Munich, Germany
Munich, Germany’s capital of the Free State of Bavaria, is a city of rich history and dynamic culture. It is the third most populous city in Germany. Munich attracts millions with its unique blend of past and present. Boasting unique landmarks including Residenz, Munich Marienplatz, English Garden, Nymphenburg Palace, Olympia Park, and so much more it is a great place to visit. It also hosts the annual Oktoberfest which is every beer lovers dream! It should be on your list of top places to visit while visiting Germany!
Things to do in Munich
Munich Marienplatz
This is the central square of Munich and has been since 1158. It is a pedestrian zone and surrounded by both the old and new town hall. At the center is the Marian column (Mary’s Column) which was erected in 1638 and represents the Swedish occupation during the Thirty Years’ War. If you are visiting during the winter holidays, this is where you will find the incredible Chirstkindlmarkt.
English Garden
The English Garden is Munich’s largest park. This expansive park is very popular place to rest, relax and exercise. If you want to walk the whole park it is about 2 hours and 15 minutes if you do the 6.2 mile loop. It is free to enter and enjoy. While here check out the Monopteros which is a Greek style temple with excellent views of the city. There is also a Chinese Tower with adjacent beer garden and a Japanese Teahouse that has traditional tea ceremonies once a month on a weekend day. You can also onlook some surfing near the Prinzregentenstrabe.
Frauenkirche
Frauenkirche is a gothic 15th century cathedral with iconic domed towers. It is free to enter but there is a fee if you want to go up in the tower. This cathedral has the infamous “Devil’s Footprint”. If you go up the tower you have to walk about about 100 steps on a spiral staircase.
Residenz Munich
The Residenz Munich is the former palace of the Wittelsbach monarchs of Bavaria. It is the largest city palace in Germany. It is open for visitors and boasts 130 rooms and 10 courtyards. It is impressive and expansive. You cannot bring backpacks or your own strollers though they have free stroller rental if desired. With admission there is an audioguide if you want. Plan to spend several hours here. It will blow you away!
Asamkirche
Asamkirche is a fabulous Baroque church that was built between 1733 and 1746. It is one of southern Germany’s most significant Baroque buildings. Visiting is free and most days open from 9AM-6PM (except Fridays 1-6PM).
Nymphenburg Palace
Nymphenburg Palace in Munich, Germany, is a stunning Baroque palace with sprawling gardens, grand halls, and intricate frescoes. Once the summer residence of Bavarian royalty, it boasts beautiful lakes, fountains, and pavilions. It is a great place to visit while in Munich!
Munich Beer Gardens
No trip is complete to Munich without a visit to a beer garden. There are so many across the city. You can go to some in the English Garden. You can find ones in small parks across the city. You can also go to some of the famous beer halls including: Hofbräu, Spaten-Franziskaner, Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Paulaner and Löwenbräu
St. Peter’s Church and Tower
St. Peter’s Church is a Roman Catholic Church in central Munich near Marienplatz. Alter Peter, “Old Peter” is a 299 ft (91m) tower that visitors can climb to get epic panoramic views of Munich. You can visit the church for free but there is a fee to climb the more than 300 steps to the viewing platform of the tower. 5 euros in 2024.
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest draws millions of visitors for this iconic festival. It is a true celebration with beer halls, amusement rides and local cuisine. It is celebrated annually near the end of September (confusing given the name). If you have the opportunity to attend I highly recommend it! It is an unforgettable experience.
Day Trips from Munich
The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is located near Munich, Germany. Dachau, established in 1933, was the first Nazi concentration camp. This memorial site is a reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust. The memorial honors the victims and serves as a place of reflection and remembrance. Read more about visiting this memorial HERE.
Linderhof Palace
Linderhof Palace, located in Bavaria, is one of the three palaces built by King Ludwig II. This was his primary residence. It is ornately decorated and has beautiful gardens with fountain.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle located in Bavaria, Germany, is a fairy-tale fortress built by King Ludwig II. Perched atop a hill with breathtaking views, its enchanting towers and grand halls inspired Disney’s castle designs.
Other top tourist attractions
Some other top attractions in the Munich area include the BMW Museum, Deutsches Museum, Olympiapark, Alte Pinakothek, Pinakothek der Moderne, Odeonsplatz, Konigsplatz and more.
Visit Munich
Munich should definitely be on your list of top Germany destinations. You will absolutely love your time visiting this incredible city!
