Marienplatz is the heart of Munich, Germany. This vibrant square is the center of the city and the site of many of its most famous landmarks. From shopping to sightseeing, Marienplatz offers something for everyone. Here are ten of the best things to do while in Marienplatz.
1. Visit the City Hall: Marienplatz is home to the iconic Munich City Hall. This neo-Gothic building was built in the late 19th century and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The building is open to visitors and offers a great view of the square from the top of its tower.
2. Try the Local Food: Marienplatz is home to some of the best restaurants in the city. Whether you’re looking for traditional Bavarian fare or international cuisine, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite. The square is also a great place to sample some of Munich’s famous beer.
3. Shop at the Viktualienmarkt: The Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s oldest and most famous market. Located just off Marienplatz, this open-air market offers a variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and other goods. It’s the perfect place to find a souvenir or a snack.
4. See the Glockenspiel: Marienplatz is home to the famous Glockenspiel, a large clock that plays a chime show every day at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. The show features 43 bells, 32 life-size figures, and two rotating tiers that depict stories from Munich’s history.
5. Take a Walking Tour: Marienplatz is the perfect starting point for a walking tour of Munich. There are many companies that offer guided tours of the city, or you can take a self-guided tour and explore the city at your own pace.
6. Visit the Churches: Marienplatz is home to two of Munich’s most famous churches. The Frauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, is a Gothic-style cathedral that dates back to the 15th century. The Peterskirche, or Church of St. Peter, is a Baroque-style church that was built in the 18th century. Both churches are open to the public.
7. Attend a Festival: Marienplatz is the site of many of Munich’s festivals. From Oktoberfest to the Christmas market, there are plenty of events to enjoy throughout the year.
8. Take a Ride on the U-Bahn: Marienplatz is a major hub for the Munich U-Bahn, the city’s subway system. Hop on the U-Bahn and explore the city from the comfort of a train car.
9. See the Mariensäule: The Mariensäule is a tall column in the center of Marienplatz that was erected in 1638 to commemorate the end of the Thirty Years War. The column is topped with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary.
10. People Watch: Marienplatz is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. Grab a seat at one of the many cafes and restaurants that line the square and soak up the atmosphere of the city.
Whether you’re looking for a bit of sightseeing or some retail therapy, Marienplatz is the perfect place to explore. With its rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder that Marienplatz is one of the most popular destinations in Munich.