Marienplatz travel guide

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Introduction to Marienplatz

Discover one of the most famous attractions in Munich with this Marienplatz travel guide! Gain insights about how and when to visit this public square and uncover details that make Marienplatz truly unforgettable.

With an impressive average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 110,000 visitors, Marienplatz ranks among the best places to visit in Germany and the top things to do in Munich.

Plan your trip to Marienplatz with ease through fully customizable travel packages to Munich that bundle personalized itineraries and curated experiences into one convenient booking. As you explore Marienplatz, you'll delve into Munich's wonders and heritage and, by extension, gain a deeper understanding of Germany.

History of Marienplatz

Marienplatz, the heart of Munich, has a rich history dating back to 1158. It was established by Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony and Bavaria. Originally known as 'Schrannen', this market square was renamed 'Marienplatz' (Mary's Square) in 1638, during a time of plague, in honor of the Virgin Mary.

Over the centuries, the square has been a hub for commercial activities and public events like tournaments and markets. The square is home to two of Munich's most iconic landmarks: the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) and the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), which showcase the city's architectural evolution from Gothic to Neo-Gothic styles.

The square was largely pedestrianized in 1972 in preparation for the Munich Olympics, enhancing its appeal to visitors. Today, Marienplatz is a vibrant blend of history and modern city life, hosting events like the famous Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market) and the Glockenspiel show. Whether you're a history buff or simply enjoy stunning architecture, a visit to Marienplatz is a must when in Munich.

Unique features of Marienplatz

Marienplatz features two town halls: the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), a stunning neo-gothic building that dominates the square with its 85m tall tower, and the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus), which now houses the Toy Museum. Every day at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., visitors gather to watch the Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall tower, a mechanical show that recounts two stories from the 16th century with 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures. At Christmas, Marienplatz transforms into a magical scene with one of the largest Christmas markets in Germany, complete with twinkling lights, festive stalls, and a gigantic Christmas tree. The square is also home to the Fish Fountain (Fischbrunnen), a popular meeting spot, and the Mariensäule, a Marian column topped with a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, which symbolizes the city’s dedication to the Holy Mother.

Located in Munich, Germany

Discover Marienplatz, a prime feature of Munich, in the vibrant Altstadt-Lehel. Marienplatz is situated at Marienplatz, 80331 München, Germany, just a short distance from Rathaus-Glockenspiel and Toy Museum Munich, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Marienplatz, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Munich, a city in Germany rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Munich to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Marienplatz. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Munich travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

How To Get To Marienplatz

Marienplatz is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Munich, Germany. If you're flying in, Munich Airport is approximately 17.8 miles (28.7 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Marienplatz by taxi or shuttle.

Its exact address is Marienplatz, 80331 München, Germany.

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

Best time to visit Marienplatz

The best time to explore Marienplatz in Munich largely depends on what you're seeking from your visit. For those keen on pleasant weather and fewer crowds, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal. These periods offer moderate temperatures and the city isn't as heavily populated with tourists as in summer. If you're a fan of vibrant festivities, plan your visit during the Christmas season. The whole square transforms into a traditional Christmas market, Christkindlmarkt, with festive decor, food stalls, and unique Bavarian crafts. Visiting in late September to early October allows you to experience the world-famous Oktoberfest. However, these events mean larger crowds, so prepare for a bustling atmosphere. Regardless of when you visit, try to reach the square by 11 am or noon to witness the Glockenspiel chime, a unique spectacle. In essence, the best time to explore Marienplatz depends on your preference for crowd size, events, and weather.

Marienplatz Travel Plans

Photo of St. Luke's Church Lukaskirche, and isar river in summer landscape of Munich, Bavaria, Germany.

If you're looking for an effortless way to explore Marienplatz, perfectly planned travel packages to Munich make it easy and enjoyable, all while keeping costs manageable. With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Munich, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Marienplatz.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic public square in Germany.

Top Marienplatz Travel Plans

Travelers visiting Germany and wanting to experience Marienplatz can choose the 7-Day Germany Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Berlin traveling south to Dresden, Nuremberg, and Munich. This all-in-one vacation offers adventure-packed days with visits to famous sites, along with recommendations for the best activities to enjoy along your route.

Another popular option that highlights Marienplatz is the 10-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Germany and the Czech Republic With Itinerary from Berlin to Dresden, Prague, Munich, and Nuremberg. With its thoughtfully curated itinerary, this package ensures you’ll return home with a camera full of unforgettable memories from your iconic journey through Germany.

Whatever your travel style, you can look forward to a seamless visit to Marienplatz with these carefully curated travel plans.

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Car Rentals Near Marienplatz

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Other Top Attractions in Munich

Beyond Marienplatz, Munich boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From park to museum, the top attractions in Munich offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Munich is Olympiapark München, located at Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21, 80809 München, Germany. This well-known park enhances your time in the city.

It's a popular park that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Munich, Germany.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to BMW Museum completes any trip to Munich. This museum draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Am Olympiapark 2, 80809 München, Germany, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Munich below to discover even more incredible places to explore.

Map of Attractions in Munich

Your next adventure is waiting for you in the city of Munich. Explore the map to discover all the popular attractions you’ll visit on your unforgettable vacation in Germany.

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