Marienplatz: reviews and practical tips

+13
recos
4.8/5 4 reviews
Marienplatz, 80331 Munich, Germany
Marienplatz, 80331 Munich, Germany
Marienplatz à Munich
Marienplatz

Visiting Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the central square of Munich, the capital of Bavaria. For centuries, this was the site of the city market. The name of the main fountain here, the Fish's Fountain, dates back to the Middle Ages and serves as a reminder of those origins. Today, it is a focal point for residents and travelers alike. The area is pedestrianized between Karlplatz and Marienplatz, lined with various shops and restaurants. At the center of the square stands the Marian Column. The statue of Mary holding the Christ child at its peak was erected to celebrate the end of the Thirty Years' War (1618 to 1648) and the Swedish occupation of the city.

Watching the Munich Glockenspiel

Since 1908, the carillon in the tower of the New City Hall of Munich has come to life daily at 11:00 am and 12:00 pm, with an additional performance at 5:00 pm during the summer. Its 16 figures and 43 bells reenact the wedding of Duke Wilhelm V to Renate of Lorraine, honoring a Bavarian victory during a tournament held on the square in 1568.

The New City Hall anchors the north side of the square. It was built between 1867 and 1909 in an ornate neo-Gothic style. The Old City Hall, which is nearly 400 years old, still stands nearby.

Best viewpoints at Marienplatz

While you are here, climb the tower of the New City Hall for a view over the old town and Marienplatz itself. Saint Peter's Church also offers a 360-degree panorama of the square and the surrounding area. To reach the observation deck, be prepared to climb the 306 wooden steps inside the church tower.

Reviews of Marienplatz

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Summary of 4 reviews
4.8/5
Average rating
+13
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.8
As a couple
4.8
With friends
4.8

Avygeo ranking

#424
in the world
#345
in Europe
#14
in Germany
#5
in Munich

Iconic square

Marienplatz is an impressive square thanks to its architecture and magnificent Gothic town hall. It is very lively, and you will find street musicians, souvenir shops, and traditional restaurants there. On the facade of the town hall, a puppet show tells the history of Munich. Make sure to check the schedule, as the shows only last a few minutes.

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A very lively historic square

The main square of the city. It is very crowded, but I enjoyed its lively atmosphere. Breweries, shops, bands of musicians, and even the Hofbräuhaus beer stand, the place is always buzzing. I would love to go back in winter to see the Christmas market. The New Town Hall is worth a look, even if I found it less well-maintained than the ones in Brussels and Vienna, which are in the same style. Conversely, the Old Town Hall has been completely renovated, although it is less striking than its neighbor. There is a small toy museum inside, which really is not essential to visit.

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Pedestrian square in the heart of the city

Very lively and busy, surrounded by spectacular buildings like the city hall. Speaking of the city hall, come watch the glockenspiel show that comes to life every day at 11 am and 12 pm, and even 5 pm in the summer. Mechanical puppets act out the history of Munich.

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A Bavarian beauty

I still remember the first time I visited Munich. Arriving here, I told myself "impressive." And I mean it, because you walk through small streets and suddenly you stumble upon this magnificent square. It really has an impact!

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