Top 7 Things to Do in or near Munich, Germany

1.    Dachau 

During my first full day in Munich, I embarked on a journey to Dachau, a place of profound historical significance. I took a 20-minute train ride from Munich, which ironically broke down on the way there, but we got another train.

Once you arrive at the train station, you take a 10-minute bus ride to Dachau. It is free to get in, and you can pay for an audio tour, which costs around 2 – 4 euros.

I struggled with many emotions since Dachau served as a model for the other German concentration camps. You could still feel the heaviness of the energy here. I touched a wall while walking around, and for a moment, I felt strong emotions. I knew thousands of people touched this same wall and never made it out of the camp when it was finally liberated by U.S. forces in April 1945.

Though this was my trip’s most depressing experience, I still recommend going. I recommend taking your time when visiting and taking some breaks if needed.

And let yourself share your reactions to it! Soon after the Dachau experience, I met up with one of the people I mentioned previously in The People You Meet While Traveling: A Magical Time when I returned to my hostel. We had both gone there, just not together, and we ended up bonding over it.

2.    Neuschwanstein Castle (Cinderella Castle)

This was on my bucket list, though it is two hours away from Munich via car or train. My new friends, I made the night before drove with me to see the castle, which is really a must-do.

Neuschwanstein Castle, also known as Cinderella Castle is a 19th-century Romanesque-style castle built on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau in the Bavaria Alps! The first hour of the drive was on a highway, but the last hour is where you can see the charming Alps. My first time seeing the German Alps was magical, especially since the weather was moody. You can see the stunning castle in the distance. The anticipation of seeing the castle grow as we got closer was an experience.

I recommend getting your tickets in advance to visit the inside of the castle, which are 20.50 euros. Since we planned this trip less than 24 hours before our meeting, the tours to see the inside were fully booked, sometimes even months ahead.

If you really want to wander through a castle, the Hohenschwangau is your best choice since tickets were still available when we were there. But even if you can't get tickets, you can still wander the grounds of the castle and the small, charming town. You can hike to the castle from town or pay euros to take the bus.

3.    Marienplatz

This is the most magical part of Munich! Marienplatz, or Mary's Square, is the central square in the city center of Munich. Once home to jousting tournaments during medieval times, today, Marienplatz is the starting point for the city's main attractions, such as St. Peters Church and Viktualienmarkt.

You are also near countless restaurants, cafes, and shops! Enjoy walking around or doing a headstand if you feel adventurous at the New Town Hall, a Neo-Gothic architectural building. You can't miss it, since it is in the middle of the Marienplatz.

 4.    St. Peter’s Church

St. Peter's Church, with its 91-meter tower, is the oldest church in the city. It has the best view of Munich! The tower of St. Peter is right next to Marienplatz and costs about 5 euros to climb the 300 steps to see a 360-degree view of the city. It’s a workout, but the view from the top is worth it!

If you love seeing New Town Hall up close, you will enjoy seeing it from a bird's eye view as well as the surrounding areas like the old town and, on a clear day, the Alps! One thing to note is that the platform is narrow; you may have some issues passing people if it's crowded, but it is worth the trip!

Also, you are allowed to enter this church, which has numerous gold figures and art from the 17th and 18th centuries.

 5.    Viktualienmarkt

Next to Marienplatz is the top place to buy fresh vegetables and fruits. You can also enjoy some delicious food like Laberkase, which consists of very finely ground beef, pork, and bacon. Then, it's baked like a loaf of bread until it has a crunchy brown crust. At first, it didn't look that yummy, but it was good, especially if you put mustard on it!

Aside from the food, you can also wander around to find some excellent souvenirs.

6.    Beer gardens (Hofbraus, St. Augstine and Lowenbraukeller)

Munich has over 100 beer gardens; I swear I went to half of them! You should check out a few since each has a different atmosphere and experience. The ones below are my favorites!

Augustine Keller

Munich's oldest beer garden and brewery, opened in 1325. They still serve traditional Bavarian food. I had a few of their dishes, and I recommend getting any of them! You should also get their popular beer, Augustiner Helles, a super easy light beer.

Hofbrauhaus

Though it is very touristy, I recommend going. Otherwise, it would be a missed opportunity—like going to London but not drinking tea. It is a must-go with its fascinating history and its beer. Plus, it is near the city center and across the street from Augustiner Keller.

Lowenaukeller Biergarten

This is where I met my new friends and started our night of beer garden hopping. This place has great staff, food, and beer. You can enjoy sitting indoors and admiring the architecture or sitting outside in the garden filled with greenery.   

7.    Deutsches Museum

Usually, I don't check out museums during my travels, but I was invited by friends I made while in Munich. You will enjoy this museum! I walked around through 20 different exhibits, including science, technology, aviation, chemistry, and health! What I really enjoyed was that there were a lot of hands-on exhibits. If you have trouble being in a museum for an hour like me, this is a great place! It cost 15 euros to enter.

Let me know what your favorite adventure from this list is!