Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the beating heart of Munich and one of Germany’s most famous squares. Located in the city center, it has been the focal point of public life since 1158. Surrounded by historic buildings, charming cafés, and bustling shops, the square is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Bavarian capital.

At the center of Marienplatz stands the Mariensäule (Mary’s Column), a symbol of the city’s resilience. The New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) dominates the square with its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, while the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) adds to its historical charm.

A visit to Marienplatz is incomplete without witnessing the famous Glockenspiel, an enchanting mechanical show that draws crowds daily. Whether you’re admiring the architecture, shopping for Bavarian souvenirs, or indulging in local cuisine, Marienplatz offers an authentic Munich experience.

Make your visit seamless with our Munich Walking Tour with Marienplatz for a guided exploration of this historic square.

Marienplatz is more than just a picturesque square—it’s a cultural and historical landmark that offers something for everyone. Its stunning medieval and 19th-century buildings provide a glimpse into Munich’s past, while its lively atmosphere showcases the city's modern vibrancy.

The square is home to some of Munich’s top attractions, including the Glockenspiel, which re-enacts historical Bavarian tales with life-sized figures at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 5:00 PM. It is also the ideal starting point for exploring the city, as many iconic landmarks are just a short walk away.

Marienplatz also serves as the epicenter of Munich’s biggest festivals, including Oktoberfest celebrations, Christmas markets, and traditional parades. Experience the magic of this historic site with our Guided City Tour of Munich & Marienplatz.

A visit to Marienplatz is packed with exciting things to see and do. Start by admiring the New Town Hall’s intricate facade, which is adorned with stone figures, turrets, and statues. Step inside to discover the stunning vaulted ceilings and possibly take an elevator to the tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Munich.

The Glockenspiel show is a must-see, featuring 32 figures that re-enact Bavarian history, including the marriage of Duke Wilhelm V and a medieval jousting tournament. This daily spectacle lasts around 15 minutes and is one of Munich’s most beloved traditions.

Nearby, explore the Old Town Hall, a historic building that now houses the Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum), a charming destination for families and history enthusiasts. Take a stroll down Kaufingerstraße, one of Munich’s main shopping streets, where you can find everything from designer brands to traditional Bavarian crafts.

For a taste of Bavarian cuisine, visit the Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s famous open-air food market, just a short walk from Marienplatz. Enjoy local delicacies like Weißwurst (white sausage), pretzels, and freshly brewed beer.

If you’re interested in history, stop by St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche), the oldest church in Munich, offering a climb to its tower for spectacular city views. Another must-visit is Frauenkirche, Munich’s iconic twin-domed cathedral, which is just a few minutes away from the square.

Marienplatz is centrally located and easily accessible:

• Metro (U-Bahn): Take U3 or U6 to the Marienplatz station.
• Suburban Train (S-Bahn): Lines S1 to S8 all stop at Marienplatz.
• Bus & Tram: Several bus and tram lines serve the area, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the city.
• Walking: Marienplatz is within walking distance of many major attractions, making it a great starting point for exploring Munich.

For added convenience, book our Munich City Pass, which includes transportation and entrance to top sights.

Marienplatz is open 24/7 as a public square, but specific attractions within it have their own operating hours:

• New Town Hall: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (weekdays)
• Glockenspiel Show: 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 5:00 PM daily
• St. Peter’s Church Tower: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (winter), 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM (summer)

Skip the hassle of planning with our Munich Guided Tour with Marienplatz & Old Town.

To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive in the morning to witness the first Glockenspiel show and enjoy the square before it gets crowded. Spend time exploring the surrounding landmarks, shopping streets, and markets to fully experience Munich’s vibrant culture.

If you love history, consider joining a guided walking tour, which covers Marienplatz, the historic Old Town, and hidden gems that many tourists overlook. Wear comfortable shoes, as the area is best explored on foot, and bring a camera to capture the breathtaking architecture.

Visiting in December? Don’t miss the Munich Christmas Market, held in Marienplatz, featuring festive lights, wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, and delicious mulled wine.

For a perfect day, combine your visit with a trip to Hofbräuhaus, Munich’s legendary beer hall, where you can enjoy traditional Bavarian music, food, and drinks.

Marienplatz is surrounded by must-visit attractions that make it easy to extend your adventure. Head to the Residenz, the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, where you can tour its luxurious rooms and impressive art collections. Just a short walk away is the English Garden (Englischer Garten), one of the world’s largest urban parks, perfect for a relaxing escape.

Art lovers can visit the Pinakothek Museums, showcasing masterpieces from the Renaissance to modern art. If you’re a fan of cars, the BMW Museum and BMW Welt are a quick subway ride away, offering a glimpse into Germany’s legendary automotive industry.

For a stunning view of the city, climb the Olympic Tower (Olympiaturm), where you can enjoy a panoramic perspective of Munich’s skyline. If you’re interested in Munich’s darker history, take a short train ride to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, a sobering yet important historical site.

Book our Munich City Pass for access to multiple attractions near Marienplatz.

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring Marienplatz and its immediate surroundings, but those who visit nearby landmarks may spend half a day or more.