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Budget Travel Munich - Best Things to Do in Munich for Free

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If you are traveling to Munich on a budget, you’ll be happy to learn that the Bavarian capital offers many free things to see and do. Here are the best free Munich attractions and sights, from walking tours, and cathedrals, to open-air markets, and festivals.

1. Free Munich Walking Tour

jwalsh

Take part in a free, English-speaking walking tour through Munich and get a great introduction to the Bavarian capital; this walking tour includes all famous sights in Munich’s Old Town, and the guides are known for their entertaining and interesting tours.

Read more about the Free Munich Walking Tours

2. The Munich Glockenspiel

Dimitry B.

Every day at 11 a.m. and noon, a crowd of people gathers in front of Munich’s Town Hall on Mariensquare to hear the traditional Glockenspiel chime. For over 100 years now, the Glockenspiel, which is housed in the Town Hall’s tower, has reenacted historical Bavarian events. Look out for the golden bird that chirps 3 times to mark the end of each show.

3. Munich's Church of Our Lady

Bastian Stein

The Church of Our Lady, also located on Mariensquare, is one of Munich’s signature landmarks, its sturdy towers shaping Munich's skyline. Climb the steps of the cathedral’s towers for a breathtaking view of Munich's cityscape and the Bavarian Alps.

4. Field Marshal’s Hall

Creative Commons: chjab

The Feldherrenhalle, or Field Marshal’s Hall, was commissioned by King Ludwig to commemorate the Bavarian army. In 1923, the stately hall became infamous when Hitler’s attempted coup to overtake the Bavarian government was defeated in front of the Field Marshal’s Hall.

Read more about Hitler's Beer Hall Putsch in front of the Field Marshal’s Hall

5. Munich's Residence Palace

Phil Whitehouse

The Residence is the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, and its oldest buildings date back to the 14th century. Today, the Residence houses one of the best European museums of interior decoration. Although the museum itself is not free, you can roam ten impressive courtyards and beautiful historical gardens without paying.

6. Theatine Church

GTNB/Andrew Cowin

The Catholic Theaterinerkirche, Theatine Church, adds some Mediterranean flavor to Munich; built in the 17th century by an Italian architect, the inside is made out of white stucco, while the façade is awash in warm yellow colors. The church, one of the finest examples of Italian baroque in Munich, borders the royal Odeon’s Square.

7. Viktualienmarkt

Munich Image

The bustling Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s oldest and best farmers market, dating back to 1807. Locals, tourists, and the city’s top chefs come here to fill their baskets and marvel at the traditionally decorated booths. Browsing this outdoor market is a feast for all senses.

Read more about Munich's Viktualienmarkt

8. The English Garden

Aschaf

Relax in the English Garden, the green heart of Munich, which is even bigger than Central Park in New York. Locals love their park for its many lakes, traditional beer gardens, overgrown paths, and lush lawns like the Schoenfeld Wiese, where you can also sunbathe nude.

9. Oktoberfest

GNTB/Rainer Kiedrowski

Did you know that Oktoberfest is free? You don't have to pay admission to visit the most famous beer festival in the world, and all Oktoberfest parades and events are free too.

10. Starnberg Lake

Creative Commons: Allie Caulfield

Munich is the gateway to the Alps and surrounded by beautiful Bavarian countryside. Take a trip to the Starnberg Lake, which lies 16 miles south of Munich; lined by some of King Ludwig’s best palaces, the lake is a favorite destination for many locals.

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