Munich is full of green oases, but hardly any place exudes as much dreamy charm as the Auer Mühlbach. This approximately seven-kilometer-long urban stream is located in southern Munich, east of the Isar, and is fed directly by its waters. Especially at the corner of Mondstraße and Voßstraße, below the Giesinger Berg, you’ll find a setting that’s affectionately known as Munich’s “Little Venice” —and for good reason. Amid quaint old buildings, blooming backyards, and the gentle lapping of water, you’ll discover the perfect, peaceful retreat. Anyone strolling through the neighborhood on a sunny or autumn day can enjoy a truly idyllic setting and that pure vacation feeling right in the heart of the big city.
From an eyesore… to an oasis of relaxation: The history of the Auer Mühlbach
The fact that you can enjoy this piece of nature above ground again today is by no means a given. Back then, the Munich Old Town was characterized by a multitude of canals and streams . In the 19th century, Munich residents still used the water to power mills and forges, as well as for washing clothes.
Later, however, the city administration viewed the streams as traffic obstacles and a financial burden. They were piped, covered with concrete slabs , or even filled in with concrete. It wasn’t until decades later that the city recognized this mistake and began to rethink its approach: Since the year 2000, the massive covers have been gradually removed, so that today the water can flow freely again and serve as a green oasis to help cool the city. These days, the city even refers to its past mistake as “a disgrace.”
A dreamlike route for walkers to explore and linger
📍 “Little Venice”: Voßstraße 7, 81543 Munich-Untergiesing-Harlaching
A stroll along the stream is worthwhile in every season and makes for a wonderful, relaxed run or fall walk . It’s best to start at the Friedensengel, make a quick stop at the picturesque Kabelsteg, and follow the babbling stream upstream through the floodplain. After a leisurely stroll, you’ll finally reach the enchanting “Little Venice” on Mondstraße in Untergiesing.
As it flows by, the stream passes colorful community gardens, small bridges, mill wheels, and houses built right on the banks of the stream. If you work up an appetite while exploring , simply take a leisurely break—perhaps for a hearty soup at the restaurant Henry hat Hunger.
