Discover Highlights in Southern Germany: Munich & Heidelberg

Thinking about a city trip to southern Germany? Our top picks: Munich and Heidelberg! Both cities are among Germany's most beautiful - each with its own unique charm. Munich captivates with grand boulevards, Bavarian coziness, and international flair, while Heidelberg enchants with old town romance and castle scenery. Whether it's culture, relaxing hours by the river, or culinary discoveries, there's something for everyone here. And the best part: In both cities, you can stay centrally, comfortably, and affordably at the MEININGER Hotels.

If you want to explore Munich or Heidelberg, MEININGER Hotels are the ideal accommodation. Centrally located, well-connected, and attractively priced - this is how the hotels of the chain present themselves, currently operating 36 locations across Europe, 15 of which are in Germany. Characteristic of MEININGER: Each hotel is uniquely designed and reflects the spirit and peculiarities of the respective city, fitting their motto 'Step out and explore.' Guests can choose between classic double rooms, spacious family rooms, or beds in shared dormitories - perfect for solo travelers, families, small groups, and backpackers.

Flexibility is key: A 24-hour front desk allows for early check-in or late check-out. Breakfast buffets ensure a good start to the day, and packed lunches extend the offering. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available everywhere. The hybrid concept of MEININGER Hotels combines the service and comfort of an international budget hotel with the unique facilities of a hostel. This includes a fully equipped communal kitchen for self-catering, a washer and dryer, an in-house bar, and a game zone with board and card games and a children's play area.

For families, there are additional benefits: When booking directly, children up to 12 years old receive a 15% discount on the room rate. Children up to six years old have free breakfast, and those aged 7-12 pay half price. Family rooms accommodate three to six people, and free baby cribs are available upon request.

Munich is famous for Oktoberfest - but the Bavarian metropolis has much more to offer. A good starting point for your exploration tour is Marienplatz with the Neo-Gothic New Town Hall. It is famous for its carillon with dancing figures, which can be seen daily at 11 AM and 12 PM. For a great panoramic view over the city, it is worth climbing the town hall tower. Another landmark is the Frauenkirche with its distinctive onion domes. Here, too, you can climb the south tower and enjoy a 360-degree view over the city.

If you need a break from the city hustle and bustle, you'll find relaxation in the English Garden - one of the largest urban parks in the world, even larger than New York's Central Park. Art lovers shouldn't miss the Kunstareal in the Maxvorstadt district: it offers 18 museums and over 20 galleries, including the Alte and Neue Pinakothek, the Museum Brandhorst, and the NS Documentation Center. Another highlight is the Museum Island on the Isar river with the Deutsches Museum, one of the largest museums of technology and science in the world.

For gourmet lovers, the Viktualienmarkt is a must-see: from Obatzda with pretzels to Weißwurst (white sausages) to Kaiserschmarrn, you can sample Bavarian culinary delights here. Ending a perfect day with a visit to the Olympic Park is worth it. The site, once celebrated as an architectural masterpiece of the 1970s, is now a popular leisure paradise. There are walking paths, a boat rental, and the Sea Life Aquarium. The Olympiaberg is the best place to enjoy the sunset over Munich, including views of the Alps.

In Munich, you have two MEININGER Hotels to choose from. Central and vibrant, MEININGER Hotel Munich Center is just a few minutes' walk or an S-Bahn station away from Munich's main train station. The Oktoberfest grounds are also within walking distance, making the hotel an ideal choice for visitors during the Wiesn. The hotel combines functional design elements with Bavarian alpine flair and modern urban style.

A bit quieter, but just as well connected, you can stay at MEININGER Hotel Munich Olympiapark. Only 500 meters from the Olympiapark, it exudes good mood and charm with its lively colors. Munich's main train station is about 15 minutes away by public transport. For guests arriving by car, paid parking is available.

Heidelberg in Baden-Württemberg is one of Germany's picture-perfect cities: red roofs, baroque facades, and plenty of greenery along the Neckar. Above the romantic old town towers the symbol of the city: Heidelberg Castle. The impressive ruin from the 16th century is often called the 'most famous ruin in the world' and is considered the epitome of German romanticism. It's best to plan enough time for your visit. You can discover the world's largest wine barrel, the piece garden, and the German Pharmacy Museum there. The view from the castle of the city and river is unforgettable.

The old town also invites you to stroll. Did you know that Heidelberg has the longest pedestrian street in Germany? On 1.8 kilometers, historic houses, Baroque buildings, squares, and street cafes line up. A visit to the Holy Spirit Church from the 14th century on the market square is worthwhile - the 82-meter high building offers a splendid view over the city from its viewing platform. Another highlight is the Old Bridge, one of the most beautiful stone bridges in Germany. Photo tip: a selfie at the bridge monkey sculpture against the stunning backdrop. Heidelberg is also Germany's oldest university city. Particularly noteworthy is the impressive Baroque building of the university and the historic student jail, where students were 'locked up' for nightly pranks.

Nature lovers will also find something in Heidelberg: The Philosopher's Walk on the opposite side of the Neckar leads through Mediterranean-looking vegetation and offers fantastic views of the old town and castle. Nearby is one of Germany's oldest botanical gardens with around 14,000 plant species.

In Heidelberg, you also stay centrally and well connected with MEININGER. MEININGER Hotel Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof is about a ten-minute walk from the train station. The old town with the castle, old bridge, and Philosopher's Lane can be easily reached by tram or through a relaxed walk. The hotel's design playfully reflects the academic flair of the traditional university city - with smart details, practical room solutions, and a fresh, modern look.