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Munich might be best known for Oktoberfest, medieval charm, and snowy alpine escapes — but sometimes, even the best vacations come with an unexpected detour… like getting a sore throat, a dodgy stomach, or just feeling plain awful.
Getting sick in Munich is never on the itinerary — but it happens. And when it does, knowing what to do can make all the difference.
This guide gives you everything you need to feel calm, confident, and cared for: from finding English-speaking doctors in Munich and understanding how local pharmacies work to emergency numbers, travel insurance help, and how to avoid getting sick in the first place. Ready? Let’s get you back on your feet.
Understanding Munich’s Healthcare System
Germany has an excellent healthcare system. Whether you’re a backpacker with a cold or a family on holiday with a child who’s suddenly feverish, you’ll be in good hands — as long as you know where to go.
Public vs. Private Healthcare
- Public hospitals and clinics are high-quality, but they can be slow. If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC or GHIC), you can access care at a reduced cost.
- Private clinics are much faster, often offer English-speaking staff, and are better suited for short-term visitors. They may charge upfront, but if you have travel insurance, you’ll usually be reimbursed.
Emergency Medical Care in Munich
If something serious happens — a broken bone, allergic reaction, or sudden illness — here’s what to do.
Emergency Numbers
- 112 – General emergency number (ambulance, police, fire)
- 116 117 – After-hours medical help line (mostly in German)
- 110 – Police only
You can call 112 from any mobile or landline, even without a local SIM card.
Hospital or Clinic?
- Head to a hospital emergency department (Notaufnahme) for major injuries, severe allergic reactions, breathing difficulties, or anything urgent.
- For minor issues — colds, flu, stomach bugs, UTIs — a private clinic or GP will be faster and less stressful.
Pharmacies & Medication in Munich
Pharmacies in Germany are called Apotheken. They’re easy to spot — just look for the red “A” sign. You’ll find them all over Munich, including central spots like Marienplatz and Sendlinger Tor.
What You Can Get at a Pharmacy
- Cold and flu relief
- Painkillers (like paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Diarrhea and nausea treatments
- Allergy meds
- Insect bite creams and sunburn gel
- First aid supplies
Many German pharmacies keep medications behind the counter — so you’ll often need to speak with the pharmacist directly.
Need a Pharmacy Late at Night?
There’s always a Notdienst Apotheke (emergency pharmacy) open outside regular hours.
- Google “Notdienst Apotheke München” or “24-hour pharmacy Munich”
- Check outside any pharmacy — there will usually be a sign listing the closest open one
- Ask your hotel reception for help
What To Do If You Have Travel Insurance
If you’re traveling with insurance — great news. You’ll likely be covered for everything from a basic doctor’s visit to more serious care.
What’s Usually Covered
- Appointments with a GP or specialist
- Emergency room visits
- Meds
- Lab work or X-rays
- Ambulance rides (if medically necessary)
What You’ll Need for Reimbursement
- A medical report or letter from the doctor
- Receipts for everything — appointments, medications, scans
- Your policy number and provider’s claim form
- Proof of travel (boarding passes, booking confirmations, etc.)
Tip: Snap photos of all paperwork and save them in a cloud folder or email it to yourself — just in case.
Language Barriers
Most people in Munich — especially in tourism, hotels, and healthcare — speak at least some English. But it’s still handy to know a few local phrases, especially if you’re heading to a pharmacy or smaller clinic.
Helpful German Phrases
- “Ich bin krank.” – I’m sick
- “Ich brauche einen Arzt.” – I need a doctor
- “Ich habe Bauchschmerzen.” – I have stomach pain
- “Ich bin allergisch gegen…” – I’m allergic to…
- “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” – Do you speak English?
How To Avoid Getting Sick in Munich
While there’s no way to totally prevent illness, a few simple steps can help you stay well and enjoy more of your time in the city.
Common Travel Health Issues
- Jet lag
- Colds and coughs (especially in winter)
- Digestive problems from rich or unfamiliar foods
- Alcohol overindulgence (hello, Oktoberfest!)
- Slips or trips on icy streets or cobblestones
Tips to Stay Healthy
- Drink lots of water (especially if you’re indulging in beer or coffee)
- Wash or sanitize your hands regularly
- Dress in layers — Munich weather can change quickly
- Eat slowly when trying new dishes
- Rest when you need to — your body will thank you
For Pregnant Travelers & Those With Pre-Existing Conditions
Munich is a great place to visit if you’re pregnant or managing a medical condition — as long as you’re prepared.
What to Pack
- Enough medication for your whole trip
- A note from your doctor explaining your condition (translated if possible)
- Copies of doctor’s notes
- Your travel insurance details and emergency contact info
Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Munich
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to wander the streets of Munich hoping someone at a clinic speaks English. Air Doctor connects you with trusted, local doctors in just a few taps.
With Air Doctor, you can:
- Choose an English-speaking doctor near you
- Book online for in-person or video visits
- Filter by specialty, gender, or availability
- Pay upfront and receive an insurance-friendly receipt
What To Do If You Need More Support
Beyond medical care, your embassy or consulate can also help. They can:
- Recommend reliable clinics
- Help replace lost doctor’s notes
- Contact family or your insurer in case of emergency
- Assist with translation or travel documentation
Always save their contact info before your trip — just in case.
Recap: What To Do If You Get Sick in Munich
- Dial 112 in an emergency
- Use private clinics for fast, English-speaking medical help
- Visit pharmacies (Apotheken) for minor symptoms
- Save all receipts and reports for travel insurance
- Learn a few basic German phrases, or book with Air Doctor for English-speaking care
- Stay hydrated, dress smart, and take breaks
- Be extra prepared if you’re pregnant or have a medical condition
- Reach out to your embassy if you need added support
About Air Doctor
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Healthcare access in 90 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including cardiologists
FAQs
Yes, absolutely. Tourists can visit both public hospitals and private clinics in Munich. For faster service and English-speaking doctors, private clinics are often the best choice. Just be ready to pay upfront — and don’t forget to keep the receipt for your travel insurance!
Yes, you can — but it’s a little different than in some other countries. Many common medications (like painkillers, allergy relief, or stomach meds) are only available behind the counter at a pharmacy (Apotheke), so you’ll need to speak to the pharmacist. They’re super helpful and often speak English.
Not usually. Unless you’re a resident with German health insurance, you’ll need to pay for your medication. The good news? Prices are generally reasonable, and if you have travel insurance, you can usually claim it back.
