A Digital Nomad Guide to Munich

Munich Visa

If you’re a European passport holder, it’ll be extremely easy for you to move in and out of Germany. In fact, EU residents don’t need a visa to enter the country. In most cases, you don’t even need a work permit to be able to live and work in Munich. It’s important to know that you’re legally required to register your address if you’re going to live in the country for more than twelve weeks. For this, you’ll need to present your passport or ID as well as a confirmation from your property owner or landlord. 

Now, if you’re not a resident of the EU, the process isn’t quite as straightforward. Non-residents need to apply for a Schengen Visa that will grant them up to 90 days in Germany. It’s good to know that Schengen Visas are only granted once every 180 days. When applying for a regular tourist Schengen Visa, you’ll need to provide the following documents: 

• Duly filled and completed application form 
• Two recent passport-sized photographs 
• Passport 
• Roundtrip plane or train tickets
• Travel health insurance 
• Proof of accommodation 

Additionally, you will need to provide proof of financial means to show that you can support yourself throughout your stay in Munich. This can be either a statement of your bank account or a letter from a sponsor (also known as an Affidavit of Support). 

In some non-European countries such as Australia, Hong Kong, and El Salvador (among others), you may be authorized to enter Europe without a Schengen Visa. You can view the complete list of country on the official website. 

Alternatively, you can also apply for a Business Schengen Visa that will allow you to conduct business in Germany and elsewhere in Europe. Along with the documents required for a tourist visa, you’ll need to provide a letter from your employer as well as proof of confirmation. I should point out that this visa isn’t exactly easy to get and there’s quite a bit of waiting time so be sure to plan your trip in advance.

Culture and Food in Munich

The local food scene fuses both German and Bavarian flavors, with plenty of meat and carbs on the menu. I was able to chat with a local chef who told me that Munich’s cuisine was originally developed by Bavarian dukes who used to favor more extravagant ingredients, which is probably why meat (highly expensive at the time) seems to be at the forefront of virtually every dish the city. Germany’s location means that it also borrows flavors from neighboring countries such as Austria and Czech. 

Here are a few scrumptious dishes that you just can’t skip during your stay in Munich: 

• Brotzeit: If you ask me, there’s no better way to start the day than by sitting down to a platter of Brotzeit. Now, contrary to popular belief, this classic Munich breakfast dish actually comprises of several items that somehow come together in lip-smacking harmony. These include condiments such as onions and pickled radishes as well as hard-boiled eggs, head cheese, dried wurst, ham, and thick slabs of Nordic bread generously slathered in homemade butter. 

• Schweinshaxe: This basically refers to German-style pork knuckle. I’ve never been an experimental eater so digging into a piece of knuckle didn’t exactly sound appetizing to me. In this instance, however, I’m really glad to have braved this meal because it turned out to be one of the most delicious things I tried in Munich. Schweinshaxe is known for its crisp and bronze exterior, courtesy of the thick layer of skin and fat that covers the knuckle. Since it’s best enjoyed with a pint of ice-cold beer, this dish is a classic staple for Oktoberfest. 

• German Pretzels: If you’re tempted to skip this one because you know what a pretzel tastes like, trust me when I say that German Pretzels taste nothing like their American counterparts- even though they look the same. Also known as Brezen or Brezeln in Munich, these pretzels have a perfectly doughy, almost bread-like interior. It’s commonly smeared in either baking soda or lye solution prior to being baked. Another Oktoberfest staple, German Pretzels are usually served as an appetizer. 

• Knöpfle: Knöpfle is to Munich what pasta is to Italy. What makes these egg noodles different from regular ones is that instead of water, Bavarian beer is added to flour, salt, and eggs. This results in a surprisingly soft yet chewy, glossy texture that’s slightly more pliable than regular pasta. The touristy restaurant I went to served it in an elaborate (and eye-wateringly expensive!) meat raggu alongside a side of steamed vegetables, but locals simply dress it up with some butter, herbs, and cheese. 

• Obatzda: While more of a side than an actual dish, Obatzda can best be described as the local version of beer cheese. Instead of the Americanized cheddar-beer combination, however, Obatzda is made from ripe camembert or brie cheese, high-quality butter, beer, chopped onions, pepper, salt, caraway seeds, and paprika. Bars and breweries usually serve Obatzda alongside freshly baked pretzels. 

• Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut’s global popularity means that it needs no introduction, but as you can imagine, nothing compares to the taste of authentic German fermented cabbage. Locals will tell you that there’s no better pairing than a big heaping of sauerkraut on a Bratwurst sausage, another classic dish that consists of meats like veal or pork. 

If you’re interested in the local culture, I would strongly suggest that you visit Munich from late November through Christmas. I’ve worked remotely from several European cities but very few of them celebrated Christmas with such pomp. Indeed, Munich is legendary for its Christmas Markets filled with holiday music, evergreen boughs, and a delightful medley of multi-colored lights. 

The local Christmas extravaganza is also reflected through the many handcrafted products that you can buy at the market, including baubles and other ornaments, wooden toys, peppermint candy canes, and gingerbread slices. Several Christmas Markets also hold Gingerbread House Decorating contests for kids. My personal favorite Christmas Market in Munich are Marienplatz, Rindermarkt, and the one that’s annually hosted in the Residenz’s courtyard. 

In September, you’ll be privy to the famous Oktoberfest festival, which is considered the largest beer tribute in the entire world. First started by King Ludwik I all the way back in 1810, Oktoberfest now spans across eighteen days. Deeply ingrained in the local culture, this festival can attract up to six million visitors each year and boasts beer floats and wagons, folkloric costumes, street dancing, musical performances, amusement rides, as well as games. 

Digital nomads who can’t make it to Oktoberfest in September can also check out Frühlingsfest, another beer festival that’s normally held from late April to early May. While it’s not as showy as Oktoberfest, this event involves fancy fairs with plenty of food and beer stalls as well as firework shows in the evenings. 

Munich Nightlife

Whether or not you’re a night owl, I would highly recommend checking out the local scene after dark. Indeed, the thing about Munich is that it transforms into an entirely different place at night thanks to its eclectic blend of bars, pubs, restaurants, and nightclubs. Beer’s always plentiful in Munich which may explain why you’ll see so many locals and foreigners alike waltzing from bar to bar until the early hours of the morning. 

Here are some of the best spots that you may wish to check out after dark in Munich: 

Hoffbrauhaus

Yes, it’s always busy. It’s also loud and exceptionally touristy. Yet, this is the one place that you just can’t miss while in Munich. On select nights, you’ll even be treated to live Bavarian entertainment, something that, in my opinion, is best enjoyed with a giant pretzel washed down by an even bigger pint of beer. 

I feel obligated to point out that at the Hofbraeuhaus, the standard serving size, equals to a liter, so with each ‘pint’ that you order, you’re basically chugging back a whole liter of beer! To add to the overall ambiance of the place, waiters are dressed in classic Bavarian outfits. Located on Platzl 9, this three-floor bar is open every day from 21:00 to 23:30. 

Cole & Porter Bar

What I liked the most about Cole & Porter Bar was its charming courtyard setting that’s absolutely perfect for a balmy summer’s evening with live jazz music in the background. Inside, the bar has a refined layout and while their cocktails are certainly on the more expensive side, they’re among the best drinks I had in Munich. 

Their food menu changes weekly so you may wish to check out what they’re serving before going. Additionally, Cole & Porter Bar often hosts events with international or local DJs in attendance. Located right in Munich’s bustling city center, this bar is open from 10:00 to 1:00 in the morning on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Mondays, and 10:00 to 4:00 in the morning on Fridays and Saturdays. 

Bahnwärter Thiel

This has to be one of the most unusual nightspots I’ve ever seen in any country I’ve ever been to. Yet, this was the one place that I kept returning to virtually every Friday evening during my time in Munich. While not exactly a nightclub, Bahnwärter Thiel can best be described as an outdoor space surrounded by graffiti-laden shipping containers and abandoned train carriages. There’s even an old crane that locals decorated with disco balls. 

On most nights, this spot offers a wide range of activities that go on until the early hours of the morning, including live music, poetry slams, film nights, karaoke parties, and even outdoor concerts. Friday evenings are normally dedicated to clubbing so makeshift dance floors usually pop up right there in the open air.

Things to do in Munich

As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Munich certainly provides a wide range of attractions that you can explore on your days off. Because the city is steeped in history, several of these attractions date back to many centuries ago. Digital nomads who are into more outdoorsy activities can also venture to the outskirts of the city where they’ll find scenic hiking trails right by the foot of the mountains. If you’re watching those purse strings, fret not: the city has an abundance of attractions, parks, and other sights that you can explore without spending a cent. 

Below are just a few of my favorite things to do in Munich: 

• Hofbräuhaus Brewery

  Given that Germany is the beer capital of the world, it would be inconceivable to visit the city and not take a tour of the Hofbräuhaus Brewery. Undoubtedly the most popular brewery in Munich, Hofbräuhaus has been serving up the best beer in the country since 1589. Open daily from 9:00 to midnight, this brewery offers guided tours during which you will learn about the raw materials used as well as beer brewing and processing. Tours usually last between 60 and 90 minutes and the price is €15 per person. During your tour, you’ll also get to explore the formation cellar as well as the brewhouse. After the tour, we were taken to a large dining room where we got to sample some of their best brews. To my surprise, we were even served snacks such as Weißwürsten (white German sausages) and Leberkäse, which is basically the local version of an American meatloaf. The brewery also has an on-site and online beer shop.

• English Garden

  Trust me when I say that after working all day, there’s nothing like enjoying an invigorating afternoon stroll in Munich’s iconic English Garden. A local friend told me that this is actually the largest park in all of Germany. Spanning across 910 acres, the English Garden even has plenty of streams and even an artificial lake. I was also told that it was originally built as a military garden, although today it’s an absolute hot spot among cyclists, joggers, and hikers. While touring the garden, be sure to check out the Monopteros Temple, a legendary landmark built in classic Grecian style. Because of its elevated position on a man-made hill, this temple provides a bird’s eye view of the city skyline. I can assure you that this is quite a sight to behold at sunset when the entire park is leeched pinkish gold by the sun as it slowly dips beneath the horizon. The park additionally houses a 25-meter tall Chinese-style pagoda known as Chinesischen Turm. Over there, you’ll find plenty of seating area for tucking into an Al Fresco meal. Other points of interest in the English Garden include a Japanese garden, complete with an old-fashioned teahouse and the Bavarian National Museum which showcases prehistoric relics.  Not far from the English Garden is found the Eisbach River, which is where you’ll find locals indulging in river surfing, one of Munich’s most popular sports. To be honest, I didn’t even know that one could surf on a river until I witnessed it for myself. Expert surfers actually ride the waves all the way to Downtown Munich and believe me when I say that this spectacle is far more impressive than it sounds. Quick word of caution though: river surfing apparently demands far more skill and expertise than regular sea surfing, so I wouldn’t recommend that you attempt it unless you’ve got experience in that area.

• Cuvilliés Theatre

  Whether or not you’re interested in plays, I would absolutely recommend a visit to the historic Cuvilliés Theatre which is something of a landmark in Munich. Located in east Munich, this Rococo theater dates all the way back to 1755 and is especially acclaimed for its stunning woodwork, including tiers of opulent boxes. Its spectacular architecture boasts the ideal setting for operas and plays such as Idomeneo by Mozart. During the tour, we were informed that this particular opera actually debuted right there in Cuvilliés. In fact, this theater still features Idomeneo and other Baroque operas on select evenings. Now, while you can visit the theatre on its own, I would suggest that you get a combined ticket that will also allow you to explore the many museums at the Residenz, especially if you would like to soak up the local culture. Some of the Residenz’s primary attractions include, but are not limited to, the Munich Residence, Treasury, Bronze Halls, Court Church of All Saints, and the ten courtyards. Tickets cost €9 for the Residence Museum, €9 for the Treasury, and €5 for the Theatre. Digital nomads traveling on a budget will be glad to know that there’s no entry fee for the Courtyards and Fountain – although someone did try to scam us by posing as a uniformed agent, but he was quickly apprehended by the Residenz’s security guard. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to buy tickets online, but you can do so in cash or card directly at the on-site cash desk.

• Herrenchiemsee Island

  Okay, this is not technically in the city per se, but I can assure you that it’s absolutely worth a visit. Herrenchiemsee Island lies just over an hour from Munich and saying that it’s a nature lover’s dream come true is no exaggeration. Indeed, this site is fringed by the glorious Bavarian countryside and is especially known for housing some of the most spectacular castles in Europe. Most guided tours start with a boat trip across Lake Chiemsee. Once you reach the other shore, you can also explore the three ancient castles that were once owned by King Ludwig II. I do have to point out that hiking around the island can take up to four hours, and that’s not including the castle tours. As such, it’s important to wear adequate hiking shoes and bring along some refreshments. Alternatively, you can also check out Schlosswirtschaft Herrenchiemsee Café which offers terrace seating for soaking up the sights over a traditional German feast.

• Documentation Centre

  Granted, this is not an attraction, and it was easily one of my most sobering experiences in Munich. The building itself has a pretty grim architecture, with a dark grey exterior and prison-like bars. This museum was established as a memorial of remembrance to the countless people who lost their lives during the Nazi dictatorship. During our tour, we were told that the Documentation Centre was actually erected right on a former Nazi headquarter. We didn’t quite grasp the significance of the Documentation Centre’s location until we reached the third floor, where there’s a large projection screen displaying Nazi marches and rallies across Königsplatz Square. Look out of the window next to the screen and you’ll see the exact same Square right next to the Centre.  There’s no admission fee to enter the Documentation Centre. Be sure to stop by the information desk to grab an audio guide, also free of charge. Located on Max-Mannheimer-Platz 1, this site is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 19:00.

Best Time to Visit Munich

Given its proximity to the Alps, Munich is prone to flood risks brought on by more concentrated volumes of rainfall. With a continental climate, Munich also has mild to warm summers and very cold winters. In fact, it’s commonly referred to as the coldest city in all of Germany so be sure to pack some warm clothing, even if you’re going there in the summer. 

Personally, my favorite time to visit Germany is from March to May. Not only is the weather pleasantly warm but the city is devoid of the usual touristy crowds since summer hasn’t peaked yet. However, if you would like to partake in the iconic Oktoberfest, you may wish to bring a thick coat with you since the average temperature between September and October lingers at around 13 degrees Celsius during the day and five degrees at night. 

Winter in Munich stretches from December to February and during that time, temperatures can plummet down to -25 degrees Celsius. If you don’t mind braving the Bavarian winter, however, you’ll find that the city offers plenty of discounts for accommodation and various attractions. For example, the Prinzregentenstadion flares to life with an open-air skating rink where you can skate to your heart’s content with lively music playing in the background. Of course, it would be unfathomable to visit Munich in the winter and not check out one of the many Christmas markets, some of which pop up as early as the last week of November. 

The city’s highest tourist season is at the peak of summer (between June and August). While the weather is significantly warmer then, it doesn’t get overly uncomfortable or humid with the thermostat hovering between 23 and 30 degrees Celsius. Occasionally, it can go up to 36 degrees. However, you should brace yourself for endless queues and plenty of jostling in crowded places like markets. In my experience, it’s quite hard to land last-minute accommodation in summer, so I would strongly suggest that you make your reservations in advance.

Munich for Families

One of the best family-friendly destinations in Western Europe, Munich easily caters to the little ones and as such, you’ll find plenty of baby formula and other kid-related products virtually everywhere. I also noticed that the roads were well-paved and stroller friendly. 

In terms of education, Munich offers three types of schooling based on the child’s academic capacities. While the city has plenty of public schools, it’s important to know that in most cases, lessons are conducted in German. Therefore, you may wish to consider sending your child to English-speaking schools such as St. George’s – The British International School Munich, International Bilingual School Munich, and Munich International School. You’ll also find preschools and kindergartens such as the International Montessori Preschool and the Montessori Preschool Kindergarten.

Primarily aimed at expat students, international schools in Munich tend to offer more extra-curricular activities than public establishments. Most follow the International Baccalaureate curriculum, but you’ll also find some schools that follow the U.S or U.K curricula. I do wish to point out that as excellent as they are, international schools are known for being extremely expensive. 

As far as entertainment is concerned, Munich provides a plethora of things to do during the weekend. For instance, kids and adults alike will undoubtedly appreciate a trip to Viktualienmarkt which is one of the oldest open-air farmers’ markets in the city. In fact, we were told that it dates all the way back to the early 1800s. With live music and a bustling atmosphere, this market has stalls decorated with plump sausage garlands, fresh cheeses, apple strudels, giant pretzels, and freshly squeezed juices. 

Right next to it is found a Beer Garden which, contrary to popular belief, is very family friendly. Over there, you’ll find a large playground where the kids can play while parents sip on a traditional Bavarian beer. Along with the one located next to Viktualienmarkt, there are around 200 other beer gardens in the city. 

Another attraction that children will appreciate is the Hellabrunn Zoo which is found right by the Isar River. What I liked the most about this particular attraction is that most enclosures rely on moats instead of cages, providing a humane and more interactive experience. This zoo is open every day from 9:00 to 17:00. Tickets cost € 15 for adults and € 6 for children (four –14 years), but you can also get special family packages at a reduced rate.

Living in Munich

Munich Transportation

If you ask me, the best way to explore Munich is on foot. The city is highly walkable with secure sidewalks and a neat network of roads. When you get tired, however, rest assured that Munich does have an excellent public transportation system operated by the MVV, which is the local transport authority. Digital nomads and expats are also offered the choice of various ticketing options, including monthly, weekly, daily, group, and single tickets. These can easily be purchased at any S-Bahn (city rapid railway) or U-Bahn (underground railway) in the city. 

Taxis

I must say that Munich was the one city where I actually enjoyed taking taxis. Most drivers that I encountered were polite and honest so there were none of the usual scams such as switching off the meter or taking me on impossibly long detours just to increase the rate. On the contrary, I even met a lovely taxi driver who insisted on returning me part of my money when I accidentally mixed up the notes and over-tipped. 

Taxis are easily identifiable by their beige bodies as well as black and yellow overhead sign. There are taxi signs all over Munich, but you can easily hail one on the street as well. While the fare varies, there’s usually a basic fee of €4.70 and the rate per kilometer is around €2.00. 

Ride hailing services such as Uber are also available at the airport and in my opinion, this is the less expensive way to travel from the airport to the city center without having to brave the crowds on the bus or train.  

Bus and Tram

What I liked about the local bus network is that it makes it quite easy to explore outskirts that aren’t serviced by the U-Bahn and S-Bahn. While some bus routes do operate 24 hours per day, they don’t run as regularly as the train so you may wish to consider the latter if you’ve got important appointments. You can check the bus routes and buy tickets on the official website. Special fares are available for airport trips. 

Alternatively, digital nomads can also consider traveling by tram. There are around 13 trams that run during the day and four that continuously assure night service. Depending on the route, trams in Munich normally operate every 10 to 30 minutes. Locals tend to favor the tram for shorter distances but rest assured that they do cover a wide portion of Munich. 

Car rental

Given the excellent road infrastructure in Munich, I personally didn’t have any hassle with getting around Munich by car. The one thing you do need to remember is that cars drive on the right and overtake on the left. Renting a car in the city will set you back €25 per day in low season and between €30 to €45 in high season. 

Digital nomads who are planning on getting around by car should also bear in mind that the city has two distinguishing road networks: The Autobahn which is a straightforward network of highways with multiple lanes that connect Munich to cities such as Stuttgart, Salzburg, and the likes. There’s also the Mittlerer Ring which surrounds the city center with high-capacity roads in order to lessen traffic. 

Of course, in true big-city fashion, you can expect parking to be near impossible to find. If you do happen to find a decent parking spot, you’ll find that the fees can be shockingly expensive. 

Trains

Munich has a highly efficient network of trains in both the U-Bahn and the S-Bahn. The difference is that U-Bahn trains operate underground while the S-Bahn cover the overground suburban areas. Locals normally take the train to commute to work every day because they’re highly reliable, not to mention fast. Additionally, Munich’s trains cover virtually every corner of the city and tickets can be purchased online. While the exact rate obviously varies according to your route, you can expect to spend between €7 and €12 for a daily pass.

Fitness and Health

Given its reputation as the beer capital of the world, I must admit that I was quite surprised by the fitness culture that permeates throughout the city. Despite their fondness for massive beer pints, locals are extremely health conscious, so you’ll see plenty of vegan, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and reduced fat meals on most menus. 

During spring and summer, you’ll often see people jogging on the sidewalk or exploring the many hiking trails around the city. When the weather is cold, however, you may wish to check out one of the city’s gyms or fitness centers. For instance, Fitnessstudio Munichgym features personal coaching, group classes, as well as a wide range of equipment. Open 9:00 to 23:00 on most weekdays, this gym offers an affordable package at €39 per month.

My personal favorite fitness center in the city, Kickletics is found on Gabelsbergerstraße 75. This boutique gym is open from 6:00 to 22:00 on weekdays and 9:00 to 21:00 on the weekend. Patrons will be able to participate in various HIT-training classes including kickboxing, kettle weights, battle ropes, jump box and the likes. Nutrition coaching is also provided. What I like the most about this fitness center is that it provides a free trial so you can decide whether you want to commit to a membership plan. 

Like virtually elsewhere in Europe, football has a cult-like status in Munich which is why you’ll probably see a football field in just about every neighborhood. In the afternoon, it’s not uncommon to see locals indulging in an impromptu game at the park. Very often, they’ll allow other people to join in so, this may be your chance to stay fit while making new friends in the city.

Munich People

Okay, I’ll level with you: the people in Munich can appear to be cold and rude at times. If you’re used to other European countries like Spain or Italy, you’ll no doubt be surprised by the lack of smiles or greetings in the city. After having spent several months in Spain where everyone grins at everyone, I have to admit that I was a bit miffed by the Germans’ attitude on my first day in Munich. 

However, it didn’t take me long to realize that as impersonal as they may seem at times, the people in Munich are exceptionally kind-hearted and helpful. Yes, they’re not going to beam at every stranger they meet and most of them are notoriously private, but I found out that once you get to know them, they’re actually very friendly. Germans are known for being polite and orderly, and Munich’s no exception. In fact, you’ll quickly realize that the famous German motto of “Ordnung muss sein” (there must be order) is still very much present in the city. 

Family ties and values are extremely important to locals which is why most adults try to make it back to their parents’ home for a traditional Sunday dinner. However, as close as relatives are in Munich, children are also encouraged to become independent from a young age. While most children move out once they turn eighteen, some even move out at seventeen if they can financially sustain themselves. Families in Munich are usually nuclear since grandparents live separately from the mother, father, and kids. 

Another thing that you may notice about locals is that they can be very direct. For example, if you’re offered food/drinks that you decline (out of politeness) the first time, they will not ask you again since nearly everything is taken at face value. Therefore, I quickly learned that while in Munich, it’s best to swap formalities for straightforwardness. By the same token, you may notice that Germans don’t really like to indulge in small talk. Instead, they would rather engage you in more meaningful or constructive conversation. Strangers or acquaintances usually address each other using their title (Frau for women/ Herr for men) and last name. Unlike elsewhere in Europe, it’s considered impolite to address strangers by their first name unless invited to do so. 

Digital nomads who are planning on attending business or networking events in Munich should also bear in mind that locals are very stringent about Pünktlichkeit (strict punctuality). I noticed that this word is something of a national motto in the business world, so much so that just being a mere five minutes late can be an absolute dealbreaker. 

In Munich, people greet each other by a handshake with eye contact. Close friends and acquaintances can kiss each other on the cheek or engage in a brief hug. As far as verbal greetings are concerned, you can say ‘Guten Tag’ to say Good Day or ‘Hallo’ for Hello. Other common phrases that you may wish to learn before flying to Munich include: 

Sprechen Sie Englisch?:  Do you speak English?

Wie geht es dir?:  How are you?

Gut, danke: Fine, thank you

Danke: Thank you

Auf Wiedersehen: Goodbye

Munich Insurance and Medical Care

All German residents and citizens are legally obligated to have health insurance, a regulation that also extends to foreigners. Therefore, when applying for a German visa, you will be asked to show proof of insurance. Expats and digital nomads living and working in the country will also be able to benefit from subsidized state healthcare. 

The good news is that Germany is often hailed for offering some of the best healthcare facilities in the world. In fact, the 2018 Euro Health Consumer Index placed Germany in 12th place due to its excellent level of care. The one thing that I didn’t quite like about the local healthcare system as the lack of specialist hospitals. Consequently, some patients may need to be transferred to a neighboring country. 

In my experience, there’s not a lot of difference between private and public hospitals in Munich. Private hospitals do have less waiting time and their ambulatory services are reputed for being extremely reliable and quick. On the flip side, private healthcare in Munich is far more expensive. Many public hospitals are run by the voluntary regional and local authorities. You’ll also find some hospitals that are run by the German Red Cross or by churches. I do need to point out that both private and public doctors can speak basic English, so the language barrier wasn’t an issue for me. 

Emergency numbers in Munich are: 

• Emergency Medical services: 112
• Police: 110 
• Fire Brigade: 112
• Poison Emergency: 089-19240

In Munich, pharmacies are locally known as Apotheke and prescriptions are called Rezept. While there are plenty of Apothekes throughout the city (several open 24/7), it’s good to know that there are very strict laws about dispensing medication in Germany. It will be near impossible to get antibiotics, sleep aids, psychiatric medication, and even certain anti-allergy drugs without a doctor’s note so be sure to plan accordingly.

Make sure you are fully covered by reading our full Digital Nomad Travel Insurance guide.

Jobs in Munich

Unlike other German cities like Cologne, it can be quite difficult to land a local job in Munich due to the ferocious job market. Since the city has plenty of specialized academic institutions, employers usually hire locals. 

Now, while it’s certainly hard to find a job in Munich, it doesn’t mean that it’s impossible. The city is home to plenty of international headquarters such as BMW, Linde, Amazon, Microsoft, Osram, among others, so you can always try your luck by applying to one of these companies. Additionally, Munich has a well-established publishing and media sector that’s often on the lookout for new additions, especially if you’re well versed in Business English. 

By the same token, English teachers are usually in demand in the city, especially in the private schooling sector. It’s good to know that while you don’t necessarily need a teaching certification or college degree to teach English in Germany, your chances of getting snapped up significantly improve if you have these qualifications. English teachers usually earn between € 2,200 and € 4,200 per month. Digital nomads who have a master’s degree or a PhD can even apply for the position of English Professor in one of the city’s many colleges or universities. 

Of course, it goes without saying that it’s always best to brush up on your German speaking skills if you’re planning on working in the city. When job hunting in Munich, you can always check out websites such as English Jobs Germany, Stellenangebote, MuenchenerJobs, Totaljobs, and Glassdoor.

Check out our Digital Nomads Jobs Postings to find the best jobs available for Digital Nomads.