10 Must-See Places in Munich That Totally Blew Me Away

When I landed in Munich, I expected beer, bratwurst, and maybe a castle or two. What I didn’t expect was how much this city would impress me. Between its cozy charm and grand architecture, Munich totally took me by surprise.

Whether you’re here for history, food, or just wandering aimlessly (which I highly recommend), these 10 places absolutely stole the show.

1. Marienplatz

Let’s be real—this square is the postcard moment. Watching the Glockenspiel chime from the New Town Hall was one of those “wow, I’m really here” travel moments. The vibe is electric, especially around sunset when the buildings glow.

Come early in the morning if you want those empty-street shots for the ’Gram.

2. The English Garden

I wasn’t ready for how massive and peaceful this park is. Think Central Park, but with beer gardens, river surfers, and way fewer tourists. I grabbed a pretzel, sat by the stream, and just people-watched for hours.

Yes, people really do surf on the Eisbach wave. It’s wild.

3. Viktualienmarkt

This open-air market is foodie heaven. Cheese, sausages, fresh juices, and Bavarian snacks you’ve probably never heard of—I tasted everything. It’s lively, colorful, and totally photogenic.

Don’t miss the flower stalls. They add serious Pinterest vibes to your trip photos.

4. Nymphenburg Palace

This place feels straight out of a fairy tale. The palace itself is gorgeous, but the gardens? Next level. I spent an entire afternoon wandering, and it still wasn’t enough.

Tip: Come early and bring snacks. It’s the perfect solo picnic spot.

5. St. Peter’s Church (Climb the Tower!)

The best city view in Munich, hands down. It’s a bit of a hike up the stairs, but once you see the red rooftops and the Alps in the distance, it’s all worth it.

Plus, it’s way less crowded than you’d expect for such a killer view.

6. Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall

Even if you’re not big on beer, this historic beer hall is an experience.

I sat at a communal table, ordered a massive pretzel and a Maß, and ended up chatting with a family from Austria. It was loud, lively, and honestly, one of the most fun nights of my trip.

Go for the energy, stay for the people-watching.

7. Olympiapark

Built for the 1972 Olympics, this spot is full of surprises. I climbed the hill for panoramic views, walked around the lake, and even caught a local festival while I was there.

It’s a great break from the historic core of the city—and the sunsets here? Unreal.

8. Asam Church

Blink and you might miss it—but you shouldn’t. This tiny baroque church is mind-blowingly ornate. Every inch is decorated, and stepping inside feels like entering a jewelry box made of gold and frescoes.

I gasped. No shame.

9. Residenz Museum

If you’re into royal drama and over-the-top decor, this place delivers. I wandered through room after room of chandeliers, painted ceilings, and old Bavarian treasures. It’s massive, so take your time.

Definitely one of Munich’s most underrated gems.

10. Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

This one hit me hard—but in the best, most human way. It’s just outside Munich and offers a powerful look into Germany’s history. I walked through the grounds in silence, taking it all in.

If you have the emotional space for it, it’s a must. Traveling solo made it even more impactful.

Final Thoughts: Why These Spots Left a Mark

These weren’t just tourist stops—they were places where I felt something. Awe. Reflection. Joy. Peace. That’s what makes travel unforgettable.

If you’re planning a trip to Munich, save this list. Better yet, turn it into your own self-guided walking tour—you won’t regret a single stop.