Spot the best hotels near Marienplatz

Marienplatz serves as the central pulse of Munich, acting as the city's main square since 1158. It is home to the striking Neues Rathaus, where the mechanical Glockenspiel performs its daily dance for crowds gathered below. Strolling through this historic space allows you to soak up the local atmosphere while admiring the golden Mariensäule statue standing at its heart.

Marienplatz offers a rich history and is a vibrant hub for exploration in the Bavarian capital. It is usually bustling with locals and travellers alike, so arriving early helps if you want to beat the crowds. You will find that most of the main pedestrian streets branch off from here, making it a natural meeting point.

Visiting details and logistics

The square is an open public space, so you can wander through at any time of day or night. While there is no fee to enter the square itself, some of the specific attractions nearby, such as the tower climb at St. Peter's Church, do require a small entry fee. If you want to see the famous clock performance, aim to be there for 11:00 or 12:00, as these are the primary times it rings. During the summer months, there is an additional show at 17:00.

Most of the area is level and paved, which makes it easy for those with limited mobility to navigate. You can find the main tourist information office located right inside the New Town Hall. To get a bird's-eye view, the lift in the New Town Hall takes you up 85 metres to a viewing gallery. Please check the official landmark site for up-to-date information regarding specific opening hours and ticket availability for the towers.

Architecture and unique features

The most striking feature is undoubtedly the New Town Hall, a Neo-Gothic masterpiece that dominates the north side. Its facade is decorated with intricate statues of Bavarian dukes and mythical creatures. In the centre of the square stands the Mariensäule, a tall column erected in 1638 to celebrate the end of a Swedish occupation.

On the east side, you will spot the Old Town Hall, which looks like something out of a fairy tale with its pointed spires. The real draw for many is the Glockenspiel, located in the tower of the new hall. It features 32 life-sized figures that perform a dance commemorating a royal wedding and the end of a plague. The entire show lasts about 10 minutes to 15 minutes.

History and background

This spot has been the city’s main square since its founding in 1158. For centuries, it served as a bustling market where grain and salt were traded. It was originally called Schrannen, but it was renamed in 1854 to ask for protection during a cholera epidemic.

The square has witnessed everything from medieval tournaments to political rallies throughout the centuries. Although many of the surrounding buildings were heavily damaged during the 1940s, they were carefully restored to their former glory. Today, it remains the site of major celebrations, including the annual Christmas market which has been held in the city since the 14th century.

Marienplatz is easily accessible and offers a convenient base for exploring Munich, with numerous accommodation options nearby.

Where to stay nearby

If you want to be in the middle of the action, look for accommodation in Altstadt, which is the old town area. You can find high-end hotels and charming boutique stays tucked away in the narrow streets just 150 metres from the main square. For those travelling with kids, the area near Sendlinger Tor is a bit quieter but still only a 10-minute walk away. If you are watching your budget, heading slightly north towards Maxvorstadt gives you a more local feel with plenty of cafes, while staying within 1.6 kilometres of the central hub.

Getting to the square

You can reach the square easily from Munich Central Station by taking any S-Bahn train heading towards the city centre, which takes about 3 minutes. The Marienplatz Station is located directly beneath the square, serving both the S-Bahn and U-Bahn lines U3 and U6. If you are coming from the airport, the S1 or S8 lines will get you here in roughly 40 minutes, and the station is equipped with lifts for step-free access.

Picking your perfect base near Marienplatz is easy with eDreams. You can easily look at hotels that suit your style and grab the best deals without any fuss. Whether you want to stay 500 feet from the town hall or find a quiet spot a few miles away, the right hotel is waiting for you. Just pick the features you love and see which hotels fit your plans. Start your Munich adventure today and book a great hotel with eDreams to make the most of this historic city.