Stachus travel guide

Often referred to as Karlsplatz, Stachus is one of Munich's most significant squares, boasting rich history. Its original name, Stachus, derives from the 18th-century pub 'Beim Stachus', owned by Eustachius Föderl. The moniker has stuck with locals, despite the square's official renaming to Karlsplatz in 1797, in honor of the Bavarian King Karl Theodor.

Stachus became more prominent in the 19th century when Munich's city walls were demolished, and it became a gateway to the city's historic center. In 1972, it underwent a significant transformation when the underground Stachus-Einkaufszentrum shopping center was built.

The square is also known for the Karlstor, one of Munich's old town gates, and the stunning neo-baroque Justizpalast (Palace of Justice). This fusion of history and modernity makes Stachus a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the essence of Munich.

Stachus, officially known as Karlsplatz, is more than just a bustling transport hub and shopping district. One of its unique features is the large fountain, a lively meeting spot in summer and a striking spectacle when illuminated at night. In winter, this area transforms into a magical ice-skating rink, attracting both locals and tourists. Beneath the square, the Stachus Passagen, Germany's largest underground shopping complex, provides a distinctive shopping experience with a range of boutiques, restaurants, and services. Another distinctive aspect is the Karlstor, one of Munich's remaining medieval gates, which marks the entrance to Munich's old town. This combination of historic architecture, modern commerce, and seasonal attractions makes Stachus a unique focal point in Munich.

Located in the dynamic Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, the popular Stachus is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Munich or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Germany.

Munich is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Munich offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Munich and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Olympiapark München, English Garden, BMW Museum, Deutsches Museum, and BMW Welt.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Munich has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Munich, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Germany!

Stachus is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Munich, Germany. If you're flying in, Munich Airport is approximately 18 miles (28.9 km) away from Munich. From there, you can easily reach Stachus by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Munich, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Stachus, which is located 0.5 miles (0.7 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Stachus, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Karlsplatz 1, 80335 München, Germany, Germany.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Stachus!

The best time to explore Stachus, a lively square in Munich, is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. The summer months, while beautiful, can be crowded with tourists. Visiting in the shoulder seasons offers a more relaxed experience and the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Stachus without the hustle and bustle. Furthermore, the square hosts various events throughout the year, adding to its appeal. In spring, you can witness the vibrant colors of the Fruhlingsfest, a traditional German spring festival. In the fall, Oktoberfest draws international crowds, but the square remains a tranquil retreat from the beer tents. Plan your visit to coincide with these events to make the most of your Stachus experience. Remember, though, that while winters are chilly, the Christmas markets transform the square into a magical winter wonderland, making it an equally appealing time to visit.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Stachus and Germany's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Munich Airport and the city of Munich, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Germany cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Munich and beyond.

Conveniently explore Stachus and plenty more captivating attractions in Munich by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Stachus and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Munich has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Stachus below.

Aside from Stachus, Munich is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Munich, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Olympiapark München, English Garden, and BMW Museum.

Olympiapark München is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Munich, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 69,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Olympiapark München is Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21, 80809 München, Germany.

Another appreciated attraction in Munich is English Garden. Like Olympiapark München, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars among 61,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this park is Munich, Germany.

BMW Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Munich. This museum and top attraction in Munich has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 36,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Am Olympiapark 2, 80809 München, Germany.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Munich below.