A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Beijing vs. Munich for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Backpackers

Should you visit Beijing or Munich?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Beijing and Munich can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Beijing

Beijing is a fascinating, historic, and massive city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Beijing offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Beijing travel costs.

Munich

Munich is a bustling, high energy, and multicultural city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. Other popular activities here include nightlife, live music, and food. See Munich travel costs.

Beijing and Munich: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Beijing or Munich?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Beijing than Munich. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Beijing is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, and impressive beauty, while Munich attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and shopping. Beijing is more touristy than Munich and is known for its rich culture, many historical landmarks, its long running history, and its world class cuisine. It is also well known for The Forbidden City. Munich is famous for its beer halls (particularly during Oktoberfest), its historic buildings and its castles.

How is Beijing different from Munich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Munich and Beijing. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Beijing or Munich?

Beijing is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Beijing on the map. The city is filled with iconic landmarks including the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and The Temple of Heaven. It's also essential that you plan a trip outside of town to the world renowned Great Wall of China. The trip takes about an hour and you can organize a tour through almost any hotel or tour company.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Munich. Famous sights include the Old Town Hall in Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Munich Residenz.

Is the Food Better in Beijing or Munich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Beijing is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Munich is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Beijing is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city has a number of iconic dishes that have put it on the culinary map. The most notable dish is Peking Duck, which is a delectable crispy roast duck that is usually served with cucumber, scallions, sweet bean sauce and pancakes or other steamed buns. Hot pots are another must-try experience in the city, and, of course, you have to experience the dumplings. A huge part of a visit to Beijing is experiencing its long running culinary history.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Munich. Bavaria has some of the best food in Germany. Popular dishes include schnitzel, weisswurst and spätzel.

Is Beijing or Munich Better for Nightlife?

Munich is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Munich is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The city has a young and vibrant population that keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are many bars and clubs around town, but the city is also famous for Oktoberfest during the months of September and October.

The nightlife in Beijing has something for everybody. Live performances are popular in the city, and range from concerts to magic shows and acrobatics. There is also an active bar scene around town. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Sanlitun and Houhai.

Is Beijing or Munich Better for Music?

Munich is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Beijing is not a live music destination.

In Munich you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is known for its music festivals, large concerts, and small venues that are diverse enough that there is something for everyone.

Beijing is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Beijing or Munich?

Munich is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Munich is a world class destination for shoppers. There are many pedestrian areas and shopping centers where you can find everything from luxury items to bargain finds.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Beijing. There are many unique handicrafts that you can purchase around town. Popular souvenirs include silk, pearls, and snuff bottles with pictures inside. The city has many shopping streets as well as markets and shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Is Beijing or Munich More Beautiful?

Beijing is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Munich is not a destination known for its beauty.

Beijing offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The parks, gardens, palaces, and temples all offer a glimpse into the past, while also letting you enjoy the city and culture that exists today.

Munich is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Beijing or Munich Better for Families?

Munich is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Munich is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Popular kid activities include going to the top of Stadium Roof at Olympic Park, checking out the movie sets at Filmstadt, and taking a paddle boat ride in the city park.

Beijing offers lots of family activities. The city offers a unique cultural immersion that kids and adults can enjoy. Wander through the Forbidden City or watch your kids be mesmerized by a Chinese acrobatics show. It's also fun to get lost in the Hutongs or test their culinary palates by visiting a snack street.

Is Beijing or Munich Better for Couples?

Munich is a great destination for couples. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Munich frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples enjoy exploring the palaces around the city, visiting the Roman baths at Müller's Volksbad, and checking out the many great restaurants around town.

Beijing is a nice destination for couples. The culture, history, and food all make this a stunning place to visit. While romance doesn't immediately spring to mind when you think of Beijing, there are shows and fine dining restaurants that couples will enjoy. There are also many luxury hotels with spas and other amenities.

Is Beijing or Munich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Munich is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Munich is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. The city has many fun hostels that often host events and activities for guests. It's easy to meet other backpackers and take advantage of the nightlife around town.

Beijing is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The city has many hostels and budget-friendly options. There isn't the backpacker community vibe that you may get in other Asian cities, but if you organize an excursion through your hostel, you're sure to make a few friends along the way.

Is Beijing or Munich Better for Students?

Munich is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Munich is a very popular city for students. The city is an economic hub for both Germany and Europe, so it attracts employees from around the world. There are many wonderful university programs, including a great business school in town. The city's multicultural setting makes it great for international students.

Many students visit Beijing. Students will enjoy the culture, food, and academic opportunities that the universities offer. There is also a decent nightlife scene and affordable places where students can live.

Is Beijing or Munich Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Munich is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Beijing is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Munich can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Transit options include a subway (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams, and buses.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Beijing. The system can be crowded and confusing at first, but it's one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. There's a subway system as well as buses, trolleybuses, and suburban rail.

Is Beijing or Munich a more walkable city?

Munich is a great destination for its ease of walking around. However, Beijing is a city with minimal options for its walkability.

Munich is a very walkable destination. While walking tours are a great way to explore, the city is quite large so you'll want to take public transit as well.

Beijing is generally not a very walkable city. While parts of the city are fun to explore on foot, the city itself is very large with long blocks that aren't pedestrian-friendly.

For even more information, also check out Is Beijing Worth Visiting? and Is Munich Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Munich or Beijing?

How long in Beijing or Munich?

In either Beijing or Munich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Beijing than Munich because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Beijing, and 2-5 days is enough time in Munich.

Families should spend more time in Munich than Beijing. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Munich, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Munich than Beijing. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Munich that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Munich than Beijing if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Munich.

One day in Beijing or Munich?

Beijing is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Munich, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Beijing or Munich?

Beijing is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Munich, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer.

Five days in Beijing or Munich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Beijing. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Munich is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Munich has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Beijing or Munich?

Beijing is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Munich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Munich. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Beijing, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to China, The Best Luxury Tours to Germany, and The Best Budget Tours to Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Beijing and Munich, we can see that Munich is more expensive. And not only is Beijing much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Beijing is in Asia and Munich is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Beijing would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Beijing and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Munich would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Munich than you might in Beijing.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Beijing Expensive? and Is Munich Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Beijing or Munich?

Beijing has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Munich. When comparing the sizes of Beijing and Munich, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Beijing or Munich?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Beijing or Munich in the Summer?

Both Munich and Beijing are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Beijing for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Munich because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Beijing is a little warmer than Munich in the summer. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Munich fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

It's quite sunny in Munich. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Beijing. Beijing usually receives less sunshine than Munich during summer. Beijing gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 242 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Beijing. In July, Beijing usually receives more rain than Munich. Beijing gets 176 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Munich receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Beijing or Munich in the Autumn?

Both Munich and Beijing during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Beijing because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Munich this time of year.

In the autumn, Beijing is a little warmer than Munich. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Beijing in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Munich averages at about 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Beijing. In the autumn, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Munich. Beijing gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 115 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in October than Munich. Beijing gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Munich receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Beijing or Munich in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Beijing and Munich. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Beijing this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Munich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Munich. It's quite cold in Beijing in the winter. In January, Beijing is generally much colder than Munich. Daily temperatures in Beijing average around -4°C (26°F), and Munich fluctuates around -1°C (31°F).

In Beijing, it's very sunny this time of the year. Beijing usually receives more sunshine than Munich during winter. Beijing gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Munich receives 30 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Beijing usually receives less rain than Munich. Beijing gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Munich receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Beijing or Munich in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Beijing as well as Munich. Many travelers come to Beijing for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Munich in the spring for the activities around the city.

Beijing is a little warmer than Munich in the spring. The daily temperature in Beijing averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Munich fluctuates around 11°C (53°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Beijing this time of the year. In the spring, Beijing often gets more sunshine than Munich. Beijing gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Munich receives 172 hours of full sun.

Beijing usually gets less rain in April than Munich. Beijing gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Munich receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Munich and Beijing