Last Updated on August 4, 2024 by Soumya
Munich is a beautiful city. Filled with history, architecture, and great food, it was one of my favorite places to visit in Bavaria, Germany.
However, the one thing about the city that had all my heart (and will probably have forever) was its historic center: Marienplatz of Munich, Germany!
Marienplatz, or Mary’s Square, is ancient and one of Munich’s most iconic attractions. It has been the city’s main square since the 12th century and the venue for all sorts of markets, tournaments, and celebrations. Strolling through Marienplatz in old town Munich is like walking through 1,000 years of history.
There is so much to do and see at Munich’s Marienplatz that you can easily spend a day there. In fact, that was what we did during our two days in Munich; we spent one entire day in Marienplatz. I would still not say that I saw it all!
If you plan to spend just one day in Munich, I highly recommend exploring Marienplatz with this ultimate travel guide so that you do not miss out on the best that Munich’s central square has to offer.
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Brief History of Marienplatz Munich
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Henry III, Duke of Saxony and Bavaria, founded Munich in 1157. Marienplatz, which was the meeting point of many important streets, has functioned as the city’s main square ever since.
Initially, the square was just called Markth (market) or Schranneplatz (grain market). It got its current name after a Marian Column was erected here to mark the end of Swedish occupation in 1638.
A good part of Marienplatz was destroyed during World War II. Many medieval buildings were reduced to shambles. Some were rebuilt, and others were lost forever. A few medieval buildings that you can still see today are the Munich Cathedral, Peterskirche, and Old Town Hall.
Today, this old but vibrant public square is one of the best places to visit in Munich and definitely a must-have on every German itinerary through Bavaria.
Best things to do in Marienplatz Munich
New Town Hall – Neues Rathaus
Probably the most impressive building on Marienplatz, the New Town Hall or Neues Rathaus is a fairly new addition. Apart from being the seat of the city mayor, this is also where FC Bayern Munich holds its victory celebrations.
It was built between 1867 and 1909 in the impressive Gothic-Revival style. The façade is tall and long, almost never-ending, which makes it the most dominating structure of the central plaza.
On weekdays, it is a good idea to step into the courtyard of the New Town Hall and explore some of its historic rooms. Be sure to check out the observation deck at the top of the tower, which provides splendid views of Munich city and Marienplatz. There are elevators here, and you will have to pay a fee, but the views are totally worth it. Click here for opening hours and admission fees.
✦ Pro Tip: Visitors often prefer the viewing deck at Peterskirche (I talk about it below), but if you do not wish to climb 306 steps there, be sure to check out the New Town Hall.
Glockenspiel
On the central tower of Neues Rathaus, you will find a 2-tiered carillon called Glockenspiel, which bursts into life every day at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. Also called the Rathaus-Glockenspiel, this mechanical clock is one of Munich’s main tourist attractions.
Hundreds of visitors, tourists, and locals alike gather below the tower every day to catch a Glockenspiel show at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. In the summer months, there is also a 5 p.m. show.
On the top half of the carillon, you will see the marriage of a Bavarian duke and a joust between knights. In the bottom half, you will see Cooper’s dance, which symbolizes courage in times of adversity.
Marian Column
Right in front of Neues Rathaus is the Marian Column that lends its name to the square. It was built in the year 1638 to celebrate the leaving of Swedish troops after the Thirty Years’ War in honor of St. Mary, the patroness of Bavaria.
A black column (more than 35 feet tall) stands in the middle of Marienplatz. On top of it, a golden statue of Mary stands, holding Child Christ in her left hand and a scepter in her right. This spot is still a place of veneration for locals.
Fish Fountain
You will also notice a small water fountain here that is a popular meeting place. Apparently, in the olden times, there was a fish market at this spot, so the fountain is called the Fish Fountain. I could also see a puffed-up fish statue on top of the fountain.
Old Town Hall – Altes Rathaus
On the eastern side of Marienplatz, you will notice another impressive structure – the Old Town Hall or Altes Rathaus.
Constructed in the early 14th century, the town hall has undergone several changes over its lifetime, incorporating Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and neo-Gothic styles. The hall includes a medieval city gate called the Talburgtor and a couple of interesting statues – Ludwig of Bavaria on the western façade and Henry the Lion (the same duke who founded Munich) on the eastern façade.
Until 1847, Old Town Hall was the seat of the city council. Then, it ran out of space. Today, it houses a historic toy museum with model trains, stuffed toys, and doll houses.
✦ Trivia: Here’s a not-so-savory fact. Altes Rathaus is home to the Grand Hall, which was Joeseph Goebbels’s speech venue in November 1938, right before Kristallnacht – a pogrom against Jews – began.
St. Peter’s Church – Peterskirche
Next up on the list is the iconic St. Peter’s Church on Peterskirche. Many often say this isn’t part of Marienplatz in Munich, but it is so teasingly close that I tend to disagree.
Just a minute away from Marienplatz lies Peterskirche, Munich’s oldest church. It is a Roman Catholic Church from the 11th century that was rebuilt and redecorated several times. The last redesign was probably in the 18th century in the Rococo style, after which it was badly damaged in WWII. Thanks to all restoration efforts, we can see this pretty church in all its glory today.
✦ Pro Tip: Be sure to step inside the church for some amazing frescoes on the ceilings, fascinating statues on the columns and walls, and a Baroque choir.
The church has a 300-foot tower, fondly referred to as Alter Peter or Old Pete, that you can see from anywhere in the city. The best part is that you can climb 306 steps to get to the viewing platform for some stunning city views.
Christmas Market
Every year, Marienplatz is home to Munich’s largest and oldest Christmas market. Whether it is for some fun Christmas shopping, to enjoy mulled wine and other Bavarian delicacies, or to simply look around, do drop by if you are visiting Munich in November – December.
📖 Read Next: Ultimate 2-Day Munich Travel Itinerary
Best things to do near Marienplatz Munich
Munich Cathedral – Frauenkirche
Frauenkirche, or the Cathedral Church of Our Lady, is one of the most famous churches in Munich. Its two towers, topped by green domes, are especially remarkable and make Frauenkirche one of the most iconic Munich landmarks.
This impressive late Gothic cathedral was built in the late 15th century. It has more than 20 individual chapels and is the final resting place of many notable Germans, including members of the royal Wittelsbach family.
One thing that you should not miss when visiting Frauenkirche is the Devil’s Footstep or a black mark on a tile resembling a footprint. There are some interesting legends behind how this footstep came to be.
Also read: 11 Stunning churches of Munich that you need to visit
Viktualienmarkt
To the southeast of Marienplatz, there is a huge local market specializing in fresh food and exotic delicacies. This is the Viktualienmarkt or Victuals Market of Munich.
Sausages, herbs, wine, spices, flowers, fruits, and non-food items abound at Viktualienmarkt. If you are looking to get some souvenirs from Munich, make a stop at this market. If not, you can simply look around, people-watch, and eat at one of the many amazing restaurants at the Victuals Market. Some of my favorite restaurants are The Munich Soup Kitchen (this one closed, unfortunately!) and Sababa.
Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall
One of Munich’s oldest beer halls, Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall, is just five minutes away from Marienplatz. Whether you are a beer enthusiast or a history geek, you will love this place.
Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall was built in 1589 by a Bavarian Duke, which means this brewery is more than 400 years old. Come here for a sip of Hofbrau Original or some authentic Bavarian food; Hofbrauhaus will always be there for you. Yes, they are open 365 days a year, 9 a.m. to midnight!
Munich Residenz
To the north of Marienplatz lies the beautiful 400-year-old palace of the royal Wittelsbach family called the Munich Residenz. Apparently, this is the largest urban palace in Germany. Well, with 130 rooms, 10 courtyards, a church, and a theater, that statement sounds quite true!
Exploring Munich Residenz completely can take an entire day in Munich. If you don’t have much time and want to see just the highlights, here are the 3 rooms you should be looking at.
- The Antiquarium: This is the Hall of Antiquities and the prettiest room of Munich Residenz. Lavishly decorated with paintings, grotesques, and beautiful lunettes, this room is truly fit for kings. Feel opulence and luxury seep into your skin as soon as you enter the Antiquarium.
- The Treasury: Visit the Treasury for a shimmering display of jewelry, crystals, porcelain, bejeweled daggers, and the stunning royal insignia.
- Cuvilles Theater: One of the most stunning theaters that I have seen in Europe, this is where Mozart performed Idomeneo for the first time in 1781. If you wish, you can also enjoy a gala concert at Cuvilles. Make sure you reserve your space way ahead of the concert because seats get filled up really fast!
Medieval town gates
Medieval Munich had seven town gates. Three of them still survive: the Isartor (southeast of Marienplatz), Karlstor (northwest), and Sendlinger Tor (southwest). All date from the 14th century and are located within 10 minutes’ walking distance of Marienplatz.
Practical information for visiting Marienplatz
Munich hotels near Marienplatz
Staying close to Marienplatz or somewhere in Munich’s Old Town is a good idea because it can save you a lot on commuting costs.
- BEYOND by Geisel: For stunning views of the plaza and luxurious rooms. If budget is not a concern, go ahead and get yourself a room in the luxurious BEYOND by Geisel.
- Hotel Torbrau: A historic, 4-star hotel that is located only 5 minutes away from Marienplatz. You can walk to almost all the attractions from here. Click here to book your stay at Hotel Torbrau in Munich.
- Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels: This is a good budget option close to the city center with clean, comfortable rooms, modern décor, and friendly staff. Reserve your stay at Hotel Metropol now.
Getting to Marienplatz
Marienplatz is located in the heart of Munich Altstadt (Old Town). The exact address of the square is 80331 Munich.
The square is serviced by the Marienplatz station. Hence, it is easiest to get here by train. Both S-Bahn (S1, S2, S3, S4, S6, S7, and S8 local trains) and U-Bahn (U3 and U6 subway lines) trains make stops here.
If you need to get to Marienplatz from Munich Airport, you should consider the S1 and S8 trains. From Munich Central Station, the S1, S3, S4, and S8 are good.
Getting around Marienplatz
The easiest and best way to get around Marienplatz is on foot. Everything is at a walkable distance from the Marienplatz station and it is wonderful to experience the hustle and bustle of this old town square on your feet.
If you are looking for a guided tour, here are some great options.
Marienplatz FAQ
What is in the Marienplatz?
Marienplatz is home to iconic Munich attractions such as the Old and New Town Halls, Glockenspiel, Mariansaule, and St. Peter’s Church. It is Munich’s oldest public square and a great place to hang out with friends and family.
How old is Marienplatz?
Marienplatz is nearly 900 years old. It has functioned as Munich city’s main square since 1157 AD.
Why do people visit Marienplatz?
People visit Marienplatz to spend good time with friends and family, watch enchanting Glockenspiel shows, tour medieval churches and town halls, and get stunning city views from the observation decks at Alter Peter and Neues Rathaus. Several restaurants, cafes, and beer halls also dot the space in and around Mary’s Square, Munich.
When was Marienplatz founded?
Marienplatz was founded in the year 1157 when Henry the Lion laid the foundation of Munich city. First, it was called Schranneplatz, or grain market. People started calling it Marienplatz only after a Marian column was erected here in 1638.
What is the city center of Munich?
Marienplatz, or Mary’s Square, is the city center of Munich.
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