Munich’s Marienplatz: A Family Travel Guide

Every time we step out from the Marienplatz S-Bahn station, I am always reminded of why Munich is utterly beautiful despite my constant whine about its weather and cold seasons. The city, with its blend of history, culture, and modernity, feels like a storybook come to life. As new parents, we’ve learned to see Munich’s Marienplatz through a different lens—one that involves navigating cobblestone streets with a stroller, pausing for impromptu feedings, and finding stroller-friendly places to explore with our infant in tow.

In this guide, we’ll take you through Marienplatz, the heart of Munich. Whether you’re visiting or rediscovering it as a local, there’s something magical about this square, and it remains accessible and enjoyable for parents with strollers. From where to stay, to things to do, to where to eat, here’s how to explore Marienplatz as a family.

Where to Stay near Marienplatz: 5 Family-Friendly Hotels

If you’re traveling to Munich and want to stay close to Marienplatz, there are several hotels nearby that offer comfort, convenience, and family-friendly amenities.

Hotel Bayerischer Hof

Address: Promenadeplatz 2-6, Altstadt – Lehel
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Located just a short walk from Marienplatz, this luxurious hotel offers a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. The hotel is spacious enough for strollers, and the staff is attentive to the needs of families with children. They provide cribs, high chairs, and other baby essentials upon request.

Mandarin Oriental Munich

Address: Neuturmstrasse 1, Altstadt – Lehel
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Known for its impeccable service, the Mandarin Oriental is another excellent option for families. While it’s a bit more exclusive, it’s worth it for its large rooms, quiet ambiance, and family-focused services. It’s located just a few minutes from Marienplatz, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.

Platzl Hotel

Platzl Hotel combines Bavarian charm with modern amenities. This hotel offers family rooms and is centrally located near Marienplatz. The staff is known for their hospitality, and they can help with anything from stroller-friendly routes to arranging babysitting services.

Address: Sparkassenstr. 10, Altstadt – Lehel
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Cortiina Hotel

If you’re looking for a stylish and modern stay near Marienplatz, the Cortiina Hotel offers spacious suites that are perfect for families. The hotel is a short walk from the square and has an excellent reputation for accommodating young families, offering amenities like cribs and bottle warmers.

Address: Ledererstrasse 8, Altstadt – Lehel
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Living Hotel Das Viktualienmarkt

Address: Frauenstrasse 4, Altstadt – Lehel
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This eco-friendly hotel, located right next to Viktualienmarkt and a short walk from Marienplatz, is perfect for families. They offer apartments with kitchenettes, making it easy to prepare meals for your little one. The hotel is stroller-friendly, and its central location allows easy access to many of Munich’s top attractions.

A Brief History of Marienplatz

Marienplatz, Munich’s central square, has been the heart of the city since its founding in 1158. Named after the Marian column (Mariensäule) erected in 1638 to celebrate the end of the Swedish occupation, the square has been a central point for trade, markets, and public gatherings for centuries. Over the years, it has witnessed political demonstrations, royal parades, and holiday festivities. Today, Marienplatz is still the vibrant epicenter of the city, surrounded by historic buildings such as the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) and Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall).

One of the most notable features of Marienplatz is the Glockenspiel in the tower of the Neues Rathaus, which performs its daily mechanical show, recounting historical Bavarian events through life-sized figures. Standing in the square and watching the Glockenspiel, with its chimes filling the air, is a tradition for visitors and locals alike.

Top 10 Things to Do in and Near Marienplatz

1. Watch the Glockenspiel Show

The Glockenspiel is one of Munich’s most iconic attractions. Every day at 11 a.m., noon, and 5 p.m. during the summer, the figures in the tower come to life, reenacting stories from Munich’s history. The show lasts around 15 minutes—just enough time for parents to enjoy while keeping their baby entertained in the stroller.

2. Explore the Neues Rathaus

The stunning Gothic architecture of the Neues Rathaus dominates Marienplatz. Take a stroll through the courtyard or, if you’re up for it, take the elevator up to the tower for breathtaking views of Munich. The courtyard is stroller-friendly, though the tower may be best explored on a day when you’re baby-wearing rather than using the stroller.

3. St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)

Munich’s oldest parish church, St. Peter’s Church, is located just off Marienplatz. While the church is stroller-accessible, climbing to the top of its tower, known as “Alter Peter,” is best done without one. However, it’s worth a visit for its beautiful interior and quiet space for reflection. You can also just lock the stroller outside and climb up the stairs with the little one. The view is seriously awesome.

4. Visit the Viktualienmarkt

A short walk from Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s famous food and farmers’ market. It’s a stroller-friendly destination where parents can explore fresh produce, local delicacies, and the beer garden. Stop by for a quick snack or a leisurely lunch.

5. Shop Along Kaufingerstrasse

Kaufingerstrasse, Munich’s busiest shopping street, extends from Marienplatz and offers a wide variety of stores. While it can be busy, the wide pedestrian street is easy to navigate with a stroller. You’ll find everything from international brands to local Bavarian shops.

6. Take a Break in Hofgarten

If you need a quiet moment, Hofgarten is just a short walk from Marienplatz. This peaceful garden is a great place to relax while your little one naps in the stroller. The manicured lawns and fountains offer a serene escape from the bustle of the city.

7. The Residenz

For those interested in history and architecture, the Munich Residenz, located near Marienplatz, is a must-visit. While parts of the palace are stroller-accessible, some areas may be easier to navigate with a baby carrier. The museum is spacious and quiet, making it a great indoor activity for parents with young children.

8. Walk to Odeonsplatz

Odeonsplatz is another beautiful square located a short walk from Marienplatz. Along the way, you’ll pass several stunning buildings, including the Theatine Church. The area is stroller-friendly, with wide sidewalks and plenty of space to explore.

9. Max-Joseph-Platz

This elegant square is home to the Bavarian State Opera and the Residenz. While you may not attend an opera with a baby in tow, it’s worth visiting for the architecture and a stroll through the area. The square is easily accessible with a stroller.

10. Attend a Seasonal Festival

Marienplatz is home to several festivals throughout the year, from Christmas markets to summer street festivals. These events are family-friendly and typically stroller-accessible. The Christmas market, in particular, is a magical experience for parents and children alike, with festive lights, music, and food stalls.

Where to Eat: 5 Bavarian Restaurants Near Marienplatz

Eating out with a stroller in Munich is not as difficult as one might imagine. Many traditional Bavarian restaurants are family-friendly and offer enough space for a stroller while providing authentic local cuisine.

1. Ratskeller München

Located in the basement of the Neues Rathaus, the Ratskeller is a historic Bavarian restaurant offering hearty, traditional dishes. The restaurant is spacious and stroller-accessible, and the staff is welcoming to families. It’s a great place to try Bavarian classics like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and Weißwurst (white sausage).

2. Haxnbauer

Famous for its roast pork knuckles, Haxnbauer is located near Marienplatz and offers a warm, rustic atmosphere. The restaurant is stroller-friendly, and the staff is used to accommodating families with young children. The menu is packed with Bavarian favorites, and the portions are generous.

3. Augustiner Klosterwirt

This restaurant, located near St. Peter’s Church, is a great spot for families wanting to enjoy traditional Bavarian food. The spacious interior is stroller-friendly, and the staff is attentive to the needs of young children. They serve a range of Bavarian specialties, from roasted meats to dumplings, with a cozy beer hall ambiance.

4. Schneider Bräuhaus

For a taste of Munich’s famous Weißbier (wheat beer) brewed by Schneider, head to Schneider Bräuhaus, a Bavarian tavern located just off Marienplatz. The restaurant is stroller-accessible, and the lively atmosphere makes it an enjoyable spot for families. They offer classic Bavarian dishes, as well as lighter options for those looking for a quick meal. This is our personal bias. This is where we mostly eat when we are in the neighborhood.

5. Bratwurstherzl

For a more casual Bavarian dining experience, Bratwurstherzl offers delicious grilled sausages and traditional sides. It’s a cozy restaurant located near Viktualienmarkt, with a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families. While the seating area is smaller, the staff is accommodating, and it’s a great place to stop for a quick bite while exploring the area.

Practical Tips for Exploring Marienplatz with a Stroller

Timing: Marienplatz can get crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. For a more relaxed experience, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the crowds have thinned out.

Weather: Marienplatz is open and exposed to the elements, so be prepared for Munich’s changing weather. Bring sunscreen, hats, and a rain cover for the stroller, depending on the season.

Baby Essentials: There are several pharmacies and shops near Marienplatz where you can pick up baby essentials like diapers, wipes, and snacks.

Public Transportation: Marienplatz is well-connected by public transport, and the S-Bahn and U-Bahn stations are stroller-accessible. Use the elevators to navigate to and from the platforms with ease.

Elevators and Accessibility: Marienplatz’s S-Bahn station has elevators, making it easy for parents with strollers to access the trains. Elevators are not normally crowded since there are stairs and escalators available in every exit. Elevators are really reserved for parents/carers with strollers and wheel chair users.

Plan for Naps: The area around Marienplatz is full of open squares and gardens like the nearby Hofgarten, perfect for stroller naps. While your little one dozes, you can enjoy the serene surroundings or grab a coffee at one of the nearby cafes.

Pack Snacks: Although Marienplatz has plenty of dining options, it’s always a good idea to pack some snacks for your baby. The Viktualienmarkt, just around the corner, offers plenty of fresh produce and small bites, which makes it easy to grab something on the go.

Final Thoughts

Marienplatz holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors. As new parents, it has become a cherished part of our daily life in Munich—a place that offers beauty, history, and culture, while remaining accessible and welcoming to families. With its stroller-friendly attractions, cozy Bavarian eateries, and wide open spaces, exploring Marienplatz with your infant in tow is not only feasible but deeply rewarding.

From watching the Glockenspiel with wide-eyed wonder to strolling through Viktualienmarkt for fresh treats, Marienplatz is an adventure in every sense. Whether you’re visiting or, like us, rediscovering it as parents, this iconic square will provide endless moments of joy, both for you and your little one.