Are you wondering what to do in Munich for free? It’s not a lie, Munich is the most expensive city in Germany. But you don’t have to pay hundreds of euros each day to enjoy your visit to the Bavarian capital. Munich offers a variety of things to do for free, allowing you to explore the city’s history, culture, and beauty without breaking the bank.
The 9 Best Free Things to Do in Munich
1. Visit BMW Welt
For car enthusiasts and anyone curious about innovation, BMW Welt is a must-visit destination in Munich. This impressive exhibition and event center showcases the latest BMW models, as well as futuristic car designs, in a sleek and interactive environment.
Best of all, entry to BMW Welt is free, allowing visitors to explore the cutting-edge technology and design of one of the world’s leading automotive companies without spending a penny. However, if you want to enter the BMW Museum, you will need to purchase a ticket.
2. See the Hidden Library in Munich
The Juridical Library in Munich is arguably one of the most beautiful libraries in all of Germany! Ripped right from the pages of your favorite fairytale, this impressive library is famous for its wrought-iron spiral staircase and towering walls of books. Although it is primarily used for lawyers and students, it is open to the public for visitation. Just make sure you’re being quiet and respectful to the people that are working there.
To visit the library, just head to the upper floor of the Munich New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). Yes – its the same building where the famous Glockenspiel is in Marienplatz!
3. Watch an FC Bayern München Practice
For football fans, watching an FC Bayern München practice is a thrilling, free way to experience one of the world’s top football clubs in action. Practices are open to the public and give you the chance to see the team train up close, showcasing the incredible skill and dedication of some of the world’s most talented athletes.
Whether you’re an avid fan or just curious about the sport, attending a practice at the club’s training facility offers an insider’s look into one of Munich’s most beloved sports teams. Check the club’s schedule to ensure you catch a practice during your visit.
4. Admire the Surfers on the Eisbachwelle
The Eisbachwelle, or Eisbach River, in the English Garden is one of Munich’s most unique and free attractions, where surfers take on the challenge of riding an artificial wave in the heart of the city. The wave is constant and has become a favorite spot for surfers from around the world – no matter the weather outside.
Watching surfers navigate the fast-moving water is a thrilling spectacle, especially on a sunny day when the park is filled with spectators. It’s a great way to witness the blend of nature, sport, and urban life in Munich, and it’s completely free to enjoy.
5. Relax in the Secret Gardens at Nymphenburg Palace
The gardens at Nymphenburg Palace offer a peaceful retreat away from the more well-known palace grounds. These beautiful, hidden gardens are a perfect place for a quiet stroll among manicured hedges, ornate fountains, and colorful flowers.
While many visitors focus on the grand palace, the gardens provide a more serene and intimate experience. It’s a hidden gem that offers a tranquil escape and a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature while being surrounded by history, all at no cost.
6. Feed the Deer in Hirschgarten
A unique and delightful activity in Munich is visiting Hirschgarten, a large park and beer graden where you can feed the deer. After all, Hirschgarten actually means “Deer Garden”! This urban park has a special area where deer roam freely, and visitors can interact with these gentle creatures through a fence. It’s a wonderful experience for families, animal lovers, or anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Munich.
The park itself is also a great spot for a leisurely walk, and with its spacious lawns and peaceful atmosphere, it’s an ideal place to relax and unwind while connecting with nature.
7. Catch the Sunset from the Hill in Olympiapark
For breathtaking views of Munich, head to Olympiapark and hike up the hill for a stunning panoramic view of the city, especially at sunset. The hill offers a sweeping view of the surrounding parks, the Olympic Stadium, and the distant Alps. It’s a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the beauty of Munich as the sun sets.
It’s free to access, making it a must-see for anyone looking for an unforgettable sunset experience in the city. The peaceful surroundings and expansive views provide a calming escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. So bring your blanket, some food, and a bottle of wine and enjoy!
8. Look around the Frauenkirche Cathedral
Frauenkirche, also known as the Church of Our Lady, is one of Munich’s most famous landmarks (the one with the twin towers) and is free to enter. The cathedral’s striking twin towers are an iconic feature of the city’s skyline, and inside, visitors can admire beautiful Gothic architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and the serene atmosphere.
9. Take a Dip in the Isar
When the weather gets warm, taking a dip in the Isar River is one of Munich’s most refreshing and free activities. Locals and visitors alike flock to the river to cool off, swim, or simply relax along its banks. The Isar is crystal-clear, and there are plenty of spots along the river where you can wade in, float on the current, or sunbathe by the water.
The river is accessible in several places around the city, and it offers a refreshing, natural escape—whether you’re in the mood for a swim or just want to relax by the water’s edge. Of course, you can also go on a colder day to chill, just don’t expect the waters to be warm enough to enjoy.
Popular Tourist Attractions that are Free to Visit in Munich
- The English Garden: One of the largest urban parks in the world, the English Garden is perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and watching surfers on the Eisbach River.
- Marienplatz: Munich’s central square, home to the famous Glockenspiel and beautiful architecture, where you can experience the heart of the city.
- Theatinerkiche in Odeonsplatz: A stunning Baroque church known for its grand architecture and interior, located in the vibrant Odeonsplatz square.
- Asamkirche: A small yet extraordinarily detailed Baroque church, showcasing intricate architecture and decoration.
- Viktualienmarkt: Munich’s famous food market, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, local specialties, and Bavarian delicacies in a lively outdoor setting. For an extra fee, you can also book a guided food tour which includes a sampling of different snacks!
- Courtyard of the Residenz: The beautifully designed courtyard of the Munich Residenz offers an atmospheric place to relax while admiring the surrounding architecture (entry to the Residenz museums requires a ticket).
- Hofbräuhaus: One of Munich’s most famous beer halls, offering traditional Bavarian food, beer, and live music in a lively, historical setting. It’s free to enter and look around, but of course, you’ll pay if you order any food or drink.
- Bavaria Statue: The Bavaria Statue, located near the famous Theresienwiese, is one of Munich’s iconic landmarks. Standing at nearly 20 meters tall, it represents the strength and spirit of Bavaria. You can also pay money to go inside the statue and peer out the head!
Free Activities in Munich Throughout the Year
Free Concerts and Live Music
Munich is a city that thrives on culture, and one of the best ways to experience it is through free live music and concerts. Here are a few annual music events that are free:
- Sommer in der City (Summer in the City): During the summer months, Munich hosts free outdoor concerts in various parks and squares, including performances in the Englischer Garten and Königsplatz. You can enjoy live jazz, classical music, and local bands while relaxing in the sunshine.
- Munich Summer Festival (Münchener Sommerfest): Although some activities require tickets, there are free concerts, street performers, and cultural events scattered throughout the festival at Olympiapark during July and August.
- Glockenbachwerkstatt: This cultural space in the Glockenbachviertel often hosts free concerts, open-mic nights, and live performances. Check their schedule for free events.
- Open-Air Concerts at Bahnwärter Thiel:
Free Museum Days
Museums in Munich offer a wealth of art, history, and culture, and the good news is that many offer free entry on specific days. Whether it’s modern art, Bavarian history, or science and technology, there’s something for every interest. Here are some museums that are free to visit:
- Pinakothek der Moderne (Modern Art Museum): The museum offers free admission on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It’s a great opportunity to explore contemporary art collections without the usual entry fee.
- Alte Pinakothek (Old Art Museum): Every first Sunday of the month, admission to the Alte Pinakothek is free. Enjoy one of the world’s most famous collections of Old Masters, including works by Rembrandt and Raphael.
- Münchner Stadtmuseum: This museum offers free entry on the first Sunday of every month. It features exhibits on the history of Munich and Bavarian culture.
- The Deutsches Museum: While it’s usually not free, this world-renowned science and technology museum offers free entry on Sundays from 1 p.m. onwards.
Free Festivals
Throughout the year, Munich hosts a variety of festivals, many of which offer free entry and activities.
- Summer Tollwood: Held in Olympiapark, Summer Tollwood has an open-air atmosphere with art installations, street performances, live music, and craft markets.
- Winter Tollwood: is a vibrant and eclectic celebration of art, culture, and music, held annually in Munich at Theresienwiese (the Oktoberfest grounds).
- Oktoberfest: While food and drink are paid for, the Oktoberfest grounds are free to enter. You can enjoy the atmosphere, live music, and the colorful parade without paying a cent.
