Munich and Marienplatz
The heart of Bavaria's capital - a grand central square with a famous mechanical glockenspiel, beer halls and markets, gateway to Alpine Germany.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
Marienplatz is the heart of Munich, the capital of Bavaria, a grand central square dominated by the ornate New Town Hall whose famous glockenspiel sends painted mechanical figures dancing on the hour. Around it spread the old town, the great churches, the bustling Viktualienmarkt food market and the legendary beer halls, making it the gateway to prosperous, cheerful, Alpine southern Germany.
What you actually see
- The glockenspiel - the mechanical figures that dance on the Town Hall clock.
- The beer halls - the famous Hofbrauhaus and the Bavarian beer culture.
- The Viktualienmarkt - the lively central food market.
- The churches and Residenz - the Frauenkirche towers and the royal palace.
When to go
Late spring to autumn for warm weather and beer gardens; late September for the Oktoberfest; December for the Christmas markets. The glockenspiel plays at set times through the day.
Honest expectations
During the Oktoberfest the city is packed and prices soar, so plan around it either way. The glockenspiel, while charming, is a brief and much-hyped spectacle. Munich is prosperous and can be pricey. It is best as a base for the city and the Alps beyond.
Nearby
The Nymphenburg Palace and the English Garden are in the city; the Alps and Neuschwanstein are within reach.
What to pack for Munich and Marienplatz
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
