Marienplatz Munich ⇒
Enjoy & discover the city's history

Imagine you are standing in the middle of a square, surrounded by magnificent historical buildings and a mix of tourists, locals, and street artists. The chime of the famous town hall tower echoes through the air, capturing everyone's attention. Welcome to Marienplatz in Munich, the vibrant heart of the Bavarian capital. Here, history, culture, and modern life come together to create an unforgettable experience.

• The impressive architecture of the New Town Hall with its famous carillon
• The historic Mariensäule and its significance
• Shopping opportunities and culinary highlights in the area
• Insights into the history and development of Marienplatz

The Marienplatz was founded in 1158, at the same time as the city of Munich itself. From the very beginning, it served as the central marketplace of the city, where merchants offered their goods and citizens did their shopping. In the 19th century, the Marienplatz underwent significant transformation. The Old Town Hall, which originally dominated the square, was replaced by the impressive New Town Hall. This change reflects Munich's transition from a medieval town to a modern metropolis. Today, the square is a symbol of the union of tradition and progress.

The Marienplatz is not only a historical place but also a center for shopping, dining, and leisure activities. Whether you want to shop in the numerous stores, are looking for a good dinner, or just want to do something with your loved ones: Munich's Marienplatz offers you the opportunity.

Shopping as far as the eye can see

In the surrounding streets, you will find numerous shops, boutiques, and department stores. The pedestrian zone Kaufingerstraße leads directly away from Marienplatz and is one of Germany's most famous shopping streets. Especially noteworthy is the department store Ludwig Beck, known for its exclusive fashion and high-quality goods. The nearby Viktualienmarkt also offers a variety of fresh foods and regional specialties.

Top 5 Shopping Options

1. Ludwig Beck Department Store: Located directly at Marienplatz, Ludwig Beck offers a wide range of fashion, cosmetics, music, and much more over several floors. The store is especially known for its exclusive fashion department and excellent customer service.
2. Oberpollinger: Just a few minutes' walk from Marienplatz is the luxury department store Oberpollinger. Here, you will find international designer brands, high-quality cosmetics, and exclusive accessories across multiple floors. A visit is worthwhile for anyone looking for luxury and quality.
3. Hugendubel: Also located directly at Marienplatz, the bookstore Hugendubel offers a large selection of books, magazines, and stationery. With cozy reading corners and regular events, Hugendubel is a paradise for book lovers.
4. Sport Schuster: For outdoor and sports enthusiasts, Sport Schuster is the go-to place. Over several floors, you’ll find everything a sports lover could want—from high-quality equipment to functional clothing for various sports and outdoor activities.
5. Viktualienmarkt: The Viktualienmarkt is not only a culinary highlight but also a great place to buy fresh groceries, flowers, and regional specialties. The multitude of stalls offers a rich selection of products that make every visit an experience.

After an extensive shopping day, you can recharge in one of the many restaurants and cafés around Marienplatz. Here you will find a wide range of culinary offerings, from traditional Bavarian cuisine to international specialties.

The Top 5 Restaurants and Cafés

1. Café Glockenspiel: With a splendid view of Marienplatz and the famous Glockenspiel, Café Glockenspiel not only offers a great view but also a wide selection of delicious food and drinks. Here you can enjoy both a hearty breakfast and tasty cakes and pastries.
2. Ratskeller München: Located directly beneath the New Town Hall, the Ratskeller offers traditional Bavarian cuisine in a historic setting. The hearty dishes and rustic atmosphere make the Ratskeller highly recommendable.
3. Dallmayr: The delicatessen and restaurant Dallmayr is synonymous with exquisite gourmet food and fine dining. In the on-site restaurant, you can enjoy exquisite dishes prepared with fresh and high-quality ingredients in an elegant atmosphere.
4. Restaurant Zum Franziskaner: Here you can expect hearty dishes such as pork knuckle, white sausages, and pretzels, accompanied by freshly tapped regional beer. The cozy atmosphere completes the experience.
5. Viktualienmarkt: Although not a classic restaurant or café, Viktualienmarkt offers numerous stands with a variety of culinary delights. Here you can enjoy fresh regional products, international specialties, and typical Bavarian treats on-site.

When the Marienplatz transforms into a festively illuminated winter landscape, it is once again time for the famous Christkindlmarkt. This traditional Christmas market, held every year during Advent, is one of the oldest and most beautiful of its kind in Germany. The market in Munich has been around since the 14th century.

What to expect at the Christkindlmarkt

• Traditional craftsmanship: Numerous stalls offer handmade Christmas decorations, wooden toys, nativity figures, and other artistic gifts.
• Culinary delights: Enjoy the variety of Bavarian and Christmas cuisine. From bratwurst and candied almonds to gingerbread and stollen.
• Gingerbread hearts and mulled wine: No visit to the Christmas market would be complete without a sweet gingerbread heart or a hot cup of mulled wine.
• Christmas music and entertainment: Regular concerts and performances take place on the stage in front of the New Town Hall. Choirs, brass bands, and other artists provide an atmospheric musical backdrop.
• Children's program: For young visitors, there are special attractions such as carousels, a nativity scene with real animals, and interactive activities to make the wait for the Christkind more enjoyable.

All events at Marienplatz, including times:
 

• In 2005, Marienplatz was ranked 8th in an international ranking of the most beautiful squares.
• The New Town Hall stretches over a length of 100 meters and has 400 rooms.
• The Glockenspiel of the New Town Hall consists of 43 bells and weighs a total of 7 tons.
• The Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz, which takes place every year during the Advent season, attracts over three million visitors.
• In the Middle Ages, Marienplatz was the site for knight tournaments and executions.
• Since 1972, Marienplatz has been a car-free area to enhance the quality of stay for pedestrians.

There are no fixed opening hours for your visit to Marienplatz, as the square is freely accessible. However, you should pay attention to the schedule of the Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall if you want to experience this highlight.

Opening Hours

Admission Prices

Visiting Marienplatz and the Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall is free of charge. However, fees may apply for special tours or access to certain areas of the Town Hall.

The Marienplatz in Munich is more than just a central square; it is the vibrant heart of the city, a place full of history, culture, and modern life. From the impressive architecture of the New Town Hall and its fascinating carillon to the historic Mariensäule and the diverse shopping and culinary options – there is something for everyone here. A visit to Marienplatz provides a comprehensive insight into the life and history of Munich and is an unforgettable experience that you shouldn't miss.