Facts
Name of the city: Munich (German: München)
Location: Bavaria, South of Germany
Population: 1,566,000
Next international Airport: Munich Airport (MUC)
Next Airport flying to Asia: Munich Airport (MUC)
Munich can be described in three words: cultural heritage, remarkable architecture and breathtaking natural landscapes. Munich is the capital of Bavaria and located in the south of Germany. Being the largest city in Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany it is absolutely worth a visit. The largest city in Germany is Berlin, followed by Hamburg. I really enjoy visiting Munich as it combines modernity and tradition in a unique way. Munich is one of Germany’s economic hotspots, for example the companies BMW and Siemens have their headquarter in the city. The inhabitants are considered with an elegant lifestyle and relaxed attitude.
For many, the city is linked to traditional Bavarian cultures such as the famous beer festival Oktoberfest, which takes place every year at the end of September.
For me the uniqueness of Munich is the combination of the beautiful relaxed city with amazing monuments and the proximity to the mountains, lakes and beautiful nature. See this page to explore Munich off the beaten path.
Munich accommodations
The city has a wide range of accommodations. The summer period is the high season to visit Munich. However, two major peak times are the autumn with the world-famous beer festival Oktoberfest and the winter with wonderful Christmas markets. As Munich offers an excellent public transportation network, you can easily explore the city even if you choose an accommodation further away from the city center.
If you are not price sensitive, I recommend choosing an accommodation around Altstadt. You can visit the most important attractions by a short walk. In the north of the central train station, the neighbourhood Maxvorstadt is located. It is home to many art museums. The area Ludwigvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is home to many hostels and budget friendly hotels. You find nice coffee shops, independent boutiques, as well as the Oktoberfest Theresienwiese.
Hyperion Hotel München | 8.6 | €€€
Hotel Bayerischer Hof | 8.2 | €€€
Arthotel Munich | 8.2 | €€
Hampton By Hilton Munich City West | 7.8 | €€
Super 8 by Wyndham Munich City North | 8.1 | €
The hotel Bayrischer Hof has a long history. In 1839, King Ludwig I expressed his desire to have a first-class hotel. The Bayrischer Hof was opened on October 15, 1841. Since the time, the hotel became a leading luxury institution in Germany.
Munich Tour Summary
Tour tip: Do not miss the famous historic carillon at the New City Hall every day at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm
Food option: Sit in one of the beer gardens and enjoy traditional Bavarian food with a cold beer
Off the beaten path: Do you want to explore more sights of Munich? I have explored the amazing attractions off the beaten path
Romantic tour: Feel like in a fairytale while visiting the beautiful variety of castles in and around Munich
Attractions in Munich
Marienplatz – heart and soul of the city
The Marienplatz is a must see in Munich. Every time I am in Munich, I try to see the Marienplatz as it has many architectural sights.
At the Marienplatz you can see different sights. The New City Hall dominates the square and is home to the famous historic carillon. Just in front, you will the Fountain called Fish Fountain. It is a meeting point for locals.
New City Hall with its historic carillon
The New City Hall is a marvelous gothic building, completed in 1905. It is a functional municipal and administrative office. The Mayer and the Council operate from this place.
The balcony of the New City Hall is well known as the FC Bayern soccer stars are celebrating their success there. For example, in 2013, the team celebrated the “treble”, meaning they have won the Champions League, the German cup and the German League. For more information to FC Bayern Munich, please see the blog post Munich off the beaten paths.
The carillon rings and along with it, puppets are dancing to the old Bavarian music. During the carillon you can see important scenes from Munich’s history. The top layer shows the marriage of Wilhelm V and Renate von Lothringen, which took place in 1568. In the lower layer you can see the Schäfflertanz, meaning the dance of the coopers. The population was cheered up by the coopers after a plague epidemic.
The spectacle of the carillon takes place every day at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm, as well as from March to October at 5:00 pm.
On top of the tower, a statue of the Münchner Kindly is located.
aioutravel tip:
Do not forget to see the courtyard of the New City Hall. You can enjoy some Bavarian delicasies of Rathskeller or just enjoy the spectacular facades.
Fish fountain
The history of the Fish Fountain dates back to the Middle Ages. The current version is a meeting point for locals.
Viktualienmarkt – former farmer market
In the past, the Viktualienmarkt was a farmer market. The name of the market has its origin in the Late Latin word for food. Strolling around the area you can enjoy Bavarian food in Munich’s most central beer garden. In addition, around 100 market stalls offer delicate, local food, gifts and souvenirs. Just walk along and let you inspire of the delicious food options.
The Maypole stands in the center of the Viktualienmarkt. Many villages in Bavaria have one. They are usually in white and blue color and showing images of the historic life. The first Maypole at Viktualienmarkt was donated in May 1962 by Munich’s breweries. Since that, it has been replaced several times.
Church of Our Dear Lady – landmark with two towers
The Church of our Dear Lady is designed in Gothic-style. It is characterized by two towers, which are approx. 99 meters high. They are visible throughout the city. I really like the green domes on top of the towers. The Church could accommodate 20,000 standing people, which was larger than the entire population of Munich in the 15th century.
The Munich population is proud of this remarkable landmark. After a referendum in 2004, the Church will stay one of the tallest buildings in the city.
A legend says that the devil left a footprint at the entrance, and you can feel the devils wind in the streets around the church.
Even though you can access the south tower as a vantage point, I prefer the viewing platform at St. Peter Church. For the reason that you can see the Church of Our Dear Lady from top. Read more about the St. Peter Church viewing platform in the report Munich off the beaten paths.
How to get there?
The Church of our Dear Lady is located close to Marienplatz. You will reach the Church after a short walk.
Hofbräuhaus – beer culture at its best
Munich Hofbräuhaus is the place to be if you like fresh beer, traditional music and history. The brewery is located at this place since 1608. Today, up to 35,000 visitors stop by the Hofbräuhaus each day. Enjoy the diverse beer, and food options as well as the historical place with traditional décor. You are in good company – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Lenin and his wife as well as Empress Elisabeth of Austria (known as Sisi) stopped by as well.
Check out this page, to see the opening hours and to reserve a table. This may be beneficial if you are travelling with a big group.
aioutravel tip:
In German beergardens it is common to share a table with other people. Do not hesitate to sit together with others. The Hofbräuhaus has some very frequent visitors. They do store their personal beer tankard in the back of the Hofbräuhaus.
How to get there?
The Hofbräuhaus is located close to Marienplatz. You will reach it after a short walk.
Odeonsplatz – Italian spirit in Munich
Standing on Odeonsplatz, you will understand why Munich is known as Italy’s most northern city. The art loving King Ludwig I arranged beautiful landmarks. The square was named after the Odeon concert hall. The hall was built by King Ludwig I in the early 19th century.
Feldherrnhalle
Feldherrnhalle is a loggia, which was constructed in 1840s to honor the Bavarian army. It was inspired by the Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence. Climb up the steps and enjoy the view to the Odeonsplatz. Next to the staircase you will recognize two large lions and inside the loggia bronze statues of military leaders.
Theatine Church
Sitting on the steps of Feldherrnhalle and turning to the left, you see the Theatine Church with its remarkable bright yellow façade. The church was built in the late 18th century. Have a look inside the church, it is richly decorated with stucco work and the design is mainly white. It was built to celebrate the birth of Prince Max Emanuel.
Court Garden
The Court Garden is a beautiful peaceful place to escape from the bustling city. It is located just next to Odeonsplatz. You enter the park trough the Court Garden Gate. Inside the Garden you will see the beautiful Diana Temple. In the summertime the Court Garden is a meeting point for both, locals and tourists. In the park locals are doing sports and playing music.
aioutravel tip:
Do you want to become a local during your stay? Go for a walk or run through Court Garden and Englischer Garden. The steps at the Court Garden are good for an exercise, as the distance between the steps is equal and the steps are wide.
How to get there?
Metro lines U3, U4, U5 and U6 or public transportation bus no. 100 to Odeonsplatz stop.
Munich Residenz
The Munich Residenz is located just next to Odeonsplatz. It is Germany’s largest inner-city palace. The former seat of Bavarian royalty is surrounded by the Court Garden. The Wittelsbach family ruled Bavaria from the 11th century onwards and used the palace for over 400 years as their official residence.
I highly recommend visiting the Residenz also inside. The Antiquarium is a magnificent room inside the Residenz. It was used as an exhibition hall for sculptures and later as a banquet hall for dinners.
The Treasury of the Munich Residenz is a collection of jewels of more than 1,000 years. During your stay you can see royal insignia and jewel-incrusted swords. My personal highlight was to see the oldest surviving royal crown.
Take a free audio guide, which is available in Chinese language and look around the inside of the Residenz. I have booked the ticket for both, the Residenz and the Treasury. Both are absolutely worth a visit. Check out detailed opening hours on this page.
aioutravel tip:
Would you like to be lucky? In front of the Munich Residenz you can see four lions. Touch the nose of each and you will be lucky. The background of this story is that a student made fun of the King’s new mistress. The King was angry and wanted to punish the student. However, as the student report of his own accord that he has made the fun the King Ludwig I pardoned him. The student left the Munich Residenz holding in one hand a bag full of money and with the other hand he held onto the muzzle of the lion’s nose. The people believed that if you stroke the lion’s muzzle you will be lucky and may bring home a bag full of money. 🙂
Opening hours:
Residence Museum and Treasury:
| April to October 15th: | October 16th to March: |
| daily 9:00 am – 6:00 pm | daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm |
Admission:
The admission for the combination ticket of Residence Museum and Treasury costs EUR 14.00 (reduced EUR 12.00) (as of August 2022). If you prefer a single ticket to the Residence Museum or Treasury only, it costs EUR 9.00 EUR (reduced EUR 8.00) (as of August 2022).
How to get there?
Metro lines U3, U4, U5 and U6 or public transportation bus no. 100 to Odeonsplatz stop. Are you visiting Marienplatz before? You can easily walk to the Munich Residenz.
Old Pinakothek – world class gallery
The Old Pinakothek (Alte Pinakothek) offers outstanding collections of European paintings. In 19 halls and 47 cabinets you will find more than 700 paintings. My highlights of the gallery are paintings from Albrecht Dürer and Albrecht Altdorfer. However, you can see other fantastic paintings e.g. from Botticelli, Titian, Rubens or Da Vinci. See more detailed information of Old Pinakothek on their website.
Please note that the New Pinakothek (Neue Pinakothek) is currently under renovation. Therefore, some of its paintings are presented in Old Pinakothek as well.
aioutravel tip:
Every Sunday the museum’s admission is reduced to EUR 1.00 only!
Opening hours:
| Tuesday to Wednesday: | Thursday to Sunday: |
| 10:00 am – 8:30 pm | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm |
Admission:
Regular ticket costs EUR 7.00 (reduced ticket EUR 5.00) (as of August 2022)
Special Sunday admission: EUR 1.00 (as of August 2022)
How to get there?
Take metro line U2 to Königsplatz stop or Theresienstrasse stop, U3 / U6 to Odeonsplatz or Universität stop, or U4 / U5 to Odeonsplatz stop.
Pinakothek der Monderne – Modern Art Collection
Pinakothek der Monderne is home to art that came after 1900. The institute is one of worlds leading ones, with its stock of more than 20,000 art works. Besides paintings, it offers sculpture, new media and photography works.
When you are walking from Old Pinakothek to the Modern Art Collection you pass by the Futuro House, that looks like a UFO to me. Originally, the house was planned as a ski lodge and should withstand extreme temperature fluctuations. After the year 2022, the house will be moved and built in another place.
Opening hours:
| Daily: | Thursday: |
| 10:00 am – 6:00 pm | 10:00 am – 8:00 pm |
Admission:
Regular ticket costs EUR 10.00 (reduced ticket EUR 7.00) (as of August 2022).
Special Sunday admission: EUR 1.00 (as of August 2022).
How to get there?
The modern art collection is just next to Old Pinakothek. Take metro line U2 to Königsplatz stop or Theresienstrasse stop, U3 / U6 to Odeonsplatz or Universität stop, or U4 / U5 to Odeonsplatz stop.
Königsplatz – ancient world in the middle of the city
The dream of King Ludwig I was to turn Munich into the Athens on the Isar River. Standing on Königsplatz you feel like in ancient times. With the green spaces and stone steps, it is a popular place for locals to meet and to do sunbathing. In the summer in the area open air concerts and cinema events are hosted.
Around Königsplatz you find major sights such as Propyläen, Glyptothek and National Collection of Antiques. The Glyptothek museum is described below in more detail.
How to get there?
Take metro line U2 to Königsplatz stop.
Glyptothek museum – only museum worldwide solely dedicated to ancient sculpture
Entering the Glyptothek museum you may feel like in ancient times. The façade of the museum remembers me of ancient Rome or Greece. Just on Königsplatz you can see the Glyptothek museum home of stone projections, Greek and Roman statues with some world-famous originals. It is Munich’s oldest museum and also worldwide the only museum, which is solely dedicated to ancient sculptures. See more details about the historic museum on this page.
Opening hours:
| Tuesday to Wednesday: | Friday to Sunday: | Thursday: | October 24th – 31st, 2022: |
| 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | closed |
Admission:
Regular ticket costs EUR 6.00 (reduced ticket EUR 4.00) (as of August 2022)
How to get there?
Take metro line U2 to Königsplatz stop.
Brandhorst Museum – contemporary art
The Brandhorst Museum opened in 2009 and is a central contemporary art museum in Germany. Take the free audio guide in English language and enjoy the contemporary art of more than 1,200 works. Read more about the outstanding collection on this page.
Opening hours:
Admission:
Regular ticket costs EUR 10.00 (reduced ticket EUR 7.00) (as of August 2022).
How to get there?
Take public transportation lines tram No. 27 or 28 to Pinakotheken.
Munich Card – attractive discounts and free usage of public transportation
With the city card “Munich Card” you can use the public transportation for free. In addition, you can enjoy discounts at popular attractions in Munich. Check out this page for details of discounts.
Eat & Drink
Food specialities
One may think Munich offers only beer and pretzels. But wondering what to eat, please be aware that Munich has a lot more to offer. Even though I really enjoy eating pretzels. As described already above, the Viktualienmarkt in the city center is a great place to taste different flavors.
Food in a beer garden
At least once, I recommend sitting in a beer garden and to enjoy traditional Bavarian food. I enjoy eating pretzels and Kaese Spaetzle the most. Pretzels are a salty pastry in the form of a symmetrically intertwined stand of dough. Kaese Spaetzle are made out of a special kind of small egg noddles with cheese and onions.
If you like to eat meat, you should try the famous Schweinshaxe (huge pork knuckle), Hendl (half roasted chicken), Schnitzel (breaded fried meat cutlets) and Wurstsalat (salad made out of sausage).
As written in the Berlin blog post, Bavaria is the place to sit in a beer garden and to enjoy the traditional food.
Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn can be translated into Emperor’s Mess. The Austrian emperor Franz Joseph I enjoyed eating the dish. It is a sweetened pancake severed with apple sauce. It is a popular meal or desert. I enjoy eating it in the café Richart on Marienplatz with a nice view to the square.
Weißwurst – traditional Bavarian sausage
Weißwurst (white sausages) is made out of veal and pork. They are served in warm water with a pretzel and sweet mustard. It is eaten without the skin of the sausages. Traditionally the sausages are eaten before lunchtime.
Ballabeni Icecream – my favourite place to eat icecream
I was walking to the Old Pinakothek, then I noticed a long line in front of the Ballabeni icecream Stammhaus store. I was curious and queued up as well and was rewarded with the best icecream I have eaten for a while. I can recommend tasting the chocolate icecream based on coconut milk.
Asian Food
As Munich offers food options from all over the world, it is difficult to select the best spots for you.
LeDu offers Chinese food in different locations all other the city. I enjoy eating their dumplings. The LeDu restaurant at Stachus even offers Jianbing. The first time I have eaten Jianbing outside China.
A good level of price and quality can be found in the restaurant Yan You. It offers a large variety of Chinese food.
The restaurant Oriental Hong Kong Kitchen 老香港 is located a bit outside the city of Munich. However, it is worth to go there. The food from southern part of China is delicious.
The Slurp Noodle Bar is located just next to the Palace of Justice (you read more about the place in the report “Munich off the beaten path”). It offers delicious soups, that can be put together by yourself. Besides the fantastic Chinese restaurants mentioned above, I would like to share with you a secret tip from an Indian friend. The restaurant Saravanaa Bhavan Munich is part of a global chain. It offers authentic Indian vegetarian cuisine. Check their menu on this page.
Besides the delicious food options, Bubble Tea can be found in various locations. Below are listed my top three choices:
- Nai Cha Bubble Tea – large selection available – address: 80331 München, Sonnenstraße 4
- Kiosk Nono – Bubble Tea & Kaffee – good taste with reasonable pricing; the attention is given to the bubble tea, rather than to the interior – address: 80807 München, Christoph-von-Gluck-Platz 16
- Letcha – coffee is specialized to Matcha creations, try the Matcha bubble tea – address: 80802 München, Herzogstraße 1a
Have you been to Munich before?
Which places did you enjoy the most? Do you have any insider tips or maybe a question about the journey or the accommodations? Just leave a comment. I am looking forward to it.
Read more insights about Munich in the blog posts “Munich off the beaten path” and “castles in and around Munich“.
If you decided to stay at one of the places described, I would love to hear your feedback after your stay.