12 unmissable Munich landmarks and historical sights

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is rich in iconic sights and attractions. While exploring the best landmarks in Munich, you’ll encounter a captivating blend of architectural, historical, and natural attractions that are an integral part of the city’s fabric. Discover historic landmarks such as the bustling Marienplatz with its legendary Glockenspiel or architectural landmarks like the Baroque Asamkirche. If you’re into natural sights, strolling through the English Garden with its famous Eisbach Wave or the landscaped grounds of Nymphenburg Palace are some of the best things to do in Munich.

Munich’s landmarks at a glance

Most-visited landmark: Marienplatz

Oldest landmark: St. Peter’s Church

Largest green space: Englischer Garten

Historic landmarks in Munich

1. Marienplatz

Marienplatz is one of Munich’s most recognizable landmarks, serving as the pulsing core of the city. This historic square in Old Town, one of the best neighborhoods in Munich, has been the center of Munich’s public life since the 12th century, hosting markets, festivals, and political events. The square is dominated by the world-famous Neues Rathaus, renowned for its Glockenspiel. The name Marienplatz originates from the 11-meter-high Mariensäule (Mary's Column), one of the most iconic landmarks in the square.

Insider tip

The best time to catch the Glockenspiel show is at 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM, but arriving early will allow you to snag a prime viewing spot.

Address and opening hours

Marienplatz, 80331 München, Germany. Open 24 hours.

2. Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace is one of Munich’s most beloved landmarks, renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and expansive gardens. Originally a summer residence for Bavarian royalty, the palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Wittelsbach dynasty. You’ll be able to explore lavishly decorated rooms, including the beautiful Hall of Mirrors and the intricate frescoes. Don’t forget the surrounding park, with its canals, pavilions, and botanical gardens.

Insider tip

Leave time to explore the parkland at the Palace and its pavilions, including the Amalienburg and the Pagodenburg. Sometimes, the palace grounds host special events and concerts.

Address and opening hours

Schloß Nymphenburg 1, 80638 München, Germany. Open daily, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM.

3. Odeonsplatz

Odeonsplatz is one of Munich’s most prominent squares, framed by iconic buildings like the Theatinerkirche and the Feldherrnhalle military monument. The square’s central location makes it a hub for cultural and political events, including historic parades and protests. Odeonsplatz is also a gateway to Munich’s elegant shopping streets like Maximilianstrasse and the manicured Hofgarten Park.

Insider tip

Late afternoon is the best time to visit Odeonsplatz when the golden hour sun is glinting off the rooftops and faces of the buildings.

Address and opening hours

Odeonspl., 80333 München, Germany. Open daily, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Architectural landmarks in Munich

4. Frauenkirche

Frauenkirche is a 15th-century cathedral in Munich celebrated for its stunning Gothic architecture. The cathedral is best known for its distinctive twin onion-domed towers, which dominate the Munich skyline. Inside the church is a vaulted nave and stunning stained glass windows. Frauenkirche is not only a religious site but a symbol of Munich’s resilience, having survived the bombings of World War II.

Insider tip

Take your time to explore the Gothic architecture and the unique “Devil’s Footprint” on the floor, a famous local legend.

Address and opening hours

Frauenplatz 1, 80331 München, Germany. Open daily,Monday-Sunday 7:30 AM-8:30 PM.

5. Königsplatz

Munich’s Königsplatz is one of the city’s top landmarks thanks to its grand neoclassical architecture and historical importance. Designed in the early 19th century, the square is bordered by impressive buildings like the Glyptothek and Staatliche Antikensammlungen museums. Modern-day Königsplatz is a venue for cultural events and open-air concerts.

Insider tip

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the Königsplatz lawns. Don't forget to snap a few photos of the impressive Propyläen, a city gate at the western edge of the square.

Address and opening hours

Königsplatz 1, 80333 München, Germany. Open 24 hours.

6. Asamkirche

Asamkirche, or the Church of St. Johann Nepomuk, is an architectural landmark in Munich known for its Baroque design. Built in the 18th century by the Asam brothers, the church’s lavish interiors feature intricate stucco work, frescoes, and a dramatic altar.

Insider tip

After visiting the church, pop into Sweet Spot Kaffee for a coffee and a Bavarian pastry.

Address and opening hours

Sendlinger Str. 32, 80331 München, Germany. Open daily, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM.

7. Neues Rathaus

Munich’s Neues Rathaus, or New Town Hall, is a neo-Gothic design completed in 1908. The building features a towering facade adorned with intricate stonework and medieval gargoyles. The centerpiece is its iconic Glockenspiel, a mechanical clock that performs a daily show with animated figures. The Rathaus is a focal point of Marienplatz and a symbol of Munich’s architectural heritage.

Insider tip

For one of the best views in Munich, climb the Rathaus tower.

Address and opening hours

Marienplatz 8, 80331 München, Germany. Open daily, 10:00 AM-7:00 PM.

8. St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter's Church is Munich’s oldest church, dating back to the 12th century. The church’s interior features stunning Baroque frescoes and woodwork, but the highlight is its bell tower, which offers panoramic views of Munich and the surrounding Alps.

Insider Tip

Weekdays are best for quieter visits; leave time to explore the surrounding Petersplatz area.

Address and opening hours

Peterspl. 1, 80331 München, Germany. Open Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-5:30 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 10:00 AM-5:30 PM.

9. BMW Headquarters

Not all architectural landmarks in Munich are centuries old. The BMW Headquarters, completed in 1973, is a prime example of Munich’s innovative and modern side. The building’s futuristic “four-cylinder” shape, with cylindrical towers and a reflective glass facade, represents BMW’s engineering. The complex also features the sleek BMW Museum, one of Munich’s best museums.

Insider tip

Leave time for a tour of the BMW Museum and the BMW Welt, which will take you through the company’s history. You can also have a meal or coffee at the on-site restaurant.

Address and opening hours

BMW Headquarters, Petuelring 130, 80809 München, Germany. Open Monday-Saturday, 8:00 AM-8:00 PM.

Natural landmarks in Munich

10. Englischer Garten

The Englischer Garten is a major landmark in Munich and one of the largest urban parks in the world, surpassing even London’s Hyde Park in size. The natural, open space features lovely meadows, paths, and waterways, such as the Eisbach River. Visitors come to the park to explore its iconic spots, such as the Chinese Tower, with its beer garden, and the serene Monopteros Temple, which has one of the best views in Munich.

Insider tip

Germany may not be famous for its surf, but you can ride an impressive wave at the famous Eisbachwelle, the largest and most consistent location in the city center for river surfing.

Address and opening hours

Munich, Germany. Open 24 hours.

11. Hofgarten

The elegant Hofgarten dates back to the 17th century. This Renaissance-style garden is a colorful and calm oasis next to Residenz Palace. Its symmetrical layout showcases manicured lawns, blooming flowerbeds, and a central pavilion known as the Hofgarten Pavilion. A web of pathways crisscross the garden, shaded by green, leafy trees, making it a favorite retreat in the heart of the city.

Insider tip

Hofgarten has impressive arcade-style passages. The one along Galeriestrasse is home to the Deutsches Teatermuseum, while the western arcade has frescoes by students of painter Peter von Cornelius.

Address and opening hours

Hofgartenstraße 1, 80538 München, Germany. Open 24 hours.

12. Westpark

Opened in 1983, Westpark is one of Munich’s largest and most beautiful urban parks, featuring landscaped gardens, lakes, and themed areas like a Japanese garden and an Italian-inspired section. The park is a prime area for jogging, picnicking, and playing sports. It’s also a venue for cultural attractions at its open-air theater.

Insider tip

Westpark is home to the Hopfengarten, a beer garden serving Bavarian food and traditional brews with live music.

Address and opening hours

81373 Munich, Germany. Open 24 hours.

FAQs

What are the most famous landmarks in Munich?

The most famous landmarks in Munich include Frauenkirche, Nymphenburg Palace, BMW Headquarters, and Asamkirche.

Where is the best view of Frauenkirche?

You can enjoy views of Frauenkirche from several points in the city. St. Peter’s Church Tower has a great panoramic view of Munich, especially of the Frauenkirche. Olympic Tower also has a sweeping skyline view, including the onion domes of the Frauenkirche, making it one of the best things to do in Munich at night.

Are there any free landmarks to visit in Munich?

Visitors can enjoy many historic and natural landmarks in Munich for free. Marienplatz, the central square, is open to the public and features historic buildings and the Glockenspiel Tower. The Englischer Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world, is also free to enter. St. Peter’s Church, Asamkirche, Königsplatz, BMW Welt, and Hofgarten are other landmarks without an entry fee.

What are the best landmarks in Munich to visit with children?

Some of the best Munich landmarks and attractions to visit with children include the Deutsches Museum, the BMW Welt and Museum, and the Englischer Garten.