The Ultimate Munich & Metzingen Outlet Shopping Trip Guide
This guide provides a comprehensive itinerary for a memorable journey from the Bavarian capital of Munich to the world-renowned designer outlet in Metzingen and back. It is designed for travelers seeking a perfect blend of urban culture, high-fashion shopping, and scenic German landscapes.
Part 1: Munich – The Bavarian Capital
Munich (München) is a city that effortlessly blends traditional Bavarian culture with modern innovation. Known for its annual Oktoberfest, magnificent palaces, and vibrant beer gardens, it serves as an ideal starting point for this excursion.
Key Attractions in Munich
Marienplatz and the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus): The heart of Munich. Visitors should not miss the Glockenspiel performance, which chimes and reenacts two stories from the 16th century daily at 11 am and 12 pm (and 5 pm in summer).
Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady): The iconic twin-domed church is a symbol of Munich. Its south tower offers a panoramic view of the city and, on a clear day, the Alps.
English Garden (Englischer Garten): One of the world's largest urban parks. Highlights include the Chinese Tower beer garden, the surfers riding the standing wave at the Eisbach river, and leisurely walks along its extensive paths.
Nymphenburg Palace: A breathtaking Baroque palace that was the summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs. The palace park, with its hidden pavilions and canal, is equally impressive.
Viktualienmarkt: A daily open-air market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, flowers, and more. It's a perfect spot to experience local life and enjoy a quick lunch.
Deutsches Museum: One of the world's oldest and largest science and technology museums, located on an island in the Isar river. It offers fascinating exhibits for all ages.
Food & Drink in Munich
Bavarian cuisine is hearty and flavorful. Essential culinary experiences include:
Weißwurst: A traditional white sausage, typically eaten before noon. Served with sweet mustard, freshly baked pretzels (Brezn), and a wheat beer (Weißbier).
Schweinshaxe: A crispy roasted pork knuckle, often served with potato dumplings (Knödel) and red cabbage (Blaukraut).
Obatzda: A flavorful cheese spread made from camembert, butter, and paprika, perfect with a pretzel.
Beer Gardens: Visit classics like the Hofbräukeller, Augustiner-Keller, or the one in the Chinese Tower. Remember, it's customary to bring your own food to some tables (Brotzeit), but drinks must be purchased from the establishment.
Apfelstrudel: A classic apple strudel, best enjoyed with a dollop of vanilla sauce (Vanillesoße).
Accommodation Tips for Munich
Munich offers a wide range of accommodations. For first-time visitors, staying in or near the Altstadt (Old Town) provides easy access to major sights. The neighborhoods of Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt (near the main train station) offer good value and connectivity. For a more local vibe, consider Schwabing or Maxvorstadt. Booking well in advance is crucial, especially during major events like Oktoberfest or Christmas markets.
Cultural Insights for Munich
Munich is proud of its "Laptop and Lederhosen" ethos, where cutting-edge technology coexists with deep-rooted traditions. Punctuality is highly valued. When greeting someone, a firm handshake with direct eye contact is standard. In beer halls and gardens, it is common to share tables with strangers—a great way to meet locals. A friendly "Prost!" (cheers) is essential before taking the first sip of beer, and remember to clink glasses while looking into the eyes of your drinking companions.
Part 2: The Journey from Munich to Metzingen
The trip from Munich to Metzingen is a straightforward and scenic train journey through the heart of Baden-Württemberg.
Transportation: Train is King
The most efficient and relaxing way to travel is by train. Driving is an option, but traffic and parking can be stressful.
Route: Take a high-speed ICE (InterCity Express) train from Munich Hauptbahnhof (Main Station) directly to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
Connection: In Stuttgart, transfer to a regional train (e.g., MEX 16 or IRE 6) bound for Tübingen or Plochingen. The ride from Stuttgart to Metzingen (Württ) takes about 25-30 minutes.
Tickets: It is highly recommended to book train tickets in advance on the Deutsche Bahn (DB) website or app for the best fares. Look for "Sparpreis" (saver fare) tickets. For flexibility, a "Baden-Württemberg Ticket" can be a good value for regional trains if traveling in a group, but it is only valid from 9 am on weekdays and all day on weekends.
Total Travel Time: Allow roughly 3 hours door-to-door.
The Station: The Metzingen train station is conveniently located just a 5-10 minute walk from the outlet stores.
Part 3: Metzingen Outlet (Outletcity Metzingen)
What started as a factory store for Hugo Boss in the 1970s has blossomed into one of Europe's premier designer outlet destinations. Outletcity Metzingen features over 70 luxury and premium brands in a compact, pedestrian-friendly area, offering past seasons' collections at significantly reduced prices.
Major Brands and Shopping Tips
Top Brands: Hugo Boss (the flagship store is massive), Prada, Gucci, Burberry, Bally, Jimmy Choo, Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, Lacoste, and many more.
Shopping Strategy:
Plan Ahead: Check the Outletcity Metzingen website for current opening hours, new brands, and special events. Download the map or pick one up at the information center.
Early Bird: Arrive early in the day, especially on weekends, to avoid the biggest crowds and have the best selection.
Tax-Free Shopping: Non-EU residents can shop tax-free. Ask for a tax-free form at the store and get it stamped at customs upon leaving the EU.
Payment: Most stores accept major credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash (Euros).
Try Before You Buy: Sizes and stock can be limited. Don't hesitate to try things on as final sales are common.
Amenities at the Outlet
The outlet is designed for a comfortable shopping experience. Amenities include:
Information Center & Guest Services: Located at the main entrances, they provide maps, assistance, and locker rentals to store your purchases.
Dining Options: From quick bites to sit-down meals. Options include:
TIZIAN Grill & Bar: For steaks and international cuisine.
Vapiano: For fresh pasta and pizza.
Starbucks and local cafes: For coffee breaks.
Sausage stands and ice cream parlors: For a quick German snack.
Rest Areas and Playgrounds: There are designated areas to rest, which is especially useful for families.
Cultural Insight: The Town of Metzingen
While most visitors come for the shopping, the town of Metzingen itself has a charming old town center (Altstadt) with half-timbered houses, just a short walk from the outlet area. It's worth a brief stroll to see the contrast between modern consumerism and traditional Swabian life. The region is also part of Germany's wine-growing area, so look for local Rieslings and Trollingers.
Part 4: The Return to Munich
The return journey follows the same route in reverse. After a long day of shopping, the comfort of the train is particularly welcome.
Logistics for the Return Trip
Last Trains: Be sure to check the schedule for the last direct connections from Stuttgart to Munich. Missing the last high-speed train can result in a long and complicated journey back.
Luggage: If you've made significant purchases, consider bringing a foldable duffel bag for your new items. The trains have dedicated luggage racks.
Dinner on the Go: The Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof has numerous bakeries and food stalls where you can grab dinner before boarding your train back to Munich. Many ICE trains also have a restaurant car or a bistro serving snacks and drinks.
A Sample One-Day Itinerary
07:00 AM: Have a quick breakfast at your hotel or a bakery in Munich.
07:50 AM: Board an ICE train from Munich Hbf to Stuttgart Hbf.
10:10 AM: Arrive at Stuttgart Hbf. Transfer to a regional train to Metzingen.
10:45 AM: Arrive at Metzingen station and walk to the outlets. Start shopping!
01:00 PM: Break for lunch at one of the outlet's restaurants.
04:30 PM: Conclude shopping, head back to the train station.
05:00 PM: Take a regional train from Metzingen to Stuttgart.
05:45 PM: Arrive at Stuttgart Hbf. Grab a bite to eat if needed.
06:30 PM: Board an ICE train back to Munich.
08:45 PM: Arrive back in Munich, perhaps ready for a relaxing evening drink at a beer hall.
A Two-Day Relaxed Itinerary
For a less rushed experience, consider an overnight stay in Metzingen or Stuttgart.
Day 1: Travel from Munich to Metzingen in the morning. Spend the full day shopping at a leisurely pace. In the evening, check into a hotel in Metzingen or Stuttgart and enjoy a relaxed Swabian dinner. In Stuttgart, you could visit the Mercedes-Benz or Porsche Museum if time allows.
Day 2: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. If staying in Stuttgart, you could explore the city center (Königstraße shopping street, Palace Square) before taking an afternoon train back to Munich.
Practical Tips and Final Advice
Weather: Check the forecast. The journey involves walking between stations and outlets. Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable.
Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, shops, and on trains. However, learning a few basic German phrases like "Guten Tag" (Good day), "Danke" (Thank you), and "Wo ist...?" (Where is...?) is always appreciated.
Money: Germany is a cash-friendly society, though cards are widely accepted at the outlets. Always have some Euros on hand for smaller purchases or snacks at stations.
Sustainable Travel: By choosing the train over a car, you are already making an eco-friendlier choice. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle; tap water in Germany is safe to drink.
The "Prost" Rule: Remember this Bavarian custom when you celebrate your successful shopping trip with a beer back in Munich!
