Munich walking tour & city guide
Bavarian beer gardens, palaces and the Alps on the horizon.
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Munich, the capital of Bavaria, combines grand royal architecture with a relaxed love of good food, beer and the outdoors. On clear days the Alps are visible from the city's towers, and its parks and beer gardens fill with locals as soon as the sun comes out.
Marienplatz and the old town
Marienplatz is the heart of Munich, dominated by the neo-gothic New Town Hall. Its Glockenspiel comes to life several times a day, with figures dancing and jousting to music. The twin onion domes of the Frauenkirche, the city's cathedral, are Munich's most recognizable landmark.
Just south of Marienplatz, the Viktualienmarkt is a lively open-air food market with a maypole and a beer garden. Nearby, the famous Hofbräuhaus has served beer since the 16th century, with brass bands and long wooden tables.
Palaces and parks
The Residenz, the former royal palace of the Wittelsbach family, is one of the largest palace complexes in Europe, with lavish rooms and a treasury. To the west, Nymphenburg Palace is a summer residence with beautiful gardens.
The English Garden is bigger than New York's Central Park. At its southern edge, surfers ride a standing wave on the Eisbach stream all year round, and the Chinese Tower beer garden is one of the most popular in the city. The Olympic Park, built for the 1972 Games, is next to the BMW Welt and Museum.
Visiting tips
Oktoberfest, which actually begins in September, is the world's largest beer festival, so book accommodation early if you plan to visit then. Neuschwanstein Castle, Salzburg and the lakes of Bavaria are all popular day trips.
Top sights in Munich
- 1
Marienplatz
The main square with the Glockenspiel.
- 2
Frauenkirche
The cathedral with twin onion domes.
- 3
Residenz
The vast former royal palace.
- 4
English Garden
A huge park with river surfers and beer gardens.
- 5
Nymphenburg Palace
A baroque summer palace and gardens.
- 6
Olympic Park and BMW Welt
Modern architecture and car culture.
Food markets & where to eat in Munich
Viktualienmarkt
Munich's famous open-air food market.
Traditional beer halls
Big halls with Bavarian food and live music.
Beer gardens
Shaded gardens where you can even bring your own food.
Schwabing
A lively student district with cafés and bars.
Food to try in Munich
Weisswurst
White veal sausage, traditionally eaten before noon with sweet mustard.
Pretzel (Brezn)
A giant soft pretzel.
Schweinshaxe
Roasted pork knuckle with crispy skin.
Obatzda
A spiced cheese spread served in beer gardens.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Munich
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in MunichCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Munich.
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