photo of the Monopteros in the English Garden which offers multiple summer outdoor activities in Munich

A Munich summer is a world of opportunities! Thanks to the beautiful weather during this season, you can enjoy a lot of activities and see the city in all its glory. The summer landscape is a haven of relaxation and adventure with all types of summer outdoor activities in Munich to suit all ages and preferences. 

Whether your idea of a perfect summer is relaxing in beautiful parks or swimming in a river, you’ll find what you’re looking for in the beautiful Bavarian capital. This article explores the top 10 things to do when the sun is shining in Munich!

Sunbathing at the English Garden

One of the largest urban parks in the world, the Englischer Garten or English Garden (main image) is a perfect spot to spend a leisurely day while catching some rays. You can enjoy lots of summer outdoor activities in Munich in one place, thanks to the versatility of this public park.

It’s a haven for sunbathers, picnickers, and those seeking a dip in the cool waters of the Eisbach River that flows through the gardens, or a serene stroll amidst the beauty of nature. You can also rent a paddleboat on the Kleinhesseloher Lake, relax by the picturesque Japanese teahouse, or even catch some surfers riding the waves of the Eisbach River. Adventures of all kinds await at this summertime paradise!

Visit the Nymphenburg Palace Gardens

photo of the Nymphenburg Palace in Munich, Germany

If you love nature, during summer you’ll really enjoy strolling around the estate of the stunning Nymphenburg Palace (pictured). The lavish gardens are a beautiful world of colour and glorious scents. With the palace nearby, as you stroll past lush greenhouses, fountains and perfectly manicured lawns, you’ll also get a glimpse into Bavaria’s royal past. 

The palace is a Baroque masterpiece and the gardens surrounding it are just as captivating. During summer, you can visit the cafe in the middle of the estate and get a cup of coffee with a slice of cake, and even ride a gondola across one of the natural lakes.

Beer Garden Bliss

Beer gardens are a huge part of Bavarian culture. These outdoor havens, often housed in traditional Bavarian “Biergarten”, are a fun, laidback way to get an authentic Munich experience.  Besides the crisp Bavarian beer, freshly-baked pretzels, and hearty Bavarian cuisine, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy mingling and chatting with different people in the beer gardens. With over 180 beer gardens in the city, you can choose from large, busy establishments like the Hofbräuhaus or quaint, hidden gems like the Seehaus in the English Garden. Some other popular choices include the Hofbräukeller, Augustiner-Keller, and the Hirschgarten. No matter which one you choose, nothing says summer in Munich like enjoying a cold beer in a traditional beer garden!

Bike Tour of Munich

photo of bicycles in Munich

There’s something truly liberating about exploring Munich on two wheels. The Bavarian capital is renowned for being a bike-friendly city, offering numerous cycling paths and routes. Some of the most popular routes take you along the Isar River, through lush green parks, and famous landmarks like the Nymphenburg Palace and Olympiapark. 

If you prefer a more scenic route, you can take a longer tour of the surrounding countryside. You can hire a bicycle from any of the bike shops in the city and spend your day enjoying the beauty of summer with the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin. As a guest of KING’s Hotels Munich, you can rent a bike directly from the lobby!

Explore the Viktualienmarkt

Located in the heart of Munich, the Viktualienmarkt open-air market is a food lover’s dream come true! As you stroll through the market and visit different stands, you can sample local delicacies, pick up fresh produce, or simply soak in some good vibes as street musicians entertain the crowds.

Along with delicious Bavarian delicacies, this is the perfect place for an ice-cold beer on a warm summer’s day. No matter what time of the day you visit the market, there’s plenty for you to enjoy there, from morning coffee to a hearty afternoon lunch while you take a break from bargain hunting.

Attend Summer Festivals and Events

photo of revellers at the Tollwood Summer Festival in Munich
Munich transforms into a vibrant hub of activity during the summer, bursting with a plethora of festivals and events that cater to a wide array of interests. Among the many highlights is the Tollwood Summer Festival (pictured above), which offers a dynamic mix of music, art, and theatre. This festival stands out as a cultural feast, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in diverse performances and artistic expressions. Another cherished event is the open-air film screenings at the  Kino, Mond & Stern cinema. These screenings provide a magical setting to watch films under the stars, offering an ideal way to spend a summer evening. This unique cinematic experience perfectly combines the pleasure of movies with the charm of Munich’s outdoor spaces. These events are just two examples of the many vibrant activities that Munich offers during the summer season!

Exploring the Olympiapark

The legacy of the 1972 Olympic Games lives on in the famous Olympiapark. Now a recreational hub, the Olympiapark is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities. You can take a walk around the park, rent a bike, go rollerblading, and even try out the climbing wall! 

While you’re here, you can also enjoy a gorgeous view of the city from the Olympic Tower. The Olympic stadium is also often the venue of many fun concerts during the summer where you can let your hair down, dance, and sing along to some lively tunes.

Visit An Amusement Park

photo of people enjoying a thrilling ride at Legoland near Munich
What can be more thrilling than a visit to an amusement park? Bavaria has plenty to choose from, each offering hours of fun and excitement. Some popular amusement parks near Munich that you can visit include Superfly, a 20-minute drive, or about 45 minutes by train; Legoland, about an hour by car or two hours by public transport; and the Bavaria Filmstadt theme park, a 25-minute drive or about 45 minutes by train. At these and others, you can enjoy thrilling rides, fun shows, and lots of family-friendly entertainment.

Picnic by the Isar River

Picnics are a combination of everything there is to love about summer — fresh air, warm sun, good company, and yummy food. One of the best places to enjoy this summer activity in Munich is by the scenic Isar River

You can find a peaceful spot along the banks of the river, lay down a blanket, and spread out goodies from your picnic basket. It’s the perfect picnic spot where you can relax all afternoon, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the coolness of the water – there are points where swimming is permitted!

Zip Across the Sky

photo of a daredevil enjoying the thrill of the Flying Fox zipline at the Olympic Park in Munich
An adrenaline-filled activity is a great way to spend the day during summer. With the perfect setting of clear skies and warm sun, a zipline adventure will make the day even better. The Flying Fox is one of the most popular in the city, allowing you to soar across the Olympic Park. As you sail along the course, you’ll get spectacular views of the city’s skyline and the Bavarian Alps. If you’re an adrenaline junkie (and don’t have a fear of heights!), then this is the perfect outdoor summer activity in Munich for you!

Summer Outdoor Activities In Munich: Final Word

As we wrap up our journey through Munich’s best outdoor summer activities, it’s evident that the city offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, set against a canvas of stunning scenery and cultural richness. From the tranquillity of sunbathing in the Englischer Garten to the lively atmosphere of the Viktualienmarkt, there’s something to satisfy every outdoor enthusiast.

Munich’s vibrant summer scene invites both locals and visitors to enjoy its unique blend of historical charm and modern leisure. Whether you’re exploring by bike, enjoying a concert at the Olympiapark, or soaking in the local culture at a beer garden, Munich promises a summer filled with delightful experiences and lasting memories!

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