Things to Do in Munich, Germany Including Day Trips

Munich is a beautiful city in southern Germany. It is the capital of Bavaria and home to many historical landmarks and attractions.

You can explore the city’s fascinating history, visit world-class museums, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. And, of course, no visit to Munich would be complete without taking in a Bavarian beer garden or two. No matter what your interests are, you’ll find many entertaining things to do in Munich, Germany.

Munich has many attractions, including Nymphenberg Palace, beer houses, and Marienplatz. Germany is also known for its delicious food. Many restaurants in Munich serve traditional German cuisine. For a more adventurous trip, you can go hiking in the Bavarian Alps or visit one of the many castles in Germany.

Hirschgarten

The Hirschgarten, dating back to 1791, was originally a hunting lodge for German princes. Eventually, it was turned into a restaurant. Today, the Hirschgarten, meaning “Deer Garden,” is Munich’s most extensive beer garden, seating around 8,000 people!

The restaurant can seat 500 people and has six beautifully decorated dining rooms. It’s a great place to visit for traditional Bavarian cuisine, too. If you’re looking for a taste of Munich, the Hirschgarten is the perfect place to start.

Marienplatz 

Things to Do in Munich, Germany Including Day Trips

Marienplatz (St. Mary’s Square) has been Munich’s main square since 1158. In the Middle Ages, the square was used for markets and tournaments. Today, Marienplatz houses Munich’s new and old city halls, which are on opposite sides of the square.

The Glockenspiel, located at the top of the new city hall, was inspired by these tournaments and is a popular tourist attraction. You can also enjoy some shopping or find a place for lunch in the area.

Hofbrauhaus

Founded in 1589 by Duke Wilhelm V as the brewery for his palace, it soon became one of Munich’s most popular beer halls. Today, Hofbrauhaus is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Munich. The hall is enormous, with a capacity of over 3,000 people, and the atmosphere is electric. The beer is excellent, and the food is hearty and filling. If you’re looking for an authentic Munich experience, Hofbrauhaus won’t disappoint.

Viktualienmarkt

Viktualienmarkt Munich, Germany

The Viktualienmarkt is a food market filled with fruits, vegetables, cheeses, sausages, truffles, and more. The market has been running since 1807 and is open daily except for Sundays and holidays. Stroll through the market and sample gourmet cheeses, or stop by a cafe and enjoy a meal. You may even listen to a band play and sing traditional German folk songs on a nice day.

St. Peter’s Church

things to do in Munich, Germany

St. Peter’s Church is the oldest Roman Catholic parish church in Munich. Opened in 1294, St. Peter’s Church is of baroque and Gothic architecture. You can climb the 260 steps up to the tower for a small fee. Although quite a workout, reaching the tower is worth it for the magnificent views of the city. It’s quite the sight, and you’ll take lots of photos! And you may also be lucky enough to see the church bells in action on your way up!

Oktoberfest

Things to Do in Munich, Germany Including Day Trips

After a three-year hiatus due to COVID-19, Oktoberfest is back! Munich’s Oktoberfest is held annually in late September and early October and features a wide range of traditional Bavarian music, food, and drink.

Oktoberfest offers everything from lederhosen and dirndls to hearty sausages, and pretzels washed down with a stein of beer. There is also a large carnival with rides for all ages. Be sure to ride on the Ferris wheel for gorgeous events and city views!

Chinesischen Turm

The tower, built in 1789 and featuring a Chinese-style pagoda, is one of Munich’s most popular tourist destinations. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for views of the parkland or enjoy a meal or drink at the beer garden at its base. The Chinesischen Turm is a beloved Munich landmark and a beautiful example of Chinese architecture.

Nymphenberg Palace

Things to Do in Munich, Germany Including Day Trips

Munich’s Nymphenburg Palace is a Baroque masterpiece. Built in the 17th century as a summer residence for the Bavarian Wittelsbachs, the palace complex includes several gardens, fountains, and museums. You can explore the lavish staterooms filled with art and antiquities or stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Munich residents often come to the palace to relax on weekends, and it’s not unusual to see people picnicking or playing games of frisbee. With its stunning architecture and idyllic setting, Nymphenburg Palace is a must-see for anyone visiting Munich.

Frauenkirche

Things to Do in Munich, Germany Including Day Trips

The Frauenkirche is a church located on the northern side of Marienplatz and was designed by Munich native Jorg von Halsbach. Construction of the church began in 1468 and was completed in 1494. The Frauenkirche is considered one of Munich’s most iconic landmarks. The church is notable for its two distinctive onion-shaped domes, visible from all over the city. The Frauenkirche is also home to a statue of the Virgin Mary, which is said to date back to the 12th century.

Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Germany is home to some of the most beautiful castles in the world, and Neuschwanstein Castle is no exception. It is about a 2-hour drive from Munich. Built in the late 19th century by King Ludwig II, this fairytale castle was intended to be a retreat from the outside world.

Today, Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Germany’s most popular tourist destinations. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, the castle offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can explore opulent rooms decorated with exquisite murals and intricate details. It is a truly magical place.

Day Trip to Salzburg, Austria

Things to Do in Munich, Germany Including Day Trips

Salzburg is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria and is only an hour and a half train ride from Munich. Situated on the banks of the River Salzach, towering mountains and lush green meadows surround it.

The city has several historic landmarks, including the Hohensalzburg Fortress (a must-visit) and the Mirabell Palace, where parts of the Sounds of Music were filmed. It is also a renowned cultural center with a thriving music scene and several museums and art galleries.

You will find plenty to see and do, from exploring its rich history to enjoying its many shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Day Trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber Germany

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is located in the heart of Bavaria and a 3-hour bus ride from Munich. It was founded in the 12th century and has since been well-preserved, making it a popular tourist destination.

The city is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the castle of Kaiser Karl der Große, the Gothic cathedral of St. Jakob, and the medieval town hall. In addition, Rothenberg is also known for its traditional Christmas market, which draws visitors from all over Germany and beyond.

Be sure to take a walk along the wall that barricades the village! You’ll get delightful photos of this gorgeous German village.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.