Private car transfer
from Frankfurt to Munich

As you zig-zag under the skyscrapers of Frankfurt's sleek financial district, you'll quickly leave slow-moving traffic behind with no speed limits along the smooth autobahns. Due to the fast-paced highway, changing landscapes will come and go in a flash. One minute, picturesque woodlands stand before you, and the next, sprawling industrial zones.

The vistas become more surreal as you cross the Bavarian border. Medieval castles perched upon flowing hills emerge in the distance, and traditional wood and beam villages nestle themselves between thickening foliage. The further south you venture, the more you'll feel closer to nature.

That's until Munich's high-rise buildings begin to peak above the tree-lined roads. Before you know it, Marienplatz's neo-gothic dominating presence looming outside your car window brings your German tour to a close.

Luckily for you, your adventure is not over. It's about to begin. To uncover how to embark on this thrilling vacation, dive deeper into our in-depth Frankfurt to Munich guide below!

History of Munich

The area surrounding Munich is a Celtic settlement where the Boii tribe founded a fishing village in the 4th century BC. But like most of Europe, the Romans seized control of the land in the 2nd century BC.

Since the Romans didn't reside in modern-day Munich, the town's history didn't begin until 1158. As centuries passed, rulers of the land, such as the Wittelsbach family, the Holy Roman Empire, and the Bavarian Republic, created a melting pot of culture and even established the first Oktoberfest in 1810.

The 20th century was arguably the most turbulent in the town's history. Hilter selected Munich as the stronghold of the fascist Nazi party and, as a result, became a magnet for Allied air raids during World War II. Fortunately for Germany, the city was rebuilt and became the heart of Wirtschaftswunder, the term for the rapid development of its economy after the war.

Modern Munich

Although Munich is a relatively big city, it's surprising how it fits so many personality traits within its limits. Today, you can travel back in time, strolling through the old town's cobbled lanes and gothic buildings housing cultural museums and busy taverns. But if you walk far enough, you'll step back into the 21st century in youthful neighborhoods littered with edgy street art and quirky boutique stores.

The mix of old and new is vital to its unique character and cultural diversity. Ancient festivals and modern food markets litter the walkways year-round, which appeals to old-school residents and welcomes every newcomer to the city. Although the award-winning Christmas market and Munich carnival are bucket list experiences, the Oktoberfest, welcoming 6 million annual visitors, is the creme de la creme of Bavarian festivities.

• Language: German
• Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Time zone: GMT+1
• Climate: Continental
• Plug types: C and F
• Fun fact: Pubs poured over 6.5 million liters of beer at Oktoberfest in 2023!

Consider the scenic route

Taking the autobahn may be the fastest way to travel from Frankfurt to Munich, but the scenery isn't as prominent as the back roads. Consider taking an alternative route to view Germany's unspoiled heartlands. If traveling by public transport, the regional trains stopping at charming towns are slower but more thrilling than high-speed ones.

Immerse yourself in UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Another reason to drive off the beaten path is that you'll have the opportunity to explore the majestic UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the trail from Frankfurt to Munich. A stop at the Messel Fossil Pit will give you an insight into life on Earth 60 million years ago. If you prefer something more glamorous, admire the Wurzburg Residence, which resembles a French royal palace!

Do your homework

Despite residing in the same country, Munich and Frankfurt are contrasting cities with different cultures. Frankfurt has a much more punctual, cosmopolitan vibe, while the locals in Munich have a more laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. Traditional foods, nightlife, and tipping cultures also differ between the cities. So speak to a local Daytrip driver to uncover ways to blend in with the locals or bring a trustworthy travel guide for the ride.

Buses from Frankfurt to Munich

If you're hoping to travel as cheaply as possible from Frankfurt to Munich, the bus is ideal for you. With Flixbus offering affordable fares, it's the most popular with backpackers during the summer. You'll still find restrooms, wifi, and power outlets onboard.

All direct buses depart from Frankfurt Central Station and arrive at Munich Central Bus Station. If you prefer an indirect service to break up the journey in Nuremberg or Heidelberg, you can purchase a ticket online from Frankfurt Sud Station.

• Cheapest bus ticket price: $15 (€14)
• Average bus ticket price: $20.50 (€19)
• Fastest bus duration: 5 hours and 15 minutes
• Average bus duration: 6 hours and 25 minutes
• First bus departure: 12:40 AM
• Last bus departure: 11:59 PM

Trains from Frankfurt to Munich

The train from Frankfurt to Munich offers a balance between a budget-friendly and quick travel method. It's also the most scenic option, perfect if you wish to snap some well-earned likes for Instagram!

OBB and Deutsche Bahn operate on this line. The latter offers an extensive service with an average of over 60 daily services. You can buy a ticket online or at Frankfurt Central Station to Munich HBF before enjoying a relaxed direct voyage.

• Cheapest train ticket price: $19 (€18)
• Average train ticket price: $40.50 (€38)
• Fastest train duration: 3 hours and 13 minutes
• Average train duration: 3 hours and 49 minutes
• First train departure: 12:17 AM
• Last train departure: 10:29 PM

Flights from Frankfurt to Munich

On paper, a flight is the fastest means of transport from Frankfurt to Munich. However, it comes at a price, as it's also the most expensive way to travel between the two cities.

German airline Lufthansa flies 10 to 15 times daily between Frankfurt Main Airport and Munich International Airport. Although the flight can take under an hour, you must also include airport transfers and time for going through security checks.

• Overall travel duration: 3.5-4.5 hours
• Average flight duration: 55 minutes
• Cheapest flight price: $123 (€115)
• Average flight price: $171 (€160)
• First flight departure: 7:15 AM
• Last flight departure: 9:15 PM

Daytrip from Frankfurt to Munich

Look no further than Daytrip's private door-to-door service if you crave comfort, convenience, and flexibility. There's no need to set a dreadful 5 AM alarm to catch an early flight, organize a taxi to a train station, or worry about a stuffy carriage with compact seating. Our flexible schedule lets you decide where and when your driver will greet you with a clean and sanitized vehicle!

But Daytrip isn't your ordinary transfer service. We also want you to explore the cities and attractions most tourists speed by when traveling from Frankfurt to Munich. That's why our optional sightseeing packages allow you to educate yourself on Germany's dark past at the tragic Dachau Concentration Camp. Or, if you prefer something lighter, stop at the fairytale castle of Schloss Johannisburg or roam through the Disney-like street of Nunremberg!

• Seats from: $133 (€125)
• English-speaking driver
• Door-to-door Duration: 4 hours and 10 minutes
• Equipped for pets, kids, groups, or those with limited mobility
• 24/7 customer service
• Free cancellation 24 hours before departing

Immerse yourself in Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the heart of Munich, serving as the city's main square since 1158. The New Town Hall, a striking neo-Gothic building completed in the 1900s, dominates the square. Statues, turrets, and arches coat the exteriors, making it a breathtaking sight.

The Glockenspiel is one of the main attractions here. The 100-year-old clock chimes daily at 11 AM and noon, featuring life-sized figures reenacting historical Bavarian events.

Eat through Viktualienmarkt

If you want to blend in with the locals in Germany while sampling the best of its cuisine, Viktualienmarkt should be at the top of your travel itinerary! This culinary haven has been open six days a week (Monday to Saturday) since 1807, with stalls serving anything from gourmet dishes to on-the-go street food.

Even if you don't want to eat, Viktualienmarkt is worth visiting for its lively atmosphere. It's a favorite bonding spot for friends and family, young and old, especially on Saturdays!

Relax in the English Garden

Munich is no stranger to urban green spaces, but the English Garden is the pick of the bunch. It's not just because it's the largest in the city center. But due to the gorgeous walking trails and welcoming ambiance.

In the winter, the flowing waterways remain still as the freezing temperatures cover the water with a sheet of ice while a blanket of thick white snow covers the green meadows. In the summer, you can take shelter from the beating sunshine under the tree-lined fields and watch the locals participate in outdoor activities.

Visit Nymphenburg Palace

No matter how many times you admire a photo of Nymphenburg Palace, it cannot prepare you for the real thing. Its sprawling gardens cover over 88 square miles (142 square km), mesmerizing gardens, and a home worthy of royalty.

But the historical setting doesn't sacrifice quality for quantity. It's one of the most elegant forms of French baroque architecture outside of France. Four architects, including Joseph Effner, built the structure in 1675 as the summer residence of the Wittelsbach monarchs. Now, you can enjoy the Carriage Museum and get an insight into life here throughout the centuries.

Munich's average daily high temperature in the spring is 67°F (19°C). Therefore, you can enjoy walking tours on uncrowded lanes and eating at outdoor markets without wasting your vacation time queuing. Munich's Spring Fest also takes place at Theresienwiese, an ideal way to experience what the famous Oktoberfest feels like if you can't visit in October.

You'll also contribute to sustainable travel by avoiding the peak summer season. With fewer travelers in town, it'll put less pressure on local resources and won't clog up valuable places on public transport that locals need to get to and from work. By spending money in the shoulder or off seasons, you'll also provide a steady income for local businesses year-round!