Welcome to Munich, a city where history and heritage meets modern charm, where grand palaces stand alongside lively beer gardens, and where literally every street corner has a story to tell. Munich is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. Whether you’re here for the first time or returning to discover more, these top attractions will make your visit truly unforgettable.
Munich is a city that welcomes you with open arms, rich traditions, and endless charm. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll find something to fall in love with.
At the heart of Munich, Marienplatz (St. Mary’s square) is the city’s lively main square, where history and tradition come alive. As you stand amidst stunning architecture, listen to the echoes of street musicians and soak in the city’s vibrant energy. The star attraction here is the Glockenspiel, a charming clock show that delights visitors daily at 11 AM and 12 PM with moving figurines reenacting medieval Bavarian history. The show lasts around 15 minutes, and its chimes create a magical atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Surrounding the square, you’ll find architectural gems like the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) and the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), both of which add to the square’s grandeur. But Marienplatz is more than just a photo opportunity. It’s the heartbeat of Munich, where street performers entertain passersby, and the festive spirit of the city shines through year-round. In winter, during Advent, the Munich Christmas Market fills the square with twinkling lights, the scent of roasted almonds, and the warmth of mulled wine. But also from spring to fall Marienplatz sees some festivities like the City Foundation Festival (Stadtgründungsfest) in mid-june, the traditional Dance of the Barrel Makers (Schäfflertanz) which only take place every 7 years or the yearly Fasching (carnival) festivities.
If you love food, Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s historic open-air market is the place to be. You can try Bavarian specialties like Weißwurst (white sausage) with sweet mustard, or sample artisan cheeses, fresh fruits, and local pastries. Over 100 stalls offer a colorful array of delicacies, from freshly baked pretzels to exotic spices and weird things like horse-sausages, making it a true paradise for foodies!
The market is not just about shopping; it’s about the experience. Join locals at the traditional beer garden, where strangers become friends over a pint of beer. If you visit on a special occasion, you might even witness a traditional Bavarian dance or music performance.
Pro tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest selections and a more relaxed atmosphere. And be sure to enjoy a refreshing Maß beer during summer at the beer garden around midday—locals and visitors alike gather here for a chat and a drink. Also do not miss to have a Leberkassemmel (meat loaf in a bun). This is for Bavarians what for New Yorkers the hot dog is. A hearty snack for lunch or even breakfast. But be aware, do never order it with ketchup even it’s available. Bavarians will judge you!
Did you know that Munich’s English Garden (Englischer Garten) is even bigger than Central Park in New York? This lush retreat offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re up for a relaxing picnic, a scenic bike ride, or a refreshing beer at the Chinesischer Turm beer garden, there’s something for everyone here. The Monopteros, a small classical greek temple atop a small hill, offers a fantastic panoramic view of the park and city skyline. When the weather is fine, this is a postcard picture.
If you love adventure, rent a paddleboat at the Kleinhesseloher See, a small lake surrounded by picturesque walking paths. The English Garden is also home to the one and only Eisbach Wave (Eisbachwelle), an artificial river wave, where you can watch surfers from Munich, but also from all ovber the world doing tricks in the middle of Munich.
One of the unique aspects of the English Garden in Munich is its FKK (Freikörperkultur) culture, or nudist tradition. Especially in the summer months, it’s completely normal to see sunbathers enjoying the park au naturel in specific areas. This open-minded attitude reflects Munich’s relaxed and accepting culture—so don’t be surprised if you stumble upon a mix of fully clothed picnickers and nude sun-seekers sharing the same green space in perfect harmony.
Step into a fairytale at Nymphenburg Palace, once the summer residence of Bavarian royalty. This Baroque masterpiece boasts opulent interiors, including the famous Hall of Mirrors and the beautifully adorned Stone Hall. Stroll through its magnificent halls adorned with intricate frescoes and marvel at the sprawling gardens, which are just as breathtaking as the palace itself.
The hidden park palaces, such as the Amalienburg hunting lodge or the Badenburg with its rococo elegance, are delightful surprises waiting to be explored.
The Nymphenburg Porcelain Manufactory, located within the palace complex, produces some of the finest hand-painted porcelain in the world. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Marstallmuseum, home to an exquisite collection of royal carriages and sleighs, giving a glimpse into the luxurious transport of Bavarian kings.
But the by locals and visitors most enjoyed part of Nymphernburg Palace is its huge park with hundreds of walking paths, hidden lakes, forests, open fields and small creeks.
Best time to visit: Spring and summer, when the gardens are in full bloom and perfect for a leisurely walk. In winter, the frozen canals create a picturesque view.
Built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, Olympiapark remains one of Munich’s most iconic landmarks. The park is an architectural marvel, with its glass canopies of the Olympic Stadium and overall futuristic design standing as a testament to innovation. Today, it’s a hub for sports, concerts, and festivals. You can climb the Olympic Tower for breathtaking views over the city and even catch a glimpse of the Alps on a clear day.
For adventure seekers, the roof climb and zipline experience over the Olympic Stadium offers an adrenaline rush with spectacular views. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, take a leisurely walk around the Olympic Lake, where locals come to picnic and unwind. Throughout the year, Olympiapark hosts major events, including open-air concerts and winter ice skating, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening.
Car lovers, this one’s for you! At the BMW Museum and BMW Welt, you’ll dive into the history of this world-renowned brand and its sister brands MINI and RollsRoyce, see futuristic car designs, and even take a guided tour of the factory. Interactive exhibitions let you experience BMW’s technological innovations up close, and the museum showcases legendary models from vintage classics to modern electric vehicles.
If you’re lucky, you might witness a brand-new BMW being delivered to its owner in style! Plus, BMW Welt often features exclusive concept cars that aren’t available anywhere else.
No visit to Munich is complete without stepping into the legendary Hofbräuhaus, the world-famous beer hall that has been serving up Bavarian hospitality for over 400 years. Nestled in the heart of the city, just a short walk from Marienplatz, this historic institution is more than just a place to grab a beer—it’s a cultural experience that immerses visitors in the spirit of Bavaria.
Step inside, and you’ll immediately be greeted by the sounds of traditional Bavarian music, the clinking of beer steins, the warm hum of cheerful conversations and the smell of hearty food. The main hall, with its long wooden tables and high vaulted ceilings, is often filled with locals dressed in Lederhosen and Dirndls, adding to the authentic charm of the experience.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself singing along to an oompah band or sharing a toast with complete strangers—at Hofbräuhaus, everyone is part of the celebration.
Whether you’re a beer lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a taste of Bavarian culture, the Hofbräuhaus is an unmissable stop in Munich. It’s a place where tradition meets celebration, where every visitor is welcomed with open arms, and where every sip tells a story.