Summer in Munich is a fantastic time to experience the city at its best. From beer gardens to open-air festivals to adventurous water activities—Munich has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Munich this summer.
Visit beer gardens
A visit to one of Munich’s many beer gardens is an absolute must. Under the tall trees, you’ll find refuge from the summer heat and enjoy a cold lager in your shady spot. You can bring your own snacks, but you can also get a selection of snacks and meals on-site. Many beer gardens now even offer vegan options, so no one has to go home hungry.
Dance at open-air festivals
In the summer, Munich is a hotspot for open-air festivals of all genres. Whether it’s techno, pop, or hip-hop, whether it’s well-known artists or newcomers, there’s something for everyone here. Dance for hours under the open sky and lose track of time as you simply let the music carry you away. In addition to established names like Superbloom or Isle of Summer, new gems pop up every year, such as Heartbeatz or the Reborn Festival. So it’s guaranteed never to get boring.
In August, the Perseids streak across the night sky, making wishes come true. You’ll experience an even more dazzling light show at the Drone Art Show, which also takes place in August and lights up the sky over Munich. To the soundtrack of Harry Potter™ , they perform their dance, creating magical moments that fans of the franchise won’t soon forget.
What could be better than enjoying the sunset over Munich with a cool drink? That’s when the real summer feeling kicks in. Grab your friends and let’s go! Munich has quite a few great rooftop bars to discover, whether it’s with a pool and a flock of sheep at Werk 3 or on wooden planks at the Kulturdachgarten. Enjoy the view of the city skyline while sipping a few refreshing, fun drinks.
If you’re looking to cool off on hot days, Munich has more than enough options. In addition to the outdoor pools and quarry ponds, the Isar River is a particularly popular spot in the summer. Since it flows right through the entire city, you can easily reach it from anywhere. Let yourself drift a bit down the river or just sit in the water for a while before lounging in the sun on the bank. Always be sure to note that there are certain areas where swimming is prohibited, and you should comply with these restrictions.
Go hiking
There are numerous hiking trails around Munich just waiting to be discovered. The Herzogstand on Walchensee offers not only breathtaking views but also a cozy mountain hut where you can stop for a break. For a slightly less challenging outing, the Tegernsee High Trail is ideal. This trail offers beautiful views of Lake Tegernsee and the surrounding mountains. If you’re looking for shade on sunny days, you should check out the gorges and ravines, such as the Maisinger Gorge on Lake Starnberg or the Geisterklamm.
