You could spend your entire visit to Munich exploring its museums and still only scratch the surface. Covering everything from automobiles to contemporary art, as well as the famed Oktoberfest, Munich’s museums offer incredible places to learn, see world-renowned paintings, and explore the grand rooms of historic palaces.
A great starting point for your museum tour in Munich is the Kunstareal art district. Located in the city’s vibrant student neighborhood, this area is home to many museums, galleries, and educational institutions, making it one of Europe’s most important cultural hubs.
Here are the unmissable museums in Munich.
Visit the Ultimate Car Showroom at the BMW Museum
Best museum for car enthusiasts
A brand synonymous with Munich, BMW has a large site in the northern part of the city. Visitors gain insights into the history and inner workings of the company at the BMW Museum, where they can also check out some of the latest and oldest models at their grand car showroom at BMW Welt.
Expect vast futuristic buildings and some walking to see everything. Moreover, dining options are available nearby, including one of Munich’s prestigious fine-dining establishments.
See Modern Masterpieces at Museum Brandhorst
Best museum for pop art
Covered in 36,000 colorful ceramic rods, the strikingly angular Museum Brandhorst is Munich’s hub for contemporary art. Inside, you’ll find modern masterpieces from the 1960s onward, including the largest collection of works by Andy Warhol in Europe and over 170 works by the American artist Cy Twombly.
This museum is also family-friendly, offering free activity booklets for children and tailored tours for families with infants.
Explore Science and Tech at the Deutsches Museum
Best museum for kids
Situated on an island in the river, the Deutsches Museum is a prominent landmark in Munich. The museum features 28 permanent exhibitions dedicated to science and technology, making it essential to plan your visit to see the highlights.
A favorite among local families is the Kinderreich area, designed for children ages 3 to 8. This interactive section inspires young minds through giant building blocks, light experiments, and a variety of hands-on activities.
Consider Identity and Culture at the Jewish Museum
Best museum for diverse perspectives
This freestanding, rectangular building with a glass-fronted ground floor is part of the Jüdisches Zentrum (Jewish Center). The museum examines the rich diversity of Jewish history, identity, and culture in Munich, which is home to Germany’s second-largest Jewish population.
Be Inspired by the Mountains at the Alpine Museum
Best museum for adventurers
Adjacent to the Deutsches Museum lies a smaller institution run by the German Alpine Club (DAV). The Alpine Museum transports you to the scenic nearby summits and documents the allure of the mountains, inspiring potential adventures.
Temporary exhibitions address broader issues such as climate change and mass tourism, while the museum’s library and archive are excellent resources for planning and research.
Travel Through Art History at the Pinakotheken
Best museum for art and design aficionados
All located within Kunstareal, the Pinakothek trio is among Munich’s most recognized institutions, featuring a range of art history spanning several centuries. Visit the Alte Pinakothek for European masterpieces, the Neue Pinakothek for Impressionists, and the Pinakothek der Moderne for a blend of design, architecture, art, and graphics.
Celebrate Graffiti at the Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art (MUCA)
Best museum for street art
The first museum of its kind in Germany, MUCA is dedicated to urban art and serves as a platform for discussions, films, and exhibitions that spotlight prominent artists.
Learn and Remember at the Munich Documentation Centre for the History of National Socialism
Best museum for modern history
Opened in 2015, this center is dedicated to education and remembrance, delving into the establishment and rise of national socialism in Munich. Its permanent exhibition reflects on the city’s past and explores significant inquiries through diverse media.
Marvel at Riches in the Residenzmuseum
Best museum for grand interiors
Featuring giant chandeliers and frescoed walls, the Residenzmuseum was once the royal residence at the heart of the city. Now, it serves as an exhibition space for government history and cultural displays.
Tour Beer-Based Exhibits at the Bier- und Oktoberfestmuseum
Best museum for Munich clichés
Of course, Munich has a beer museum. Housed in a historic 14th-century townhouse, this museum showcases a vast collection of beer-related memorabilia.
See Contemporary Pieces at the Haus der Kunst
Best museum for international exhibitions
Built in the 1930s, this neoclassical museum now emphasizes contemporary international artists, providing a stark contrast to its historical roots.
Admire Big-Name Artworks at Lenbachhaus
Best museum for German Expressionists
Lenbachhaus is well-known for its collection from the Expressionist group Der Blaue Reiter. This museum combines modern architecture with historic charm, offering a unique viewing experience.
Top Tips for Visiting Museums in Munich
The Long Night of Museums
Every October, many of Munich’s museums stay open late as part of Lange Nacht der Münchner Museen, allowing night owls to enjoy special events and tours.
Cost-Effective Options
If you plan on visiting multiple museums, consider purchasing a local city ticket, which can provide access to numerous museums at a discount.
Sunday Special Rates
On Sundays, many museums offer admission for just €1, and some are free year-round. If you’re looking to maximize your visits, Sundays are optimal!
