August 3, 2024
Munich, the capital of Bavaria in Germany, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. Here are some popular places to visit in Munich along with their historical relevance and reasons for their popularity:
1. Marienplatz and the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
Marienplatz is the heart of Munich, known for its stunning architecture and the Glockenspiel, which performs daily. The square has been Munich's main square since 1158 and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the New Town Hall, which was completed in 1908.
2. Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)
This grand Baroque palace with beautiful gardens is a stunning example of royal architecture and landscaping. Built in 1675, it was the main summer residence for the rulers of Bavaria.
3. English Garden (Englischer Garten)
One of the largest urban parks in the world, it offers vast green spaces, a Japanese tea house, and a popular beer garden at the Chinese Tower. Created in 1789, it has been a recreational haven for centuries.
4. Hofbräuhaus
This iconic beer hall is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional Bavarian music, and hearty cuisine. Founded in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, it has been a central part of Munich's beer culture.
5. Viktualienmarkt
A vibrant daily market offering a wide variety of fresh food, flowers, and local delicacies. Established in 1807, it has grown from a simple farmers' market to a bustling city hub.
6. Munich Residenz
The former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, showcasing luxurious rooms and an impressive collection of art and treasures. The largest city palace in Germany, with origins dating back to 1385.
7. Deutsches Museum
The world's largest museum of science and technology, with fascinating exhibits ranging from early scientific instruments to space exploration. Founded in 1903, it has played a significant role in educating the public about scientific advancements.
8. Allianz Arena
This futuristic stadium is home to FC Bayern Munich and known for its unique illuminated exterior. Opened in 2005, it represents modern engineering and design in sports architecture.
9. Olympiapark
Built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, it offers sports facilities, a lake, and the striking Olympic Tower with panoramic views of the city. The site of the 1972 Olympics, marked by both triumph and tragedy.
10. BMW Museum and BMW Welt
These attractions celebrate the history, present, and future of BMW cars and motorcycles, with interactive exhibits and the chance to see the latest models. BMW, founded in Munich in 1916, has a storied history in automotive innovation.
These places offer a blend of Munich's rich history, cultural significance, and modern attractions, making it a fascinating city to explore.
Nearby Countries and Cities for Day Trips from Munich you may want to go to or these could be your next stop, continuation of your Europe tour
Austria
1. Salzburg
About 1.5 hours by train. Birthplace of Mozart, beautiful Baroque architecture, and the film site of the iconic movie, "The Sound of Music."
Highlights: Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and Mozart's Birthplace.
2. Innsbruck
About 2 hours by train. Surrounded by the Alps, it's known for its winter sports and Imperial history.
Highlights: The Golden Roof, Innsbruck Cathedral, and the Bergisel Ski Jump.
Germany
3. Neuschwanstein Castle
About 2 hours by train and bus. The fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Highlights: Guided tours of the castle, hiking trails, and nearby Hohenschwangau Castle.
4. Nuremberg
About 1 hour by train. Rich in medieval architecture and history, especially linked to WWII.
Highlights: Nuremberg Castle, the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and the old town.
5. Augsburg
About 30 minutes by train. One of Germany's oldest cities with a rich Roman history.
Highlights: Augsburg Cathedral, Fuggerei (the world's oldest social housing complex), and the Renaissance-style Town Hall.
6. Regensburg
About 1.5 hours by train. Why Visit: Well-preserved medieval city center and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights: Regensburg Cathedral, Stone Bridge, and the old town.
7. Garmisch-Partenkirchen
About 1.5 hours by train. Why Visit: Popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Highlights: Zugspitze (Germany's highest peak), Partnach Gorge, and the Olympic Ski Stadium.
Switzerland
8. Zurich
About 4 hours by train. A major financial hub with a charming old town and beautiful lake.
Highlights: Lake Zurich, Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, and the Swiss National Museum.
Liechtenstein
9. Vaduz
About 2.5 hours by train and bus. The capital city of Liechtenstein, known for its modern art and picturesque setting.
Highlights: Vaduz Castle, Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, and the Cathedral of St. Florin.
These nearby destinations offer a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making them ideal for day trips from Munich.
1. Marienplatz and the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
Marienplatz is the heart of Munich, known for its stunning architecture and the Glockenspiel, which performs daily. The square has been Munich's main square since 1158 and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the New Town Hall, which was completed in 1908.
2. Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)
This grand Baroque palace with beautiful gardens is a stunning example of royal architecture and landscaping. Built in 1675, it was the main summer residence for the rulers of Bavaria.
3. English Garden (Englischer Garten)
One of the largest urban parks in the world, it offers vast green spaces, a Japanese tea house, and a popular beer garden at the Chinese Tower. Created in 1789, it has been a recreational haven for centuries.
4. Hofbräuhaus
This iconic beer hall is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional Bavarian music, and hearty cuisine. Founded in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, it has been a central part of Munich's beer culture.
5. Viktualienmarkt
A vibrant daily market offering a wide variety of fresh food, flowers, and local delicacies. Established in 1807, it has grown from a simple farmers' market to a bustling city hub.
6. Munich Residenz
The former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, showcasing luxurious rooms and an impressive collection of art and treasures. The largest city palace in Germany, with origins dating back to 1385.
7. Deutsches Museum
The world's largest museum of science and technology, with fascinating exhibits ranging from early scientific instruments to space exploration. Founded in 1903, it has played a significant role in educating the public about scientific advancements.
8. Allianz Arena
This futuristic stadium is home to FC Bayern Munich and known for its unique illuminated exterior. Opened in 2005, it represents modern engineering and design in sports architecture.
9. Olympiapark
Built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, it offers sports facilities, a lake, and the striking Olympic Tower with panoramic views of the city. The site of the 1972 Olympics, marked by both triumph and tragedy.
10. BMW Museum and BMW Welt
These attractions celebrate the history, present, and future of BMW cars and motorcycles, with interactive exhibits and the chance to see the latest models. BMW, founded in Munich in 1916, has a storied history in automotive innovation.
These places offer a blend of Munich's rich history, cultural significance, and modern attractions, making it a fascinating city to explore.
Nearby Countries and Cities for Day Trips from Munich you may want to go to or these could be your next stop, continuation of your Europe tour
Austria
1. Salzburg
About 1.5 hours by train. Birthplace of Mozart, beautiful Baroque architecture, and the film site of the iconic movie, "The Sound of Music."
Highlights: Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and Mozart's Birthplace.
2. Innsbruck
About 2 hours by train. Surrounded by the Alps, it's known for its winter sports and Imperial history.
Highlights: The Golden Roof, Innsbruck Cathedral, and the Bergisel Ski Jump.
Germany
3. Neuschwanstein Castle
About 2 hours by train and bus. The fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Highlights: Guided tours of the castle, hiking trails, and nearby Hohenschwangau Castle.
4. Nuremberg
About 1 hour by train. Rich in medieval architecture and history, especially linked to WWII.
Highlights: Nuremberg Castle, the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and the old town.
5. Augsburg
About 30 minutes by train. One of Germany's oldest cities with a rich Roman history.
Highlights: Augsburg Cathedral, Fuggerei (the world's oldest social housing complex), and the Renaissance-style Town Hall.
6. Regensburg
About 1.5 hours by train. Why Visit: Well-preserved medieval city center and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights: Regensburg Cathedral, Stone Bridge, and the old town.
7. Garmisch-Partenkirchen
About 1.5 hours by train. Why Visit: Popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.
Highlights: Zugspitze (Germany's highest peak), Partnach Gorge, and the Olympic Ski Stadium.
Switzerland
8. Zurich
About 4 hours by train. A major financial hub with a charming old town and beautiful lake.
Highlights: Lake Zurich, Bahnhofstrasse shopping street, and the Swiss National Museum.
Liechtenstein
9. Vaduz
About 2.5 hours by train and bus. The capital city of Liechtenstein, known for its modern art and picturesque setting.
Highlights: Vaduz Castle, Kunstmuseum Liechtenstein, and the Cathedral of St. Florin.
These nearby destinations offer a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making them ideal for day trips from Munich.
Transportation System in Munich
Munich boasts an efficient and comprehensive public transportation system, making it easy for tourists to navigate the city and explore its many attractions. Here's an overview of the main transportation options:
1. U-Bahn (Underground Metro)
The U-Bahn is Munich's underground metro system, consisting of 8 lines (U1 to U8) covering 100 stations. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines in stations. Day passes and group tickets are available for convenience.
Operation Hours: Approximately 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM on weekdays and all night on weekends.
2. S-Bahn (Suburban Trains)
The S-Bahn connects the city center with the suburbs and nearby towns. It has 8 lines (S1 to S8) and serves Munich Airport. Tickets are integrated with the U-Bahn, trams, and buses, allowing seamless transfers.
Operation Hours: Approximately 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM, with some lines operating less frequently outside peak hours.
3. Trams
Munich's tram network includes 13 daytime lines and 4 night lines, offering extensive coverage of the city. Tickets can be purchased on board or at vending machines near tram stops.
Operation Hours: Daytime trams run from early morning until around midnight, while night trams operate from midnight to 4:00 AM.
4. Buses
Buses complement the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram networks, covering areas not served by rail. Tickets can be bought on board or at vending machines.
Operation Hours: Varies by route, but most run from early morning to late evening, with some night buses available.
5. Regional Trains
For travel to nearby cities and towns, regional trains operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB) are a convenient option. Tickets can be purchased online, at stations, or through the DB Navigator app.
Operation Hours: Varies by route, with frequent services during the day.
6. Tickets and Passes
Single Tickets: Valid for a single journey within a specific fare zone.
Day Passes: Unlimited travel for a day within the selected zones (Inner, Munich XXL, Outer, Entire Network).
Group Tickets: Day passes for up to 5 people traveling together.
CityTourCard: Includes unlimited travel and discounts at various attractions.
Munich Card: Similar to CityTourCard but with additional discounts and options.
7. Bicycles
Munich is a bike-friendly city with numerous dedicated bike lanes and rental options.
Bike Rentals: Available from various providers, including Call a Bike and Donkey Republic.
Bike Sharing: MVG Rad offers bike-sharing services throughout the city.
8. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis: Available at taxi stands or can be hailed on the street. Apps like Free Now can be used to book taxis.
Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Munich.
9. Car Rentals
Several car rental companies operate in Munich, with pick-up locations at the airport and major train stations.
Options: Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and others.
10. Airport Transfers
S-Bahn: S1 and S8 lines connect Munich Airport to the city center in about 40 minutes.
Lufthansa Express Bus: Offers direct service between the airport and Munich Central Station.
Taxis: Readily available at the airport, with a fixed fare to the city center.
Munich's public transportation is known for its punctuality, cleanliness, and safety, making it a reliable option for tourists exploring the city.
Munich boasts an efficient and comprehensive public transportation system, making it easy for tourists to navigate the city and explore its many attractions. Here's an overview of the main transportation options:
1. U-Bahn (Underground Metro)
The U-Bahn is Munich's underground metro system, consisting of 8 lines (U1 to U8) covering 100 stations. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines in stations. Day passes and group tickets are available for convenience.
Operation Hours: Approximately 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM on weekdays and all night on weekends.
2. S-Bahn (Suburban Trains)
The S-Bahn connects the city center with the suburbs and nearby towns. It has 8 lines (S1 to S8) and serves Munich Airport. Tickets are integrated with the U-Bahn, trams, and buses, allowing seamless transfers.
Operation Hours: Approximately 4:00 AM to 1:00 AM, with some lines operating less frequently outside peak hours.
3. Trams
Munich's tram network includes 13 daytime lines and 4 night lines, offering extensive coverage of the city. Tickets can be purchased on board or at vending machines near tram stops.
Operation Hours: Daytime trams run from early morning until around midnight, while night trams operate from midnight to 4:00 AM.
4. Buses
Buses complement the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram networks, covering areas not served by rail. Tickets can be bought on board or at vending machines.
Operation Hours: Varies by route, but most run from early morning to late evening, with some night buses available.
5. Regional Trains
For travel to nearby cities and towns, regional trains operated by Deutsche Bahn (DB) are a convenient option. Tickets can be purchased online, at stations, or through the DB Navigator app.
Operation Hours: Varies by route, with frequent services during the day.
6. Tickets and Passes
Single Tickets: Valid for a single journey within a specific fare zone.
Day Passes: Unlimited travel for a day within the selected zones (Inner, Munich XXL, Outer, Entire Network).
Group Tickets: Day passes for up to 5 people traveling together.
CityTourCard: Includes unlimited travel and discounts at various attractions.
Munich Card: Similar to CityTourCard but with additional discounts and options.
7. Bicycles
Munich is a bike-friendly city with numerous dedicated bike lanes and rental options.
Bike Rentals: Available from various providers, including Call a Bike and Donkey Republic.
Bike Sharing: MVG Rad offers bike-sharing services throughout the city.
8. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
Taxis: Available at taxi stands or can be hailed on the street. Apps like Free Now can be used to book taxis.
Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber and Lyft are available in Munich.
9. Car Rentals
Several car rental companies operate in Munich, with pick-up locations at the airport and major train stations.
Options: Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and others.
10. Airport Transfers
S-Bahn: S1 and S8 lines connect Munich Airport to the city center in about 40 minutes.
Lufthansa Express Bus: Offers direct service between the airport and Munich Central Station.
Taxis: Readily available at the airport, with a fixed fare to the city center.
Munich's public transportation is known for its punctuality, cleanliness, and safety, making it a reliable option for tourists exploring the city.
The bustling Marienplatz in Munich is remarkably tranquil early in the morning. During our trip to Europe in 2022, we arrived in Munich, Germany, on June 2nd at 6 a.m. and were scheduled to fly to Lisbon, Portugal, at 1:30 p.m. that same day, though we encountered a one-hour delay (as often happens in Europe). We chose Lufthansa for two reasons: to redeem our accumulated miles and to have a few hours' layover in Munich. It had been a decade since we last visited Munich with our girls.
The train ride from either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 to the city center takes about an hour. It was not suggestable though, because the airport was so busy and we might miss our flight. Notwithstanding, we still trained to the city.
We cleared thru immigration our entry to the Schengen area in Munich though, we collected our luggage in Lisbon, our final destination. We only have the hand luggage while walking around the city of Munich.
The train ride from either Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 to the city center takes about an hour. It was not suggestable though, because the airport was so busy and we might miss our flight. Notwithstanding, we still trained to the city.
We cleared thru immigration our entry to the Schengen area in Munich though, we collected our luggage in Lisbon, our final destination. We only have the hand luggage while walking around the city of Munich.
The façade of Munich's New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) features a series of small sculptures that depict historical events from the 16th century. These sculptures are part of the Glockenspiel, a famous clock tower feature. The Glockenspiel performs a reenactment of two key events: the wedding procession of Duke Wilhelm V in 1568 and the traditional "Coopers' Dance," celebrating the city's guilds. The figures, intricately carved and animated, create a lively historical narrative and are a major attraction, with the show taking place daily at certain times.
Here’s a serene view of Munich at around 8 in the morning. — the streets next to Marienplatz are remarkably empty and quiet, offering a peaceful start to the day. Even though this area is usually bustling with activity, the early morning calm provides a rare and tranquil glimpse of the city. Nearby, the subway station stands ready to whisk commuters away, but for now, the surroundings are undisturbed and still, making it a perfect moment to capture the city's early-morning charm. We have at most 3 hours to explore the city with very few people to avoid while taking pictures
The Theatine Church (Theatinerkirche) is a prominent Baroque church located in Munich, Germany. Built between 1663 and 1690, it was commissioned by Elector Ferdinand Maria to celebrate the birth of his heir. Designed by Italian architect Agostino Barelli, the church features a striking yellow facade, a grand interior with ornate decorations, and a distinctive dome. The Theatine Church is known for its elegant architecture, including intricate stuccowork and frescoes, making it a key example of Baroque art in Munich. It remains an important religious and historical site in the city.
The Munich Residenz, the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, is a grand architectural complex located in the heart of Munich. Visitors can enter the Residenz through its magnificent courtyard, which is accessible from Odeonsplatz, directly across from the Theatine Church. The palace, which has evolved over centuries since its initial construction in the 14th century, showcases a blend of Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles. The Munich Residenz is renowned for its opulent interiors, extensive art collections, and historical significance as the seat of Bavarian rulers.
The scene of the fatal gun battle during the failed coup d'état by the Nazi Party in 1923 took place at Odeonsplatz in Munich. On November 9, 1923, Adolf Hitler and his followers attempted a coup known as the Beer Hall Putsch. Their march through Munich ended at Odeonsplatz, where they clashed with police forces. The confrontation resulted in a violent exchange of gunfire, leading to several deaths among Hitler's supporters. This pivotal moment marked a significant failure for the Nazis, but it also drew national attention and set the stage for their future rise to power.
Odeonsplatz or Odeons square is surrounded by significant buildings, including the Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals' Hall), which commemorates the Bavarian Army, and the Munich Residence, the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs. It is also home to the Theatinerkirche (Theatine Church), a stunning example of Italian Baroque architecture, and the Hofgarten (Court Garden), a beautiful park that offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The square is well-connected by Munich's public transportation system, including U-Bahn (subway) lines, making it easily accessible.
Odeonsplatz continues to be a site for various public events, demonstrations, and cultural celebrations, reflecting its ongoing role in the city's public life.
Odeonsplatz or Odeons square is surrounded by significant buildings, including the Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals' Hall), which commemorates the Bavarian Army, and the Munich Residence, the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs. It is also home to the Theatinerkirche (Theatine Church), a stunning example of Italian Baroque architecture, and the Hofgarten (Court Garden), a beautiful park that offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. The square is well-connected by Munich's public transportation system, including U-Bahn (subway) lines, making it easily accessible.
Odeonsplatz continues to be a site for various public events, demonstrations, and cultural celebrations, reflecting its ongoing role in the city's public life.
The Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals' Hall) in Munich is a significant historical and architectural landmark, and it played a notable role during the events surrounding the coup d'état attempt known as the Beer Hall Putsch. Latter, also knows as Munich Putsch, was an attempted coup d'état led by Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party on November 8-9, 1923. The coup began with a march from the Bürgerbräukeller, a beer hall where Hitler and his followers gathered, through the streets of Munich. The march was intended to seize control of the city and overthrow the Weimar Republic. The march ended in a confrontation with police forces at the Feldherrnhalle. A violent clash occurred here, resulting in the deaths of several of Hitler’s followers and the arrest of many participants, including Hitler himself.
The Feldherrnhalle is not only an architectural landmark but also a site deeply embedded in the history of 20th-century Germany, representing both the political turmoil of the Weimar Republic era and the rise of the Nazi regime.
The Feldherrnhalle is not only an architectural landmark but also a site deeply embedded in the history of 20th-century Germany, representing both the political turmoil of the Weimar Republic era and the rise of the Nazi regime.
The English Garden (Englischer Garten) in Munich is one of the largest urban parks in the world, spanning approximately 3.7 square kilometers. Designed in the 18th century by Sir Benjamin Thompson, it features picturesque landscapes, serene waterways, and expansive green spaces. The park is a popular spot for both relaxation and recreation, offering walking paths, cycling routes, and areas for picnicking. Key attractions include the Chinese Tower, a traditional beer garden, and the serene lake with rowing boats. The English Garden is a beloved retreat that provides a natural escape within the bustling city of Munich.
The Cathedral of Our Dear Lady, known as rauenkirche, is a landmark in Munich, Germany. Construction began in the 12th century and was completed in the 16th century with the addition of its iconic domes. The church is renowned for its distinctive twin towers with onion-shaped domes, which are a defining feature of Munich's skyline. The Frauenkirche is a significant Gothic structure and serves as the mother church of the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising. Its interior is known for its spacious nave, historic artworks, and the famous "Devil's Footprint" legend associated with one of its pillars.
Inside the Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Frauenkirche) in Munich, visitors are greeted by a grand Gothic interior characterized by its vast, open nave and high vaulted ceilings. The cathedral's interior features large, ornate stained glass windows that bathe the space in colorful light. Notable elements include the impressive baroque altar, the intricately carved choir stalls, and the famous "Devil's Footprint," a mysterious mark on the floor with a legend attached. The cathedral also houses the tombs of several Bavarian dukes and is renowned for its serene and expansive atmosphere, making it a significant religious and historical site.
St. Peter's Church, known locally as Peterskirche, is Munich's oldest church, dating back to the 12th century. Located near Marienplatz, it features a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles due to various renovations over the centuries. The church's interior is adorned with stunning frescoes, altars, and sculptures.
One of its main attractions is the tower, affectionately called "Alter Peter" (Old Peter). Visitors who climb the 299 steps to the top are rewarded with a panoramic view of Munich's skyline, including landmarks like the Frauenkirche, the New Town Hall, and, on clear days, the distant Alps. This vantage point is a favorite spot for tourists to capture breathtaking photographs of the city. We took the stairs during our visit in June 2013.
One of its main attractions is the tower, affectionately called "Alter Peter" (Old Peter). Visitors who climb the 299 steps to the top are rewarded with a panoramic view of Munich's skyline, including landmarks like the Frauenkirche, the New Town Hall, and, on clear days, the distant Alps. This vantage point is a favorite spot for tourists to capture breathtaking photographs of the city. We took the stairs during our visit in June 2013.
Carlsplatz, also known as Stachus, is a prominent square in Munich located near the city's central train station. Historically, it served as a major city gate and a bustling marketplace. Today, Carlsplatz is a vibrant urban area featuring a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Carlsplatz is well-known for its historic Karlstor gate, which stands as a reminder of Munich's medieval past.
Carlsplatz is also popular for its iconic fountain, It features a series of jets that create an ever-changing pattern of water columns, often synchronized with light effects. The fountain serves as both a visual centerpiece and a popular gathering spot, offering a refreshing and interactive experience for visitors and locals alike. The square is central hub for both locals and tourists, providing easy access to various attractions and services.
These photos were taken during Europe tour in 2013. We visited Munich for a day trip from Salzburg.
These photos were taken during Europe tour in 2013. We visited Munich for a day trip from Salzburg.
Updated on September 27, 2024
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Thank you for sharing. This is what I am looking for. We are visiting relatives in Augsburg next month