Munich Things to Do

A short hop across the border from Munich, the picturesque Austrian city of Salzburg makes a popular day trip from the Bavarian capital, tucked beneath the snow-capped Bavarian Alps. The hometown of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg is famed for its old-world sophistication, with grand concert halls and elegant shopping arcades tucked down cobblestone avenues and the glittering Salzach River running through its heart.

Whether you’re an art fanatic or a history buff, Munich’s many museums offer an abundance of fascinating exhibitions – the only question is where to start. Want to visit them all? Time your trip for the city’s famous Long Night of Museums, when Munich’s art galleries, museums and cultural venues stay open past midnight and host a series of species exhibitions and screenings.

As the official start of Spring the 1st May, or ‘May Day’, holiday has long been celebrated around the world and Munich is no exception. The city’s Maibaumaufstellen, or May Fair, is marked by a public holiday and a number of traditional Bavarian festivities take place.

Since opening its doors in 1836, the Alte Pinakothek, or Old Pinakothek, has made a name for itself as Munich’s premier art museum, home to an incredible number of classic works. With the focus on European paintings from the 14th to the 19th century, the museum’s original masterpieces include over 800 pieces, with a large number of works by legendary artists like Albrecht Dürer, Peter Paul Rubens and Leonardo da Vinci.

Munich’s legendary Hofbrauhaus beer hall is so renowned around the globe, that a number of international replicas have sprung up in its honor but nothing beats a visit to the original. First opened in 1589 by Duke William V to serve the aristocracy, the Hofbrauhaus became well known for its homebrewed beers and ales, and by 1610 was opened to the public.

Once you’ve finished admiring Munich’s medieval architecture, exploring its many museums and indulging in a pint (or three) in the city’s famous beer gardens, there are plenty of options for venturing further affield. From grand palaces to Mozart’s birthplace, these are some of the best day trips from Munich.