Like many cities, Munich is much more exciting when the weather is nice. If you’re staying in the Bavarian capital on a sunny day or weekend, you might want to try some of these outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that you’re in Germany: even if it’s warm and sunny, there’s always a good chance that the weather could change, so bring a light jacket or umbrella with you.
1 | Englischer Garten
More of a park than a garden, the Englischer Garten (English Garden) is bigger than New York City’s Central Park, and very beautiful! There are several nice Biergärten (beer gardens), the most famous of which is at Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower). The beer is a little pricey here, but, if it’s sunny, I highly suggest enjoying a Halbe (half liter of beer), or Mass (one liter of beer), by the tower.
The Chinesischer Turm
If you feel up to it, you can also rent a bike and cycle through the garden. Make sure to stop by the Eisbachwelle to see the Munich surfers, who are nearly always there (even when it snows).
2 | Neues Rathaus & Glockenspiel
Honestly, the Glockenspiel is one of the most overrated tourist attractions in the world, BUT the building that houses it, the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), is beautiful. It’s also right in the center of town at Marienplatz, so you can’t miss it!
The Glockenspiel at Altes Rathaus
3 | Viktualienmarkt
Just a five-minute walk from the Glockenspiel, you’ll find this beautiful little market, complete with a small beer garden. Sample some fresh Brezeln (pretzels), grab a Wurst (sausage), and a Radler (a mix of lager and lemonade), which is very delicious and refreshing!
4 | Sandemans Free Walking Tour
I’ve done this tour twice, and both times taught me a lot of interesting facts about the city. The guides will take you on a pleasant walk through the highlights of downtown Munich, and cover lots of the city’s history. The tour runs twice a day from the city center, so there’s bound to be a time that suits you!
5 | The Isar
The Isar is the river that runs through Munich. If you rent a bike, you can easily cycle along it for miles, or just get off at the S-Bahn station, Isator, and walk alongside it in either direction. Drinking in public is allowed in Germany, so be sure to stop along the way and grab a cold beer or Radler to enjoy.
The Isar
6 | Local Breweries
Munich is home to a huge number of Brauhäuser (breweries), which often have their own beer halls, too. The most famous of these is the Hofbräuhaus, which is always super crowded and a real tourist trap. I would suggest the Augustiner-Keller or Löwenbräukeller instead, as they both have pleasant outdoor areas. Löwenbräu is also great for rainy days, thanks to its impressive two-story indoor hall!
7 | Gärtnerplatz
This beautiful area is located near to the Viktualienmarkt. It’s home to some great restaurants and cafés, and the square is normally covered in colorful flowers.
8 | Schloss Nymphenburg
A 15 to 20-minute tram ride from downtown (tram 16 or 17) will take you to Schloss Nymphenburg (Nymphenburg Castle). You can book a paid tour around its rooms, but I would suggest just walking around the beautiful gardens, and enjoying the impressive exterior, for free. There are several cafés and gelato shops close by, where you can grab a snack for your walk.
The Nymphenburg Castle
9 | Hirschgarten
Once you’re at Schloss Nymphenberg, you’re not far from the Hirschgarten. With around 8,000 seats, this is the world’s largest beer garden. While the surrounding garden is unremarkable, the beer garden itself is fairly impressive, and you’re sure to get the local experience there, as not many tourists venture out that far, even though it’s fairly close to downtown Munich. If you really want to look like a local, stop at a grocery store or café to grab some snacks to enjoy alongside your drink. In Bavaria, you’re allowed to bring your own food to many beer gardens, as long as you buy the drinks there.
10 | Olympiapark
Home to the 1972 Summer Olympics, the Olympiapark is a beautiful area to wander around. Take a look at the funky bungalows that were built in the seventies, and are now available for rent (I used to live in one myself!). Alternatively, make your way to the top of the Olympic Tower for a great view over Munich.
Olympiapark
