Munich in September

May through October gives you the best weather and outdoor beer garden season. July and August are peak tourist months — expect crowds at Neuschwanstein and higher hotel prices. But the city comes alive in summer. September hits the sweet spot: Oktoberfest energy without the chaos, perfect weather for walking, and the museums are less crowded. October can be gorgeous if you luck out with warm days, plus you'll catch the tail end of Oktoberfest. Winter has its charm — Christmas markets from late November through December are magical, not just marketing hype. The Christkindlmärkte at Marienplatz and Schwabing are the most atmospheric. January and February are cold and gray, but hotel prices drop 40% and you'll have the museums to yourself. Spring arrives late — April can still be chilly and rainy.