Save this list if you are planning a short trip to Munich!
These are a few of the highlights from my long weekend in Bavaria’s capital. I was in Munich visiting one of my best friends who had recently moved there, and I had four days to pack in as much as I could. Not surprisingly, my absolute favorite part of the trip was spending time with my long-distance bestie and doing the normal friend things – cafes, restaurants, shopping, life-updating, people watching, etc. Of course we managed to sprinkle in a good amount of the touristy things with the normal life things too.
Enjoy my list of must-do adventures in München!
Marienplatz
Marienplatz is the central square in Munich’s Old Town. Use it as a jumping off point for exploring the city. Much of the city, especially its old town, was destroyed during World War II. In Marienplatz you’ll see how Munich’s newer architecture has been incorporated cohesively with its historic buildings. You’ll find churches, restaurants, cafes, boutiques, souvenir shops, live music, and department stores all within walking distance from Marienplatz.
Glockenspiel Building
The Neues Rathaus building is in the center of Marienplatz and houses the Rathaus-Glockenspiel, a solar-powered mechanical clock with 43 bells and 32 life-size figures. The clock plays at 11am and 12pm everyday, with an additional time at 5pm from March through October. I recommend arriving to Marienplatz early to get some gelato and secure the perfect viewing spot. The inside of the Glockenspiel building is just as gorgeous as the outside – be sure to check it out before or after you watch the clock’s shows!
Munich Residence
Residenz München served as the government seat and home for Bavarian royalty from 1508-1918. Although much of the palace was destroyed during Word War II, it’s been restored to showcase Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical designs. Every single room is stunning and gave me very unrealistic visions for my dream home.
St. Peter’s Tower
The Alter Peter church tower will give you 360º views of Munich and all of its landmarks. For smaller crowds and more space while climbing the tower, choose a weekday over a weekend. I went on a Monday morning and was one of seven to nine people in the tower at one time. I don’t do well with enclosed spaces so a crowded tower would have definitely been too much for me. The initial set of stairs is narrow, but they open up after the first flight. There are benches and areas to rest throughout the ~300 step climb. In one section, you can see the church bells while they play. Aside from seeing my dear friend, this was my favorite part of my time in Munich.
Nymphenburg Palace
Schloss Nymphenburg is about 25 minutes by car from Munich’s Old Town. You can also get there by bike and a variety of public transport options. It’s construction as a summer residence for Max Emanuel originally began in 1664. The palace and grounds have undergone numerous extensions and renovations since. The inside of Nymphenburg is absolutely gorgeous and showcases mostly baroque design. When you go, build in enough time to walk through the park and gardens. I didn’t have a chance to explore the grounds too much on this first visit, but it’s on my to-do list for my next Munich trip!
English Garden
Englischer Garten is an escape to nature northeast of Old Town Munich. The public park borders the Isar river and is also home to the Eisbachwalle (a surfing spot on the Eisbach canal), beer gardens, walking trails, the Kleinhesseloher See (a lake where you can rent pedal boats), and numerous canals that wind through the park.
Isar River
If you are in Munich in the summer, you MUST include Isar time in your itinerary. When I packed for Munich, I did not have swimming on my brain and didn’t bring a bathing suit but I definitely should have. I lucked out that I was with my friend and she guided me through a trail to a spot along the river that wasn’t full of people. Even if you aren’t with a local, there are numerous areas on both sides of the river to set up a blanket or chair. I’d recommend bringing water shoes if you can because the riverbed is ROCKY and the water moves pretty quickly. It’s easy to lose your footing in some spots.
Try Döner
Last but not least, while in Germany you MUST try döner. The Turkish seasoned meat is served in a flatbread or bun with toppings of your choice. It’s similar to gyros or shawarma but also completely unique. For years I had “try döner in Germany” on my bucket list and it surpassed the high expectations I had. WOW. YUM.
What did I miss? What is your favorite thing in Munich?
Claire Goes Places 