25+ Best Things to do in Munich, Germany

Overview of Munich, Germany

Munich, Germany is a city of culture and history. With its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and unique attractions it’s no wonder why people flock here year-round. Spencer and I have been lucky enough to visit Munich twice (and still want to go back, which is saying something.) There always seems to be something more to discover around every corner. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich history or find some of its best bars and restaurants, there are plenty of things to do in Munich. Here are 25 of the best activities for you to experience in this amazing city.

Getting around Munich

Most people fly directly into Munich airport. The Franz Josef Strauss International Airport (Munich Airport) is the closest airport to the city. You can easily get to the city center by train bus or taxi. You can get the Lufthansa Express bus that is equipped with newspapers and Wifi! If you prefer to have a private airport transfer, this one has 5 stars!

If you’re focused on Munich’s Old Town, near Marienplatz, then it’s easy to walk around Munich. However, if you’re looking to get out of the city center, then public transportation is your best bet. If you’re short on time a Munich hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to see the city. I love being able to spend as much or as little time as I want somewhere. You can also use it to just move around the city. 

The city has an impressive public transportation network with S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses, and trams so don’t be afraid to hop on! 

Best Things to do in Munich, Germany

Visit Marienplatz

Marienplatz, located in the heart of Munich, is an iconic square that has been around since 1158. Marienplatz is a vibrant and bustling destination for locals and tourists alike. It’s a great place to find unique shops, enjoy a beer at an outdoor café, or people-watch. The square is also home to the New Town Hall which was built in the late 1800s and is famous for its Glockenspiel show which takes place twice daily. There are plenty of interesting sights to take in while you’re here. Stroll through the courtyard, explore nearby churches and museums, or just relax with a delicious pretzel in hand! No matter what you decide to do, Marienplatz is sure to be one of your favorite spots during your stay in Munich!

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany, located just a few miles from Munich. Built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria between 1869 and 1886, this castle is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival architecture. The exterior features majestic towers and colorful frescoes that make it look like something out of a fairytale. Inside, visitors can explore ornate rooms decorated with grand furnishings and intricate works of art. Neuschwanstein Castle offers plenty of activities for the whole family, including guided tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, hiking trails, and even an opportunity to dress up as royalty! Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a fun day out with the kids, Neuschwanstein Castle is sure to be an unforgettable experience! You can take a day trip to the castle to learn more about the history and area.

Enjoy a beer at Hofbrauhaus

No trip to Munich is complete without a visit to the iconic beer hall, Hofbrauhaus. Established in 1589, this legendary establishment is one of the oldest and most beloved beer halls in the world. With its lively atmosphere, traditional Bavarian dishes, and of course, its delicious beers, it’s no wonder that Hofbrauhaus has become such a popular destination for visitors. Step inside and you’ll be greeted by long wooden tables overflowing with glasses of beer filled to the brim with frothy suds. Enjoy your favorite brew while noshing on some classic Bavarian fare like pretzels, sausages, or schnitzel. Be sure to join in on some traditional Bavarian music while you’re here! Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy an evening out with friends or just want a taste of Munich’s unique culture, Hofbrauhaus will make for a memorable experience.

Take a stroll through Englischer Garten

Englischer Garten is a sprawling park located in the heart of Munich. It’s an oasis of green in the midst of a bustling city, and it’s no wonder that it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The park covers an area of over 900 acres and is filled with meadows, ponds, streams, and pathways for visitors to explore. Of course, there are also plenty of places to relax and take in the views. Whether you’re looking for a place to go for a walk or just want to enjoy some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Englischer Garten is sure to provide what you need. Pack a picnic lunch and spend an afternoon lounging on the grass or take a leisurely stroll around the park – either way, you’ll be sure to enjoy this tranquil spot.

Explore the Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Munich. This world-famous museum is located on an island in the Isar River and houses one of the most impressive collections of scientific artifacts and objects in Europe. Visitors can explore exhibitions dedicated to technology, natural history, air travel, and much more. The museum also has its own planetarium, which allows visitors to explore the night sky up close. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, making it a great place for regular visits. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do with your family, a trip to the Deutsches Museum is sure to be an enjoyable and educational experience.

See the Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche is one of Munich’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning Gothic cathedral stands tall at the heart of the city, and its beauty is only rivaled by its history. Built in the 15th century, it has been a symbol of faith for centuries and still serves as an important part of religious life in Munich today. Visitors can explore the interior of the church to take in its majestic architecture and remarkable frescoes, or ascend to the top of its towers for breathtaking views over Munich. Whether you’re a believer or simply curious about this historic building, the Frauenkirche is well worth a visit when you’re in town.

Visit the Viktualienmarkt

The Viktualienmarkt is one of the best places to go in Munich for a unique shopping experience. Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant open-air market has been around since 1807 and features over 120 stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, fish, cheese, honey, spices and more. It’s also a great place to sample some of Germany’s famous sausages or try some local beer. In addition to the food stalls, there are also plenty of kiosks selling souvenirs and other knick-knacks. The Viktualienmarkt is open every day except Sundays and is an ideal spot for shopping and soaking up the atmosphere of one of Munich’s most iconic attractions.

Take a tour of the BMW museum

The BMW Museum in Munich offers an exciting and educational insight into the history of one of the world’s most famous car brands. Located in the heart of Munich, this museum is home to a variety of exhibits that trace the evolution of BMW cars from the 1930s right up to modern models. Visitors can explore interactive displays, browse a selection of vintage and concept vehicles, and even take a virtual ride with one of BMW’s iconic racing drivers. The museum also houses various artifacts related to BMW motorsport events, as well as a wealth of information about the company’s innovative technologies. Whether you’re a fan of cars or just looking for something unique to do in Munich, taking a guided tour around the BMW Museum is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

Check out the Asam Church

The Asam Church, located in the heart of Munich, is a must-see for any visitor to the city. This stunning Baroque church was designed by brothers Egid and Cosmas Asam in the 18th century and remains one of the most beautiful examples of Bavarian architecture. The interior is adorned with intricate stucco work, ornate frescoes, elaborate marble sculptures and other decorations that dazzle visitors from the moment they set foot inside. In addition to its impressive architecture, the church also houses a number of religious artifacts and artwork from various eras. If you’re looking for an awe-inspiring place to explore during your stay in Munich, then make sure you don’t miss out on visiting the Asam Church!

Visit St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter’s Church is one of the oldest churches in Munich and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Located near the heart of Munich, this beautiful church was built in the 12th century and stands tall as an example of Romanesque architecture. Inside, visitors can admire its stunning interior with its intricate frescoes and ceiling paintings depicting religious scenes from centuries ago. The church also houses a number of artifacts, including its famous carved wooden altarpiece that dates back to the 16th century. Whether you’re looking for a place to worship or just want to admire its historical beauty, St. Peter’s Church is definitely worth a visit while you’re in Munich!

Visit the Munich Botanical Garden

For nature lovers, a trip to the Munich Botanical Garden is a must. Located in the heart of the city, this beautiful garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants from all over the world. From cacti and succulents to tropical flowers and fragrant herbs, visitors can explore the diverse flora in this lush environment. Plus, there are plenty of activities for families and kids too! With its interactive exhibits, educational programs and guided tours, it’s easy to spend an entire day here exploring everything that the garden has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or just want to learn more about nature, Munich Botanical Garden definitely won’t disappoint.

Explore the Olympic Park

The Olympic Park in Munich is a must-see for any visitor to the city. This sprawling complex was built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, and today it is home to a variety of attractions. The Olympic Tower offers incredible views of Munich from its observation deck, while the Bavarian State Library houses an extensive collection of books and manuscripts related to sports and Olympism. For those with an interest in science, visiting the nearby BMW Museum or Deutsches Museum is also highly recommended. Of course, no visit to the Olympic Park would be complete without stopping by the iconic Olympic Stadium, where you can watch a match or explore its hallowed grounds. Whether you’re looking for some family fun or just want to take in some culture and history, this one-of-a-kind destination has something for everyone!

See the Allianz Arena

The Allianz Arena is a must-see attraction in Munich. Home to the FC Bayern München football team, it is one of the most modern stadiums in Europe and boasts a capacity of 75,000 people. Although the exterior may appear futuristic, the stadium’s design was inspired by the region’s rolling hills and its colors are inspired by Bavarian flags. On match days, the arena is filled with enthusiastic fans decked out in red and white. The atmosphere inside is electric and an experience not to be missed. But even if you’re not lucky enough to get tickets for a game, you can still take a tour of this iconic stadium. You’ll get access to areas normally off-limits to visitors such as locker rooms, changing rooms and VIP boxes. It’s an experience no sports fan should miss!

Take a tour of the Bavarian State Opera

The Bavarian State Opera is one of Munich’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor to the city. The opera house dates back to the late 19th century and has been home to some of the most renowned operas in the world. From Wagner’s Ring Cycle, to Strauss’s Der Rosenkavalier, the Bavarian State Opera continues to put on spectacular productions every season. If you’re looking for something special, take a tour of this stunning building before it opens its doors for another show. You’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how this grand building operates and be able to explore areas normally off-limits to visitors such as rehearsal rooms and costume storage. After your tour you can also enjoy a meal at one of the many fine restaurants located nearby. So why not treat yourself and take a tour of this incredible venue?

Visit the Munich City Museum

If you’re looking to learn more about Munich’s rich history and culture, then a visit to the Munich City Museum is an absolute must. Located in the heart of Munich’s historic old town, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the city’s past. You’ll be able to explore exhibits that showcase everything from the city’s medieval beginnings to its modern-day development. The museum also features a wide variety of artifacts from different periods in time, ranging from ancient coins and pottery to modern paintings and sculptures. Not only that but there are also interactive displays that allow visitors to get hands-on experience with the many different cultures that have shaped Munich over centuries. So if you want to learn more about what makes this incredible city unique, then be sure to add a visit to the Munich City Museum on your list of things to do in Munich!

See the Glyptothek Museum

The Glyptothek Museum is a must-visit for anyone in Munich looking to explore some of the city’s rich cultural history. Located in the heart of Munich’s historic old town, this museum is devoted to ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, as well as other works of art from antiquity. Visitors can explore an impressive collection of statues, busts, and reliefs, along with works from numerous other cultures that have influenced the development of European art. The museum also houses a number of interactive displays that allow you to learn more about how these different cultures interacted throughout history. Whether you’re interested in sculpture or just want to get a better understanding of ancient art, the Glyptothek Museum offers something for everyone. So if you’re looking for a unique way to experience Munich’s cultural heritage, then be sure to add this incredible museum to your list of things to do!

Take a stroll through the Maximilianstrasse

Maximilianstrasse is one of the most popular streets in Munich, known for its grand architecture and abundance of designer stores. Strolling through this street is a great way to take in some of the city’s historic sights while also getting a taste of modern-day luxury. Along this boulevard, you’ll find many grand buildings, such as the Old Town Hall and the State Opera House, that are worth stopping to admire. But even if you don’t have time to explore these monuments in full, simply walking down Maximilianstrasse offers an impressive view of Munich’s past and present. As you wander the street, be sure to window shop at some of the high-end boutiques or take a break at one of the many cafes that line up along the cobblestones. Whether it’s for an afternoon or just half an hour, taking a stroll down Maximilianstrasse is sure to be one of your favorite things to do during your stay in Munich!

See the Schloss Blutenburg Castle

Schloss Blutenburg Castle is one of the most beloved landmarks in Munich and a must-visit destination for any tourist. Located on the banks of the Isar River, this castle was originally built as a hunting lodge in the 15th century before eventually becoming a royal residence. Today, it stands as a stunning example of Renaissance architecture and is home to some incredible works of art. Inside the castle, visitors can explore themed rooms like the Hall of Mirrors, admire stunning frescoes in the chapel, and even take part in guided tours that explain more about its history. But perhaps what makes Schloss Blutenburg so special is its tranquil setting on the banks of the Isar River; from here, one can watch boats drift by or simply marvel at how perfectly this ancient architecture blends into its natural surroundings. Whether you’re looking for a historic day trip or just want to soak up some beautiful scenery, Schloss Blutenburg should be at the top of your list!

Wander through the Bavarian National Museum

The Bavarian National Museum is one of Munich’s most impressive museums. Located in the Maxvorstadt district, it houses an incredible variety of artifacts and artworks that tell the story of Bavaria’s cultural history. From archaeological finds to modern works of art, this museum has something for everyone. A visit to the Bavarian National Museum will take you through centuries of culture, from prehistoric times to the present day. You can explore ancient tools and weapons, marvel at intricate frescoes, and even catch a glimpse at some of the region’s oldest manuscripts. The museum also holds regular events and activities such as lectures, film screenings and concerts, making it a great place to learn more about Bavaria’s past. Take some time out from sightseeing to wander through this fascinating museum – you won’t regret it!

Visit the Lenbachhaus Art Museum

Munich’s art scene was vibrant and influential at the beginning of the 20th century. The Blaue Reiter group, including Kandinsky, Franz Marc, Gabriele Münter, and August Macke, challenged the old academies. The Lenbachhaus Museum displays many paintings by these Expressionist artists. The museum also exhibits contemporary art by Gerhard Richter, Andy Warhol and Jenny Holzer. The museum showcases Munich-based artists from Jan Polack to Georg Desmarées, Carl Anton Joseph Rottmann and Carl Spitzweg. The museum is named after Franz von Lenbach, who commissioned the building in the 1880s. A new wing was added to the museum in 2013, featuring a copper and aluminum tube exterior.

Pinakothek der Moderne Art Museum

Munich’s modern art museum, also known as the “Dritte,” is just as important as its neighboring Alte and Neue Pinakothek museums. The galleries are comprehensive and feature artwork by celebrated artists from the last century. The Expressionism exhibition is a highlight, featuring artists such as Kirchner, Kandinsky, Klee, Franz Marc, and Emil Nolde. The Modernism galleries feature work by Francis Bacon, Braque, Otto Dix, Picasso, Magritte, Max Ernst, and Joan Miró. The contemporary galleries showcase art by Sigmar Polke, Andy Warhol, David Hockney, Lucio Fontana, and others. Additionally, the museum offers exhibitions on applied art, industrial design, photography, drawings, and architecture.

Admire the Theatine Church

The Theatine Church at Odeonplatz has a yellow facade and was built in the 17th century. Italian architects designed it in the Baroque style, inspired by Rome’s Sant’Andrea della Valle. The facade is painted and decorated with niches, reliefs, Doric columns, and Ionic pilasters. It was built in fulfillment of a vow made by Henriette Adelaide of Savoy to give birth to a crown prince for Elector Ferdinand Maria. Inside, visitors can see the altar with images of the evangelists from 1722, a black wooden pulpit from 1688, and the crypt where members of the Wittelsbach family are buried.

Explore the Alte Pinakothek Art Museum

The Alte Pinakothek is one of the world’s oldest art galleries, dating back to 1836. It was designed in the Neo-Renaissance style, which became a model for galleries in Brussels, Rome, and St. Petersburg. King Ludwig I ordered the building to house the Wittelsbach dynasty’s art collection, which started in the 1500s. The museum has 800 paintings from the 1200s to the 1800s, featuring German, French, Dutch, Flemish, Italian, and Spanish artists. The masters include Rubens, Dürer, and van Dyck, each with multiple paintings on display. Other prestigious names include Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, Bosch, and Rembrandt.

Explore the Munich Residenz

The Munich Residenz began as a castle for the Wittelsbach monarchs in the 14th century. It grew into a palace complex with ten courtyards and 130 rooms over several hundred years. Various rulers contributed to the palace’s Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical styles. The palace is so large and rich in art that it’s best seen in multiple visits. Don’t miss the Italian Renaissance Grotto Courtyard, the Antiquarium banquet hall, and the Baroque Ancestral Gallery’s gilded moldings.

Visit Müller’sches Volksbad

The Müller’sches Volksbad on the right bank of the Isar is a unique swimming experience for those who appreciate Art Nouveau design. It’s not widely known and adds an element of secrecy to the experience. The pool is the only one of its kind in Germany and every aspect of the swimming and sauna session is made exciting by Carl Hochede’s Classical motifs, patterned stucco flourishes on the ceilings, whimsical lamp holders, and wrought iron banisters.

Oktoberfest

The world’s biggest beer festival attracts seven million visitors and sees over 7.5 million litres of beer consumed. It takes place for 16-18 days, starting on the third Saturday of September and dates back to 1810 when Prince Ludwig married Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen. In 1896, gigantic beer tents were built by the city’s breweries for the celebration, and beer-drinking has since been the main activity. There are 14 tents permanently set up at Theresienwiese in the west of the city, each holding up to 8,500 revellers. It’s recommended to arrive early if you want a seat as these tents fill up quickly. You can also enjoy the amusements and funfair rides, and indulge in pretzels, bratwurst and schnitzel to soak up the alcohol.

Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets in Munich, Germany are a magical sight to behold. Starting in late November and lasting through December, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with glittering lights, festive decorations, and the warm aroma of mulled wine and roasted nuts filling the air. The markets offer a variety of traditional Christmas crafts, from handmade ornaments and candles to gingerbread cookies and marzipan sweets. Visitors can also indulge in delicious Bavarian specialties like sausages, pretzels, and spiced wine. The most famous market, located in the heart of Munich’s old town, features a giant Christmas tree and a stunning nativity scene. The atmosphere is joyous and merry, making it the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.

Plan your epic trip to Munich with these resources:

• Use Get Your Guide to find great deals and discounts on tours, attractions, and more across the city. I highly recommend it and use it all the time.
• Public transport system in Munich is called MVV. If you are looking for inexpensive public transport then a single or group day ticket on MVV is perfect.
• Find the best hotels in Munich Germany here.
• Get a CityTourCard for Munich if you wish to see a lot when you are here. It offers you free public transport and discounts on several attractions.

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