Munich is the capital and the most populated city in the German state of Bavaria, on the banks of River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is also the third largest city in Germany.
Munich is the capital and the most populated city in the German state of Bavaria, on the banks of River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is also the third largest city in Germany, after Berlin and Hamburg, and the 12th biggest city of the European Union, with a population of around 1.5 million. The Munich Metropolitan Region is home to 6 million people.
The city is a major centre of art, advanced technologies, finance, publishing, culture, innovation, education, business, and tourism in Germany and Europe and enjoys a very high standard and quality of living, reaching first in Germany and fourth worldwide according to the 2015 Mercer survey. According to the Globalization and World Rankings Research Institute Munich is considered an alpha-world city, as of 2015.
The name of the city is derived from the Old/Middle High German term Munichen, meaning "by the monks", which in turn is derived from Mönch. It derives from the monks of the Benedictine order, who ran a monastery at the place that was later to become the Old Town of Munich; hence the monk depicted on the city's coat of arms. Munich was first mentioned in 1158. From 1255 the city was seat of the Bavarian Dukes. Black and gold – the colours of the Holy Roman Empire – have been the city's official colours since the time of Ludwig the Bavarian, when it was an imperial residence. Following a final reunification of the Wittelsbachian Duchy of Bavaria, previously divided and sub-divided for more than 200 years, the town became the country's sole capital in 1506.
9:00am-9:30am : Frauenkirche
The enormous, 15th-century Frauenkirche can hold about 20,000 people. It stands as a symbol of Bavaria's capital city and features a rich collection of artwork from the 14th to 18th centuries. In the nave, you'll find Gothic stained-glass windows and the tomb monument of Holy Roman Emperor Louis IV. Be sure to look for the curious black mark resembling a footprint near the church entrance. This "devil's footprint" survived World War II bombing. You can ask locals about the legends surrounding it. For views of Munich and the Alps, you can climb up the church's 99 m (325 ft) south tower.
10:00am-10:30am : Marienplatz
Soak up the local culture at Marienplatz, the city's main public square since 1158. Today, the square is dominated by the Gothic city hall, which you'll find on the northern side. Ages ago, markets and tournaments were held in this square, which is named after a Marian column standing at its center. The column was built in 1638 in honor of the Virgin Mary, a sign of gratitude for the end of Swedish occupation. Note the city hall's clock tower, which was inspired by the medieval tournaments once held here. It features 43 bells and 32 life-size figures. The bells chime several times a day, and some of the figures dance, prompting passers-by to stop and check their watches. The 85 m (280 ft) tower is open for visitors.
11:00am-12:00pm : Deutsches Museum
Deutsches Museum, the world's largest museum of science and technology, welcomes about 1.5 million visitors each year. You can explore nearly 28,000 objects in 50 science and technology fields. Founded in 1903 on the initiative of engineer Oskar von Miller, the museum's main site is on Museum Island in the Isar river. (Two other spots in the city host additional exhibit spaces.) Explore the museum's interactive exhibits dedicated to natural sciences, telecommunications, tunnel construction, technical toys, astronautics, bridge building, marine navigation, aerospace, and much more. Photography is permitted, so don't forget your camera.
12:30pm-1:00pm : Olympic Tower
A 30-second elevator ride takes you to the top of Olympic Tower, where you can look out over Munich from 291 m (955 ft) in the air. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps. You'll also find the world's highest rock-and-roll museum here. Enjoy refreshments at the revolving restaurant halfway up the tower.
1:30pm-2:30pm : Botanischer Garten Muenchen-Nymphenbur
Admire 14,000 species of plant spread over 18 hectares (44 acres) at Botanischer Garten Muenchen-Nymphenburg. This greenhouse complex of 11 different rooms recreates different climates. You can explore the tropical jungle, dry dessert, aquatic plant pond, and even a room of carnivorous plants. Step outside to stroll through the arboretum, rose garden, ornamental courtyard, insect pavilion, and more. Afterward, you can rest your legs in the botanical garden's cafe.
3:00pm-4:00pm : Nymphenburg Palace
While millions of tourists flock to the city for its world-famous beer festival, few find their way to the tranquil Nymphenburg Palace. Renowned architect Agostino Barelli designed this sprawling, 200 hectare (490 acre) garden oasis, which was completed in 1675. The palace once served as the summer residence of Bavarian kings. The facade was redesigned in the French Baroque style in 1716, and now is about 700 m (2,300 ft) wide. You can visit both the gardens and their several museums. The most notable one, inside the former royal stables, contains one of the biggest horse carriage collections in Europe. Regular guided tours aren't available, but you can pick up an informative audio guide at the site's entrance.
4:30pm-6:00pm : Walking tours
9:00am-6:00pm : Nature & Wildlife Tours
10:30am-4:30pm : Nationalparkzentrum - Haus der Berge, Berchtesgaden
Established in 1978 to protect the Berchtesgaden Alps on the border with Austria, Nationalparkzentrum - Haus der Berge touts a network of trails, including one that leads pilgrims to the Church of St. Bartholomew. Six information centers in the park provide maps, instructions, event calendars, and recommendations. The town of Berchtesgaden just outside the park is populated with hotels and a large tourist center. Don't miss Lake Königsseer, with the Watzmann mastiff reflected in its clear glacial waters.
9:00am-11:00am : Beer Tastings & Tours
12:30pm-1:00pm : Wank Mountain
1:30pm-2:30pm : Eibsee
At the base of Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, you'll find Eibsee. A peaceful lake, it is enjoyable year-round. In warm weather, take a dip in the water or rent a paddleboat. If you plan to swim, bring water shoes to protect your feet from the rocky beaches. You also can take a stroll on the lakeside path, or hike farther up the mountain for views of the lake below. In winter, ride the gondola up the mountain to view the magical frozen landscape. In the colder season, remember to bring any snacks or drinks with you, as the food stands and restaurants are open usually only in the warmer months.
3:00pm-3:30pm : Alpspitz
4:00pm-5:00pm : Hollentalklamm
9:00am-9:30am : Starnberger See
Starnberger See is one of Germany's largest lakes by volume. You can explore the surrounding geological formations created by a glacier. Walking or biking along the shoreline paths is another option. Kayaks, paddleboards, and other watersport equipment are available to rent. You may want to take one of the many ferries and boat tours, some of which travel to scenic Rose Island.
10:00am-10:30am : Ammersee
11:30am-12:00pm : Burgersaalkirche
The Bürgersaal (English: "Citizen's Hall") is a historical building in Munich, Germany. Also known as Bürgersaalkirche since the consecration of the altar on May 13, 1778, it is the prayer and meeting room of the Marian Men Congregation "Annunciation". It was built in 1709/1710 under design by Giovanni Antonio Viscardi.
12:30pm-1:00pm : FC Bayern Museum
1:30pm-2:00pm : BMW Museum
BMW Museum showcases the carmaker's technical developments during its history and the benefits of modern vehicle design. On this bowl-shaped site, you'll find engines, turbines, aircraft, motorcycles, and many of the company's most famous road vehicles. Also get a look at what the company's engineers have been dreaming up over the last two decades by viewing drawings of their concepts for new vehicles. Tour the museum on your own or take one of several behind-the-scenes tours. Audio guides are available. Consider stopping by the adjacent modern showroom to see the models currently for sale.
2:30pm-3:00pm : Lenbachhaus
Housed in the former residence of Franz von Lenbach, Lenbachhaus was sold to the city in 1924 by the artist's widow. Shortly after, Munich's city art collections found a home together inside the building. The exhibits map out Germany's major art movements from the 19th century to present day. The Munich Secession group's work combined Impressionism, avant-garde, and Art Nouveau to create a style completely German. View their work and others in the 19th century gallery. A gallery dedicated to the Objectivity movement continues the journey through German art history. For art created after the end of World War II, visit the Art After 1945 gallery, where experiential, conceptual, and installation art dominates. The friendly layout includes an intimate restaurant in a modern structure overlooking the museum grounds.
3:30pm-4:00pm : NS-Dokumentationszentrum Muenchen
4:30pm-5:00pm : Staatliche Museum Agyptischer Kunst
5:30pm-6:00pm : Hofgarten
For some quiet time during your sightseeing, stop at Hofgarten, between the English Garden and Munich Residenz. The Italian Renaissance garden was built in 1613, and features gravel paths, fountains, flower beds, and a cafe. Look for the Temple of Diana in the center of the garden. In the northeast corner, a square, black granite memorial is dedicated to the White Rose group, whose members were executed for a nonviolent campaign against Hitler's regime. In warm weather, you may find musicians playing in the garden, as well as locals playing boccie ball on the gravel paths.
10:30am-11:00am : Oytalroller
11:30am-1:00pm : Skydiving
2:00pm-2:30pm : Altstadt von Fuessen
Altstadt von Fuessen, near the Austrian border, represents one of the best examples of a classic Bavarian old town. Winding streets and a collection of squares are laid out along the river Lech at the foot of the Alps. The High Palace, a well-preserved Gothic castle, rises above the surrounding buildings. The extensive monastery of St. Mang is home to the oldest fresco in the country. You can wander across the bridge for beautiful views of the historic sites on each bank. Stop for a traditional Bavarian dish or medieval-style specialty at one of the local restaurants. The town's website provides details on special events, festivals, and guided tours.
3:00pm-3:30pm : Mount Tegelberg
Providing an excellent view of the town of Shwangau and the mountains of southern Bavaria, Mount Tegelberg is easily accessed by cable car. The cable car climbs 892 m (0.55 mi) from the base to the summit of the mountain, where you will find a Panorama-Restaurant and many hiking trails. It is even possible to hike down from here to the famous Neuschwanstein castle. Adventurous visitors can rent paragliders or hang gliders from the summit, and fly over the valley for an unforgettable experience.
4:00pm-4:30pm : Schloss Neuschwanstein
Looking like an illustration from a book of fairy tales, Schloss Neuschwanstein stands perched on a mountain cliff. King Ludwig II of Bavaria commissioned this 19th-century palace. He paid for it out of his personal fortune rather than from public funds. It was intended as a refuge for the reclusive king, but it was opened to the paying public immediately after his death in 1886. Since then, more than 60 million people have visited, drawn by the picturesque location and romantic design. Constructed under the direction of architect Eduard Riedel, the building embodies the architectural fashion known as castle romanticism. You'll also note that it embraces Ludwig II's immoderate enthusiasm for the operas of his close friend Richard Wagner. Check the weather conditions before you plan your trip; misty conditions and rain often reduce visibility to almost zero at those heights. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket center in the village below the castle.
9:00am-9:30am : Eisbach Wave
The Eisbach is a small man-made river, 2 kilometres long, in Munich. It flows through the park known as the Englischer Garten and is a side arm of the Isar River. A manmade wave has been created on one section.
10:00am-10:30am : English Garden
English Garden is one of the largest public parks in the world. Covering an area of about 370 hectares (910 acres), it stretches from the city center all the way to the northeastern city limits. Originally created in 1789 by inventor and physicist Sir Benjamin Thompson, the park was massively extended and improved by a series of his successors. The park's name refers to a style of informal landscape gardening popular in Britain in the mid-18th century. Wander the area to see a number of eye-catching temples, teahouses, pavilions, and pagodas. The park's main features are its meadows and ponds, which spread over a gently rolling terrain. Relax under the shade of trees or take advantage of nearly 80 km (50 mi) of biking and hiking trails.
11:00am-11:30am : BMW Welt
See the famous carmaker's latest products at BMW Welt. Constructed between 2003 and 2007, the state-of-the-art showroom attracted more than 2 million visitors during its first year alone. The facility is designed to be a marketplace and meeting point for automotive industry professionals, amateur fans, and anyone curious about the finer points of automobile-making. Visit the adjacent museum to learn more about the country's automotive history. The website details the range of guided tours.
12:00pm-12:30pm : BMW Headquarters
Declared a protected historic site in 1999, BMW Headquarters is an architectural icon in the city of Munich. The building's distinctive design is meant to resemble the cylinders in a car engine. The BMW museum is next to the headquarters. Visit the museum to learn more about the car company that is the pride of Germany and the building that became an emblem. Add a visit to the BMW Welt across the street to see the manufacturer's recent car designs on display.
1:00pm-2:00pm : Alte Pinakothek
Three museums, each highlighting a different period of art, are housed at Alte Pinakothek. The museums are within walking distance of each other, so you can easily explore all three on foot or by bicycle. First, stop by one of the oldest art galleries in the country. It houses a collection of at least 800 masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the end of the Rococo period. Look for works by Durer, Rubens, and da Vinci, among others. Next, visit the gallery that displays about 400 paintings and sculptures from the 19th century. Highlights include works by Monet, Degas, and Renoir. Finally, explore the gallery opened in 2002 to display a vast collection of modern art. Here, you'll find notable pieces by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Warhol. Purchase a day ticket for all three museums online.
2:30pm-3:00pm : Pinakothek der Moderne
Pinakothek der Moderne houses four separate museums of modern art in over 22,000 sq m (5.4 acres). One museum displays items from the permanent collection of over 3,000 pieces of art from a range of genres. Another focuses on works on paper, with drawing and prints from the 15th century up to today. The architecture museum holds the largest collection of architectural drawings in Germany. At the International Design Museum Munich, see a selection of its 80,000 industrial design, graphic design, and arts and crafts holdings. Try to remember the route you take through the gallery rooms, as some visitors find the building a bit of a labyrinth.
3:30pm-4:00pm : Theatinerkirche St. Kajetan
Built from 1663 to 1690, Theatinerkirche St. Kajetan displays Italian high-Baroque style inspired by Sant'Andrea della valle in Rome and contains tombs of important members of Bavarian royalty. The style may strike you as quite Mediterranean for being in Bavaria. Note the twisted columns on the main altar, and consider making time for an organ concert. The towers measure 66 m (216 ft), and the dome is 71 m (233 ft).
4:30pm-5:00pm : Munich Residenz
Discover how Bavarian royalty lived and governed at Munich Residenz, the largest city palace in Germany. You'll be drawn in by its opulent architecture, elaborate room decorations, and displays from the former royal collections. The complex includes ten courtyards and 130 rooms. Built in 1385, the palace was originally a small, moated castle. The kings of Bavaria gradually expanded it to use as a private residence and an official seat of government. The renowned court theater here opened for public performances in 1795. The complex also houses the primary concert hall for Bavaria's famous symphony orchestra. Though you can't get a guided tour, you can pick free audio guides at the palace museum.
5:30pm-6:00pm : Heiliggeistkirche
Heiliggeistkirche is a Gothic hall church in Munich, southern Germany, originally belonging to the Hospice of the Holy Ghost (14th century).HistoryIt was remodeled in 1724-30 by Johann Georg Ettenhofer ; in the interior are Rococo frescoes and stucco ornament by the Asam brothers. After the demolition of the hospice buildings in 1885, Franz Lšwel added three bays at the west end of the church and gave it a Neo-Baroque facade. The church suffered severe damage during World War II and its interior furnishings were largely destroyed; extensive rebuilding and restoration was carried out after the war.The interior of the church was renovated in 1991.DescriptionOf the original Gothic church only the choir buttresses and the north wall of the nave remain.The tower (1730) has a lantern dome of characteristic Munich type. The Neo-Baroque facade shows use of elements borrowed from Viscardi's Trinity Church.The interior is aisled, with an ambulatory round the choir. The nave is barrel-vaulted, with small vaults over the windows. The aisles have groined vaulting.Among several items of art-historical interest in the church are: in the portico, to left and right of the main entrance, parts of a bronze memorial made in 1608 by Hans Krumpper for Duke Ferdinand of Bavaria, Infante of Spain; in the chancel, the high altar by Nikolaus Stuber (1730), with an altarpiece by Ulrich Loth depicting The Effusion of the Holy Ghost (1661) and two flanking figures of angels by Johann Georg Greiff (1729); in the right aisle, a series of wall paintings (1725) by Peter Jacob Horemans illustrating the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit; in the Kreuzkapelle, a late Gothic crucifix (1510); and, midway along the left aisle, an altar with an allegedly miraculous image of the Hammerthaler Madonna (15th century).
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