Alternative Guide and Unique Things to do in Munich

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Are you curious about Munich off the beaten path? So many people visiting Munich for the first time, or even the second time, leave having only seen some of the top sights. Whether that is because they aren’t slowing down and giving themselves enough time to see the alternative side of Munich or because they don’t know where to look.

The Munich hipster scene might not be on the same level as Berlin or Williamsburg, but it is damn near impossible to find and entirely underground. Therefore, almost everything hip happening in Munich has yet to break into mainstream activities. Most alternative things to do in Munich are known only to locals, while the information available for travelers is usually the same top 10 sites on repeat. Despite being relatively unknown, Munich offers plenty of fun and alternative things to do to ensure you experience its unique side.

After living in Munich for seven years, I found some of Munich’s must-visit sites to be a little crowded and overrated. While this guide still includes some bigger sites, I typically avoid telling you to visit Marienplatz and the Frauenkirche. That isn’t to say they aren’t worth seeing. Munich’s top sites are worth seeing as they provide essential cultural and historical context, but plenty of guides list the top sites, and we don’t need another.

However, following this hipster and alternative guide to Munich will ensure you leave the city with unique memories other than watching Europe’s second-most overrated tourist attraction (the clock at Marienplatz). I hope this alternative guide to Munich helps you explore the city at a slower pace, enjoying many of the unique things to do, from weekly farmers’ markets, supporting local shops, sipping hipster coffee, enjoying street art, alternative sites, cocktail bars, craft breweries, and boutique hotels – so, let’s dive in.

This guide complements my sustainable guide to Munich, a comprehensive deep dive into Munich that covers everything you need to know before visiting for responsible travel. I suggest you head over to pin that post to help you plan. This alternative guide is suggested as day 2 of a sustainable itinerary for those who have been to Munich before or anyone looking for a local’s guidance for getting off the trodden path. 

What is alternative tourism?

Alternative tourism is a term often used by tourism academics (such as myself) to talk about anything other than mass tourism. The focus of alternative tourism is to diffuse mass tourism and embrace slower-paced and more sustainable travel. That means enjoying cities at a slower pace, diversifying where tourists visit, and highlighting what makes a city unique outside the top tourist attractions or peak seasons. 

It also means getting a little comfortable with FOMO.

• Munich is a popular tourist destination in Europe. With 18 million overnight stays, it is among the world’s top 10 most visited countries.
• Yet, despite its popularity, most travel guides cover the same top sights, popular German restaurants, and typical experiences.
• But what about those who want to explore Munich like a local, get off the beaten path, or have already seen all those main sights?
• This alternative guide to Munich is for those who want to explore the city in-depth, checking out the hidden gems, unique attractions, and local favorite places.
• Bookmark this hipster guide to Munich to enjoy alternative sights for an experience most tourists don’t get when they visit the city.
• Let’s explore the hidden corners of Munich and leave with special memories to take home.

Best breakfast & brunch in Munich

As with all my hipster and alternative guides, we start with brunch! Finding the best brunch in Munich is as challenging as finding a unicorn in the forbidden forest – unless Voldemort does all the hard work for you. Brunch, as we know it in North America, isn’t as common here in Munich, but there are some great eats if you know where to look. 

As I update this post years after first publishing it, brunch is gaining popularity throughout Munich, and the options have improved significantly. While a traditional breakfast might still include a Weißwurst and Weißebier, this post is about shaking things up.

Schmalznudel – Cafe Frischhut

Ok, before we shake things up too much, if you want a more traditional start to your day, let’s at least start with a quirky, hidden gem. If you prefer to skip the lengthy brunch and get on with sightseeing or heading out for a day trip, then at least take a minute to stop at Schmalznudel – Cafe Frischut, Munich’s oldest bakery. Here, you will find a Bavarian pastry that has been a part of culture for generations. Grab one of their light and fluffy fried pastries dusted in sugar before starting your day. This hidden gem is still surprisingly overlooked, even though it is integral to Munich’s food history and culture. 

Emmis Kitchen

My favorite brunch spot in Munich is an all-vegan cafe in the heart of the ultra-hip Glockenbackviertel. In the summer, you can enjoy their inner courtyard terrace (innenhof) for amazing vegan pancakes topped with berries. In the colder months, stay indoors and enjoy one of their breakfast burgers. Emmis is tucked away on a side street and is a local favorite for natural and vegan breakfast.

Mary’s Coffee Club

If you like aesthetically pleasing and healthy brunches, swing into Mary’s Coffee Club. Mary is a world traveler who brought global influences back to Munich. This ultra-hip cafe and coffee shop serves all-day breakfast and brunch. I love the flatbread with pink hummus and the halloumi trüffel burger. Of course, depending on your mood, don’t forget to get their locally roasted coffee or a prosecco. 

Das Kulinart

If you are looking for a fancy-ass brunch in a small, intimate setting, this is your go-to place. In the heart of the “echt-cool,” Schwanthalerhohe, Das Kulinart is for hip foodies. Their plating and menu are on par with Michelin restaurants, and they serve local and seasonal food, relying on relationships with Bavaria’s small farmers and producers. Come and see what all their 5-star reviews are about, and stay for their mouth-watering brunch. Reservations are recommended!

Maximilianeums Brunch

If you want something more traditional or uniquely Bavarian but still off the beaten path, then brunch at Maximilianeums is for you! Maximilianeum is home to the Bavarian State Parliament and one of Munich’s most grand buildings. Dine on a seasonal brunch buffet every Sunday from 11 am – 2 pm (reservations required). After your brunch, you will receive a tour of the State Parliament building through the historic rooms and plenary hall. 

Trachtenvogl

Trachtenvogl might be the coziest place for brunch in Munich. I used to spend many a late morning here enjoying their more traditional breakfasts and getting some work done from one of their couches. The cafe is a local favorite with a modern, cozy design, but it still features more traditional Bavarian breakfasts with local cheese, meat, and eggs. Of course, I get their vegan or vegetarian breakfast – but you can’t go wrong with either. 

Mr. Pancake

Pancakes for the wanderlusting hipster. Take a trip around the world with pancakes from 15 countries. Try German Pfannkuchen with cherries and vanilla cream, Spanish pancakes with honey and nuts, English pancakes with lemon and sugar, or classic American-style pancakes. This family-owned business has an open kitchen, so you’ll see the owner and chef flipping pancakes with both hands on a single stove. This place is relatively small, and the food comes out when it comes out, so it is not ideal for a large group, but it is a great spot to eat traditional pancakes from around the world!

Don’t judge me for getting my very US-American pancakes. After living in Munich for many years, your girl just needed some blueberry pancakes with maple syrup!

Ginger & Grays

Ginger and Grays is a newer breakfast spot and a fast local favorite with fabulous options! Their fun and festive themes and seasonal menu keep things exciting, so there is always a reason to return. As a bagel lover, their decadent vegan bagel sandwich and vegan-only section appeal to me. But whether you are looking for sweet, savory, or dragonfruit mimosas, they have you covered. The inside of this cafe is super cute, and their plating is on point.

Munich’s Unique Art

After your breakfast or brunch, you might be interested in some art and culture. But, because this is an alternative guide to Munich, we will start with some of Munich’s more unique art options. Whether you are looking for street art, quirky art installations, local modern art, or some of Munich’s most unusual museums, I’ve got you covered. 

Munich’s Best Street Art

Street art in Munich is bold, colorful, and perfectly fits Munich’s vibes. Some of my favorite pieces are along my favorite walk in the city. Walking along the eastern side of the Isar trails from Friedensengel to the Wittelsbacherbrücke, you’ll see fantastic street art under bridges, through tunnels, buildings, and stairways. My favorite piece is the tunnel under the Friedensengel, lit with light panels and different individual pieces – don’t miss the stairs up to the monument. Along this route, the Muffathalle always has some lovely murals as well. 

Another one of my favorite places for street art is Olympiadorf. This village near Olympiapark was built for athletes. It is now low-cost housing for university students. The students or residents are allowed to paint and design their tiny homes. As you walk through the little village, you can see colorful murals and gain a little insight into the personalities of Munich’s university students. 

I’ll mention some of these places in my later recommendations for alternative things to do in Munich. Still, the Werksviertel-Mitte has some excellent street art that covers just about everything from dumpsters and buildings to businesses housed in painted shipping containers. You’ll find Munich’s biggest and most grand murals near my old apartment along Tumblingerstraße and close to the Bahnwarterthiel. The artists of these murals often make statements regarding local culture, from the White Rose Resistance group to commentaries on Munich’s relationship with cannabis. 

Not far from the Hofgarten, under the intersection of Von-der-Tann Straße and Ludwigstraße, you’ll find lots of Bavarian-themed murals. Further out in Giesing on Zehentbauernstraße. There is an entire open-air street art gallery under the Donnersbergerbrücke. The Mittelschule München has a lovely street art message about anti-racism and tolerance along its border walls. Finally, near Kolumbusplatz, if you google Halt 58 Kunsttreff, some great pieces are under the bridge and along the Am Bergsteig walkway.  

Sustainable Tip: Make sure to rent a bike or use your own two feet to check out Munich’s street art! While our public transportation is great, seeing all the street art is better on a bike since many pieces are along our gorgeous Isar bike trail or away from an U-Bahn station.

Visit Kunstlabor

Kunst Labor is one of my favorite artistic experiences in Munich. I typically go 1-2 times yearly as the exhibits constantly change and evolve. The team behind Kunst Labor took over a building set to be demolished and turned several floors and offices into incredible works of art.

Local and some international artists are offered a room or a section of the building to bring their art to life. Expect the unexpected as you enter an old bathroom transformed into an art installation, making a statement on plastic that makes you feel as if you are underwater with sealife around you. Step into a room shedding light on the plight of refugees through media and art – or enjoy silly works of art that make you smile. 

Allow a few hours to explore the immersive art on several floors. Take time to enjoy the bar and hangout lounge. You need tickets to enter, and I recommend buying them online in advance. This is one of the coolest hidden gems in Munich for any art enthusiast. 

Art Installments Around Munich

Around the city, you’ll find hundreds of exciting art pieces and sculptures, but I’ll highlight a few of my favorite quirkier and more unique pieces. Watch for these and other statues as you explore Munich on foot. 

• The Walking Man – Leopoldstraße 36
• The Olympic Rings (abstract) – Connollystraße behind Olympiadorf
• Kinetic Umbrella – MUCCA Art Compound
• Autoeater – corner of Elisenstraße and Karlzplatz in front of the justice building
• Bukolika – Museumsinsel 1
• Giant Snail – Bavariapark
• Sculpture Park at the Pinakothek lawn
• Tucher Park Sculpture Garden
• The Endless Staircase inside the KPMG court

Munich’s Unique Museums & Art Galleries

You should go to the Deutsches Museum because it is the world’s largest science and technology museum! I’m not joking. You would need 5+ days to cover this entire thing, which might not even be enough – haha. The BMW museum is also worth visiting. However, Munich also has its fair share of quirky and alternative museums that are a bit more off the beaten path and just as interesting.

• Die Kiste is probably the most odd of the bunch. This entire museum is dedicated to the puppetry of the Alps. You’ll be familiar with this style of puppetry if you watch Sound of Music. Come prepared to be slightly weirded out. 
• The Beer and Oktoberfest Museum is for those interested in visiting Munich for its rich beer and brewery traditions and heritage. 
• The Spielzeugmueum is for anyone interested in historic toys and trinkets for children. 
• Museum Brandhorst – probably Munich’s newest museum, Brandhorst is a contemporary museum in a lovely building.
• Street Art Museum – A great little museum dedicated to street art and modern 
• MUCA – Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art
• Haus der Kunst – A former Nazi building transformed into an art gallery. The decision to keep the brutalist Nazi architecture was controversial, but what is housed now is well worth the visit. They have rotating exhibits; for this upcoming winter, they have a special exhibit by women in art.

Munich’s Alternative Markets

Of course, everyone will tell you to visit the Viktualienmarkt, which certainly has its charm, but it can be crowded and chaotic during Munich’s busiest times of the year. While living in Munich, I much preferred visiting weekly farmers’ markets or flea markets. 

These weekly markets are packed with local gastronomic delights and delicacies and offer an excellent alternative to the sometimes touristy Viktualienmarkt.  

Sustainable Tip: Don’t forget your reusable tote bag – I know you have one lying around at home. Bring it with you to avoid buying another bag or one from a vendor. I have the same four bags I use repeatedly, and they have been around the world with me!

Tuesday: Josephsplatz

Head to this market on Tuesday afternoons to enjoy fresh fruit from Bavaria. You can also buy liquors and juice from these fruits. 

Wednesday/Saturday: Mariahilfplatz 

This is my favorite market in Munich. It’s open twice a week with a stunning church in the background and plenty of space for vendors. Come on Wednesday for fresh, regional, and seasonal produce and on Saturday for a more traditional Saturday market. 

Thursday: St. Anna Platz 

Step into a whimsical village market with plenty of fresh produce, culinary delights such as incredible goat cheese, and baked goods from small towns around Munich. 

Friday: Ackermannbogen

Ackermannbogen is the ideal market for hipsters. This is one of Munich’s newer markets, and you can find everything from filtered coffee to Turkish Obatzda.

Saturday – all over 

Every Saturday, Munich comes alive with Flomarkts and farmers’ markets. My neighborhood had a small farmers market called Klenzenmarkt for regional foods. Olympiapark parking lot has a large fleamarket. Resi-Huber-Platz has a market with Tyrolean nibbles.

Check out the Night Bazar on Saturday night at Backstage for a beer garden, vendors, live music, and hundreds of stalls. 

Finally, my favorite market is the Krims and Krams, which usually happens on Saturdays once a month. This market, called bits and bobs in English, is the ultimate sustainable market. Locals sell their “junk” to give it a second life – fur and unethical items are prohibited. But this is the perfect place to find amazing costumes, clothing, furniture, and more. This is the true definition of “one person’s junk is another’s treasure.”

Also, if you are in the mood to shop local boutiques or thrift stores or peruse antiques, head to the area south of Gartnerplatz for tons of local sustainable shops. Alternatively, head into the university district around Maxvorstadt to find plenty of second-hand shops, eco boutiques, and more. Read my sustainable guide to Munich for more tips on where to shop locally or Kauflokal. 

Unique Cultural Experiences in Munich

If millions of tourists congregating at significant events isn’t really your jam, Munich has plenty of alternative cultural festivals you can attend. During the general Oktoberfest season, many small surrounding towns have what are called Volksfest or Herbstfest. These are smaller events that center around the harvest. Alternatively, other beer fests tend to be smaller and more local. As many of us who have lived in Munich would say, there is always something to look forward to, no matter the time of year. 

Instead of Oktoberfest or Christmas Markets, try:

• Starkbierfest is a local beer festival during Lent featuring strong Doppelbach beer. This is held at the original Paulaner, and I have an entire guide dedicated to Starkbierfest.
• Frülingsfest is a spring festival with rides, beer tents, and a young crowd. It is almost like a mini version of Oktoberfest, held in Munich, in the same location as the big event. 
• The Daucher Volksfest is a small traditional harvest event for the community in Dachau.
• Rosenheim Herbstfest is another small community harvest festival.
• Viehscheid in Allgäu – where small villages parade the cows down from the mountains. Afterward, they celebrate with live brass music, beer, and local delicacies. 
• Auer Dult Traditional Fair happens a few times a year and is similar to what US Americans would call a county fair. It is a medium-sized event with rides, carnival food, vendors, and cultural elements. 
• Oide Wiesn Historic Oktoberfest—taking place at the same time as Oktoberfest, the Oide Wiesn is a historic and authentic look at Oktoberfest pre-mass tourism.

Alternatively, you can check out one of Munich’s alternative Christmas markets. Away from the main city-hosted market at Marienplatz, you’ll find markets focusing on art and sustainability, a queer-friendly market, and a hippy market. Read my detailed guide to Munich’s Christmas Markets with local tips.

Lunch – Munich Street Food

A typical Bavarian lunch might be a cold slab of roasted pork inside a Semmel bun, but I think we can do better! Since lunch is often a quick and casual meal, I’ll highlight some of Munich’s food trucks, street food, and hip vendors that are well worth checking out. 

Cafe Gans am Wasser

One of my favorite quick bites is at Cafe Gans am Wasser. This permanent fixture is right along the water in West Park – my favorite alternative park to the Englishegarten. Cozy up in an old bathtub-turned-couch and order fantastic vegetarian street food and Pommes. During the winter months, you can enjoy Glühwein inside a yurt. This spot is funky with an eclectic collection of refurbished vintage furniture and delicious quick eats, all in a lovely outdoor setting. 

Gans Woanders

Step into a funky treehouse-inspired cafe with several floors of weird and eclectic furniture and table settings. Whether you settle into a vintage wingback chair, their outdoor garden, or at the piano sprouting plants, order a casual light lunch or pizza and enjoy the quirky atmosphere and like-minded people. 

Food Trucks 

Grillin’ Me Softly

Munich’s first fast gourmet food on mobile wheels. This moving truck is making waves in a different part of the city every day of the week. They have gourmet burgers, a veggie and fish option, and a healthy salad.

Another option is Isar Dogs—German sausages all grown up! Isar Dogs is a food truck around the city serving decadent hot dogs, from an Asian-inspired wasabi spice dog to a Tex-Mex option. All their dogs can be made with vegetarian sausage.  

Kebap and Falafel

Germany has become well known for its kebab street food, and you will find hundreds throughout the city. But, with so many options, finding the best place for falafel and kebap is hard. One of my favorite spots was right next to my old place, Make Falafel Not War, which is Syrian-owned. Other local favorites are Erbil’s for Vegan Turkish and Med street food, Sababa Imbiss, and Saimen Schwarma and Falafel.

Munich’s beer gardens are another excellent place to grab quick and convenient food during the summer months. You will find small, hidden gems around the city, with some of my favorites being Hirschau im Englischen Garten, Zum Flaucher Biergarten, Haidhauser Brotzeitstand’l, and Hirschgarten Biergarten.

Sustainable Tip: Make sure your utensils are ready at the food trucks. Places in Munich are transitioning to more zero-waste options, but bringing your reusable utensils is always better than wood or bioplastic utensils offered at most food trucks around Munich. 

Alternative Attractions & Things to Do

While just about every guide to Munich tells you about the beautiful views from St. Peter’s Kirche, the marvelous Marienplatz, and Odeanplatz, you might be wondering – “Well, what other cool sights are there to see in Munich?” Thankfully, there are plenty of alternative and unique things to do in and out of Munich’s old town. 

Explore A Graveyard

I spent most of my pandemic lockdowns wandering the paths of the Alter Südfriedhof, which is the old south graveyard. While it might sound weird to hang out in a graveyard, with Munich’s practical approach to green spaces, it doubles as a park. Some of the graves here date back to the 1700s, but it is still well-maintained, making it a great place to explore. Feel free to go for a leisurely stroll, head out for a job, sit on a bench, or admire the intricate tombstones.

Us locals love to visit during all four seasons to see the spring flowers bloom, collect wild baülauch, enjoy the cool shade in summer, admire the orange leaves in fall, and see the tombstones collecting snow in winter. Keep an eye out for the faceless angel, which is my favorite tombstone.

Watch the Surfers

This might be a bit basic and possibly mainstream by now, but it is still really cool to see the surfers in action. Head to the Eisbach Isar River for endless surfing. Rain or shine, some people will be there to entertain you with their wild surfing antics!

If you bring your swimmers in summer, you can head into the Englishegarten and float down the Eisbach with a beer. 

Rave at the Deutsches Museum

Are you a party monster? Head over to Blitz, one of Munich’s underground techno clubs in the belly of the Deutsches Museum. This club has two rooms, a no-phone policy, a state-of-the-art sound system, and dirty German techno. Void Acoustics designed the sound system in what is widely claimed to be some of their best work with a 4-point Incubus Soundsystem. You can take a break and relax in the Deutsches Museum lobby with a grand staircase – it is surreal. 

Disclaimer: I should note that while my partner and I had some fantastic nights here, quite a few say this club was better before the pandemic. Since I recently moved away from Munich, I can’t attest to the current environment. Several tourists, particularly People of Color, have written negative reviews regarding discrimination. I can’t be sure whether they are trying to be a cool Berlin club with choosy bouncers or they are discriminating. 

Take the Hey Minga Tour

The “Hey Minga Tour” is an alternative Munich tour owned and operated by a German company. The tour guides are local and know some of the city’s best-kept secrets. The tour highlights local businesses while stopping at little Venice in Munich and teaching you about alternative sights. My friends and I all did the Hey Minga Winter Tour, but they have several options. This is the perfect alternative and small-group tour of Munich to see a different side of the city. The best part is you get to ride in a classic VW Bulli.

Update 2024: It looks like Hey Minga is not taking bookings at this time. I’ll update this post if and when they are back in service.

See Alternative Castles 

Instead of Munich’s most famous castle, the Schloss Nymphenburg, head over to Schloss Blutenburg. This adorable castle is a late Gothic castle and church on the banks of the Würm River. The castle is also known as the book castle and is home to a large children’s literature library. Enjoy strolling the quiet and relaxing castle grounds, stopping at the cafe, visiting the chapel, appreciating the sculptures, or checking out the children’s literary library – some of the displays are lovely! After visiting the castle, you can walk the trails along the Wurm, a great alternative to the Isar.

Another underrated castle is Schloss Schleißheim, which is just north of Munich. Schleißheim is widely considered one of the most beautiful Baroque buildings in Germany. Walk through the extensive baroque gardens that feel like a fairy tale. The castle houses some Bavarian National Museum collections and is worth visiting. If you have th Munich City Pass, you can get free entry and public transportation to sites like this!

Don’t miss a quick look at the Alterhof in Munich’s Altstadt, a former imperial residence of Holy Roman Emperor Louis IV, which is now an integrated urban space with a pop-up bar in the summer. 

If you are up for a castle-filled day trip, head to Starnberger See and take the ferry system around the lake in the summer. The shores are lined with castles and old manors of royalty, including Ludwig II and Empress Sisi. 

Hit up A Tollwood Festival

Two Tollwood festivals happen every year, a summer and a winter event. If you are headed to Winter Tollwood, a sizeable sustainable winter market, check out this post on winter activities in Munich. The summer Tollwood Festival has live performances, handmade goods, beach bars, and outdoor beer gardens. Tollwood, as an artistic company, focuses on sustainability, environmental statements, recycled and upcycled art, and global influence.

Visit Bavaria Filmstadt

A surprising number of movies have ties to Bavaria, with filming locations across the city and state. From the original Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Das Boot, and The Never Ending Story, just to name a few. Many props and sets are left as mementos at the Bavaria Filmstadt. You can take a 90-minute tour of the compound to learn all about Bavaria and Germany’s film industry. Not all personal guides speak English, but they have audio guides with multiple languages. 

Aside from the tour, you can enjoy a 10-minute 4D Motion Ride and a VR gaming experience. The feature film is Mowgli’s Jungle Adventure. 

Float Down the Isar

Historically, the Isar has been integral to Munich’s development and essential to transportation. Today, you can experience what it was like to float down the Isar in a log raft. You can join up to 60 other people, a full Bavarian band, a keg or two, and experienced navigators as you float down the Isar River. The journey starts in Wolfratshausen, an old rafting town and a member of the international rafting town association along the Isar. The journey lasts 5-7 hours and is a great way to experience the UNESCO intangible heritage activity of rafting. 

Several companies can take you on the literal ride of a lifetime, but you can start with Fluss Fun. Be prepared for some light rapids and a ride as you navigate the river locks. 

Learn from Dark Tourism

Today, Munich is a safe, welcoming, and vibrant city. However, we would be remiss to ignore the dark history and past. Munich played a crucial role in WWII and was a place frequently visited by Hitler and the Nazi Party for meetings, but it was also bombed heavily. When visiting Munich, you can book a private guided or group walking tour exploring the Third Reich History in Munich.

Alternatively, a day trip to Dachau Memorial Center or Nürmberg, where the trials occurred, might interest you. Dachau was a powerful and emotional experience for me. I’ve visited twice for a deeper understanding, even though it is a difficult place to visit emotionally. It is easy to gloss over this aspect of Munich for more mainstream tours and day trips, but we can all learn from humanity’s dark histories.

See Unique Places of Worship 

Munich is full of stunning places of worship with incredible architecture and history. While most guides will tell you to visit the Frauenkirche or the Theatinekirche with its white interior or St. Peter’s for the view, plenty of other spots are well worth checking out for their interiors or views. 

The Herz-Jesu-Kirche is probably one of Munich’s most striking architectural pieces. This modern Catholic church, built in 2000, contrasts the historic churches with centuries of history. The church is a cube with a glass exterior. The doors open during special events and holidays, revealing a wooden core, creating a striking grand entrance. 

Another striking religious building is the Ohel Jakob Synagogue. The rough stone bottom half contrasts with the towner glass extension for a rustic and modern look. It is a striking building in the quiet Jewish corner of Munich’s old town. You can also visit the Jewish Museum here. Synagogues in Germany have very high security. When we were traveling with our Jewish friend who wanted to see, we were reminded that we needed to purchase admission tickets and arrive with passports and ID. Otherwise, enjoy the exterior. 

The Assam Church is right in the middle of the tourist zone on Senglingerstraße, but it is often overlooked. And if I were to describe any church in Munich as alternative and metal AF, it would be this one! As soon as you enter, your mind will go “WTF” as you gaze upon golden skeletons adorning the walls. This is probably one of the most morbidly gaudy buildings I’ve ever been in, and it is incredible. 

The Archicovent der Templer is my favorite building in Munich. It may be because I was raised as an orthodox Christian in Alaska, and many of our buildings have this family design. The onion-domed towers peak from the forest as you approach. Interestingly, though, this is not an orthodox place of worship; it is instead a monastery dedicated to the historic Trinitarian of the Oriental Orthodox Catholic and Crusader Choir and Hospitaller Order of the Templars that spend most of their time engaging in charitable works in the community. While it is one of Munich’s most striking buildings you can not enter, it is well worth viewing from the outside. 

Take advantage of your Munich City Card and hop on the Sbahn to see the Sankt Joseph Church in Holzkirchen for its striking modern design and domes. 

Finally, for a unique experience, take a day trip to Andechs Monastery and Brewery and visit one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in Bavarian. Today, you can still hike (or take a bus) to the monastery and enjoy scenic views and a reconstructed monastery. The best part is they have a traditional brewery and gastropub on site so that you can enjoy Benedictine-style beer.

Pause for Kaffee & Kuchen

As part of embracing the work/life balance that Bavaria does so well, you must take time out of your alternative itinerary to enjoy a little Kaffee and Kuchen. Many Germans will find a little time between 2 and 4 pm most afternoons to indulge in coffee and cake. And because this alternative guide offers unique things to do in Munich, I’ll recommend my favorite hipster cafes and places to get a snackie or sweet treat.

Sustainable Tip: Oat milk is one of the most environmentally and ethical drinks. You can order Hafer or oat milk at almost every cafe in Munich. All coffee shops encourage and welcome you to bring your cup. 

GartenSalon

This small cafe looks like a garden with green table bases and flowering pink tabletops, perfect for a daily kaffee and kuchen. They serve plenty of vegan cakes and vegetarian goodies to complement your coffee. During the summer, sit out and enjoy their garden terrace. GartenSalon is tricky to find, but they usually have a sign in front of the passageway you must enter to find the inner courtyard. 

Cafe Blá

Cafe Blá is an excellent cafe in Munich with many vegan snacks and drink options, great coffee, ample seating, and free Wi-Fi—seriously, that is so rare for Munich. This Scandinavian coffee shop is ideal for getting some work done or enjoying an excellent coffee and cake break. They make oat milk flat whites and serve savory and sweet waffles, salads, and yummy baked goods.

Man Vs. Machine

Winning the award for the best coffee, according to many locals, this ultra hipster hot spot is complete with tattooed and bearded men making your coffee and offering bite-sized beetroot brownies. With a tiny interior and no WIFI, this isn’t a place to hang out all day, but it is perfect for a great cup of coffee and a small bite on the go.

The Lost Weekend

Popular among students, Lost Weekend is an ultra-hipster hangout that meets all your zero-waste and vegan goals by serving food in glass reusable jars and recycling everything they can. The tables are made from old cardboard boxes. Lost Weekend is a great place to hang out and do some work or enjoy the lively atmosphere with a vegan coffee and snack. 

Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt

This coffee stand is probably the most touristy on my list, but rightly so – it is easily some of the best coffee in Munich. Located in the heart of Viktualienmarkt, you’ll wait in a long line, but it moves quickly. Once you order, just stand and drink your coffee on site before moving on with your day. I love their flat whites and their fast, quality service.  

Gangundgäbe

A specialty and boutique roster in Munich, their coffee is top-notch and tasty! The roster is in the seating area, so the smell of fresh beans fills your nostrils while you enjoy a perfect cappuccino. It is a small location, but don’t let that fool you with a 5-star review on Google; you can’t go wrong here. They operate on a weird schedule – even by Munich standards, but the few times I’ve been lucky enough to get coffee here have been well worth it. 

Standl 20

Some argue the coffee here is better than Man vs Machine, and the service is even better. I agree with the latter, but the former is up for debate. Shop at Elisabethmarket and take a break at this cozy little store. The menu includes a few tasty little treats to give you energy for your day. You can also buy beans here if you need to stock up.

Der verrückte Eismacher – im Wunderland 

This Alice in Wonderland-themed ice cream parlor is a funky stop for ice cream. Sit among mushrooms and caterpillars while you enjoy a wide variety of flavors, including an “only in Munich” flavor of Augustiner Beer, which tastes like straight-up beer.

EisCafe Eismeer 

This lovely ice cream spot, owned by a gay couple, is in the heart of the LBGTQI district. It serves gourmet ice cream bowls overflowing with decadent toppings. The restaurant has a full bar for ice cream, beer floats, and champagne ice cocktails.

Munich’s Craft Breweries

Almost every tourist knows about the famous Hofbräuhaus right downtown; Munich has a myriad of craft breweries and alternative spots to try Munich’s big six beers.  

Giesinger Brew

These guys are just as serious about beer as the big six breweries, if not more so. They don’t joke around about beer, and neither should you. Straying from the traditional purity laws, they have flavorful and robust brews that are refreshing compared to conventional Bavarian beer. But, natürlich, you can still drink more traditional beers on site. Stop by their brewery for beer, food, and local products. I love their craft beers like the Lemondrop triple or unique beers like the Winterbock for a lovely seasonal drink. They only ship within Bavaria, so this is a unique experience.

Crew Republic

Another hipster microbrew, these guys basically do what they want, and if you don’t like it, too bad. They love their ales, so try their Pale Ale, American Ale, or their take on a Helles. Watch for their beer at any of the bars or head to their brewery for a tour. I love their Drunken Sailor beer. 

Kiosk Reichenbachbrücke

Weirdly enough, my favorite place to get craft beer in Munich is a small kiosk on the shores of the Isar. Swing by the Reichenbachbrücke Kiosk for dozens of craft beers. Grab a few local ones from Munich and hit the banks of the Isar for a lazy day out in the sun. 

Paulaner Bräuhaus

If you still want to drink a traditional Munich beer but want an alternative to the touristy-filled Hofbräu, visit my old local favorite, the Paulaner Bräuhaus. Enjoy this quiet and traditional experience, which includes a cozy atmosphere, great food, and refreshing Paulaner beer in steins. 

Augustiner Keller

Another one of my favorite local spots was the Augustiner Keller. With a traditional beer garden and gastropub indoors, this is another alternative spot to enjoy traditional beer, just slightly more off-the-beaten-path. 

Weihenstepehan Brewery

One of the oldest breweries still operating in the world, Weihenstephan, is an excellent day trip from Munich for beer lovers. Book the tasting and tour for a behind-the-scenes look at this incredible brewery. 

For more information on everything beer-related in Munich, don’t miss my entire post dedicated to Munich’s beer, breweries, and beer-themed activities and day trips.

Places to Slow Down

With many tourism itineraries, sharing how to pack in dozens of things in 24 or 48 hours, I’m here to encourage you to take it slow in Munich. You could easily spend 5+ days exploring Munich and enjoying these places where locals love to hang out and enjoy a slower pace. While Englischegarten is probably the most popular, these alternatives will have you relishing being in the moment. 

Isar Flaucher

Anywhere along the Isar, you can find pockets of peace and quiet. I lived right by the Isar for nearly seven years, and especially during the pandemic lockdowns, I spent many hours walking and slowly exploring every region.

My favorite areas are in the southern region. Whether I dipped my toes in the water under the Wittelsbacherbrücke, ventured down to my favorite area called the Flaucher, or wandered through the many trails around Osramspielplatz, I encourage you just to start walking south following any of the trails in whatever direction catches your eye until you find a relaxing place.

Bring a book, a friend, a bottle of wine, or a small picnic, and enjoy being immersed in nature. 

Hackerbrücke Sunsets

This is a mega local secret, so you didn’t hear it from me, but catching a slow summer sunset from the Hackerbrücke is a chef’s kiss. Bring a beverage, and disconnect from the internet. Hop on the bridge’s railing and watch as trains pass below and the sun sinks slowly over the horizon. 

Westpark 

Westpark was my favorite place to ride my bike. I would park at the park entrance and slowly walk up the gentle slopes of the forested part of the park. Hidden among the flowers and trees are little benches and chairs. Find one that you like and enjoy the birds and sounds of nature. Don’t miss the Asian pagoda and garden or the Rosegarten tucked away at the far ends of the park.

Schlossparkl Nymphenburg

While Schloss Nymphenburg is undoubtedly one of the top attractions in Munich, the entire grounds encompass a massive park that few tourists explore. You can enter from the main gates and head back into the park, taking whatever path appeals to you. You’ll likely cross charming forested bridges and finally come across the Badenburger See, which has an incredible view.  Work your way to Hirschgarten in summer for one of my favorite beer gardens.  

Au – Riverway

The Au Mühlbach riverway is often called Munich’s little Venice – but I don’t think that does either Venice or this special place in Munich justice. From Candidplatz, follow the Au along the forested network. You’ll see so many charming little houses and woodpeckers and enjoy a deep, quiet experience. 

Northern Englischergarten

If you are going to head to the EG, then keep north to find peace. You can walk, bike, or catch a bus to the northern part of the park. As one of the largest urban parks in the world, it is surprising that most people keep to the lower touristy portion. Anything north of the 2R autobahn is magical; the further you go, the quieter and more relaxing it gets.

Dinner: Vegan & International Food

While Munich might be known to the outside world for its pork knuckle and schnitzel, vegan and vegetarian food is increasingly popular among Munich hipsters and environmentally responsible locals. In fact, Germany was just ranked the 6th best country in the world for vegetarians!

In addition, Munich has some amazing Afghani, West and East African, and Vietnamese food! So, if you want something other than German food, try these vegan and ethnic recommendations. 

Sustainable Tip: Are all vegetarians hipsters? We like to think so, haha. Not eating meat (and dairy, as mentioned above) is the best way to help the planet. Don’t believe me? Read this.

Gratitude

If you are vegan, treat yourself to dinner here at least once on your trip to Munich. This fully vegan restaurant has a flavorful, coursed dinner menu paired with organic wines. We would make a reservation here to enjoy birthday dinners. It is an upscale yet approachable restaurant with a great ambiance and wait staff. The food was so tasty, and even my non-vegan family loved it!

Green Beetle

This Michelin-recommended restaurant is an incredible fine-dining experience. If you want to dress up and enjoy healthy, vegetarian, gourmet food, you must make a reservation here. Green Beetle is owned by Käfer, an iconic Munich establishment known for quality baked goods and food and one of Okterberfest’s best tents. 

Siggis

A 100% vegan restaurant that wonderfully cooks fresh fusion food with Mexican and Asian flavors. Come for a lovely, intimate candle dinner, or grab a to-go sandwich. They also have vegan sweet treats like ice cream and pastries. 

Chopan

Some of Munich’s best Afghani food is served at Chopan. I love getting their spicy eggplant and Afghani rice and pairing it with an excellent red wine. My girlfriends would often get lamb or meat dishes. We enjoyed many girls’ nights, indulging in good food, wine, and long conversations. 

Blue Nile

Blue Nile has some excellent Ethiopian food. This is great for a group of friends, and you can get vegetarian food for 4, which comes with an Ethiopian flatbed and several types of traditional dishes piled on the flatbread. Divide and enjoy some of Munich’s best international food. 

Need More Food! Check out my entire post dedicated to vegan and vegetarian food in Munich.

Craft Cocktails in Munich

For a massively detailed guide, check out my nightlife guide to Munich. But for the best hipster brews and cocktails, check out this shortlist.

Sustainable Tip: Always order your cocktail without a straw. Even more so, if you’re at an outdoor event using plastic, bring your cup! To say without straw in German, you say, “Ohne (oh-ney) Strohhalm (strow halm).”

Jaded Monkey

A cocktail bar that belongs in Melbourne or New York, this swanky bar serves up some wild cocktails with unique ingredients and complex recipes. The mixologists are talented and only make some of the best drinks in Munich. This place is expensive, and the drinks are so complicated that they can take a while to complete. The money and the time are well worth the result, though. They change their menu often and expect whatever you order to come with a big presentation. 

Boilerman Bar

A new bar in town is located inside the 25Hours Hotel, and if you know their brand, you know they have good bars! Watering locals and travelers alike, this laptop-free bar has tasty drinks and a great vibe. They serve Highball cocktails, so try the Highball of the day or stick to the classic Scotch and Soda.

Bar Gabányi

One of my favorite neighborhood bars, Gabányi is in the basement of a heritage house off a quiet street. In the summer, sit outside in a garden; in winter, cozy up in a room with funky art and a lovely piano. The mixologists are incredible and can offer recommendations based on your tastes, but their seasonal menu is always creative and exciting. 

Zum Wolfe

This bar is your new best friend if you like whiskey, bourbon, and rye. Zum Wolfe was another one of my neighborhood bars serving up well-mixed whiskey drinks. Come here for a cozy neighborhood cocktail bar along one of Munich’s best streets. 

Bambule

A Michelin-recognized group runs this bar. Tucked away in one of my favorite hotels in Munich, it is an excellent place to hang out. I love the vintage decor and cozy seating. This is a fantastic bar to meet remote workers or international locals.

Munich’s Alternative Areas

Glockenbach

Glockenbach is my old neighborhood and one of the best alternative spots in the city. In the heart of the LBGTQI district, you’ll find many great boutique shops, restaurants, bars, ethical shops, and rainbow maypoles! This is a vibrant neighborhood where mostly fun-loving locals like to hang out. I suggest using Gartnerplatz as a launching point, exploring the circuit of roads branching off from here. Then, walk along the forested riverways, visit the graveyard, and finish the day by the Isar River, drinking beer and watching the sunset.

Maxvorstadt

One of Munich’s leading universities is the lifeline of this area, so you’ll find many alternative university hangouts, lower prices, vegan options, thrift stores, and minimal plastic waste. Start at the Universität bahn stop and then head west along Schellingstraße or up Türkenstraße. Spend the day thrifting, checking out museums, shopping at zero-waste boutiques, grabbing coffee, and ending the night in a dive bar. 

Werksviertel Mitte

This ultra-hip container park is one of the best hipster things you can do in Munich. It is a bonus the area supports local and small businesses. This enormous compound is filled with reused shipping containers painted with street art, making this another good stop on your street art tour. The concept here is to allow small businesses to lease a container for three months for a low cost, enabling them to test the waters and see if people are interested enough in their product before they sign a permanent lease. Inside the containers local spirits, handmade crafts, food, bars, art, and more! Support your small businesses and come to the Werksviertel Mitte!

Bahnwärter Thiel

It has a similar vibe to the Werksviertel Mitte (lots of shipping containers covered in street art), but subtract the small businesses and add a DJ and a party. A retired U-Bahn or subway car set the stage for a DJ booth and bar. Dance in the dance floor pit with recycled pallets for seating when you need a break, climb a ladder to sunbathe in a loft with recycled carpets and pillows, or swing from the hammocks while the party happens around you. This is a seriously cool and hip place to party, and it reminds me of something you would see in Berlin.

Alte Utting

A boat on a train track? Yep, that’s right! Munich took the retired Alte Utting boat and found some way to get it on top of an old overground train track – so it looks like it is suspended in the air. Alte Utting is more than the boat; it has several restaurants, including excellent pizza and West African food. There is a bar so you can enjoy your drink in the belly or deck of the boat. In the winter, the Utting is home to a funky Christmas market.

Sleep at a Boutique Hotel

Munich hotels are hit or miss. They are often overpriced and stuffy; at other times, they are old and drab. Finding the right hipstery goodness is challenging, but thankfully, I’ve chosen a few of my favorite centrally located boutique hotels so you can get a good night’s sleep. I’ve personally stayed in every one of these hotels during my seven years living in Munich and visiting the city many times over the last fifteen years.

25Hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian

One of my favorite hotels in Munich, 25Hours The Royal Bavarian, combines luxury and a hip ambiance for the young-at-heart traveler. It is centrally located, so you’re close to the Hauptbahnhof and Munich’s major tourist sights. You’ll love finding all the hidden gems that showcase the Royal Bavarian bloodline, like swans and the color blue, sprinkled around the hotel. The rooms are comfortable and decorated in line with the Bavarian theme but are small. You will only want to spend a little time in your room, with a great coffee shop, lounge, bar, and the fantastic Israeli fusion restaurant, NENI, all within your reach. They even offer bicycles and mini coppers to explore Munich on two or four wheels. You won’t want to check out once you arrive.

I want to thank the 25 hours for inviting me to stay with them to complete the hotel portion of this guide. All opinions are my own, and all other recommendations and activities are tried and tested personally and not sponsored.

Flushing Meadows

Another great boutique hotel that focuses on minimal and classy design. Locally owned and operated by Munich locals, this gem is in the heart of Munich’s lively Glockenbach neighborhood. Flushing Meadows is the perfect location for the laid-back hipster. I stayed here on my most recent visit back to Munich and enjoyed the independence, the hipster vibes, and the location. Head up to the bar for a great cocktail and a view if you want more action.

Schwan Locke

I loved staying at Schwan Locke. This modern boutique hotel has rooms with small kitchenettes and workstations. But, if you don’t feel like working from your room, join locals, expats, and remote workers in the co-working space. Order a coffee from the cafe and hunker in the indoor or outdoor lounge. This is the ideal location for hip travelers looking for a longer stay with laundry, co-working, a gym, and well-stocked rooms.

Living Hotels

My favorite local boutique hotel, the Living Hotels, is family-operated and started in Munich. With an impressive sustainability report card and friendly local service, the hotel at Vitualienmarket is ideal for those looking for a sustainable and comfortable stay with great customer service.

Unique Day trips

Once you’re done exploring the alternative side of Munich and all these unique things to do in the city, head out on a particular day trip. 

Of course, I have day trip guides to popular places like Zugspitze and Neuschwanstein, but there are plenty of hidden gems that only a local would know about.

• Murnauer Moos for a unique nature day trip
• Tegernsee for hiking and beer!
• Geek Guide to Munich

Discuss and Share

I hope you enjoyed this unique and local guide to Munich. By getting off the beaten path,  you’ll leave with memories most tourists don’t get. These alternative things to do help you explore Munich in a more mindful approach away from the tourist hot spots to support more local businesses and sustainable endeavors.