12 must-do activities in Munich

Renowned for its beer festival and rich Bavarian culture, Munich offers so much more than just that.

Visit its outstanding museums, charming old town, grand opera house, bustling food markets, and lively neighborhoods, knowing that a refreshing beer will be waiting for you at day's end.

Here are the best experiences to have in Munich.

1. Discover the charm of Munich’s old town

A great starting point for exploring the old town—or the city itself—is the central square, Marienplatz, a popular gathering spot. Here, you’ll find the enchanting Altes Rathaus and the gargoyle-decorated Neues Rathaus, which dominates the square and attracts crowds eager to see the famous Glockenspiel performance.

At 11am, noon, and (from March to October) 5pm, vibrant figures reenact scenes from Munich’s history accompanied by the ringing of bells. For a unique view, snag a window seat at MONACO cafe on the 4th floor of the Ludwig Beck department store or at Cafe Glockenspiel, directly across from the new town hall.

Visiting Munich for the first time? Here’s what you should know before your trip

2. Enjoy a walk in Englischer Garten, Munich’s vast park

Spanning across Munich, Englischer Garten is one of the largest urban parks in the world. It offers shaded spots and swimming areas in the summer, sledding hills in the winter, and vibrant fall colors, making it a cherished retreat in the heart of the city. Be sure to catch the surfers at the Eisbach wave and enjoy the skyline views from the Monopteros temple.

Local tip: Even locals can lose their way here. Luckily, you’ll often find a beer garden, kiosk, or map nearby to help you navigate.

3. Dress up for an evening at the opera

The neoclassical National Theater, home to one of the largest opera stages globally, serves as the main venue for the Bavarian State Opera, the Bavarian State Ballet, and the Bavarian State Orchestra. Opened in 1818, this theater has hosted several premieres by Richard Wagner. Nowadays, it features a varied lineup of performances for both adults and children that can be reserved online.

Planning tip: Even if you can't catch a performance, take a nighttime stroll past the building to admire its beautifully illuminated facade.

Navigate Munich with our local transportation guide

4. Indulge in authentic Bavarian cuisine at Munich’s beer halls

For a taste of authentic local cuisine, visit one of Munich's numerous beer halls or Wirtshäuser (taverns). Arrive with an appetite to savor pork knuckles, roast chicken, dumplings, and generous Brotzeit platters filled with cheese, cured meats, and pickles. Alternatively, consider a traditional breakfast that features an early-morning beer. Great starting points include Der Pschorr and the renowned Hofbräuhaus, both located in central Munich. If you're fortunate, you might even enjoy your meal with a live brass band!

5. Experience the local vibe at a beer garden

Best appreciated on a sunny summer afternoon, Munich’s numerous beer gardens provide a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. You'll share communal tables while indulging in treats like Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick) and Obazda (Bavarian cheese spread), all while sipping refreshing beers. For an exceptional experience, check out Bavaria’s largest beer garden, Hirschgarten, or the shaded Augustiner Keller near the central station. For a more relaxed atmosphere, consider Zum Flaucher by the river.

Local tip: Be aware that many places serve beer by the liter only after 4pm.

Traveling on a budget? Explore our money-saving tips for your visit to Munich

6. Discover the beauty of Schloss Nymphenburg palace and its gardens

As one of Munich’s premier landmarks, Schloss Nymphenburg boasts opulent interiors and vast gardens. Originally designed as a summer residence to commemorate the birth of a long-awaited heir in 1662, this location was once situated far outside the city limits. However, as both the palace and Munich have grown, the palace is now nestled within a vibrant urban environment.

7. Enjoy a swim at Müller'sches Volksbad

Established in 1901, Müller'sches Volksbad is the city's oldest public indoor swimming pool. This stunning structure located along the Isar River, close to the Deutsches Museum, showcases some of Munich’s finest art nouveau architecture. Visitors can enjoy two pools—once segregated by gender but now differentiated by temperature—and explore various saunas and steam baths. Expect beautifully preserved artwork, columns, and sculptures instead of water slides and wave pools.

8. Savor delicious treats at Viktualienmarkt, the city’s largest market

The vibrant stalls at Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s largest outdoor market, reflect the changing seasons. Open six days a week, it’s the ideal destination for artisanal cheeses, local honey, and a variety of fresh products. You can also find vendors offering freshly squeezed juices, sparkling wine, and specialty coffee—plus a beer garden right in the heart of the market.

Planning tip: Given its proximity to Marienplatz, this spot is ideal for a quick lunch between sightseeing. Check out Caspar Plautz for delicious baked potatoes or Poseidon for a tasty fish soup.

Our seasonal guide can help you select the perfect time for your visit to Munich

9. Discover some of Germany’s finest museums in the Kunstareal

Home to a plethora of museums, galleries, and academic institutions, the Kunstareal art district is your go-to destination for a cultural experience. This compact area features notable highlights like the Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek, and Pinakothek der Moderne, all easily accessible on foot. Located in the student quarter, it also boasts many fun and budget-friendly dining options nearby.

10. Take in the views from Munich’s top observation platforms

Munich boasts numerous viewpoints that provide stunning panoramas of the city and its surroundings. In the heart of the city, you can visit the 85m-high (279ft) observation tower in the Neues Rathaus (accessible via elevator) or the viewing platform at St Peter’s Church (which has no elevator). For more views, head to Olympic Park for the Olympiaturm or ride the large Ferris wheel named Umadum in the Werksviertel. Many hotels in Munich also feature rooftop terraces, and restaurants like Fitzroy offer dining with a view.

Planning tip: During the warmer months, keep an eye out for pop-up outdoor venues that often set up on the rooftops of parking garages and cultural spaces.

11. Raise a glass at Oktoberfest, the largest beer festival in the world

Join the throngs that flock to Oktoberfest, the largest beer festival in the world, each year. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere within the city or head to the festival grounds for amusement rides and beer tents. It's not solely a beer party: attendees can also enjoy lunch under the late autumn sun or partake in historic rides and traditional games at the Oide Wiesn. If you prefer to steer clear of crowds, it's advisable to avoid the festival period altogether.

12. Discover the city’s character through its neighborhoods

If you're looking to take a break from the famous sights and want to experience a different side of Munich, there are several neighborhoods close to the center that are definitely worth exploring.

Visit Haidhausen for a laid-back village feel, Schwabing for stunning art nouveau architecture, or Maxvorstadt for a lively student atmosphere. Each neighborhood is perfect for a leisurely afternoon of coffee and cake or a fun evening of dinner and drinks. Try Nana for Israeli dishes in Haidhausen, Das Weinheim for cheese fondue in Schwabing, or Gratitude for vegan delights in Maxvorstadt.

Explore Munich one neighborhood at a time with our detailed guide