Train service
Leo Express
Leo Express is a Czech private transport company offering train and bus services in Central Europe, partly owned by Spain’s Renfe.
Trenitalia
Trenitalia is Italy’s state-owned rail operator, running high-speed, intercity, and regional trains across the country and beyond.
SJ
SJ is Sweden’s state-owned train operator, running high-speed, regional, and long-distance services across the country and into neighboring nations.
Train tickets
Omio
Omio connects you with over 1,000 transport providers - trains, buses, flights, and more - to simplify your travel planning.
Trainline
Trainline sells rail and coach tickets worldwide on behalf of major UK and European transport companies.
Raileurope
Rail Europe is a leading travel tech company specializing in European train bookings for over 15,000 travel professionals worldwide.
Rail pass validity
When traveling by train from Malmö to Munich, the Interrail Global Pass is valid if you are a resident of an EU country other than Sweden or Germany. The Interrail One Country Pass would not be valid for this journey as it only covers travel within a single country. The Eurail Pass is also valid for this route, provided you are a non-EU resident. For residents of Sweden or Germany specifically, neither Interrail nor Eurail passes would be valid for journeys within their own countries.
Getting around
Upon arriving in Munich by train, you will likely find yourself at the Hauptbahnhof, the city's main railway station. From here, you have several options for getting around the city. Munich’s public transportation network, operated by MVV (Münchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund), includes the U-Bahn (metro), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses.
The U-Bahn and S-Bahn systems are the most efficient for longer distances within Munich. The U-Bahn is extensive and covers the central parts of the city and beyond, while the S-Bahn connects the city center with suburbs and the airport. You can catch either of these from Hauptbahnhof. Frequent service ensures that waiting times are minimal, and tickets are available at automated machines and must be validated before boarding.
For shorter trips, the city's tram system is convenient and allows you to immerse yourself in the sights of the city. Trams run frequently and are a scenic way to travel through different neighborhoods, connecting areas not directly accessible by U-Bahn or S-Bahn.
Buses fill in the gaps in the city’s transport system and typically operate in areas not served by train or tram. They are especially useful for reaching more specific destinations within the outer districts.
Taxis are readily available throughout Munich and can be hailed on the street, found at taxi stands, or booked through various mobile applications. They are a more expensive option, but provide convenience and comfort, particularly for destinations off the public transportation grid.
Ridesharing services like Uber, Lyft, and local options such as Free Now offer an alternative to traditional taxis, often at a slightly lower fare. These services can be booked via their respective apps, providing an easy and flexible way to get around the city.
Consider purchasing a day pass or a multi-day pass if you plan to use public transport frequently. These passes provide unlimited travel within certain zones and are more cost-effective than single tickets. Whether you prefer the speed of the metro, the charm of trams, or the convenience of a rideshare, Munich offers a robust and efficient transportation network to suit your travel needs.
Onward connections
Munich, being a central hub in Bavaria, boasts numerous efficient and popular rail connections both domestically and internationally. Domestically, the Deutsche Bahn offers direct trains from Munich to major German cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt. The high-speed ICE trains are commonly used, with frequent services allowing travelers to reach Berlin in about four hours and Frankfurt in just over three hours. Connections to Stuttgart and Nuremberg are also well-served, taking approximately two hours and one hour respectively.
Internationally, Munich is a gateway to several countries via direct train services. The EuroCity trains connect Munich to Zurich, with a travel time of around four hours, offering stunning views of the Alpine landscape. Vienna is another popular route, reached in about four hours via direct trains operated by both the Deutsche Bahn and the Austrian Railways (ÖBB). For those traveling to Italy, direct services to Venice are available, taking approximately seven hours. Trains also run to Prague, providing a scenic journey of about five and a half hours. These connections make use of the efficient railway network, providing swift, comfortable, and scenic travel throughout Europe.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Munich largely depends on what you're looking for in your travel experience. Generally, late spring (May to early June) offers a delightful balance of mild weather and fewer crowds, making it a great time for sightseeing and enjoying the city's parks and gardens. During this period, the cost of accommodation and travel is relatively moderate compared to the summer months. Summer (late June to August) brings warmer weather and a bustling atmosphere, as tourists flock to the city and prices tend to rise. This is also the season for open-air festivals and outdoor activities, making it appealing if you enjoy vibrant, lively settings.
The fall, from September to October, is an iconic period to visit Munich, with the world-renowned Oktoberfest drawing millions to the city. The crisp autumn air and lively beer halls create a unique and festive experience, though accommodation prices can be high, and booking in advance is crucial. Winter (December) transforms Munich into a winter wonderland with its charming Christmas markets, adding a cozy, festive ambiance. While the weather is cold, the city is less crowded, and prices can be more reasonable.
Ultimately, the best time to visit depends on your preferences around crowd size, activities, and climate. Traveling by train during these peak times, especially for Oktoberfest, requires planning ahead for the best travel rates.
Frequently asked questions
What affects the cost of a train ticket from Malmö to Munich?
According to EveryRail, train ticket prices from Malmö to Munich are dynamic. Demand influences prices significantly. Peak travel times result in higher prices. Booking in advance often offers lower prices. Flexible tickets cost more than fixed ones. Discounts for certain passengers can affect pricing. Rail companies' pricing strategies vary. Seasonality also impacts ticket costs. Competitive routes may lead to price adjustments.
What trains run from Malmö to Munich?
There are no direct trains operated by SJ from Malmö to Munich. Flixbus operates buses between Malmö and Munich. Leo Express does not operate trains or buses on this route. Trenitalia does not operate trains on this route.
How long does the train from Malmö to Munich take?
According to EveryRail, the train from Malmö to Munich takes 11 to 13 hours.
When is the best time to travel from Malmö to Munich?
Travel during weekdays. Avoid weekends for fewer crowds. Summer months are busier. Spring and fall often have lower demand. Prices are higher during holidays. Book well in advance for better deals. Early mornings offer quieter journeys. Avoid school vacation periods. Consider mid-week for a balance of cost and comfort.
What’s the best route or train to take from Malmö to Munich?
Flixbus runs direct bus services from Malmö to Munich. No direct train services operate on this route.
What rail passes can I use to travel from Malmö to Munich?
According to EveryRail, a Global Pass applies for the route from Malmö to Munich. This is because the origin and destination are in different countries. The Interrail Global Pass is for EU residents, while the Eurail Global Pass is for non-EU residents.