Frequently Asked Questions: Parking at Munich Airport

Planning your trip from Munich and have questions about airport parking? This comprehensive FAQ answers all important questions about parking spaces, prices, booking, security, and services at Munich Airport. Find the answer you're looking for quickly!

General Parking Questions

How much does parking at Munich Airport cost?

Parking costs vary significantly depending on the provider and duration. In the official parking garages, you pay approximately 35-45 per day, while shuttle parking costs only 6-8 per day. For a week of parking, prices range from approximately 150-200 (parking garage) to 40-55 (shuttle). You can find a detailed price comparison in our comparison guide.

Where can I find the cheapest parking at Munich Airport?

The cheapest parking options are external shuttle parking lots like Parkmeister. These are located 5-15 km from the airport and offer free shuttle service to the terminal. You save up to 60-70% compared to official parking garages. Online bookings are an additional 20-30% cheaper than on-site payments.

Can I park at the airport spontaneously without a booking?

In the official parking garages (P1-P26), you can park spontaneously at any time - however, at significantly higher prices than with advance bookings. For shuttle parking lots, online booking in advance is required as capacity is limited and shuttle service needs to be organized.

How far in advance should I book my parking spot?

We recommend booking as early as possible - ideally as soon as your flight is confirmed. Early bookers get the best prices and secure a guaranteed parking spot. Especially during holiday seasons (Easter, summer, Christmas), popular parking spots sell out quickly.

Booking and Cancellation

How does online booking work?

Booking is simple and takes only a few minutes:

• Enter travel dates (arrival and departure times)
• Select desired parking option (shuttle, valet, etc.)
• Provide vehicle details and contact information
• Pay online (securely via credit card or PayPal)
• Receive booking confirmation via email

The confirmation contains all important information including address, contact details, and instructions for arrival and departure.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?

Yes, most providers offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival. Many premium options also allow shorter-notice cancellations. Changes to travel dates (e.g., for flight rescheduling) can usually be made without problems. Check the specific cancellation terms when booking.

What happens if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

In case of flight cancellation or delay, contact your parking provider immediately. Most providers adjust your booking free of charge or refund the fee in case of cancellation. With official parking garages, you only pay for actual parking time, so there are no additional costs or refunds for delays.

Do I need to print something or is my smartphone enough?

The digital booking confirmation on your smartphone is sufficient. However, we recommend printing a copy or saving it as a screenshot in case your battery runs out. Also note down the provider's phone number for emergencies.

Arrival and Service

How does the shuttle service work?

With shuttle parking, the process works as follows:

• Outbound: Drive to the given parking lot address (not to the airport!)
• Check-in with staff, hand over vehicle
• Board the shuttle bus (usually waiting or arrives within minutes)
• Transfer to terminal in about 10-15 minutes
• Return: After landing, call the provided number
• Shuttle picks you up at the terminal (usually 10-15 minutes wait)
• Return to parking lot and pick up vehicle

How much time should I plan for the shuttle transfer?

Plan approximately 20-30 minutes in addition to your normal travel time. This includes: vehicle handover (5 min), waiting for shuttle (0-10 min), ride to terminal (10-15 min). On return: call, wait for shuttle (10-15 min), return ride (10-15 min).

How do I recognize the shuttle bus?

Shuttle buses are clearly marked with the parking provider's logo. Your booking confirmation usually includes photos or a description of the shuttle. Staff at the parking lot will also direct you. If unsure, just ask!

What is valet parking and how does it work?

Valet parking is the premium service for maximum convenience:

• You drive directly to the terminal (to the specified handover point, usually the Kiss & Fly zone)
• A driver awaits you there and takes your vehicle
• You walk directly to check-in - no parking search, no shuttle
• On return, call approximately 30 minutes before landing
• Your car is already waiting at the terminal when you arrive

Ideal for business travelers and anyone wanting maximum time savings and convenience.

Security and Vehicle Protection

Are the parking lots safe and guarded?

Yes, both official parking garages and reputable shuttle providers offer high security standards:

• 24/7 video surveillance
• Fenced and illuminated grounds
• Many providers with additional security personnel
• Insurance coverage for your vehicle
• Regular checks and patrols

More information about guarded parking can be found in our security guide.

What happens if my car is damaged?

Reputable parking providers have liability insurance covering vehicle damage. Upon handover, your car's condition is documented (often with photos). If you notice damage upon return, report it immediately on-site and document the damage photographically as well. The provider will then initiate damage settlement through their insurance.

Can I leave valuables in the car?

We generally advise against leaving valuable items visible in the vehicle, even in guarded parking lots. Take small valuables with you. If you must leave something in the car, store it out of sight in the trunk. Insurance typically does not cover valuables in the vehicle.

What about my winter tires or roof boxes?

Winter tires are no problem - your car is parked as is. For roof boxes, bike racks, or other attachments, please indicate this when booking as some parking garages have height restrictions (usually 2.0-2.2 meters). Shuttle parking lots usually have no height restrictions as they are open-air spaces.

Terminals and Navigation

Which terminal do I need for my flight?

This depends on your airline:

• Terminal 1: Star Alliance members (e.g., United, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines) and other airlines
• Terminal 2: Lufthansa and partners (Swiss, Austrian, Eurowings, etc.)

Check your flight confirmation or your airline's website. The airport website also offers a terminal search. Details on individual terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Can I switch between terminals?

Yes, the terminals are connected via the Munich Airport Center (MAC). The two terminals are approximately 600 meters apart, and the walk takes about 10-15 minutes. There's also a free shuttle bus between terminals running every 15-20 minutes.

How do I find my car in the parking garage again?

Important tip: Take photos with your smartphone when parking:

• Photo of parking garage sign (e.g., "P20")
• Photo of floor (e.g., "Level 3")
• Photo of spot number or color marking
• Photo of nearby landmarks (columns, signage)

Large parking garages have thousands of spaces - without notes, the search is very tedious. With shuttle parking, your car is brought to you, so you don't have to search for it yourself.

Payment Methods and Prices

What payment methods are accepted?

For online bookings:

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• PayPal
• Instant bank transfer
• Some providers also accept invoice or direct debit

At official parking garages on-site: Debit card, credit card, often also cash (machines).

Are there discounts or vouchers?

Yes, many providers regularly offer promotional discounts:

• Early booker discounts (up to 30%)
• Newsletter vouchers (5-15% discount)
• Loyalty rewards for regular customers
• Seasonal promotions (e.g., Black Friday, Christmas)

Also use a price comparison to find the best deals.

Is long-term parking worth it?

Yes! Long-term parking (from 7 days) comes with special rates that are significantly cheaper than daily prices. The longer you park, the more you save per day. With some providers, the daily rate drops below 5 for bookings over 14 days.

Special Situations

Can I park with an electric vehicle?

Yes, many parking garages at Munich Airport offer EV charging stations. These are mainly located in parking garages P20 (Terminal 2) and P41. Charging may incur fees. If you need a charging station, reserve early and inquire about charging costs. Some shuttle parking lots also offer EV charging stations.

Are there motorcycle parking spots?

Yes, official parking garages have special motorcycle spaces, which are often cheaper than car spaces. These are usually on lower levels. For shuttle parking, inquire about motorcycle parking in advance as not all providers are equipped for this.

What do I do if I've lost my parking ticket?

In official parking garages: Report to the exit via intercom. Staff will help you, but you usually have to pay the maximum rate. For pre-booked shuttle parking: Show your booking confirmation (digital or printed) - you don't need a parking ticket.

More Helpful Tips

Is there free parking at Munich Airport?

There is no free parking directly at the airport. Kiss & Fly zones (short-term parking for drop-off/pick-up) are limited to 10-15 minutes. Free long-term parking is only available at distant P+R parking lots with S-Bahn connection (about 45 min to the airport). This is only worthwhile for very long trips if you have time.

What alternatives to parking are there?

If parking is too expensive or inconvenient, there are several alternatives:

• S-Bahn S1/S8 from city center (45 min, about 12)
• Lufthansa Airport Bus (45 min, about 11)
• Taxi or Uber (60-80 from center)
• Private transfer service
• Get dropped off by friends/family

Conclusion: Well-Informed for a Stress-Free Travel Start

With this FAQ, you're perfectly prepared for your trip from Munich. The most important points summarized:

• Early online booking saves money and ensures availability
• Shuttle parking is the cheapest option with high quality
• Valet parking offers maximum comfort for business travelers
• All reputable parking lots are safe and insured
• Leave on time and plan buffer time
• Photograph parking spot to find it quickly upon return

Have more questions? Find more helpful information in our guides on general parking at Munich Airport, parking tips and experience reports from other travelers.