Seven Must-Sees in Munich
Can’t-miss things when in Germany’s third largest city.
A tour at München Residenz Museum
Residenz München
The Munich Residence served as the seat of government and residence of the Bavarian dukes, electors and kings from 1508 to 1918 and has been open to the public as a museum since 1920. You need to be prepared dedicate at least half a day to exploring the Residence, plus be sure to make use of the free audio guides. It's worth noting that the Residence Museum and the Treasury are only accessible via numerous stairs and steps so sensible and comfortable footwear is recommended.The Munich Residence is open daily. Exhibitions opening hours may vary. All of the buildings are closed during the following public holidays: 1 January, Shrove Tuesday and 24, 25 and 31 December. Combination tickets including access to the Residence Museum, Treasury and Cuvilliés Theatre are 13€ for adults. Children under 18 are admitted free of charge.
Munich's oldest beer
Augustiner Bräustuben
Welcome to the home of Munich's oldest beer. Augustiner Bräustuben microbrewery with its rustic and authentic setting is popular with both locals and tourists. Live music and Bavarian dancing events are frequently held in the beer hall and courtyard. There's also a rooftop terrace that is glorious during the summer months and hearty Bavarian fare on the menu. Additional information: Augustiner Bräustuben is open daily from 10am to midnight and serves warm & cold dishes continuously from 11am to 11pm. You can book a table online in advance.
Fun for the whole family
Olympiapark
If you're not brave enough to take a guided walking tour on the roof of the Olympic Stadium, then you could always fly 200m across the venue whilst suspended 35m above the ground in the latest Flying Fox attraction. From the Olympic Tower viewing deck, to the Walk of the Stars and the Ice Sports Centre, it's easy to find entertainment here that will suit the whole family – and at reasonable prices.Check the Olympiapark website for the most up to date events, activities and admission details. Olympic Stadium tour prices (without a guide) are 3,50€ for adults and 2,50€ for children.
Visit the website for current events and activities.
The famous cathedral
Frauenkirche: Dom zu Unserer Lieben Frau
You simply cannot visit Munich without making a trip to explore the most famous landmark in the city. This imposing triple-naved late-Gothic cathedral set in Munich's Old Town is also famous for a particularly odd attraction – it bears the devil's footprint inside its hallowed entrance hall. Frauenkirche, constructed between 1468-88, is also the burial place of the Holy Roman Emperor, Louis IV, along with members of the Wittelsbach dynasty, and King Ludwig III, the last king of Bavaria.
The cathedral is open Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tourist visits are not possible during religious services.
A green oasis
Englischer Garten
This sprawling 900-acre park is best known for its beer gardens and sunbathers, although it should be at the top of your list for prime picnic locations, too. The English Garden is one of the largest parks in the world, even bigger than Central Park in New York City, and there's plenty to keep you entertained during your break from the bustling city. From the Greek Temple, paddleboats, a sheep farm, traditional restaurants and the signature 82-feet high Chinesischer Turm or Chinese Tower, there's enough going on to warrant a day trip.
Discover German cuisine
Spatenhaus an der Oper
Spatenhaus an der Oper is the best of both worlds—no-frills Bavaria downstairs and elegance upstairs. This is where you go if you’re looking for traditional food of the highest quality, such as classic schnitzel, braised meat or the refreshing Spaten beer. But half the fun is in the decor when you visit the Spatenhaus an der Oper.
Classic opera
Bayerische Staatsoper
The State Opera House is a must-see when visiting Munich. This beautiful building, now one of the world’s leading opera houses, has a long and rich history. It hosts fantastic performances that are shown to over 600,000 guests annually. Make sure you book a guided tour for a behind the scenes look at the opera house.
Text by Claire Bloomfield