Bavarian food is easier to understand on a plate than in a guidebook, and this small-group tour is built around that idea. A local guide takes a maximum of 12 people through the old town on a walk of around three and a half hours, with about seven stops of roughly 20 minutes each, including the area around Sebastiansplatz, Marienplatz, the Viktualienmarkt and Ledererstrasse. At each stop you taste something and hear where it comes from. The tastings on the tour description include a freshly baked pretzel, local cheeses and charcuterie, Weisswurst, the Bavarian pastry known as Schmalznudel, Leberkaese, local bread, Munich wheat beer and lager, artisanal honey wine, a traditional Bavarian dessert and a surprise dish saved for the end. Between the bites the guide covers the history of the city's markets and beer halls and points out landmarks such as St Peter's Church and Marienplatz, so that the tour doubles as an orientation walk. The small group size makes it feel more like a day out with a knowledgeable local than a conveyor belt, and reviewers regularly praise the guides and the food. It is a generous amount to eat, so arrive hungry and do not plan a large meal immediately afterwards. The tour finishes at Marienplatz, in the middle of the old town.
How to plan your visit
Check the confirmation you receive after booking for the exact start location and time. The tour finishes at Marienplatz, which makes it easy to continue to a museum, a church tower or the shops. Allow about three and a half hours, and eat only a light breakfast beforehand.
When to go
A late morning or lunchtime start works best, since the tour acts as a meal. The Viktualienmarkt is at its liveliest on weekday mornings, and the tour is run in all weather, so dress for rain or cold and be ready to eat standing up. During busy periods such as Oktoberfest, some reviewers found the pace fast in the crowded areas, so book early and expect more people on the streets.
Things to know
The tour is in English and is capped at 12 travellers. Tell the operator about dietary needs in advance, because the menu is built around pork, wheat, cheese and beer, and vegetarian options are limited. The tour description says it is not wheelchair accessible, though it is accessible to strollers.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. For a market-only version with a longer sit-down lunch, the Viktualienmarkt food tour listed here is the alternative, and for an evening of beer rather than food, the beer tours cover that.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walking tour of about seven tasting stops across the old town, with a maximum of 12 people.
Best time
Late morning or lunchtime, when the tastings replace a meal.
How long
About three and a half hours.
Tips
Arrive hungry. Tell the operator about dietary needs when you book. Check your confirmation for the meeting point.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Food lovers who want to taste the classics of Bavarian cuisine with a local guide.
- Families
- Suitable for older children who eat meat and cheese, though the beer samples are for adults.
- Couples
- A relaxed, sociable way to share a long lunch.
- Pair with
- The Viktualienmarkt for more browsing, or a walk to the English Garden to digest.
- Time needed
- Three and a half hours.
Good questions
How long is the Munich old town food tour?+
About three and a half hours, with around seven stops of roughly 20 minutes each.
What food is included?+
Pretzel, local cheeses and charcuterie, Weisswurst, Schmalznudel, Leberkaese, bread, wheat beer and lager, honey wine, a Bavarian dessert and a surprise dish.
How big are the groups?+
A maximum of 12 travellers.
Is it suitable for vegetarians?+
Options are limited. Tell the operator about dietary needs when you book.
Where does the tour end?+
At Marienplatz, in the centre of the old town.
