Top Rated Attractions in 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. One of its most exciting features is the "staged experience" for customers picking up new cars, where vehicles are dramatically lifted to the delivery area. Displaying the brilliant cars, this is also the collecting center for BMW buyers, with on-site restaurants and lounges serving delectable cuisine for visitors.

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.

Munich's first puppet theater was founded in 1858 by Josef Leonhard Schmid and the Count of Pocci. Architect Theodor Fischer was commissioned to build a new theater in 1900, and the result was the first-ever theater dedicated to puppets. It is just as impressive today as it was a hundred years ago, and continues to draw in punters young and old who come to laugh at Kasperle (the German equivalent of Punch and Judy) and listen to fairy tales from around the world.

Kranhalle is another glittering jewel in the crown of Feierwerk. A happening venue, it is a versatile space for a multitude of interesting events. Art shows, performances by local bands and literary activities are held here the year round. Attracting an equally diverse crowd from artsy types to intellectuals and the hip and happening, Kranhalle is an interesting place for catching a show.

Reopened in 1997, this is the finest of Munich's opera houses and host to ballets, orchestras, operas, and operettas from all over the world. Classical in style, it was built in 1901 by Max Littmann. The auditorium is designed like an amphitheater with no seat categories, according to the supposedly democratic ideals of Wagnerian opera. The building is also home to the Bavarian Theater Academy, whose students use both stages for public performances.

Opened specifically for the 1972 Summer Olympics, the then Olympic Basketball Gymnasium has since been renamed the Audi Dome. The stadium hosts tons of sporting events and is the home of the FC Bayern München basketball team. Apart from sporting events, the Audi Dome is also used for concerts and has hosted the likes of Frank Zappa and Bruce Springsteen.