Things to see and do in Munich

Nymphenburg Palace

A magnificent Baroque retreat for Bavarian royalty, this sprawling summer residence is surrounded by serene lakes and elegant parklands. Wander through the lavishly decorated pavilions and the opulent Gallery of Beauties, commissioned by King Ludwig I. It’s a breathtaking escape into the grandeur of Munich's regal past.

English Garden (Englischer Garten)

One of the largest urban parks in the world, the English Garden is a sprawling green oasis where locals come to unwind. Stroll past the iconic Chinese Tower, relax in a shaded, lively beer garden, or watch daredevil surfers ride the continuous standing wave on the Eisbach river. It perfectly captures Munich's laid-back, outdoor-loving spirit.

Munich Residenz

The opulent former palace of the Wittelsbach monarchs, this massive complex in the city center is a treasure trove of art and architecture. Walk through the dazzling, frescoed Antiquarium hall and marvel at the royal jewels in the Treasury. Every room offers a fascinating glimpse into centuries of Bavarian power and wealth.

Hofbräuhaus

The world's most famous and festive beer hall, the Hofbräuhaus is an essential Munich experience. Grab a seat at a long wooden table under painted vaulted ceilings, order a massive liter of traditional Bavarian beer, and listen to the lively oompah band. It is a joyful, noisy celebration of local culture and Gemütlichkeit (coziness).

Viktualienmarkt

A vibrant daily food market packed with local flavors, this sprawling outdoor bazaar is a feast for the senses. Meander through stalls overflowing with fresh produce, exotic spices, artisan cheeses, and warm, salty pretzels. Grab a quick snack or sit down in the central beer garden to enjoy the lively, authentic atmosphere.

St. Peter's Church (Alter Peter)

Munich's oldest parish church stands proudly just off Marienplatz, hiding a spectacularly ornate interior. The real highlight, however, is the climb up its narrow, winding tower. Once at the top, you are rewarded with an unbeatable, panoramic view of the red rooftops below and, on a clear day, the snow-capped Alps in the distance.

Deutsches Museum

Situated on a small island in the Isar River, this is the world’s largest museum of science and technology. Get lost in vast halls dedicated to everything from early aviation and maritime navigation to space exploration and physics. It is a massive, interactive wonderland that fascinates visitors of all ages.

Olympiapark

Built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, this park is celebrated for the striking, tent-like glass canopies that cover its main stadiums. Today, it’s a beautifully landscaped area perfect for a leisurely walk, a boat ride on the lake, or climbing the Olympic Tower for sweeping views. It represents a bold, modern chapter in Munich's architectural history.

Alte Pinakothek

A sanctuary for art lovers, this world-class gallery houses one of the most significant collections of Old Master paintings in the world. Wander through spacious, naturally lit halls to admire timeless European masterpieces by Rubens, Dürer, and Rembrandt. It is a quiet, contemplative space that celebrates centuries of artistic genius.

BMW Museum & Welt

A sleek, futuristic celebration of automotive history, this striking complex sits just across from Olympiapark. Explore the iconic "four-cylinder" building to trace the evolution of BMW’s engineering, then head to the stunning, glass-paneled BMW Welt to see the latest cutting-edge designs. It’s a must-visit for design enthusiasts and car lovers alike.

Asam Church (Asamkirche)

Tucked away on a busy shopping street, this relatively small church is a hidden masterpiece of breathtaking late-Baroque design. Step inside to be instantly overwhelmed by intricate frescoes, gilded statues, and dramatic lighting that creates a theatrical, almost mystical atmosphere. It is a stunning, intimate jewel box of a church.