First week checklist Munich 2026

I'm Liam O'Sullivan, 29, a marketing specialist moving to Munich from Dublin for a new job opportunity. I’m excited about this transition and eager to embrace the Bavarian culture. Here’s a snapshot of my relocation journey:

Upon landing in Munich, the excitement can be overwhelming. I arrived at Munich Airport, which is well-connected to the city center via the S-Bahn (suburban train). My first step was to purchase a Munich public transport pass, which offers unlimited travel within the city for a set period. This was crucial for my mobility as I started my new life in this vibrant city.

One of the first tasks on my checklist was to set up a local bank account. I visited a nearby branch of Deutsche Bank, where I was greeted by friendly staff. They required my passport, proof of address (which I obtained from my temporary accommodation), and my employment contract. Setting up my account took about an hour, and I left with a debit card that would make my life much easier.

In Germany, having health insurance is mandatory. I opted for a public health insurance plan, which I arranged through Techniker Krankenkasse. I made an appointment and brought necessary documents, including my ID and proof of income. The process was straightforward, and I was relieved to have this essential aspect of my relocation sorted within my first few days.

Within the first week, I needed to register my new address at the local Bürgeramt (citizen's office). I made an appointment online and brought my rental agreement and ID. The registration process was quick, taking about 30 minutes. This step was crucial for getting my residence permit and other local services.

To stay connected, I purchased a local SIM card from a nearby Vodafone store. The staff helped me choose a plan that suited my needs, and I was able to keep my number while enjoying local rates. This made communication with my new colleagues and friends much easier.

Munich's public transport system is efficient and user-friendly. I spent some time familiarizing myself with the U-Bahn (subway), trams, and buses. I downloaded the MVV app, which provides real-time information and ticket purchasing options. This knowledge would be invaluable for my daily commute to work.

I took a stroll around my new neighborhood to locate essential amenities like grocery stores, pharmacies, and cafes. I found a local supermarket, REWE, where I could buy groceries at reasonable prices. I also discovered a few charming cafes where I could unwind after a busy day.

To ease the transition, I joined a few local expat groups on social media. This helped me meet new people and discover events happening around the city. I attended a welcome meetup that was organized by the Munich Expat Meetup group, where I met fellow newcomers and shared experiences.

Many newcomers underestimate the importance of registering their address promptly. Failing to do so can lead to complications with local services and residency permits. Another common mistake is not exploring public transport options early on, which can make commuting more stressful than necessary.

In my first week, I tracked my expenses to get a sense of living costs. Here’s a breakdown:

• Public transport pass: €35
• Bank account fees: €0 (first month free)
• Health insurance: €150
• Groceries: €80
• SIM card: €25
• Dining out: €60

Total: €350. This helped me understand my budget better and plan for the upcoming months.