The Best Things To See And Do In Munich In Spring

The birds are singing; the sky is blue, and – most importantly – it’s stopped snowing (touch wood)! Müncheners love to be outdoors, so when the weather starts to improve, the city comes alive with festivals, events, and so much more. Whether you’re looking for a chilled way to spend a sunny afternoon or something more energetic, Culture Trip has put together must-do and must-see things in Munich for spring.

1. Hang out at the circus

Until May 1, 2017

Eternal weather optimists, Wannda brings a bit of outdoor showmanship in April at this former cattle yard. This festival, featuring food trucks, brightly coloured tents, and plenty of bunting, is packed with atmosphere and is open daily until May 1st. You can catch everything from stand-up comedy to peaceful yoga sessions, and just about everything in between. If you don’t go for the acts, go for the food: you’ll be spoilt for choice between vegetarian kebabs, homemade burgers, and spicy Indian food.

Viehhof, Tumblingerstraße 29, 80337, Munich, Germany

Wannda Festival | © Fabian Christian

2. Rent a pedalo in the Englischer Garten

Park

This 900-acre park stretches almost from the city centre to the edge of Munich. Far more than just a green space, there are many hidden corners of the park to discover. For some peace and quiet, head north to the Kleinhesseloher Lake where you can rent both pedalos and motor boats and wave at the drinkers in the lakeside beer garden as you float by them. Join them afterwards for a Radler (Munich’s sunny day drink of choice), and watch the world go by.

Englischer Garten, 80538 Munich, Germany

3. Get a bird’s-eye view of the city and beyond

Church

In the summer, it’s too hot to tackle St. Peters Church, and in the winter, temperatures at the 56-metre-high (184 feet) viewing platform can be icy, making spring the perfect time to tackle the 306 steps up the bell tower. It’s worth the effort; from the viewing platform, you’ll find yourself looking out onto the rooftops of Aldstadt, including many famous landmarks such as the symbol of Munich, Frauenkirche. On a clear day, you can see over 100 kilometres (62 miles) away, all the way to the Alps!

St. Peter’s Church, Rindermarkt 1, 80331 Munich, Germany, +49 89 210237760

Get a view over Munich’s rooftops from St Peter’s Church | © Sarah-Rose / Flickr

May 6, 2017

The aptly named ‘Die Lange Nacht de Musik’ – long night of music – sees the city of Munich turned into a huge network of concert venues. From cultural embassies to cosy wine bars, you can see many different types of artists perform at over 100 venues with just one ticket. The best bit is that the organisers have partnered with the city’s transport networks to provide four different routes around the city to shuttle music lovers from venue to venue, all included in your €18 ticket.

Go to Frühlingsfest

Until May 7, 2017

If you’re not in Munich for Oktoberfest, no problem – April is the time for Frühlingsfest, also affectionately known as ‘little Wiesn’, the little Oktoberfest. Like its big brother, there are plenty of rides and two large beer tents selling the special ‘festbier’. A maß will set you back €9.50, a slight price increase on last year. If you like vintage vehicles, make sure to check out the collection of vintage cars, buses, and tractors at the Oldtimertreffen. It’s a great excuse to dust off your dirndl and start enjoying the weather.

4. Get a culture fix

Until June 11, 2017

The design museum section of the Pinakothek der Moderne is hosting a unique opportunity to see the work of Scandinavian jeweller and artist, Tone Vigeland. Sometimes known as the ‘grand dame’ of Scandinavian jewellery, this will be Vigeland’s first solo exhibition in Europe outside of Scandinavia. When it comes to jewellery, the 80-year-old has an eye for strong geometric patterns, often in stark monochrome metals. You’ll be able to see 150 of her designs as well as other objects and sculptures from May 11 – June 11, 2017.

Pinakothek de Moderne, Barer Str. 27, 29 & 40, 80333 Munich, Germany, +49 89 23805360.

5. Go on a hike

Brewery, Monastery

Springtime means perfect hiking weather. So close to the Alps, you’re spoiled for choice in Munich. For a great blend of scenery, walking, and relaxation, head to Ammersee. You can get the S-Bahn directly from Marienplatz to Herrsching. From there, a popular hike is up to the Benedictine Andechs Monastery. It’s about a four-kilometre (2.5-mile) walk, including some hilly paths. The best bit? The monastery is also a brewery; therefore, you can reward your efforts with a beer in the sun!

Andechs Monastery, Bergstraße 2, 82346 Andechs, Germany, +49 8152 3760

Explore Bavaria by bike

Munich is a cycling city – there’s even a 170-kilometre (106-mile) bike path that weaves its way around the outskirts of the city. For some scenic cycling, there are some beautiful cycle routes that wind their way along the banks of the Isar River, and spring is the perfect time to explore them before the summer heat hits. To maximise what you see, look for routes such as Munich to Otterfing, where you can pedal there and take the train back or vice versa. It’s a great way to explore the rest of Bavaria.

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