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 kilometres (1.4 square miles), this place 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 an adjoining beer garden and 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 along its foamy waters. Also 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.
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.
Marienplatz has been at the center of the city ever since it was founded by Henry the Lion in 1158. Named after the Marian Column of Mariensaule which was built in 1638 to mark the end of Swedish rule in Germany, the square is one of the most historically rich cultural hubs of the city. Serving as a bustling marketplace in its early days, the square retained its position as the city's social core even after the market was moved. Replete with monuments, Marienplatz is thronged by tourists admiring the intricate 100-meter (328-feet) high Gothic façade of the New Town Hall and the waters of the Fish Fountain. The Marian column forms the centerpiece of the square, with a golden statue of Mother Mary perched on its top.
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
Karl von Fischer erected this classical building in 1818. Today the National Theatre Munich stands tall in marble, crystal and gold, hosting live performances of international artists. The theater is well planned and has a Corinthian portico dedicated to Apollo and the Muses. There is also a mosaic of Pegasus on the rear tympanum, designed by Ludwig Schwantehaler. The building has been destroyed twice: once by fire in 1825 (it was rebuilt two years later in a style faithful to the original) and again in a 1943 air raid. It was rebuilt in 1963 according to the original plans. The Bavarian State Opera, one of the world's best, showcases its events here and the Munich Opera Festival attracts many enthusiasts from around the world every year.