Top Rated Attractions in Munich

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.

Completed in 2005, the 69,901-seat Allianz Arena is home to the popular football club Bayern Munchen and was built just in time for the 2006 FIFA World Cup. Designed by Swiss architects Herzog and de Meuron, the arena is unique with its round shape and soft white facade that comes alive once it is illuminated in bright hues during games. The stadium is climate controlled and often abuzz with the roars of massive crowds cheering for their favorite teams. It also boasts of 106 luxury boxes for those wishing to go as a group. A hub of sports and culture in Germany, the stadium exudes unbridled energy of the nation's love for football.

Completed in 1985, the Gasteig Cultural Center is nothing short of a cultural landmark in the city. It consists of structures of contrasting forms clustered around a forum. Situated on the right bank of the River Isar, the Gasteig (meaning "steep road" in Bavarian dialect) dominates the axis formed by the Isartor, Zweibrückenstraße, and Ludwigsbrücke. The main building is the Philharmonie, home to the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra and with seating for 2,400 people. The Gasteig also houses the Carl-Orff-Saal, the Kleine Konzertsaal (the small concert hall) and the Black Box Stage for music, theater and lectures. In addition, it accommodates Munich's Municipal Library, with 600,000 books (of which 50,000 are for lending), one of the largest in Germany. The Volkshochschule (adult education center) and the Richard Strauss Conservatory are also on the premises.

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.

Opened in 2007, Alexander Krist Theater is a popular venue for magic shows in Munich. The theater which has been functioning for over a decade boasts of accommodating approximately 84 people in five ascending rows. These seats are arranged in a style similar to that of an amphitheater, giving this place a magical vibe.

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.