Discover 10 amazing free attractions in Munich that you can enjoy during your trip. This famous German city is ready to welcome you.
1. Marienplatz and Neue Rathaus in Munich
This tourist attraction is right in the center of Munich and was founded in 1158. In the center of the square is Mary’s Column, erected in 1683 and named after the Virgin Mary. Marienplatz is also famous for being home to Munich’s town hall, the Neues Rathaus, which has a neo-Gothic style and attracts attention with its famous clock.
The façade of this building is richly decorated and surrounded by statues of various personalities who have been part of the city’s past. Without a doubt, it’s a sight you can’t miss in Munich, which is the scene of many events and lots of tourism.
2. Munich Cathedral
Right next to Marienplatz is the Frauenkirche, or Cathedral of Our Lady. Construction of this tourist attraction began in 1468 and the cathedral was completely rebuilt after World War II, as it had been badly damaged. This cathedral is very large, dominating the center of this destination and can be seen from all sides, especially its large towers.
Climbing the towers is the main objective for tourists, but this tour is only available between April and October, always from Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm. The tours inside the cathedral take place between May and September, on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2pm. You can also see the huge bronze tomb-monument of Emperor Louis VI of Bavaria, which is located near the entrance to Munich Cathedral.
- Important tip: Munich is a city that has many museums, attractions and tours. Always buy the tickets in advance. We always buy everything on this website that has the best price.
3. Englischer Garten Park in Munich
Did you know that one of the largest parks in the world is located in Munich? The Englischer Garten, located on the banks of the River Isar and to the northeast of Munich, is one of the largest urban parks in the world, even larger than Central Park and Hyde Park in London.
Located in Munich since 1789, when Carl Theodor ordered the design of a public park along the River Isar, this tourist attraction offers beautiful scenery, as well as several monuments, such as the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm) and the Monopteros (Greek Temple).
In the park, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, such as a jogging track, courts and playing fields, a cycle path and even an artificial channel where people surf. That’s right. You can find surfers in this park in Munich. The Englischer Garten is also home to Munich’s second largest Biergarten (beer garden), which is located next to the Chinese Tower and seats 7,000 people.
4. Karlsplatz Square in Munich
Karslplatz is considered the heart of the city, mainly because it is the most important station in Munich. This place is also considered the meeting point for young people in this destination, who gather to enjoy the late afternoon, when Karlsplatz gets very crowded.
There, you’ll find Munich’s famous medieval gate, which gives access to Neuhauser Strasse, a beautiful street full of stores, restaurants and attractions that connects to Marienplatz, Munich’s traditional historic square.
5. Olympiapark in Munich
Located right next to the BMW Museum is the Olympiapark, the park that hosted the 1972 Olympics. This tourist attraction has various sports facilities, swimming pools, lakes, cycle paths, a concert hall, restaurants and a soccer stadium. It’s worth noting that Olympiapark has become a park for Munich residents to practice and encourage sport.
Another highlight is the Olympic Tower, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city. This complex also hosts Munich’s concerts, especially during the summer, when open-air events are common.
6. St. Peter’s Church in Munich
Called the Peterskirche, St. Peter’s Church has stood on the same site since the 11th century, having been renovated and enlarged during this time. This religious monument is very popular with tourists, especially for the fantastic view from its towers, which are considered one of the most beautiful in the whole of Munich.
To reach the top of St. Peter’s Church, you’ll have to climb almost 300 steps, but know that the effort will be worth it, as the view is amazing.
7. BMW Welt in Munich
With a modern and pleasant structure, the BMW World, opened in 2007, is the perfect place for car lovers. Visitors can learn more about the brand’s cars and their history. The museum also hosts cultural talks.
8. Oktoberfest in Munich
The Oktoberfest in Munich takes place annually in a field near the city’s central station, called the Theresienwiese. The site covers around 405,000 square meters. The beer festival, of German origin and famous all over the world, was created by the Bavarian king Louis I as a way of celebrating his marriage in 1810.
Approximately 6 million visitors enjoy the days of festivities, with traditional costumes and lots of traditional music. In 2023, the event will take place between September 16 and October 3.
- Important tip: To make the most of your trip, staying in the best area is essential. So, if you want, check out our article explaining the best region, the hotels and how you can save a lot on accommodation.
9. Viktualienmarkt in Munich
Located in the center of Munich, the city’s most famous market offers a wide variety of food such as breads, cheeses, fish, exotic fruits, as well as typical beers, flowers and souvenirs. Next to Marienplatz, the Viktualienmarkt was opened in 1807 and covers an area of 22,000 square meters.
10. Take a free walking tour of Munich
A great tip for a free walk in Munich are the so-called Free Tours. Some companies offer these tours, which are completely free of charge, and a guide takes you on a tour of the city, explaining everything in detail.
The tour is free, but at the end almost everyone tips the guide, so the amount of the tip is up to each individual. It’s a really nice and inexpensive way to learn more about the history of the place.
On the website we use to buy Munich tours and tickets, there’s a very cool tour: the Free Tour of Munich (a 2h30 tour that takes you around the city’s main sights to learn more about the culture and history of the Bavarian capital).
To take these tours, just go to this website. It’s the biggest tour website in the world. It’s where we always shop around and find the best prices. There are plenty of free tours around Munich, but there are also unmissable tours that can’t be left out of your itinerary and are paid for. The tip is always to buy in advance, which is cheaper.
Save money on your trip to Munich:
Saving money: do you want to plan your trip while making the most of your budget? Be sure to read our article on how to travel to Munich cheap, with all the tips to save the most, while still enjoying it!
Tickets: find out where to buy your Munich tickets in the cheapest and safest way – for parks, museums and ticket combos. You can save up to 40%!
Car: if you are thinking about renting one this is the best website. It compares the price at all rental companies and finds unbeatable prices. You can save up to 30%!
Mobile chip: we always use this chip. It’s electronic (eSIM), you install it instantly and you can use your cell phone’s Internet anywhere in the world.
Hotels: our article on where to stay in Munich. You will find out the best area and how to save a lot on the hotel.
Travel insurance: medical care in another country is very expensive and it is extremely important to take out travel insurance for any trip abroad. This is the website we always take out our insurance on. Reliable and at a good price.
Transfer: do you need one from the airport to the hotel? Find out here how to book and for the lowest price!
