Welcome to Munich, the capital of Bavaria, and one of the most vibrant cities in Germany. Famous for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and of course, its legendary Oktoberfest, Munich has long been a destination for travelers seeking to experience the best of German culture. However, there’s more to this city than its beer gardens and BMWs. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into Munich’s rich history and uncover 10 surprising fun facts that you probably didn’t know. From royal scandals to secret societies, we’ll reveal some of the lesser-known aspects of Munich that will make you fall in love with this city all over again. So grab a beer (or a pretzel) and join us as we take a journey through Munich’s fascinating past and present.
In this article, we’ll uncover 10 fun and surprising facts about Munich that will make you fall in love with this amazing city:
1. The Hofbräuhaus, a Paradise for Beer Lovers
If you’re a beer lover visiting Munich you must check out the Hofbräuhaus. This legendary beer hall has been serving up some of the best brews in the world for over 400 years. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time to a place where beer is more than just a beverage – it’s a way of life.
The Hofbräuhaus was established in 1589 by the Duke of Bavaria, Wilhelm V. At the time, it was the first brewery in Munich to be granted the right to brew beer all year round. Today, it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with over 35,000 visitors stopping by each day to experience its unique charm and of course, its delicious beer.
The beer served at the Hofbräuhaus is brewed in accordance with the German Purity Law, which dates back to 1516. The law stipulates that beer can only be made using four ingredients: water, malt, hops, and yeast. This ensures that every sip you take at the Hofbräuhaus is of the highest quality and brewed according to time-honored traditions.
But the Hofbräuhaus is more than just a beer hall – it’s a cultural institution. Over the years, it has been a gathering place for politicians, artists, and intellectuals, with even Mozart himself, reportedly having performed there in the late 18th century. Today, the Hofbräuhaus is a place where people from all walks of life come together to share a pint and celebrate the finer things in life.
If you’re planning a visit to Munich, be sure to add the Hofbräuhaus to your itinerary. With its rich history, lively atmosphere, and of course, delicious beer, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves a good brew. So grab a stein, raise it high, and say “Prost!” to 400 years of Bavarian beer culture.
2. Discovering the Oldest Public Park in the World
Are you a fan of parks and gardens? Then you’ll be delighted to know that Munich is home to the oldest public park in the world – the Englischer Garten (English Garden). This expansive park spans over 900 acres and is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.
The English Garden was created in 1786 by Sir Benjamin Thompson, an American-born physicist, and inventor who worked for the Bavarian government. The park was designed as a place where citizens could enjoy nature and relax away from the city’s bustle. It was initially used for military purposes, but over time, it was transformed into a public park that was accessible to everyone.
One of the most interesting things about the English Garden is its unique blend of nature and culture. The park is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including a beautiful rose garden and a large lake that’s popular with swimmers and boaters. You’ll also find numerous paths and trails that wind through the park, providing the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride.
But the English Garden is not just a place for outdoor enthusiasts – it also has a rich cultural history. The park is home to several landmarks and monuments, including the Chinese Tower, a popular beer garden that serves up traditional Bavarian cuisine and local brews. The park is also home to the Monopteros, a stunning Greek-style temple that offers panoramic views of the city.
Bonus Tip: One of the best ways to see all the most famous sights in Munich is with the Explorial Scavenger Hunt. In case you´re interested in getting to know the best of Munich, on a budget, then you should check out this tour:
3. Munich’s Iconic Tech Hub
Munich is home to the largest science and technology museum in the world: the Deutsches Museum.
The Deutsches Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in science, engineering, and technology. The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 100,000 objects, covering everything from aviation to astronomy, and from energy technology to musical instruments. With exhibits ranging from the history of the automobile to the secrets of the human body, there’s something for everyone at this fascinating museum.
What’s even more impressive is that the Deutsches Museum is not just a static collection of objects. The museum is constantly updating its exhibits and offering new, interactive experiences for visitors. From virtual reality simulations to hands-on experiments, the Deutsches Museum offers a truly immersive experience that will leave you in awe.
So, the next time you’re in Munich, take a trip to the Deutsches Museum and discover the wonders of science and technology in the heart of Bavaria.
4. Witnessing the historic Glockenspiel of Munich
Are you planning a trip to Munich and wondering what to see? The Glockenspiel in Marienplatz is a must-see attraction that is over 100 years old. This historic clock tower is located in the heart of the city and is one of Munich’s most famous landmarks.
The Glockenspiel was built in 1908 and is housed in the tower of the New Town Hall. It consists of 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures that perform a dance every day at 11 am and 12 pm. The figures represent different events from Munich’s history, including the wedding of Duke Wilhelm V to Renata of Lorraine and the Schäfflertanz, a traditional dance performed by Munich coopers during the time of the plague.
The show lasts around 15 minutes and is accompanied by music from the Glockenspiel’s bells. It’s a truly mesmerizing sight that is not to be missed. If you’re lucky enough to be in Munich during a major festival, such as Oktoberfest or the Christmas markets, the Glockenspiel may have special performances to mark the occasion.
5. The Secret History of Oktoberfest
You may think that the Oktoberfest celebration has always been held in Munich, but did you know that the original Oktoberfest was actually held in a small town just outside of Munich? That’s right – the world-famous festival got its start in the city of Freising, in 1810.
The festival was created to celebrate the wedding of Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The citizens of Munich were invited to attend the celebration, which took place in the fields in front of the city gates. The festival was so successful that it was repeated the following year, and has been held every year since then, except for during times of war and epidemic.
Over the years, the Oktoberfest celebration has become an iconic part of Munich’s culture, drawing millions of visitors from all over the world. The festival is known for its beer tents, where visitors can enjoy traditional Bavarian beer and food, as well as live music and other entertainment. The festival also includes a range of rides and attractions, making it a fun and exciting event for visitors of all ages.
6. Uncovering the Myth of the Frauenkirche’s Mysterious Footprint
If you’re visiting Munich, one of the city’s most famous landmarks is the Frauenkirche or Church of Our Lady. While the stunning architecture alone is reason enough to visit, there’s a unique legend associated with the church that adds to its allure.
According to the legend, the Frauenkirche was built without any windows on the side facing the devil. As the story goes, the devil himself was so enraged by this snub that he created a footprint on the floor of the church to show his displeasure.
If you look closely, you can see the footprint for yourself. It’s located just inside the entrance to the church and is marked by a small brass plate. Some say that if you step on the footprint, you’ll feel a shiver run down your spine.
7. The Colorful Side of Munich
While Munich is often associated with historic architecture and traditional culture, its streets are filled with colorful murals and graffiti art that showcase a range of styles and messages.
From political commentary to abstract designs, Munich’s street art scene is diverse and constantly evolving. Many of the city’s most prominent street artists have gained international recognition, and their work can be seen in cities around the world.
One of the most popular areas for street art in Munich is the neighborhood of Gärtnerplatz. The area is home to a variety of independent shops, galleries, and cafes, as well as numerous street art murals that cover the sides of buildings and alleyways. The Gärtnerplatz Theatre, located in the heart of the neighborhood, also features a large mural on its exterior that has become a popular destination for visitors.
Another popular destination for street art in Munich is the neighborhood of Schwabing. The area is home to numerous galleries and studios, as well as a variety of outdoor art installations and murals. The Schwabing Underpass, located near the Münchner Freiheit subway station, is a particularly popular destination for street art enthusiasts. The underpass is covered in colorful murals that showcase a variety of styles and themes, from pop art to political commentary.
Pro tip: One of the best ways to see all the most famous sights in Munich is with the Explorial Scavenger Hunt. In case you´re interested in getting to know the best of Munich, on a budget, then you should check out this tour
8. Exploring the City’s Thriving Food Scene
Munich is not just famous for its beer and iconic landmarks, but also for its thriving food scene. From traditional Bavarian cuisine to international fare, the city has a culinary offering that will satisfy every palate.
If you’re looking for traditional Bavarian dishes, you can’t go wrong with sausages, pretzels, and schnitzel. The city is dotted with beer halls and beer gardens, where you can enjoy a cold beer and classic Bavarian dishes like pork knuckle, sauerkraut, and dumplings. Try the famous Weisswurst, a white sausage made with veal and pork, served with sweet mustard and a pretzel.
Munich also has a range of high-end restaurants that offer a more refined dining experience. From Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy bistros, the city’s food scene is constantly evolving and pushing boundaries. If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, try a restaurant like Atelier, which offers innovative, Michelin-starred cuisine in a sleek, modern setting.
The city is also home to a variety of international restaurants, from Italian and French to Japanese and Mexican. You can find authentic sushi at Sushiya Sansaro, or indulge in delicious pasta at Ristorante Tricolore. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, head to Los Mexicanos for some mouth-watering tacos and margaritas.
Munich’s food scene is not just limited to restaurants, either. The city has a number of food markets and festivals that celebrate the local cuisine. The Viktualienmarkt, located in the heart of the city, is a bustling outdoor market where you can find everything from fresh produce to local cheeses and sausages. The market also hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Beer and Oktoberfest Museum.
So, when visiting the city, be sure to indulge in its culinary delights and discover the many flavors of Munich.
9. Dive into Munich’s Unlikely Surfing Culture
If you’re looking for an adventure in Munich, you might be surprised to learn that the city has a unique surf scene. Despite being located hundreds of miles from the nearest ocean, Munich’s Eisbach River is a popular spot for surfers who ride the river’s standing waves.
The surf scene in Munich has been around since the 1970s, but it’s only in recent years that it’s gained widespread attention. Today, surfers from all over the world come to Munich to try their hand at surfing Eisbach’s waves.
Surfing on a river might sound unusual, but Eisbach’s waves are actually perfect for the sport. The river flows at a consistent rate, creating standing waves that surfers can ride for up to a minute at a time. And because the waves are in a controlled environment, it’s a great spot for beginners to learn the sport.
If you’re interested in checking out Munich’s surf scene, there are a few things you should know. The Eisbach is located in the English Garden, one of Munich’s largest and most popular parks. To find the surfing spot, head to the south end of the park and look for the crowds of people gathered around the river.
For those who are up for the challenge, surfing on the Eisbach is a unique and exhilarating way to experience Munich. It’s just one of the many surprising and fun things you can discover in this amazing city.
10. Munich’s Connection to the BMW Brand
If you’re a fan of fast cars and sleek designs, you probably know all about BMW. But did you know that Munich, Germany is actually the birthplace of this iconic brand? That’s right – BMW was founded in Munich in 1916 and has been a staple of the city’s culture and identity ever since.
For car enthusiasts, a visit to Munich simply wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the BMW Museum. Located in the heart of the city, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the BMW brand, from its early days as a manufacturer of airplane engines to its current status as a leading producer of luxury vehicles.
At the museum, you can marvel at the sleek lines of classic BMW models, learn about the company’s innovative design philosophy, and even take a test drive in one of the brand’s latest models. You’ll also have the opportunity to see some of the most iconic BMW models up close, including the legendary BMW 3 Series and the futuristic i8 hybrid.
But BMW isn’t just a brand – it’s a part of Munich’s identity. The city’s streets are filled with BMWs of all shapes and sizes, from the compact and zippy 1 Series to the powerful and luxurious 7 Series. You’ll also see BMW logos adorning everything from clothing to coffee mugs, a testament to the brand’s enduring popularity and influence.
LIKE THIS ARTICLE ABOUT FROM BEER TO BMW: 10 SURPRISING FUN FACTS ABOUT MUNICH YOU PROBABLY DIDN’T KNOW? PIN IT!
If you’ve found this article interesting, please consider sharing it with your friends. It will mean the world to us! 🙂
