Our departing flight in Munich is very early in the morning so we will be leaving our hotel (300 meters from the main train station) and will need to leave at 4 AM. Is the area around the station safe to walk around at this time in the morning with our bags?
I don't want the responsibility of guaranteeing you that nothing can happen, but I feel safer in Germany, particularly in Munich, than anywhere in the US.
The S-Bahn to the airport starts running before 4 AM. The first two S-Bahn after 4 are S8. They will be going in the direction (Richtung) Ost Bahnhof.
I felt safe at all times when I was in Munich. I vaguely remember one late night/early morning stumbling around trying to find my hostel after the bar.
Another option is to grab a taxi from the hotel. If I remember correctly, it's about 40 euros from the station to the airport. Agree on price before hand.
We felt very safe in Germanyin including Munich.
We always stay near the train station and have made the exact trip you are asking about. The area is perfectly safe.
You might encounter a drunk or two but they are harmless.
Thank you all for your comments!