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Author: Barry Pickard
Munich, the capital of Bavaria state, is a city with a rich history and a diverse culture. From its stunning architecture to its world-renowned festivals and events, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Munich is also known for its lively beer halls and gardens, where visitors can enjoy traditional Bavarian cuisine and drink.
The city has a long and interesting history, with roots dating back to the Middle Ages. Today, Munich is a thriving metropolis with a thriving arts and music scene, as well as a wide range of museums and historic locations.
Due to the amount of interesting and exciting attractions in Munich, I have decided to split this post over two parts. I hope you will agree that an extended focus on Munich is fully justified.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if these top attractions to visit in Munich appeal to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the highlights of Munich, or indeed, a general tour of the beautiful state of Bavaria.
It is difficult to create a list of the best Munich attractions to visit and is sure to be a little controversial with some, but here's the start of my top twenty-five list.
Top Attractions to Visit in Munich
25. Odeonsplatz
Odeonsplatz is a square in the centre of Munich and is known for its historical and cultural significance. It is the site of the famous Feldherrnhalle, a monument built in honour of the Bavarian Army, which was the scene of Adolf Hitler’s failed coup attempt in 1923. Approximately two thousand Nazis marched on the Feldherrnhalle, but were confronted by a police cordon, which resulted in the deaths of 16 Nazi Party members and four police officers, as well as the arrest of Hitler himself.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: The square is also home to the famous Odeon, a neoclassical concert hall built in the 19th century. The square is surrounded by a number of other historical buildings, including the Hofgarten, the Bavarian State Library, and the National Theater.
24. The beer halls of Munich
Munich, and Bavaria in general, is famous for its beer halls, or Bräuhauser. There are several located throughout the city, and we had some fantastic beers and food at the bustling Schneider Bräuhaus Munchen, which is handily located just off the Marienplatz.
Other Bräuhauser that are on our bucket list is Hofbräuhaus, probably the most well-known beer hall in Munich; Augustiner Keller, which is known for its cozy atmosphere and large beer garden; Löwenbräukeller, which is located in the Haidhausen neighbourhood; and Paulaner Brahaus, which is renowned for its large, modern facilities.
Overall, a visit to one or more of these beer halls offers an exciting taste of Bavarian and beer culture first-hand. They're also a great way to meet locals and learn more about the city's rich history and traditions.
23. St. Peter's Church
Situated just off the Marienplatz, St. Peter's Church is a stunning example of Bavarian Baroque architecture and is known for its ornate interior, which includes a high altar made of marble and gold, as well as a number of other impressive works of art. The church is also home to the remains of Saint Boniface, a missionary and patron saint of Germany, which makes it a popular destination for pilgrims.
22. State Collections of Antiquities
The State Collections of Antiquities houses a wide range of ancient artifacts from various civilizations and cultures. The collection includes Greek and Roman sculptures, Egyptian and Etruscan art, and medieval and Renaissance objects, making it a fascinating attraction for anyone interested in the history and art of these periods. The museum's beautiful and well-preserved displays and exhibits make it a must-see if you are around the Konigsplatz area.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: You can get a joint ticket for the State Collections of Antiquities and the Glyptothek, which is a nice little saving.
21. Jewish Museum Munich
The Jewish Museum was created with the aim of putting the spotlight on the rich history, art and culture of Judaism, right through to present day. Its permanent exhibition “Stimmen_Orte_Zeiten” (“Voices_Places_Times”) focuses on Jewish history and culture in Munich. Temporary exhibitions on two further floors highlight different aspects of Jewish culture.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: The Coucou Food Market cafe, within the museum, is an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee and piece of cake after viewing the exhibitions.
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20. Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche was built in the 15th and 16th centuries and is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Germany. It was heavily damaged during World War II but was rebuilt and re-consecrated in the 1950s. The cathedral is a symbol of the city and famous for its towering spires and grand interior.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Inside the cathedral, visitors can see numerous works of art and religious artifacts, including the tomb of Duke Wilhelm V and the "Golden Rose," a golden rose made of gold, pearls, and precious stones that was presented to the cathedral by Pope Leo X in 1517.
19. Munich Museum of Egyptian Art
Munich’s Egyptian Museum covers 5,000 years of Ancient Egyptian art and culture. Opened in 2013, the museum’s exhibition space is completely underground, so visitors get a sense of what it was like to be in an Egyptian temple or royal tomb.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: The museum has a very helpful continuous line on the floor which guides you through the exhibition and makes sure that you don’t miss anything. Wish more museums had this!
18. Lenbachhaus
The Lenbachhaus art gallery is housed in the historic villa that once belonged to master painter Franz von Lenbach and one of the most beautiful spots in Munich. Since Gabriele Münter made his generous donation back in 1957, the museum has been home to the world’s largest collection of art by the Blue Rider movement, including pieces by Wassily Kandinsky, Gabriele Münter, Franz Marc and many more. Visitors therefore have the chance to marvel at iconic paintings like “Blaue Pferd” (“Blue Horse”).
Tailor-Made Top Tip: If art publications are of interest to you, make sure to visit the bookshop at Lenbachhaus, which has a great selection of titles.
17. Glyptothek
The Glyptothek is ideal for any fan of sculptures from the antique period. The majority of the exhibits come from the collection belonging to King Ludwig I, whose passion for Antique art was sparked while he was still the Crown Prince, especially after a trip to Italy in 1804/05. The impressive structure, with its Greek-style temple façade, Ionic columns and statues housed in the alcoves on the outer façade, gives visitors the chance to see an outstanding collection of Greek and Roman marble statues.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Highlights include a piece known as the Trunkene Alte (Old Drunkard) and the Barberini Faun.
16. Bürgersaalkirche
The Bürgersaalkirche is the prayer and meeting room of the Marian Men Congregation “Annunciation”. This handsome building, which features a unique combination of Baroque and Neoclassical architectural styles, was designed by Giovanni Antonio Viscardi and built in 1710. The spacious interiors adorned with frescoes and ornate decorations make this a worthwhile itinerary stop in order to appreciate Munich’s beautiful architecture and history.
15. Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art (MUCA)
At MUCA, the young art form of urban and street art has been brought from the street to the museum for the first time. The black and white facade of the museum was designed by renowned street artist Stohead and is a work of art in itself. Inside, an extraordinary collection of works by national and international artists such as Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Vhils und Herakut await visitors.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Check out the toilets…they are pretty cool!
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14. Victuals Market (Viktualienmarkt)
Victuals Market used to be a farmers’ market, but these days, it attracts epicures and foodies, who find everything they could dream of and more – from traditional Bavarian delicacies to more exotic produce. In 1807, King Max I Joseph commanded that the area between Heiliggeist Church and Frauenstrasse be used to sell produce. By the years 1823 to 1829, the market was already in need of additional space. A number of other features were also added later down the line, like a hall for selling tripe, pavilions for fruit sellers and a separate hall for selling fish caught from the North Sea. By 1890, the Viktualienmarkt had reached the size of the present-day market.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: The Eataly Munich food market can be found on the south west edge of the Victuals Market and provides even more opportunity to enjoy the very best food.
13. NS-Dokumentationszentrum Muenchen
The NS-Dokumentationszentrum Muenchen is housed in the former headquarters of the National Socialist German Worker’s Party on Königsplatz. The permanent exhibition “Munich and National Socialism” stretches over four floors and contains large-scale images, documents, and media installations.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Take a seat in the pleasant area outside the main entrance to the museum and take note of the imposing building neighbouring this plaza – this is commonly known as the Führer Building (Führerbau) and was where the Munich Agreement was signed by Hitler and Neville Chamberlain.
12. Allianz Arena Museum & Tour
The Allianz Arena is home to the mighty Bayern Munich football club and is a stunning stadium located to the northeast of the city. The arena boasts of an excellent and informative museum, which guides you through the trophy laden history of this iconic club.
Highlights include the Hall of Fame, where you can admire a host of Bayern legends; Beckenbauer’s kit which he wore during their promotion to the topflight in 1965; the Via Triumphalis, which exhibits their trophies; and a section on the treble winning year of 2013, when they won the Bundesliga, DFB Cup and Champions League trophies.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Book a tour of the stadium for a fascinating behind the scenes exploration. You will also get free entry to the museum with your ticket.
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11. Pinakothek der Moderne
The Pinakothek der Moderne is one of Europe’s largest venues for modern and contemporary art, architecture and design. One ticket gives you entrance to the four museums which are under the same roof. Sammlung Moderne Kunst (Collection of Modern Art), the Neue Sammlung (New Collection), the Architekturmuseum (the Museum of Architecture) and the Staatliche Graphische Sammlung (State Collection of Graphic Design) are all fascinating in their own ways.
All in all, the complex’s 12,000 square metre space takes visitors on a comprehensive journey through different forms of art in the 20th and 21st centuries. Each of the museums has its own lighting concept to provide the perfect setting for the various exhibitions.
Tailor-Made Top Tip: Pinakothek der Moderne is surrounded by other excellent museums. A two-minute walk will take you to the Alte Pinakothek, Munich Museum of Egyptian Art, the Mineralogical Museum, and the Museum Brandhorst.
Read our next blog post to find out which attractions are in our top ten.
Conclusion
Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun and exciting destination, Munich has something for you. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that Munich is a top destination for travellers from all over the world. So why not add this amazing city to your travel bucket list and start planning your trip today?
Accommodation Suggestions
I decided to stay on the periphery of Munich, partly because I had the use of a rental car and partly because I explored many of Bavaria's other attractions, not just amazing sites in the city centre. My time at the Amedia Hotel & Suites in Dachau was perfect for my needs, with great service and stylish, compact rooms.
However, if you are looking for a more central hotel in Munich, there is a wide range to choose from, including the Premier Inn München City Zentrum, Hotel Schlicker, and Leonardo Hotel München City Center.
Related Blog Posts
If you would like more information on Bavaria, please view the Tailor-Made Itineraries posts below:
Comment below and let us know what your favourite attraction in Munich is.
Don’t forget that Tailor-Made Itineraries delights in creating bespoke self-guided tours. So, if these top attractions to visit in Munich appeal to you, reach out to me by email. I would be more than happy to design a self-guided tour around your requirements incorporating the highlights of Munich, or indeed, a general tour of the beautiful state of Bavaria.
Join me next time on my adventures when I continue our countdown of Munich’s top attractions, listing the top ten. Tailor-Made Itineraries posts every two weeks, and you can subscribe to the latest blog and newsletter here. Until then, happy reading and safe travels.
Barry
Contact Me: tailoritineraries@gmail.com
Tailor-Made Itineraries creates one-of-a-kind bespoke self-guided travel itineraries for adventurous and curious travellers.
These self-guided tours deliver a personalised and exciting holiday experience that takes the effort out of trip planning.
