Germany's third-largest city, Munich, is the capital of Bavaria and one of the most well-known and historically significant nations on the continent. Munich is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in the world because of how seamlessly the modern and the historical coexist in the city. Plan your Munich itinerary by going to the magnificent churches, exceptional museums, and palaces, as well as spending some time at a festival having fun with the locals or drinking beer and eating German food. The city has so much to offer that is just waiting for you to find it.
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What not to miss?
Marienplatz
Marienplatz, which is located in the Altstadt, is the ideal starting point for a tour of Munich. Since the 12th century, this square, which is the oldest in the city, has served as its focal point. An excellent starting point for a tour of the old city of Munich. Munich's centre of activity is Marienplatz, which is surrounded by stunning structures, bars, restaurants, and shopping streets that lead to and from it. The stunning Neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus, the earlier Altes Rathaus, St. Peter's Church, as well as lovely fountains and monuments like the MarienSaule, can all be found there (Marien Column). A lot of the city's historical sites are also nearby.
The Marienplatz is frequented by locals and visitors alike who stroll through it to take in its charm. The chiming clock performances of the Glockenspiel, which is housed in the clock tower of Neues Rathaus, at 11 and 12 o'clock are the most fascinating and something you should definitely plan to see. Locals and tourists pause to watch the animated clock on the Gothic structure in action.
New Town Hall (Neus Rathaus)
While Marienplatz is lined with many interesting structures, it's easy to overlook the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall). Despite being only a few years old—built in 1874—this opulent structure has grown to become one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.
The entire northern side of the square is occupied by the Neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), which was constructed in the Gothic Revival style. On the southeast side of Marienplatz, it is a stunning structure that was built in the second half of the 19th century to replace the older and smaller Altes Rathaus.
While Neus Rathaus functions as a city hall and houses government administrative offices. The Mayor, the city administration, and local government are also located there.
St. Peter's Church
The oldest church in Munich, St. Peter's Church, is only a block south of Marienplatz. With its intricate architecture and tall tower, St. Peter's Church, also known as "Peterskirche in German, is one of the most beautiful churches in Munich.
St. Peter's Church, which dates to the 11th century, suffered significant fire damage during WWII. Over the years, a Baroque style was added and the Gothic restoration was faithfully carried out.
St. Michael's Church
St. Michael's Church, a gorgeous building that bridges the Renaissance and Baroque periods of architecture, is known as the Michaelskirche. The Wittelsbach family acquired St. Michael's Church, a monument to the Counter-Reformation that was built by the Jesuits in the late 16th century.
Behind St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, the church's interior features the second-largest barrel vault style nave in the world, spanning freely more than 20 meters. It has been stylized in the style of the era's counter-reformation movement. On top of that, there are numerous angel statues incorporated into the upper walls, a beautiful high altar in the front, and numerous decorative altars on the sides.
What else to visit?
Munich Residenz
Visit the Munich Residenz, one of Germany's biggest city palaces, in the late afternoon. Since the fourteenth century, the royal Wittelsbach family of Bavaria has lived in Residenz. Several monuments and museums are currently housed in the Residenz, including the Residenz Museum, the Treasury, the Court Church of All Saints, and the Cuvilliés-Theater.
The group of buildings has about 130 rooms and ten courtyards. There is a lot to see, and taking in the rooms could easily take up half a day. The design of the rooms is absolutely incredible and impressive, and they are kept in good condition. The entire Residenz complex is filled with room after room of incredible royal wealth and pageantry.
Neuschwanstein
Numerous beautiful castles can be found in Germany, but Neuschwanstein Castle is by far the most well-known. Neuschwanstein is a well-liked day trip from Munich and is only about two hours by train from the city.
King Ludwig II of Bavaria began construction on the fairytale castle in 1886, but he passed away before having the opportunity to occupy it. Ludwig earned the moniker "mad king" as a result of his ambitious endeavors. The castle is perched atop a rocky hill in the picturesque village of Hohenschwangau. One of Bavaria's most beautiful and romantic castles is this one.
Linderhof palace
Linderhof Palace is yet another fantastic option for a day trip in Munich. King Ludwig II of Bavaria constructed Linderhof Palace, which is similar to Neuschwanstein Castle. The smallest of the three castles, it was the only one finished prior to his passing.
In comparison to other palaces in Europe, Linderhof Palace is a tiny structure, resembling a very scaled-down version of Versailles in Paris. However, the palace is lavish and opulent, and the royal gardens are lovely and large with a well-kept gushing fountain that periodically puts on a show. Additionally, the 30-minute interior tour of the palace is very educational. It is not permitted to take photos inside the palace.
How to travel there?
The best ways to travel into Munich's city centre from Munich International Airport, which is located 28.6 kilometres away, are by train or bus. The journey from the airport to the city centre on the S-Bahn lines #1 and #8 takes about 35 minutes. Additionally, a shuttle bus from the airport runs every 15 minutes to Hauptbahnhof.
You'll probably make a stop at one of Munich's train or bus stations if you're travelling by train or bus. The Hauptbahnhof (Hbf) is the main rail station for international trains arriving from all European cities. From there, board the trams, buses, suburban trains (S-Bahn), underground metro (U-Bahn), or suburban trains to reach other parts of the city.
When to travel there?
Munich is open all year round, and visitors can take advantage of the city's four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Munich is in the spring, from March to May, when the weather is at its most pleasant. Munich's busiest month is the summer because it's one of the city's busiest times of year.
The Oktoberfest, which takes place in Munich from late September to early October, makes the fall the busiest and most expensive time to travel there. Millions of tourists converge on Munich during Oktoberfest to partake in this celebrated festival.
Average costs
For your vacation in Munich, you should budget approximately €120 per day, which is the average daily price based on what other visitors paid. The average cost of meals for one day for previous tourists was €20, and the average cost of local transportation was €15. A couple can stay in a hotel for an average cost of €138 in Munich. Thus, the average cost of a one-week trip for two people to Munich is €1,600. These average travel costs were compiled from feedback from other travelers to assist you in creating your own travel budget.
Where to eat?
Hofbräuhaus
Munich is impossible to visit without having a beer, and there are dozens to choose from all over the city. The most genuine and one of the best places for it is Hofbräuhaus. It was formerly a part of the Staatliches Hofbräuhaus brewery and is now a well-known traditional Bavarian beer hall.
The Hofbräuhaus would be a popular place for visitors to stop by for one, two, or even more beer glasses. A few notable former visitors to this 400-year-old establishment include Lenin, Louis Armstrong, Gorbachev, John F. Kennedy, and Hitler. At one point in his career, Hitler even held his rally in the hall on the second floor.
We delighted in our premium Bavarian beers and were thrilled by the wonderful Munich atmosphere. Restaurant with lovely decorations, festive atmosphere, and excellent music. Most importantly, the experience was priceless and the food and beer were both excellent! Make sure to order the roast pork, pork knuckle, and schnitzel, as well as a few pretzels to go with your beer.
Viktualienmarkt
A popular destination for both locals and tourists. A daily food market and square called Viktualienmarkt can be found in the heart of Munich, close to Marienplatz. It has over 140 stalls selling a variety of produce, including butchers, fresh vegetables, flowers, cheese, and spices.
Additionally, Viktualienmarkt is a fantastic location for lunch. Numerous food stands offer regional treats like wurst, schnitzel, pretzel, and even fresh falafel. You can enjoy some of the regional foods you may have purchased in the market in the Biergarten, which is located in the middle of the market. Be sure to purchase a beverage.
Events
Oktoberfest!
Basically, Oktoberfest is in Munich! Munich offers a lot more activities, but let's face it: this is the most incredible, well-known, and significant beer festival you have ever attended. There must be a reason why both locals and visitors enjoy and celebrate it annually, right? Therefore, you have no reason to miss it! The best way to experience Munich. If you want to sound more authentically Bavarian, just call it "Wiesn" like the locals do.
Christmas Markets
The most fantastic season of the year. That means that one of Munich's most memorable highlight events—the lovely Christmas markets—occurs once more. Amazing mulled wine, handmade goods, delectable German fare, and Christmassy music are all available at the charming, sparkling little huts. Enjoy the holiday spirit! You must try the Feuerzangenbowle; it is delicious and somewhat reminiscent of mulled wine. It also contains a burning sugar cube.
Tollwood festival
The Tollwood Festival consists of musical performances, a market for food and crafts, a space for visual art, and a party area. a distinct setting with a wealth of things to discover, observe and hear. The silent disco is our best advice. You can choose the music as you dance while wearing headphones. A very unique party experience! One more piece of advice: take a picnic with friends and sit on Olympia hill to enjoy the festival's bands and singers.
Tunix open air
Another outdoor music festival that was put together by students. At the renowned Königsplatz in the heart of Munich, dance! Spend time socializing with friends in the Biergarten or unwinding in the chill out area. We are going without a doubt because entry is free!
Klassik am Odeonplatz
One of Munich's largest cultural events. You'll be in awe of the soloists and symphony orchestra! The festival at Odeonsplatz promises to feature the finest classical music in unique settings with an unforgettable ambiance.
Hope you enjoyed the Munich guide! We believe that you got inspired to travel and this article will help you to plan your trip there. We also have other places for you to explore, see our guides to Vienna, Zurich, or Monte Carlo. Do not forget to follow us @thewalkingparrot to be always updated on the new releases.