Must-Visit Places in Munich

Munich is a city brimming with history, culture, and breathtaking sights. It is the third largest city in Germany, home to 1.5 million people, and the capital of Bavaria. It offers something for everyone, from the beer gardens to the modern art galleries, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

History of Munich

Munich was founded in 1158 and was originally a fishing village. In the early 1300s it was made a city and it quickly flourished, becoming a center of trade and art. During the 18th century, Munich was under the rule of the House of Wittelsbach and the city experienced an economic and cultural boom. The city was home to many famous musicians and composers such as Mozart and Ludwig von Beethoven. It was also home to famous artists such as Albrecht Duerer and Peter Paul Rubens.

The 19th century saw the Industrial Revolution take hold in Munich and the city became a center of industry. In 1871, Bavaria became part of the German Empire and Munich became the capital of Bavaria. The city continued to grow throughout the 20th century and by the end of World War II, it had become one of Europe’s most important cities. Today, Munich is a vibrant cultural center, home to world-famous attractions and renowned festivals.

Must-Visit Places in Munich

Munich is filled with fascinating places to visit, from its historical churches to its bustling city streets. Here are some of the must-visit places in Munich that you should not miss out on:

Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the heart of Munich and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. It is located in the center of Munich’s old town and it has been a popular meeting place since the Middle Ages. The square is home to several historic buildings, including the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), which is known for its magnificent glockenspiel clock tower. Marienplatz is a great place to experience traditional Bavarian culture, with its street performers, quaint cafes, and lively atmosphere.

English Garden

The English Garden is one of the largest urban parks in Europe and it is located in the center of Munich. This huge park spans an area of 3.7 square kilometers and it contains sprawling meadows, tranquil lakes, and dense forests. The park is home to several attractions such as the Chinese Tower beer garden, Monopteros temple, Eisbach surf wave, and Haus der Kunst art museum. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.

Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) is a stunning example of late Gothic architecture and it is one of Munich’s most recognizable landmarks. It was built in 1468 and it stands at a height of 99 meters (325 feet). The church is open to visitors every day and admission is free. Visitors can climb up to the top of the south tower for breathtaking views of the city.

BMW Museum

The BMW Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts visiting Munich. This modern museum showcases a wide range of BMW models from different eras. It also has interactive exhibits that explain the history and evolution of BMW cars. The museum also offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the company’s history and its fascinating production process.

Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is one of the world’s largest science museums and it showcases a wide range of scientific artifacts from different eras. It contains over 40,000 exhibits related to science and technology, including an impressive collection of aircrafts, locomotives, ships, and automobiles. It is a great place to learn about science and technology in an interesting way.

Olympiapark

The Olympic Park was built for the 1972 Olympic Games and it spans an area of 226 acres (91 hectares). It contains several sporting arenas, including the Olympic Stadium, Olympic Hall, Olympic Swimming Pool, and Olympic Tower which offer fantastic views over Munich. The park also has several restaurants, bars, and shops that make it great for a day out with family or friends.

Popular Tours in Munich

Munich offers many incredible tours that will give you an in-depth look at this fascinating city. Here are two popular tours that you should consider booking during your stay:

Bavarian Beer Tour

The Bavarian Beer Tour is a great way to experience some of Munich’s famous beers and learn about their history. You will visit some of Munich’s oldest beer gardens where you can sample traditional Bavarian beers such as Helles, Dunkel, Weissbier, and more. You will also learn about the brewing process behind these beers from professional brewers who will explain every step in detail. At the end of the tour, you can enjoy some traditional Bavarian snacks such as pretzels and sausages while admiring beautiful views over Munich’s city skyline. Book a Bavarian Beer Tour here.

Munich City Walking Tour

The Munich City Walking Tour is a great way to explore this beautiful city on foot. You will visit some of Munich’s most iconic landmarks such as Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, Alter Peter Church, and more. You will also get to explore some hidden gems such as Viktualienmarkt (food market) and see how locals live their everyday life. The tour also includes stops at popular beer gardens where you can sample some local beer and soak up the atmosphere. Book a Munich City Walking Tour here.

Conclusion

Munich is a vibrant city that offers something for everyone. From its historical churches to its bustling beer gardens, there are plenty of must-visit places in this beautiful city that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you want to experience traditional Bavarian culture or explore some hidden gems around town, there are plenty of activities and tours that will give you an in-depth look at this fascinating city.