Munich Airport Terminals
Munich Airport (MUC) is one of Europe’s leading aviation hubs, renowned for its efficiency, amenities, and passenger experience. The airport consists of two main terminals—Terminal 1 and Terminal 2—each with its own unique features, history, and services.
Terminal 1
Introduction and History
Terminal 1, inaugurated in 1992, is the older of the two terminals and primarily serves airlines belonging to the oneworld and SkyTeam alliances, as well as most non-affiliated carriers. Key airlines operating from Terminal 1 include Air France, British Airways, KLM, Qatar Airways, American Airlines, Delta, Emirates, easyJet, TUIfly, and Condor. The terminal is divided into six modules: A, B, C, D, E, and F. Modules A-D handle both departures and arrivals, module E is dedicated to arrivals, and module F is reserved for high-security flights, such as those to and from Israel. Terminal 1 covers a substantial area, with the overall airport offering about 43,000 m² of shopping space.
Location
Terminal 1 is situated on the western side of the airport complex, directly connected to the Munich Airport Center (MAC) and the underground S-Bahn station, facilitating easy access to public transport and parking
Levels and Layout
- Level 02: S-Bahn train station.
- Level 03: Passenger transport system connecting modules.
- Level 04: Main level for check-in, security, arrivals, customs, and most restaurants and shops (street level).
- Level 05: Used for connecting flights and lounges
Each module is designed as a self-contained sub-terminal, making navigation straightforward despite the terminal’s size. However, note that not all flights depart from the same module as their check-in area, so always check your boarding pass for gate information3.
Services
Terminal 1 offers a comprehensive range of passenger services, including:
- Information desks
- Washrooms and showers
- Elevators and stairs
- Baggage claim and customs
- Lounges
- Baby changing rooms
- Medical center (AirportClinic M)
- Prayer rooms and chapels
- Duty-free shops
- Pharmacies
- Banks and ATMs
- Tax refund counters
Restaurants and Shops
Terminal 1 boasts a wide variety of dining options, from Bavarian pubs to international fast-food chains. Notable choices include Hofbräu Bistro (module D), McDonald’s (in the MAC), and Mionetto Bar (module C). Shopping is equally diverse, with duty-free outlets, boutiques, souvenir stores, and travel goods shops. The terminal’s proximity to the MAC expands the range of available shops and eateries
Tips for Terminal 1 Users
- Allow extra time for walking between modules, as distances can be significant, especially during ongoing renovations in areas 1A and 1B (expected until 2025)
- If you need to transfer between terminals, the walk through the MAC takes about 10 minutes
Terminal 1 detailed map
Terminal 2
Introduction and History
Terminal 2, opened in 2003, was developed in partnership with Lufthansa and is primarily used by Lufthansa, Star Alliance members, and their partners, including Air Canada, United, Swiss, SAS, Singapore Airlines, and TAP. The terminal is known for its modern design, efficient passenger flow, and a satellite building (opened in 2016) that increases capacity and enhances amenities. Terminal 2 is especially favored by frequent flyers and business travelers due to its streamlined layout and premium services
Location
Terminal 2 is located on the eastern side of the airport, directly connected to the MAC and the S-Bahn station. It is easily accessible by car, train, and shuttle buses
Levels and Layout
- Level 03: Arrivals
- Level 04: Departures (Schengen flights)
- Level 05: Departures (non-Schengen flights)
- Satellite Building: Gates K and L, accessed via an underground passenger transport system (approx. 3 minutes from the main terminal)
Terminal 2 is organized into gates G and H in the main building, and gates K and L in the satellite. The efficient design allows for quick connections, with all amenities and services centrally located.
Services
Terminal 2 offers a wide array of services, including:
- Lufthansa Service Centers and baggage tracing
- Priority check-in for premium passengers
- Napcab sleeping cabins
- Recreation and play areas for children
- Showers (level 3 near gates G and H)
- Luggage storage (public area, level 3)
- Medical care (AirportClinic M)
- Prayer and meditation rooms
- Exclusive lounges: Lufthansa First Class, Senator, and Business lounges on multiple levels
Restaurants and Shops
Terminal 2 features an extensive selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars, including:
- Backstube Wünsche (bakery, level 3)
- Brioche Dorée (café, level 4)
- Dallmayr Bistro (gates G-H)
- dean&david (gates G-H)
- Seafood Sylt (gates G-H)
- Viktualien Stubn (gates K-L)
Shopping options are even more varied than in Terminal 1, with numerous duty-free shops, fashion boutiques, electronics stores, and souvenir outlets. Pharmacies are located both in the public area and after security
Terminal 2 detailed map
Tips for Terminal 2 Users
- TIP: If you have a layover, take advantage of the Napcab sleeping cabins for a private rest or quick nap
- TIP: Families can use the free play areas and “Kinderland” to keep children entertained
- TIP: The satellite building is reached via an automatic underground train—make sure to factor in the 3-minute ride when heading to gates K or L
Tips for All Passengers
- Always check your boarding pass for the correct terminal and gate, as walking distances can be considerable.
- If you need to transfer between terminals, use the MAC for a quick and convenient connection.
- Take advantage of the airport’s excellent public transport links (S1 and S8 S-Bahn trains run every 10 minutes to Munich city center)
- For longer layovers, explore the Visitors’ Park for unique attractions like a flight simulator and mini golf