Munich: Bike Tour with English Garden & Beer Garden Lunch

Summary

Morning cycling Munich landmarks riverside parks beer garden stop

You’ll cycle through Munich’s lively streets with a local guide, pause at royal squares and palaces, then ride into the English Garden for lunch beneath chestnut trees at the Chinese Tower beer garden (lunch not included). Expect laughter over shared tables, river breezes as you pedal along the Isar, and small moments that linger long after you’ve returned your bike.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried to pronounce ‘Hofbräuhaus’ after two espressos?” our guide Tom grinned at us right in Marienplatz, and honestly, I hadn’t. The city was already humming — bells from the Glockenspiel, that faint smell of pretzels wafting over from somewhere. I was a bit nervous about biking in a new city but Tom made it feel like we were just friends out for a spin. Helmets were optional (I took one, because I’m me), and the bikes felt sturdy enough that even my wobbly start didn’t get any side-eye from the group.

We zigzagged past palaces and squares — Odeonsplatz, Max Joseph Platz — with Tom tossing in stories about royal families and old rivalries. There was this moment by the Residenz courtyards where sunlight caught on the old stone and everything just kind of stilled for a second. I remember thinking: this is what mornings should feel like. We stopped in Hofgarten too; locals were playing chess on those big boards, and someone’s dog kept chasing pigeons. It smelled like grass after last night’s rain.

The ride into the English Garden was easy — honestly flatter than I expected. Suddenly there were surfers on the Eisbach wave (I know, surfing in Munich? Wild). We parked up under these chestnut trees near the Chinese Tower for lunch. It’s self-service at the beer garden so you can grab whatever — I went for bratwurst and a Radler, but there were veggie options too. The whole group just sort of sprawled out together at those long tables, swapping stories with other travelers and some locals who laughed at my attempt to order in German (I definitely butchered it). Food & drinks weren’t included but nobody seemed to mind.

Afterwards we followed the Isar river — Tom called it “Munich’s beach” which made me smile — all green water and people sunning themselves along the banks. The tour wrapped up near Hofbräuhaus again; legs a little tired but not wrecked. I still think about that quiet stretch by the river where everything slowed down. If you’re looking for a classic Munich bike tour that doesn’t feel rushed or scripted, this one’s got something real to it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Munich bike tour with landmarks and lunch

• Meet at Marienplatz
• Intro and start bike tour
• Purchase water and ponchos
• Visit The Platzl and Hofbräuhaus
• See Bavarian State Chancellory and Hofgarten
• Ride through Residenz courtyards
• Learn Wittelsbach family history
• Stop at Mullersches Volksbad and St. Kajetan Church
• Cycle through English Garden park
• Lunch at Chinese Tower Beer Garden
• Scenic ride along Isar River
• Quick stop on far side of Isar
• Photo stop at Maximilianeum
• End tour near Hofbräuhaus S-Bahn

Top questions

How long is the Munich bike tour?

The tour lasts approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.

Where does the Munich bike tour start?

The meeting point is Marienplatz 15, near the Toy Museum.

Is lunch included in the Munich bike tour?

No, food and drinks at the Chinese Tower Beer Garden are not included in the price.

Are helmets provided on this bike tour?

Yes, helmets are available free of charge if you want one.

What language is the tour conducted in?

The tour is conducted in English only.

Is this Munich bike tour suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available.

Does this tour run if it rains?

Yes, tours go out regardless of weather; ponchos are sold for €1 if needed.

What are some highlights of this Munich bike tour?

You’ll see Marienplatz, Odeonsplatz, Hofbräuhaus area, Residenz courtyards, Hofgarten, Mullersches Volksbad, English Garden with beer garden stop, Maximilianeum and ride along the Isar river.

What’s included

Your morning includes use of a comfortable bicycle (with helmet if you want), entry into historic courtyards like those at the Residenz palace complex, an English-speaking local guide leading every stop from Marienplatz to riverside parks and beer gardens—plus time to buy your own lunch under chestnut trees at Munich’s famous Chinese Tower before finishing near Hofbräuhaus.