A castle credited to Philip of the Palatinate, the Rennaissance style structure dates back to 1530. After being under the patronage of different rulers, the castle ultimately came under the management of the municipality of Ismaning in 1919 and has been its owner ever since. Today, it serves as a host to the Schlossmuseum Ismaning, which houses artworks of the local artists.
Facing Residenz Palace, the Hofgarten (Court Garden) was commissioned by Duke Maximilian I and built between 1613-17. Stroll through this beautiful garden and notice that all of the paths converge on the dodecahedral pavilion in the center, which is crowned by a statue of Diana, one of Bavaria's most recognizable symbols. The Hofgarten is enclosed on two sides by a series of arcades which were originally decorated with murals. The only surviving painting is Peter von Cornelius' fascinating depiction of the story of the Bavarian royal family.
One of the oldest English-style landscape gardens and one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, the Englischer Garten is Munich's most fascinating park. Sprawling across an area of 3.7 square kilometers (1.4 square miles), the park is one of the largest public parks in the world. The park features some of the best architecturally diverse landmarks along its vast verdant expanse and rolling lawns. From a Chinese pagoda with adjoining beer garden, the Monopteros Greek temple to a Japanese Tea House, the park is full of intriguing monuments and landmarks. Artificial streams gush through the park and several surfers can be seen gliding effortlessly through its foamy waters. Housing an artificial lake and an open-air theater, the urban park is one of the best socio-cultural hubs of Munich.
BMW Welt is one of the defining landmarks of Munich's architectural and technological advancements. An immaculate glass cone design that combines form and function, the center is an exquisite socio-cultural hub used for large-scale exhibitions, meetings, conferences and other major events. Displaying the brilliant cars, this is also the collecting center for BMW buyers, with on-site restaurants and lounges serving delectable cuisine for visitors.
Longer in width than the Palace of Versailles, Schloss Nymphenburg was the impressive summer residence of the Wittelsbachs. One of the most popular attractions in Munich, the palace and its grounds are home to several landmarks showcasing diverse architectural styles. Designed by Italian Baroque architect Augustino Barelli, the palace still preserves its rococo and baroque rooms. The ornate, marble polished Stone Hall is particularly impressive and the famous 'Schönheitengalerie' (Gallery of the Beauties) containing the portraits of 36 local women, is a must see for visitors. A few interesting smaller palaces can be found in the park: the Amalienburg, Pagodenburg and Badenburg. The Marstallmuseum has a comprehensive display of carriages, sleds and crockery, while the Meditationskapelle (Meditation Chapel) with its Magdalenenklause is also worth a visit.
Located in the Schloss Nymphenburg, Schlosspark Nymphenburg is one of the largest parks in Munich. The picturesque green landscape, complemented by some extraordinary garden art, is the reason behind the castle garden's popularity among visitors. The entire area is spread around 229 hectares (565.87 acres) of land and is a must visit when in Munich. You can also avail of guided tours conducted by the garden authorities.
Bavaria's favorite, Munich has an appetite for the good life, effectively led by beer halls in its vibrant Old Town, Bavarian cuisine restaurants, the spirit of Oktoberfest, and a mix of architecture, history and thought-provoking culture. In a city such as this, Munich makes one enjoy the charms of its inherent Bavarian heritage – be it the lederhosen-bearing festivals, or the ever famous Weissbier. But, Munich doesn't rest on its Bavarian attractions, extending its scope to serious musical passions that transcend schuhplattler. Included within this scope are illustrious landmarks that deem it one of Europe's major cultural centers, from the importance of the Nationalteater, to the more urbane Gasteig, home to the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra. Munich's historic sprawl also explores its royal heritage that comprises of well-preserved baroque residences like the Nymphenburg Palace and Oberschleißheim. At its periphery exists its constantly developing modernity, from hip nightclubs and bars, to trendy cafes.
Bayerische Staatsoper, an extravagant opera house in the heart of Munich, is home to renowned opera performances, ballets, and classical orchestrated shows. The Bavarian State Orchestra and the Opera Studio are just a couple of major groups that grace the stage. The venue's long history and rich decor will bring you into the performance itself. This venue is a true haven for opera lovers. For reservations and detailed information on events and schedules, check out their website.
Opened in 2015, Hofspielhaus is a destination that offers a wide range of facilities for both public and private events. Within its premises, you'll find several rooms that can be used for special occasions and also coaching classes. Moreover, apart from being a venue for other plays, Hofspielhaus also has undertaken its own theatrical productions.
Referred to as one of the four royal avenues of the city, the street is the brain child of Maximilian II, King of Bavaria. Construction of the street began in 1850. On a trip to Munich, a walk down this avenue of glitter and glamour is a must. Along the Maximilianstraße, you will find stores of some of the biggest names in fashion as well as the city's upscale cafes and eateries. Some of the designer labels you can find here include Chanel, Gucci and Versace.
The mint (moneta regia) was set up in 1809. The Alter Hof's former royal stables were built for Duke Albert V from 1563-1567 by Wilhelm Egckl in the Italian Renaissance style.
Am Platzl is located at the intersection of Falkenturmstraße and Pfisterstraße and it is one of the most lively plazas in the city. The place is surrounded by many cafes and restaurants, and beautiful buildings overlook the plaza. Any cultural activity held in Munich starts at Am Platzl. The place looks beautiful at night when it is illuminated with lights that accent the historical structures scattered throughout the area. During festivals, the Am Platzl comes alive with wonderful decorations