Famous Munich buildings

Famous buildings

Munich has many famous buildings for you to visit, all the buildings on this page are within walking distance of each other. The city centre is small and walkable. Tip: The Rathaus which overlooks the Marienplatz should be your first stop.

Rathaus - the new Town Hall

Built from 1867 - 1909 in Flanders Gothic style this is one of the most famous buidlings in Munich; its facade, over 300 feet in length, features strikingly elaborate stone ornamentation. Its 260-foot tower with carillon is, with St. Peter's Church and the twin towers of the Cathedral, one of the most distinctive features of the city's skyline.
It is an absolute must visit, and at 11.00 every day its clock runs a 15 minute display.

Address: Marienplatz U/S-bahn right in the centre of the pedestrian zone.

Altes Rathaus - old Town Hall

This is the most easterly building on Marienplatz square. It has a Gothic council hall and ballroom and the adjoining town hall tower has been reconstructed.

Address: Marienplatz U/S-bahn right in the centre of the pedestrian zone.

Isartor - Isar Gate

Munich was originally surrounded by a wall, which had four gates built into it. This is the most easterly of Munich's three remaining town gates and dates from the 14th century. Careful restoration has recreated the dimensions and appearance of the original structure. The Isar Gate accommodates the Valentin Museum.

Address: Isartor S-Bahn

Karlstor Stachus

This is another of the town gates and dates from the 14th century. Incorporated at the end of the 18th century into the square known as "Stachus" (officially Karlsplatz). Today it marks one end of Munich's primary pedestrian zone. Beyond the gate is a large fountain which is turned on during the Summer.

Address: By Karlsplatz at the Northern end of the pedestrian zone (S-Bahn / U-Bahn Karlsplatz / Stachus). It's about a two minute walk from the central railway station (Hauptbahnhof).

Olympiaturm - Olympic Tower

The Olympic tower was built for the Olympic games in 1973, along with the rest of the Olympic Park. At 951 feet high, it is Germany's highest television tower. It has a revolving restaurant at the top, and offers spectacular views. Definitely worth a visit.

Address: Olympiapark (U3 Olympiazentrum)