Known as a city that celebrates art, fun, and culture, Munich is a must-visit for any traveler. Though it's famous for delicious and world-class beer, there are also plenty of must-visit tourist attractions in Munich, such as historical landmarks, farmers' markets, and local breweries, all filled with beauty and grandeur. Get around the city better with these ideas of the best things to see in Munich!
The geographical and cultural heart of Munich, the Marienplatz is an ideal starting point before seeing the other must-see attractions in the city. The Marienplatz has several extraordinary monuments that will take your breath away, which makes it the most famous square in the city! Gaze upon the Mariensaule, a magnificent column topped with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, surrounded by bronze cherub statues at its base. Make sure to look out for the Neues Rathaus or the New Town Hall, an iconic neo-gothic building that has become a popular choice for postcards. If you visit during the spring or fall, you'll get to enjoy sunny weather and a gentle breeze as you walk around.
With over 370 hectares of lush lawns and vast open space, the English Garden is a peaceful hideaway in the center of Munich. Enjoy a carefree day just lazing on the grass and benches, or choose to try out the other attractions in the area, such as joining a tea ceremony at the Japanese teahouse, surrounded by a beautiful lake or visiting the Monopteros, a Greek temple that offers stunning views of the cityscape. The park also has a very interesting but unexpected feature: the Eisbach, a standing wave where people can surf in the artificial river. Drop by during the summertime to make the most out of the sunshine!
Feel like royalty as you wander around the halls of Nymphenburg Palace, a stunning Baroque palace that highlights Germany's rich history and heritage. Enter the lavishly-decorated rooms such as the Queen's Bedroom, filled with three-dimensional frescoes on the ceilings and the expertly preserved antiques. The palace also houses museums that showcase stunning collections of porcelain and royal carriages, as well as a 490-acre park that's as spectacular as the palace itself, with its cascading waterfalls, a canal, and even a lake! In summer, you can enjoy a peaceful gondola ride in the lake and spot adorable animals roaming the gardens. As one of the most popular historical sites in Munich, Nymphenburg Palace won't disappoint!
See one of the largest city palaces in Germany, transformed by the Wittelsbach dynasty from a small 14-century castle. The best of Munich Residenz include the Treasury, an impressive collection of jewels spanning 1,000 years, the Antiquarium, a grand banquet hall adorned with exquisite ceiling frescoes and paintings, and the Cuvilliés Theatre, a magnificent theater with ornate carvings and bright velvet decor. The palace is simply stunning and is worth visiting when you're in central Munich.
If there’s something synonymous with Germany, it’s beer! Don’t miss out on visiting Hofbräuhaus München, the oldest beer hall in central Munich, where you can learn about the art of brewing as you observe the brewing experts. With over 1,000 seats, traditional German music, the fun atmosphere, and the famous locally-brewed beer, it always feels like Oktoberfest in this pub! Pair your drink with favorites like pork knuckle, pretzels, and sausages for a more authentic taste. You can drop by at any time of the year and enjoy an ice-cold beer for the hot weather.
The Neues Rathaus or New Town Hall towers over the entire square at 300 feet, making it the most striking landmark in Marienplatz. It is intricately adorned with hundreds of statues and arches and holds an iconic two-tiered clock, the Glockenspiel. Watch and listen to the 32 mechanical figures and 43 bells as they tell two stories from the city's history at specific times of the day. You can also ride the elevator up the tower for great views of the city.
Located just east of Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche or the Cathedral of Our Dear Lady is one of the top sights in Munich and the epicenter of the city. The onion domes of its twin towers are recognizable icons that dominate the city's skyline. Stand at the end of the long central nave where you can see the illusion of having no windows. Don't miss the Devil's Footstep, a mark that resembles a footprint and is said to be that of the devil, though the cause for this mark has multiple origins. No matter your beliefs, the cathedral is a marvel you shouldn't miss when you visit the city!
Explore the vast urban space of Olympiapark, an Olympic Park built for the 1972 Summer Olympics. Located in Oberwiesenfeld, visitors are free to enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as jogging, riding a bicycle, or a leisurely walk on a sunny day. Check out the Olympiaturm's observation platform and revolving restaurant, where you can see breathtaking panoramic views of Munich at your feet!
Experience Munich like a local by shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables and gourmet dishes at Victuals Market in the city center. While walking around, try snacks like pretzels and sausages from the friendly vendors, showing the German hospitality of gemütlichkeit. The market also has a variety of flower shops, restaurants, and even a beer garden that's popular with tourists. Make sure to bring some cash with you, as some stalls only accept cash payment!
Celebrate the advancements and history of science and technology with a visit to the Deutsches Museum, the largest museum of its kind. The museum holds a range of exhibits from mining, physics, nanotechnology, to computer science. It even houses interactive displays that allow you to learn about the different topics in a more immersive way, making it one of the most interesting and fun things to do in Munich!
If you love art and beer, then there's no better place to visit! Munich, the capital of Bavaria City is most famous for its world-class beer! No where else in the world has a beer scene as extraordinary as Munich's - so you can guarantee you'll get the best pints here! For the ultimate experience, visit during Oktoberfest and immerse yourself in this century-long tradition that brings together over six million beer lovers!
However, Munich is more than just its beer. From street art to cultural art plastered on the walls of their museums like the Deutsches Museum, we can guarantee you'll be in awe of the city's impressive art scene.
Munich is a charming city that can be appreciated by all kinds of travelers. With its magnificent buildings, museums, and world-famous beer and snacks, you won't run out of things to see and do in the city.
Fall is one of the most popular times to visit Munich, as many tourists want to experience the fun and energy of Oktoberfest. If you want a more laid-back trip with smaller crowds and fair weather, spring is also a good time to visit.
Go back to a different time when you stay at Altstadt or the Old Town, a quaint neighborhood lined with historic buildings. Stay at the cultural center of Maxvorstadt, home to world-famous museums and green spaces.