About Munich

Munich

Munich (German: München), is the capital of Bavaria, Germany. Located along the Isar River, it was founded in 1158 at the site of an ancient monastery. It became the capital of Bavaria under the ruling Wittelsbach family. The city developed as a centre of music and theatre through the 19th century.

Today Munich is a trade, cultural, educational, and industrial centre known for its many museums and for manufacturing and beer and ale brewing.

Marienplatz

Marienplatz is often the first place people visit when they arrive in Munich. This is the main square (platz translates to space or square) in the heart of the old town. If you are picking up any tours during your time in Munich or need to get your bearings before heading to another part of town, you will likely meet or start with Marienplatz. 

Neues Rathaus

The Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) is almost impossible to miss in Marienplatz. This neo-Gothic building was completed in 1874 with intricate details that run along the 328-foot main facade. 

The Neues Rathaus houses the mayor and the city council, but it also has exciting things for tourists to see. Visitors can see Munich's history represented in the Glockenspiel, which has shows at 11 a.m., noon, and 5 p.m. in the warmer months. You can also take an elevator to the observation deck tower that sits 255 feet above the city to take in the views and even see the Alps on a clear day.

**City Gates**

You will likely enter Munich through one of the historic city gates found around town. These gates marked the entrances built along ancient city walls constructed in the 13th and 14th centuries. The goal of building a walled city was to protect residents from intruders, especially at night. Trade flourished when the gates came down during the day, but then closed up as the sun went down. 
There are four city gates to explore around Munich. Each has its own architectural history and intrigue. The closest one to see is likely Isartor, located just west of Marienplatz, but you are likely to find the others throughout your explorations.

**Frauenkirche**

One of the most recognizable Munich landmarks is Frauenkirche, which translates to the Church of Our Lady. The pillars of this church are immediately recognizable and the cathedral itself stands above the surrounding buildings. The city of Munich has specifically issued building height limits to keep the church visible.
This church was heavily damaged during WWII but was rebuilt and continues to be restored. Within this church, you can also see the grave of Holy Roman Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian (1282 - 1347).

**Nymphenburg Palace**

Nymphenburg Palace is located outside of the Munich Old Town but is still a popular landmark for many visitors. Visitors can take the Tram 17 from Karlsplatz and in approx. 20 min arrive to this baroque palace and enjoy the art and architecture of the era. In German, Nymphenburg Palace reads as Schloss Nymphenburg, which translates to Castle of the Nymphs. It was built in the late 17th century (with several add-ons since) and was used as a summer house for Bavarian royalty. The interior and exterior of Nymphenburg Palace are worth the visit. Along with sprawling rooms and highly detailed halls, visitors can walk around the palace grounds and explore Nymphenburg Park. If you're lucky, you might see an owl or some deer creeping through the woods.   If you want to spend a lot of time at Nymphenburg Palace, consider staying nearby. The Holiday Inn Express Munich City West is located just 12 minutes away, equidistant to the Munich city center.

**Munich Residenz**

You don't have to leave the city center to see palace grounds, and the Munich Residenz is one of the top recommended spots from locals. This city palace used to house the royal family from 1508 to 1918 but is now open to visitors. It has 10 courtyards and displays 130 rooms, many of which are filled with Renaissance art befitting the area. The vast majority of the Munich Residenz was destroyed during WWII; however, it was rebuilt over the years and is now restored to its former glory. 
Be sure to visit the treasury when you see this palace, with its stunning collection of jewels, goldwork, crystal objects and other items that will leave you dazzled.

Museums of Munich

Deutsches Museum Munich

The Deutsches Museum is one of the largest science and technology museums in the world. In around 20 departments, originals and models illustrate how technology and the laws of nature work. Here you can not only look at technology and science, but experience them first hand.

Click here for the Deutsches Museum Munich website.

Pinakothek der Moderne

Exhibitions of art, graphics, architecture and design

Housing four museums under one roof devoted to art, graphics, architecture and design, the Pinakothek der Moderne holds one of the largest collections of artworks in Europe. The trans-disciplinary approach and its “four-in-one” concept is visionary and widely unique!

Click here for the Pinakothek der Moderne website.

Lenbachhaus in Munich

The Lenbachhaus is famous for the world's largest collection of art by the "Blaue Reiter" (Blue Rider) group, around Franz Marc. See what paintings you can discover here.

Click here for the Lenbachhaus in Munich website.

Munich is a major attraction for shoppers in Germany and even around Europe. Lovers of luxury items or bargain hunters can find all they seek in the shopping oases, arcades and boutiques in the city. These 8 shopping hotspots in Munich leave nothing to be desired.

Click here for recommendations on shopping in Munich.

Discover the rich culinary heritage of Munich, Germany, where traditional Bavarian flavors seamlessly blend with international influences. This vibrant city boasts a diverse food culture that caters to every palate, making it a haven for foodies seeking unforgettable dining experiences.

Munich offers an array of options for food enthusiasts. From charming street markets serving fresh local ingredients to upscale restaurants showcasing innovative menus, there is something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty Bavarian lunch or craving global cuisine, this guide will provide you with all the information you need.

Night owls will find legendary clubs and young bars in Munich to party until late at night. Where to go in the evening in Munich depends on the preferred music genre and the desired audience - whether chic and fine or young and alternative. The music in Munich's discos and nightclubs ranges from electro, house and techno to indie, pop and hip-hop. Of course, nightlife also includes good drinks, concerts and festivals as well as trendy pubs.

Click here for tips and ideas on what to do in Munich in the evening.

ECHSA ANNUAL MEETING 2025

May 22-24, 2025 - Munich, Germany