How to Spend the Perfect City Break in Munich
My Munich city break was love at first sight. Filled with gorgeous, impressive architecture, oozing with rich history, and offering an abundance of Bavarian beer, it automatically felt like home. It has quickly become one of my favourite cities. The laid-back lifestyle, outstanding museums and great architecture make it the perfect destination for culture buffs.
While Munich is famous for Oktoberfest, the legendary beer festival on many people’s bucket lists, there is so much more to discover at any time of year. If you’re wondering whether to add a Munich city break to your itinerary, my answer is absolutely. Here are my top picks for the best things for first-timers in Munich.
A quick intro to the Bavarian capital
Munich (München in German) is the capital of the state of Bavaria and Germany’s third-largest city after Berlin and Hamburg. If you’re curious, Munich derives from the medieval German word “Munichen,” meaning “home of the monks.” For almost a century, those same monks ran a monastery and brewed beer in what is now Munich’s Old Town.
Bavaria, a state in southern Germany, has been home to the Celts, Romans, and many different tribes over the centuries. In 1255, the Wittelsbachs became the monarchs of Bavaria and ruled here until 1918. Many Wittelsbachs left a mark on Munich and Bavaria, including Ludwig I. With a team of architects, Ludwig planned out and designed modern Munich, giving it its characteristic appearance.
Munich’s growth and development took off during the 19th century. It was one of Europe’s culturally significant cities, known for its musical and theatre scene. Ludwig II, the man behind the Neuschwanstein Castle, championed the famous composer Richard Wagner, adding to Munich’s allure.
The Free State Of Bavaria
The end of WWI marked the end of Wittelsbach’s rule. The new Free State of Bavaria attracted many extremists, eventually becoming home to the Nazi Party. It was in Munich that Hitler addressed the crowds and held his meetings, including the infamous Beer Hall Putsch. As much as it was the hotbed of the Nazi movement, there was a passive Bavarian resistance to the regime. Unfortunately, it was not enough to change history.
During WWII, Munich was heavily damaged by bombing raids. After the war, Munich’s residents chose to rebuild the city based on the old building plans. Walking around today, you wouldn’t know the extent of the damage. The city is beautiful and strongly reflects Bavarian traditions. If you love architecture, you’ll love a Munich city break.
Munich and the beer culture in Bavaria
As the home of Oktoberfest, Munich is a place where you can fully embrace the beer culture. Beer, after all, was proclaimed as “liquid bread” in the Bavarian constitution. Today, the strict rules of beer-making follow the “Reinheitsgebot” – a Bavarian decree from 1516 that regulates beer-making ingredients. With over 4,000 Bavarian beer brands and about 40 types of beer, there is plenty to choose from for everyone.
Beer halls and beer gardens are a staple of Bavarian culture, from the traditional Bavarian oompah bands and live music to whip-cracking performers and giant beer steins. It’s where you can get your fill of giant pretzels, ubiquitous sausages and pork knuckles. You can even score your own Stein locker at the local beer hall. Try white sausages, known as Weisswurst, a Munich specialty often served with sweet mustard and freshly baked pretzels before noon.
Beer halls and beer gardens for your Munich city break
Visiting a beer hall during your Munich city break is like a rite of passage. You don’t have to be a beer lover to visit, but it does help. Here are some of the big ones you should add to your list.
- Hofbräuhaus: A must when in Munich. Established as the Royal Brewery of the Kingdom of Bavaria in 1589, Hofbräuhaus has been a staple of Munich’s history. Here, you’ll find all the traditional elements of Bavaria. It’s also known as the most famous beer hall in Munich.
- Augustinerkeller: This establishment has been tapping Edelstoff beer in wooden barrels since 1812. It has all the staples, including vaulted ceilings, wooden benches, chandeliers and old paintings. It’s also great for people-watching.
- Biergarten Viktualienmarkt: A lovely beer garden in the city centre of Munich. Great for people-watching and checking out the nearby market stalls.
- Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower): Located in the English Gardens, this is a great place to enjoy the sunshine and surrounding park while enjoying traditional Bavarian brews accompanied by Chinese food.
- Löwenbräukeller: Not only does Löwenbräukeller host one of Oktoberfest’s most popular tents, but it also was the first beer hall with napkins and tablecloths. It must have been quite the talk back in 1883.
- Paulaner Bräuhaus: Started by two brothers in 1889, the beer here is brewed in shiny copper tanks and served with traditional and seasonal dishes.
How to spend your Munich city break
With so much history and culture, Munich is a great place to explore on a city break or as a base for day trips. One of the best ways to get an introduction to Munich is with a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour. This is a great way to discover major landmarks and attractions. You also get an overview from the official tour guide on where things are and what they are. On a clear, sunny day, you can sit on the bus’s upper level with the whole city at your fingertips.
Enjoy a stroll through the Englischer Garten
The Englischer Garten (English Garden) was designed to emulate the style of English landscapes popular at the time. What started as swampy terrain transformed into a massive public park bigger than Central Park in New York.
The sprawling English Garden, with its open spaces, tree groves and walkways, is popular with locals and visitors. It’s a favoured spot for sunbathers (sometimes in the nude) and all outdoor lovers. Wander the shaded paths, watch the river surfers at Eisbachwelle, and relax with a beer and white sausages at the Chinesischer Turm beer garden.
Watch the surfers at Eisbachwelle
The one thing I definitely didn’t expect to see in Munich was river surfing. You will likely see several onlookers at the Englischer Garten entrance, especially during nice weather. That’s where surfers tackle the waves of river Eisbach. The river is man-made, and the wave is created by a stone step. It’s fascinating to watch people in wetsuits zipping from one side of the river to the other. This Eisbach wave is an activity I recommend if you have surfing experience. Otherwise, you’re better off enjoying the show from the sidelines.
Visit Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus
Like probably every other person who comes here, I love the area around Marienplatz. The main square of the Old Town (Altstadt) is where the action is, and you’re likely to end up here during your Munich city break a few times. Since the 12th century, Marienplatz has been the heart of Munich and the center of its historical events. This is also where the annual Christmas Market takes place.
The Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) is the star of the Marienplatz, and it absolutely took my breath away. Although it was built between 1867 and 1909, it looks like something out of a Gothic novel. It looks one way when it’s sunny, transforms at night and takes your breath away when dusted with snow.
It’s hard to imagine that 24 houses were demolished to make space for this exquisite structure with six courtyards. The outside is decorated with sculptures from Bavarian history and legends. If that wasn’t enough, there is a massive clock tower that chimes its 43 bells while little bronze figurines dance out scenes from a wedding, honouring Duke Wilhelm V and his bride.
Marvel at the ornate details of Asamkirche
Step inside this small yet dazzling Baroque church built by the Asam brothers. It’s one of the most unique hidden gems in the city. The Asam Church started as a private chapel for the brothers. They built the church in the mid-18th century in the Baroque style. The church, officially named after St. Johann Nepomuk, integrates itself between rows of houses. Lavishly decorated inside, the outside has its unique feature: two massive rocks at the base of the columns by the church’s entrance. This small church is a hidden gem with a unique ambience.
Admire the Frauenkirche’s iconic towers
One of the largest Gothic buildings in southern Germany, the Frauenkirche’s iconic towers have been a symbol of Munich since 1525. The church (Cathedral of Our Dear Lady) was completed in 1488, but the domes capping the towers took another 37 years to complete. There is a law that says no building can obscure the view of the church. That means the views of the city and the Alps from the tower are spectacular.
Climb the tower at St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)
A church has stood in this spot since the 11th century. The church you see today has undergone reconstructions and extensions over the centuries, leaving it a fusion of styles. Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo elements blend to create the church we see today.
You can climb the 299 steps for great city views, which is easier than I imagined. The views are amazing and worth the climb. It’s one of the best places to get a panoramic view of Munich’s rooftops.
Visit the Viktualienmarkt for lunch
If you’re strolling around the Old Town, you’ll find your way to the Viktualienmarkt. As Munich’s most famous food market, this is a lively place. Grab a bite from a market stall, try Bavarian cheeses or pick up a picnic to enjoy in one of Munich’s many green spaces.
You can do some shopping and people-watching if you prefer to sit down to enjoy a beer with a snack. You’ll find an abundance of fresh produce, including fresh fruits and local specialties. It’s a great option for foodies and those looking to experience the local culinary scene.
Tour the BMW Museum and BMW Welt
The BMW Museum is definitely a huge draw for car lovers. But I think even non-car lovers will be impressed by the sleek architecture and exhibits at this tribute to German engineering. The futuristic-looking building houses BMW’s history as well as car parts and models.
If you’re into cars, especially BMWs, this should be on your list of Munich attractions. Next door, you’ll find the BMW Welt, a multi-functional customer experience and exhibition facility of the BMW Group. Who knows? You might return from your Munich city break with a shiny new toy.
Explore Nymphenburg Palace and its beautiful gardens
To glimpse what a summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs looked like, head over to Nymphenburg. I must say, the Wittelsbachs had an eye for architecture. This Baroque palace is a stunner, and the surrounding beautiful gardens are like icing on the cake. It’s a must-see stop during your Munich city break.
Prince Ferdinand Maria built the castle in 1664 as a gift to his wife for giving birth to a long-awaited heir. It must have been some wait. The heir, Max Emanuel, played a significant role in the future expansions of the palace, as did many other Wittelsbachs. You can definitely spend a better part of the day. Don’t miss the water features and the gardens.
Walk through Odeonsplatz to Siegestor
The Odeonsplatz was the brainchild of Ludwig I. He envisioned the square as a grand entrance into Munich, marking the city’s main thoroughfare, the Ludwigstraße. Flanked by Neo-Classical buildings, Ludwigstraße is a feast for the eyes in itself. Today, Ludwig sits atop his horse, facing the street.
As you pass the monument, you’ll see the Feldherrnhalle, a loggia that seems like something straight out of Florence. Created as a focal point for Odeonsplatz, the loggia honours Bavarian heroes. Walking along the Ludwigstraße, you’ll come across Siegestor – a triumphal arch with three grand arches. Commissioned by King Ludwig I, as was the day’s fashion, the arch was completed in 1850 and is modelled on the Arch of Constantine in Rome.
Visit one of Munich’s many museums
There are many great museums in Munich. If you’re here for a short city break, here are a few to add to your list. For a more extensive list, check out my post on the museums and galleries in Munich.
- Alte Pinakothek: Designed in the Italian Renaissance style, the Alte Pinakothek was opened in 1836 by Ludwig I. It is one of the world’s most famous art museums, with an impressive art collection by 14th-18th century masters. Many of the works came from the Wittelsbach family collection, started by Duke Wilhelm IV in the 1500s.
- Bavarian National Museum: Founded by King Maximilian II in 1855, this is one of Europe’s premier institutions for art and cultural history. Located on the elegant Prinzregentenstraße, the museum was originally created to house the Wittelsbach Collection. Today, it boasts an extensive array of artifacts spanning centuries, showcasing Bavaria’s rich cultural heritage.
- Deutsches Museum: This world-renowned technology museum has 269,000 sq ft (25,000 m2) of space with over 30 exhibitions, including over 100,000 objects from the fields of science and technology. The museum is a great place for anyone interested in the wonders of science and engineering.
- Glyptothek Museum: As Munich’s oldest public museum, founded by Bavarian King Ludwig I in 1830, Glyptothek is dedicated to ancient sculptures. Located in Königsplatz, a neoclassical square in the city centre, the museum’s collection spans several centuries, featuring works from Archaic Greece to the Roman Empire.
- Munich Residenz: Once the official residence of the Wittelsbach monarchs, the Munich Residenz is a massive palace comprising 10 courtyards and 130 rooms. This opulently decorated complex dates back to the 14th century, with many additions over the centuries. As the largest city palace in Germany, it’s a true testament to the wealth and power of Bavaria’s former rulers.
Catch the sunset from the Olympic Tower
The Olympic Park was built for the 1972 Olympic Games and is now a recreational area and events venue. You can visit the Olympic Stadium, climb the Olympic Tower for epic 360° views, or enjoy various sports activities. The park’s unique architecture and landscaping make it a perfect place for a leisurely day out.
How to get to Munich
Getting to Munich for a short trip or city break in Munich is easy. The city is served by Munich Airport (Franz Josef Strauss International Airport), one of Europe’s busiest and best-connected airports. From here, it’s a quick 40-minute ride on the S-Bahn (S1 or S8) to the city centre, where most of the action takes place.
If you’re already in Europe, high-speed trains and long-distance buses make city breaks in Munich a breeze. Munich’s central location also makes it a great jumping-off point for exploring other parts of Bavaria or even neighbouring countries like Austria or Switzerland. Whether you fly in or arrive by rail, the excellent public transport system will have you zipping around the city in no time.
Best time to visit Munich
Munich is a year-round destination. When deciding on the best time for a Munich city break, consider what you want to see and experience.
- Late spring (May to early June) is ideal for pleasant temperatures, blooming green spaces, and fewer crowds. The beer gardens are lively but not overwhelming.
- Late September and early October are all about Oktoberfest. With visitors from around the world, it’s busy, festive and full of energy. If you’re up for a celebration of Bavarian culture, then consider going on your Munich city break during this time.
- Winter is great if you’re into the festive charm of the holidays. With traditional Christmas markets, especially in Marienplatz, you’re set for a special Munich city break.
- Summer offers long days and open-air concerts but be prepared for tourist crowds and higher prices.
Each season has its own draw, so whether you’re after cultural events, scenic strolls in a beautiful garden, or cozy evenings in traditional beer cellars, there’s always a good reason to plan your Munich city break.
Final thoughts on Munich city break
There are so many exciting things to do in Munich. The city’s low-key vibe, cultural attractions, amazing museums and outdoor spaces make it a great place to explore. It’s also the perfect location for architecture lovers, history buffs and foodies. Even Munich’s dark past makes it an important place to explore.
Munich has a wealth of unique attractions, each offering a memorable experience. It’s also a great home base for exploring Bavaria. You can take many different day trips to explore the wonderful historic towns, castles and the Alps. Whatever you decide to do, a Munich city break is the perfect destination for starting your German adventure.
