Munich Airport

Welcome

Munich Airport (MUC) operates less like a typical travel hub and more like a bustling mini-city. Nestled 28.5 km northeast of Munich's center, it offers a surprising blend of attractions, including its own brewery and beer garden, an outdoor plaza with holiday markets, and a seamless connection to the city's robust train network. Frequent travelers rate it among Europe's most civilized airports due to efficient transfers and fast rail links into town.

At a glance

The airport handles over 31.6 million passengers per year through its two terminals. As a pivotal hub for Lufthansa, Lufthansa CityLine, and Air Dolomiti, Munich Airport covers major routes and provides extensive international and domestic connectivity. With two runways and a range of on-site amenities, it competes with top-tier European airports for convenience and comfort.

Terminals & layout

Terminal 1 is the operational ground for airlines like Ryanair, Eurowings, and TUI fly Deutschland. This terminal tends to feel a bit fragmented and dated, making navigation less intuitive. Meanwhile, Terminal 2 is dedicated to Lufthansa and its affiliates. It is praised for its network of lounges and efficient passenger flow, making it the preferred gateway for Star Alliance customers.

Getting to and from the city

Munich Airport's connectivity extends beyond air travel; it's also a rail hub. The S-Bahn lines S1 and S8 whisk travelers into central Munich quickly, although the fare isn’t cheap by any measure. Opting for the Airport-City-Day-Ticket can offer cost savings if your plans include exploring Munich beyond the immediate airport vicinity. For an alternative, the Lufthansa Express Bus offers a direct route to the main city locales.

Traveller essentials

Connectivity to Munich from the airport is seamless, but be mindful of possible disruptions. Stay alert to any construction or strike-related rail issues that may necessitate slower replacement buses. Inside the airport, non-Schengen passport control and security in Terminal 1 can become a bottleneck, so plan for extra time if you're catching an international flight.

Dining & shopping highlights

Dining at Munich Airport reflects Bavarian culture. Airbräu, the airport’s own brewery and beer garden, presents the rare opportunity to enjoy a house-brewed beer without leaving the airport. Beyond this, Terminal 2 hosts favorites like Dallmayr Bistro for a more refined meal, while Terminal 1 provides convenient choices, including McDonald's and Burger King.

Shopping aficionados will appreciate both terminals’ varied retail offerings. From Acqua di Parma’s high-end perfumes in Terminal 1 to Heinemann Duty Free shops in both terminals, there’s plenty to explore.

Lounges

Munich Airport boasts 17 lounges, meeting diverse needs with quality ranging between reliable comfort zones and luxurious retreats. Highlights include Terminal 1's Airport Lounge World and several of Lufthansa's Senator and Business lounges in Terminal 2. Use of the lounges can confer access to showers, daybeds, and decently curated food sections, perfect for unwinding during long waits.

Insider tips

• Insider: For non-Schengen travelers relying on lounge access, head to Airport Lounge World in Terminal 1; it's a standout with its extensive facilities compared to other contract options.
• Time: Build 10–15 extra minutes into your first visit to Airport Lounge Europe in Terminal 1, as finding it is less intuitive compared to Terminal 2's lounges.
• Local: Munich Airport Center offers Bavarian dining and events—a more unique layover experience than staying airside.
• Money: The Airport-City-Day-Ticket is a wallet-friendly option for exploring Munich with unlimited urban travel beyond the airport.
• Avoid: During peak morning hours, security lines in Terminal 2 can surge; give yourself extra time if you’re checking in bags.
• Quiet: Airport Lounge World provides daybeds and a kids’ area, perfect for families seeking a peaceful airport refuge.
• Local: Indulge in a craft beer at Airbräu, positioned at the nexus of Terminals 1 and 2—it’s uniquely Bavarian.