Looking for things to see in Munich on your next of first trip? We’ve got a list of our top 10 favourites duringour 24 hours in Munich. It was a quick visit but we definitely made the most of it (like we always do).
Our trip to Munich was a bit of an unexpected one. It was the cheapest place to fly into direct from Toronto during our 10 day trip to Austria, so naturally, we thought we could make a bit of a weekend out of it. While it would have been great to visit this beautiful city during Oktoberfest. I realized it has so much more to offer.
Beerhalls and sausages may be a big part of but let us tell you, it’s not the only thing. As Bavaria’s capital city, this big city gives off a small-town feel. We took a tour around the main spots of the city and hit all of the highlights in a couple of hours, it was also really walkable. Even in the dead of winter.
| Click here for hotels in Munich |
Steeped in what many call ‘dark tourism’, travellers can overlook how beautiful the city really is. As you wander the streets of the old town we bet you’ll find it really hard to put your camera down.
| Feldherrnhalle |
Located on the Odeonsplatz and very near to the centre of the town, this monument has lots of history to it. Apparently, Hitler’s Beer Hall Putsch was ended near this monument in 1923. If you’re a history buff like me you’ll find this spot really cool to go and see. Not to mention, when the Nazi’s were in power, the monument served as a reminder of the death of 16 key members of the Nazi party.
The monument was originally built in the mid-1800s. On the monument, you’ll find 2 beautifully carved lions. The lions on represent two military leaders: Johann Tilly and Karl Phillip Von Wrede.
| Church of St. Peter |
As the oldest parish in Munich, the church itself is something you likely don’t want to miss. However, if you’re a lover of amazing views like I am, then climbing the chuch tower should be top of your list for things to see in Munich.
Made up of a total of 299 steps it can definitely get tiring on the way up and this probably isn’t a place for people who have problems with mobility. The hallways up to the top of the viewing tower can also get really really tight so don’t be alarmed if you get right up close and personal with a stranger. I swear though, once you reach the top you won’t regret the climb!
It costs a few Euro’s to get in but it’s nothing major. As someone always looking to save money where I can, I would say this is definitely worth paying for.
| Marienplatz |
One of the most famous spots in Munich, it’s best to venture here first thing in the morning to get a shot with fewer visitors. Believe it or not, this has been the square of the city since 1158!
Our hotel was located right around the corner from Marienplatz which made it super easy to sneak over whenever we wanted to take in the sights. The Marian column located right in the middle of the square was erected as a way to celebrate the end of the Spanish occupation in the 1600s.
In the winter you’ll also find a stunning Christmas market here!
| Theatine Church |
The Theatine Church is located near to the Feldhernhalle. it’s an Italian Baroque style Catholic church and definitely one of the most eye-catching buildings in Munich. The building was originally built in celebration of the birth of a child.
Henreitte Adelaide of Savoy said that if she were to birth a crown prince than a building was to be constructed in her honour. However, after the construction began there were arguments between the architect and property manager and it took years for the actual building to be complete.
To get the best photo of the building, walk back as far as possible to try and get the entire building in the frame.
| Viktualienmarkt |
What started as a smaller famer’s market in the 1800s, has evolved over the years to a specialized food market. You’ll find stalls dedicated entirely to honey, or cheese. There are lots of stalls that hold exotic food as well. Walking around this market will give you plenty of opportunity for photos. In the middle of the market you’ll also find a famous Maypole.
On the maypole there are images of trades and crafts from that particular part of Munich. Back in the day towns used put images on poles and place them in the centre of the city. Because so many people couldn’t read, these poles were intended to showcase through imagery what people could find in the area. That’s definitely something you want to remember!
| Hofbrauhaus |
A trip to Munich simply wouldn’t be a trip if you missed the Hofbrauhaus. Munich’s oldest beerhall does nothing to disappoint its reputation. The tables are lined up in a picnic table fashion with people spilling out on either side of them.
The beers are enormous, the pretzels are delicious and the live entertainment is something to write home about. The people watching is almost as fun as drinking the beer itself.
Who said the only thing to see in Munich was Oktoberfest?