Your guide to Munich / Things to do if you only have 24/48 hours in Munich

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If you have only 24 or 48 hours in Munich, you must try one of the iconic beer gardens. Hofbräuhaus is located right in the heart of Munich and is a must-visit when in the city. This state-run beer house gives you a glimpse into the importance of beer in Munich. Reminiscent of traditional Bavarian, this beer house dates back to the 1600s and features many of the same traditions and practices. 

They accept beer tokens for payment, have table reservations that extend over 100-years, and they continue to serve an authentic Bavarian menu. On most afternoons and evenings, you can also enjoy live music with dancing performances. In addition to the carefully brewed beer, the Hofbräuhaus also serves fresh salads, homemade soups and a long list of sausage specialties.

Marienplatz 1

Head over to Marienplatz to enjoy a day outdoors viewing the historic architecture of Munich. Although commonly known as the cities' transit hub, Marienplatz is also home to the New Town Hall, the city's government council and the Carillon. The Carillon is a tower with 43 bells and 32 mechanical figurines that rotate, chime and reenact historical performances to the sound of the bells.

Make sure you also check out the fish fountain which sits right at the front entrance to the New Town Hall. The fountain is often used for Munich traditions like the butcher jump and purge washing on Ash Wednesday of each year. It has also become a popular meeting place for old friends, partners and business colleagues.

English Garden: Englischer Garten 3

Seehaus Restaurant: Kleinhesselohe 3

Japanese Teahouse: Prinzregentenstrabe 1

With over 900-acres of well-manicured land and large, mature trees that offer ample shade, the English Garden is one of the largest and most beautiful urban parks in the world. You will often spot cyclists, walkers and many locals and visitors spread along the lawn enjoying the surrounding beauty of the park. You can also enjoy waterfront views of the Isar and Oberstjägermeisterbach. Within the park, you will also find the Seehaus restaurant, The Japanese Teahouse, and four beer gardens.

Market entrance: Viktualienmarkt 3

Haxnbauer im Scholastikahaus: Sparkassenstrabe 6

Viktaulienmarkt is not only a great place to shop for a Munich souvenir, but you can also find traditional Bavarian cuisine, cold drinks and ample shaded trees to sit and people watch. The farmer's market is a popular choice for both locals and tourists and carries exotic ingredients from all over the world. You can also grab a bite to eat at the Haxnbauer im Scholastikahaus, where you will find a unique modern-day twist on traditional Munich dishes.

Rindermarkt 1

St. Peter's Church offers a memorable look into the history of Munich. You can take a guided tour of the church's beautiful architecture that dates back to the 11th century. With golden accents and hand-carved wood throughout, you won't find much else like it today. You can also climb the 306 steps to the church tower which gives you breathtaking views that overlook downtown Munich and Marienplatz. 

Königsplatz 1

Maxvorstadt, also often referred to as the arts and university district, or the "Brain of Munich", is home to seven of Munich's universities, as well as numerous museums and art galleries. The Antikensammlung displays the museum of state collection of antiques. The Glptothek features artistic Roman and Greek collections from King Ludwig. You can also check out the Lenbachhaus, the Museum Brandhorst, and Neue Pinafore. 

Nymphenburger Str.2 

After you have spent the day exploring the many museums in Maxvorstadt, you will work up quite an appetite. Löwenbräukeller is a popular beer garden, located right in the Maxvorstadt district. The unique open kitchen means you are encouraged to sit with your neighbors and enjoy a good meal together. The menu includes traditional Bavarian cuisine with a dedication to sustainable ingredients. You can also grab a table in the beautifully decorated outdoor beer garden.