Things to do in Munich

With so many things to do in Munich, it’s a good idea to take the time to plan your itinerary. Attractions include historical sights, cathedrals, castles and concert halls, as well as breathtaking natural scenery. The shopping in Munich covers every style, from designer labels to vintage treasures and markets. Rich in art and culture, Munich is a wonderful city to explore at any time of the year.

Schloss Nymphenburg

The summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs, Schloss Nymphenburg, or the Nymphenburg Palace, is one of the largest royal palaces in Europe. Within the palace grounds you'll find the Museum of Man and Nature (Museum Mensch und Natur), the Porcelain Museum, and 299ha of garden. Take a stroll through the grounds and see sculptures, streams, and landscaped gardens.

Munich - Nymphenburg

Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche is Munich's largest church, with room for up to 20,000 people, and is the city's most famous landmark. Built in a distinct baroque style, the cathedral is beautifully positioned within Munich's Old Town, and its impressive domed towers can be seen far and wide from across the city. It's a popular tourist attraction that is well worth visiting.

Munich - Frauenkirche

New Town Hall and Glockenspiel

The Neo-Gothic New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) offers amazing views across the city. The 85m-high tower houses an observation deck, from which you can see as far as the Alps. The world-famous Glockenspiel Munich, part of Town Hall, springs to life several times per day with figurines from history representing stories of Munich.

Munich - Town Hall

Schleissheim Palace

Treat yourself to a tour fit for a king at Schleissheim Palace. The courtyard gardens have had many design features preserved, with stunning water features nestled among colourful garden beds. As if the castle itself is not beautiful enough, you can also browse works from the Bavarian State Painting Collections, which are housed within the castle.

Linderhof Palace

The beautiful grounds of Linderhof Palace can be found in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. It was the only castle built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria that was finished when he was still alive – and his favourite. The oval dining room and entrance hall are stunning, regal in design and furnishings. The grounds are filled with eclectic buildings, a 30 metre tall fountain, and gorgeous grotto.

Munich - Linderhof Palace

Neuschwanstein Castle

One of the most-visited castles in Europe, with some days attracting 10,000 visitors, Neuschwanstein Castle is a breathtaking sight. Built on the edge of a cliff, the castle of King Ludwig II is like something out of a fairytale. Marvel at the beautiful architecture, the spectacular location, and the luxurious furnishings. Just over an hour and a half's drive from Munich, it's well worth a day trip.

Munich - Neuschwanstein

Residenzmuseum

The largest museum in Munich, Residenzmuseum is found in the main palace of Bavarian rulers. Impressive and beautifully styled, a highlight of the museum is the Antiquarium, which is filled with statues and artworks featuring some of the most beautiful castles of Bavaria. Visitors to the Residenz can see stylings of Renaissance, Baroque, Neo-Classicist, and Rococo.

Munich - Residenz Museum

Deutsches Museum

The largest museum of technology in the world, the Deutsches Museum in Munich is a must-see for lovers of technology and development. Filled with rare German aircraft, scientific demonstrations and almost every type of transport you can imagine, this museum is equally impressive and interesting. Take a guided tour or wander each department for yourself.

BMW Museum Munich

With permanent exhibitions dating back 90 years of history, the BMW Museum in Munich will have any car lover hooked. Explore seven different exhibition sections, from roadsters to art cars, or head over to the ‘Museum Bowl'. This wing of the museum houses temporary exhibitions, ensuring there's always something new to take in.

Alte Pinakothek

Constructed in 1836, Alte Pinakothek is designed with a castle appearance in mind. Home to a collection of paintings spanning the 14th through to the 18th Century, it's one of the oldest art galleries in the world. Here you can see works by artists such as Rembrandt, da Vinci, Raphael, and Albrecht Altdorfer.

Munchner Stadtmuseum

Munchner Stadtmuseum, or Munich City Museum, is home to many collections of historical value. Here you can learn everything you need to know about Munich's history, through almost every medium you can imagine. Permanent exhibitions include sculpture, portraits, furnishings, photographs and musical instruments, as well as examples of traditional marionette theatre.