How to Get from Munich Airport to City Center: Fastest, Cheapest & Easiest Ways (Times, Tickets, Tips)

Arriving at Munich International Airport (MUC) for a stay in one of Europe’s coolest cities? There’s no shortage of cool in the Bavarian capital’s selection of museums, architectural and historic wonders, cafés, cool clubs, beer gardens, and much more. Whether you’re here for all that culture, the vibrant nightlife, the thrill of major sporting events at Allianz Arena Munich, the festive charm of Munich’s Christmas markets, the annual Oktoberfest celebrations, or a business meeting, the city’s cutting-edge creativity knows no bounds.

With so many reasons to head to Munich; the only thing left is figuring out how to get from Munich Airport to city center in a way that suits your preferences, budget, and travel style.

Here’s your guide to all the options for traveling from Munich Airport to city center, from private transfer to S-Bahn, Express Bus, or taxis. The distance from the airport to the center is about 40 km or 25 miles, taking just 35–45 minutes for rolling straight into the bustling city.

Private Transfer

Looking for the best way: Munich airport to city? Kiwitaxi private airport transfer is the most comfortable, reliable, and hassle-free option. It’s all about easing into Munich in style, with a smooth, door-to-door ride that lets you relax from the moment you land.

Kiwitaxi transforms your journey from Munich Airport to city center into a personalized and seamless experience tailored to your pace and needs. Head from Munich Airport to Marienplatz with as many stops as needed for coffee and pretzel or relaxing in one of the lush city parks. Marvel at the historic Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) or catch a glimpse of the Glockenspiel Figures on the façade of the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), sip a beer in a classic beer hall, and have your fill of schnitzel and sauerkraut or weisswurst at the bustling Viktualienmarkt.

Heading from Munich Airport to Munich HBF for easy connections to museums, galleries, and beyond? Stop by the oldest Weihenstephan Brewery serving famed Hefeweissbier and spectacular views, or, rest your feet at the baroque gardens of Schloss Schleissheim.

With real-time flight tracking, Kiwitaxi’s driver greets you the moment you step into the arrivals hall and assists with all luggage. Bulky ski bags? Extra suitcases?

Traveling with kids? No problem. Book in advance and request child seats, ensuring the kids enjoy a safe journey into Munich.

Choose from a premium fleet, from spacious vans perfect for families or groups to elegant vehicles with a touch of luxury. Settle in and take in the views as you glide past the Bavarian countryside while your driver handles traffic, navigation, luggage, and timing. Book in advance and pay what you see: no hidden fees, no surcharges.

Trip Duration: ~35–45 minutes (direct) Fare: From € 99, varies by vehicle class & group size Booking: Easy online reservation with instant confirmation Best for: Comfort seekers, families, small groups, and travelers who prefer a door-to-door, stress-free start to their Munich stay.

Planning your journey from Munich Airport to city center on a budget?

The S-Bahn is a fast, reliable, and efficient way for slipping into the city without dealing with traffic.

The S1: Munich Airport to city and the S8: Munich Airport to city lines run in opposite directions, giving you two convenient routes into Munich. The S8: Munich Airport to city passes through München Ost (East) and then proceeds through the main city tunnel (Stammstrecke) to the Hauptbahnhof. This is usually the fastest option for traveling from Munich Airport to Munich HBF. The S1: Munich Airport to city takes a slightly longer route into the city before meeting the Stammstrecke and heading toward the Hauptbahnhof. Munich Airport to Munich HBF S-Bahn trip typically takes around 38-45 minutes. The Munich Airport to Marienplatz S-Bahn journey takes around 40 minutes on either the S1 or S8.

Wondering about Munich Airport S-Bahn frequency? The S1 and S8 S-Bahn lines depart from the Munich Airport Terminal station, located in a tunnel beneath the central area connecting Terminals 1 and 2, with a train departing every 10 minutes. Simply follow the signs directing you toward the S-Bahn and hop on a train taking you into the city in no time and without surprises.

Here, your ticket options from Munich Airport to city center, depending on your budget and travel plans.

The single ticket Munich Airport to city for €14.30 is the standard choice and is valid for one direct journey into Munich without any further transfers included.

The Stripe ticket Munich, €17.80 (for 10 stripes), is a highly flexible option where you validate 7 stripes for the airport journey (costing €12.46 from the total), and save the remaining 3 stripes for later trips. While it’s less intuitive if you’re unfamiliar with the zone system, it works well if you plan multiple rides within the city. After arriving in Munich, the leftover stripes can be used for travel in Zone M, where a standard adult journey (21 years or older) requires validating 2 stripes, and travel for a child (6–14 years) requires only 1 stripe, making the Stripe ticket Munich a cost-efficient option for short city trips.

The Airport city day ticket Munich for €16.30, is one of the most popular choices, offering the best value for most tourists by including the required travel zones (M-5). It grants unlimited travel on all public transport in the city until 6 AM the following day. (The Group Ticket is €30.50 for up to 5 adults).

The MVV day ticket: Zones M 5 is actually the exact same as the Airport city day ticket Munich—same €16.30 price, same airport coverage, same unlimited travel across central Munich. The only difference? Branding. MVV simply gave it a more tourist-friendly name so you can spot it easily at ticket machines and counters. If you’re planning to explore the city after landing, this ticket does the job perfectly.

The Muenchen Card City Pass Airport, starting at €28.90 (1-Day overall), offers airport transfer, unlimited public transport, and discounted or free entry to dozens of attractions. With sweet discounts at top attractions, it’s perfect if you’re visiting museums and attractions. Grab your tickets at the airport from MVV machines and ticket counters, or tap your way through the DB Navigator app. Note: While the S-Bahn is fast and economical, it’s not convenient for those traveling with luggage, kids, or arriving late at night.

Trip Duration: ~38–45 minutes Fare: ~€13.70 (single adult ticket — Airport–City-Day-Ticket available) Booking: Buy at station kiosks, Airport ticket machines, DB Navigator app, or via MVV/MVV apps Best for: Budget travelers, solo passengers, and anyone traveling light and comfortable navigating trains

The Lufthansa Express Bus is a convenient and cost-effective option, running directly from Munich Airport to Munich HBF, regardless of the airline you’re flying with.

Designed for comfort and ease, the Lufthansa Express Bus: Munich Airport to city offers roomy seating, climate control, free Wi-Fi, plenty of luggage space (two pieces of checked baggage and one carry-on included free of charge), and a smooth ride into the city. It’s an easy choice if you prefer a direct and budget-friendly journey without navigating busy train platforms or making transfers. The fleet also uses HVO100 alternative fuel, a nice plus if you’re an eco-conscious traveler opting for a more sustainable transfer option.

Simply hop on the Airport Bus: Munich Airport to central station, just outside Terminal 2, Terminal 1D, or the Munich Airport Center (MAC), and you’ll get to Munich Nord / Schwabing or Munich Hauptbahnhof in 25- 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Schedule for Munich Airport Bus: Every 20 minutes Operating Hours: 6:25 AM - 10:25 PM Munich Airport to city time - Munich Nord / Schwabing ~ 25 minutes; Munich Hauptbahnhof ~ 45 minutes

Munich Airport to city cost & tickets: • One-way ticket: €12.00 online, €13.00 from the driver • Round-trip ticket: €26.00, valid for 24 months • Family ticket: €28.00 online, covering two adults and up to three children (ages 6–14) • Deutschlandticket: Accepted on this route

Note: The Lufthansa Express Bus: Munich Airport to city is a commercial service, so standard MVV tickets like Stripe ticket Munich, Day Tickets, or the Airport city day ticket Munich are not valid here. The exception is the Deutschlandticket, which is fully accepted.

Trip Duration: ~45 minutes (Munich HBF) Fare: ~€12 online / €13 from the driver Booking: Purchase online or directly at the bus stop outside Terminals 1 and 2 Best for: Travelers who prefer above-ground routes, want free Wi-Fi and amenities, or need a relaxed, direct ride into Munich’s central stations

Taking a taxi or booking a rideshare is an easy and comfortable way to travel from Munich Airport to city center.

Simply walk out to the taxi ranks at Terminals 1 & 2, or the Munich Airport Center (MAC), and hop into an official cab for a direct door-to-door ride, without prebooking.

A standard taxi usually falls between €70 and 95, depending on traffic, your final destination, and the time of travel. If you want to avoid unexpected increases due to heavy traffic, be sure to book a fixed fare taxi: Munich Airport option for a fixed fare of €106 and lock in your fare in advance.

Check for rideshares operating smoothly from Munich Airport to city center for a slightly more competitive price than a traditional taxi. Uber: Munich Airport to city offers upfront pricing, convenient pickup zones, cashless payment, and real-time driver tracking. Choose between standard UberX (the most affordable), UberXL (for groups/more luggage), and Uber Black (premium luxury service).

Tip: Always check the price in the Uber app against the estimate for a traditional taxi. If demand is very high (surge pricing), the Uber price can sometimes exceed the taxi fare.

Pro-tip: A private transfer offers a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience making it ideal for discerning travelers, families, or anyone arriving late or after a long flight. With extras such as meet-and-greet service, free waiting time, fixed prices, and customized service, it delivers a much more seamless experience than a standard taxi.

Trip Duration: ~35–45 minutes, depending on traffic Fare: €70–95 for official taxis; €106 for fixed fare taxi: Munich Airport; and €60-85 for UberX

Booking: Walk-up at the taxi rank, prebooking for fixed fare taxis, or via app for rideshares Best for: Travelers arriving late at night, those with heavy luggage, and anyone wanting a flexible door-to-door option without navigating public transport routes or prebooking

What’s the fastest way: Munich Airport to city center?

While a private airport transport is the most hassle-free and comfortable option, the S-Bahn is the fastest and most reliable Munich Airport to city center transport in rush hour, offering a consistent 40-minute journey unaffected by traffic.

What’s the cheapest way: Munich Airport to city center?

The cheapest way is the Lufthansa Express Bus at €12.00 for a single ticket, but if you need any further travel within the city on the day of arrival, the S-Bahn Airport-City-Day-Ticket is cheaper at €16.30 because it includes unlimited city travel until 6 AM the following day.

Munich Airport to city: time?

Munich Airport to Marienplatz or Munich Airport to Munich HBF takes typically 35–45 minutes by S-Bahn and around 30–40 minutes by private transfer, depending on traffic.

Munich Airport to city: cost?

The travel cost from Munich Airport to city center ranges from €12.00 for the Lufthansa Express Bus, around €13.60 for the S-Bahn, and to €106 for a fixed price taxi, with private transfers starting from € 99, depending on vehicle class & group size.

With luggage: Munich Airport to city?

A private transfer, such as Kiwitaxi private airport transfer, is the best option when traveling with luggage, offering unlimited suitcase capacity: no need to lift bags into overhead racks, no surcharges, and zero hassle navigating platforms or escalators after a long flight. Your driver meets you inside the terminal, handles all bags, and guides you straight to a spacious vehicle selected in advance to fit your luggage—from multiple large suitcases, sports equipment, to baby gear.

Late night transport Munich Airport?

Late-night options include the S-Bahn until around 1 a.m., night buses, and taxis. A private transfer, such as Kiwitaxi private airport transfer is the most reliable choice available 24/7.

Which line from Munich Airport S1 or S8?

Both lines run from Munich Airport to city center, but S8 is usually a few minutes faster.

How to buy tickets at Munich Airport?

At the airport, you can buy all tickets easily at the blue-and-white MVV ticket machines located near the S-Bahn station entrance. You can also book your tickets through the Deutsche Bahn or MVV mobile apps.

What is Deutschlandticket Munich Airport S-Bahn valid for?

The Deutschlandticket (or D-Ticket) is a €49 monthly pass valid on all local and regional public transport throughout Germany. This includes the MVV network (S-Bahn) and the Lufthansa Express Bus: Munich Airport to city.

Taxi: Munich Airport to city price?

The metered fare usually ranges from €70 - 90 for a standard sedan from Munich Airport to city center (like Munich Airport to Munich HBF or Munich Airport to Marienplatz). But the final cost is influenced by traffic congestion (waiting time adds to the fare) and the time of travel.

What is a fixed fare taxi Munich Airport?

The city has increasingly adopted fixed fare taxi options of €106 for traveling between Munich Airport to Munich HBF, when booked in advance.

Is the Munich Airport Bus every 20 minutes?

Yes, the Lufthansa Express Bus (the main bus service from Munich Airport to Munich HBF) runs every 20 minutes, seven days a week, during its operating hours.

Should I drive from Munich Airport to city?

While driving from Munich Airport to city center is a straightforward route along the A92 and A9 motorways, taking about 30–45 minutes depending on traffic, it’s not always recommended. Traffic on the A9 can be heavy, parking in central Munich is limited and expensive, and navigating environmental zones can be confusing for visitors. While Munich Airport parking is well-organized for rental car pickup and return, using a car in the city can be more hassle than help.