Munich offers more than just beer halls and bratwurst; it’s a city layered with stories—from its dark chapters during the Nazi era to its medieval streets and innovative craft scene. For those interested in understanding Munich’s complex history, exploring its past with a guided tour adds depth and context that a solo visit might miss. Our favorites include a comprehensive Nazi history tour that covers Dachau, and a walk through the city’s darker WW2 sites. These tours help you grasp how Munich shapes its identity today, often through stories that aren’t in guidebooks. For a lighter cultural experience, the craft beer tour offers a fun way to get to know local traditions and neighborhoods. Whether you want to walk through history or sample Munich’s brewing innovations, the options below will help you find the perfect fit.
Quick Overview
We’ve selected the best historical tours in Munich based on their depth, uniqueness, and reviews. This list features a comprehensive Nazi history experience, a short but lively craft beer and cultural walk, and a full-day trip to the UNESCO-listed city of Regensburg. Each offers a different way to engage with Munich’s past and present. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Munich and Nazi History Combination Day Tour Small Group
At number one, this 8-hour small group tour offers a powerful look at Munich’s role during the Nazi era, combining memorial visits with city walking tours. It’s perfect for anyone eager to understand how this dark period shaped modern Germany. The tour begins at Marienplatz, then takes you on a 45-minute train ride to Dachau, where an in-depth guided tour of the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site lasts about three hours. The guide shares stories and facts that bring the site’s history to life, making it more than just a visit—it’s a lesson in resilience and history. Returning to Munich, the tour continues with a walking tour of key sites related to Hitler and the Nazis, including Führerbau and Königsplatz. The itinerary also includes a lunch break at Marienplatz and visits to iconic local spots like the Hofbräuhaus.
What makes this tour stand out is its detailed focus on Hitler’s rise and the dark chapters of Munich’s past, complemented by a visit to Dachau. The small group size—maximum 15—ensures a personal experience, with plenty of time for questions. Reviewers rave about guides like Alun, noting their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, respectful, and emotional journey through Germany’s most troubling yet significant history.
Bottom line: This tour offers an intense, educational experience that highlights Munich’s role in Nazi history with expert guidance and small-group intimacy. Book early, as it’s popular.
2. Munich: Guided Craft Beer & Cultural Tour With Snack
For those who prefer a lighter, more social way to explore Munich’s history, the 3-hour craft beer tour provides a lively introduction to the city’s microbrewery scene. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this walk takes you through some of Munich’s lesser-known neighborhoods, stopping at several independent microbreweries to sample a variety of craft beers. Along the way, you’ll learn about Munich’s long brewing traditions and how modern brewers are innovating within a city famous for its beer halls and festivals.
This tour is praised for its friendly guide and the chance to taste authentic local beers, making it perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, social experience. The inclusion of a snack adds a bit of local flavor, rounding out the culture. While shorter than other tours, it’s ideal for those short on time but eager to understand Munich’s contemporary drinking culture alongside its history.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about Munich’s craft beer scene and want a fun, informal walk, this tour is a hit. It’s best suited for beer lovers and those who enjoy offbeat city explorations.
3. Munich to Regensburg: UNESCO World Heritage Site
A full-day escape from Munich, this 8-hour trip takes you to the beautifully preserved medieval city of Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006. The tour covers the city’s highlights: the Cathedral, the historic Stone Bridge, and the charming Wurstkuchl. Regensburg’s medieval streets are a living museum, with its well-preserved old walls and vibrant university scene making it an ideal place to stroll for history and architecture lovers.
This tour emphasizes Regensburg’s distinction as Germany’s best-preserved medieval city, with a rich history that spans Roman times through the Middle Ages. The small-group setup ensures a personalized visit, with ample time to explore and enjoy local eateries. The town’s two UNESCO titles underline its importance, and the city’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a rewarding day trip.
Reviewers appreciate the seamless logistics and the opportunity to see a lesser-known gem just a short ride from Munich. The visit is perfect for those wanting a mix of history, architecture, and relaxed sightseeing.
Bottom line: A full-day trip that offers a taste of Germany’s medieval past in a stunning setting. Suitable for history buffs and culture seekers alike.
How to Choose
When selecting the best Munich historical tour, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a deep dive into Nazi history, the Munich and Nazi History Combination Day Tour is unmatched for its thoroughness. For a more laid-back, social experience that introduces Munich’s craft beer culture, the guided craft beer tour is ideal. If you’re curious about medieval architecture and want to explore beyond the city, the Regensburg day trip provides a charming, UNESCO-listed experience.
Budget, fitness level, and how much time you have will shape your decision. For example, those interested in WWII history should book early for the combined Nazi tour, which sells out. If you’re short on time but want a taste of local culture, the craft beer walk is perfect. And for a full-day adventure into Germany’s medieval past, Regensburg ticks all the boxes.
Munich’s diverse history offers something for every traveler. From the somber lessons of Dachau to lively beer halls and historic medieval streets, these tours provide authentic ways to connect with the city’s past. For history lovers, the Munich and Nazi History Combination Tour stands out; for casual explorers, the craft beer experience hits the right note; and for those wanting a charming escape, Regensburg delivers. Book early and pick the tour that best matches your interests—Munich awaits with stories that will stay with you long after you leave.