Munich Airport Parking: Your Complete English Guide

Munich Airport (MUC), officially known as Franz Josef Strauss Airport, is Germany's second-largest airport and a major European hub. Whether you're a business traveler, tourist, or local resident, finding the right parking solution is essential for a stress-free journey. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about parking at Munich Airport.

Overview: Parking Options at Munich Airport

Munich Airport offers several parking solutions to suit different needs and budgets:

• Official Airport Parking Garages (P1-P26): Located directly at the terminals, offering maximum convenience but at premium prices. Perfect for short stays and business trips.
• Shuttle Parking Lots: Off-site parking facilities with free shuttle service to the terminal. Significantly cheaper than official garages with only 5-10 minutes additional travel time.
• Valet Parking Service: The ultimate convenience – hand over your car directly at the terminal and receive it back upon return. Ideal for stress-free travel.
• Park & Ride (P+R): Free parking at suburban S-Bahn stations with public transport connection to the airport. Budget-friendly but time-consuming.

Munich Airport Parking Prices

Parking rates at Munich Airport vary considerably based on the parking type and duration. Here's an overview of average costs:

Official Airport Parking Garages

• 1 Hour: approx. €4-5
• 1 Day: approx. €35-45
• 1 Week: approx. €150-200
• 2 Weeks: approx. €250-350

Shuttle Parking (e.g., Parkmeister)

• 1 Day: approx. €6-8
• 1 Week: approx. €40-55
• 2 Weeks: approx. €70-90

Money-Saving Tip: For longer trips, shuttle parking lots can save you up to 60-70% compared to official parking garages!

Terminal Information

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 serves Star Alliance member airlines and other partners. Associated parking garages include P1, P2, P3, P4, and P5. The terminal is well-connected and offers all essential services. Walking distance from the closest parking garage (P1) is approximately 2-5 minutes.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is the modern Lufthansa terminal featuring state-of-the-art facilities. Parking garages P20, P21, P22, and P26 are located in immediate proximity. This terminal is known for its efficiency and passenger comfort, with the closest parking (P20) just 1-3 minutes walk away.

Important: Always check which terminal your airline uses before booking parking. Some airlines operate from both terminals depending on the destination.

How to Get to Munich Airport

Airport Address for GPS Navigation

Driving Directions

• From Munich City Center: Take the A92 motorway towards Airport (approx. 40 km, 35-45 minutes)
• From North (Landshut): A92 towards Munich, exit "Flughafen München"
• From South (Alps/Austria): A8 towards Munich, then A99 and A92 to Airport
• From West (Augsburg): A8 towards Munich, then A99 (North) and A92 to Airport

Traffic Tip: During rush hours (Mon-Fri 7-9 AM and 4-7 PM), allow extra time for potential delays. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights.

Which Parking Option is Right for You?

For Short Trips (1-3 Days)

For brief stays, the official parking garages near the terminals are a good choice. While more expensive, they offer maximum convenience and time savings. The premium parking garages P20 and P41 are particularly convenient with covered walkways to the terminals.

For Vacation Travel (1-2 Weeks)

For longer vacation trips, shuttle parking lots are definitely worthwhile. The cost savings are substantial, and the few extra minutes of travel time are negligible for a one or two-week trip. Providers like Parkmeister offer secure, monitored parking facilities for added peace of mind.

For Business Travelers

When time is money, valet parking is the best option. Hand over your car directly at the terminal and skip the hassle of finding a parking space and walking from the garage. Upon return, your vehicle is already waiting at the terminal – maximum time efficiency and convenience.

Important Tips for Stress-Free Parking

• Book in Advance: Online bookings are typically 20-30% cheaper than on-site rates. Plus, you guarantee yourself a parking space, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Compare Prices: Different providers offer varying rates. A quick price comparison can save you significant money, especially for longer stays.
• Read Reviews: Check customer reviews to assess the quality and reliability of the parking provider before booking.
• Allow Extra Time: For shuttle parking, plan an additional 15-20 minutes for the transfer to the terminal.
• Remove Valuables: Don't leave valuable items visible in your car, even in monitored parking areas.
• Take Photos: Photograph your parking location (garage number, level, space number) to easily find your car upon return.
• Keep Your Ticket: Store your parking ticket or booking confirmation safely – you'll need it when you return.

Alternative Transportation Options

Not everyone wants to drive to the airport. Here are some alternatives to parking:

• S-Bahn (Suburban Train): Lines S1 and S8 connect Munich with the airport (approx. 45 minutes journey time). Trains run every 20 minutes during the day.
• Lufthansa Airport Bus: Direct connection from Munich Central Station to the airport (approx. 45 minutes). Comfortable and reliable.
• Taxi or Ride-Sharing: Convenient but expensive – expect to pay €60-80 from the city center.
• Private Transfer Service: Pre-booked transfers offer comfort at fair prices, often cheaper than taxis.

Security and Safety

Both official parking garages and reputable shuttle parking providers maintain high security standards:

• 24/7 video surveillance in all parking areas
• Well-lit facilities with security patrols
• Fenced and gated parking lots (especially shuttle parking)
• Regular inspections and maintenance
• Insurance coverage for your vehicle

When choosing a parking provider, look for certifications and positive customer reviews regarding security and reliability. Established providers like Parkmeister offer comprehensive insurance and security measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I park without a reservation?

The official airport parking garages accept spontaneous parking – however, at significantly higher rates than pre-booked spaces. For shuttle parking, advance booking is required to ensure availability and guarantee the discounted rate.

How far are the parking lots from the terminal?

Official parking garages are located directly at the terminals (0-5 minutes walking distance). Shuttle parking facilities are 5-15 km from the airport but provide free shuttle service that brings you to the terminal in approximately 10-15 minutes.

What if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

Most parking providers offer flexible cancellation policies. For official parking garages, you only pay for the actual parking time. Shuttle parking providers typically allow free cancellation up to 24 hours before arrival. Check the specific terms when booking.

Are the parking facilities suitable for large vehicles?

Yes, most parking options can accommodate SUVs and vans. However, some parking garages have height restrictions (typically 2.0-2.2 meters). If you have an oversized vehicle, check the specifications before booking or contact the provider directly.

Conclusion: Choose the Best Parking for Your Needs

Parking at Munich Airport doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. For most travelers, shuttle parking offers the best value for money: significantly cheaper than official garages, secure, and comfortable with direct transfer to the terminal.

Business travelers who value maximum time efficiency should consider valet parking. Short-term parkers can use the convenient terminal garages. Whichever option you choose, booking in advance ensures the best rates and a stress-free start to your journey.

For more detailed information, check our German-language guides on Parken am Flughafen München (general parking guide), Terminal 1 parking, and Terminal 2 parking.