Best Free Activities to Enjoy in Munich
While there aren’t many bargains in Munich, there are surprising opportunities for unique activities and sights that are completely free. Whether you’re a music lover, car enthusiast, or a fan of soccer, gardens, history, or architecture, Munich has a free experience waiting for you. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best of them.
1. Experience Live Music at Olympiapark
A trip to Olympiapark, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympic Games, is simply delightful, especially in warmer months when you can catch free concerts. Throughout August and during one weekend in June, the Theatron Festival showcases an array of live bands at the amphitheater next to the Olympic Lake, featuring genres from hip-hop to gospel.
Better yet, bring a blanket and enjoy the music from atop the Olympiaberg. The hill, which stands at 564m (1850ft), offers a great viewpoint adjacent to the roofless Olympiastadion, where international acts often perform.
2. Admire Luxury Cars at BMW Welt
If you are passionate about automobiles, you won’t want to miss BMW Welt, located near the Olympiastadion. This vast showroom allows visitors to admire an impressive lineup of vehicles, including sedans, racing cars, and even electric models.
The modern, glass, and steel structure is an architectural wonder. While entrance to the showroom is free, there is a fee to access the adjacent BMW Museum.
3. Escape the City’s Bustle at Englischer Garten
Englischer Garten (English Garden) is larger than London’s Hyde Park and Central Park, making it a stunning urban oasis. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque Kleinhesseloher See (a serene lake), ideal for sunbathing or picnics.
Among the park’s highlights is a traditional beer garden surrounding the iconic Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower), a beautiful five-tiered wooden pagoda.
Planning tip: Look out for authentic Japanese tea ceremonies at the Japanisches Teehaus, which occur twice a month from April to October.
4. Watch the Eisbach Surfers
In a unique twist, Munich is known for surfing! At the southern end of the Englischer Garten, spectators gather on the bridge to watch surfers ride the waves of the Eisbach, a fast-flowing creek.
Planning tip: Although inviting on hot days, swimming in the river is dangerous due to its strong currents.
5. Explore the Asamkirche
Asamkirche is a hidden rococo gem that often goes unnoticed by visitors. Tucked between bustling streets, this exquisite church features rich decorations crafted by the artist brothers Cosmas Damian and Egid Quirin Asam.
6. Enjoy the Atmosphere at Hofbräuhaus
A visit to Hofbräuhaus, the world’s most renowned beer hall, is essential for anyone in Munich. While enjoying the lively ambiance, feel free to wander through the halls adorned with painted vaulted ceilings while listening to the entertaining oompah band.
As you explore, remember the significant history tied to this venue; it is where the National Socialist Party held its first large gathering in 1920.
7. Attend Free Events at Gasteig
While not the most aesthetically pleasing building, the Gasteig cultural center is renowned for its fantastic acoustics. Enjoy free concerts showcasing talented students from the Academy of Music and Theater, typically held during lunchtime and early evening.
8. Discover the Royal Grounds at Nymphenburg Park
The sprawling gardens surrounding Schloss Nymphenburg provide a taste of royal grandeur. Visitors can stroll along scenic paths featuring various water features and a lovely canal that transforms into an ice rink during winter.
While the grounds are free to explore, the opulent interiors of the palace do require an admission fee.
9. Watch FC Bayern München Train
Viewing world-class soccer players in training is a thrilling experience available to the public at no cost. These sessions, held at the team’s headquarters, generally occur several times a week.
Check FC Bayern München’s official website for the training schedule before planning your visit.
This article highlights the best free activities to experience while exploring the vibrant city of Munich. From lively musical performances to stunning parks and historical sites, there’s plenty to enjoy without spending a euro.
