Steeped in history, Munich dates back to the 12th century when it was founded by Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony and Bavaria. As the capital of the Bavarian region in Germany, Munich offers visitors a wealth of experiences. From rock climbing to attending iconic shows, here are some fun and free things to do in Munich.
One of Munich's most popular free activities is to hang out at Marienplatz, the city’s main square. Marienplatz has served as the geographical and cultural heart of Munich since 1158. The square houses significant buildings, including the Old Town Hall and the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). You can watch the historic Glockenspiel show, which is free to watch and takes place in the tower of the New City Hall. Performances occur daily at 11 a.m. and 12 noon, and from March to October, there is an additional show at 5 p.m. The performance features two stories from the 16th century: a jousting scene and the Schäfflertanz, the cooper's dance. Additionally, every night at 9 p.m., the night watchman blows his horn while an angel blesses the Münchner Kindl.
Whether you are a lifelong fan or just curious about the brand, BMW Welt creates an engaging atmosphere where you can appreciate the artistry, technology, and heritage behind each vehicle, all without any pressure to buy. It serves as a hub for automotive excellence, showcasing the latest models, classic designs, and even concept vehicles. Visitors have the unique opportunity to not only admire these exceptional machines but also to sit inside select models, giving you a taste of the luxurious lifestyle that comes with owning a BMW.
Address: Am Olympiapark 1, 80809 München, Germany
Surfing might not be the first activity that comes to mind when considering Munich, but the Eisbachwelle (German for "ice brook") at the entrance to the Englischer Garten offers a unique opportunity for surf enthusiasts. This spot, located along the Isar River, features the Eisbach River, an artificial waterway with a stone step that creates a standing wave reaching about half a meter in height. Known as the world's largest and best river wave within a city, the Eisbachwelle has attracted surfers for over 40 years.
This is an Olympic Park built for the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich. Situated in the Oberwiesenfeld neighbourhood, this expansive park is inspired by the hilly landscapes of the Alpine foothills. Access to the Olympic Park is free, and visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls throughout the vast green spaces. While some attractions, such as the Olympic Tower and guided tours of the stadium, require separate tickets, the park itself is open to the public without an entry fee. It features extensive walking and jogging paths, making it a great spot for fitness enthusiasts. The park's green areas are ideal for picnics and relaxing in nature. The Olympic Hill (Olympiaberg) offers panoramic views of both the city and the park and is also accessible for free. Throughout the year, the park hosts numerous free events, including concerts and exhibitions.
In Munich, several smaller museums and galleries offer free admission, providing an excellent opportunity for art and history enthusiasts to explore without financial constraints. Among these venues is the MaximiliansForum, an intriguing art passage, features rotating displays that often highlight the works of emerging artists. The ESO Supernova exhibition, hosted by the European Southern Observatory, immerses visitors in the wonders of astronomy and space exploration through interactive displays and engaging presentations. Meanwhile, the Palaeontological Museum invites guests to journey through time with its extensive collection of fossils, revealing the prehistoric life that once inhabited our planet. Additionally, the Geological Museum showcases a fascinating array of geological specimens, providing insights into the Earth’s formation and natural history.
Fitness enthusiasts will find plenty of fun and free activities to enjoy in Munich. You can climb for free at various bouldering walls, such as "Dicker Hans" located under the Candidbrücke. Additionally, concrete climbing walls are available at several city playgrounds, including one on Heckenstallerstraße in Sendling. You can also take part in "Trimm-Dich" trails, which are public fitness parcours featuring several exercise stations. In Olympiapark, the "Bewegungsinsel" at the Olympic Lake offers training equipment for a full-body workout. From May to September, Munich’s "Fit in the Park" program is completely free and provides a variety of sports and fitness exercises daily in several parks. Furthermore, during Blade Night, which takes place on Mondays, you can skate through the streets of Munich alongside thousands of other skaters.
