it is necessary that you have a place to live! Munich has a variety of housing options available, including housing available only for students, at reduced rates. It is a good idea to look at your options before making a selection.

Many students in Munich choose to utilize a roommate-housing environment. This reduces the rent amount greatly, and also helps you feel acquainted with someone when you’re in a city quite possibly far from home. Roommates share all of the bills equally and can build lasting friendships at the same time.

You can choose to rent an apartment or other housing unit on your own if you wish. Do keep in mind that sometimes it is hard to find housing on your own in Germany. If you do manage to find an apartment, the rental costs average €300 to €600 per month. Don’t forget to add in other necessary expenses to this figure as well, including utilities, telephone, food, etc.

On-site housing is available at many different Munich institutions, and for most students, this is always the best and most affordable option. Not only are you within close proximity of all of your classes, the rates for living are much cheaper, too. And, you can surround yourself with other students attending the university and make friends and help each other as you go along.

Long-term hotels are also an option for housing in Munich. If you find it difficult to obtain housing upon arrival in the city this may be an option for you to look into. Long-term hotels offer studio apartments, which make it feel like home. They’re much more accommodating than a regular hotel room, with kitchenettes and living/sleeping areas available. Now, keep in mind the costs of these hotels are usually a considerable amount more than a regular rent amount, although that rate includes utilities, Internet, phone, etc. The best things about these hotels are that they offer everything that you need in just one package. There is no worrying about paying separate bills. One payment covers it all and you are ready to move on.

Find and Book Cheap Hotels in Munich

Munich Hotels

It is a good idea to start looking at the available housing options before you leave your home country. As we have already mentioned, it can be difficult to obtain housing and you do not want to arrive with nowhere to live. You will also want to compare the various options that are available to you. With the Internet available this is something that you will find easy to do. It takes just a short amount of time and can provide you with so much invaluable information that will secure your housing while in Munich.

Do not take any chances when it comes to your place to live! Do not be afraid to make phone calls to find your housing as well. Keep in mind that when you get housing you can always switch to something else if it comes along for you later on.

Great places to explore and see

  1. Sculpture Gallery Glyptothek, housing ancient and modern sculpture
  2. Propylaen- the magnificent gateway
  3. The Pinakothek- one of Europe’s greatest fine arts museums where collections of paintings from the 14th and 17th century can be found, housing also art treasures from the Wittelsbach family since the 16th century, and painting collections of the Renaissance by German and Dutch famous artists, like: Albrecht Dürer, Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony Van Dyck
  4. New Pinakothek housing 19th and 20th century masterpieces
  5. The Bavarian National Museum with collections of German art and applied art since the Middle Ages
  6. The Deutsches Museum on the Isar River- a museum of science, engineering, technology with a notable library and many other small art galleries
  7. The State Library – Ludwigskirche – the Bavarian State Library
  8. The University Library
  9. The Rathaus Glockenspiel
  10. The Neuschwanstein
  11. Mary’s Bridge
  12. The three town gates: Karls, Sendlinger and Isar – dating back to the 14th century.

Things to do

  1. The Bavarian State Opera Company – opera is very much the center of music
  2. The Munich Philharmonic
  3. The Bavarian State Dramatic Company for its memorable performances
  4. Oktoberfest
  5. The Kultfabrik
  6. The Optimolwer
  7. The Munchener Freiheit in Schwabing
  8. The Neuschwanstein
  9. Try out the famous Bavarian Pretzel
  10. Schweinshaxe – that deliciousness that is served in a very interesting way
  11. Try the Sauerkraut
  12. Spaetzle – the Bavarian version of the ‘noodle’, but beware: do not say ‘noodle’.

Regarding nightlife, there are many lovely clubs and bars for you to have tons of fun in. A few of the many are: the Kultfabrik, and Optimolwerke. Whereas, the area around Munchener Freiheit in Schwabing is a spot to explore and enjoy different kinds of music, people and views during night-time.

The largest authentic beer gardens/breweries in Germany are located in Munich hence world-famous for hosting the Oktoberfest- the annual beer-jollification, gathering millions of visitors from around the world to celebrate for almost a month. During that time, you can also experience Europe’s largest market for fruit, vegetables, animal produce and all things Bavarian!

You can always visit other German cities and medieval villages as the public transportation is very precise and affordable. Take advantage of Munich’s easy rail travel and visit metropolitan cities in Austria, Switzerland, France and Italy.

Transportation in Munich

Being without your own personal vehicle can be quite a headache, but chances are good this is the situation you will find yourself in when you are coming to Munich from international territories. Luckily there isn’t a reason to worry, as there are so many different ways that you can get around in Munich.

The underground system is the most commonly used way to get around. It is so easy and it is very convenient; available whenever you need it and at a very low cost. It is available to take you throughout the city and close to all of the universities that are in the area. You should look into the underground system while you are in Munch.

Rental cars are a possibility, and one of the options available. Weekly and monthly rental rates are available, and you can find an assortment of styles, makes and models of vehicles. This can get expensive.

Bike hire is available in Munich. Biking to your university, the supermarket and other activities is an excellent way to see more of the city while you get to your destination. Biking is enjoyable and popular among those in the city. It is also quite affordable and certainly convenient. Walking is always an option that you have available to you, although you may want to save this until you’ve familiarized yourself with the city somewhat. Most things in Munich are situated quite close together, however, this isn’t always the case and getting lost is certainly something that you can do without.

Taxi cabs are also available to help you get around in the city, but as with the rental car option, taxis can be very expensive. In fact, they are much more expensive than the rental car option, but they are great for those late night outings and similar quick trips. Taxis charge a per-meter fee that is convenient for short distances.

Most students who come to Munich use a variety of the transportation methods to help them get around. This is probably something that you will also want to do as well. The situation that you are in is the best way to determine which transportation option is best suited for the moment.

Students in Munich commonly use public transportation. Public transportation options in the city include buses, trains and trams. They run frequently and throughout the city on a daily basis. The prices vary according to which transportation option you choose, however, you can be certain the rate is quite affordable.

Learn German language in Munich

You may not have come to the city expecting to do anything other than learn your selected courses, earn your degree and go back home; however, this is a city that offers you so very much more. One of those things is the chance to learn German. The German language is a delightful one, and there is nothing more enjoyable than being around those who speak it fluently. You can easily pick up on words as they are being said and will be able to go back home and impress those that you know with your new language.

If you are serious about learning German there are also a number of institutions in the area that offer the chance to take courses. The cost of these courses will vary but they are very reasonable. It is possible to attend one of these classes part-time and quickly learn the language of German.

Despite what so many people think, German is actually an easy language to learn, especially when you are living among those who speak it fluently and on a full-time basis. When you want to learn a language there is no better place to do it than where the language is spoken. The chance to learn German while you are studying is a reason in itself to study in Germany.

We’ve gone through all the German language schools you can find in Munich and listed the top ones you should consider joining.

Quality and cost of living

As anywhere when you study in Germany, you can expect a high standard of living. In fact, Munich has also often been ranked among the world’s top 10 cities for quality of life. But it comes at a price: The city is the most expensive in the country when it comes to rent and food. One of the few things you will find cheaper than up North is beer. That does not surprise, considering Bavarian’s love of a good brew, and the fact that the world-famous Reinheitsgebot (the German beer brewing purity regulation) was originally influenced by a local Munich law of the 1400s.

Getting there and around

Residents of Munich enjoy the benefit of a good and reliable public transport system. Many commuter train lines run from the city center via multiple stops into the suburbs, interwoven by a number of metro lines. There is also a dense network of bus and streetcar lines. In recent years, a student-friendly pricing model was introduced for students at the local universities.

Munich’s airport is a bit far from the city, but as an important air traffic hub, it offers direct connections to almost 200 airports around the world. Much farther away, roughly one and a half hours by bus, Memmingen Airport offers a number of low-cost carrier connections to destinations particularly in Southern and Eastern Europe.

12 Essential Steps to Start Studying Abroad in Munich

Did you ever consider studying abroad in Munich? Well, you should because it is a great place to live and study. Munich, the capital of Bavaria, famous for the Oktoberfest, is also home to some of the best universities in Germany and one of the main financial, technological and cultural hubs in the country. This means you will be surrounded by an international environment, have plenty of things to do in your spare time and benefit from several internships or job opportunities.

Here are some tips on how to make the most of your student life in Munich and experience the true “Münchner Gemütlichkeit” (that means Munich cosiness).

1. Choose a great university and apply for it

Prepare everything you need for your study abroad time in Munich

Once you have been accepted to a university in Munich, it is essential to start your preparations as soon as possible, ideally at least two or three months before your arrival.

Examples of top universities in Munich:

  • Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich 
  • Macromedia University of Applied Sciences 
  • Munich Business School 
  • Munich University of Applied Sciences 
  • Technical University of Munich 

2. Check the details of the student visa for Germany

As you have probably guessed already, if you’re coming from the EU or EEA, you won’t need to apply for a visa.

Only non-EU/EEA students will need a study visa for Germany. In this case, keep all the required documents ready and apply well in time. Depending on your nationality, the visa may take up to 4-6 weeks to be approved and granted.

Many foreign students are also required to open blocked accounts or ‘Sperrkonto’ in a bank in Germany before they can apply for a visa. Thus, carefully read through the visa requirements for your country and find out more details.

3. Arrange your accommodation in Munich

Student housing run by the Studentenwerk in Munich is usually the cheapest and most sought after option. However, it is generally very hard to get because the demand is much greater than the supply. Flat shares or WGs are a good alternative. It may take you a long time to find a suitable residence, so it’s better to start looking early.

Also, take into account that the minimum student living cost in Munich is estimated at 1000 EUR/month.

4. Apply for a scholarship

Many organisations such as the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offer different kinds of scholarships. Additionally, your chosen university may also provide a number of scholarships or funding options.

Don’t hesitate to apply to these opportunities well in advance. Find out more about tuition fees and scholarship providers in Germany.

5. Connect with other international students

Many universities in Munich have a ‘buddy system’ i.e. you are allocated a buddy who is usually a student currently studying at the university. You can ask your buddy various questions about the university, life in Munich, and so on. Your buddy will often become a good friend as well. So do ask your university to allocate you a buddy.

For any course related queries, it is best to contact your professors in advance. They are generally very helpful.

6. Attend the university’s orientation programmes

Most universities have at least two weeks of orientation for new students. These programs include providing administrative help such as getting your student ID, library pass, transport pass, registration in the KVR for foreigners, as well as campus tours and parties. Thus, not only are these programs useful but also a great way of meeting new people and making friends.

7. Enjoy a flexible learning style

The European university system is usually pretty flexible in terms of attendance or exam dates. For instance, you can choose your exam dates, enrol in courses in one semester but take the exams in the next semester and so on. While this gives students a lot of freedom, it also means a lot more responsibility. Hence, make sure you maintain a good balance between study time and social activities.

8. Apply to internships or part-time jobs in Munich

A number of career fairs are held every semester in the main universities of Munich. You can easily find out about internship opportunities, even if you don’t speak perfect German.

Lots of part-time work opportunities are also available in the university such as assisting professors, working at the library, campus bar and so on. This is a great way to earn some extra money.

9. Attend as many social activities and events

There is so much to see and do in Munich, such as visiting the famous Deutsche Museum or the München City Museum. Experience the lovely and unique Oktoberfest or check out the numerous castles.

There are also a lot of different university clubs to choose from such as dance, debating, music, computer clubs and so on. The Olympiapark in Munich offers a lot of sports facilities.

10. Learn at least a bit of German

Since most people in Munich speak English, it is not essential to know German. However, learning a bit of German is certainly beneficial and will be very helpful if you travel to small towns and villages outside Munich. The locals also appreciate foreigners who try to integrate and learn their language and will, therefore, be friendlier.

Most universities offer German language courses particularly for foreign students, free of charge.

11. Travel and Make Use of Student Discounts

Munich, as well as a lot of other places in Europe, offer generous student discounts on transport, entrance tickets to attractions and performances and accommodation. So carry your Student Card everywhere and take full advantage of this.

Munich is also ideally located for travel to Austria, Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland to name a few. Ryanair operates a number of cheap flights from Munich. Deutsche Bahn also offers good prices if you book a few weeks in advance. Deals such as the Bayern Bohemian ticket are also worth checking out. Mitfahrgelegenheit is a cheap way of travelling to relatively nearby places by road.

12. Have a great study time in Munich or in a different destination in Germany!

Do a thorough research before your travel to Munich and if you follow all the practical steps from above, you’ll surely have an enriching and fun study experience!

If you’re still not sure about studying in Munich here are some top subjects you might want to study in a different city in Germany.

14 Things to Know Before You Go to Munich

Ready to visit the heart of Bavaria? With lively beer gardens as well as a host of museums and everything between, there’s plenty to see and do in Munich. From how to tie your dirndl to why you need to respect the green man, here are the unwritten rules and tips to help you fit in and enjoy the city.

Guten tag is not enough

There’s a stereotype that all Germans speak great English. While that might be true in the more cosmopolitan cities like Berlin, you will need some German to get around Munich; about 70% of people will speak some English, the remaining 30% will stick to their mother tongue with a lot of eye-rolling if you can’t keep up. South Germany has its own dialect too; expect to hear people greeting each other with the Bavarian “Grüß gott” or more informal “Servus”.

The U-Bahn isn’t actually free

No ticket barriers might lull you into a false sense of security, but it turns out Germans are just honest! Those travelling with a monthly pass just have to carry it with them, but if, like most tourists, you’re using one of the stripe tickets, you have to stamp it in one of the little blue machines before heading down the escalators to the platform. Though ticket checks are infrequent, the lines leading out to the airport are the usual targets, so save yourself the €60 fine and grab one of the three-day tickets.

Cyclists are mean

In most cities, it’s the cars that terrorise the cyclists – here it’s the other way around! Munich cyclists take no prisoners and come flying down the cycle lanes with little tolerance or consideration for pedestrians; they have right of way even over cars after all. It’s not just a case of ending up with a few bruises, you might also end up being sued for any injuries the cyclist sustains or damage to their bike. A secretly litigious country, almost everyone that lives here have third party liability insurance as standard.

Lederhosen are normal

Did you think they only came out once a year for Oktoberfest? Lederhosen is the equivalent of putting on a nice shirt before you go to the pub on a Friday night. You’ll see them regularly around town, as well as for special occasions such as festivals –lederhosen have even been spotted in IKEA! They’re also standard dress for most Bavarian weddings, so you’ll see locals with beautifully embroidered dirndls and smart jackets.

Bow code

Ladies, if you’re embracing traditional dress, you’ll also need to get familiar with the bow code. To save unwanted suitors from investing time in someone that’s taken, the way a woman’s apron bow is tied shows their relationship status. On the left is a green light – single, while a bow tied on the right means she’s not on the market. Then things get interesting. You may raise a few eyebrows with a bow tied at the front in the middle – it announces to the world that you’re a virgin. Finally, a bow at the back means you’re a widow or a waitress. People in Germany grew up with this, but tourists should get into the habit of glancing down for a quick bow check before turning on the charm.

The green man is God

No traffic? Stay exactly where you are until you see that green man. That traffic symbol is treated with a quiet reverence –woe betide the tourist that thinks they can just nip across a quiet street without his permission! Step foot on the road and you can expect to be on the end of a rapid and angry lecture from the oldest German nearby, particularly if there are kids at the crossing. At the very least you’ll be on the end of the well-honed withering Munich stare.

Müncheners are weather optimists

As soon as the snow is gone, restaurants and bars will rush to get their tables and chairs back outside. Even in February, when the Alpine wind is anything but warm, you’ll see Germans stoically sat outside with a maß or eating a meal; even the sun peeps out even a bit, you’ll find yourself fighting to find a spot outdoors. The only concession to the weather is that blankets are almost always provided – you’ll see them thrown over the back of chairs waiting for the next optimist.

Try the mystery potato salad

Accompanying most schnitzel dishes and also available as a dish in its own right at most beer gardens is a yellow-ish dish of carbohydrate goodness. A classic German dish, it’s technically a potato salad but not as you know it; this version has a creamy texture but with a tang that’s difficult to put your finger on exactly what it is. Served with a sprinkling of chives, it’s the perfect way to balance out one too many beers – and utterly addictive.Schnitzel and potato salad © Connie Ma / Flickr

Carry cash

You might be used to most places taking card, but at a lot of restaurants, bars, and especially beer gardens will only take payments in cash. When you’re ready to pay, a waiter or waitress will come around with the ubiquitous black purse to settle the bill. They’re used to people splitting the bill so will usually assume you want to pay individually unless you say otherwise. The waitress will then cross your items that you’ve paid for off the bill and move onto the next person. Small tips are expected and appreciated, so when you hand over your cash, say how much you’d like back as change.

Avoid Hofbräuhaus on Friday and Saturday nights

On every “must-see in Munich list”, the Hofbräuhaus is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Munich. The famous beer hall dates back to the sixteenth century, and offers the quintessential traditional German experience complete with live brass band. You’ll be tempted to treat it as your local and go on a Friday or Saturday night… don’t. Oktoberfest rules apply and you have to be seated to be served which means charming your way onto the end of someone else’s table and a long wait to put your order in and actually get a beer. Go on Sunday instead – you’ll get all the atmosphere and none of the stress.

Choose your seat carefully

If you’re visiting one of the city’s many beer gardens, the seats you pick dictate the service you’ll get. Beer gardens are split into self-service and table service. Fairly self-explanatory, if you pick self-service you’ll need to head up to the food area to eye up the pork knuckle and pick your drink. This can be quite handy if you’re not a strong German speaker as you get to take a look at all the options on offer and point if all else fails!

Get bargain travel with a Bayern ticket

If you’re planning to see a bit more of Bavaria, the Bayern ticket is a great way to get around. The train ticket costs €25 for unlimited daily travel. It’s actually best if you’re travelling as a group because each additional person only costs €6; that means unlimited travel for five people for less than €10 each! It includes all regional trains as well as the U-Bahn and S-Bahn, and will even take you as far as Salzburg if you fancy a day trip to Austria.

What the pfand?

Wondering why the advertised drink price is one thing, but you’re being asked to pay another thing at the till? There’s a refundable deposit on all plastic and glass bottles as well as cans in Munich to encourage people to recycle. Once you’re finished, you can return the bottle at one of the automated machines found in most supermarkets for a coupon off your shop. It’s usually around 20–25 cents, and can only be used in the supermarket you returned the bottle to.

Sleepy Sundays

Munich is right in the heart of Catholic southern Germany, and is very religious. Sunday is kept as the traditional day of rest, and almost all supermarkets and shops are shut, and many restaurants are closed too. Make sure you get some food and snacks in on Saturday, then sit back and embrace sleepy Sundays like a true Münchener. Looking for something to keep you entertained? All state-run museums are just €1 on Sundays, so it’s a great day to get your culture fix.

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