The Ultimate Guide to Munich: The Best Things to Do

Munich is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Located in Bavaria, Germany, it is the third largest city in the country and home to around 1.5 million people. With its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and world-class museums, Munich has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a week-long holiday, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Munich. Here’s our ultimate guide to Munich and the best things to do when you visit.

A Brief History of Munich

Munich has been a major city since the Middle Ages. It was founded in 1158 and was home to the Wittelsbachs, a royal family that ruled over Bavaria for nearly seven centuries. The city was heavily damaged during the Thirty Years’ War, but quickly recovered and continued to grow and expand. During the 19th century, Munich became an important center for art and culture, drawing in many of Germany’s leading artists and architects. In the 20th century, Munich was heavily damaged during World War II, but it was quickly rebuilt and has since become one of Germany’s most influential cities.

What to Do in Munich

Munich has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed holiday, here are some of the best things to do in Munich.

Explore Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the heart of Munich and one of its most popular attractions. The square is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the neo-Gothic New Town Hall and the 16th-century Old Town Hall. Marienplatz is also home to the Glockenspiel, a mechanical clock that chimes every day at 11am and 12pm. The square is a popular spot for tourists, so be sure to explore it during your visit.

Visit Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace is one of Munich’s most impressive sites. The palace was built in the 17th century as a summer residence for the Wittelsbachs and is now open to the public. You can explore its stunning gardens, take a tour of its grand halls, and visit its impressive art collections.

Shop at Viktualienmarkt

Viktualienmarkt is a bustling outdoor market located in the heart of Munich. Here you’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to souvenirs and trinkets. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs or sample some delicious local food.

Take a Day Trip to Dachau

Dachau is a former Nazi concentration camp located just outside of Munich. Today, it’s a memorial site and museum that’s open to the public. A visit to Dachau is a humbling experience that will give you an intimate look at one of the darkest periods in human history.

Explore English Garden

English Garden is one of Europe’s largest parks and is located in the center of Munich. It’s a great place to go for a stroll or have a picnic on a sunny day. The park is also home to several beer gardens and cafes, which are popular spots for locals and tourists alike.

Climb St. Peter’s Church Tower

St. Peter’s Church is one of Munich’s most iconic landmarks. You can climb its tower for stunning views of the city below. The climb is challenging but well worth it for the impressive views from the top.

Visit Deutsches Museum

Deutsches Museum is Germany’s largest science museum and one of Munich’s top attractions. With over 28,000 exhibits, it’s an amazing place to learn about science and technology from around the world.

Attend an Oktoberfest Celebration

Oktoberfest is an annual celebration held in Munich every year in late September and early October. It’s one of the biggest festivals in Germany and attracts millions of visitors every year. During Oktoberfest you can sample local beer, eat traditional German food, and enjoy traditional music and dancing.

Popular Tours in Munich

If you’re looking for an easy way to get acquainted with Munich, consider taking a tour. Here are two popular tours that you can book when you visit:

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

A Hop-on Hop-off bus tour is one of the best ways to explore Munich. You’ll get an easy introduction to the city’s main sights as you hop on and off at designated stops throughout the city. This tour is great for first-time visitors who want to get an overview of Munich without too much walking. You’ll be able to get off at any stop and explore further at your own pace. Book a Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour here.

Munich Walking Tour

If you’d prefer something more active, consider taking a guided walking tour with an expert local guide who will show you all the hidden gems of Munich. This tour will take you from Marienplatz to Viktualienmarkt, as well as some of the city’s most iconic attractions like Nymphenburg Palace and St Peter’s Church. You’ll learn about Munich’s history, culture, and architecture as you go along, making this tour perfect for anyone who wants an in-depth look at the city. Book a Munich Walking Tour here.

Conclusion

Munich is an amazing city with plenty to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you want to explore its vibrant streets or take a day trip out into the Bavarian countryside, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful German city. We hope our guide has given you some ideas on what to do during your visit – happy travels!