Did someone say beers? This German city has gained international recognition as the birthplace of Europe’s finest beer. Not to mention, Munich celebrates Bavarian culture through Oktoberfest which also attracts travelers from all around the world. Besides Oktoberfest, visitors found themselves captivated by Munich’s Baroque facade represented by Marienplatz and Nymphenburg Palace. However, this blog takes you to walk off the beaten path and flee away from the tourist crowds. Recommended by our local staff and travel experts, here are the 11 hidden gems in Munich for your itinerary.
Blutenburg Castle
Traveling to Bavaria equals visiting Neuschwanstein Castle and choosing Munich as the place to stay. However, only a few know that the capital of Bavaria keeps treasures belonging to the royalty. One of them is Blutenberg Castle, standing as a serene oasis just a stone’s throw away from Munich’s center. It dates back to the 15th century and was designed with a distinctive medieval facade.
Blutenburg Castle tells the story of Duke Albrecht and his successors. Duke Albrecht III utilized the castle as a hunting lodge by the River Würm. However, his son transformed the castle into his residence, highlighting its architectural and natural beauty. Aside from the castle, you can see a chapel built with an elegant late-Gothic style. It is one of the hidden gems in Munich that you should not miss.
Rathaus-Glockenspiel
Visitors would not miss Marienplatz when they are traveling to Munich. However, a lot of them overlook the astonishing clock tower or Glockenspiel. An adorable display of life-sized figures dances around the tower every time the clock strikes 11 AM. The daily show is not a mystery for locals, but it stays as one of the hidden gems in Munich for travelers.
So, if you have Marienplatz in your itinerary, stop near the center. Find Rathaus-Glockenspiel, which stands out with its striking Gothic facade tinted with emerald hues. Hear the chimes echoing around Marienplatz and see the 19th-century figures.
Lion Statues at Residenz Museum
A sprinkle of myth would do if you want to travel like the locals. Then, do a treasure hunt to find the lion statues at the Residenz Museum. These half-lion statues stand strategically at the entrance of Residenz. This is where the real excitement begins. You can delve into a myth that the locals have believed for centuries – rubbing the lion’s nose can bring wealth and good luck. So, are you interested in trying it out?
German Museum of Hunting and Fishing
From centuries-old hunting weapons to bizarre-looking taxidermy, the German Museum of Hunting and Fishing will blow your mind. It tells visitors all you need to know about the hunting and fishing history in Germany.
The museum comprises a 3,000-square-meter exhibition showcasing weapons, paintings, and stuffed animals. Besides animals like bears or elk, you can see unusual species that look alien. Find wolpertingers, a mammalian-avian monstrosity that looks like a winged chihuahua. Therefore, German Museum of Hunting and Fishing is one of the hidden gems in Munich that you should check out.
Munich Justizpalast
The Munich Justizpalast, or Palace of Justice, is a magnificent building that embodies the grandeur of neoclassical architecture with a Baroque twist. Built in 1897, it’s not just a courthouse but a testament to Munich’s architectural artistry. The Justizpalast was designed by architect Friedrich von Thiersch and remains one of Munich’s most iconic buildings. Its grand dome, decorative facades, and intricate stonework showcase the splendor of the late 19th century.
Moreover, the Hall of Justice is particularly mesmerizing, featuring a glass-domed ceiling that floods the interior with natural light. Another highlight is the imposing marble staircases that wind through the building. Also, don’t miss the courtroom that held the infamous White Rose trials during WWII.
Juristiche Bibliotek
You don’t need to travel to Scotland or London for a Harry Potter-esque scene. Interestingly, Munich has one that only locals know about. Head to the city hall and find Juristiche Bibliotek or Law Library. The small library features intricate wood carvings adorning its stairs and bookshelves. At a glance, the rustic library looks like a room Hogwarts would have.
Aside from the library itself, you should be excited about the route taking you to the library. It features arched corridors with antique hanging lamps as its decoration which takes you straight into a Harry Potter set. However, please note that sometimes this Munich hidden gem only opens for 15 minutes to the public.
Au-Haidhausen
Au-Haidhausen is a trendy area by the Isar River, where waterside green spaces have shady beer gardens and are popular for summer picnics. The vast Deutsches Museum showcases German technology, while the 1980s Gasteig cultural center presents an eclectic program of theater, film, and classical concerts. Old-school pubs mix with ethnic eateries, stylish wine bars, and rustic “Wirtshaus” taverns serving Bavarian food.
Museum of Beer and Oktoberfest
Beer is at the heart of Bavarian culture, and the Museum of Beer and Oktoberfest pays homage to this history with engaging exhibits and memorabilia. Housed in a historical building from the 14th century, the museum takes visitors through Munich’s beer history, from ancient brewing methods to the origins of the world-famous Oktoberfest. The museum showcases vintage brewing equipment, traditional costumes, and photos from Oktoberfests over the decades. Interactive exhibits, like beer tastings, provide a fun experience for visitors.
Rose Island
Rose Island, or Roseninsel, is a small island in Lake Starnberg, a short distance from Munich. Its picturesque setting and abundance of roses make it an idyllic escape from the city’s hustle.
King Maximilian II developed the island as a royal retreat in the 19th century. The island’s historic pavilion and lush gardens offer a romantic atmosphere with impressive views of the lake. In addition to roses, the island hosts a variety of plants and birds, making it a peaceful spot for nature lovers. The Pavilion Garden, with its roses, lavender, and fountains, is perfect for a tranquil stroll.
Bavarian Public Observatory
The Bavarian Public Observatory, or Volkssternwarte München, offers a rare opportunity to explore the cosmos. The observatory provides guided sessions where visitors can gaze at stars, planets, and galaxies.The observatory was established in the 1940s and continues to serve as a center for public astronomy education. It boasts advanced telescopes and expert guides who offer insights into celestial phenomena. The observatory hosts public viewing nights, where enthusiasts can observe the moon’s craters, star clusters, and sometimes even distant galaxies. Special events include meteor shower nights and eclipse viewings.
Hackerbrücke
Hackerbrücke, a bridge near the Munich Hauptbahnhof, is famous among locals as a prime sunset spot. As the sun dips below the horizon, it casts a golden glow over the city’s skyline. Hackerbrücke offers an unobstructed view of Munich’s historic buildings against the setting sun, making it a popular spot for photographers and romantics alike.
Arriving around sunset ensures you capture the best light. After the sun sets, the bridge’s atmosphere shifts, attracting musicians and artists who add a lively ambiance to the night. After enjoying the sunset, explore nearby restaurants like Augustiner Bräustuben for a hearty Bavarian meal. The bridge is also close to several beer gardens and cafés, ideal for a relaxed evening.
Exploring Munich and visiting its hidden gems is a great idea to spend your day-offs! You can admire at the neo-classical buildings, sample different kinds of beers, or visit the city’s quirky museums.
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