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Munich: Historic Sites, Beer Gardens, and BMW Museum

Thomas Wolf, www.foto-tw.de, Stadtbild München, CC BY-SA 3.0 de
Photo: Thomas Wolf, www.foto-tw.de, Stadtbild München, CC BY-SA 3.0 de
small photo of the author of the site
Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Munich? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Munich.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Bavaria, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Bavaria here.

Nature in the city, relax and enjoy

Munich offers a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, providing visitors with numerous opportunities to unwind. The city is known for its green spaces, tranquil environments, and a culture that values relaxation and leisure. Whether you're seeking a peaceful walk, a quiet spot to read, or a place to rejuvenate, Munich's diverse offerings cater to those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

In Munich, the English Garden is a must-visit, offering expansive lawns, serene lakes, and shaded pathways perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet picnic. For those interested in botanical beauty, the Munich Botanical Garden showcases a wide variety of plant species in a peaceful setting. If you're looking to relax by the water, Lake Starnberg provides a picturesque backdrop for swimming or lounging on the shore. For a wellness retreat, the Therme Erding, located just outside the city, offers thermal baths and spa treatments. Additionally, the Nymphenburg Palace Park combines historical architecture with tranquil gardens, ideal for a reflective walk. These spots offer a range of activities designed to help visitors recharge and enjoy the city's peaceful side.

Culture and history, explore and discover

Munich offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences, blending traditional Bavarian customs with modern influences. Visitors can expect to encounter a city that values its heritage, with numerous festivals, art scenes, and architectural marvels. The city is known for its vibrant beer culture, historic architecture, and a deep appreciation for the arts, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in exploring both history and contemporary culture.

In Munich, tourists can explore the iconic Marienplatz, the heart of the city, where the Neues Rathaus stands with its famous Glockenspiel. The Residenz, once the royal palace of Bavarian monarchs, offers a glimpse into opulent history. Art enthusiasts will find the Pinakothek museums, showcasing European masterpieces from different eras, a must-visit. The Nymphenburg Palace, with its sprawling gardens, provides insight into the grandeur of Bavarian royalty. For a taste of local culture, the Viktualienmarkt offers a vibrant market experience. Additionally, the Deutsches Museum, one of the world's largest science and technology museums, provides interactive exhibits for curious minds. To experience traditional Bavarian culture, attending Oktoberfest or visiting a beer hall like Hofbräuhaus can be quite memorable.

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Munich?

Munich offers a variety of mobility options that make getting around the city convenient and efficient. The city center is pedestrian-friendly, encouraging exploration on foot, while a comprehensive public transportation network connects different areas seamlessly. Cycling is also a popular choice, with numerous bike paths available. Ride-sharing services complement these options, providing flexibility for residents and visitors alike.

In Munich, the pedestrian zone in the city center, particularly around Marienplatz, allows for easy walking and access to shops and attractions. The local public transportation system, operated by MVV, includes U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses, with tickets available for single trips or in various time-based options. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Free Now operate in the city, offering an alternative to traditional taxis. For cycling enthusiasts, bike-sharing programs such as MVG Rad and Call a Bike provide convenient rental options, with numerous docking stations throughout the city. When using public transport, consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel within certain zones, and always validate your ticket before boarding.

All sights sorted by distance from center

1 Hofbräuhaus am Platzl: One of Munich's oldest beer halls, dating back to the 16th century, offering Bavarian food, beer, and live music. Distance in km: 0.33
2 Viktualienmarkt: A daily food market and a square in the center of Munich, known for its diverse food offerings and beer garden. Distance in km: 0.44
3 Marienplatz: ⭐ ⭐ The central square in Munich, known for the Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall, which reenacts two stories from the 16th century. Distance in km: 0.51
4 Deutsches Museum: The world's largest museum of science and technology, offering interactive exhibits across a wide range of fields. Distance in km: 0.6
5 Old Town: The historic heart of Munich, where medieval buildings blend with modern life. It's a place to wander, admire the architecture, and feel the city's pulse. Highlights include the Old Town Hall and St. Peter's Church. Distance in km: 0.67
6 Residenz Munich: The former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, offering a look into the luxury and opulence of their lifestyle. Distance in km: 0.77
7 Frauenkirche: A landmark cathedral in Munich, known for its distinctive domes and as a symbol of the city. Distance in km: 0.77
8 St. Michael's Church: A Jesuit church in Munich, known for its Renaissance architecture and the royal crypt of the Wittelsbach family. Distance in km: 0.96
9 Bavarian National Museum: A museum in Munich dedicated to the art, culture, and history of Bavaria from the early Middle Ages to the present. Distance in km: 1.11
10 Pinakothek der Moderne: A modern art museum in Munich, housing four major collections under one roof: art, works on paper, architecture, and design. Distance in km: 1.52
11 Alte Pinakothek: One of the oldest galleries in the world, housing a significant collection of Old Master paintings. Distance in km: 1.72
12 English Garden: ⭐ ⭐ One of the largest urban parks in the world, offering serene landscapes, cultural experiences, and a traditional beer garden. Distance in km: 3.68
13 Hellabrunn Zoo: A geo-zoo in Munich that is arranged by continents to show animals in naturalistic habitats. Distance in km: 4.74
14 BMW Museum: An automotive museum showcasing the history, vehicles, and technology of the BMW brand. Distance in km: 4.94
15 Olympiapark: Built for the 1972 Olympics, this park in Munich offers sports facilities, events, and panoramic views from the Olympic Tower. Distance in km: 5.01
16 Nymphenburg Palace: The summer residence of the former rulers of Bavaria, showcasing Baroque architecture and expansive gardens. Distance in km: 6.39
17 Allianz Arena: A state-of-the-art football stadium in Munich, home to FC Bayern Munich, known for its exterior of inflated ETFE plastic panels. Distance in km: 9.84
18 Schleissheim Palace: A complex of three palaces in a grand baroque park, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Bavarian royalty. Distance in km: 12.9
19 Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site: ⭐ A poignant reminder of the atrocities of World War II, offering a sobering look at history. Distance in km: 16.99

Day plans for your trip

Day plan 1: Experience the heart of Munich with a visit to Marienplatz, a climb up St. Peter's Church for city views, and a lively evening at the historic Hofbräuhaus.
Marienplatz
Central square of Munich, famous for its Glockenspiel show.
Average length of stay 1.5 hours
Viktualienmarkt
A vibrant market with local Bavarian specialties.
1 hour
Food tip: Try a Weisswurst with sweet mustard and a pretzel.
St. Peter's Church
Climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city.
1 hour
Hofbräuhaus München
Historic beer hall with a lively atmosphere.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Enjoy a coffee or try a local beer.
Residenz München
Former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs.
2 hours
Schneider Bräuhaus
Traditional Bavarian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Order the Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) with a local beer.
Day plan 2: Discover Munich's grandeur at Nymphenburg Palace, explore BMW Welt, and unwind in the iconic Olympiapark.
Nymphenburg Palace
A stunning baroque palace with beautiful gardens.
Average length of stay 2.5 hours
Café Palmenhaus
Charming café located in the palace gardens.
1 hour
Food tip: Try a slice of Apfelstrudel with your coffee.
BMW Welt
Explore the world of BMW with interactive exhibits.
1.5 hours
Olympiapark
Relax in the park or take a walk up the Olympic Hill.
2 hours
Augustiner-Keller
One of Munich's oldest beer gardens, perfect for a relaxing evening.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Enjoy a hearty Bavarian meal with a cold beer.
Day plan 3: Dive into science at the Deutsches Museum, admire baroque beauty at Asam Church, and savor Bavarian flavors at Wirtshaus in der Au.
Deutsches Museum
The world's largest museum of science and technology.
Average length of stay 3 hours
Gärtnerplatz
A lively square with a vibrant atmosphere.
1 hour
Food tip: Stop by a local café for a coffee and pastry.
Asam Church
A beautiful baroque church with intricate interior designs.
0.5 hours
Theresienwiese
The site of Oktoberfest, great for a leisurely walk.
1 hour
Wirtshaus in der Au
A traditional Bavarian tavern with a cozy atmosphere.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Try the Bavarian duck or roast pork.
Day plan 4: Stroll through the vast English Garden, enjoy art at Pinakothek der Moderne, and indulge in Bavarian cuisine at Ratskeller München.
English Garden
One of the largest urban parks in the world, perfect for a morning stroll.
Average length of stay 2 hours
Chinesischer Turm Beer Garden
A popular spot in the English Garden for relaxing and enjoying local food.
1 hour
Food tip: Enjoy a beer and a traditional Bavarian snack.
Pinakothek der Moderne
A modern art museum with a diverse collection.
2 hours
Café Frischhut
Famous for its delicious pastries and coffee.
0.5 hours
Food tip: Try the Schmalznudeln, a local pastry.
Alte Pinakothek
One of the oldest galleries in the world, featuring European masterpieces.
2 hours
Ratskeller München
Located in the basement of the New Town Hall, offering traditional Bavarian cuisine.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Sample the Bavarian platter with various local specialties.