Munich: CityTourCard | Free Public Transport | 100+ Savings

Exploring Munich is a breeze with the CityTourCard, which offers unlimited public transportation and discounts at over 100 attractions. For around $22 per person, you can choose from options lasting 24 hours up to 6 days, making it a flexible and affordable way to see the Bavarian capital. Whether you’re interested in museums, historic sites, or local eats, this card unlocks all of that with convenience and savings.

One of the biggest perks is free public transport across Munich’s S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and streetcars, which means you won’t waste time or money figuring out how to get from one highlight to another. Plus, the discounts on popular sights like Nymphenburg Palace, the FC Bayern Museum, or even the Magic Bavaria Museum make it easy to stretch your travel budget. We love how seamless the system feels, especially since tickets are sent via email, and you can hop on trains or buses without fuss.

That said, it’s worth noting that some of the special transportation lines are not included in the card, and if you plan to visit beyond zone M (like to the surrounding countryside), you’ll need the M-6 option, which includes airport transfers. This card is ideal for independent travelers who want the freedom to explore at their own pace, especially those who appreciate not having to buy separate tickets every time they hop on a train or bus.

If you’re visiting Munich for a few days, enjoy museums, or want to explore the city’s famed beer halls and vibrant neighborhoods, this tour offers great value and flexibility. It’s especially suited for those who love to combine sightseeing with authentic local experiences — and who want to avoid the hassle of ticketing or navigating public transport.

Key Points

• Flexible Duration: Options from 24 hours to 6 days make it easy to match your trip length.
• Public Transport Access: Unlimited rides on S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and streetcars for the duration.
• Discounts: Save up to 50% on top sights, museums, tours, and even some restaurants.
• Group Friendly: Tickets are valid for groups of up to 5 people, making it cost-effective for families or friends.
• Airport Transfer: The M-6 option includes transfer from and to Munich Airport.
• Ease of Use: Tickets are emailed in advance, allowing you to hop on transport without validation or additional paperwork.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review

Easy and Transparent Access to Munich’s Public Transport

The CityTourCard simplifies your travel logistics. Instead of juggling multiple paper tickets or worrying about validation, you receive your digital ticket via email, usually a day before your trip. When you arrive, just walk onto any transport on the network—no need to stop, validate, or worry about losing your ticket. Several reviews highlight how easy and hassle-free the experience is, with travelers mentioning walking onto trains or buses without showing anything extra.

This convenience is especially appreciated during busy days or when you’re eager to maximize sightseeing time. As Les pointed out, “got by email the day before, just walk onto any transport without needing to validate or show tickets,” which adds a lot of peace of mind, especially if you’re arriving after a long flight or in a new city.

The Breadth of Transportation and Coverage

Munich’s public transport network is extensive and clean. The S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and streetcars form a well-coordinated system that takes you effortlessly across the city and surrounding neighborhoods. The zone M covers the city core, while zone M-6 extends to the suburbs and includes the airport, perfect for travelers planning to use Munich as a jumping-off point for day trips or visiting nearby castles.

Reviewers like Colin emphasize how “unlimited access to trains, trams, underground, and buses for five days left us free to explore at our leisure.” With that kind of freedom, you can spend your day wandering from Marienplatz to Nymphenburg Palace, then catch a train to the renowned beer gardens or museums, all without worrying about additional fares or time constraints.

Savings and Discounted Attractions

One of the most attractive features of the CityTourCard is the discounts at over 100 sights and experiences. While it doesn’t always include free entry to all locations, discounts up to 50% can significantly cut costs. Travelers like Lee-Ann appreciated how “we could use all the transport we wanted without having to worry about what tickets to buy,” but also note the added benefit of discounted museum entries, city tours, or dining.

Popular attractions like Nymphenburg Palace, the FC Bayern Museum, and the Magic Bavaria Museum offer reduced rates, which can add up quickly if you’re planning to visit multiple sites. Plus, the card grants discounts on sightseeing tours, including hop-on-hop-off options, which are perfect for travelers who prefer to explore independently but with guided insights.

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The M-6 Option and Airport Transfer

The M-6 ticket option is a game-changer if you’re arriving or departing from Munich Airport. It includes transfer from the airport, meaning you can start your city exploration immediately upon landing without buying separate tickets. This convenience is appreciated by travelers like Ronald Mark, who said, “easy to pick up in the main area of the Munich airport and jump on the S-Bahn from there.”

However, travelers should be aware that not all transportation lines are covered by the card, so if you plan to visit remote areas or venture beyond the zone M-6, additional tickets might be needed.

Who Will Love This Card?

This experience is ideal for independent travelers, couples, families, or small groups who want maximum flexibility. If you’re the type who likes to spontaneously change plans, explore museums, or hop on public transport to discover hidden corners of Munich, you’ll find this card invaluable. The group tickets for up to 5 people make it even better value for families or friends traveling together.

Plus, those who appreciate clear, straightforward logistics—like receiving tickets by email and hopping on without validation—will find this system notably smooth. Its affordability combined with savings on attractions makes it a practical choice for travelers watching their budget but eager to see Munich thoroughly.

Limitations and Considerations

One potential drawback is that special transport lines (such as some funiculars or tourist-specific routes) are not included, so check the specifics if you’re planning to visit more niche attractions. Also, while the discounts are generous, some venues may require additional payment if you want full access, rather than just a discount.

It’s also worth noting that once your tickets are emailed, cancellation isn’t possible. So if your plans change unexpectedly, you’ll need to follow the cancellation policy (up to 2 days in advance for a full refund).

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider the Munich CityTourCard?

For travelers wanting freedom and simplicity, this card offers unmatched convenience. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who plan to explore many sights, museums, and neighborhoods over a few days. The ease of use, combined with savings on transportation and attractions, makes it a smart choice for those who value efficiency and budget-consciousness.

Families and groups will appreciate the group tickets, and anyone arriving via Munich Airport should consider the airport transfer option for a smooth start and finish to their trip. If you’re planning a busy itinerary or just want the flexibility to wander without constantly buying tickets, this card is a solid companion.

However, if your plans are limited to just a few attractions or you prefer guided tours, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s designed for independent exploration and spontaneous adventures, making Munich feel accessible and welcoming, no matter how much time you have.

FAQ

Does the CityTourCard include free entry to attractions?
No, it offers discounts of up to 50% on many sights, but free entry is typically not included. Check the specific attraction for details.

Can I use the card for multiple people?
Yes, the card is valid for up to 5 adults, and two children aged 6-14 count as one adult, making it good for families or small groups.

How do I receive my tickets?
The tickets are sent via email, usually a day before your trip, so you should be prepared to access them digitally.

Is the public transportation free with the card?
Yes, unlimited rides on S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and streetcars are included within the chosen zone and duration.

Can I use the card for airport transfers?
If you select the M-6 option, yes, it includes transfer from and to Munich Airport.

What if I want to visit outside the zones covered?
You might need to purchase additional tickets for transportation beyond zone M-6.

In short, the Munich CityTourCard is a practical, cost-effective way to unlock the city’s highlights while avoiding the hassle of buying separate tickets. Whether you’re a museum lover, a wandering explorer, or traveling with family, it boosts your experience with value and convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here: