Munich   Travel Guide

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tourism in munich germany

24 Essential Things to Do in Munich, Germany ( + Day Trips)

Munich may be famous for its beer gardens, beer halls and annual Oktoberfest, but these beer-fueled attractions aren’t the only reasons to plan a visit to this cosmopolitan city. Art and culture lovers will be satisfied with the city’s variety of

  • All Things To Do

tourism in munich germany

Marienplatz Marienplatz free

The Marienplatz square, accessible by a U-Bahn station of the same name, is considered the heart of Munich, and has been since the city was founded in 1158. In medieval times, it hosted markets and jousting tournaments. Today, busy Marienplatz is a must-visit for its two town halls, and is also a great spot to stop for coffee and watch the world go by. For Munich day trippers, it’s the perfect starting point for a tour of the city’s main central attractions, as well as the square’s surrounding pedestrianized area, home to foodie paradise, the Viktualienmarkt , and countless restaurants, cafes and shops. At Christmastime, Marienplatz fills with vendors selling festive food, mulled wine and holiday gifts at the popular Christkindlmarkt.

Recent travelers say spending some time in this city square is a must-do, noting the distinctly Bavarian feel. Past visitors also recommended timing your visit for the daily glockenspiel shows at the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) , which take place at 11 a.m. and noon. The square is free to visit 24/7, though individual businesses operate their own hours.

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English Garden (Englischer Garten) English Garden (Englischer Garten) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you need a break from the crowds, hop on the U-Bahn to the Westpark to enjoy fewer tourists, more locals and in spring, some 20,000 roses. The Westpark is also home to Chinese and Japanese gardens and a Nepalese pagoda. – Christie Dietz

This large public park, which stretches from the city center to the northeastern city limits, is one of Munich's must-dos. Named for the informal English style of rolling hills and open landscaping, the Englischer Garten contains four popular beer gardens, jogging and biking paths, several kiosks for buying drinks and snacks, a boating lake, and monuments, including a Greek temple, a Japanese tea house and the Chinese Tower, or Chinesischer Turm. Head to the tower for one of the city’s largest beer gardens and several seasonal events throughout the year, such as a Christmas market and a traditional Bavarian dance event. One of the park’s biggest draws is the Eisbach wave (Eisbachwelle) at the garden entrance, a human-made standing wave that allows surfers to try their hand at river surfing almost all year.

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Munich Residence (Residenz München) Munich Residence (Residenz München)

What originated in the late 1300s as a small, moated Gothic castle was transformed over the centuries by the Bavarian Wittelsbach dynasty to become the largest city palace in Germany. From 1508 to 1918, the Munich Residence (Residenz Munich) was the residence and seat of government of the Bavarian dukes, electors and kings. Today, it’s an impressive mix of Renaissance, Baroque, rococo and neoclassicism styles – and what many travelers describe as a must-see when visiting Munich.

Inside, you can explore more than 150 ornately decorated rooms filled with tapestries, paintings, sculptures, clocks and furniture. Highlights include King Ludwig I’s neoclassical royal apartment and the treasury, which comprises 10 halls displaying a magnificent collection of exhibits, such as crowns, goblets, swords, jewelry and tableware. The Court Church of All Saints (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche), the Rococo Cuvilliés Theater (Cuvilliés-Theater) and Hercules Hall (Herkulessaal) are today all used as performance venues. The palace is surrounded by the Court Garden (Hofgarden), a beautiful park filled with courtyards, fountains, statues, pavilions and water features.

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Popular Tours

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Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Head to the palace late in the day to enjoy fewer crowds and a peaceful sunset in the beautiful gardens. – Christie Dietz

Located in the northwestern district of Neuhausen-Nymphenburg, Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) was built as a gift for the wife of Elector Ferdinand Maria, Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, on the birth of their long-awaited son. Designed by Italian architect Agostino Barelli, who also designed Munich’s Theatine Church (Theatinerkirche), the Baroque-style palace was completed in the 1670s. Over the centuries, it was extended and embellished with Rococo and Neoclassical elements.

tourism in munich germany

Viktualienmarkt Viktualienmarkt free

The Viktualienmarkt, located off the Marienplatz U-Bahn and S-Bahn stops, began as a farmers market in 1807. Today, the 100 or so permanent stands offer everything from freshly baked bread to sausages and honey to fresh flowers. There are also several fountains featuring statues of local comedians, actors and singers, and a towering maypole decorated with emblems depicting various aspects of Munich life. You can also enjoy a locally brewed beer in the shade of the chestnut trees at the Viktualienmarkt beer garden.

Travelers say this market is perfect for an afternoon stroll, noting visitors should stop to buy and sample some of the goods available (especially the pretzels and white sausages), and finish their day with a cold drink at the beer garden.

tourism in munich germany

Old Town (Altstadt) Old Town (Altstadt) free

Located in the heart of Munich, the city’s Old Town ( Altstadt ) is a hive of activity that’s as popular with tourists as it is with locals and packed with sights and attractions.

The Marienplatz is at the center of the Old Town, a former market square named, along with the victory column – St. Mary’s Column ( Mariensäule ) – in its center, after Bavarian’s patron saint, Mary. Travelers love both the sights and the atmosphere here and are impressed by the neo-Gothic New Town Hall ( Neues Rathaus ), famous for its glockenspiel and the location of both the Lord Mayor’s office and Tourist Information. During Advent, there are several Christmas markets in the Old Town, but the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the most traditional, dating back to the 14th century.

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Asam Church (Asamkirche) Asam Church (Asamkirche) free

Munich is full of hidden gems, and the Asam Church (Asamkirche) is no exception. Nestled between stores and cafes on the city's popular shopping street Sendlinger Straße, this 18th-century church, which is officially called St.-Johann-Nepomuk-Kirche, is an unexpected masterpiece. 

Previous visitors said they were intrigued by the building's unique exterior while strolling by, so they decided to peek inside. What they found was a tiny church with enormous detail. 

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Glockenspiel in the New City Hall (Rathaus-Glockenspiel) Glockenspiel in the New City Hall (Rathaus-Glockenspiel) free

In the tower of the New City Hall ( Neues Rathaus ) on Marienplatz is Munich’s world-famous glockenspiel. With its 43 bells and 32 life-size figures, the large solar-powered mechanical clock first sounded in 1908 and reenacts scenes from two famous 16th-century Munich stories twice a day; from March to October, there’s an additional reenactment at 5 p.m. The glockenspiel has a repertoire of 22 pieces of music, mostly folk songs, that are played on rotation, with four reserved especially for Advent. The only time the glockenspiel is silent is on Good Friday.

The first of its two scenes depicts a moment from a jousting tournament that took place on Marienplatz in 1568 during two weeks of celebrations held in honor of the wedding of the local Duke Wilhelm V to Renate of Lorraine: A Bavarian knight triumphs over his French opponent by thrusting him off his horse with his lance. The second scene illustrates the dance of Munich’s barrel makers ( Münchner Schäffler ), who are celebrating being allowed to venture out onto the streets again for the first time after a severe plague epidemic in 1517 and began dancing to entertain the city’s plague-ravaged residents. In a third performance every evening between March and October, a night watchman comes out to blow his horn and a guardian angel stretches a protective hand over the Munich Child ( Münchner Kindl) , the symbol on the city’s coat of arms.

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Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour from Munich by Train

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Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Munich

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Pinakothek Museums Pinakothek Museums

Amongst the outstanding collection of museums in Munich’s art district – Kunstareal – are the three Pinakothek museums. All are within walking distance of one another and are part of the Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen (Bavarian State Picture Collection), along with several other museums.

The Alte Pinakothek – translated as the “Old Picture Gallery” – is regarded by experts as one of Europe’s most significant art museums. With walls lined with works from Titian, Rembrandt and Rubens, the museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of 14th- to 18th-century paintings. Visitors appreciated the incredible collection of masterpieces and the audio guide, which can be accessed via your smartphone – so remember to bring headphones!

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Deutsches Museum Deutsches Museum

A science and technology museum like no other (according to travelers), the Deutsches Museum brims with exhibits on everything from robotics and aviation to bridges and musical instruments. Sprawling across more than 200,000 square feet of space, the museum reopened in 2022 after a yearslong renovation. Today, visitors have the opportunity to explore 19 new and redesigned exhibits. There’s also Kids’ Kingdom ( Kinderreich ), a section geared toward 3- to 8-year-olds that houses interactive exhibits, including a marble run, a hall of mirrors and a giant guitar that kids can crawl inside and actually play. Beyond the exhibits, the museum also boasts a rooftop restaurant and a gift shop.

There are also two other branches of the Deutsches Museum (accessible via additional admission fees). In the west of the city, the affiliated Center for Transportation ( Verkehrszentrum) offers three exhibition halls filled with transport-related exhibits, including vintage cars and locomotives. Meanwhile, Flugwerft Schleissheim is all about aviation, and it’s located about 13 miles north in Oberschleißheim.

tourism in munich germany

Olympiapark Olympiapark free

Originally constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics, Munich's Olympiapark is now a popular tourist attraction. It houses a massive recreation center complete with skating rinks, an indoor pool, mini golf courses, tennis courts and, of course, the 77,337-seat Olympic Stadium. The stadium hosts concerts and other large-ticketed events throughout the year, but many visitors come to the park to explore the plethora of activities in and around the stadium.

The park sprawls across more than 200 acres, meaning you likely won’t see it all during one visit. If you’re limited on time, opt for a 20-minute tram tour of the grounds for 7 euros (around $7.60). Some visitors preferred this comfortable sightseeing method, but others said they wished the tram tour passed more interesting sights. For a 360-degree view of the park, city and the nearby Alps, climb up the grassy mound known as Olympic Hill (Olympiaberg). It’s one of the highest elevations in the city and a popular picnic spot in the summer. During warm weather, you can also rent rowboats and pedal boats to take out onto the park’s lake.

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Augustiner-Keller Augustiner-Keller free

Augustiner-Keller, one of few remaining traditional beer gardens left in the city center, is Munich’s oldest brewery, and the last remaining one that’s owned privately. It was first mentioned in 1812 on the Munich city map as a beer storage facility, and was acquired by the owner of the Augustiner brewery in 1862.

The beer garden took its current form in 1896 and has changed very little since. Today it has some 5,000 seats and is very popular in summer, in part thanks to the shade of its 100 or so chestnut trees. You can sample traditional Bavarian food here, such as sausages or roast pork, opt for lighter international dishes and salads, or if you want to cut costs, do as the locals do and bring a picnic. In winter, the historic brewery building has a network of cozy rooms and larger beer halls to drink and dine in.

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Odeonsplatz Odeonsplatz free

Despite its location in the heart of Bavaria, Munich has been called "Italy's most northerly city" because of its architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Its Italian influence is most apparent in Odeonsplatz – a historic square near the city center designed by a king who had an affinity for the Mediterranean country.  

The Field Marshals' Hall (Feldherrnhalle) – a three-arch monument built in the 1840s – stands at the south end of the Odeonsplatz square and is almost identical to  Florence 's Loggia dei Lanzi. Deeply embedded in pre-World War II history, the monument is perhaps best known as the site of the 1923 Beer Hall Putsch, a failed coup by the Nazi Party following which Hitler was arrested. Nowadays, the Feldherrnhalle's steps provide an ideal spot for Munich residents and visitors to lounge. 

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Third Reich Walking Tour Munich

Third Reich Walking Tour Munich

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St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) free

St. Peter's Church  (Peterskirche) is Munich's oldest place of worship. Its stunning white and gold interior is filled with treasures, but its tower – fondly known as Old Peter (Alter Peter) by locals – is the real draw. Adorned with eight clocks and eight bells, the tower stands at nearly 200 feet tall. From its viewing platform, visitors are treated to 360-degree views of Munich, including City Hall (Rathaus) and the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Dear Lady) .

Recent travelers were impressed by the church's glittering altar, not to mention the gold, jewel-bedecked, glass-enclosed skeleton of St. Munditia, a revered Christian martyr. Reviewers also said the view at the top of the tower is a must-see and worth the effort.

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Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Frauenkirche) Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Frauenkirche) free

Officially called the Cathedral Of Our Dear Lady (Zu Unserer Lieben Frau) , this Munich landmark is also known locally as Munich Cathedral (Münchner Dom) and the Frauenkirche. The Gothic-period cathedral is a unique part of the city skyline, thanks to its two dome-topped towers. The dual towers stand at around 323 feet, though one is slightly higher than the other – and no one knows why! Thanks to a law passed in 2004, no buildings within Munich’s city limits are allowed to be constructed taller than the towers.

The main part of the church and two towers were constructed in the late 1400s, built with red bricks in order to save money as there were no local stone quarries. The domed tower roofs were added in 1525. The cathedral was severely damaged by bombing during World War II, and although the initial restoration was simpler than the original design, more ornate embellishments were added later.

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Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein) Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)

Neuschwanstein Castle ( Schloss Neuschwanstein ) famously served as the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Built on a rock ledge over the Pöllat Gorge on the site of two smaller castles, the medieval-style Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II in 1868. Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe, and just a two-hour train ride south of Munich.

Even if you’re not interested in touring the inside of the castle, travelers say it’s still worth the trip for the views of the exterior and surrounding area. You can admire the photogenic setting on one of the many wooded trails, or from Marienbrücke, a bridge suspended over a waterfall that offers spectacular photo-ops of the castle and Bavarian Alps.

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Bavarian National Museum (Bayerisches Nationalmuseum) Bavarian National Museum (Bayerisches Nationalmuseum)

The Bavarian National Museum ( Bayerisches Nationalmuseum ) is one of Germany’s largest museums and one of Europe’s largest art and cultural history museums.

Founded in 1855 by King Maximilian II, it was dedicated to the history of the Wittelsbach dynasty and the culture and history of the people they ruled. The museum was originally situated between what is today Karlsplatz and Marienplatz , but its collection quickly outgrew its space. In 1900, the museum was moved to a historic building complex on Prinzregentenstraße, close to the River Isar. Much of the museum required reconstruction following severe damage during World War II.

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The Hirschgarten The Hirschgarten free

Located in the Nymphenburg district in Munich’s west, the approximately 100-acre Hirschgarten park was created in 1780 by Elector Carl Theodor as a hunting ground for the nobility. Though it’s no longer used for hunting, the park does shelter a wild animal enclosure, which is home to fallow deer and wild sheep that visitors can feed (just pay attention to the signage listing what the animals are allowed to eat). The Hirschgarten park also houses several playgrounds, including a water playground for hot summer days, a small skate park, barbeque areas and various walking trails.

The Königlicher Hirschgarten restaurant and beer garden , which dates back to 1791, is also situated in the park. With seating for more than 8,000 people, it’s the largest traditional beer garden in the world. Stop by for some hearty fare, such as white sausages with sweet mustard, käsepätzle (egg noodles with cheese and onions), or a large platter of bread, cold cuts and cheeses. Recent travelers say the beer garden has a great ambiance, excellent service and a fantastic location, and that the park is a peaceful place to escape the packed downtown area.

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Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour in Munich

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St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) free

Situated in Munich’s pedestrian zone halfway between Karlsplatz and Marienplatz, St. Michael’s Church (Michaelskirche) is considered to be the first Renaissance church built north of the Alps. According to past travelers, it is a must-see in Munich.

The Jesuit church was built in two stages. Commissioned by Duke Herzog Wilhelm V and modeled on the Jesuits’ mother church in Rome, its foundation stone was laid in 1583, but a vaulting system was used that turned out to be unstable and in 1590, the church’s tower collapsed and destroyed the choir, which had just been completed. In a second stage of construction, the plans for the (now towerless) church were expanded to incorporate a new choir and transept, resulting in the impressively proportioned building that still stands today.

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Cuvilliés Theatre (Cuvilliés-Theater) Cuvilliés Theatre (Cuvilliés-Theater)

Named after its Belgian-born architect François de Cuvilliés, the plush Cuvilliés Theatre ( Cuvilliés-Theater ), originally called the Residence Theatre ( Residenztheater ), was built in rococo style in the mid-18th century as a theater for Elector Maximilian Joseph III and used for grand opera performances for members of the royal court.

The building was destroyed toward the end of World War II, and the theater was rebuilt in one of the wings of the Munich Residence (Residenz München) . The theater’s ornately carved wooden box paneling had been dismantled and security stored during the war and could be reused in its meticulous reconstruction and decoration in magnificent red and gold. It reopened under its new name, the Cuvilliés Theatre, in 1958. It’s also known as the Old Residence Theatre ( Altes Residenztheater ) to distinguish it from the New Residence Theatre ( Neues Residenztheater ), which was built on the Cuvilliés Theater’s original site.

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NS-Dokumentationszentrum NS-Dokumentationszentrum free

The Munich Documentation Center for the History of National Socialism (NS-Dokumentationszentrum), abbreviated to “nsdoku,” explores the history of National Socialism and the longstanding effects of the Nazi dictatorship.

The museum is located on Königsplatz on the site of the Brown House ( Braunes Haus) , the former headquarters of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party – the Nazi Party – which was almost destroyed by Allied bombing in 1945. More than any other city, Munich is most closely associated with the rise of National Socialism, and between 1933 and 1945, the area surrounding the nsdoku became a primary location for the Nazi Party and home to many of its administrative offices.

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Munich Court Garden (Hofgarten) Munich Court Garden (Hofgarten) free

Bordered by the Munich Residence (Residenz München) , the Bavarian State Chancellery ( Bayerische Staatskanzlei ) and Odeonsplatz , the Munich Court Garden ( Hofgarten ) is an enjoyable place to stroll around as part of a visit to the palace, but with its plentiful benches, also makes a great spot to take a break from sightseeing and shopping.

Plans for the garden date back to 1613, when various new buildings and extensions of the palace were being constructed. It was designed in the style of formal Italian Renaissance gardens, but was redesigned several times according to changing fashions, and needed rebuilding after it was destroyed during World War II.

tourism in munich germany

Bavarian State Opera House (Bayerische Staatsoper) Bavarian State Opera House (Bayerische Staatsoper)

U.S. News Insider Tip: If your Munich visit coincides with the opera’s annual summer festival and you’d like to attend a free live broadcast from the National Theatre/open-air concert at Max-Joseph-Platz, do as the locals and bring a picnic and something to sit on. – Christie Dietz

The Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsoper) is one of the world’s most acclaimed opera houses. Its history goes back some 350 years and today, it has its own orchestra, the Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsorchester), and ballet company, the Bavarian State Ballet (Bayerische Staatsballett).

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Berchtesgaden and Eagle's Nest Day Trip from Munich

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Munich Ghosts and Spirits Evening Walking Tour

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Munich City Walk and Oktoberfest Tour With Beer Tent Reservation

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BMW World (BMW Welt) and the BMW Museum BMW World (BMW Welt) and the BMW Museum

On the east side of the Olympiapark , situated a few minutes’ walk from each other in a complex shared with BMW’s corporate headquarters and main plant, the BMW Museum and BMW Welt (which translates as “BMW World”) are dedicated to one of Germany’s most famous exports.

Housed in a strikingly modern building, the BMW Museum documents the brand’s 100-year history through temporary and permanent exhibitions that feature collections of cars, motorcycles and engines, as well as displays highlighting BMW’s technological advances and achievements from its inception to today. Directly opposite, the futuristic-looking BMW Welt is home to the newest BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles, as well as exhibitions showcasing BMW’s latest innovations. Many travelers said it the site was worth visiting, if not for the cars then for the building's contemporary architecture.

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TheMunichGuide

The 20 best things to do in Munich, Germany

A local’s list of the top tourist attractions, highlights, and things to do in munich..

Are you planning a trip to Bavaria’s capital? And now you are wondering about the best things to do in Munich? What to see and what to skip?

Well, then I got you covered. I have been living in Munich for the past 20 years and I love exploring my hometown. So, in this guide, I am going to show you the absolute must-sees and top tourist attractions . But I also mixed in some insider tips along the way so you get a memorable experience beyond the beaten tourist tracks, so you can plan your perfect Munich itinerary (<- click to read mine)

The Marienkirche as seen from the new Town Hall

Munich has a history of more than 800 years and is now the third-largest city in Germany. It’s also the most affluent region of my country, which sadly means you’ll face higher prices than in Berlin or Cologne. But let that not deter you – there are plenty of bargains to be had and I’m going to reveal some of them to you in this travel guide.

The Siegestor at the end of the Ludwigstrasse in the hear of Munich

You will probably need around 3-4 days to see it all. There are some beautiful day trip options from Munich , so you could basically stay a week or more. But I also prepared a one day Munich itinerary , for those in a hurry. Anyways, let’s get started with my favorite Munich highlights, shall we?

1. Marienplatz

The imposing neogothic new town hall on Marienplatz in Munich

Start your Munich tour at the heart of the city. The Marienplatz (Square of our Lady) with its imposing neo-gothic city hall (“ Neues Rathaus “) is one of the best photography spots in the city . Every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. the gigantic carillon comes to life. The Munich Glockenspiel is the largest in Germany and you’ll find the square particularly crowded around these times (for a reason).

You’ll find many traditional restaurants and shops around the Marienplatz, but it’s not exactly the place where locals hang out or enjoy their dinner (but you might enjoy the Rathaus Keller right below the city hall for lunch). As it is also the start of the Munich pedestrian area , you should definitely consider walking all the way up to Stachus, as there are a couple of beautiful churches along the way and many shops to get a nice souvenir.

The station underneath Marienplatz is also quite famous. I listed it among the 10 most beautiful subway stations in Munich . So, if you are a fan of modern architecture, don’t miss it. You can read more about Marienplatz here .

Note: You can actually climb the tower of the city hall for a small fee of 4.00 euros per person. You’ll get the best view, however, from the Alter Peter church tower (see below). It’s featured in my list of the 20 best photo locations in Munich .

2. Munich Residence Palace

The Munich Residence Palace in the heart of Bavaria's capital

The Münchner Residenz has been the seat of the Bavarian kings, prince-electors, and dukes for almost 400 years. From the Renaissance to Neoclassicism, you’ll find nearly every style and epoche represented in one of the 130 staterooms you can visit on the extended tour. The magnificent Antiquarium and the Ancestor Gallery are probably the most popular parts.

The Antiquarium inside the Munich Residence Palace

I do have to warn you, however, that the Residence Palace is a true maze and you’ll need around 4 hours to see it all. Mind you, that is time well spent, as each and every flight of stairs brings you to another amazing apartment, festival hall, church or throne room. It’s easy to visit the fantastic Nibelung halls on the ground floor, but if you see the sign, definitely go downstairs and they will blow your mind! Check out my list of the 15 best castles near Munich for further inspiration.

Note: Definitely make sure to visit the outstanding Treasury on the ground floor where you can see the Bavarian crown jewels and other outstanding artwork made from gold, silver, and diamonds. It’s not covered by the standard ticket, but worth to pay the extra 5 Euros. Find more information here .

3. Church of Our Lady

The chuch of our lady in Munich in WInter from above

The Frauenkirche is the symbol of Munich and you’ll basically find the cathedral on every postcard and brochure in my hometown. And you are lucky, 2020 is the first year the towers are free of scaffolding (after nearly 10 years of restoration work). It’s still not possible to climb them, though.

The cathedral is not only the biggest but also one of the oldest in town. It was consecrated in 1494 and remained virtually unchanged ever since – at least from outside. During World War II the church was hit by a bomb and much of the interiors got destroyed. But the bigger loss occurred 90 years older. Back then and all over Europe, it was popular to purify the baroque churches and bring them back to a “virgin” (neo-)gothic state. What you see inside now is largely a reconstruction from the 1980ies (using historic original parts).

4. Alte Pinakothek

The Alte Pinakothek Museum in Munich

Did you know? Munich is one of the top art metropoles on this planet. You’ll find almost 100 museums in and around Bavaria’s capital . Not all of them are world-renowned, but you definitely need to the Alte Pinakothek in Munich’s art quarter ( Kunstareal ; find a list of the best museums in Munich here ). It is Munich’s oldest museum and home to an outstanding collection of German, Italian and Flemish old masters.

An exhibition room inside the Alte Pinakothek in Munich

So, expect pictures by Albrecht Dürrer, Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, Rembrandt, Rubens, and other master painters. They usually have a spectacular special exhibition on the ground floor worth checking out. So, definitely look it up on the official website before you visit. You’ll also find the New Pinakothek next door, but it will be closed until at least 2022 (which is the reason it does not appear on this list).

Note: The entrance fee is only 1 euro on Sundays. Also, don’t forget the Alte Pinakothek is closed on Mondays.

5. BMW World & museum

The BWM Museum and BWM tower in the north of Munich

Munich is not only famous for its beer, fairy tale castles, and leather trousers. You’ll also find the BMW headquarters in the north of the city . Why is this important? Well, as a tourist you can’t visit the famous cylindrical BWM towers, but you can visit the BWM world and museum right next to it.

The BMW Welt is an architectural masterpiece and actually one of the few free things to do in Munich. It’s, more or less, one big car saloon where you can few all the current (and some past) models, futuristic innovations, and racing cars. If you are a car lover, you shouldn’t miss it. The adjacent museum is not free, but equally amazing as it takes you through the whole history of the Bayerische Motorenwerke .

Note: There is a 3-star Michelin restaurant on the third floor of the BMW Welt called Esszimmer . The Museum is closed on Mondays, while the showrooms are open all week, except on Sundays (closes at noon). Also, be aware that the Olympic Park is right next to it.

6. Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg palace in the North-west of Munich as seen from the park

Wondering about my personal favorite place to visit in Munich? It’s the Nymphenburg Palace. T he summer residence of the Bavarian kings and prince-electors is just beautiful beyond words. You’ll find imposing staterooms and a gigantic hall with a beautiful ceiling fresco inside.

The stone haal with frescoes inside Nymphenburg Palace in Munich

While beautiful, I love the park behind the palace even more. You’ll find a couple of smaller palaces scattered across the landscape and each of them is a true gem worth visiting. Pagodenburg, Amalienburg, and Badenburg (a bathing palace, can you believe it?) are what you need to see, but simply strolling around the English landscape park is a treat in and by itself.

The Temple of Apollo in the park of Nymphenburg Palace in Munich

There are three museums in the wings of Nymphenburg Palace that you might want to check out if you got some spare time. The carriage museum is probably the most impressive (sounds a bit dull, I know, but I promise you won’t regret it), but the Nymphenburg porcelain collection is just as beautiful. If you are traveling with kids, the Museum Mensch and Natur will be a special place.

Note: Don’t skip the adjacent Botanical Garden. Even in winter, the huge greenhouses will invite you to explore plants from all over the world. And it’s one of my favorite places to visit in autumn .

7. Bavarian National Museum

The Bavarian National Museum in Munich

Bavaria has a long and spectacular history. The Wittelsbacher family ruled my home country for as long as people can remember. And over the centuries they amassed quite some wealth which all become the property of the Bavarian State after World War I. If you want to delve into the fascinating history of Bavaria, then you absolutely have to visit the Bavarian National Museum.

It’s far from a boring history museum with dusty cabinets, but more an arts & design collection. Ivory, porcelain, furniture and other outstanding artworks from the past 1,000 years are on display in lovely & modern exhibition halls. It’s actually my favorite museum in Munich, as it is so diverse.

Tip: Visit on Sundays, as the entrance fee is only 1 euro (except for the special exhibitions) and take some extra time as the museum is huge and there’s quite a lot to see. And don’t skip the amazing nativity scene collection in the cellar.

8. English Garden

The Englische Garten landscape park in Munich in autumn

Looking for a beautiful escape in the middle of the city? Then head straight to the Englische Garten right behind the Munich Residence Palace. This is the place where most locals will hang out in summer (so expect it to be quite crowded on weekends). For most, it’s a popular park to go for a walk, jogging, or playing sports.

The Chinese Tower beer garden in the heart of the Englische Garten

Right in the middle of it, you’ll find the Chinese Tower ( Chinesische Turm ). The wooden pagoda is the center of a beautiful and lively beer garden where you can enjoy a traditional stein of beer and some authentic local food. On weekends, there is even live music (typically a bavarian brass band). As an alternative, you could also walk even further to the artificial lake Kleinhesselohe where you’ll find another beer garden. Here, you could even rent a pedal boat for a little romantic outing on the water. You can also book a ride in a horse-drawn carriage if you want to add a little romantic time to your visit in Munich

Note: The Englische Garten several kilometers long. No need to explore it all, but don’t limit yourself to the tiny Hofgarten right behind the palace. At least try to see the Monopteros temple, which is a particularly scenic viewpoint.

9. Pinakothek der Moderne

The Pinakothek der Moderne in the Art Quarter of Munich

I already mentioned the Alte Pinakothek, but there is actually a fantastic museum for lovers of modern art as well. I personally love the building of the Pinakothek der Moderne, as it offers o many viewpoints and fantastic lines of sight. The collection is quite amazing as well. Gerhard Richter, Picasso, Salvador Dali, Joseph Beuys – there are notable artworks from all the famous artists of the 20th century on display.

In the basement, you will find a beautiful design collection . There’s not only Art Nouveau but also contemporary industrial design. So, you’ll find the first apple pc, game boys, and smartphones there, along with outstanding cars and modern furniture.

Tip: If you like contemporary art, then you should visit the Museum Brandhorst is right behind the museum.

10. Königsplatz

The Propylaen on the Königsplatz in Munich

For most of its history, Munich wasn’t a large city. It only started to really grow at the beginning of the 19th century. But as the city gained prominence, there came a need for further representation and the Königsplatz ist the best example of this burgeoning importance. Here, King Ludwig of Bavaria had a neoclassical ensemble built to house two ancient greek museums.

It all looks a bit like a mixture of an ancient Egyptian temple and the Acropolis, which probably was the intended effect. Famous architect Leo von Klenze is responsible for the eclectic mix. Fans of classical greek sculptures will love the Glypthotek Museum on the right side, while lovers of ancient Greek pottery, bronze, and jewelry should definitely visit the Antikensammlung on the left side.

11. Hofbräuhaus

The Hofbräuhaus in the old town of Munich

Hofbräuhaus – no other place is as deeply connected with the Bavarian beer culture than the most popular restaurant among tourists. You’ll find it in the heart of the Munich old town, with an endless mass of souvenir shops nearby. The place dates to 1589 when a new brewery was built to supply the court, but the current building was only finished in 1897.

I do have to warn you, however, that it is a place for tourists and it always was. Locals really don’t go there, because even in the 19th century it was already extremely popular among visitors . So, popular, they had to move the actual brewery on the outskirts (to Maxweberplatz) to make room for more tables. But then again, if you want to see a big Bavarian beer hall with live music and authentic food, it’s probably one of the best places to visit in Munich. The beer is actually quite good as well. The place is huge, so try to go a bit further to the back (or on the second floor) to escape the crowds.

Note: Hofbräuhaus is by far the only beer hall in the city center. Augustinerbräu or Schneider Bräuhaus are viable alternatives that are actually a bit more authentic.

12. Lenbachhaus

The old part of the Lenbachhaus Museum in Munich

Munich became very popular among artists in the second half of the 19th century. So, popular, in fact, that a few artists were celebrated like pop stars . Franz von Lenbach was one of them. He was famous for his portraits among the aristocracy and heads of state, and made a fortune painting them. His oeuvre is basically a who-is-who of the late 19th century. He built himself a huge villa which is now home to a museum, and you can even tour his old apartment.

The majority of the museum is dedicated to the artist from the Blue Rider (Der Blaue Reiter). If you love Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc, August Macke, Gabriele Münter, Paul Klee, Marianne von Werefkin, then you won’t find a better place to enjoy their works on this planet. They also acquired some important installations by Joseph Beuys, so it’s really worth visiting. Here’s the official website .

13. Viktualienmarkt

The maypole on the Viktualienmarkt food market in the heart of Munich Germany

There are many wonderful restaurants in the inner city, but if you want to sample authentic bavarian food it really doesn’t get any better than the Viktualienmarkt. You’ll find the gourmet farmers market right behind the central square, and it’s full of booths selling cheese, sausages, vegetables, and fruits. And the far back, there are also a couple of smaller street food stalls and juice bars.

Most importantly, there is a beer garden in the middle of it all. So, why is this important? According to the Bavarian beer garden law, you are allowed to bring your own food to your table. You only need to buy the trinks (if you can’t handle a stein full of beer, get a Radler , which is beer mixed with lemonade). I recommend you to browse the market, buy yourself some snacks, and then sit down and eat them while enjoying a cold blond bavarian beer (it’s self-service, so you have to go to the counter).

Interesting to note: The beer garden serves a different kind of beer each day on a rotating basis. There is a sign above the counter which tells you which brewery is being served on that particular day)

14. Theatinerkirche & Odeonsplatz

Odeonsplatz in the hear of Munich with the CHurch of our lady in the background

There is a third major square in Munich you cannot miss: Odeonsplatz. Most tourist guides will tell you the story about how the Feldherrnhalle is the place where Adolf Hitler failed in his first putsch . While we should never forget the grizzly parts of our past, I urge you to focus on the beautiful Theatiner church instead. To me, it’s the most beautiful church in Munich.

The Theatinerkirche on Odeonsplatz in Munich in Winter

Why? Well, while all the other churches got either purged of their baroque splendor or are Bavarian fantasy kitsch, this one is pure elegance. The impressive stucco works inside are definitely baroque, but as the interiors are all white, it’s a sort of timeless beauty hard to escape.

Insider tip: Every Sunday morning they celebrate a Latin high mass accompanied by a classic church concerto and choir. Find out more here .

15. Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein castle in winter - only a short day trip from Munich away

Munich is a beautiful city, but you should definitely consider doing at least one day trip. There are around 50 (I am not even joking!) beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites, landmarks, and national parks close-by, but most tourists will probably want to see Neuschwanstein Castle. This is the castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping beauty castle , and it is a true must-see.

It takes about 2 hours to get there by train , but you can also book a guided bus tour which I actually recommend. It is the only way you can ensure to get tickets to go inside, otherwise you have to try to book it via the official website at least 2 days in advance using a weird pdf form. Schloss Neuschwanstein is the last castle King Ludwig II built during his short lifetime, but certainly not the last. Linderhof palace or Herrenchiemsee are just as beautiful.

Note: Please be aware that the most beautiful viewpoint (i.e the Marienbrücke) might be closed in winter. There is another castle, Hohenschwangau Castle, right next to it, you could also visit!

16. Alter Peter

Munich from above as seen from the alter peter church tower near Marienplatz

The Church of St. Peter is the oldest church in Munich and was probably founded around 1225 AD. You’ll find it about 50 meters away from Marienplatz. It’s a prime example of late bavarian baroque, and you’ll find a marvelous fresco on the ceiling and a beautiful high altar made, so it seems, from pure silver and gold.

The viewing plattform atop the alter peter clock tower

The clock tower, called “old Pete” among locals, is one of the most spectacular things to see in Munich. The platform at the top is around 80 meters high and from here you can see the whole inner city . Whether it’s the neogothic city hall, the old city hall or the Church of our Lady – you can breathe it in from the lofty heights. And don’t be afraid – there is a cage around the platform, so even people suffering from vertigo will feel reasonably safe.

Note: There is no elevator and you have to climb all the way to the top. The tower in the city hall does have an elevator so it might be the better choice for physically impaired people.

17. Deutsche Museum

The entrance of the Deutsche Museum - the most visited museum in Germany

The Deutsche Museum (‘The German Museum’) is the most visited museum in Germany . You might picture cabinets full of dusty books and pictures, but it is in fact a technical museum. Astronomy, geology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, aviation – you’ll find a huge section for nearly every part of the technology that defines our modern life.

Most of the exhibitions are very interactive (with lots of buttons to press for kids), video installations, and even a planetarium at the very top. But it’s also one gigantic complex covering the biggest island on the river Isar in the city center. You probably need a full day to see it all. So, either bring a lot of time or focus on only two or three sections.

18. Friedensengel & Art Nouveau houses

The Friedensengel in Bogenhausen on a particulary sunny day in Munich

Did you know that there are way over a hundred beautiful Art Nouveau houses in Munich ? Most Munich travel guides don’t even mention this fascinating part of my hometown, yet it’s certainly nothing you should miss. The famous Friedensengel marks the beginning of this movement, but certainly not its end. You can easily go on a fantastic free walking tour through either Bogenhausen (start at Prinzregentenplatz) or in Schwabingen (Ainmillerstrasse) and explore the many Art Nouveau city villas and mansions there.

Art Nouveau houses at Ainmillerstrasse in Schwabing, Munich

The Müller’sche Volksbad is a prime example of the Jugendstil and you can actually still go swimming inside. If you got the time, you should definitely tour the historic rooms inside the Villa Stuck (actually a fantastic contemporary art museum) if you are a big fan of this period. The Bavarian National Museum also has a section dedicated to Art Nouveau, and so does the Pinakothek der Moderne.

19. Cuvilliés Theatre

Inside the fantastic Cuvilliés Theater in the Residence Palace in Munich

Munich has a very active theater culture. The Bavarian State Opera actually counts among the top 10 opera houses in the world , so you should definitely consider seeing a performance (no worries, there are English subtitles). If you are reasonably fluent in German, you could also check out one of the twenty-odd theatres in Munich. My favorite is the Residenztheater.

Even if opera or theater is not your thing, you should definitely make time to tour the fantastic Cuvilliés Theatre inside the Munich Residence Palace. It’s not part of the standard tour and you need an extra ticket for it. But again, it’s so worth it. The rococo style theather is one of the very few surviving historic court theaters from this period , and one of Munich’s hidden gems.

20. Asamkirche

Inside the baroque Asamkirche in the pedestrian area of Munich

The last item on this list of places to see in Munich might just be the best: The tiny Asamkirche is barely 8 meters wide and 22 long. Walking past it in the pedestrian area, you might not even notice it as it is nestled in between two regular houses. The baroque masterpiece built by Cosmas Damian Asam and Qgid Quirin Asam, was originally meant as a private church. But after protests from the citizens, it was opened to the public.

The two brothers were famous for their frescos and stucco work, and they defined the Bavarian late baroque like no other artists. The Asamkirche counts among their most important and beautiful work . Every inch is covered with gold, silver, and (fake) marble.

[Bonus] Oktoberfest

The Oktoberfest in Munich, crowds walking along the road of the folk festival

If you are visiting Munich in the last weeks of September, you could attend the world-famous Oktoberfest. The biggest folk festival in the world started in October 1810, but the Bavarians soon moved it to September, as the weather is more favorable then. While there are certainly a lot of tourists, it’s particularly popular among locals. There are even special days for kids, so it really is a place for the whole family.

You should know, however, that is not the only festival in Munich . There are the winter and summer Tollwood and the Spring Festival (Frühlingsfest), and of course the famous Kocherlball. Why do I mention these? Hotel prices are insane during Oktoberfest – often three times the normal costs. Yes, it’s fun as hell, but you also have to pay for it.

Other things to do in Munich

The hofgarten in Munich

I tried to limit this list to the highlights and top tourist attractions in Munich you simply have to see. But don’t believe for a second, that it’s all there is to see. In fact, I could easily add another 20 points of interest in Munich alone (like the amazing Bavaria Statue ) – and that does not account for all the beautiful day trips.

The Dachau Concentration camp instantly comes to mind ( read my guide here ) – quite the grizzly site, but one of such historic significance. There is also a Nazi Documentation Center museum in the middle of the city if that part of our darkest history interests you. You could even go on a Third Reich walking tour. Other wonderful museums you could visit are the Kunsthalle München, the Haus der Kunst, or the Egyptian Museum.

Then there are three other castles within the city limits : Alter Hof, Schleissheim Palace and Blutenburg you might want to check out. And of course, there are quite a lot of wonderful churches to check out. Fürstenfeld Abbey should be at the top of your list, but there are actually two stellar churches in the pedestrian area: St. Michael’s Church and the Bürgersaalkirche.

M unich also has a very lovely zoo , a safari park (Wildpark Poing), and a Sealife aquarium, if that is something you are interested in. Or you could watch a soccer match with FC Bayern München at the Allianz Arena. There are also quite a couple of walking tours available: Like Third Reich tour, or a medieval midnight tour. The sheer diversity is why I’d recommend visiting Munich and not Berlin if time is short.

Try to stay at least 3 days in Munich , so you got enough time to see the most important highlights ( check out different itinerary options here ). Do know, however, that München could easily occupy you for a month or more. Also, I heard some people being concerned about their safety. Munich is very safe . In fact, the safest city in Germany, so no need to worry.

Best time to visit Munich

The hofgarten in Munich in Winter with the Theatinerkirche in the background

The best time to visit Munich is probably September . Favorable weather and the Oktoberfest make it ideal for first-timers. Other than that, Munich will be beautiful all year round. There are beautiful Christmas markets in December, July and August are the best months to play your day trips, while January to March will often transform my hometown into a winter wonderland.

Summer, Oktoberfest, and December are usually the most crowded and most expensive times to visit , which is why I’d recommend you to come in June. You should know that Munich is also quite popular among German tourists, and you will want to arrive before the summer holidays start in July.

If you just want to visit the city itself, it basically does not matter when you visit. The weather only starts to be a relevant factor if you plan day trips to Regensburg, Salzburg, Bamberg, or Neuschwanstein Castle. As a rule of thumb, weekends are usually a lot busier (lots of local day tourists) than weekdays. Just try to avoid Mondays , as this is when most museums are closed.

So, this was my detailed guide to the best things to do in Munich. I hope I was able to give you a good overview. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments below

20 amazing things to do in Munich. A detailed travel guide with the top tourist attractions in Munich, Germany. bavaria's capital has so many beautiful highlights and points of interest. Plan your perfect Munich itinerary | Munich photography inspiration.

1 thought on “The 20 best things to do in Munich, Germany”

Great list. I’ve been before but learned plenty of new things from this post!

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Explore Munich

tourism in munich germany

Plan Your Trip to Munich: Best of Munich Tourism

Travel advice.

tourism in munich germany

Embrace Europe’s great outdoors

Essential munich.

tourism in munich germany

How to do Munich in 3 days

tourism in munich germany

How to Enjoy Oktoberfest Year Round in Munich

tourism in munich germany

Explore Munich by interest

Bring the kids.

tourism in munich germany

Bavaria’s best brews

tourism in munich germany

Architectural gems

tourism in munich germany

Take in a little history

tourism in munich germany

If you’re feeling fancy-ish

tourism in munich germany

Munich Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing munich.

tourism in munich germany

Eating out might get expensive in Munich. Remember the secret of Bavarian beer gardens, though: You are allowed to bring your own food!

tourism in munich germany

Munich is a typically efficient German city. Follow the orderliness, and you'll blend in well.

tourism in munich germany

While in Munich, a visit to the Viktualienmarkt, the local Farmers Market, is a must. But wear comfortable shoes for all the walking you do as you visit the various booths.

tourism in munich germany

Rambling Lawyer

The Munich Christkindlmarkt is one of the largest in the world, but actually there are about two dozen Christmas Markets in Munich and its surroundings alone. A good source of information about what's coming up is muenchen.de.

tourism in munich germany

Basically, we can not predict the weather. Last year it was hot in the spring and rather cool in the summer. Could be the opposite this year. Best advice is to go with layers: T-shirt and shorts would usually be fine, but have a jacket with you in case of cooler nights.

tourism in munich germany

Getting around Munich is easy on public transportation. If you are going to be in the city several days, you can get a 3-day pass for use on all trains, subways, buses, and trams.

One of the first reasons that many visitors come to Munich is the world-famous Oktoberfest, but while Munich beers are definitely excellent, the city offers much more to discover — both in winter and in summer — including the charming historical center, the beautiful green areas, and many art galleries.

According to polls, Munich is the German city that most Germans would like to live in, if they could. It actually is composed of several smaller towns, and since no buildings taller than the tallest church steeple are allowed according to building code, the center feels like a town.

One reason that more and more people move to Munich is the high quality of life you can enjoy here. Bavarians just know how to take good care of their environment! Take for example the beautiful urban parks where you can enjoy a variety of different sports, or just relax after work in clean, peaceful surroundings. Furthermore, Munich is only a 1-hour train ride away from the Alps and beautiful lake regions. In short, anybody who loves nature and outdoor activities is bound to love Munich!

tourism in munich germany

Munich is a well known and popular destination for people from all over the world. With a friendly relaxed living style, and plenty of attractions for visitors of all ages, Munich has it all.

What is the best way to get there?

Munich International Airport is located 18 miles (30 kilometers) northeast of Munich. The S1 and S8 S-Bahn trains depart for the city center every 20 minutes. The journey takes around 45 minutes.

Munich is well connected with other cities in Germany and Austria by the German autobahn network.

Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) is conveniently located in the center of Munich and well connected to Munich's excellent public transport network.

Long-distance buses from other European cities (notably the Balkans and Central Europe) provide an inexpensive way to travel to Europe. Buses arrive at Munich Central Bus Station.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Munich from overseas, visit the  Federal Foreign Office for information

When is the best time to visit?

Many visitors come to visit to celebrate the city’s famous Oktoberfest but, if you want to avoid crowds, between March and May is an ideal time. Fall’s crowds have long gone and summer's peak season hasn't yet begun. Average high temperatures are the high 40s °F (10 C) in March and high 60s °F (19 C) in May.

Munich’s largely traffic-free city center is best explored on foot.

public transit

The city’s dense public transportation system consists of suburban trains (S-Bahn), underground trains (U-Bahn), streetcars (Tram), and buses. There is only one ticket system, called MVV, which means you can use all modes of transportation with the same ticket. If you plan to use the system several times in one day, buying a day ticket can save you money

With its network of bike paths, Munich is a very cyclist-friendly city. The local dockless bike-sharing scheme is called Call-A-Bike.

Taxis are generally easy to find at ranks, train stations or on the street.

ridesharing

Uber is available in Munich on your smartphone.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Central European Standard Time

What are the voltage/plug types?

In Germany, the standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The plug type is F and has two round parallel pins.

What is the currency?

Are atms readily accessible, are credit cards widely accepted, how much do i tip.

A tip of around 10 percent is expected.

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking beer and wine is 16 years old. For other drinks, it is 18.

Cheers the right way

When you are toasting your companions with a drink, make eye contact and say a hearty “prost” as you clink glasses — clink with the bottom of your glass

Share table space

At many Munich restaurants, especially beer gardens, you are expected to share tables with other diners so don’t take up too much space.

Table manners

Wait for everyone in your party to get their food and say “Guten Appetit” before tucking in.

Germans are punctual and showing up late is considered rude.

Public transit

Let passengers off before boarding. Offer your seat to elderly and pregnant people and to those with disabilities.

Walk to the right of the sidewalk and step off to the side of the sidewalk if you want to stop to check your phone, look up directions, or want to take in a view.

  • Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
  • Platzl Hotel
  • Hotel Torbraeu
  • Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels
  • Hilton Munich Airport
  • Hofbräuhaus
  • Little London Bar & Grill
  • Ratskeller Munchen
  • Steinheil 16
  • Risotto Restaurant Munich
  • Marienplatz
  • English Garden
  • Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace Day Tour from Munich
  • Third Reich Walking Tour Munich
  • Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour from Munich by Train
  • Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Munich
  • Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castle Day Trip from Munich

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Munich Airport

20 essential travel tips for every first-time Munich visitor

Everything first-timers need to know to get around Munich, from transport tips to top attractions to Bavarian etiquette

Sure, you might know about Munich’s great museums, foodie scene and the ridiculous amount of beer on offer. But did you know about having to carry cash? Or that shops are always closed one day of the week?

Did you know you can surf here on the side of the street? Or that you can get into a museum for a euro? Well, if any of this is news to you, it sounds like you need this list. Our local writer has compiled the 20 essential things you need to know before you visit Munich. This is your holy grail. Enjoy!

RECOMMENDED:  📍 The best  things to do in Munich 🍴 The best  restaurants in Munich 🍻 Best places  to drink beer in Munich 🏺 The best  museums in Munich 🏛️ The best  attractions in Munich

Naomi Kaye is a writer based in Munich. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Essential tips for every first-time Munich visitor

Prepare for the ‘Millionendorf’ atmosphere

1.  Prepare for the ‘Millionendorf’ atmosphere

Munich isn’t just any city. The word to describe the vibe here is gemutlich, which means cosy, and let us tell you, it lives up to the name. And that’s what’s behind the term Millionendorf - Munich is the kind of place where you say hello on the street, you know your local shopkeepers, and you always make space for bikes. It’s not a skyscraper city, more like a little village. Take it in. 

Carry cash

2.  Carry cash

While major supermarket chains and shopping outlets are likely to accept your credit card, most restaurants and stores in Munich will only accept cash or EC-cards (like debit cards). Make sure you have enough euros with you for everyday use. The COVID-19 pandemic has dented the German love of cash, but hard currency remains king in these parts.

We’re pretty direct

3.  We’re pretty direct

Germans have a reputation for being very direct, and Bavarians are no exception. If you walk into the bike lane by accident or commit some other faux pas, chances are someone will let you know. This honesty also has some pay-offs, though – if you leave your wallet at a restaurant, someone may well run after you to return it, or if you lose a mitten on the sidewalk, you could find it hanging from a fence or tree near where you left it.

The Bavarian dialect can be tough

4.  The Bavarian dialect can be tough

Pleased you’ll have no issue with dialect because you’re fluent in German? We’ve got bad news. The Bavarian dialect can be tricky to understand even for native Germans. Need a couple starters? Pfiade (goodbye), Rozgloggn (a stuffy nose), Fraibialädschn (a person who’s a big taker but not a very generous giver). That should do you. 

You can surf here sans ocean

5.  You can surf here sans ocean

At the Eisbach  on the Isar river, you’ll see people catching waves whatever the weather – there are other points where the river converges to create a surf wave, but the Eisbach is the most notable and attracts a lot of onlookers. Admittedly, people are more warmly dressed for surfing here than in Hawaii.

Check out more of the best things to do in Munich . 

We’re bananas for Boazn

6.  We’re bananas for Boazn

Want the ultimate local drinking experience? Hit up one of the city’s boazn , Munich’s equivalent of dive bars. They’re mostly quite cosy, with slot machines, neighbourhood drunks and effusive bartenders who can offer you not just a freshly tapped beer but also some life advice.

While you’re at it, check out our guide to the best bars in Munich .  

Sometimes museum visits are just one euro

7.  Sometimes museum visits are just one euro

A museum tour is well worth your time in Munich, as the city is home to many world-class art galleries, science museums and even some obscure offerings including the Kartoffelmuseum (Potato Museum) and the Jagd- und Fischerei-Museum (the Hunting and Fishing Museum). On Sundays, a visit to many of the city’s finest costs only one euro.

Check out more of the best museums in Munich . 

Peruse the outdoor markets

8.  Peruse the outdoor markets

Munich’s famous year-round produce market, the Viktualienmarkt , is where to head for fresh food and brews in a gigantic beer garden. All around the city, other farmers’ markets draw the locals in – check neighbourhood listings to find out what’s closest to you. And in winter, don’t forget to explore the numerous Christkindlmarkts , Munich’s Christmas markets… perhaps a Glühwein (mulled wine) or a Lebkuchen (gingerbread) is in order.

A car is unnecessary in Munich

9.  A car is unnecessary in Munich

Locals do love their BMWs and Mercedes, but you can totally get by without a car in Munich (and frankly, given the cost of petrol and prevalent rush-hour traffic, this is a good idea). Public transport is comprehensive and excellent, most of central Munich is walkable and bike lanes (and rentals) are everywhere and widely used.

No Sunday shopping

10.  No Sunday shopping

Before you plan out your week (or weekend) in Munich, make sure you make note of the fact that most stores (supermarkets included) are closed on Sundays. Stock up on those groceries and plan your vintage shopping trip for another day, folks. Oh and don’t worry, there are emergency supermarkets and a bunch of pharmacies that stay open, so you won’t be stranded. 

You might actually see trachten (traditional German garments)

11.  You might actually see trachten (traditional German garments)

Yes, Munich locals do really wear lederhosen and dirndls (as well as janker , and other classic Bavarian clothing) on special occasions like weddings or going to church. You’re welcome to sport your own tracht if you like – just be aware that a proper, well-made piece is costly. That said, a really good set of trachten  can last for generations.

Take a hike

12.  Take a hike

A huge perk of Munich life is the city’s quick and convenient access to the mountains. Hop on a train and you’ll be at a trailhead in less than an hour. Paths are well marked, and most of them feature Almhütte where you can enjoy a beer surrounded by the mountain air, adorable cows and breathtaking scenery.

Keep an eye out for street art

13.  Keep an eye out for street art

Sometimes Munich comes off as a bit staid and conservative, but the city definitely has an edgy side – which often manifests itself through street art. Local graffiti artists’ work can be found primarily in bike and pedestrian tunnels that run throughout the city centre. You might have to search a little while, but the hunt pays off.

All about that bread

14.  All about that bread

This is not the city for a low carb diet; the bread in Munich is unbeatable. Salty pretzels, dark rye bread, yeast buns with raisins and sourdough are just some of the excellent baked goods you can get in this city. Bakeries abound – so you’ll never lack options. Better yet, find out how to eat like a local in Munich (pretzels included). 

Try a group tour

15.  Try a group tour

Munich has a wide array of city tours you can take to help explore the city and understand its history and culture. Bike tours are particularly popular, as the city is so cycle-friendly, though also worthwhile are walking tours on topics as diverse as the local food scene, the Second World War and Bavaria’s former royalty. And if you’re that way inclined, why not try one of the brewery tours – or another around the BMW manufacturing plant?

Check out a castle

16.  Check out a castle

Munich and its surroundings have several castles that are worth a visit if you want to see how former Bavarian royalty lived. Schloss Nymphenburg, in particular, makes for a decent day trip, as it also features beautiful gardens, a neighbouring science museum, a river brimming with hungry carp, and indoor botanical gardens.

Don’t stop at Oktoberfest

17.  Don’t stop at Oktoberfest

Sure, the city is famous for Oktoberfest, but that’s hardly the only festival worth attending in Munich. The popular Tollwood festival occurs twice yearly (summer and winter) with international food, a circus and live music. Opera, music, theatre and comedy festivals are well attended and often sell out quickly. Just about every neighbourhood also has its own annual street festival, usually with hot food, live music and kids’ activities.

Don’t overlook the airport

18.  Don’t overlook the airport

It’s true that most of the time when you arrive at your destination, you want to get ‘there’ as quickly as possible – which means getting out of the airport. But the Munich airport has quite a bit going on: it has its own brewery, and there’s a giant observation area where you can watch the planes take off, play mini-golf or check out an exhibit on air travel. It also has one of the only supermarkets open in Munich on a Sunday.

Music is everywhere

19.  Music is everywhere

Munich has something for every kind of music lover, from opera (your ticket even includes public transport there and back) and jazz – try catching a show in an unfinished underground station – to huge rock and pop arena gigs. Check out the university offerings as well; there are countless talented student-run orchestras, bands and choral groups.

Treat yourself at an Apotheke

20.  Treat yourself at an Apotheke

Whether you’ve come down with a cold in Munich or are just looking for some fancy French body lotion, the city’s many Apotheken  are here to help. Pharmacists are familiar with the most common ailments and can provide advice as to what sorts of over-the-counter medications might help. At many Apotheken , you can also stock up on all sorts of high-end European skincare products.

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Munich

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Munich, the capital of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany, lies on the River Isar on the fringes of the Bavarian Alps. It began as a monastery, growing into a settlement when the Duke of Bavaria allowed the monks to establish a market at the crossing of the route from Salzburg and the river.

You can still follow the lines of Munich's medieval walls in a ring of curving streets and see three of its impressive old city gates. The focal point of Munich's historic inner city is the large, open square, the Marienplatz , where visitors and locals pause to watch the animated clock play out its legend two or three times daily.

Munich is a fun-loving city, known for its seasonal festivals and rich cultural calendar, so along with visiting the beautiful churches and outstanding museums and palaces, you should spend some time enjoying life with the locals at a festival, a colorful market, or over a slice of one of Munich's famous cakes in a konditorei.

Munich residents also enjoy their many public parks and gardens, in particular, the lovely 900-acre English Garden (Englischer Garten). Spend at least a few days exploring the city, planning your time with the help of this handy list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Munich

1. Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus

2. walk or bike in the englischer garten (english garden), 3. nymphenburg palace and gardens, 4. munich residenz, 5. the olympic park, 6. bmw museum, 7. bmw welt, 8. viktualienmarkt, 9. tierpark hellabrunn (hellabrunn zoo), 10. shop at christmas markets (christkindlmarkts), 11. art museums in the kunstareal district, 12. peterskirche (st. peter's church), 13. hofgarten, 14. deutsches museum, 15. asamkirche (asam church), 16. frauenkirche, 17. michaelskirche (st. michael's church), 18. cuvilliés theater, 19. the theatine church of st. cajetan, where to stay in munich for sightseeing, recommended day trip tours from munich, munich, germany - climate chart.

Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) in the Marienplatz

Marienplatz has been Munich's central square since the city's foundation; the site of medieval jousting tournaments; and until 1807, where markets were held. In addition to the massive Neues Rathaus (New City Hall) that fills one entire side of the square, you'll find the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) forming a gate at the far end.

In the large open square are the Mariensäule , a tall column to the Virgin Mary erected in 1638, and the Fischbrunnen , a newer fountain that includes bronze figures rescued from an earlier 19th-century fountain. Popular with shoppers for its stores, boutiques, and restaurants, Marienplatz is the focus of festivals and scene of a large Christmas Market , one of several in the city. During the Fasching carnival, the Narren-Lindwurm (dragon) dances over the square.

Daily at 11am and noon, and at 5pm from March through October, everyone stops to watch the famous Glockenspiel on the front of the Neues Rathaus, as its mechanical figures dine, joust, and dance. It's one of the city's best-loved traditions, and something you shouldn't miss. Take some time to appreciate the intricate stonework on the Neo-Gothic façade.

It's hard to remember that this building dates only from the late 19th century, completed in 1892. You can ride the elevator to the middle gallery of the building's 85-meter tower for views over the city. The Tourist Information Center is in the Rathaus, and in the back of the building is a restaurant serving traditional Bavarian dishes.

Address: Marienplatz, 80331 München

Monopteros temple in the Englischer Garten (English Garden)

Munich's English Garden is not only the largest city park in Germany - it covers an area of 910 acres - it's also one of the most beautiful. Naturally arranged groups of trees and plants offer ever-changing vistas, and nine kilometers of winding streams and an artificial lake complete the impression of a natural landscape.

Designed in 1785 as a military garden, the English Garden attracts walkers, joggers, and cyclists to its 78 kilometers of pathways and bridle paths. It's also a pleasant place to sunbathe and picnic, and you can stop for a snack or drink at the Chinesischen Turm (Chinese Tower), a 25-meter-tall pagoda.

In 1972, a Japanese garden was created on an island at the southern end of the garden to house an authentic teahouse, a gift in honor of the 1772 Olympics. The park also contains the Bavarian National Museum, with its fine collection of medieval German sculptures and tapestries, and the Bavarian State Archaeological Collection , which displays local prehistoric artifacts.

A curiosity in the park is the Eisbachwelle , a wave created by the emergence of the Eisbach river from its underground course. Crowds gather to watch surfers' stunts; except for experienced surfers, it's a spectator sport and not for beginners.

Nymphenburg Palace

The large Baroque palace of Nymphenburg, in the northwest outskirts of the city, was originally the summer residence of the Wittelsbach Electors in the 17th century. Extending more than 600 meters from wing to wing, this vast palace is surrounded on each side by the Nymphenburg Canal, which splits as it passes around the main buildings before reuniting again in a fountain-adorned pool in front of the main façade.

Your first stop should be the Central Pavilion , a cube-shaped palace in the style of an Italian villa, completed in 1674 and home to the lavishly decorated three-story Stone Hall (Steinerner Saal) and a number of private chambers with fine furnishings and artwork. In the Palace Chapel, notice the expressive ceiling painting illustrating the life of Mary Magdalene. Beside the palace in the former Court Stables, the Marstallmuseum displays a collection of beautiful state coaches.

In the magnificent 17th-century gardens of Nymphenburg Park stands the Amalienburg , a palatial hunting lodge known for its famous Hall of Mirrors. Elsewhere in the gardens are a maze with the Heckentheater (Hedge Theater); marble statues of Greek gods; a large fountain; and a number of hothouses, including the Palm House, which has Germany's first hot-water heating system.

Address: Schloss Nymphenburg 1, 80638 München

Official site: www.schloss-nymphenburg.de/englisch/palace/index.htm

Munich Residenz

For centuries the seat of the dukes, electors, and kings of Bavaria, the Munich Residenz is one of Europe's most spectacular palaces. Laid out around seven large courts, the vast Residenz complex comprises three main sections: the Königsbau , fronting onto Max-Joseph-Platz; the Alte Residenz , facing Residenzstrasse; and the Festsaalbau (Banqueting Hall), overlooking the Hofgarten .

The earliest section of this huge complex was the magnificent Antiquarium, built in 1579 and now part of the outstanding Residenz Museum . The Alte Residenz, a masterpiece of the late Renaissance and testimony to the growing power of Bavaria, followed soon after, and the final components - the Neoclassical Königsbau, the Festsaalbau, and the Court Church - were completed in 1848.

Today, the Residenz houses a number of monuments and museums, including the Residenz Museum, the Treasury, the Court Church of All Saints (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche), and Cuvilliés-Theater. Be sure to explore the palace grounds, too, with its many wonderful old courtyards and arcades.

Address: Residenzstrasse 1, 80333 München

Official site: www.residenz-muenchen.de/englisch/residenc/index.htm

The Olympic Park

Home to the 1972 Summer Olympics, Munich's spectacular Olympic Park covers an area of some 2.7 million square meters on the Oberwiesenfeld, a former training ground for the Royal Bavarian army. Now a major recreational center, this huge facility hosts a variety of major concerts and events, including the summer Tollwood Festival (the winter Tollwood is held at Theresienhöhe, home of the Oktoberfest).

A number of family activities have been added since the Olympics, so you'll find plenty of things to do here. These include a stadium roof climb, ziplining, and behind-the-scenes tours showcasing the facility's splendid architecture and design. The Olympic Tower , a 290-meter-high television tower built in 1968 that was renamed in honor of the games, has viewing platforms in the Aussichtskorb offering breathtaking views over the city.

Address: Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21, 80809 Munich

Official site: http://www.olympiapark.de/en/olympiapark-munich/

BMW Museum in Munich

Next to BMW's soaring headquarters and factories at the Olympic Park is a round contemporary building with a metal shell, housing BMW's museum. Here, car fans will find examples of nearly all the models the company has made, including sports cars, racing models, and motorcycles.

You can see current models and learn about the technology of modern automobile construction, as well as get glimpses of future propulsion technologies and designs the company is exploring. Those who think cars are just for getting from point A to point B might want to skip this one, but for fans of things automotive, it's a must.

Address: Am Olympiapark 2, 80809 München

Official site: https://www.bmw-welt.com/en.html

Architectural detail of the BMW Welt

Not to be confused with the BMW Museum (above), although it's on the same huge manufacturing complex near the Olympic Park, BMW Welt is a gigantic showroom. Here, you can see every vehicle the company makes, sit inside them, and learn what the future cars and motorcycles may look like.

Whereas the BMW Museum is more about past models and history, the Welt is all about now, with an exhibition area and a three-dimensional media façade with immersive visions of the future of mobility. Interactive exhibits consider sustainability and offer insights into the design process. You can take tours of the BMW Group Plant to see the production process.

Opened in 2007, the BMW Welt is the most visited tourist attraction in Bavaria. The building's futuristic steel-and-glass architecture is part of the allure, plus the fact that admission is free.

Address: Am Olympiapark, München

Viktualienmarkt

In 1807, when the farmers market outgrew Marienplatz, it was moved to the nearby square, where it thrived and expanded, until today it covers 22,000 square meters and includes a butchers' hall, bakery, fish hall, and flower market in addition to its fruit and vegetable vendors.

It's not just a place for locals to buy items for the night's dinner. Fresh breads and pastries, wheels of cheese, and cured meats are good picnic makings, and tables and benches provide a place for shoppers and visitors to sit while they eat sizzling sausages, hot pretzels, and other foods prepared in mobile kitchens.

Above the market stands a colorful maypole , with traditionally dressed figures representing the various crafts and trades that were practiced in this part of town.

Lion at the Tierpark Hellabrunn (Hellabrunn Zoo)

Spread across 89 acres, Hellabrunn Zoo is consistently ranked among the best zoos in Europe. Laid out in 1911, it was the first zoo in the world to have animals grouped according to where they came from.

Today, more than 19,000 animals from 757 species are held in open enclosures meant to replicate the conditions of the wild, with animals that normally share habitats kept together wherever possible.

Popular features include the Elephant House (now a listed building), the enormous 5,000-square-meter free-flight aviary, the Polarium, and ape houses. Located adjacent to the Isar River in a designated conservation area, the zoo has many delightful footpaths, playgrounds, and picnic spots.

Address: Tierparkstrasse 30, 81543 München

Christmas market in Marienplatz

From the last week in November until December 24 , the parks and squares of Munich turn into a colorful, sparkling Christmas extravaganza of colored lights, evergreen boughs, and holiday music. Colorful frosted gingerbread hearts decorate little cabins filled with candies, cookies, wooden toys, Christmas tree ornaments, and holiday baubles, as well as local handcrafts in all mediums.

The largest market is in Marienplatz , where local chorales serenade shoppers with Christmas music. Two blocks away, at the Rindermarkt, the market is filled with figures and accessories for crèche scenes. Miniature shepherds, wisemen, angels, animals, and the holy family are in every imaginable media: delicate Alpine woodcarvings from nearby Oberammergau, ceramic, terra-cotta pottery, wax, and plastic.

One of the most charming is the Christmas village inside the courtyard of the Residenz, where a children's theater and bakers turning out hot treats add to the appeal. Not far away, an entire square turns into a Medieval Marketplace, where artisans and craftspeople dressed in costumes of the Middle Ages demonstrate and sell authentic period goods.

Wherever you go, you will find traditional lebkuchen (gingerbread) from Nuremberg - sold at Munich's first Christmas markets in the 1600s and still favorites today.

Read More: Top-Rated Christmas Markets in Germany

The Glyptothek

Königsplatz was laid out in Neoclassical style in 1862, and in the art district around it, you'll find one of the finest groups of art museums anywhere in Europe. First are the three Pinakothek art galleries: the Old Picture Gallery (Alte Pinakothek), with its fine collections of Dutch, Flemish, Italian, French, German, Spanish, and medieval paintings; the New Picture Gallery (Neue Pinakothek), with its displays of art ranging from Rococo to Art Nouveau; and the State Gallery of Modern Art (Pinakothek der Moderne), which includes works by Picasso and Warhol.

Other museums of note are the Glyptothek and the State Antiquities Collection (Staatliche Antikensammlung), with their large compilations of ancient sculptures and antiquities.

The latest addition to this treasury of art is Lenbachhaus , an Italianate villa that was the home and studio of artist Franz von Lenbach. The villa and its new extension house the world's foremost collection of works by the Blue Rider movement, a group of Expressionist painters led by Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc.

Address: Königsplatz 1, 80333 München

Peterskirche (St. Peter's Church)

Known affectionately as Old Peter, St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) is Munich's oldest parish church and stands on Petersberg, a small hill originally settled by monks. Built in Gothic style in 1386, the church was altered with the addition of a Baroque choir with three apses in 1636, while the tower was given a lantern dome in place of its earlier Gothic spires.

Interior highlights include the font by Hans Krumper, the red marble monuments by Erasmus Grasser, and the 15th-century Schrenk Altar with its sculptures of the Crucifixion and the Last Judgment. Also of note is the 20-meter-tall 18th-century high altar with its figures of the Four Fathers of the Church and St. Peter.

The panel-paintings on the choir walls by Jan Polack are also worth seeing, as is the highly regarded Altar of the Virgin of Mercy (Mariahilf-Altar) from 1756. Finally, the 299-step tower - famous for its eight clock faces matched by eight bells - reaches a height of 91 meters and offers panoramic views as far as the Alps for those with the stamina to climb the 306 steps.

Address: Rindermarkt 1, 80331 München

Colorful flowers blooming at the Hofgarten (Court Garden)

In the center of Munich, just off Odeonsplatz, the Hofgarten (Court Garden) was built between 1613 and 1617 , adjoining the Residenz and for the sole use of the court. It remained a private preserve for more than 160 years, opening to the public in 1780.

Since then this peaceful sanctuary with its intersecting paths, fountains, beds of bright flowers, and shaded arcades have been a favorite place for locals and visitors to stroll and relax. The focal point is the central pavilion, featuring eight arches, with paths radiating from each one to form beds for lawns and flowers. Fountains mark the points where the paths intersect.

Modeled on Italian Renaissance gardens when it was designed, the Hofgarten became more like the then-popular landscape gardens during the 19 th century. After its destruction in World War II, it was rebuilt to more resemble the original.

Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is the world's largest museum of technology, and its 17,000 artifacts illustrate exhibits that range from the polished wood and brass of early astronomical instruments to the latest science on global warming. The museum is a constant time travel between early tech and high tech, as you follow the development of each scientific and technical discipline from its beginnings to the present.

The extensive collections relating to transport are astonishing, covering trains, aircraft, shipping, cars, even bicycles. You can see a replica of the Red Baron's biplane from the First World War, examine a Venetian gondola up close, and look inside a 19th-century wooden fishing boat. There's always something happening, from dramatic demonstrations of electricity to concerts showing how musical instruments work.

Kids' Kingdom is filled with clever hands-on activities designed for children ages three through eight, exploring light, music, ships, computers, water, sound, astronomy, and more. It is Germany's most popular museum and a favorite place to visit for families.

Address: Museumsinsel 1, 80538 München

Official site: www.deutsches-museum.de/en

Asamkirche (Asam Church)

The beautiful Rococo Asam Church, dedicated to St. John of Nepomuk, was completed in 1746 by brothers Cosmas and Egid Asam and is richly decorated with stucco figures, frescoes, and oil paintings. While its exterior is impressive enough, particularly the large doorway flanked by massive columns and crowned by a figure of St. John kneeling in prayer, it's the interior that's most memorable.

Highlights include a wrought-iron grille from 1776 that separates the stucco figures of the saints from the long nave with its galleries. On the projecting cornice under the ceiling is a magnificent fresco depicting the life of St. John. The most notable feature of the interior, though, is the high altar, enclosed by four twisted columns and on which sits a glass shrine containing a wax figure of the church's patron saint.

Address: Sendlinger Straße 32, 80331 München

Frauenkirche

Munich's huge brick Frauenkirche - the Cathedral Church of Our Lady - was completed in 1488, a Late Gothic church that owes its impact to its great size. Massive twin 100-meter-tall towers, with their characteristic Renaissance domes, tower over a high building 109 meters long by 40 meters wide.

Highlights inside the cathedral include the 1622 Tomb of the Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian in black marble with bronze figures, a 1620 altarpiece of the Assumption by Peter Candid, and the Baroque red marble font in the Baptistery with its early 14th-century Sorrowing Christ.

A popular curiosity is the strange footprint in the floor of the porch, said to have been left by the devil after he came to inspect the church. So delighted was he that the windows seemed to have been forgotten (the row of columns hides them when the church is viewed from the entrance), he stamped his foot, leaving the footprint that can still be seen today.

The twin towers of Frauenkirche are a good landmark for orientation, visible from all over the city. You can climb to the top for views across the city to the Bavarian Alps.

Address: Frauenplatz 12, 80331 München

  • Read More: Exploring Munich's Frauenkirche (The Cathedral of Our Lady)

Michaelskirche (St. Michael's Church)

The largest Renaissance church north of the Alps, St. Michael's was completed in 1597, with a high barrel-vaulted roof in the nave. The pattern of the triumphal arch at the entrance to the choir is continued in the arches of the transepts, side chapels, and galleries. The three-story-high altar has an altarpiece, St. Michael Fighting the Devil , from 1587.

The four bronze reliefs dating from 1595 were intended for the tomb of Duke William V, while in the side chapels are some fine paintings and a precious reliquary of Saints Cosmas and Damian from around 1400.

The church's historical importance is in the Royal Crypt (Fürstengruft) underneath the choir, where 41 members of the House of Wittelsbach - among them Duke Wilhelm V, the church's patron; Elector Maximilian I; and King Ludwig II - are buried.

Address: Neuhauser Straße 6, 80333 München

Cuvillies Theater

On the east side of the Residenz in Munich, the Cuvilliés Theater was built in 1755 and is the finest example of a Rococo theater with tiered boxes in Germany. The magnificent carved woodwork of the auditorium, with its four tiers of boxes, including one built especially for the electors, was safely stored away during WWII, thus allowing its reconstruction in 1958.

Architecturally stunning, the rare elegance and rich hues of its intimate Rococo interior makes it a truly unique setting for operas such as Mozart's Idomeneo, which premiered here in 1781, and which, along with many other Late Baroque period operas, is still performed on occasion. You can visit the theater separately or on a combined ticket with the Residenz and its museums.

Address: Residenzstraße 1, 80539 München

Official site: http://www.residenz-muenchen.de/englisch/cuv/

The Theatine Church of St. Cajetan

The Theatine Church of St. Cajetan (Theatinerkirche St. Kajetan), a basilica built in the style of the Italian High Baroque, was completed in 1690, with a stunning façade, twin towers, a massive 71-meter-high dome, and richly decorated interior. Exterior highlights include numerous marble statues of saints and the lantern with a lion weathervane atop the dome.

The interior, dominated by the tall round-headed arches of the barrel vaulting and the dome over the crossing, is washed in white, with rich stucco ornamentation. Other interior highlights include the high altar, with its picture of The Virgin Enthroned with Angels from 1646 by Caspar de Crayer (a pupil of Rubens), and the Altar of the Virgin, with a painting of the Holy Kinship from 1676. In the Ducal Burial Vault, you'll see the tombs of members of the House of Wittelsbach, long-time rulers of Bavaria.

Address: Salvatorplatz 2a, 80333 München

All that remains of the medieval walls that once enclosed Munich's Altstadt (old town) are the impressive gates at Karlstor, Sendlinger Tor, and Isartor, but the broad, curving streets that replaced them still define the historic center. It's here that you'll find most tourist attractions, with Marienplatz at its center. Major museums lie just outside the compact center. Most of these highly rated hotels in Munich are an easy walk from Marienplatz:

Luxury Hotels :

  • Near the Isartor and 10 minutes from Marienplatz, Hotel Torbraeu has nicely furnished rooms in a historic building.
  • In the heart of the old city overlooking Viktualienmarkt, near the daily food and flower market, Louis Hotel offers spacious, stylish rooms and a sauna/fitness area.
  • A pool and sauna are added benefits at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munchen , set amid high-end shops on the uber-fashionable Maximilianstrasse, a five-minute walk from Marienplatz.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Locations simply don't get any better than Platzl Hotel , next to the Residenz palace and museums and a few steps from Marienplatz and shopping streets. Breakfast is included, and the beautifully furnished rooms have thoughtful amenities. Two blocks from the Residenz palace and museums and close to Marienplatz,
  • Maximilian Munich is on a quiet street, with some rooms overlooking a garden courtyard.
  • The hospitable Hotel Mirabell offers well-furnished rooms in a neighborhood beside the main train station, just off Karlsplatz and the entrance to the old town.

Budget Hotels:

  • Family-friendly Hotel Biederstein is opposite the English Garden in the lively Schwabing neighborhood; a buffet breakfast is included.
  • Breakfast is included at Jedermann Hotel , a 15-minute walk from the old town but on a tram line to its center.
  • Near Sendlinger Tor and the Rococo-style Asamkirche and a ten-minute walk from Marienplatz, Acanthushotel has small, comfortable rooms.
  • Contemporary guest rooms at Schwan Locke are large, some with kitchenettes. The hotel is close to the main train station and within walking distance of Karlsplatz and Marienplatz.
  • Just two hours by train from Munich is the beautiful city of Salzburg; birthplace of Mozart and the setting of the film The Sound of Music. If you have time to add this city to your itinerary, the Salzburg Small Group Day Tour from Munich is a hassle free, comfortable, and fun way to see Salzburg in a day. This tour includes a scenic rail journey, a walking tour of Salzburg, and free time to wander the historic streets on your own.

Castle Tours:

  • To see some of Germany's beautiful castles, there are a couple of options: The Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Day Tour from Munich takes you on a full-day tour to the Bavarian Mountains to see the Neuschwanstein Castle, used as a model for Disney's Sleeping Beauty, and the Linderhof hunting lodge castle. The slightly shorter Neuschwanstein Castle Small Group Day Tour includes just one castle. Note that both of these tours exclude entrance fees to the castles.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site :

  • The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Small Group Tour from Munich is a five-hour trip with a professional guide to this memorial site, set on the grounds of the former concentration camp. The tour includes round-trip transportation and a guide.

Munich Map - Tourist Attractions

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25 Best Things to Do in Munich (Germany)

Bavaria’s capital is a cocktail of beloved sights, opulent Baroque churches and museums of the highest order. Munich’s Kunstareal is a cluster of art museums with so many masterpieces it’s difficult to know where to begin. A week would never be enough to see all of them, and these invaluable collections were assembled by the Wittelsbach monarchs who ruled Bavaria up to the 20th century.

Their palaces in the city are two of the many glorious monuments to take in, and you’ll catch sight of Alps from the top of the Rathaus and St Peter’s Church. Munich is also the city of some world-famous German exports like BMW, FC Bayern and the incomparable Oktoberfest, more than two weeks of beer-fuelled merrymaking every Autumn.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Munich :

1. Alte Pinakothek

Alte Pinakothek

Dating to 1836, the Alte Pinakothek is one of the world’s oldest art galleries.

The museum’s Neo-Renaissance design would be a model for galleries that sprouted in Brussels, Rome and St Petersburg.

It was all ordered by King Ludwig I to house the Wittelsbach dynasty’s exceptional collection, started by Duke Wilhelm IV back in the 1500s.

The upshot is 800 German, French, Dutch, Flemish, Italian and Spanish paintings from the 1200s to the 1800s, of superlative quality.

The masters who take the spotlight are Peter Paul Rubens, Albrecht Dürer and van Dyck, all represented by multiple paintings.

And on your way, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, Hans Baldung Grien, Hieronymous Bosch and Rembrandt are just a few of the many prestigious names you’ll encounter.

2. Munich Residenz

Munich Residenz

What began as a 14th-century castle for the Wittelsbach monarchs on the northern edge of the city burgeoned over the course of several hundred years into a sublime palace complex of ten courtyards and 130 rooms.

Successive dukes, emperors, princes and kings all made grand statements in the Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles.

Given the size of the palace and the richness of its art, the Munich Residenz is a sight to do in several visits if you can.

But a few musts to tick off are the Italian Renaissance Grotto Courtyard, the lavishly adorned Antiquarium banquet hall and the gilded mouldings in the Baroque Ancestral Gallery.

3. Neues Rathaus

Neues Rathaus

A postcard favourite, Munich’s town hall on Marienplatz is a Gothic Revival wonder, a monument worthy of the city.

The facade is festooned with pinnacles, niches with little trefoil arches and statues of the first four Bavarian kings on the bay of the tower.

Munich’s population doubled in less than 20 years between 1880 and 1900, and the Neues Rathaus, which was originally completed in 1874 had to be expanded barely 20 years after it was finished.

That facade is 100 metres long and the building was extended to 400 rooms, and you can go in to scale the 85-metre where you can see to the Alps on cloudless days.

Since 1908 the Glockenspiel has chimed each day at 11:00 and 12:00, and then 17:00 (from March to October), with automatons acting out episodes from the 1600s.

4. Englischer Garten

Englischer Garten Munich

Scanning a map of the city, you’ll be struck by the size of the Englischer Garten.

Created in the 18th century, the park begins on the left bank of the Isar in the north behind the Residenz and just seems to go on and on.

At 370 hectares this expanse of lawns, tree groves, pasture, waterways and a lake is one of the world’s largest urban parks, bigger than New York’s Central Park.

There are some neat little sights to take in, like a Japanese teahouse added for the Olympics in 1972 and the Chinese Tower based on Kew Gardens’ pagoda and first erected in 1790. But something you may not have expected to come across is surfing: Yes, the man-made Eisbach River has a strong current, forming a static wave that experienced boarders ride for up to a minute at a time.

5. Neue Pinakothek

Neue Pinakothek Munich

King Ludwig I also had an eye for the contemporary art of the 19th century and amassed many invaluable pieces from the period.

Some 400 paintings from the 1800s are on show in the Neue Pinakothek, and they tick off all of the influential movements from the century.

There are German Romantics like Caspar David Friedrich and Karl Friedrich Schinkel, French Realists such as Delacroix and Courbet, and Impressionist Art by Degas, Cézanne, Monet, Gauguin and Renoir.

After that you can go slow and study each movement in detail, or scoot across periods to the other masterpieces by Goya, Rodin, Klimt, Munch and Turner.

6. Marienplatz

Marienplatz

In any season, Marienplatz in front of the Neues Rathaus will be brimming with locals and tourists out shopping, sightseeing or just watching the city go by.

The square has been at the centre of the city since the 12th century and is named for a Marian column that was raised here in the 17th century.

The monument is from 1638 and celebrates the withdrawal of Swedish troops from Munich during the 30 Years’ War.

The golden statue at the top is older, sculpted in 1590 and showing Mary on a crescent moon as the Queen of Heaven.

This was the first Marian column north of the Alps, and the forerunner for a host of similar monuments in Bavaria and Central Europe.

Come in December, when the Christmas market is in full swing.

7. St Peter’s Church

St Peter's Church

Munich’s oldest church was first built at the end of the 1100s but destroyed by fire in 1347. The reconstruction was in the Gothic style and down the years there have been many extensions, leaving the St Peter’s with Renaissance and Baroque elements.

That fusion of styles applies to the art, as 15th-century Gothic paintings by Jan Polack sit below a marvellous Late Baroque ceiling fresco by Johann Baptist Zimmermann.

Go in for a closer look at the high altar, which has a figure of St Peter sculpted by Erasmus Grasser at the turn of the 16th century.

St Peter’s church rests atop the hillock, Petersbergl and it’s worthwhile tackling the tower’s 299 steps to spend a few minutes pointing out Munich’s landmarks with the help of a telescope.

8. Deutsches Museum

Deutsches Museum

Like the Alte Pinakothek the Deutsches Museum could easily keep you occupied for an entire day.

The museum sits on an island in the Isar (the Museumsinsel) and maps the development of Science and Technology in Germany.

What will keep you engrossed is the sheer variety of fields dealt with in these galleries, from nanotechnology to reproduction, aerospace and astronomy to hydraulic engineering.

If you only have a couple of hours to spare you’ll need to plan ahead and focus on one or two things.

Every field has well-presented and fully interactive exhibits, inviting kids to push buttons, crank wheels and pull levers.

And while younger minds are catered for and there’s even a fun kids’ zone, the museum never shies away from the complicated details.

9. Pinakothek der Moderne

Pinakothek der Moderne

Although it’s known locally as the “Dritte” (third), after the Alte and Neue Pinakothek, Munich’s modern art museum is just as essential.

As with its neighbours in the Kunstreal, the galleries are comprehensive and stocked with art by the most celebrated names of the last 100 years.

The best bit is the Expressionism exhibition from both the Brücke and Blaue Reiter groups, and artists like Kirchner, Kandinsky, Klee, Franz Marc and Emil Nolde will be familiar to all.

In rest of the Modernism galleries you’ll come across Francis Bacon, Braque, Otto Dix, Picasso, Magritte, Max Ernst and Joan Miró.

And then bringing you from the 1960s to the present day are the contemporary galleries abounding with art by Sigmar Polke, Andy Warhol, David Hockney and Lucio Fontana among others.

And beyond all this there are exhibitions for applied art/industrial design, photography, drawings and architecture.

10. Lenbachhaus

Lenbachhaus

At the dawn of the 20th century Munich had a vibrant and influential art scene, when the Blaue Reiter (Blue Rider) group shook up the old academies.

Many leading Expressionists were members, including Kandinsky, Franz Marc, Gabriele Münter and August Macke, and the Lenbachaus brims with their paintings.

There’s also great deal of contemporary art by the likes of Gerhard Richter, Andy Warhol and Jenny Holzer.

The museum’s roll-call of Munich-based artists goes back to the Gothic painter Jan Polack and including the portrait painter Georg Desmarées, the landscape artists Carl Anton Joseph Rottmann and the Biedermeier luminary Carl Spitzweg.

The Lenbachhaus is named for the portrait painter Franz von Lenbach who commissioned the building in the 1880s.

In 2013 a new wing was added, clad with copper and aluminium tubes.

11. Asam Church

Asam Church, Munich

An easy walk from the Sendlinger Tor at the southern tip of old Munich is an extravagant Late Baroque church wedged in a confined space between neighbouring buildings.

The Asam Church is named after its mid-18th-century designers, the brothers Asam, one a painter and the other a sculptor.

An interesting thing about the church is that it was a private chapel, unattached to any religious order.

This, along with the narrow space, gave the brothers freedom to break a few Baroque rules for layout and interior decoration.

The church faces west for instance, and the crucifix opposite the pulpit is hung unusually low.

These quirks and the skill of the radiant ceiling frescos and workmanship in the stuccowork lining the nave add up to one of the foremost buildings in the German Late Baroque style.

12. Frauenkirche

Frauenkirche

Although there are prettier churches in Munich, none possess the 15th-century Frauenkirche’s sense of scale.

Its pair of towers, crowned with onion domes are a Munich landmark, and no new building is permitted to exceed their 109-metre height.

The church’s design is famously discreet, with few window openings and unadorned walls that inspire awe.

The Frauenkirche suffered in the war, but there’s still a lot of restored or original art to seek out inside.

The choir stalls from the start of the 16th century are sculpted with busts of prophets and apostles, and some of the stained glass windows are from the medieval church that stood on the site before this one.

There’s also a tomb monument to Louis IV the 14th-century Holy Roman Emperor, and see a shoe-shaped impression at the entrance, supposedly left by the devil!

13. Theatine Church

Theatine Church

At Odeonplatz you’ll be greeted by the splendid yellow facade of the 17th-century Theatine Church.

This monument was designed by Italian architects in the Baroque style and took cues from Rome’s Sant’Andrea della Valle.

Give yourself time to marvel at the painted facade, rich with niches, reliefs, Doric columns and Ionic pilasters.

It’s all the product of a holy vow given by Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, if she could give birth to a crown prince for the Elector Ferdinand Maria.

Through the doors, keep an eye out for the altar with images of the evangelists from 1722, the black wooden pulpit dating to 1688 and the crypt, resting place of several members of the Wittelsbach family.

14. Bavarian National Museum

Bavarian National Museum

Inaugurated by King Maximilian II in 1855, the Bavarian Museum is another cultural attraction that needs a lot of time.

In store here are more than 40 rooms of decorative items, dating from antiquity to Art Nouveau at the start of the 20th century.

There’s faience, weapons, armour, porcelain, oil paintings, musical instruments, furniture, clocks, costumes tableware and a whole lot more besides.

The high points are the Bollert Collection, a trove of Late Gothic and Renaissance and sculpture from religious buildings around Bavaria, and the set of Rococo Nymphenburg porcelain figures by the Swiss modeller Franz Anton Buselli.

The Historicist museum building also deserves a mention as it was purpose-built to complement the collections at the end of the 1890s.

15. BMW Museum

BMW Museum

Karl Schwanzer, the man who designed the famous BMW Headquarters also drew up the plans for the futuristic museum building in front, often described as the “salad bowl”. The building was completed in 1973 and its galleries are on a Guggenheim-esque spiral.

The showrooms are air, spacious and effortlessly cool, as you go on a journey through the brand’s technological development.

There are vintage cars, aircraft, motorcycles, turbines, engines as well as outlandish concept vehicles from the last two decades, all accompanied with information via multimedia.

Did you know Elvis Presley owned a BMW? Well he did and it’s on show here.

16. BMW Welt

BMW Welt

After learning about BMW’s past you can be brought up to date with the present at the stylish exhibition hall next door.

BMW Welt is free to enter and the best explanation is that it’s the world’s most spectacular car dealership showroom.

People come to pick up their new BMWs, which is a spectacle in its own right as their car is lifted up to them by elevator into a glass hall.

You can take a close look at all of the BMW models currently on the market, get behind the wheel and even book a test drive.

If one steals your heart you can order it here for delivery to most parts of the world, or shop for BMW souvenirs and accessories at the shop.

17. Glyptothek

Glyptothek, Munich

Our final museum in the Kunstareal would be a priority in almost any other city, which testifies to the volume of art and history in this quarter.

The Glyptothek is a Neoclassical temple ordered by King Ludwig I as a repository for his Greek and Roman sculpture collection.

The building was completed in 1830, making it the oldest museum in Munich.

There’s more than 1,000 years of sculpture within, spanning the Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic Periods as well as the Roman Empire.

The Hellenistic Barnerini Faun is one to look out for, depicting a life-sized faun and sculpted around the turn of the 2nd Century BC. From Roman times there’s an assortment of busts of emperors like Emperor Augustus, Nero, Caligula and Traian, and the statesmen Sulla and Gaius Marius.

18. Olympiapark

Olympiapark, Munich

While many former Olympic venues around the world tend to be forgotten, Munich’s 1972 Olympic Park is still a popular day out.

The park is a massive activity centre where you can ride a zip-line over the iconic stadium, take part in watersports on the lake and ski on the hill in winter.

There are also fairground amusements in summer, and no lack of places to grab a snack or meal.

The park has also witnessed some historic events, one grim, like the Munich massacre of 11 Israeli team members in 1972, and you can still visit Building 31 where the Israeli team was staying.

On a lighter note the Olympic stadium was also the scene of one of the most memorable World Cup finals in 1974, when Beckenbauer’s Germany came from behind to defeat Johan Cruyff’s Netherlands 2-1.

19. Allianz Arena

Allianz Arena

Even if you only have a passing interest in football, a visit to the home of FC Bayern has to be on the agenda.

That’s not just because they’re Germany’s top team and have a special place in the nation’s culture, but they also moved into an awesome new home just over a decade ago.

The 66,000-seater stadium is clad with 2,874 luminous panels, which light up with the club’s colours on match-days.

The Allianz Arena’s hour-long tour is an all-access experience, guiding you in to the dressing rooms, player’s tunnel, mixed zone where post-match interviews are given and the press conference room.

After that you can spend some time in the museum acquainting yourself with Bayern’s greatest players like Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller and Lothar Matthäus, and reliving the club’s five Champions League/European Cup victories.

Recommended tour : FC Bayern München Football and Allianz Arena Tour

20. Munich National Theatre

Munich National Theatre

The Neoclassical National Theatre on Max-Joseph-Platz is one of Europe’s top opera houses and the home venue of the Bavarian State Ballet, Bavarian State Orchestra and the Bavarian State Opera.

The current design and its majestic portico is from 1825, and although the building was devastated in the war it was rebuilt to the architect Karl von Fischer’s 19th-century plans in the 1960s.

Opera fans who aren’t able to get tickets could still arrange a German language tour to see the stunning multi-storey backstage area, and find out more about the people who have graced this building: A number of Richard Wagner’s operas debuted at the National Theatre, like Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Das Rhengold and Die Walküre.

21. Müller’sches Volksbad

Müller'sches Volksbad

If a swimming pool sounds a bit anticlimactic, the Müller’sches Volksbad on the right bank of the Isar is anything but a disappointment, especially if you have a taste for Art Nouveau design.

The pool is also the closest thing to a secret, in-the-know experience on our list.

There’s no equivalent in Germany, and every step of the banal activity of going for a swim and sauna session is made exciting by Carl Hochede’s Classical motifs, patterned stucco flourishes on the ceilings, whimsical lamp holders and wrought iron banisters.

22. Hofbräuhaus

Hofbräuhaus Munich

If you’re up for a beer, a carefree atmosphere and helping of traditional Bavarian fare a beer hall or Wirtshaus would be just the ticket.

There are dozens to choose from around Munich and with a little research you’ll find an authentic one near you.

And even though you won’t find many locals in the Hofbräuhaus, it’s still one of those things you have to do in Munich.

It’s an annexe of the Staatliches Hofbräuhaus brewery, which was located here from 1589 until 1897 when it relocated to the suburbs.

One of the many eminent regulars at the beer hall was Mozart, who lived just around the corner in the 18th century.

On the wall you’ll notice beer steins belonging to regulars, which are kept under lock and key.

Order a litre glass of lager, malty dark beer or Weißbier to go with a Wienerschnitzel or Weißwurst.

Tip : Included in the Munich Third Reich Tour

23. Viktualienmarkt

Viktualienmarkt

The city’s food market was relocated here in 1807 when it grew too big for Marienplatz.

First and foremost is Viktualienmarkt is somewhere for people to do their grocery shopping, made up of 140 indoor and outdoor stalls and shops selling fresh fruit and vegetables, sausage, cheese and fancier specialty foods like olive oil, wine and tea.

But that is only half the story, as there’s a big biergarten in the centre of the marketplace, and one of Munich’s favourites.

If you’re peckish there’s a tantalising choice of food stalls or you could pick up a schnitzel or wurst from the biergarten’s own self-service restaurant.

Suggested tour : Viktualienmarkt 2-Hour Gourmet Food Tour: Munich

24. Hellabrunn Zoo

Hellabrunn Zoo

In 40 hectares on the meadow-covered right bank of the Isar in the south of the city, Hellabrunn Zoo rarely ranks outside the top five in Europe.

Established in 1911, it was one of the first in world to adopt moats and ditches as barriers instead of cages, but also introduced the concept of the Geo-Zoo, where animals are located according to their geographical regions.

If you’re concerned about the zoo’s humane credentials, it takes part in breeding programs for endangered species like silvery and drill baboons, as well as elephants, Arctic foxes and gorillas.

Alpacas, polar bears, South American sea lions and giraffes are a few of the 760-odd species.

And little ones can come and feed pygmy goats and Damara goats at two separate petting zoos.

25. Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest Munich

Some of the figures associated with the world’s biggest beer festival are mind-blowing.

We’re talking seven million visitors and more than 7.5 million litres of beer consumed.

The 16-18-day festival begins on the third Saturday of September and goes back to 1810, when Prince Ludwig married Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

In 1896 the city’s breweries built gigantic beer tents for the celebration, and since then beer-drinking has been the main activity! There are 14 tents permanently set up at Theresienwiese in the west of the city, holding up to 8,500 revellers each.

Despite the capacity these tents fill up fast, so get there early in the day if you want a seat.

Also have a ball at the amusements and funfair rides, and be sure to soak up that alcohol with pretzels, bratwurst and schnitzel.

Book online : Munich: Oktoberfest

Suggested day trips from Munich :

  • Day Trip to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles
  • Dachau Concentration Camp Half-Day Tour from Munich
  • Salzburg Day Trip from Munich by Train
  • Romantic Road and Rothenburg from Munich

25 Best Things to Do in Munich (Germany):

  • Alte Pinakothek
  • Munich Residenz
  • Neues Rathaus
  • Englischer Garten
  • Neue Pinakothek
  • Marienplatz
  • St Peter's Church
  • Deutsches Museum
  • Pinakothek der Moderne
  • Lenbachhaus
  • Asam Church
  • Frauenkirche
  • Theatine Church
  • Bavarian National Museum
  • Olympiapark
  • Allianz Arena
  • Munich National Theatre
  • Müller'sches Volksbad
  • Hofbräuhaus
  • Viktualienmarkt
  • Hellabrunn Zoo
  • Oktoberfest

Everything you need to know before you travel to Munich

Kate Mann

Jul 12, 2023 • 6 min read

tourism in munich germany

Take heed of this easy advice from a Munich adoptee to enjoy your trip © Henglein and Steets / Getty Images

Munich, Germany’s third-largest metropolis, is a city of tankards and tech, artworks and eccentricity. It's generally a safe place to visit, and few travelers have problems.

While you can get by using common sense and street smarts, following our tips will make your trip to Munich go even more smoothly.

Bavarian cafes on the Wiener Platz.

Bring euros in cash

Although many places in Munich accept cards, smaller stores, market stalls and local food shops such as bakeries and butchers still run on cash. You may also encounter coin-only ticket machines on public transport. To avoid having to make a hasty tram exit or missing out on an irresistible baked good, it’s best to have some euros in your pocket at all times.

Reserve ahead at restaurants

If you want to eat at a particular restaurant during your trip, it's worth booking a table before you travel. Whether local favorites, such as Broeding , or big names, such as Tantris and EssZimmer , popular eateries fill up fast. This is especially the case on Friday and Saturday nights, meaning you could get turned away if you don't have a reservation. 

Be aware of store closing times

Germany has strict rules on business operating hours, and most stores are closed on Sundays. For locals, Sunday is a day for rest or for spending time with friends and family. For basic groceries, you can head to gas stations and kiosks, as well as supermarkets in major train stations and at the airport, all of which are excluded from this regulation. These places are also open later in the evening during the week, when other shops must close by 8pm. Some bakeries and museum gift shops are also open on Sunday. 

The same opening hours apply to public holidays; if a holiday falls on a Saturday, stores will be closed all weekend. If retail therapy is on your vacation agenda, make sure you plan accordingly.

Tourists and guides outside New Town Hall at Marienplatz Square

Pack clothing for all kinds of weather

The weather in Munich can change quickly and requires a diverse selection of accessories. Hot summer afternoons can bring sudden downpours or thunderstorms, while crisp winter mornings often call for gloves and sunglasses. Check the forecast before you travel and pack for all eventualities.

Get acquainted with the local German accent

Munich is a thoroughly international city, and you'll often be able to find somebody who speaks English, but some German phrases will help you get by in places that are less frequented by tourists. In some spots, you may be greeted with a strong local accent. Note that " Servus " and " Gruß Gott " are more common greetings than " Hallo " or " Guten Tag " in some areas.

Respect the green man

It’s not unusual to see people waiting patiently at pedestrian crossings in Munich, even in the absence of traffic. Jaywalking is illegal in Germany and can result in a (small) fine; however, this rule is hardly needed considering the local respect for regulations. Those who dare to cross when the light is still red should reckon with judgmental glares, indiscreet muttering or perhaps some stern words from others patiently waiting at the side of the road – particularly when children are around.

Crowded interior of the Hofbrauhaus pub in Munich

Get ready to announce your tip to the whole table

In bars and restaurants, the bill will be brought to the table, and this is where you pay – tip and all. Before handing over your cash or card, you'll need to work out the full amount you wish to pay (rounding up to include a tip of around 10%) and announce this total to the waiter and anyone else in earshot. Tips are typically rolled into the bill; money left on the table after paying may not reach the staff.

Be ready for a mark-up when buying drinks

If a grocery store bill or a round of drinks seems more expensive than you anticipated, this could be because of the Pfand (deposit). In places such as beer gardens or Christmas markets, a few euros are normally added per glass to encourage you to return your empties to a designated area once you’re finished. Deposits are often returned in exchange for a token handed out when you pay.

In grocery stores, kiosks and drinks shops, a smaller deposit often applies to bottles and cans. To get your money back, you can return empty containers to the same store or others that accept them. Some shops have machines that scan the empty bottles and give you a receipt to take to the cash desk for reimbursement.

Be diligent about buying tickets on public transport

Rather than employing ticket barriers at stations, Munich’s public transport system relies on stringent spot checks. These are often carried out by groups of plain-clothed staff, and riding without a ticket on buses, trams and trains can result in hefty, non-negotiable fines. You can find full details of the fine system on the Münchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund (MVV) website.

When traveling, you should buy a ticket at the earliest opportunity, either at the station or, if that’s not possible, from an onboard machine as soon as you get on. Sometimes you’ll still need to validate ( entwerten ) your ticket after you purchase it. Look out for the little blue boxes in stations or on public transport that you can use to stamp your ticket.

Young businessman riding bicycle in Munich, Bavaria, Germany

Ding ding! Watch out for speedy cyclists

Munich has an excellent and well-used system of bike lanes, and you can download maps online. These lanes are either located on the side of the road or on part of the sidewalk. In the latter case, it is quite easy to accidentally wander into the space allocated for bikes, but this is highly inadvisable.

Many cyclists, especially those on e-bikes, travel at high speeds and may not be able to stop in time. Family bikes with boxes for children, in particular, have quite some weight behind them. Luckily, all bikes are required to have bells by law, and riders aren’t afraid to use them – if you hear a ding, move out of the way quickly!

Yes, you can drink the water

The beer is excellent, but the tap water is good too. Indeed, it pays to rehydrate if you've had a big evening on the Bavarian beer. The tap water in Munich is fine to drink and can help with hangovers!

Illuminated Taxi Signs on Maximilian street

Munich is generally safe, but stay streetwise

Munich has a reputation for being a safe place to travel, and few travelers have any serious problems. Indeed, in some neighborhoods , it is not uncommon to spot bikes left unlocked or see notes pinned to lampposts optimistically inquiring about the whereabouts of missing phones or precious jewelry.

Having said that, Munich is still a big city, and you should watch your bag and pockets in busy areas and transport hubs. Take care at night and avoid poorly lit spaces or parks if you are alone.

Lost something?  

If you leave something on public transport, you have a couple of ways to try and locate your belongings. In the west of Munich, you can swing by the Munich Transport Company (MVG) Lost and Found Center ( Fundbüro ), where many lost items end up. Alternatively, you can try locating your items before you come via their online search function .

If things go really wrong…

If you get into serious trouble in Munich, dial 110 for the police or 112 for all emergency services. The police are generally friendly and helpful and often speak English.

This article was first published February 2022 and updated July 2023

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From Lush Gardens to Beer

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Munich is quintessential Germany . Where Berlin and Frankfurt may disappoint you with their modern style, Munich is the land of lederhosen , weighty pork dishes , traditional biergartens , and the biggest beer festival in the world . It doesn't hurt that this cosmopolitan city also has no shortage of architecture and culture—some museums are considered even better than those in Berlin! No trip to Munich is complete without visiting these 23 attractions and sights. Luckily, many of them are in the center of Munich's Old Town and you can easily walk from one landmark to the next.

Listen to the Clock in Marienplatz

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Munich's Marienplatz (Marien Square) is the central square in the heart of Munich.

It's home to the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) with its highly decorated façade and the traditional Ratskeller (Town Hall cellar) restaurant. The Tourist Information Center is also nearby and makes a great pit stop for advice and brochures.

For most visitors, the  Glockenspiel within the Rathaus tower captures most of the attention. From March through October, this famous clock chimes every day at 11 a.m., noon, and 5 p.m. When its 43 bells ring out, more than 30 figures make merry, fight, and dance! Finally, a golden bird chirps three times to end the show. If you miss these show times, you have one more chance at 9 p.m. to watch an angel and a night watchman appear.

If you're visiting the city at Christmas time, don't miss the largest Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market) in the entire city.

Drink a Beer at the Biggest Folk Festival in the World

For many people, Munich is synonymous with Oktoberfest. There is so much more to the city, but that doesn't mean you should skip the world's greatest beer fest .

A tradition since 1810, more than 6.3 million visitors pour into the city every fall. On opening day, the mayor of Munich taps the first keg in the Schottenhamel beer tent with the exclamation " O'zapft is! " (It is tapped!) . For the next two weeks, more than 7.5 million liters of beer will be consumed.

Practice Your "Prost!" Year-Round

TripSavvy / Chira Chirakijja 

No matter what time of year you visit , the best beer halls in Munich are still happily serving.

True Munich beer halls brew their own beer and present it in the atmosphere it was meant to be drunk, typically alongside platters of meat by tracht -clad (traditional clothing) servers with boisterous oompah music.

Even though it's touristy, don't miss the world-famous Hofbrauhaus . It's Bavarian hospitality at its best in a fabled environment.

Find the Devil's Footstep

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

Along with the Rathaus, the twin towers of the Frauenkirche define Munich's skyline. It is the city's largest church with room for 20,000 pious visitors and it dates back to the 15th century. 

When you enter the church, you'll immediately see the Teufelstritt, a mysterious footprint called the "Devil's Footstep." Legend says this black mark was where the devil stamped his foot. It also miraculously survived World War II, despite severe damage to the rest of the cathedral.

For a more heavenly perspective, climb the steps of the cathedral’s towers for an unparalleled view of Munich's cityscape and the Bavarian Alps.

Get Nude in the English Garden

Munich's English Garden ( Englischer Garten ) is the largest park in the city and the designated hang-out on any sunny day.

Attractions within the park are numerous. You can rent a paddle boat, stroll along the wooded paths, or visit one of its traditional beer gardens . But if you really want to relax, you can let it all hang out on its grassy lawn—and yes, we mean go nude.

Moments from the civility of Marienplatz , the meadow of Schönfeldwiese welcomes everyone to from retirees to college students. Feel free to join in, but refrain from taking pictures.

Try Surfing at the Eisbach Canal

Even though it's hundreds of miles from the ocean, Munich's visitors walking the perimeter of the Englischer Garten come across the Eisbach canal and are surprised to find surfers there.

Munich is the birthplace of the unusual sport of river surfing. Intrepid surfers suit up throughout the year to take on the fierce waves erupting from the bridge and see how long they can hold on. 

Drink Your Beer Outside

Munich's beer gardens are among the country's best. At most, long wooden picnic tables stretch out below century-old chestnut trees and waitresses loaded down with steins breeze between the tables.  Munich is home to almost 200 beer gardens including the largest in the world, Hirschgarten , which seats a whopping 8,000 people.

Live Like a King at the Residence Palace

TripSavvy / Chira Chirakijja

Once the home of royalty, the Residence Palace of Munich is open to the public. It is free to walk the grounds , but curious visitors should really step inside.

Construction began in 1385 on what was to become the largest city palace in Germany. Today, the place is home to one of the best European museums of interior decoration, 10 courtyards, and 130 rooms of regal antiques, artwork, porcelain, and tapestries. Don't miss the Antiquarium (Hall of Antiquities), which dates back to 1568. It is the largest Renaissance hall north of the Alps and features an incredible ceiling of alternating gold and paintings.

Shop the Farmers' Market

Viktualienmarkt is Munich's daily outdoor farmers' market. Its 140 booths offer the best in seasonal specialties from spargel   (that's asparagus, by the way)   to strawberries.

The Viktualienmarkt began in the early 19th century and attracts Müncheners , tourists, and even local chefs. There is a butchers' hall, bakery, fish market, and flower area. If you can't wait to eat, some of Germany's best sausages , and bretzeln (pretzels) are cooked up fresh.

Above the market is the maibaum (maypole), decorated with figures from their various trades.

Look at New, Old, and Modern Art

TripSavvy / Faye Strassle

Munich's three Pinakothek museums cover the range of great art throughout the ages.

The Alte Pinakothek (Old Picture Gallery) is one of the oldest art galleries in the world. It holds more than 700 European masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the end of the Rococo period. 

The Pinakothek der Moderne is the largest museum for modern art in Germany with photography and video from greats like Picasso and Warhol.

Reflect at Dachau Concentration Camp

TripSavvy / Maria Ligaya

The concentration camp of Dachau was one of the first concentration camps in Nazi Germany, where it served as a model for all the camps to follow. 

Visitors follow the "path of the prisoner," walking the same way prisoners were forced to travel after their arrival in the camp. The original prisoner baths, barracks, courtyards, and the crematorium are all available to visit in horrifying detail.

Feel the Olympic Spirit

The Olympic Stadium in Munich was built for the 1972 Olympic Games and is still a wonder of technology.

The design of the acrylic glass roof is modeled on the Alps, and on a clear day you can actually see the mountains. Access is only available during the summer and through a guided tour . Panels describe the momentous moments of the Games, as well as life of the stadium afterwards.

Discover the World's Largest Museum of Technology

The Deutsches Museum (German Museum) is one of the oldest and largest science and technology museums in the world. There are 17,000 artifacts taking visitors from early developments like the first automobile to the laboratory bench where the atom was first split.

Interactive exhibits entertain the children and enough trains, planes, and automobiles to keep everyone's imagination moving. Some exhibits are closed for renovations until 2020.

Jump in a Lake

Just a short ride on public transport from the city, Starnberger See drops you back into nature. There are views of the Alps—including the Zugspitze —as well as six castles, but most people can't stop looking at the stunning azure hue of the lake. If you're ready to get wet, Starnberger See is the ideal location for swimming, boating, or sunbathing.

Be One with the Animals at the World's First Geo-Zoo

Tierpark Hellabrunn is more of a nature preserve than a zoo, with almost 20,000 animals spread out over 89 acres. Since its inception in 1911 as the first geo-zoo, their focus has been providing a quality experience for the animals and visitors. 

Tierpark Hellabrunn consistently ranks among the best zoos in Europe, thanks to thoughtful and beautiful exhibits like the historically listed Elephant House, crowd-pleasers like the petting zoo, picnic spots, and pony and camel rides for children during summer.

Summer Like Royalty at Nymphenburg

GettyImages / Franz Marc Frei  LOOK-foto

The summer residence of the Wittelsbach Electors, this large Baroque palace from the 17th century is known as Schloss Nymphenburg "Castle of the Nymphs" or simply Nymphenburg.

It has a massive span of 600 meters from wing to wing and is bordered on both sides by the Nymphenburg Canal. Water features abound, offering a cooling spray in summer and a natural ice-skating rink in winter. Multiple garden pavilions dot the grounds, with Amalienburg, the palace hunting lodge, famous for its Hall of Mirrors and European rococo design.

The Steinerner Saal (Stone Hall) in the Central Pavilion dates back to 1674. Styled like an Italian villa, its private chambers cover three floors of the central pavilion which are lavishly decorated. The Palace Chapel is elaborately illustrated with the life of Mary Magdalene. 

Take a Ride on the Real Falkor

 TripSavvy / Chira Chirakijja 

If you are traveling with little movie buffs , take them to the Bavaria Filmstadt (Bavaria Film Studios), Munich’s answer to Hollywood.

This is Europe’s largest film making center with a storied history of great films. Beloved props include Falkor, the dragon from " The Neverending Story " ( Die unendliche Geschichte in German ).  Drama-loving adults can step into Das Boot (The Boat).

For a bit of live action, there are regular stunt shows of fights, fires, and falls. Guided tours of the studio are available in English.

Sunbathe Along the Isar River

The Isar River's fast-running section known as the Eisbach shoots through the Englischer Garten and provides the rapid waters for surfing, but elsewhere it runs much more calmly.

The river has undergone a mass renovation in Munich and is now to go-to spot for lazy summer days. Rafting, swimming, fishing, picnicking, grilling, or simply sunbathing (with or without clothes) on its rocky shores are a mainstay of sunny days.

Study Immigration at Germany's Jewish Museum

Located next to Munich's largest synagogue, the Jewish Museum is an eye-catcher. All glass and stone and fronted by a menorah, the museum is unusual in that it studies the immigration. It also covers the history of Munich’s Jewish community, festivals and rites of passage.

The nearby community center offers a school, auditorium and a kosher restaurant.

Admire the Historic Odeonsplatz

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

This central square is easily identified as the entrance to the Residence Palace, Theatinerkirche , and the regal lions that guard the steps to the Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals’ Hall).

Ludwigstraße and Briennerstraße lead off from the square, and  Odeonsplatz has traditionally been an important site for parades and events. The annual parade to Oktoberfest follows this route. And under the Nazi regime, a statue honoring fallen soldiers was here and required a salute by all those that passed by. The monument was demolished, but there is still a plaque in the pavement and on the wall of the Residenz.

Worship at St. Peter's Church

Peterskirche or St. Peter's Church is Munich's oldest parish church. Rebuilt after a fire and dedicated in 1368, it was established by monks.

It stands apart from the city on a hill appropriately named Petersberg. Inside, red marble monuments by Erasmus Grasser and golden statues grace the sides while paintings adorn the cieling. Climb the 299-steps up the tower with its eight clock faces and eight bells.

Feel the Speed at BMW Welt

Stuttgart may be "car city," but Müncheners also love their cars. BMW's stunning headquarters and factories (BMW Welt) are located next to Olympic Park. A modern twisting design of glass, the museum showcases nearly every model the company has ever made. Sports cars, racing models, and motorcycles all look as if they could speed away at any minute. If you want a BMW to come home with you, there's even a distribution center!

Day Trip to the Most Famous Castle in Germany

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Few people staying in Munich for more than a few days can resist the allure of Germany's most famous castle, Neuschwanstein .

Just two hours from the city, this fairy-tale castle was the basis for the modern castles of Disney. Hidden away above Füssen and framed by the Alps, it receives more than six million visitors a year.

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City tours, guided tours, events

Tourist Information Munich: The most important info points and tips for tourists

The Munich tourist board and the tourist information office are your primary source of information. They will be pleased to make your stay in Munich as pleasant as possible. Staff are happy to help you find accomodation and to inform you about entertainment and cultural events in the city.

Münchner Stadtinformation im Rathaus

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Tourist Information in the City Hall at Marienplatz

  • Competent advice daily in several languages
  • Mediation of hotel rooms
  • Tips for an unforgettable stay in Munich
  • Service documents
  • Tickets for sightseeing tours and city walks
  • Tickets for excursions into the surrounding countryside and to Bavarian castles and lakes
  • Tickets for the tower ascent in the New City Hall
  • Sale of the official guest cards: Munich Card and City Pass  

Address Marienplatz 8 80331 München       

Tourist Information at the Central Station

  • Tickets for excursions to the surrounding countryside and Bavarian castles and lakes
  • Sale of the official guest cards: Munich Card and City Pass

Address Luisenstraße 1 80333 München

Infopoint - Museums & Castles in Bavaria

  • Up-to-date information on Bavaria's approximately 1,300 museums and palaces.
  • Advice and brochures on collections, exhibitions, events, how to get there, opening hours.

Alter Hof 1, 80331 Munich Phone: 089/ 210 140 50

Opening hours:

  • Monday - Saturday 10 am - 6 pm
  • Closed on sundays and holidays

Further information

Munich Tourist Board Herzog-Wilhelm-Str. 15, 80331 München Tel.: +49 (0)89 233 96 500 Fax: +49 (0)89 233 30 233 [email protected]

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2 Days in Munich: Perfect Itinerary & Best Things To Do

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tourism in munich germany

Thinking about visiting Munich on your Germany vacation? This guide will help you plan the perfect trip!

Munich skyline

Planning a visit to Munich, Germany for the first time can be a daunting but ultimately rewarding experience if you’ve never been there before. This guide is here to help!

From historic plazas to world-renowned beer halls, the Bavarian capital offers plenty of places to experience Munich’s rich culture and unique activities for every kind of traveler.

I’ve visited Munich many times and have never run out of things to do and places to explore. In fact, the more I visit, the more I find to do!

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If you’re planning a short visit and want to see as many sites as possible, this article will help you plan a Munich itinerary that will make the most out of your stay, whether you’re visiting for 2 days or even more!

Munich downtown

  • 1 When to Visit Munich
  • 2 Getting to Munich
  • 3 Where to Stay in Munich
  • 4 Best Way to Get Around Munich
  • 5 Best Guided Tours in Munich
  • 6 2 Days In Munich Itinerary Ideas
  • 7 What to Do & See in Munich in 2 Days
  • 8 Old Town (Altstadt)
  • 9 If You Have 3 Days in Munich
  • 10 Best Day Trips from Munich

When to Visit Munich

There’s really no “best time” to visit Munich because it’s a wonderful city to visit any time of year. I’ve spent time there in the summer, fall, and late winter/early spring and have never been disappointed!

That said, each season can bring something totally different to your experience depending on what you’re looking for.

During summer , you’ll enjoy sunny blue skies and outdoor festivals, beer gardens, or picnics in the parks. But prepare yourself for crowded streets and the heat since there’s not as much air-conditioning in Germany.

If it’s Oktoberfest you’re after, visiting during the fall is the best option. The event begins mid- or late-September and lasts until early October, so you can expect accommodation and airfare costs to be at their peak during this time period. For the weather, September is usually still warm but it gets a bit colder towards October. 

Munich beer hall

Visiting during winter can be a great way to make the most out of the off-season prices, especially if you’re comfortable with snow and cold temperatures. The air is filled with festivities brought by the Christmas markets and events around the city. You can also plan a day trip and venture outside the city for winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, or sledding.

If you come during spring , you’ll be welcomed with trees and flowers blooming as well as outdoor markets and activities kicking into gear. But the weather can be unpredictable – a couple of days can bring light breezes and warmth but other days can be gloomy, rainy or even snowy.

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View from train window

Getting to Munich

Munich is one of the biggest cities in Germany, so it’s very well connected and easy to get to.

You can fly in via Munich Airport, which welcomes flights daily from all over the world. Depending on where you’re flying from, you might be able to find a direct flight from abroad into Munich (I’ve flown directly into Munich from the US east coast).

To get into Munich’s city-center from the airport you can take the S-bahn (cheap and takes 45-60 minutes), a taxi or arrange an airport transfer ahead of time.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Germany, buying a train ticket to Munich’s central train station, (the main train station is called München Hauptbahnhof in German) is one of the easiest and best ways to get to the city.

Taking the bus is another option, and you’ll arrive at the bus station located right next to the train station.

If you’re traveling to Munich from another city in Germany or country in Europe, I recommend looking at both flights and train tickets. Flying within Europe and in Germany is easy but often it’s quicker, easier, and more relaxing to take the train.

Hotel Am Viktualenmarkt

Where to Stay in Munich

The first thing you should consider when planning your trip is where to stay. If you’re planning to be in Munich for 2 full days, plan to spend 3 nights in Munich. You can get away with 2 nights if you can arrive early in the morning and/or leave in the late afternoon or evening.

Luckily, Munich offers countless of options for accommodation. Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose between luxury hotel rooms, serviced apartments, or boutique B&Bs.

I’ve stayed in both apartments and hotels in Munich. I enjoyed my stay at Hotel Am Viktualenmarkt a few years ago. It’s close to the old town but on a quiet street. The staff were friendly, the beds were comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious!

For more information on how to decide where to stay in Munich, check out our guide of the best hotels in Munich .

Munich train station

Best Way to Get Around Munich

There are a variety of ways to explore Munich. If you’re looking to see as many of the city’s best sights, I recommend booking a Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour ticket here.

This is a great option that allows you to comfortably navigate each tourist attraction at your own pace or simply get a quick and easy tour of the city. You can choose from 3 routes, each taking an hour and covering 16 stops around the city, all for the price of one ticket!

We’ve started doing these tours because they’re a great way to quickly get an overview of a city before zeroing in on specific sights, and they enable you to see a lot in a short amount of time (if you ride the entire route without getting off), which is perfect when you’re only in a city for a couple days.

Besides taxis and rental cars, the city also has a robust and effective public transportation network. You can get everywhere you want to go on the U-bahn (underground train), the S-bahn (aboveground city railway), trams, and buses.

You can also get around the downtown area and city by foot, since it’s very walkable. When I stay in a downtown hotel I mostly walk around Munich. When I stay in an AirBnB away from downtown I buy day passes and use public transit.

full glasses of beer

Best Guided Tours in Munich

Guided tours are an excellent resource that travelers often overlook!

I sure did, and for many years I was determined to do everything on my own.

Then I started adding in guided tours and guided day trips and have enjoyed and appreciated what they’ve added to my vacation – time to actually be in the moment and enjoy my travels!

There are so many reasons and benefits for taking a guided tour.

First of all, tours take out the stress of planning the perfect itinerary, finding the best prices for tickets, and arranging transportation. These are all taken care of, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy!

Second, if you’re not staying in place for a long time, a local tour guide covers all the city highlights in the most time effective way – and you can ask questions and get to know a place in more depth.

It can be difficult to meet locals on a vacation, and taking a guided tour is one way to easily connect with interesting, knowledge, and fun locals.

Lastly, a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference if you don’t speak the country’s language. They can also give you insights into the local culture and show you hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise find by yourself.

If you’re only in the city for a day or two and are looking for an exciting twist to the typical walking tour, then book this Segway tour to zoom through the streets of Munich from a unique perspective. I’ve listed a few more guided tours below, so keep reading!

2 Days In Munich Itinerary Ideas

What you see while in Munich depends on several factors – your interests, whether you like sight-seeing at a fast or relaxed pace, whether you prefer to eat every meal in a sit-down restaurant or on the go, where your lodging is located, etc.

That said, here are a few ideas for how you could plan your 2-day Munich itinerary:

Itinerary #1: Self-Guided Munich Day 1: Visit the Old Town sites, Viktuellenmarkt (great for lunch), Munich Residenz or an art museum, and then spend the evening taking a stroll through the English Garden and having a beer at the Chinese Tower Beer Garden.

Day 2: Visit Nymphenburg Palace in the morning, hit up 1 or 2 museums in the afternoon, and then take a Bavarian beer and food tour in the evening.

Itinerary #2: Pack in As Much As Possible Day 1: Ride the Hop On Hop Off bus in the morning to get an overview of the city, enjoy a quick lunch at the Viktuellenmarkt then take a 3-hour segway tou r. After dinner enjoy a walk through the English Garden.

Day 2: Spend half of the day visiting Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial and the rest of the day visiting either the BMW museum or taking a Munich food tour or a 3rd Reich tour . Spend the evening enjoying dinner and a stroll through the Old Town.

Itinerary #3: Guided Tours & A Day Trip

Day 1: Spend the morning seeing the Old Town and taking a gourmet food tour of Viktuellenmarkt . In the afternoon, go on a guided bike tour of the city. Enjoy dinner and beer in the evening.

Day 2: Take a day trip to from Munich to Neuschwanstein , Linderhof and Neuschwanstein , the Romantic Road or Salzburg, Austria .

What to Do & See in Munich in 2 Days

Below are the top sights in Munich. You likely won’t be able to fit all of them in a 2-day visit but this guide gives you an idea of the best things to add to your itinerary. I’ve also listed a few of the best options for day trips.

Old Town (Altstadt)

Munich’s Old Town (Altstadt) is characterized by its historic buildings and streets lined with cathedrals, boutiques, and food stalls. There are many must-sees throughout Old Town such as the city center plaza called Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche cathedral and Staatliches Hofbräuhaus (Royal Brewery). Don’t miss out any of these famous landmarks and take this guided walking tour to learn about the city’s history.

New town hall

New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus )

Located in the heart of the city in Marienplatz, Neues Rathaus is an iconic feature of Munich’s skyline. Though it mainly operates as a city hall for government employees, the building also attracts tourists because of its panoramic views and famous balcony where football team FC Bayern celebrates wins.

You also can’t miss out on the Glockenspiel’s daily chime at noon and dancing figures!

Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus )

Another one of Munich’s famous town halls is Altes Rathaus. Located in the eastern end of Marienplatz, this town hall’s history dates back to 1310. It has undergone many renovations and served the state in different capacities but is now used for celebrations, memorials or award ceremonies. It is also home to the Toy Museum (Munich Spielzeugmuseum).

Fountain in center of town

Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum)

This quirky, fun museum is a popular destination for families and kids. But if you’re feeling nostalgic you can also visit to admire the old-fashioned interiors or see how toys have developed over the years, from wooden toys to tin toys, to Barbies and steam engine trains.

St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)

Another historic symbol of Munich is the St. Peter’s Church, the city’s oldest remaining Catholic church located right by Marienplatz and Viktuellenmarkt . Dating all the way back to the 12 th century, the church is known for its Gothic architecture and ceiling frescos. Climbing the church tower’s 306 steps is worth it to get a stunning view of Old Town Munich.

Victulas Market

Victulas Market (Viktuellenmarkt)

Just walking distance from Marienplatz, you’ll find Viktuellenmarkt, a food market with over 140 stalls selling fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, sausages, and so much more. Aside from these food staples, you can also try out exotic fruit or buy artisanal goods to gift as souvenirs. If you’re looking to learn about the market’s history and get a taste of Bavarian cuisine, book the ultimate food lover’s gourmet tour here .

Munich Residenz ( Residenz München)

At the center of Munich, you’ll find Munich Residenz, the biggest city palace in Germany. This magnificent palace complex is made up of lush gardens, lavish rooms, and courtyards that are open to the public through museum visits.

Some highlights here are the Cuvilliés Theatre, the Hercules Hall, and the Treasury. Because of the palace’s sheer size and its rich history, this would be the perfect place to book a guided tour to make the most out of your visit.

Cuvilles Theater (Old Residence Theater)

The Cuvillies Theater is one of Munich’s most important cultural venues. Located inside the Munich Residenz, this rococo theater is made up of four floors with 14 boxes each, all decorated in red walls and gold ornaments. Here you can watch classical concerts featuring resident soloists, members of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra and the Symphony Orchestra of the Bavarian Radio. If you don’t have time for a show, you can simply visit through a guided tour.

Munich boats in English garden

English Garden (Englischer Garten )

Spanning over 21 acres, the English Garden (Englischer Garten) is one of the largest parks in the world, famously bigger than New York’s Central Park. The park is filled with cultural landmarks like the Chinese Tower, a Japanese tea house, and Monopteros, a Greek temple offering a panoramic view of the city. This is also a great place to visit if you have free time to enjoy recreational activities like cycling, rowing and even surfing!

Chinese Tower Beer Garden ( Biergarten am Chinesischen Turm )

The Chinese Tower Beer Garden is an essential stop in the English Garden. As one of the biggest beer gardens in the city, it has almost 7,000 seats which brings both locals and tourists together. It’s directly connected to a restaurant where you can enjoy Bavarian cuisine. On certain days, you can also catch live music performances by a brass band.

Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is an impressive institution with exhibits featuring over 50 different fields of science and technology. If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of the best things you can do in the city. Each area is highly interactive, from the planetarium to a reproduction of a cave, and even an underground mining complex. You can easily spend a full day worth of fun here!

Alte Pinakothek

Munich is home to some of the best museums in the world, many of them located in the Kunstareal (Art District) area. Each museum features different time periods and art movements. Alte Pinakothek shows the development of art from the middle ages to the 18 th century. Among the 700+ artworks on display, you’ll see works from masters like Albrecht Dürer, Sandro Botticelli, and Leonardo Da Vinci.

Pinakothek der Moderne

Another great museum in the art district is the Pinakothek der Moderne, which is comprised of 4 major museums. Each is dedicated to a different specialization: modern and contemporary art, design, architecture, and works on paper (graphic art). This comprehensive museum covers all the bases of modern art. A must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.

Neue Pinakothek

Neue Pinakothek is one of the most renowned museums of European art, featuring 18 th to 19 th century art from different movements such as Art Nouveau and Impressionism. In here you can admire works from the great pioneers of modern art like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Paul Cézanne.

Unfortunately, it has been closed down since December 2018 for renovations. You can get to all other museums easily by taking the tram line 27 and stopping at the Pinakothekstation.

Museum Brandhorst

The Museum Brandhorst is a museum for contemporary art located in the art district area. The vibrant and colorful exterior gives you an idea of the kind of art exhibited inside which features Pop Art, expressive painting and Cubism. The museum attracts visitors from all over the world as it is houses the Andy Warhol largest collection in Europe. Other famous works you can find here are by artists Cy Twombly and Pablo Picasso.

Hofbräuhaus

Beer Halls & Beer Gardens

You can’t leave the city without immersing yourself in Munich’s beer and food culture. One of the best ways to experience this is a night at a beer hall, tasting different beer and trying traditional Bavarian food.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options in the city but if you’re looking for the complete package, then book this tour for a one of a kind evening at a traditional beer-hall . It includes personalized recommendations by a local, an exclusive tour of the Oktoberfest Museum, and of course, a beer sampling session and a platter of Bavarian delicacies.

Christmas market

Munich Christmas Markets (Münchener Weihnachtsmarkt / Christkindlmarkt)

Like many German cities, Munich is no stranger to Christmas markets. The oldest and most authentic one is Munich Christmas Market, located in Marienplatz besides Neues Rathaus. Festive stalls line up the plaza selling handicrafts, hot chestnuts and almonds, and mulled wine. Traditional Bavarian music is performed throughout advent on the town hall balcony, complete with choirs and live musicians.

Since there are many markets scattered throughout the city, there is a Christmas market for every kind of traveler. For fun activities with kids like a treasure hunt and horse carriage rides, then Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower is the one for you. Another one worth visiting is the Christmas Village at the Munich Residenz. This market is modeled after an Alpine village and showcases more artisanal creations and gourmet food.

Olympic Park (Olympiapark)

Built for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games, the Olympic Park is still a popular destination that attracts both locals and tourists. More than a park, it is also where sporting, social and cultural events are held. If you’re a sports fan, you can visit the state-of-the art fitness facilities, swimming pools, and skating rink.

Other relaxing alternatives include dining at the park’s revolving restaurant, checking out an outdoor performance, or simply strolling along the Olympic lake. Though it’s located in the North of Munich, it is a quick 10-minute walk away from the Olympiazentrum U-bahn station.

BMW Welt

BMW World (BMW Welt)

BMW Welt is Bavaria’s most visited tourist attraction maybe because there is nothing else like it elsewhere in the world. Located next to the Olympic Park, BMW Welt is the home for all brands under the BMW Group which actually includes BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce.

This futuristic building contains an exhibition center, an event venue, a museum, and delivery center. You can learn about the brand’s history through the BMW Museum’s guided tours, admire the latest models in the showroom, or even watch exciting stunts by professional motorcyclists!

Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

Nymphenburg Palace and the beautiful gardens it occupies is one of the city’s most vibrant spots. Inside, you can get a glimpse into the palace’s history through its ornate furnishings and ballrooms. There are also several museums inside specializing in areas like natural history, porcelain, and royal carriages.

The sprawling gardens are also filled with pavilions and smaller palaces. Some worth mentioning are Amalienburg with its mirrored halls and Badenburg, a sauna and bathing hall. The palace is easily reached by bus or tram at the station called “Schloss Nymphenburg.”

Dachau Concentration Camp (KZ Gedenkstätte Dachau)

If you’re looking for an important educational tour, check out this half-day trip to the Dachau Memorial Site . Led by professionally trained guides, this tour is sensitive to the historical context of the former concentration camp. The tour covers the entire area including the museum exhibition, the original remaining structures, and the cinema that screens informative documentaries in English.

church interior

If You Have 3 Days in Munich

If you are staying in Munich for 3 days or even more, then you’ll certainly have a better chance of hitting as many of the spots listed above. Since a couple of the sites are close to each other, you’ll be able to see several attractions in one go.

You also have the opportunity to dive even deeper into the city’s history. If you are interested in learning about one of the darkest moments in both Munich and the world, then book this 2-hour walking tour that traces the rise of the Third Reich under Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.

Sports is also a big part of Munich’s history. If you are a big football fan, book this Bayern-München Football Stadium Tour to visit the team’s official museum and training grounds, and explore the grand Allianz Arena.

Allianz Arena

B est Day Trips from Munich

If you have more time and are looking to explore new sights beyond the city, you can take a day trip to any of Munich’s surrounding areas.

One of your travel options is to book full-day tours, which removes the stress of planning since transportation is usually taken care of. But you can also visit any of these cities and sites by renting a car or via public transportation, like trains or buses.

Neuschwanstein castle

Linderhof & Neuschwanstein Castles

Bavaria is home to some of the most beautiful castles in Central Europe. One of them is Linderhof, located 1.5 hour away from Munich. Though it’s the smallest of King Ludwig II’s castles, it’s the only completed one and still just as stunning.

After Linderhof you can make your way to Neuschwanstein, Germany’s top tourist destination. This iconic castle is straight out of a fairytale and is known worldwide as the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s castle. For more information on how to get from Munich to Linderhof and then Neuschwanstein, check out this full-day tour complete with transportation here .  

Rothenburg downtown

Romantic Road

If you’re interested in experiencing medieval Germany, then go on this tour that takes you down the Romantic Road . The journey starts with Harburg Castle, one of the oldest castles in Southern Germany and takes you all the way to Rothenburg, a charming restored medieval town.

Salzburg

Salzburg, Austria

You can also make the most out of your stay in Munich and venture out to a whole other country by booking a day trip to Salzburg here .

From Munich you can cross the Austrian border into Salzburg via a 2-hour train ride. Salzburg, celebrated by many as Mozart’s hometown and the setting of “The Sound of Music”, is visited by millions of tourists per year.

This place is perfect for a day trip – it’s a well-preserved charming town unlike any in Europe and it’s small enough where you can visit most if not all of the most famous landmarks in a day.

2 Days in Munich flyer

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

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Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

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TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

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20 Top Tourist Attractions in Munich

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Munich is a glorious city that shrugs off the coldness and sternness of buildings that are so prevalent elsewhere in Germany. Sure, it has a few of these buildings, but in the old city visitors will find attractive historic buildings and monuments. Munich has a good public transportation system (bus and subway) that makes it convenient to move around the city.

Munich makes a good base for day trips to outlying areas, such as the Nazi concentration camp at Dachau or scenic Salzburg , but there is plenty to keep visitors in the city too. Here’s a look at the top tourist attractions in Munich :

Map of Munich

Munich Map

20. Hofgarten

Hofgarten

Located between the famed Residenz and the Englischer Garten is the Hofgarten, a beautiful garden built at the beginning of the 17th century in the style of an Italian Renaissance garden. The Hofgarten is open to the public from dawn to dusk, and it is the perfect spot for a stroll.

Check out the gazebo in the center of the garden, or just admire the beautifully manicured gardens. Many visitors grab some food and enjoy a picnic in the Hofgarten, and there are plenty of benches throughout the area where you can sit, rest and enjoy the view.

19. Pinakothek der Moderne

Pinakothek der Moderne

There are three major art museums in Munich that combine to create what is known as the Kunstareal in the area of Maxvorstadt. The newest is the Pinakothek der Moderne. This is where you’ll find the best contemporary art in the city, and arguably even in all of Europe.

The building that houses the collection is a strikingly modern structure built in the International Style. The Pinakothek der Moderne is divided into four sections, each of which is devoted to either art, architecture, design or works on paper.

Some of the most noteworthy artists whose works are on display include Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso.

18. Olympiapark

Olympiapark

The 1972 Olympic Games were held in Munich, and many of the venues created for the event are located in what is now known as the Olympiapark. Munich is recognized globally for its success in turning the Olympic venues into spaces that continue to be used and generate income for the city.

If you’re visiting Munich, you might watch a concert or attend a festival in the Olympic Stadium. At the Olympic Lake, you can rent a boat and paddle around. If you want to soak in the views of the Olympiapark, grab a meal at the revolving restaurant at the top of the Olympic Tower.

17. St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter's Church

Peterskirche, or St. Peter’s Church, is a Catholic church located in Munich’s city center, or Altstadt. St. Peter’s Church was started in the 12th century and is the city’s oldest church, although fires and lighting strikes have damaged part of the structure over the centuries.

The Romanesque-style church hosts services several times each day, and it’s well worth attending one to admire the interior of the building. You can also climb Alte Peter, a tower accessible via more than 300 steps. The climb is worth the effort, however, because you’ll get a stunning view over Munich from the top.

16. Allianz Arena Stadium

Allianz Arena Stadium

Sports fans who’ve ever wondered if football (soccer) is popular in Munich need only visit Allianz Arena Stadium, which seats more than 75,000 spectators who want to see one of the city’s two teams take the field.

The stadium replaced the city’s Olympic stadium beginning with the 2005-2006 season. The stadium, which hosted the World Cup finals in 2006, is known for its panels that change colors, depending on which team is playing and the type of match, i.e., local or national, being played.

15. New Pinakothek

New Pinakothek

The second art museum in the Kunstareal is the New Pinakothek. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of impressionist and expressionist art dating from the 19th and 20th centuries. The collection is housed in a relatively new postmodern building that was constructed in 1981.

The New Pinakothek is the place to go if you’re drawn to works by painters such as Francisco de Goya, John Constable, Eugène Delacroix or Claude Monet. There are also several interesting sculptures on display like the Crouching Woman by Auguste Rodin.

14. Eisbach Wave

Eisbach Wave

The Eisbach Wave is one of the more unexpected attractions located in the heart of Munich. It’s part of the Eisbach River, a man-made body of water that is just over a mile long. The Eisbach River flows through the Englischer Garten.

At one point in the river, there is a standing wave that is just three feet high. It is here that city dwellers have the chance to go surfing or even kayaking right in the heart of Munich.

It is common to see visitors standing next to the Eisbach Wave and watching surfers try to maintain their balance on the wave for as long as possible.

13. Odeonsplatz

Odeonsplatz

If you’re planning to spend any time in the Altstadt, then you’ll want to visit the Odeonsplatz. This central plaza is a major landmark in the city, and it is packed with interesting and historically significant attractions.

Both Ludwigstraße and Briennerstraße, two major thoroughfares through Munich, begin at the Odeonsplatz. The plaza is also home to the Theatinerkirche, a beautiful Italian-Baroque church, and the Field Marshals’ Hall, also known as the Feldherrnhalle.

The highlight of the Odeonsplatz is the Residenz, a palace that is now open to the public and home to a collection of royal jewels, crowns and family portraits.

12. Asam Church

Asam Church

Asamkirche was built in the middle of the 18th century by brothers Egid Quirin Asam and Cosmas Damian Asam. Egid Quirin was the architect and sculptor, and Cosmas Damian painted the frescoes.

Built in the late Baroque style, this beautiful church was intended to be a private place of worship for the brothers. Due to public unrest, however, it was opened to the residents of the city.

The Asam Church can be toured, and make sure you look up to admire the stunning works of art on the ceiling. If you’re in Munich over the holiday season, the Christmas Eve service at Asam Church is a memorable experience, since the church looks especially beautiful in candlelight.

11. Neues Rathaus

Neues Rathaus

If you’re a fan of architecture, then don’t miss a chance to see the Neues Rathaus in Munich. The New City Hall was built in the neo-Gothic style, and it is a major attraction in the Marienplatz. The building is enormous and boasts six courtyards, a beautiful spiral staircase and plenty of stained glass windows.

Many people come to see the Neues Rathaus just for its clock, which has 43 bells and goes off three times each day. Carved figures emerge from the Glockenspiel and revolve around the clock in time with the bells, and it’s well worth seeing for yourself in person.

10. Viktualienmarkt

Viktualienmarkt

Next to the Marienplatz in the city center of Munich is the Viktualienmarkt, a large outdoor market with generations of history. Many of the vendors at the market have a family history at the Viktualienmarkt, making it a longstanding tradition to shop there.

Many locals head to the market on the way to or from work and pick up fresh produce. You can also find some homemade baked goods, premade soups, nuts and herbs for sale.

It’s a popular place for foodies, because many of the items for sale are upscale, gourmet or otherwise exotic ingredients. You’ll also find a few restaurants and a biergarten where you can stay for a drink or two.

9. Alte Pinakothek

Alte Pinakothek

The third of the Kunstareal art museums in Munich is the Alte Pinakothek. This is one of the oldest art galleries in the world, and it is a must-see destination for classical art fans.

When it was ordered built in 1826 by King Ludwig I, the Old Pinakothek was the largest museum in the world; its neo-renaissance exterior soon became the model for museums located throughout Europe. The works of art displayed in the Arte Pinakothek come from the 14th through the 18th centuries.

The most celebrated works come from the Old Masters, including artists like Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals and Leonardo da Vinci. There is a heavy emphasis on German painters, so look for works by Albrecht Dürer and Matthias Grünewald, among many others.

8. Deutsches Museum

Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is a world class science and technology museum that appeals to visitors of all ages, even those who profess not to be interested in such subject matter. Visitors can take free guided tours (conducted only in German though) through the museum’s 50 exhibit areas, view demonstrations on subjects ranging from electricity to musical instruments, and participate in a wide variety of hands-on activities.

The museum has a huge collection of more than 100,000 science- and technology-related objects from the Stone Age to today. The museum is family friendly, with 1,000 activities for kids 3-8 offered in Kids Kingdom.

7. Munich Residenz

Munich Residenz

The Munich Residenz was home to Bavarian rulers, the Wittelsbachs, for centuries before it was opened to the public in 1920. Its art collections and various architectural styles became symbols of the royal family’s power. The residence sustained heavy damage in World War II, but has since been restored as much as possible.

Today, it is considered one of the finest palace museums in Europe. The Wittelsbachs collected fine art and objects for centuries, so visitors will be able to see outstanding collections of porcelain, paintings, silver objects, rare furniture, chandeliers and sculptures.

6. BMW Welt & Museum

BMW Welt & Museum

BMW is known for its fast cars and motorcycles; what better place to learn more about them than BMW Welt and the BMW museum. BMW Welt is a place to see and gain knowledge of the company’s latest product offerings.

BMW Welt also sells auxiliary accessories and parts for their vehicles, and hosts exhibitions of their latest models. It’s located near Olympic Park; park ticket holders can get a discount on BMW Welt admission.

The nearby BMW Museum has exhibits tracing the history of these famous two- and four-wheeled vehicles. Many old cars and motorcycles are on display along a spiral ramp that curls along the inside of the bowl-shaped building.

5. Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace

The Nymphenburg Palace celebrates the birth of an heir to the Bavarian throne, ordered built by the parents of Maximillian II Emanuel in 1664. The palace served as the summer residence of Bavarian rulers.

When he inherited the throne, Max Emanuel significantly enlarged the palace. Today this baroque palace is one of Munich’s more popular tourist attractions, even though sections are closed to the public since it also serves as the home for the current Duke of Bavaria.

Original baroque ceilings, some with frescoes, survive to this day, as do King Ludwig I’s Galleries of Beauties that portray 36 beautiful Munich women.

4. Munich Frauenkirche

Munich Frauenkirche

The Munich Frauenkirche is another famous Munich landmark that towers over the rest of the city. It dates back to the 15th century when it was built in an astounding 20 years’ time, though completion of some features was postponed due to lack of money.

The Munich Frauenkirche serves as the cathedral for the Archdiocese of Munich and is home to the archbishop. The Gothic cathedral is capable of holding 20,000 worshipers. The cathedral was damaged during World War II, but has been restored It is famous for its bells and as the final resting place for the Dukes of Bavaria.

3. Hofbrauhaus

Hofbrauhaus

Munich residents do love their beer, celebrating it annually at Oktoberfest. Travelers who won’t be here then can still sip the suds at the Hofbrauhaus, one of the oldest breweries in town.

The Hofbrauhaus dates back to 1589 when it was founded by Wilhelm V, Duke of Bavaria, when it served as the official brewery for Munich’s royalty. Even back then, the beer had an international reputation, with Swedish invaders agreeing not to sack Munich in exchange for 600,000 barrels of beer.

The brewery and the beer hall are among the most popular tourist attraction in Munich today.

2. Englischer Garten

Englischer Garten

The size of New York City’s Central Park pales in comparison to Munich’s Englischer Garten, one of the world’s largest urban parks. The park, which stretches from the city center to northeast Munich, was established in 1789, but has been enlarged over the centuries.

It takes its name from the traditional English gardens that were popular in the 18th and early 19th centuries. It was built by soldiers during times of peace to teach them agricultural skills. The garden contains a Japanese teahouse, a meadow where nude sunbathing is permitted and an artificial wave used by surfboarders.

1. Marienplatz

Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the most famous square in Munich, drawing thousands of tourists every day who come to see the New Town Hall that dates back to 1874. The city hall was built in the Gothic Revival style, and features most of the Wittelsbach rulers on the main façade while statues of four Bavarian kings are on a lower level.

This highly ornate building is a tourist magnet in itself, but what really draws the tourists to Marienplatz is the thrice-daily performance of the Glockenspiel. The famous Ratskeller restaurant is in the basement.

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Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

Traveling to Munich Germany? Here are 25 best things to do in Munich that are totally unmissable. Be it stepping into a medieval church, enjoying a mug of beer, or touching a sea anemone, this amazing Munich bucket list has something for everyone. Be sure to add these amazing Munich things to do to your Munich itinerary and enjoy your trip to Munich. #Munich #Germany

25 Best Places To Visit In Munich Germany + Interactive Map

Last Updated on February 15, 2023 by Soumya

Traveling to Munich and not sure what to do? Looking for a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Munich Germany? Keen to find out what are the best Munich attractions that you should not miss? You are in luck because we have the just the perfect guide for you!

Munich is an amazing city filled with food, art, culture, nature, and of course a ton of history. There are so many wonderful places to visit in Munich that you will find yourself running short of time.

Munich was the first stop on my 10-day Germany itinerary . Even though I was full of enthusiasm and stuffed multiple tourist places into my 2-day Munich itinerary , I barely scratched the surface.

The city’s beautiful architecture, resplendent palaces, magnificent churches , and an interesting history (that is outright bone-chilling at times) keep calling me back. Honestly, I can go back and spend a couple of weeks in the city and not be done with all of Munich’s beautiful places.

To make it a little less overwhelming for you, I have created this ultimate Munich travel guide. In this post, you will find everything you need to plan your trip to this historic city including a list of the best places to visit in Munich, best places to stay, amazing tours, and easy travel options.

If you would like to read more about Munich, here are some related posts.

  • Easy-to-plan 2-day itinerary for Munich Germany
  • 11 Magnificent churches of Munich that you need to see
  • The ultimate guide to Marienplatz: Munich’s historic center

Table of Contents

25 Amazing places to visit in Munich

Traveling to Munich Germany? Here are 25 best things to do in Munich that are totally unmissable. Be it stepping into a medieval church, enjoying a mug of beer, or touching a sea anemone, this amazing Munich bucket list has something for everyone. Be sure to add these amazing Munich things to do to your Munich itinerary and enjoy your trip to Munich. #Munich #Germany

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Marienplatz

Whether you are in Munich for one day or many, Marienplatz is the first place you should be stopping at. The historic center of Munich since 12th century, Marienplatz has been the venue of festivities, markets, and tournaments for nearly 1000 years now. Today, it is one the best sights to see in Munich.

Here you will find several important monuments such as the old and new town halls, a historic fish fountain, the Marian column which holds great religious importance, and the Glockenspiel – a mechanical clock that presents a free dance and joust show everyday.

There are several lovely restaurants and cafes in and around Marienplatz. It is the perfect place to start your day with pretzel, coffee, and a dip into German history.

I loved Marienplatz so much, I went ahead and wrote a dedicated guide for Marienplatz which I am sure you will love.

Neues Rathaus – New Town Hall

Location: Marienplatz

Facade of the New Town Hall in Munich

One of the most impressive places to visit in Munich is the New Town Hall or Neues Rathaus.

A very tall and long Gothic building, the New Town Hall was built between 1867 – 1909 when its old counterpart ran out of space. It is located right there on Marienplatz and is the most visible structure in the area. On its front wall, you will find the Glockenspiel.

The best part about Neues Rathaus is the observation deck at the top of the tower which provides some of the most beautiful views of central Munich . You will also be able to see the domes and steeples of iconic Munich churches – Peterskirche, Frauenkirche, and Theatinekirche.

What’s better is you don’t even need to climb steps to get there. Simply get on an elevator and you will be there in a jiffy! Check here for opening hours and admission .

Altes Rathaus – Old Town Hall

The old town hall (built in the 14th century) is just a minute away from the new one. After having undergone several changes in the 600 years of its existence, the Old Town Hall features designs from all kinds of architectural styles such as Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic.

You will find some interesting statues on the façade – of Ludwig of Bavaria and Henry, the Lion. Enter if you wish to check out a historic toy museum filled with models of trains and doll houses. Kids will love this place.

It is always fun to discover Munich’s historic sights like the Altes Rathaus on a guided tour. Here are some of my favorite ones.

  • This 3-hour segway tour takes you to all popular Munich places and tourist attractions.
  • Explore iconic and most beautiful Munich places of interest on this highlights of the old town tour .

St. Peter’s Church – Peterskirche

Location: Rindermarkt 1

Alter Peter Tower in Munich

Munich has some of the most beautiful churches in Europe. And one of my favorites is St. Peter’s Church right by the side of Marienplatz.

A 12th-century Roman Catholic church, Peterskirche is the oldest in Munich. It was rebuilt and renovated several times following the fire of 1368 and the Second World War which is why you will now see a Gothic structure complete with a Baroque high altar and some beautiful ceiling frescoes in the Rococo style.

St. Peter’s has a tall tower that you can climb up to get some stunning views of the city. Locals fondly refer to this 300ft tower as Alter Peter or Old Pete and it is one of Munich’s most remarkable landmarks.

Munich Cathedral – Frauenkirche

Location: Frauenplatz 12

Munich Cathedral - Largest in the city

Next up on our Munich bucket list of beautiful sights is another one of Munich’s beautiful churches known as Frauenkirche. This is the largest church in the city and also the Munich Cathedral.

If you have ever seen a picture of Munich with an orange-roofed Gothic church serenaded by two tall towers with green onion domes, then you must know I am talking of Frauenkirche.

Located only a stone’s throw away from Marienplatz, Frauenkirche is one of the most popular places to visit in Munich. And that is because it is home to the famous and intriguing Devil’s Footprint that you will find here. Other unmissable highlights include the Wittelsbach Monument and 20 chapels dedicated to various saints, apostles, and even merchant guilds.

Also read: 11 Beautiful churches of Munich that you need to visit

Medieval Town Gates

Did you know there were medieval gates in Munich? I had no idea when I first visited.

Apparently, Munich had 7 town gates in the medieval times, 3 of which still survive. They are called Karlstor, Isartor, and Sendlingertor. You can reach all of them within minutes of walking from Marienplatz. (Find directions in the interactive map below )

Viktualienmarkt

Location: Viktualienmarkt 3, 2-min walk from St. Peter’s Church

Garden dolls at Viktualienmarkt in Munich

Fan of fresh, local produce or looking to pick some souvenirs? Stop by the Victuals Market (Viktualienmarkt) in Munich.

One of the best places to visit in Munich, the Viktualienmarkt is a treasure trove of everything German. Fruits, flowers, herbs, wine, sausages, and even garden dolls – you will find literally everything you want at the Victuals Market.

There are many good restaurants around if you are looking for a quick bite or an elaborate lunch. Two of my favorite places are Sababa and The Munich Soup Kitchen .

If you would like to explore the culinary delights of Viktualienmarkt on a guided tour, here are a couple of highly recommended ones.

  • Immerse yourself in Bavarian delicacies and Victuals Market life on this 2-hour gourmet food tour .
  • Sample the best Bavarian food and beer on this 3-hour evening tour .

Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall

Location: Platzl 9, 5-min walk from Marienplatz

Munich largest and most famous beer hall – Hofbrauhaus – is only a 5-min walk from Marienplatz. It was built in the late 16th century by a Bavarian Duke and hence, is more than 400 years old.

They serve different types of Hofbrau beers – Original, Dunkel, and Oktoberfestibier – and the Munchner Weisse. Plus, they have a full food authentic Bavarian menu if you are hungry. With an oompah band playing in the background and lederhosen-clad waiters milling around, the experience at Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall is as German as it gets.

That said, this place can get a little touristy and crowded during the day. But you know what they are open throughout the year – 9am – midnight!

Apart from being a quintessential beer hall, Hofbrauhaus also has a dark history that not many people will tell you about. In February 1920, Hitler presented the 25-point program in the Hofbrauhaus Festival Hall which eventually gave birth to the Nazi party. It was also here that Hitler first condemned the Jews and threatened to strip them of their rights.

Munich Residenz

Location: Residenstrasse 1, 2-mins from Odeonplatz

Munich Residenz Antiquarium

Visiting Munich Residenz was the highlight of my 2-day Munich itinerary . I had been so looking forward to check out this beautiful German palace and honestly, it went beyond all my expectations.

Munich Residenz was the official home of the Royal Wittelsbach family for 400 long years. It consists of 130 rooms, 10 courtyards, a church, and a theater. In short, the palace is huge and can take you an entire day to explore it all.

But if you are on a short trip like us, I suggest you check out The Hall of Antiquities (pictured here – it is even better than it seems in my photograph), The Treasury (for a glittery display of royal jewelry), and the Cuvilles Theater (where Mozart performed Idomeneo for the first time). You can even attend a gala concert at Cuvilles .

It is hard to believe that such a colossal palace complex exists in the center of a bustling city like Munich. But it is right there – only a 5-minute walk from Marienplatz.

Field Marshall’s Hall – Feldherrnhalle

Location: Odeonplatz

Munich Feldherrnhalle or Field Marshalls Hall

Feldherrnhalle or the Field Marshall’s Hall is a big hall on Odeonplatz with three prominent arches.

Doesn’t it remind you of the famous Loggia dei Lanzi beside Uffizi Gallery in Florence ? That is because Feldherrnhalle was inspired (and was in fact a copy of) by Loggia dei Lanzi. Built between 1841 – 1844 on the orders of King Ludwig I who was an avid admirer of Italian art and architecture, it is not difficult to guess why!

Feldherrnhalle is a unique Munich landmark that features sculptures of brave Bavarian commanders and two bronze lions. However, what makes it different is its connection with Germany’s Nazi past.

It was here in Feldherrnhalle that Hitler’s coup attempt in November 1923 was foiled. When Hitler eventually came to power, the Field Marshall’s Hall became a Nazi party icon. People who wanted to pass in front of it had to perform the Nazi salute.

Today, the hall is a great place to relax and people-watch after a long day of sightseeing Munich’s best places. Yet, it hides some of the worst nightmares of European history!

Are you a WW2 history buff? You are going to love these Third Reich guided tours in Munich.

Theatine Church – Theatinekirche

Theatine Church - one of the best places to visit in Munich

Right next to Feldherrnhalle is an impressive, yellow-colored Catholic church called the Theatinekirche.

Built in the High Baroque style and inspired by a minor basilica in Rome, Theatine Church is a head-turner and almost tops my list of the best places to visit in Munich. Its Rococo façade and two tall towers bordering it are the most remarkable. The bright yellow color adds an extra Mediterranean flair to the monument.

If you ever feel depressed by the dull brown color and WW II stories of Feldherrnhalle, just hop into Theatinekirche on your right. It will definitely bring a smile to your lips.

Alte Pinakothek Museum

Location: Barer Strasse 27

One of the largest art galleries in the world, Alte Pinakothek or Old Pinakothek boasts of a fine collection of paintings by European masters, all dated between 14th – 18th century.

The museum was founded by Ludwig I of Bavaria in 1836 and the private collection of the Wittelsbach monarchs formed the core of Alte Pinakothek. Some of the most unmissable paintings at the museum include self portraits by Rembrandt and Albrecht Durer, & Virgin and Child by Leonardo da Vinci.

Alte Pinakothek suffered considerable damage during WW2 and wasn’t restored until 1957. Luckily, however, much of its collection had been removed and stacked away in safety as early as 1939. Thanks to this foresightedness of the museum authorities, we are still able to enjoy such amazing art from the medieval times.

Pinakothek der Modern

Location: Barer Strasse 40, 3-min away from Alte Pinakothek

Are you a fan of modern art? Then Munich has the perfect place for you to visit – its vast contemporary art museum – Pinakothek der Modern.

Opened to the public in 2002, the museum building itself is impressive with large windows and high rise columns. Each corner of the building houses a different collection – art, design, works on paper, and architecture.

Asam Church – Asamkirche

Location: Sendlinger St. 32

Asam Church in Munich Germany - one of the best places to visit in Munich

Asamkirche is, by far, the prettiest church I have seen in Munich. Even though the façade is nothing remarkable, the inside of the church is gorgeous. Do not miss the ceiling fresco that depicts the life of Saint John Nepomuk. It is an absolute masterpiece.

The Asam Church was built by Asam brothers in early 18th century. It was meant to be a private chapel for the brothers (a painter and a sculptor who painted several other churches in Munich ) but was later opened to the public.

Ruhmeshalle with Bavaria Statue

Location: Theresienhöhe 16

One of the most iconic attractions of Munich, but not a very popular one, is the ensemble of Bavaria and Ruhmeshalle located near Theresienwiese, the venue of the famous beer festival Oktoberfest.

The ensemble includes a colossal bronze statue of Bavaria, the patroness of Bavarian state, and a Hall of Fame (Ruhmeshalle) commissioned by King Ludwig I. Ruhmeshalle is dedicated to the great men of Bavaria and is filled with marble busts of famous Bavarians including the artist Albrecht Durer.

If you love visiting halls of fame, check out Walhalla near Regensburg Germany . That is another iconic one.

English Garden

English Garden - one of the best places to visit in Munich

Englischer Garten or English Garden is a huge public park located in northeast Munich. It rivals New York’s Central Park and London’s Hyde Park in size – in fact I have heard it is bigger than the two of them.

There’s lots of interesting things to do at Englischer Garten including biergarten hopping. There are 4 beer gardens inside the park and The Seehaus at Kleinhesseloher See is the most famous.

Apart from running, jumping, and picnicking in the open green spaces of English Garden, be sure to check out some interesting monuments such as the Japanese Tea House, a Chinese Tower, and the Monopteros, a round Greek temple.

Olympiapark or Olympic Park of Munich

Location: Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21

View of tent roof of Olympia Park in Munich

Munich’s Olympiapark was built to host the 1972 Olympic games. Now the huge recreational park serves as a destination for sports and cultural events.

Of special interest is the tent-like roof that is an architectural delight. Today, you can participate in a roof climb activity and combine that with abseiling or flying fox experiences. Find more exciting activities and guided tours at Olympiapark here .

Sea Life Munich

Location: Olympiapark

Discover life under water at Sea Life Munich, a large aquarium that is home to more than 4500 animals in 33 displays.

They have the largest variety of sharks in Germany and a brand new tropical island. Visitors love their fish feeding time and the touch pool where you can actually feel a sea anemone in your hands. If you are visiting Munich with kids, Sea Life is the perfect place to be.

Be sure to book your Sea Life skip-the-line day ticket online to avoid queues.

BMW Welt & Museum

Automobile fans will love checking out vehicle exhibitions at BMW Welt and Museum located right next to Munich’s Olympiapark. Even the building’s futuristic architecture is ever so appealing.

You can choose to visit the exhibitions in BMW Welt, take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the company, or experience behind the scenes at the BMW Plant. Click here to learn more about their guided tours.

Deutches Museum

Location: Museumsinsel 1

Deutsches Museum Munich - the best place for science and technology geeks

Munich is the city of museums and one of the most amazing ones is the Deutsches Museum located not very far away from the historic center of Marienplatz .

It is a huge science museum (one of the largest in the world) with 35 different sections focusing on everything that you can think of. There are sections on astronomy, ceramics, computers, glass-blowing, technical toys, and what not! There’s also a kid’s section as well as a planetarium for some fun family time in Munich.

If you are science and technology geek or have a family/group full of them, plan to spend at least half-a-day at the Deutsches Museum in Munich. We were there for a couple of hours and honestly, I don’t think we saw anything at all. There was just so much to explore.

Find more information on exhibits, hours, and admission visit the official website of Deutsches Museum here .

Bavarian National Museum

Location: Prinzregentenstraße 3

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Munich, Bavarian National Museum is home to a rich collection of European art spanning over 2000 years.

Paintings, sculptures, porcelain, furniture, carvings, and musical instruments – get read to get a comprehensive tour of European art and culture here. Check here for opening hours and tickets .

NS-Documentation Center in Munich

Location: Konigsplatz

Keen to learn more about the history of National Socialism, a force that changed the face of the world? Head to Munich Documentation Center on Konigsplatz.

Built on the site of the former headquarters of the Nazi Party, the Documentation Center gives you a deeper look into the history of NSDAP and the role of Munich as its birthplace.

The permanent exhibition “Munich and National Socialism”, aided by photographs, documents, and media, is insightful and thought-provoking. Various temporary exhibitions touching upon different aspects of the Nazi regime are held throughout the year. Refer to the Documentation Center website for exhibition details and hours.

If you are a history geek and planning to visit the most iconic WW2 sites in Germany, Munich Documentation Center is a good place to start.

Beer and Oktoberfest Museum

Location: Sternecker Strasse 2

Are you in Munich not just to drink all that beer but also to learn a little about the story of beer and trace its origins?

Beer and Oktoberfest Museum in Munich is the best place to go to. Located on Sternecker Strasse 2, it is just a 5 minutes walk from Marienplatz.

Nymphenburg Palace & Gardens

Location: Nymphenburg

Nymphenburg Palace and Gardens

Schloss Nymphenburg is one of the prettiest German palaces I have been to. Resplendent palace rooms, a carefully-manicured garden as huge as the one at Versailles, and several museums on site make Nymphenburg Palace one of the most attractive places to visit in Munich.

It is located in the western fringes of Munich city and makes for a great half-day trip from Munich. If you are short on time, be sure to check out the Stone Hall and the Beauty Gallery of King Ludwig I. Do not miss walking through the gardens and checking out those pretty tea houses, bathing places (Badenburg is so cute), and hunting lodges (check out the Rococo-styled Amalienburg).

Find opening hours and admission on the official website here .

Also read: 18 Stunning palaces and castles to visit in Germany

Schleissheim Palace Complex

Location: Oberschleissheim

Another great place to visit in Munich that I, unfortunately could not explore on my last Germany trip , is Schloss Schleissheim. Located in a suburb near Munich, this is another pretty Bavarian palace and a stunning example of Baroque architecture.

Take a tour of the new and old palaces and wander through the Court Garden for a true feeling of royalty. Here is an amazing virtual tour of the palace that is enough to feed your wanderlust and make you want to pack your bags right now.

Check here for opening hours, admission, and photography restrictions.

Interactive map of best places to visit in Munich

Interactive map for best places to visit in Munich

Practical information for visiting Munich

Best time to visit munich.

The best time to visit Munich is undoubtedly in spring and summer when the weather is pleasant. It is also the time Bavaria harvest its crop of white asparagus, also known as white gold. So, be ready to find it on menus everywhere and honestly, it is one of my favorite things to eat in Bavaria.

We visited in May and it was fun walking around during the day. At night, it often got a little chilly. So, I would advise carrying a jacket.

September – October is a great time if you are planning to attend Munich uber-famous Oktoberfest. And December is good (but cold) if you are a fan of German Christmas markets.

Remember that Munich gets super crowded during Oktoberfest as well as in summers. So, be sure to make your hotel reservations well in advance.

Best places to stay in Munich

The best place to stay in Munich Old Town because that will ensure you are close to most Munich attractions. Plus, you won’t be spending a lot of time traveling between places.

Here are some great places to stay in Munich Old Town or close-by for all budgets.

  • Hotel Eder : A cute, little, family-run place, Hotel Eder boasts of clean rooms, helpful staff, and a traditional German breakfast. They tend to fill up fast. So make sure you reserve your stay super soon .
  • Hotel ADRIA München: This is a great 3-star option with tasteful décor is not very close to Marienplatz but walkable (15minutes). Its bright red façade makes it one of the prettiest buildings on the street. Spacious rooms and friendly staff make it one of the best places to stay in Munich. Book your stay at Hotel ADRIA München here.
  • Hotel Torbrau: A historic, 4-star hotel in Old Town Munich, Hotel Torbrau is a cozy and friendly place to stay. You need to walk only 5 minutes to get to Marienplatz. Get a room at Hotel Torbrau here.

However, please keep in mind that staying in the city center is definitely going to cost more than elsewhere. So, if time and commute isn’t a constraint, please feel free to find more hotels in Munich here.

Big pretzel structure at Marienplatz in Munich

Getting to Munich

Franz Josef Strauss International Airport/Munich Airport is the closest airport to Munich city.

From Munich Airport, it is easy to get to the city center by train, bus, or taxi. Hop into an S-Bahn (S1/S8) to get to your destination. Or board the Lufthansa Express bus that is equipped with Wifi and newspapers.

If you are looking for a private transfer to or from the airport, then this one has great reviews.

Getting around Munich

You will notice that there are lots of amazing places to visit in and around Marienplatz in Munich . The best part is that you can easily walk to each and everyone of them. Frankly, if I am there in Munich for just one day, I would spend the entire day exploring Marienplatz and nearby, entirely on foot!

Munich’s hop-on hop-off bus tour is also a popular way of seeing the best of the city without having to walk. It is available in 1-day and 2-day versions.

On other days, when you need to travel to other Munich attractions such as the palaces of Nymphenburg and Schleissheim, Olympiapark and Sea Life, or the English Garden, I highly recommend using Munich’s public transport (goes by the acronym MVV).

The city has an efficient network of S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams, and buses that make travel extremely convenient. We always got a MVV day ticket when we were planning ride the public transport multiple times in a day. Helped save some precious Euros!

Use MVV Journey Planner or the MVV App to plan all your local commutes. If you are looking for city cards and passes, check out the section on travel essentials below.

Munich travel FAQ

What should you not miss in munich.

When in Munich, do not miss the history and architecture at Marienplatz, the open green spaces of Englischer Garten, the mindblowing frescoes and Rococo designs of Munich’s churches , and of course a mug of beer at the beer gardens.

What area of Munich is best to stay?

The best area to stay in Munich is the old town of Munich or Altstadt-Lehel in local language. Many of Munich’s best attractions are clustered around Altstadt-Lehel which makes traveling between places super convenient.

Is Munich worth visiting?

Munich, the capital city of Bavaria, is absolutely worth visiting for its history (both medieval and WW2), stunning churches such as the Frauenkirche and Asamkirche, Bavarian food and beer. Munich also makes for a great springboard for day trips to other beautiful places in Bavaria such as Neuschwanstein, Regensburg, and Berchtesgaden.

Is Munich a walkable city?

Munich’s Old Town is very walkable. If you are only visiting the monuments in and around Marienplatz (which is quite huge in itself), then you can do everything on foot. If you wish to venture a little away from the center, I suggest you use Munich’s efficient public transport.

Munich Germany Travel Essentials

  • Use  Get Your Guide  to find great deals and discounts on tours, attractions, and more across the city. I highly recommend it and use it all the time.
  • Public transport system in Munich is called MVV. If you are looking for inexpensive public transport within Munich and surrounding MVV districts, I highly recommend getting a single or group day ticket on MVV.
  • If you plan to do one or more day trips from Munich, use a Bayern Ticket. Read my complete Bayern Ticket guide to figure out the how, why, and where.
  • Find the  best hotels in Munich Germany here .
  • Get a  CityTourCard for Munich  if you wish to see a lot when you are here. It offers you free public transport and discounts on several attractions.
  • I prefer to get a Turbopass for Munich because that covers a lot more of what I want to see in the city.

Loved the 25 best places to visit in Munich? Pin it for later!

Traveling to Munich Germany? Here are 25 best things to do in Munich that are totally unmissable. Be it stepping into a medieval church, enjoying a mug of beer, or touching a sea anemone, this amazing Munich bucket list has something for everyone. Be sure to add these amazing Munich things to do to your Munich itinerary and enjoy your trip to Munich. #Munich #Germany

You may also like:

  • DB Bayern Ticket: How To Travel Cheap Within Bavaria…
  • 10 Best Places To Visit In Bavaria In 2023
  • Marienplatz: The Historical Heart Of Munich Germany

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Must-Visit Attractions in Munich

The dynamic, cosmopolitan city of Munich was recently named the worlds most liveable city by travel and lifestyle publication Monocle.

Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or planning to make Munich your new home, there’s plenty to see and do in Germany’s third biggest city. This green city is known for its beautiful parks, many museums, and beautiful palaces. To make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a list of attractions you can’t leave Munich without seeing, from the best museums to stunning city views. Thinking of a trip to Munich? Join our four-day Mini Trip for festive fun and world-class Christmas markets – our Local Insider will guide you around the best spots.

Marienplatz.

Panorama view of Munich city center showing the City Hall and the Frauenkirche

This square has been the heart of the city since 1158 when it was used for markets and even tournaments. Today, it’s best known for the Christmas markets , which start three weeks before Christmas. Marienplatz is dominated by the Neues Rathaus, which covers 9,159 m² (3.5 sq mi) and has over 400 rooms. It was designed by Georg Hauberrisser, who won a competition to design the city’s new town hall. One of its most famous features is the elaborate Glockenspiel cuckoo clock with a carousel of figures dancing at 11am, noon, and 5pm.

Theatinerkirche

tourism in munich germany

Eisbachwelle

The edge of the Englischer Garten opposite Bruderstrasse is home to one of Munich’s favourite and most unlikely pastimes – surfing . As water thunders out from beneath a small bridge, surfers line both sides of the bank waiting patiently for their turn. Surfers need to jump off the bank and onto their board as well as make sharp turns to avoid the river walls – that’s why Munich surf shops sell small boards with kevlar-protected edges. People tackle the waves year round, even during Munich’s bitter winters, and Eisbachwelle is strangely mesmerising.

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Hofbräuhaus

You know beer’s important to a city when there’s a state-run beer hall! The famous Hofbräuhaus dates back to the 16th century and offers the quintessential German beer hall experience complete with live brass band. Oktoberfest rules apply: no service without a seat, so expect to charm your way onto the end of a table and share space. If possible, avoid Friday and Saturday nights; as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Munich, it can take over 45 minutes to find a table and get a beer. For speedier service and a less stressful experience, go on a Sunday evening instead.

Glyptothek museum

One of the most impressive Neoclassical buildings of Königsplatz is the Glyptothek . This beautiful building claims to be the only museum in the world dedicated solely to ancient sculpture. Visitors are free to wander the exhibits and get up close with the art, which is openly laid out rather than hidden away behind glass. Far from a stuffy traditional museum, it feels like an art gallery and prides itself on interesting, modern twists – they currently have modern replicas of famous statues carved from wood with a chainsaw. An entry ticket will also grant access into the State Collection of Antiques in the opposite building, and it’s just €1 on Sundays.

This park in the southwest of the city, about 10 minutes on the U-Bahn from Marienplatz, is often overlooked by tourists, yet it has so much to offer. As well as a BBQ area by the lake, it has a Japanese garden, a Thai temple and even an outdoor cinema in summer. Many families and friends bring picnics or have a BBQ, but there’s also a beer garden and a tiny wooden hut selling spit-roasted fish ( steckerlfisch ) for those who don’t fancy cleaning the BBQ!

Right at the exit of Odeonsplatz U-Bahn station is the prestigious Residenz . Though it started as a modest castle in 1385, subsequent rulers renovated and expanded it, eventually turning it into a grand palace and gardens. Today, it’s a vast complex of museum and exhibitions about Bavaria’s history and also plays host to classical concerts and music competitions. Except for a handful of public holidays, it’s open daily until 5pm or 6pm, depending on the season. Make sure to leave luggage at home or the hotel – there are strict rules about bringing large bags into the Residenz.

Bavaria Statue

Munich’s answer to the Statue of Liberty stands guard over the Oktoberfest grounds each year. The 18.5-metre-tall (60.75 ft) statue erected in 1850 by King Ludwig I personifies Bavaria. Cast entirely in bronze and weighing almost 90 tons, it’s so big it had to be produced in several parts. Hidden inside the statue is a spiral staircase that leads to an observation deck, where the entire Oktoberfest area and downtown Munich are visible through four slits in her helmet.

NS-Dokumentationzentrum

tourism in munich germany

This museum is a reminder of a past that Munich all too often tries to sweep under the rug. More than a collection of Nazi documents, its focuses on the history of antisemitism and racism, and the many different forms they can take. Its blank white walls and hushed, library-like atmosphere mirror the seriousness of its content. The exhibits are almost entirely text based, so reading stools are even provided for relief – make sure to take one as you’re bound to spend more time here than intended.

St Peter’s Church

A famous Munich landmark, St Peter’s Church ( Peterskirche ) towers above the city on a hill between Rindermarkt and Marienplatz, making it the perfect spot for an incredible view . From 56 metres (183.7 feet) up, look right down onto the rooftops of Aldstadt and Frauenkirche, the symbol of Munich. On a clear day , visitors can see over 100 kilometres (62 miles) into the distance, all the way to the Alps! Such a great view takes some legwork; there’s a winding spiral staircase with 306 steps to the top.

Müller´sches Volksbad

A swimming pool might not sound like much of a destination, but this beautiful Art Nouveau building on the banks of the Isar shouldn’t be missed. Müller´sches Volksbad has been a public pool since it opened in 1901, and taking a dip today still costs only €4.40 (£3.75/$4.70). Inside is also a Roman steam bath and a Finnish-style sauna with colourful lighting. You’ll need to make like a Münchener, though, and leave the bathing suit at the door – saunas are an important part of German culture, and in most saunas, swimwear is actually banned.

State Collection of Egyptian Art

Despite covering over 5,000 years with its collection, this museum prides itself on presenting its ancient relics in an easily digestible way – quality over quantity. The building itself is worth seeing; set below ground with bare concrete walls, large halls, and custom neon lights, it manages to be modern and interesting yet match its contents perfectly. Good German-speakers can also attend one of their regular lectures on ancient Egyptian culture.

Nymphenburg Palace

tourism in munich germany

Nymphenburg Palace was built to celebrate the birth of the Bavarian heir Max Emanuel to the throne. With its beautiful gardens and grand rooms, it soon became a favorite of Bavarian rulers, several of whom were born or died here. Not as many rooms of the palace are open to tourists as might be expected; after seeing everything inside, get some fresh air in the extensive formal gardens. There’s even a dedicated app that uses augmented reality to help visitors learn more about what they’re looking at.

The Botanical Gardens

Right next door to Nymphenburg Palace are Munich’s Botanical Gardens , covering over 50 acres. The greenhouse complex is home to everything from palm trees to terrapins inside its beautifully tropical environment – keep an eye out for the lawn-mowing robot. There’s also a café in the centre of the gardens serving full meals, alcoholic drinks, and excellent ice cream Open almost everyday until early evening, the gardens are strangely good for a rainy day , and at only €4.50 a ticket for adults, visiting is a bargain.

Frauenkirche

Frauenkirche’s two iconic onion domes are the most distinctive part of the Munich skyline . It was built in the late 15th century but was badly damaged by airstrikes in World War II and has been gradually restored. Look round the small inner chapels, and also find the grave of Holy Roman Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian inside. Climb the south tower for views across Munich – see right across to the Alps a clear day.

The Monopteros, Englisch Garten

tourism in munich germany

While the garden is better known for river surfing and naked sunbathing than it is for its views, there’s also a Grecian-style bandstand called the Monopteros, hidden in this sprawling 900-acre park. Munich is a pretty flat city, so King Ludwig I decided a Greek temple was just what his Englisch Garten needed, and the hill was constructed 15 metres (49 feet) high from bricks then covered with earth. Today, it offers views back down to central Munich including the distinctive onion domes of Frauenkirche.

Viktualienmarkt

Food market is a bit of an understatement for the sprawling stalls of Viktualienmarkt . The grandfather of Munich food markets , it moved to the square between Frauenstrasse and Heiliggeist-Kirche after outgrowing its original home at the heart of the city in Marienplatz. Today, the market offers everything from fresh vegetables and spices to butchers. It’s a great place to go for lunch – choose between homemade soup and a pretzel to fresh falafel. It’s also expanded beyond just food, and you can pick up homemade toiletries and fresh flowers.

Luitpoldpark

Though this park is best known as the place to go tobogganing in Munich in winter, it also offers great views of the city from its hill, made from World War II rubble. On a clear day, even the Alps are visible. Rather than a traditional beer garden, Luitpoldpark has a Mexican cantina at its centre. Ready to work off those spicy tacos? Join one of the free “Fit im Park” sessions run by the city, or just get lost in the hedge maze.

Asam Church

tourism in munich germany

Tucked in between the buildings on Sendlingerstrasse is one of the most important late baroque buildings in southern Germany. This tiny chapel measures just 22 by 8 metres (72 by 26 feet), but it’s full of ornate marble work and statues. It was built from 1733 to 1746 by the Asam brothers as their personal chapel, hoping to secure their salvation in building it – they could even see the altar from their house next door. The interior of the church conveys their goal quite clearly: the lightest part of the church is the top, symbolising the salvation of heaven, while the pews representing the earth are mostly in darkness.

Museum Brandhorst

Museum Brandhorst only opened its doors in 2009 but has already become an established part of the Munich art museum trail. Rather than packing the hyper-modern building full of exhibits, the museum has wide-open galleries and vast white walls. Its permanent exhibitions include works by modern art icons such as Damien Hirst, Joseph Beuys and Andy Warhol (including his Marilyn portrait). Make the most of €1 entry on Sundays and avoid Mondays when the Brandhorst is closed.

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Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in munich for every traveller.

tourism in munich germany

Where to Stay in Munich For a Local Experience

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The Best Holiday Apartments to Book in Munich, Germany

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Food & Drink

Where to find munich's best bakeries.

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Guides & Tips

The best things to do in munich, germany.

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The Best Artisanal Shops in Munich

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Restaurants

The best michelin-star restaurants in munich, germany.

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Bars & Cafes

Munich’s best beer halls and gardens for a year-round oktoberfest.

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A Curator’s Guide to Munich’s Best Museums

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Munich's Best Cheap Eats Recommendations

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The Best Way To Spend 48 Hours in Munich

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Munich After Dark: Where To Drink and Where To Dance

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5 Days in Munich, Germany: The Ultimate Itinerary

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Are you considering visiting Munich, Germany, in the heart of Bavaria? Comparing all the cities I have seen, it is one of my favorites worldwide. This city effortlessly blends its rich history with modern sophistication. It is perfect for everyone! Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a food lover, an art aficionado, or simply seeking unforgettable experiences, Munich has something to captivate every traveler’s heart. 

Bonus: it is incredibly safe for solo travelers!  

Spring Fest Munich Ferris wheel 2

Airports 

Munich, being a major international city, has two airports that visitors can fly into:

Munich Airport (Flughafen München):

  • This is the primary and larger airport, officially known as Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC). It is approximately 28.5 kilometers (17.7 miles) northeast of Munich city center. Munich Airport is one of Germany’s busiest and most well-connected airports, offering a wide range of domestic, European, and intercontinental flights.

Side Note: We love flying Lufthansa and using our Amex Platinum to visit Lufthansa’s lounge before our flight! (Click here to learn more)

Memmingen Airport (Allgäu Airport):

  • While not located directly in Munich, Memmingen Airport (FMM) is sometimes called “Munich West Airport.” It is about 115 kilometers (71 miles) southwest of Munich and is a smaller secondary airport focusing on budget airlines and regional flights. Visitors who fly into Memmingen Airport must take additional transportation to reach Munich city center; I recommend MUC over FMM. 

Most international travelers will likely arrive at Munich International Airport, as it is the main airport serving Munich and offers a broader range of flight options and better connectivity to the city.

How to Get Around Munich, Germany

Munich boasts one of Europe’s most efficient and comprehensive public transportation systems, making it a breeze for locals and travelers to navigate the city easily. The backbone of Munich’s public transport network is the extensive S-Bahn (suburban trains) and U-Bahn (subway) system, which connects all central districts and attractions and extends to the outskirts. With frequent and punctual services, getting from one point to another is a seamless experience. Additionally, trams and buses complement the network, ensuring that every corner of the city is accessible. Travelers can opt for single tickets or multiple-day passes, providing flexibility to explore Munich, Germany, at their own pace. Munich’s public transportation is a hassle-free and eco-friendly way to delve into the city’s cultural wonders.

UBahn Munich

Summer (June to August): Summer in Munich is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from mild to occasionally hot. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, festivals, and events. It’s also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds at popular attractions and higher hotel rates. The highlight of Munich’s summer is the legendary Oktoberfest, which begins in late September and spills into early October.

Autumn/Fall (September to November): Autumn in Munich is beautiful, with colorful foliage adding a touch of magic to the city. The weather is generally mild, making it an excellent time for sightseeing and exploring the city on foot or by bicycle. The beginning of September, in particular, offers a less crowded Oktoberfest experience, as it starts towards the end of the month.

Winter (December to February): Winter in Munich is cold but also brings a cozy and festive atmosphere with charming Christmas markets, where you can indulge in hot mulled wine and delicious treats. The city’s architecture looks enchanting under a dusting of snow, and it’s an excellent time for indoor activities like visiting museums and enjoying warm meals in traditional Bavarian restaurants.

Krampus Parade Munich

Visit the Munich Residenz Palace , Exploring its Opulent Rooms and Gardens.

  • Walking distance from the Marienpltz is the Munich Residenz Palace. It is a captivating masterpiece and stands proudly as one of Europe’s most remarkable royal residences. Nestled in the heart of Munich, this sprawling complex boasts over 130 rooms, each exquisitely adorned with opulent decor and intricate details that showcase the wealth and influence of the Wittelsbach dynasty, which ruled Bavaria for centuries. Ticket prices here .

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Museums 

Explore the Pinakothek der Moderne Museums : Art lovers, Listen Up! 

Art is not my favorite, but I know essential names when I see them! 

Alte Pinakothek  – European art from the Middle Ages to the Rococo period

  • You’ll be blown away by the works of renowned artists like Rubens, Rembrandt, and Leonardo da Vinci, among others. It’s a real treasure trove for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Neue Pinakothek  – 19th to 20th-century art, including Impressionist works 

  • The Neue Pinakothek in Munich is where it’s at for art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. They have all the big names like Van Gogh and Monet, so you know you’re in for a treat. Stroll through this cool museum and soak in the creativity of those legendary artists. 

Visit the Nymphenburg Palace and its Magnificent Gardens

  • If you’re into fancy palaces and jaw-dropping gardens, Nymphenburg Palace in Munich is the spot for you! This super cool Baroque palace makes you feel like you are in a royal movie. Stroll through its posh rooms, check out the fancy decorations, and chill in the fabulous gardens. Don’t miss it when you’re in Munich; it’s worth it!

Nymphenburg Palace

Enjoy an Evening at the Bavarian State Opera or a Local Theater Performance

  • This is for my culture seekers! Research spending an evening at the Bavarian State Opera or catching a local theater performance. The world-class talent and breathtaking performances blow you away, plus it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene. Grab some popcorn or a glass of beer, kick back, and let the magic of the stage take you away! I have not done this yet, but it’s on my list! 

IMG 3825

Day 3: Get Outside the City 

Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle and the Bavarian Alps

  • Spend a full day outside of the city. Take an early departure to the Neuschwanstein Castle. This castle looks straight out of a Disney movie, perched on a hill with breathtaking views. And the Alps are unreal with their majestic peaks and stunning landscapes – perfect for hiking and photo ops. So, if you’re looking for a magical day filled with awe and wonder, this trip is an absolute no-brainer!
  • While there, do a guided tour inside King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle and its fascinating history. Make sure you purchase in advance! 

After that, head into Füssen to explore this charming little gem. Shameless plug here – it’s the town Wes, and I got married in 😀

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Schweinshaxe (Pork Knuckle):

  • A must-try for my meat lovers! A hearty dish consisting of roasted pork knuckle seasoned with spices and herbs, resulting in crispy skin and tender meat. It’s often served with sauerkraut and potato dumplings.
  • A delightful cheese spread made from Camembert or other soft cheeses mixed with butter, onions, and spices. It’s commonly served with pretzels or bread and pairs perfectly with a cold Bavarian beer.
  • Bavarian pretzels are a culinary staple characterized by their large size, soft texture, and deep brown crust. Enjoy them on their own, or pair them with sausages and mustard.

Kaiserschmarrn:

  • A delicious dessert consisting of a fluffy shredded pancake, often served with powdered sugar, applesauce, or fruit compote for a sweet and satisfying treat. We did this as the dessert at our wedding, and it was so good 😉
  • Often referred to as Bavarian meatloaf, this savory treat is made from ground pork and beef, finely minced with spices, and baked to perfection. It’s typically served as a slice on a bread roll with mustard. 

Bavarian/Local Drinks 

Hugo Spritz:

  • This delightful beverage is a sparkling cocktail that combines Prosecco, elderflower syrup, fresh mint leaves, lime, and soda water. With a light and bubbly taste, a must-try! 

Radler (Beer with Lemonade):

  • Radler is a mix of beer and lemonade, perfect for a lighter option, creating a thirst-quenching and fizzy drink. It’s a popular choice during warm days and outdoor activities.

Apfelschorle (Apple Spritzer):

  • Apfelschorle is a non-alcoholic drink mixing apple juice with sparkling mineral water. It’s a crisp and refreshing option for adults and kids.

Obstler (Fruit Schnapps):

  • For those seeking a taste of Bavarian spirits, Obstler is a fruit brandy made from a mix of apples, pears, and sometimes other fruits. It’s a robust and aromatic drink usually enjoyed as a digestive after a hearty meal. My favorite, though… Hazelnut schnapps, give both a try! 
  • Although not originally Bavarian, Almdudler is a famous Austrian soda often found in Bavaria. This herbal lemonade with a blend of 32 alpine herbs offers a unique and refreshing alternative to traditional soft drinks.

Beer 101 

While in Munich, make sure to sample these three types of Bavarian beers to immerse yourself in the rich brewing traditions of the region:

Weißbier (Wheat Beer):

  • Weißbier, or wheat beer, is a Bavarian specialty with a distinct cloudy appearance and a refreshing, fruity flavor. Brewed with a significant proportion of wheat, it offers notes of banana and clove, making it a delightful choice for beer enthusiasts seeking a unique and aromatic taste.

Helles (Light Lager):

  • My personal favorite! Helles is a classic Bavarian pale lager known for its golden color and balanced taste. It has a mild, malty sweetness complemented by a subtle hop bitterness, making it incredibly smooth and easy to drink. Helles is a popular choice for locals and visitors and pairs well with traditional Bavarian dishes.

Dunkles (Dark Lager):

  • Dunkles is a traditional dark lager that showcases the rich malty flavors of Bavarian beer-making. This beer boasts a deep brown color with hints of caramel and toffee, resulting in a more robust and slightly sweet taste. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for a hearty and flavorful beer option.

Each of these Bavarian beers brings a unique character and taste to your beer-drinking experience in Munich. Whether at a bustling beer hall, a charming beer garden, or a cozy pub, trying these iconic brews will undoubtedly enhance your trip and provide a genuine taste of Bavarian culture.

Put Munich on your radar now

In conclusion, Munich, Germany, is an enchanting destination that captivates travelers from all walks of life. With its seamless blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, this Bavarian capital offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. Embrace the warmth and friendliness of the locals, savor the mouthwatering Bavarian cuisine and beer, and immerse yourself in the city’s festivals and traditions. Munich will undoubtedly leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return. So, pack your bags, set out on an adventure, and let Munich’s allure cast its spell on you as you uncover the hidden treasures of this remarkable city waiting to be explored.

Did I miss anything? Comment with some of your favorite things to do in Munich below! 

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'March beer' once lubricated Munich's famous fall fest, now found year-round only in US

Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, the world’s most famous fall beer bash, first germinated in the cool brewing season of spring. 

And the best place to taste its original, strong, amber-colored beer is not in Bavaria in autumn.

It's here in the United States 12 months a year.

SPINACH SALESMAN POPEYE REMAINS EFFECTIVE NEARLY A CENTURY AFTER HIS DEBUT

"There are a lot of traditional beer styles that are more popular in the United States than they are in their original sources in Germany or elsewhere in Europe," Brett Peruzzi of Massachusetts, owner of Peruzzi Communications and beer columnist for Yankee Brew News, told Fox News Digital.

Oktoberfest beer is perhaps the most notable among them.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The traditional beer style served at Oktoberfest in Munich was called Marzenbier, or "March beer."

It was brewed in March, aged or "lagered" in cool underground caverns through the summer, and tapped in the autumn.

INTERMITTENT FASTING LINKED TO HIGHER RISK OF HEART-RELATED DEATH IN NEW STUDY

Marzen beer rolled out of the caves ready to tap just around the time barley and hops for beer — and other summer crops — were ready for harvest. 

It was a celebratory time, as harvest season is in cultures around the world. 

Marzenbier became a sensation in 1810, when it was hoisted to celebrate the autumn marriage of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese in Munich. 

It’s the festival we now know as Oktoberfest.

The original Marzen beer served at Oktoberfest was strong and full-flavored with a distinctive, rich, amber color. 

But anyone who's stood on a table in one of the raucous beer tents at Oktoberfest in recent decades, and sang "Country Roads" at full throat, did so swaying with an easy-drinking, golden-colored lager.

MEET THE AMERICAN WHO INVENTED LIGHT BEER

"Marzen was the original beer brewed at Oktoberfest and served at the wedding," Steve Hauser, CEO of Paulaner USA, based in White Plains, New York, told Fox News Digital. 

Paulaner is one of the six Munich breweries that host Oktoberfest.

The original dark amber beer was served at Oktoberfest at least until the 1970s, he said.

"The whole world was going to lighter lagers," said Hauser. "The German brewers did not want to be left behind, so they switched to lighter lagers, too."

Paulaner sells both styles of beer, as do many other brewers. 

Paulaner Oktoberfestbier is a light-colored, easy-drinking lager released as a seasonal beer each autumn in the United States. 

"It's identical to the beer served today at Oktoberfest in Munich," said Hauser.

Paulaner Marzenbier is the traditional full-flavored amber lager originally served at Oktoberfest. 

It's available 12 months a year and sold almost exclusively in the United States. 

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American beer consumers, the beer executive said, want to consume the traditional Bavarian beer year-round – even as Bavarian consumers have shed their own world-famous beer-making legacy.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle.

Original article source: 'March beer' once lubricated Munich's famous fall fest, now found year-round only in US

Glasses of Marzen ("March") beer from Duck Rabbit Craft Brewery of North Carolina. The dark style of beer was traditional in Germany but is now found mostly in the United States. Getty Images

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  • Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sané will travel to Frankfurt to watch Germany vs. the Netherlands

The suspended winger probably wants to show face in hopes of staying in Julian Nagelsmann’s good graces.

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Austria v Germany - International Friendly

During Germany’s 2-0 victory over France on Saturday, one thing was evident — it will be extremely hard for anyone to displace Bayern Munich ’s Jamal Musiala and Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz as part of the German national team’s attack.

What does that mean for players like Leroy Sané and Serge Gnabry? Well, it might be time to put in a little extra effort. For Sané, the attacker will get started with that by traveling to Frankfurt to watch the Germans take on the Netherlands on Tuesday per kicker:

Despite his suspension, Leroy Sané will travel to Frankfurt on Tuesday to spend the day with the national team and Julian Nagelsmann and then watch the game against the Netherlands in the stadium.

Sky Sport journo Florian Plettenberg chimed in with additional information:

Leroy #Sané will join the German national team in Frankfurt on Tuesday to spend the day with the team, staff, and coaches. ➡️ In the evening, he will watch the game against the Netherlands in the stadium ➡️ The team wants to come closer together, which is why Sané is traveling even though he is currently suspended and will not play against on Tuesday evening. Sané is in close communication with Julian Nagelsmann and is firmly planned for the EUROs squad!

Despite his precipitous fall in form over the course of this season, Sané is still considered to be on of Germany’s best attackers. However, his red card suspension opened the door for Nagelsmann to experiment with a lineup featuring Wirtz and Musiala as attackers working in the half spaces, where interchanging with each other — and attacking midfielder İlkay Gündoğan.

One could argue that the attack was more dangerous than at any point in recent years, while featuring Wirtz and Musiala. It worked out extremely well and could make it very difficult for Sané or anyone else to break into the starting XI barring any injuries.

Looking for more thoughts and analysis of Germany’s massive 2-0 victory over France? Then Chuck and Jack have you covered with the Bavarian Podcast Works — Postgame Show! You can check it out on Spotify or below:

In This Stream

Germany’s march 2024 international break: all updates.

  • Player ratings: Germany 2-1 Netherlands
  • Julian Nagelsmann lauds German national team’s stunning 2-0 win over France

More From Bavarian Football Works

  • Germany, Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala: “I am no longer Bambi”
  • Training Report: Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane completes part of team training; Manuel Neuer, Aleksandar Pavlović work out individually; Thomas Müller, Leroy Sané already back; Bouna Sarr rehabs; and MORE!
  • Thomas Müller jokes around with Kai Havertz once again as Germany overcome the Netherlands
  • Julian Nagelsmann returning to Bayern Munich is “unrealistic”
  • Report: Stuttgart expects Chris Führich to leave in the summer; Bayern Munich preparing to pounce

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Football fans from Germany in the centre of Munich.

European Football Championship 2024 in Munich

A football festival for europe.

What a great honor - the opening match of UEFA EURO 2024 will take place in Munich! Find out more about the opening match in Munich, the match schedule, the dates and how to get tickets. An unforgettable stay is guaranteed during the big football festival in Munich.

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UEFA Euro 2024: Overview

- Tickets - Stadiums, Dates & Schedule - FAN FEST EURO 2024 - FC Bayern and "the lions" - The best tips for football fans in Munich

The European Football Championship 2024 will be held in Germany for the first time since 1988. It will actually be the first European Football Championship in Germany since reunification! The tournament kicks off in Munich on 14 June and the final will be played in Berlin's Olympic Stadium on 14 July 2024.

We remember: Italy were the European champions at UEFA EURO 2020, which was not held until 2021 due to Covid but kept its name. So next year, the question will be which European team has the power to replace the reigning European champions.

A woman in Germany jersey in Munich.

Great activities for those who love football

Stopover, short trip, long weekend or a whole week: here are some ideas for those who love football.

Tickets for the European Football Championship 2024

In addition to the opening match with the German national team, three further preliminary round matches, a round of 16 match and a semi-final will take place in Munich at FC Bayern's home stadium. The ticket draw has already taken place. Phase two of ticket sales started on December 2 after the group draw. All information on ticket sales can be found on the UEFA website. All information on ticket sales can be found on the UEFA website .

The official logo of the host city Munich for UEFA EURO 2024.

Euro 2024 in Germany – stadiums, dates and match schedule

The dates for the matches have already been set, so you can already make a note of them in your diary. The European Championship kicks off on 14 June at 9 pm with the DFB team's match against against Scotland in Munich's Football Arena. The group stage will then run from 14 to 26 June. The winners of the round of 16 will be determined between 29 June and 2 July. Only four teams will remain after the quarter-finals from 5 to 6 July. And finally, the semi-finals on 9 and 10 July will decide who goes through to the final on 14 July in Berlin's Olympic Stadium.

In addition to Munich, nine other German cities and their large stadiums will host UEFA EURO 2024: Berlin, Hamburg, Leipzig, Cologne, Dortmund, Gelsenkirchen, Düsseldorf, Stuttgart and Frankfurt.

You can find the full UEFA EURO 2024 match schedule here

Fixtures in the Munich Football Arena

June 14 Germany - Scotland

June 17 Romania - Play-off winner B

June 20 Slovenia - Serbia

June 25 Denmark - Serbia

July 2 Round of 16

July 9 Semifinal

FAN FEST EURO 2024

On the Theresienwiese, where the annual Oktoberfest takes place, you can experience the musical highlight of EURO 2024. On June 12, 90,000 guests will attend the FAN FEST EURO 2024 with artists such as Ed Sheeran, Nelly Furtado, Mark Forster and Dylan. Tickets are available on Eventim from March 28. Look forward to an event with live acts, fan activities and culinary delights. Soccer legends such as Philipp Lahm and Celia Šašić will also be on stage.

You can find more information at eurofanfest.de

Munich is football and football is Munich

With its infrastructure and hospitality, Munich is ideally placed to welcome football fans from all over the world and give them a wonderful time in Munich. This was demonstrated during the “Sommermärchen“ (summer fairytale) of the 2006 World Cup, when a marvellous international festival was celebrated here for almost four weeks in the best weather and the best atmosphere. The Fußball Arena München (Munich Football Arena) with its magnificent air-cushion architecture by Herzog and de Meuron was completed just in time for the 2006 World Cup. Its outer skin, usually illuminated in the red of FC Bayern, marks the entrance to the football city of Munich from the north.

A group of football fans, including two women and two men in the jerseys of the German and Spanish national teams, celebrate in Munich's pedestrian zone.

Munich's teams: FC Bayern and “die Löwen“ (Lions)

Munich is home to football, one of the best teams in the world, FC Bayern regularly celebrates its successes here in the heart of the city on Marienplatz and receives ovations from its many fans on the balcony of Munich's Neues Rathaus (City Hall). There is a high probability that FC Bayern players will be nominated for the German 2024 European Championship squad.

Munich also has another traditional team , the TSV 1860 (the “Lions“). They are based in Munich's Giesing district and still have their own cult stadium, the Grünwalder Stadion. For years, both teams played in Munich's legendary Olympiastadion .

A young man and are women are climbing up a small hill at the festival Tollwood in Munich.

June: Tollwood & Film Festival

In June, Munich is a big stage: the Allianz Arena is the venue for the European Football Championship and the Tollwood Festival.

Enjoy Munich before and after the game

During the football-free period, you can really enjoy yourself in Munich. Whether it's typical Bavarian food , sightseeing or even a trip to the wonderful Alpine foothills , fans have countless options for things to do in and around Munich during the football-free period. It's best to plan a few more days!

Discover the best tips for football fans in Munich now!

Text: Karoline Graf; Photos: Christian Kasper, UEFA EURO 2024

Also interesting:.

  • City tour and FC Bayern football tour
  • FC Bayern München La Isla Bonita: FC Bayern fans from all over the world
  • Football report Kick it in Giesing!

Three people are sitting in the evening sun by the Isar in Munich and one of them is playing a guitar.

Local Love Munich

Munich's districts are diverse, contrasting and worth exploring. Immerse yourself!

Chinese football fans are standing on the promenade in front of the Allianz Arena in Munich.

FC Bayern München

La isla bonita bayern.

Every home game is attended by fans who have travelled from around the world. Three of them explain why.

Every FC Bayern München home game is attended by fans who have travelled from around the world. Three of them explain why.

Massage table in the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Allianz Arena

A look behind the scenes.

Experience the unique atmosphere in the players zones and catacombs of the Allianz Arena on an arena tour!

Only the players and coaches are allowed in here: experience the unique atmosphere in the players zones and catacombs of the Allianz Arena on an arena tour!

Three trophies in the Erlebniswelt FC Bayern München.

FC Bayern Museum

Football museum at its best.

The FC Bayern Museum gives visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the successful German record breakers’ story.

An emotional journey: the FC Bayern Museum gives visitors the chance to get up close and personal with the successful German record breakers’ story.

The Allianz Arena in Munich illuminated in red at sunset.

Enjoy world-class football

In the Allianz Arena you can enjoy first-class football and the FC Bayern Museum.

The heart of football in northern Munich: at the Allianz Arena, you can marvel at top-class matches and enjoy the FC Bayern Museum.

A closer look at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

Football in Munich

Munich and football.

Munich and its teams: the Reds are a global brand, the Blues have already had better days - but the hearts of the people of Munich are still fairly evenly distributed.

View of the Neues Rathaus and the towers of the Frauenkirche in Munich.

Neues Rathaus

Fc bayern's favourite balcony.

The Neues Rathaus is the home of politics and its balcony is also the place where FC Bayern greet their fans when they've won the championships.

Panoramic view from the Olympiaberg with Olympic Lake, Olympic Tower and the headquarter of BMW in Munich in the background.

Olympiapark

The key to success in 1972.

The Olympiapark in the north of Munich is a great example of the successful reuse of an Olympic venue.

The Olympiapark in the north of Munich is a great example of the successful reuse of an Olympic venue. And there is still a lot to do here in terms of sports and culture.

München Card und München Pass

Munich Card & City Pass

Discover Munich in a relaxed and uncomplicated way: discounts for the diverse range of art, culture and leisure activities with our guest cards.

tourism in munich germany

Free Public transport

Reduced or included!

Public transport is included

Many discounts with the Card, many things for free with the Pass.

Online or at the tourist information offices

Towers of the Frauenkirche in Munich taken from the air.

Frauenkirche: Visit of the South Tower

Book a visit to the observation deck of Munich's Frauenkirche and enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.

Munich's Palace of Justice

Justizpalast Tour

During the guided tour of the present-day seat of the Bavarian State Ministry of Justice, you will learn everything about the history and significance of the neo-baroque court and administrative building.

Courtyard of the Neues Rathaus in Munich.

Visit of the New Town Hall Tower

Discover Munich's highlights from a very special perspective after just a few seconds in the lift!

Towers of the Frauenkirche in Munich taken from the air.

Romantic Road: Rothenburg and Harburg

Hop on and be whisked away by one of the world's most beautiful stretches of street: the Romantic Road to Rothenburg and Harburg.

Small meeting room of the Neues Rathaus in Munich

New Town Hall Tour

Explore the Neue Rathaus on Marienplatz with an official City of Munich tour guide. A visit of the famous law library is also included!

Explore the Neue Rathaus on Marienplatz with an official tour guide. A visit of the famous law library is also included!

Magistrates, Monachia and magnificent celebrations: explore the Neue Rathaus on Marienplatz with an official City of Munich tour guide. A visit of the famous law library is also included!

Neuschwanstein Castle in the surrounding region of Munich.

Dream castles Neuschwanstein & Linderhof VIP

As VIP in the footsteps of King Ludwig II. On this day tour in the luxurious long-distance coach of Gray Line Sightseeing you can visit both dream castles of the fairytale king.

A day tour in the luxurious long-distance coach of Gray Line Sightseeing.

Law library in the new city hall in Munich.

Visit of the Law Library: Juristische Bibliothek

Impressive architecture and unique ambience: discover the Law Library in the New Town Hall.

Several pedicaps with guests in the Englischer Garten (park).

Pedicab tour through the old town and nature

Enjoy this special tour and pedicap ride past all the famous sights of Munich's old town and into the Englischer Garten.

Exterior view of the Hofbräuhaus Munich at dusk.

Hofbräuhaus Tour

Discover the most famous beer hall in the world with an official guide of the city of Munich and enjoy a fresh Mass of beer afterward!

Towers and Alps in Munich

City trip incl. Munich Card and Tower Ascent

We look forward to seeing you again in Munich. Our tip: the exclusive travel package with Munich Card and Tower Ascent.

Towers at Marienplatz in Munich

Old Town Tour

The city walk for everyone who wants to become acquainted with the most beautiful parts of Munich's city centre.

Wort kettle at the Spaten brewery in Munich.

Spaten Brewery Tour

Experience a brewery tour at Spaten with a look behind the scenes, interesting facts about the company history and beer tasting in the brewery tower.

A woman with varnished fingernails holds a gift with the inscription "simply Munich".

Buy now vouchers for your visit in Munich. The ideal gift! Guided tours, guest cards and more...

Alter Peter, Frauenkirche and Neues Rathaus: the Munich skyline in the evening light.

Private guided tour through Munich's Old Town

Exclusive and safe: Discover the most beautiful sights and corners of Munich's city centre with your official personal guide.

A stone jug with the inscription Oktoberfest Munich.

Oktoberfest Shop

Bring a piece of Oktoberfest home: Purchase official souvenirs such as the Wiesn poster or the Oktoberfest beer stein in the official Oktoberfest shop.

A woman in the exhibition "Der Blaue Reiter" in the Lenbachhaus in Munich

Discovery trip incl. City Pass

2 nights in your selected hotel and - thanks to the City Pass - free admission to 45 museums, sights and attractions: our travel package for explorers.

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Guided Tours

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Travel Packages

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Accomodation

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Give the gift of a special Munich voucher: we also offer vouchers for all our guided tours. Here you can book unique Munich experiences directly online, print them out and give them as a gift voucher to friends or family.

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  • Book excursions
  • Book the Munich-Card
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Sport | Football

Bayern Munich dealt double blow ahead of Champions League reunion with Arsenal

Bayern Munich have been dealt a double blow ahead of their Champions League showdown with Arsenal next month.

The German giants were drawn against the Gunners in a thrilling quarter-final tie, which will see former Tottenham captain Harry Kane return to north London.

Bayern, who knocked Arsenal out of the competition with an aggregate score of 10-2 in the 2016/17 season, will be without supporters when they travel to the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday April 9.

UEFA issued Bayern supporters with a ban from attending their away leg after fans threw fireworks onto the pitch during their 3-1 win at Lazio in the last-16.

They were also fined €40,000 after travelling fans set off fireworks during their 2-1 win at FC Copenhagen in October.

The Bundesliga champions were given a suspended one-match ban from purchasing away tickets in December and the subsequent incident at Lazio triggered the ban.

Bayern have now confirmed January signing Sacha Boey will be out for “the next few weeks” with a hamstring injury.

"FC Bayern will be without full-back Sacha Boey for the next few weeks," the club said in a statement.

"The new arrival this winter suffered a torn muscle in his left hamstring during training on Wednesday. The diagnosis was confirmed by the FC Bayern medical unit."

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Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer has also picked up a fresh injury concern and was ruled out of Germany’s upcoming friendlies with France and the Netherlands after sustaining an adductor issue.

“Manuel Neuer left early due to a torn muscle fiber in his left adductor and is out of the two upcoming international matches,” read a statement from the German FA.

“He sustained the injury in training this morning.”

Bayern are at risk of losing their grip on the Bundesliga title this season and trail Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen by ten points ahead of Thomas Tuchel’s exit .

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