Munich is a flat city with a superb network of bike lanes, and a guided ride is a very efficient way to see it. This tour is run for your own group only, so it moves at your pace and the guide can adapt the commentary to your interests. The route, which starts and ends at Karlsplatz, runs through Koenigsplatz and the museum quarter, passes the English Garden and the Eisbachwelle, where surfers ride a standing wave in the middle of the city, goes by the Pinakotheken and Odeonsplatz, then continues to the Maximilianeum, the Chinese Tower, Marienplatz and the Viktualienmarkt. Further stops include the Ohel Jakob Synagogue, St Peter's Church and the Deutsches Museum, and the guide talks about Munich's royal history as well as the Second World War sites along the way. A beer garden lunch is part of the programme, with food and drink at your own expense. At around four hours it is a half-day outing, with rest breaks, and reviewers repeatedly note that the riding is easy because the city is so flat. Helmets are optional, and children's bikes and equipment can be arranged if you tell the operator after booking. With an average rating of 4.9 from over 300 reviews, it is one of the best-regarded ways to cover the city's sights in one go.
How to plan your visit
The meeting point is Karlsplatz 4, in the courtyard between the pharmacy and the car rental office, where the guides wait in the back right corner. The tour returns to the same point at the end. Book for your own group, and tell the operator the ages of any children so that suitable bikes can be arranged. The itinerary is easy-paced, but you should be comfortable riding in a city with other cyclists and with trams.
When to go
The tour is best from late spring to early autumn, when the beer garden stop is at its most pleasant and the English Garden is green. A morning start gives you a lunch stop at a good time. In rain or cold the ride is less enjoyable, so check the forecast, and the operator's free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start lets you adjust. Take sunscreen in summer and a light jacket for the shaded paths.
Things to know
The tour is in English and is run for private groups, so there is no fixed maximum, only your own party. Ask when you confirm if you need a particular frame size or type of bike. Bring a little cash or a card for lunch and drinks. If you prefer a standard group departure with a fixed morning start, the classic bike tour listed here is the alternative, and if you would rather ride on a different kind of vehicle, the Segway tour covers the northern parks.
What to expect
The experience
A guided bike ride for your own group, with rest breaks and a beer garden lunch stop, covering the main sights from Koenigsplatz to the Deutsches Museum.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn, in dry weather.
How long
About four hours.
Tips
Meet at Karlsplatz 4. Ask for children's bikes after booking. Bring money for lunch.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want to see a lot of the city in half a day without tiring their legs.
- Families
- Good for families with children who can ride in city traffic. Children's bikes are available on request.
- Couples
- A sociable, private way to see the city with a beer garden stop.
- Pair with
- A stroll through the Viktualienmarkt or an afternoon in the English Garden.
- Time needed
- About four hours.
Good questions
How long is the Munich guided bike tour?+
About four hours, including a lunch break at a beer garden.
Where does the bike tour start?+
At Karlsplatz 4, in the courtyard between the pharmacy and the car rental office. It ends at the same place.
Is it a private tour?+
Yes. Only your group takes part.
Are helmets and children's bikes available?+
Helmets are optional, and children's bikes and equipment can be arranged if you tell the operator after booking.
Is lunch included?+
The beer garden stop is part of the programme, but food and drinks are at your own expense.
