Are you thinking of moving to the city of Munich? Situated on the banks of the Isar river, this green city is sure to surprise you with its high quality of life. In order to make the most of your time in this great city, there are a number of practical issues to consider, not least public transport in Munich. Here we take you through the various aspects of the city’s transport network.
The public transport network in Munich includes suburban trains, underground lines, trams and buses. The underground system is the most convenient of all public transport in the city. Buses often get stuck in traffic jams, while suburban trains and trams can be delayed by bad weather, especially in the winter months. Nevertheless, there is a well-developed public transport network within the city limits, while residents in the rural hinterland tend to rely heavily on their own means of transport.
Munich Tram and Metro Map
Map of Munich Tram and Metro showing different lines. Click on the map to enlarge it or download the Munich Tram map in PDF format.
Tram and bus networks in Munich
While most of Munich’s main tourist attractions are located in and around the city centre, close to the main railway station, getting to these places on foot during the winter months can be treacherous due to slippery surfaces. You may also feel too tired to continue exploring the city. In such circumstances, it is best to use the city’s bus and tram networks.
While the S-Bahn and U-Bahn systems cover almost the whole of Munich, you cannot ignore the other forms of public transport. If you are too tired to walk around, the best option is to hop on a tram, which will take you slowly around Munich and is a great way for tourists to see the city. Although there are single tickets available for travelling on these transport systems, it is best to opt for either day tickets or season tickets, which are much cheaper in terms of cost. Also, if you are travelling with someone else, opt for a partner ticket, which is valid for up to five people.
Taxi cab service in Munich
If you call a taxi according to the tariff list, you have to pay an extra charge of one Euro for booking a taxi by phone. This tariff applies to the entire city of Munich and some of the surrounding municipalities such as Ottobrunn, Neubiberg, Haar, Karlsfeld and Pullach. However, if the pick-up point is outside one of these rate zones, the standard rate will apply. The amount you pay for a taxi journey is the result of pre-determined rates, the final calculation of which is often quite complicated. A journey from one point to another is unlikely to result in the same fare being charged twice, as the issue of waiting time is taken into account. Regardless of the number of passengers, there is a standard base fare with a minimum supplement and additional surcharges.
Munich S-Bahn system
The S-Bahn or suburban railway network in Munich mainly serves places such as Starnberg and Dachau, which are outside the boundaries of the city. Of the ten lines, there are a few that run specifically to Munich Airport. The S-Bahn network operates on more than four hundred kilometres of track and, with an average speed of nearly forty miles per hour, is the fastest S-Bahn network in the whole of Germany. A first-class service is guaranteed when travelling on this system. Expansion projects are underway, with the main line running through the heart of the city undergoing major technological upgrades.
Munich U-Bahn train service
As one of the most modern cities in Germany and indeed the world, Munich is a major hub for both tourism and business. As a result, there is a lot of pressure on the city’s transport infrastructure. However, with the development of the Munich U-Bahn or underground, the city has added a whole new system to its transport network. The U-Bahn or underground is staffed by well-trained service personnel and provides comprehensive information about services throughout the city. The vehicles, modern and environmentally friendly, have facilities for the disabled. With almost six hundred carriages in operation, the U-Bahn network is the largest means of public transport in Munich.
Getting around in Munich
Another excellent way to get around the city is by bike. Munich has such an excellent network of bike services that it can even put Amsterdam to shame. Bikes can be hired near Munich’s central railway station. The bikes are comfortable and of high quality, and are fitted with locks to prevent unwanted theft. If you are a person who loves to get around by bike, you will be pleased to know that at present almost ninety percent of the tourist attractions in the city of Munich can be covered by pedalling around on these comfortable two-wheeled companions.