Why visit Munich
Museums
Munich has a vast selection of museums to delight visitors. Ranging from art to technology, several of these cultural sites are found in the city’s art district, the Kunstareal. Enriching experiences await in Munich.
Residenz Museum
The Residenz Museum was once the palace of Bavaria’s Wittelsbach monarchs from 1508 until WWI. Today, it’s considered one of the best palace museums in all of Europe. Walk the expansive halls of the palace complex, admiring the antique statues and detailed portraits of regal figureheads.
Deutsches Museum
Founded in 1903, the Deutsches Museum is the largest museum of science and technology in the world. Whether you’re intrigued by the laws of physics or amazed by the cosmos, this is a fascinating place to visit. Our local experts note that English language guided tours are available with advance booking.
Old Picture Gallery
Visit this massive facility dedicated to displaying some of the world’s most impressive artistic masterpieces. The architecture of the gallery is modeled on the Renaissance palaces of Venice, making it equally as impressive as the artwork it contains. Stroll the halls of this grand gallery if you have some extra time in Munich.
BMW Welt and Museum
Lovers of this German-made automobile will be delighted to find this museum dedicated to all things BMW. Visitors will see an array of vehicles and motorcycles as well as demonstrations of BMW’s production methods. Tour the museum or vehicle plant and get an inside look into this luxury car brand.
Historic Sites
Munich is awash with historic sites to explore. From the centuries-old food markets, to the city’s iconic squares, there is a certain air of antiquity here. Delve into the past and discover Munich’s unique story.
Olympia Park
While it appears to be a small space, this complex once served as the stage for the 1972 Olympic Summer Games. Today, Olympia Park (or Olympiapark) draws crowds for concerts, festivals, and sporting events. We also recommend heading to the Olympic Tower (or Olympiaturm) which contains an observation platform where you’ll see a stunning panorama of Munich.
Marienplatz
In the Middle Ages, this public square served as a market place and site for Medieval festivals. Originally known as Schrannen, it was renamed Marienplatz as a way to ask the Virgin Mary to protect the town from a cholera epidemic. While you’re strolling through, be sure to keep an eye (and an ear) out for the Glockenspiel. Dating back to 1907, this quirky clock celebrates Munich’s history as motorized figurines dance, joust and twirl to the chimes. Note that this daily show occurs at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., and 5 p.m. (the 5 p.m. performance doesn’t occur from November-February).
Viktualienmarkt
Discover this sprawling market with historic roots and see why it’s a favorite for foodies. Established in 1807, Viktualienmarkt features over 140 food stalls offering fare like exotic olives, artisan cheeses and decadent truffles. We recommend checking out this haven for gourmet goods.
Dachau Memorial
Nearby Munich is this former concentration camp turned memorial site. Visit the grounds, walk the path of the prisoners, and marvel at the resilience of the human spirit. This is a powerful way to better comprehend Germany’s past.
Things to Do
Though delicious beer and locals donning Lederhosen (leather pants) and Dirndls (traditional dresses) are a draw for those visiting Munich, the city also features high art, cutting-edge cuisine and quaint landscapes. And, with several architectural gems still standing in its Aldstadt (Old Town), Munich has retained its historic landmarks while managing to be quite cosmopolitan. Take a stroll through a sprawling garden or enjoy some gluwhein (mulled wine) at a Christmas Market…there are so many pleasurable ways to enjoy Germany’s capital.
English Garden
Considered one of the largest urban parks in the world, this public green space is a pleasant way to relax and unwind after a day of touring. Head to the Chinesischen Turm (Chinese Tower), a signature landmark of the park that features an ornate Japanese Teahouse and massive beer garden. Explore this resplendent green oasis while in Munich.
Christmas Market
During the winter holiday season, Munich’s city squares are transformed by Christmas Markets. In Marienplatz, the public plaza is abuzz with advent music, street stalls selling ethnic foods, and an enormous decorated Christmas tree. In nearby Neuhauser Strasse, you’ll also find Germany’s largest manger market dedicated to presenting authentic nativity scenes.
Church of Our Lady
In Munich’s Old Town you’ll find this imposing Gothic cathedral. Visitors to the church are encouraged to climb the church’s south tower, where you’ll get unprecedented views of the city. This sacred space is said to be an iconic symbol standing out amongst Munich’s skyline.
Nymphenburg Palace
This stunning palace and sprawling garden are a show-stopping sight in the northwestern part of the Altstadt. Created initially as a villa for Bavarian Princess Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, this regal compound continued to grow in size and opulence once it was designated to be a summer residence for the rest of the royal family. Franz, Duke of Bavaria and head of the former ruling family, is still a resident in an apartment of this stately palace.