Top Rated Attractions in Munich

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.

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.

Built for the 1972 Olympic Games, the Olympic complex is now used for a variety of leisure activities ranging from sports events to concerts. The 287-meter (942-foot) high Olympic Tower boasts a stunning view of the city. On a good day, visitors can go up and see as far as the Alps. There is also a rotating restaurant at the top. The famous canopy roof which spans the Olympic Stadium, the Olympic Swimming Pool and the Olympiahalle were a topic of debate in their day. The complex is, however, timelessly beautiful and has become an integral part of the modern cityscape. The Olympiaberg (Olympic Hill) is a grassy mound made from Second World War rubble and also provides great views. The ice rink and swimming pool are also popular with sports fans, as is the Olympic Stadium, home to FC Bayern Munich- one of Europe's top football clubs.

The Olympic tower at Olympiapark is the tallest building in Munich, just a little shorter than the Eiffel tower. Built by the civic council in 1965-68 for the 1972 Olympics, it provides the best view of the city and surrounding area and in good weather, it is possible to see as far as the Alps. The Olympiaturm restaurant beneath the viewing platform is open from 11a-5p and 6:30p-midnight. Apart from providing a stunning view, this rotating restaurant also serves very good dishes from around the world at reasonable prices.

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.