Munich: History, Museums and Green Spaces
Accommodation in Munich
Munich can be explored through several themes: the former residence of Bavaria’s rulers, historic squares and churches, museums, public art and green spaces. The places below show the many different ways to explore the city.
Royal Residence History and Historic Landmarks
The Munich Residenz served as the seat of government and residence of the Bavarian dukes, electors and kings from 1508 to 1918. This period spans more than four centuries. The Hofgarten is located beside the Residenz and was laid out between 1613 and 1617, modelled on an Italian Renaissance garden. Elector Karl Theodor opened it to the public in 1780. Today, it is a green park on the edge of the historic Old Town; admission is free. Check this information locally before your visit.
Marienplatz has been at the centre of the city since Munich was founded by Henry the Lion in 1158. The carillon in the tower of the New Town Hall has 43 bells. Munich’s Gothic Frauenkirche was built in the 15th century; by 1488, the building was complete except for the tops of its two towers. This construction phase helps place the church in context: the date does not refer to the completion of the tower tops. The ascent of the south tower follows 89 steps up a spiral staircase to a landing. From there, an elevator for up to four people goes to the tower room. Check before your visit whether this route is currently in operation.
Museums and Architecture
The Deutsches Museum invites visitors to explore 20 permanent exhibitions across 20,000 square metres. As the number of exhibitions and the area may change, check the information in advance if you would like to plan your visit around it. The museum entrance on Museum Island is next to the Cornelius Bridge, providing a specific landmark to help you find your way on arrival.
At the Olympic Stadium, the sweeping tent-like roof and architectural lightness shape its historical significance: they became hallmarks of the cosmopolitan and democratic ideals of the 1972 Summer Olympics. Closure for renovation began in September 2025. Check the latest information before planning a visit.
Green Spaces and Activities
The Monopteros in the English Garden was built by Leo von Klenze between 1833 and 1837. From there, you can look out over the meadows in the southern part of the English Garden and the silhouette of Munich’s Old Town. Sights include Frauenkirche, the New Town Hall and Alter Peter. The Monopteros thus connects a specific building history with views of the park and city skyline.
The freely accessible Mental Fit Path is located on a peninsula in the Olympic Park. Its eight stations offer tips on coping with mental health problems as well as a variety of physical exercises. Check before your visit whether the route is currently available.
Market and Public Remembrance
Around 100 stalls at Viktualienmarkt sell items including fruit and vegetables, fish and meat, bread, spices and delicatessen. The number of stalls and the range of goods may change. Fountains featuring statues commemorate Munich folk singers and comedians: Karl Valentin, Weiss Ferdl, Liesl Karlstadt, Ida Schumacher, Elisa Aulinger and Roider Jackl. The market brings together the sale of goods and public remembrance.
Discover more destinations: Aubing-Lochhausen-Langwied, Milbertshofen-Am Hart, Pasing, Oberschleißheim, Feldkirchen, Taufkirchen, Schäftlarn.
Back to the main travel overview: Munich.
