Munich

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Buses

City buses and long-distance coaches provide extensive connectivity within Munich and beyond.

Sections

1. Overview of the Bus System in Munich

Munich's buses are modern, clean, and punctual. They serve areas not directly covered by the U-Bahn or S-Bahn, making them essential for reaching residential neighborhoods, business districts, and some tourist attractions. There are several types of buses in Munich:

  • City Buses (StadtBus): Operate within the city and connect to U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations.
  • Express Buses (ExpressBus): Faster routes with fewer stops, ideal for longer distances.
  • Night Buses (NachtBus): Operate during the night when other public transport options are limited (usually between 1:00 AM and 4:30 AM).
  • Regional Buses: Connect Munich to surrounding towns and villages in Bavaria.

2. Schedules and Frequency

  • Operating Hours: Most buses run from 5:00 AM to midnight, with night buses taking over after midnight.
  • Frequency: During peak hours (morning and evening), buses typically run every 5โ€“10 minutes. During off-peak hours, the frequency is reduced to every 10โ€“20 minutes.
  • Night Buses: Operate hourly or every 30 minutes, depending on the route.

You can check real-time schedules and plan your journey using the MVG Fahrinfo app or the MVG website.

3. Ticket Costs

Munich uses a zone-based fare system, and bus tickets are part of the integrated MVV (Mรผnchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund) network, meaning the same ticket can be used on buses, U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and trams. Ticket prices depend on the number of zones you travel through.

Common Ticket Options:

  • Single Ticket (Einzelfahrkarte):
    • Short trip (up to 4 stops): โ‚ฌ1.90
    • Within one zone: โ‚ฌ3.70
  • Day Ticket (Tageskarte):
    • Inner city (Zone M): โ‚ฌ8.80
    • Entire network: โ‚ฌ16.10
  • Weekly Ticket (Wochenkarte): Starts at โ‚ฌ17.80 for Zone M.
  • Group Day Ticket (Gruppen-Tageskarte): โ‚ฌ16.10 for up to 5 adults traveling together in Zone M.
  • Children (6โ€“14 years): Reduced fares apply (e.g., โ‚ฌ1.90 for a single ticket).

Tips:

  • Children under 6 travel for free.
  • If you plan to use public transport multiple times in a day, a Day Ticket is more economical.
  • For tourists, the Munich CityTourCard or Munich Card offers unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.

4. How to Purchase Tickets

Tickets can be purchased through several convenient methods:

  • Ticket Machines: Found at U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations. These machines accept cash, debit, and credit cards.
  • MVG Fahrinfo App: Download the app to buy digital tickets directly on your smartphone.
  • Onboard Purchase: You can buy tickets from the bus driver, but only single tickets are available, and you must pay in cash (small denominations preferred).
  • Kiosks and Shops: Many kiosks and convenience stores sell MVV tickets.

Important Notes:

  • Validate your ticket before boarding if itโ€™s not pre-validated (e.g., tickets from machines or kiosks). Use the blue validation machines located at bus stops or inside the bus.
  • Tickets purchased via the app or from the driver are already validated.

5. Using the Bus: Rules and Procedures

  • Boarding and Exiting:
    • Enter through the front door and exit through the rear or middle doors.
    • Show your ticket to the driver if you purchased it onboard or if requested during random inspections.
  • Seating and Standing:
    • Priority seats near the front are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
    • If the bus is crowded, stand in designated areas and hold onto the handrails.
  • Luggage and Strollers:
    • Strollers and small luggage are allowed free of charge. Larger luggage should be placed in designated areas.
  • Pets:
    • Small pets in carriers travel for free. Larger dogs require a childโ€™s ticket.
  • Bicycles:
    • Bicycles are generally not allowed on buses, except folding bikes.

6. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

  • Punctuality: Buses in Munich are very punctual. Arrive at the stop a few minutes early, as buses rarely wait.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Germans value quietness on public transport. Keep conversations low and avoid playing music or making phone calls loudly.
  • Queueing: While not strictly enforced, itโ€™s polite to let passengers exit the bus before boarding.
  • Cash for Onboard Tickets: If you plan to buy a ticket from the driver, have small bills or coins ready, as drivers may not have change for large denominations.
  • Plan for Sundays and Holidays: Bus frequency may be reduced on Sundays and public holidays. Check schedules in advance.
  • Accessibility: Most buses are wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.

7. Planning Your Journey

  • Use the MVG Fahrinfo app or Google Maps to plan your route. Both provide real-time updates, including delays or changes.
  • Look for the bus stop signs (a green "H" on a yellow background) to locate stops. Each stop has a timetable and route map posted.

8. Special Considerations for Tourists

  • Airport Connections: The Lufthansa Express Bus connects Munich Airport to the city center. Itโ€™s faster than regular buses but costs more (โ‚ฌ11 one-way, โ‚ฌ17 round-trip).
  • Popular Tourist Routes: Some buses pass by major attractions. For example, Bus 100 (Museum Line) connects several museums and cultural sites.
  • Language Barrier: Most bus drivers speak basic English, but itโ€™s helpful to know a few German phrases like "Ein Ticket, bitte" (One ticket, please).

9. Emergency and Assistance

  • In case of emergencies, press the red button near the doors to alert the driver.
  • For lost items, contact the MVG Lost and Found Office (Fundbรผro).

By following this guide, youโ€™ll find Munichโ€™s bus system easy to navigate and a convenient way to explore the city. Enjoy your time in Munich!