Munich is definitely an Instagram-worthy travel destination with photography spots around every corner or beer tap.
The city offers up historic architecture, lively plazas, and a great mix of cityscapes and green spaces for different photography opportunities. I loved all the options to see the city from above as well as shoot it from down below trying to capture the tall towers and intricate details.
I also loved all the food photography in the city, capturing the nine billion pretzels I ate sitting up against my stein of good German beer.
Be sure to check out these best places for photos in Munich before enjoying too much Bavarian beer to ensure your photos aren’t as fuzzy as your beer goggles.
9 most Instagrammable places in Munich
1. Marienplatz
It’s a classic, but Marienplatz is one of the best photography locations in Munich to capture the stunning architecture and daily life in Munich. Snap the Marian column, get the crowds with the Gothic Old Town Hall or New Town Hall in the background, or even get some fun shots from a cafe or shop right in the thick of the plaza.
Stick around for the Glockenspiel show, though that might be better captured on video. If possible, visit over Christmas to get the warm and happy glow of the Christmas market and photograph people shopping and sipping Gluhwein.
2. New Town Hall
Yes, it’s located in Marienplatz but New Town Hall gets its own mention. Not only should you spend time shooting its exquisite exterior in its neo-Gothic style, but save time to head inside and snap the stone arches and staircases from different angles.
Another popular and Insta-worthy Munich destination is the municipal law library inside New Town Hall. With dark wood accents and a spiral staircase with ornate touches, it’s a definite win for travel photography. This is a working space for Munich’s government, so be respectful of the space and others in it when photographing the area.
When you’re done with the exterior and interior, head on up to the top for gorgeous aerial shots of Munich. It’s 3€ for the elevator ride to the top and a pretty awesome view is there to greet you.
3. St. Peter’s Church
Another option for aerial shots of Munich, and to get the New Town Hall in your shot, is St. Peter’s Church. Climb the 299 steps to the viewpoint and take in the breathtaking view of Munich (or maybe it’s just all those stairs taking their toll). You could also do both locations, St. Peters and New Town Hall, if you really want great pictures of Munich from above.
4. English Garden
Hang out with the locals and get some epic shots of your Munich getaway in English Garden. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park or rent a bike to see more on your exploration of this popular tranquil space in Munich.
Monopteros, the garden pavilion with neat columns, is a fan-favorite in English Garden and attracts many in Munich looking for the perfect backdrop for a photo for Instagram. The monopteros’ location on the top of the hill also provides a great scenic view of the garden below.
The Chinese Tower is another popular subject for your photography sessions in Munich, and made better by having your camera in one hand and a beer in the other as you enjoy the beer garden.
5. Hofgarten
This oasis in Munich is located near the Residenz and was once the garden for the royal family, but now is a popular park that’s open to all. Stop by the Temple of Diana for cute shots in the pavilion, dating to 1615, get some colorful shots with the various flowers and greenery, or add some action to your pictures with the garden’s fountains and water features.
6. The Residenz
Now that you’ve strolled through the gardens near the palace, head inside for some gorgeous architecture, tapestries, and paintings in The Residenz. The Residenz was the residence of the Bavarian dukes and kings from 1508-1918 and now houses a fantastic art collection from the Renaissance to Neoclassicism.
Get shots of the gorgeous architecture in the courtyards or soak up the gorgeous red and golden hues in the Cuvilliés Theatre. There’s no shortage of photo locations right inside the Residenz.
7. Nymphenburg Palace
Leave the city center and head for Nymphenburg Palace, the former summer residence for the Bavarian monarchs. See the bedchambers, chapel, and various rooms of the royal home, before heading outside to enjoy Nymphenburg Park.
During the summer, feel like you’ve been transported to Venice as you take a gondola ride across the park’s lake. Snap some great pics with your partner as you enjoy a romantic ride and get a unique view of the palace and its grounds. Gondola rides can be reserved in advance or you can be spontaneous and book a ride when you arrive. The summer season is from April to mid-October.
8. Viktualienmarkt
Go for the photo opps and stay for the shopping! This open air market is great for people and lifestyle shots, but you’ll want to hunt down the Maypole for a fun subject of your photos – as long as it hasn’t been stolen by a rival town. Get your selfie in front of the pole and then check out the stalls and goodies for sale in the market.
9. Oktoberfest
The most popular beer festival in the world is just begging to be photographed. From the copious amount of beer being served to the smiles of everyone in attendance in their traditional dress and even during the parade, there are some great opportunities for cool photos of Munich at Oktoberfest.
Snap the filled steins against the traditional blue and white flags, get your smile on with all the pretzels available, and get the crowds in their lederhosen and dirndl as they enjoy the festivities.
Did we miss any of your favorite photography locations in Munich? Tell us in the comments below or give us a shout on Twitter!
