Munich: Classic Bike Tour & Chinese Tower Beer Garden Stop

Summary

Munich’s old town, river surfers and chestnut-shaded beer garden laughs

You’ll bike through Munich’s Old Town past iconic spots like Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz, then cruise leafy paths in the English Garden before relaxing at the Chinese Tower beer garden. With a friendly local guide leading and all bikes provided, you’ll catch sights, stories, and small moments you might miss on your own — plus plenty of time to soak up that famous Munich atmosphere.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll hear the city before you see it,” our guide Max grinned, ringing his bike bell as we gathered near Marienplatz. He was right — even before we pedaled off, there was this low buzz of chatter and clinking glasses drifting from somewhere nearby. Helmets on (I always feel a bit dorky in them), we followed Max past cobblestones that rattled under our wheels and into the heart of Munich’s Old Town. The Hofbräuhaus looked like something out of a fairy tale, but honestly I was more distracted by the smell of pretzels wafting out from a side street bakery. I tried to ask how to pronounce “Gemütlichkeit” properly — Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin too. Probably butchered both versions.

The ride itself felt easy, even for someone who hasn’t biked in ages (me). We stopped at Odeonsplatz where Max pointed out the yellow Theatinerkirche — he called it “the lemon cake church” because of its color. There were locals lounging in Hofgarten, some playing chess under the trees, others just watching people go by. It was one of those perfect late afternoons where the light makes everything look softer. Our group got quiet rolling through the English Garden; you could hear nothing but distant laughter and the rush of water from the Eisbach wave where those river surfers do their thing — honestly wild to see in person.

I didn’t expect to love the beer garden stop as much as I did. The Chinese Tower is surrounded by these huge chestnut trees and everyone seemed to be in good spirits — maybe it’s just something about Bavarian benches that makes strangers talk to each other. I ended up sharing a table with an older couple who told me about their first date here decades ago (their dialect was thick but their smiles said enough). Food and drinks aren’t included, so bring some cash if you want a Radler or sausage — I still think about that tangy mustard.

We looped back past House of the Arts and finished at Müller’s Public Bath, legs slightly wobbly but happy-tired. Max waved us off with a “Servus!” and for a second it felt like we’d slipped into some local rhythm — not tourists exactly, just people moving through Munich together for an afternoon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Munich bike tour with highlights

• Meet at Marienplatz Statue of Juliet
• Introduction and walk to bike shop
• Collect bikes and optional helmets
• Visit The Platzl and Hofbräuhaus
• Hear Wittelsbacher family stories
• See Opera House and Residenz
• Cycle through Odeonsplatz square
• View Theatine Church and Feldherrnhalle
• Pass Munich Residence palace
• Cycle through Hofgarten garden
• Explore English Garden park
• Stop at Chinese Tower Beer Garden
• Admire House of the Arts building
• Visit Isartor medieval city gate
• Conclude tour at Müller's Public Bath

Top questions

What time does the Munich classic bike tour start?

The tour starts daily at 4 PM from mid-May to October.

Is food or drink included at the beer garden stop?

No, food and drinks are not included; bring cash if you want to buy something.

Where is the meeting point for this bike tour?

You meet at 3:55pm by the Statue of Juliet at Marienplatz 15.

How long is this Munich bike tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours (150 minutes).

Are helmets provided on this tour?

Yes, helmets are included on request for all participants.

Is this bike tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join if accompanied by an adult; infant seats are available.

What landmarks will we see during this bike tour?

You’ll pass Marienplatz, Hofbräuhaus, Odeonsplatz, English Garden, House of the Arts, Hofgarten, Isartor gate and Müller’s Public Bath.

Is public transportation nearby after the tour ends?

Yes, public transport options are available close to both start and end points.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes use of a comfortable bicycle (with helmet if you want), guidance from an English-speaking local who knows every shortcut and story along the way, plus plenty of stops for photos or snacks as you explore Munich’s highlights together before finishing up near Müller’s Public Bath.