10 Interesting Activities to do in Munich (2023): A Comprehensive Guide
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It boasts a plethora of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you are a history buff, an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, Munich has something in store for you.
One of the most popular activities in Munich is visiting its historic sites. The city is home to several iconic landmarks, such as the Marienplatz, the Nymphenburg Palace, and the Neuschwanstein Castle, that offer a glimpse into its rich history and architectural heritage. Visitors can also explore its many museums and galleries, such as the Alte Pinakothek and the Deutsches Museum, that showcase its art and science collections.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, Munich has plenty of parks and gardens to explore, such as the Englischer Garten and the Olympiapark, that offer a respite from the city's hustle and bustle. Visitors can also marvel at its architectural landmarks, such as the Frauenkirche and the Asamkirche, that showcase its baroque and gothic styles. Additionally, Munich offers unique cultural experiences, such as the Hofbräuhaus beer hall and the Oktoberfest festival, that provide a glimpse into its Bavarian traditions and customs.
Key Takeaways
Munich offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests and preferences, such as historic sites, museums and galleries, parks and gardens, architectural landmarks, and cultural experiences.
Visitors can explore Munich's rich history and architectural heritage by visiting its iconic landmarks, such as the Marienplatz, the Nymphenburg Palace, and the Neuschwanstein Castle.
Munich's outdoor activities, such as its parks and gardens, and architectural landmarks, such as the Frauenkirche and the Asamkirche, offer a respite from the city's hustle and bustle and showcase its natural beauty and baroque and gothic styles.
Historic Sites in Munich
Munich is a city steeped in history, and there are plenty of historic sites to explore. Here are a few must-see attractions in the city's Old Town.
Marienplatz
Marienplatz is the heart of Munich's Old Town and has been the city's main square since the 12th century. It is home to several historic buildings, including the New Town Hall, which houses the famous Glockenspiel. Visitors can watch the Glockenspiel's figurines perform twice daily, at 11 am and 12 pm.
Residenz
The Residenz served as the seat of Bavarian rulers from the 16th to the 19th century and is now a museum. The palace has over 130 rooms, including the opulent Antiquarium, which was once used for banquets and receptions.
St. Peter's Church
St. Peter's Church is the oldest church in Munich and dates back to the Romanesque period. The church's tower offers stunning views of the city and the Alps. Visitors can also explore the church's interior, which features beautiful frescoes and artwork.
New Town Hall
The New Town Hall, or Neues Rathaus, was completed in 1909 and is an impressive example of Neo-Gothic architecture. The building's tower stands at over 80 meters tall and offers panoramic views of the city. Visitors can also explore the building's interior, which features ornate decorations and artwork.
Overall, Munich's historic sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. Visitors can explore centuries-old buildings and learn about the city's rich history.
Museums and Galleries
Munich is home to some of the most fascinating museums and galleries in the world. From the science and technology museum to the BMW World, the city offers a wide range of options for visitors to explore.
Deutsches Museum
The Deutsches Museum, located on an island in the Isar River, is one of the world's largest science and technology museums. It houses over 100,000 objects and exhibits, including airplanes, cars, locomotives, and much more. Visitors can explore a wide range of topics such as astronomy, energy, and communication. The museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology.
BMW World
BMW World is a must-visit for car enthusiasts. The museum showcases the history of BMW and its innovative designs. Visitors can admire classic cars, motorcycles, and even futuristic prototypes. The museum also offers guided tours and interactive exhibits, making it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Museum of Science and Technology
The Museum of Science and Technology is another fascinating museum in Munich. It features exhibits on a wide range of topics such as physics, chemistry, and biology. The museum also has a planetarium that offers visitors a unique view of the cosmos. The interactive exhibits make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
In conclusion, Munich is a city full of museums and galleries that offer visitors a unique and educational experience. Whether you're interested in science and technology or cars, there's something for everyone to explore.
Parks and Gardens
Munich is known for its beautiful parks and gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Here are two of the most popular parks in Munich:
English Garden
The English Garden, or Englischer Garten, is one of the largest urban parks in the world, covering an area of over 900 acres. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the most popular attractions in the English Garden is the Chinese Tower, a 25-meter-tall pagoda-style tower that houses a beer garden. Visitors can enjoy a cold beer and traditional Bavarian food while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Other attractions in the English Garden include the Monopteros, a small Greek-style temple that offers stunning views of the city, and the Japanese Teahouse, a tranquil spot where visitors can enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Olympic Park
The Olympic Park was built for the 1972 Summer Olympics and has since become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park covers an area of over 850 acres and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the most popular attractions in the Olympic Park is the Olympic Tower, which offers stunning views of the city from a height of 291 meters. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Olympic Stadium, which hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1972 Olympics.
Other attractions in the Olympic Park include the Sea Life Aquarium, which houses over 10,000 sea creatures, and the BMW Museum, which showcases the history of the BMW brand.
Overall, Munich's parks and gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the city and are a must-visit for anyone looking to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Architectural Landmarks
Munich is home to some of the most impressive architectural landmarks in the world. Here are three must-see landmarks that visitors should not miss.
Allianz Arena
The Allianz Arena is an architectural masterpiece that serves as the home of FC Bayern Munich. The stadium is one of the most modern and innovative in the world, with its unique facade made up of thousands of inflated plastic panels that can change color depending on the team playing. Visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium, which includes access to the locker rooms, player tunnel, and VIP areas.
Olympic Stadium
The Olympic Stadium is a landmark that was built for the 1972 Summer Olympics. The stadium is a marvel of modernist architecture and engineering, with its distinctive tent-like roof that seems to float above the stadium. Visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium, which includes access to the Olympic Tower, where they can enjoy panoramic views of Munich.
Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche is a stunning Gothic cathedral that dominates the skyline of Munich. The church is famous for its twin towers, which are visible from almost anywhere in the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the church, which includes access to the crypt, where the remains of members of the Bavarian royal family are interred.
These three architectural landmarks are just a few of the many must-see landmarks in Munich. Visitors to the city should take the time to explore the city's rich architectural heritage, which includes everything from medieval castles to modernist skyscrapers.
Cultural Experiences
Munich is a city steeped in culture and history. Visitors to the city can explore a wide range of cultural experiences, from visiting historic landmarks to sampling traditional Bavarian cuisine. Here are a few cultural experiences that should be on every visitor's list:
Beer Gardens
Munich is famous for its beer culture, and no trip to the city would be complete without a visit to one of its many beer gardens. These outdoor spaces offer visitors the chance to enjoy a cold beer in the sunshine while taking in the city's beautiful scenery. Some popular beer gardens in Munich include the Augustiner Keller, the Hofbräuhaus, and the Chinesischer Turm.
Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is the world's largest beer festival, and it takes place annually in Munich. The festival attracts millions of visitors from around the world who come to enjoy traditional Bavarian food, music, and of course, beer. Oktoberfest is a cultural experience like no other, and it's a must-visit for anyone traveling to Munich in the fall.
Whether you're a beer enthusiast or simply looking to experience Bavarian culture, Munich has something to offer everyone. From beer gardens to Oktoberfest, visitors to the city will have no shortage of cultural experiences to enjoy.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Munich is a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts. From traditional Bavarian clothing to unique art pieces, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to shop for souvenirs in Munich:
Viktualienmarkt
Viktualienmarkt is Munich's largest outdoor market and a great place to shop for local produce, flowers, and souvenirs. The market has been around since the 1800s and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. Visitors can find a variety of traditional Bavarian souvenirs such as beer steins, dirndls, and lederhosen. There are also many food stalls selling local delicacies such as sausages, cheese, and pretzels.
Maxvorstadt
Maxvorstadt is a trendy neighborhood in Munich known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes. Visitors can find a variety of unique souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, art pieces, and vintage clothing. The neighborhood is also home to many independent bookstores and record shops, making it a great place to find rare books and vinyl records.
When shopping for souvenirs in Munich, it is important to keep in mind that some items may be tourist traps or overpriced. It is always a good idea to compare prices and shop around before making a purchase. Visitors should also be aware of any customs restrictions when bringing souvenirs back to their home country.
Overall, shopping for souvenirs in Munich can be a fun and rewarding experience. Visitors can find a variety of unique and traditional items that make great gifts for friends and family back home.
Escape Games and City Tours
For those looking for a more immersive experience in Munich, escape games and city tours are a great option. These activities offer a unique way to explore the city while challenging oneself mentally and physically.
Zombie Lab
Zombie Lab is an escape game that takes place in a laboratory where a virus has turned the staff into zombies. The players must solve puzzles and clues to find the antidote and escape before the zombies get them. This game is perfect for those who love horror and puzzles.
Alien Invasion
Alien Invasion is another escape game that takes place in an abandoned warehouse where aliens have taken over. The players must work together to solve puzzles and clues to find a way to defeat the aliens and escape. This game is perfect for those who love science fiction and teamwork.
Die Flucht aus der Anstalt
Die Flucht aus der Anstalt is a city tour that takes place in Munich's historic district. The tour guide plays the role of a patient who has escaped from a mental institution and takes the players on a journey to solve puzzles and clues to find a way out of the city. This tour is perfect for those who love history and storytelling.
Overall, escape games and city tours are a great way to explore Munich while challenging oneself mentally and physically. These activities offer a unique and immersive experience that is sure to be memorable.
Transportation in Munich
Munich has a well-developed public transportation system that is reliable, efficient, and affordable. From buses, trains, trams, and subways, visitors can easily navigate the city and reach their desired destinations.
Central Bank Story
The Munich Central Bank Story is a unique way to experience the city's transportation system. Visitors can purchase a day ticket and ride the U-Bahn (subway) to explore Munich's underground art scene. The U-Bahn stations are adorned with colorful murals and sculptures, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.
For those who prefer to travel above ground, the tram system is a great option. Trams run throughout the city and provide a scenic view of Munich's architecture and landmarks. Visitors can purchase a day ticket or a multi-day pass for unlimited travel on trams, buses, and subways.
Munich's transportation system is also accessible for those with disabilities. The buses, trams, and subways are equipped with ramps and designated seating for individuals with mobility impairments.
Overall, Munich's public transportation system is an excellent way to explore the city. Visitors can easily navigate the city and reach their desired destinations while experiencing Munich's unique art scene and architecture.
Best Accommodations to Stay in Munich
When planning a trip to Munich, finding the right accommodation can make all the difference. Whether you're looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, Munich has a variety of options to choose from. Here are some of the best accommodations to stay in Munich:
Hotels
Munich has a range of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels in Munich:
Ruby Lilly Hotel Munich: This hip and modern hotel is located in the heart of Munich's art district. The soundproof rooms include unique amenities like iPads and a Marshall amp to plug in a rental electric guitar.
Eurostars Grand Central: This 4-star design hotel is built for relaxation and is located close to Munich's main train station. The spacious rooms are elegantly furnished and feature modern amenities.
Flushing Meadows Hotel: This retro-chic hotel is located in Munich's lively and colorful Glockenbach district. The hotel features a cool rooftop bar and is within walking distance of many of Munich's top attractions.
Hostels
For budget-conscious travelers, Munich has a range of hostels that offer affordable accommodation without sacrificing comfort. Here are some of the best hostels in Munich:
Big Mountain Hostel: This centrally located hostel offers a range of amenities, including a bar, a common room, and a kitchen.
Euro Youth Hotel Munich: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Munich and offers a range of room types, including private rooms and dormitories. The hostel features a bar, a common room, and a garden.
Viktoria 4 you - Whg. 01: This modern hostel is located in Munich's trendy Westerland district and offers a range of room types, including private rooms and dormitories. The hostel features a bar, a common room, and a kitchen.
Overall, Munich offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, Munich has something to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some fun activities to do in Munich with kids?
Munich is a great city for families with children. There are many fun activities to do with kids, such as visiting the Munich Zoo, exploring the Deutsches Museum, taking a bike tour around the city, or enjoying a picnic in the English Garden. The city also has many playgrounds and parks where children can run around and play.
What are some recommended things to do in Munich in October?
October is a great time to visit Munich, especially if you want to experience the world-famous Oktoberfest. Other recommended activities include visiting the Munich Botanical Garden, exploring the Nymphenburg Palace, taking a walking tour of the city's historic neighborhoods, or attending a concert at the Munich Philharmonic.
What are some relaxing activities to do in Munich?
If you're looking for some relaxing activities in Munich, you can visit one of the city's many beer gardens, take a stroll through the English Garden, or enjoy a spa day at one of the city's many wellness centers. You can also take a boat tour down the Isar River or visit one of the city's many museums.
What is the best time of year to visit Munich?
The best time to visit Munich depends on what you're interested in. If you want to experience Oktoberfest, then September and October are the best months to visit. If you want to enjoy the city's outdoor activities, then the summer months (June-August) are ideal. If you prefer cooler weather and want to avoid crowds, then the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are good options.
How many days should I spend in Munich to see the main attractions?
To see the main attractions in Munich, it is recommended to spend at least 3-4 days in the city. This will give you enough time to visit popular sites such as Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche, the Hofbräuhaus, and the Nymphenburg Palace. However, if you want to explore the city in-depth and visit more museums and lesser-known attractions, then you may want to spend a week or more in Munich.
What are the top places to visit in Munich's Old Town?
Munich's Old Town is full of historic buildings, museums, and landmarks. Some of the top places to visit include the Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche, the Viktualienmarkt, the Residenz Palace, and the Asam Church. You can also take a walking tour of the city's historic neighborhoods to see more of the city's architecture and landmarks.