The capital of Bavaria is known for its stunning architecture, museums, and food, but that doesn’t mean nature lovers are left out – here’s our roundup of must-see nature attractions in Munich – from the tourist traps to trails off the beaten track.
The English Garden
The English Garden is a lot more international than its name suggests, and probably Munich’s most prominent nature attractions. Created in the 1700s by one Count Rumford, this urban park stretches from the city centre to the Northeast, and contains some of the city’s beloved symbols.
Look out for the Japanese Teahouse on the south end, gifted to the city by a tea school in Kyoto to celebrate the 1972 Summer Olympics. The Monopteros is probably the most prominent attraction – sitting atop a hill surrounded by trees and built to honour a former Apollo Temple nearby.
The pristine fields, flowing streams, and lush greenery make this spot a relaxing place for an afternoon stroll. Visiting on a weekend? Look out for one of the park’s fun arts and cultural activities – many are free and family-friendly.
Find out more about the garden and its many sights here.
Bike, swim, or surf the Isar River
The historic Isar runs from Austria to Germany and into the Danube through Bad Tolz in Munich. Popular with locals and tourists alike, the river is famous for swimming, surfing, and barbecues.
Take a bike ride along the tree-lined banks, or soak in some sunshine in the summer. The part of the Isar that runs through the aforementioned English Garden is called the Eisbach, and has been popular with river surfers since the 1970s. Rivers are far more forgiving – with waves only about a metre high, so even novices can have a go.
You can explore more things to do on the Isar here.
Enjoy stunning views of the Tulpengarten
The Netherlands may be famous for their colourful varieties of tulips, but Munich offers a little glimpse into the experience at the Tulpengarten. Located in the quaint Gleissenbachstrasse, just a quick train ride from the main city, is Munich’s largest tulip garden.
Home to over 150 types of tulips, a reconstructed windmill and sweeping views of the surrounding valleys, this is the perfect place for a “Sound of Music”-type photoshoot. Anthophiles can spend up to half a day in this 20,000 square metre space viewing the blooms and crafting their own arrangements.
Get tickets and directions to the Tulpengarten here.
Do a boat tour on the Starnberger Lake
This historic lake is the second-largest in Germany, and is most famous among locals as the spot where the ostentatious “Fairytale King” Ludwig II was found dead in 1886. The Starnberger has been able to shake off its morbid history however, and is now known for scenic boat tours, castles, and diverse ecology.
Nestled in the Alps, this sparkling lake is a sight for sore eyes. Hop on the train or take a scenic morning drive to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the lake. There are plenty of cruise tours available that will take passengers along the perimeter of the 21km lake and point out the must-see sights like Schloss Berg, Schloss Possenhofen, and the Tutzing church.
A full list of sights on the Starnberger can be found here.
Go hiking in Hirschberg
Craving a rush of adrenaline? There’s no better place than the Alps. Catch a Bavarian bus to Hirschberg for lush green valleys, snow-capped peaks, and the view of a lifetime.
Even novices can get a slice of the high life with one of the easier trails with lower elevation for easier navigation. Seasoned hikers can take more difficult routes depending on their level of experience. All trails are properly signposted, so there is no worry of getting lost, though going off the beaten track is definitely not a bad idea in a landscape as stunning as this one.
View a number of potential trails in Hirschberg here.
Munich has a diverse range of natural sights, and this roundup features just a few of them – lace up your running shoes and get exploring!
