How to navigate Munich’s museums like a pro

It’s no secret that Munich is a booming cultural capital, but what might surprise visitors is the diversity of what’s on offer across its museum scene. I’ve lived in the city for almost a decade and am still stumbling across new spaces, exciting projects, and tucked-away street art. Since having kids, I’ve also visited sections of museums I previously avoided, taken part in family-friendly workshops, and seen the city’s permanent exhibits from a completely different perspective.

If you’re looking for a good place to wander, head to the Kunstareal (the museum district) in the city center. It was here where art-loving monarch King Ludwig I built a slew of institutions in the 19th century—and it’s now the perfect neighborhood to get a little lost in.

Ahead, I broke down some of the city’s best cultural institutions—consider this a local’s guide to Munich’s best museums (including how much each one will tire you out).

Sitting in the heart of the Kunstareal, the Alte Pinakothek was one of the largest museums in the world when it first opened in 1836. Still an important gallery, people come from far and wide to see artwork ranging from the 14th to 18th century, including the self-portrait of German painter Albrecht Dürer. Allow plenty of time to explore both floors and climb Hans Döllgast’s striking staircase, which was added as part of the post-war reconstruction. Personally, I like to visit in the summer when the green lawns outside fill up with people enjoying the long evenings.

Tip: Many museums in Munich offer one-euro entry on Sundays and this place is no exception. A good deal, yes, but be aware that this might not be the quietest time to visit.

Lit up in red for Bundesliga games, Allianz Arena is the much-loved home of Munich’s famous football team. Located to the north of the city, the impressive structure is also where you’ll find the FC Bayern Museum. Even though I wouldn’t consider myself a huge fan of the sport, I still found it fascinating to learn more about the history and achievements of the club. To make the most of your visit, I’d recommend a combined ticket that includes a tour of the stadium.

Tip: On match days, you can only visit the museum if you have a ticket for the game. Make sure you check the team’s schedule before you go.

When graffiti as we know it first made its appearance in Europe in the 1980s, it was Munich that led the way for the movement in Germany. Today, this connection is honored with street art tours, museums, and more. In an old bookshop in north Munich’s Schwabing neighborhood, you’ll find the recently opened AMUSEUM of Contemporary Art, run by the non-profit art association Positive Propaganda. The space highlights the work of international street art activists—such as Shepard Fairey and ESCIF—with two exhibits a year.

Tip: Many of the street art tours on offer are in German. While they are a fun way to discover less-trodden parts of the city (even if you don’t speak the language), you can also opt for a self-guided adventure. Check out the map that’s available from the front desk at the AMUSEUM for a great route.

One of the most important science and technology museums in the world, the Deutsches Museum has something for everyone—but it’s especially great for young families. Alongside exhibitions focused on robots, bridges, musical instruments and more is an entire floor catered to children under eight. It’s loud and chaotic but provides hours of entertainment with its super-sized marble run, antique fire engine, and hands-on educational activities. The first part of an ongoing renovation project was completed in 2022, including a new temporary entrance hall on Cornelius Bridge. (The locals have only just gotten used to it!)

Tip: There are two more branches of the Deutsches Museum in and around Munich: the transport museum in the Schwanthalerhöhe neighborhood and the aviation museum in Schleißheim. If you want to visit all three, you can buy a combo ticket, which is valid for a year.

For a touch of royalty, head to this magnificent address in the west of the city. One of Germany’s largest palaces, Schloss Nymphenburg used to be the summer residence for the kings and electors of Bavaria. These days you can wander around the beautifully maintained grounds, one of the biggest recreational areas in Munich, and explore the different wings of the building. Don’t leave without checking out the fancy fleet of carriages or the delicate collection of Nymphenburg porcelain in the Marstallmuseum. The latter is formed and painted by hand onsite.

Tip: It takes about 30 minutes by car or S-Bahn to reach the palace from the city center, so it’s worth swinging by some other nearby attractions while you’re in the area. My top rec is the beautiful botanical gardens.

Lenbachhaus, the former studio and residence of German painter Franz von Lenbach, is a place I always take visitors. The original villa and connected cubic annex designed by British architect Sir Norman Foster are worth a look alone, but the content is great here too. Without a doubt, the highlight is the huge collection of works by the Blaue Reiter—a group of avant-garde artists founded in Munich in the early 20th century. Also not to miss is the unusual exhibition space across the road, known as Kunstbau; it’s tucked away inside an underground station.

Tip: Don’t miss a meal at Lenbachhaus’s stylish restaurant ELLA, located in the main building. It has a creative menu, with dishes including roasted cauliflower, eggplant, and mint yogurt, or braised beef cheeks with mushrooms and mash. On weekends, they also serve brunch until midday.

Another Pinakothek (there are three in total), this one stands out with its exposed concrete walls, clean lines, and huge windows. Designed by German architect Stephan Braunfels, the structure is home to four separate museums all dedicated to art, graphics, architecture, and design, grouped around a central rotunda. Your entry ticket covers everything, but I’d suggest focusing on just one to two sections to keep things manageable. The design space is my favorite with its nostalgic look at everyday objects from cars and bicycles to furniture and cellphones. Download their fantastic app for themed walks and more information on select items.

Tip: On Sundays, they offer fantastic painting and drawing workshops for children over five. They’re free of charge and don’t need to be booked in advance.