Looking for the best churches in Munich? Great idea! Munich’s churches are among the city’s most impressive cultural landmarks, combining history, architecture, art and even panoramic views. On a hot day, they are also a fantastic place to cool down for a few minutes.
This guide is designed specifically for first-time visitors who want a curated, efficient and memorable experience. You’ll discover not only the top churches in Munich, but also practical travel tips and a ready-to-use walking route.
Planning your Munich itinerary? Save this guide and use it as your personal walking tour to discover the city’s most beautiful churches.
Quick Overview
Top 5 Churches in Munich:
- Frauenkirche
- Asamkirche
- Theatinerkirche
- St. Peter’s Church
- Ludwigskirche
„Kirche“ is the German word for „church“, if you haven’t worked it out yet. 😉 They are the perfect addition to a 1–2 day Munich itinerary. Three of them are just around the corner from each other, and the other two a short walk away.
1. Frauenkirche – The Icon of Munich
The Frauenkirche, Munich’s cathedral, is the most famous church in Munich and one of the city’s defining landmarks. Its two onion-domed towers dominate the skyline and serve as a navigation point throughout the old town.
The church was built in the late 15th century. Its minimalist Gothic style contrasts with the more ornate churches you’ll see later in this list.
Why It Stands Out
The Frauenkirche is an instantly recognizable Munich landmark. Fun fact: No building in central Munich can be taller than the church towers. These towers were not destroyed during WWII, because they served as reference points for the Allied bombers.
The church is very centrally located near Marienplatz. Step inside through the main portal to see the “Devil’s Footprint”. It is completely authentic – the devil stamped his foot here when he realised he lost a bet!
Practical Tips
- Visit early morning to avoid crowds
- You can go up one of the towers – it’s a combination of stairs and elevator
- Check out some of the old tombstones in the church walls – they were left when the graveyard that used to be here was closed
2. Asamkirche – Munich’s Hidden Baroque Gem
If you only visit one “hidden gem” in Munich, make it the Asamkirche. This small private church on the pedestrian Sendlinger Strasse was built by the Asam brothers and is considered one of the finest examples of German Baroque architecture.
The interior is intense. This is not a Scandinavian-minimalist church! Golden details, frescoes, statues – one visit is not enough to spot every detail. The Asam brothers were church decorators and they used the Asamkirche as their private place of worship, but also as their showroom.
Why It Stands Out
The Asamkirche is one of the most beautiful small churches in Europe. It has so much artistic detail in a compact space, and yet is less crowded than major tourist sites (don’t think you’ll be all alone, though).
Practical Tips
- This one is a stunner even if you are not particularly interested in churches
- Easy to miss! Look for the church tower on Sendlinger Straße
- Best visited midday when light enters the interior
3. Theatinerkirche – Italian Elegance in Munich
Located at Odeonsplatz, the Theatinerkirche immediately catches your eye with its bright yellow façade. Inspired by Roman Baroque churches, it adds a Mediterranean feel to Munich’s architecture. Its official name is St. Kajetan und Adelheid, but I have never heard anybody use that name.
Inside, the church is almost entirely white, with lots of stucco decoration.
Why It Stands Out
Theatinerkirche, the first Baroque church in Bavaria, is an eye-catcher due to its unique color and architecture. King Maximilian II of Bavaria (whose son King Ludwig II gave us Neuschwanstein castle) is buried here, along with his wife, Queen Marie.
Practical Tips
- Visit during sunset for the best exterior photos
- Combine with a walk through the nearby Hofgarten
4. St. Peter’s Church – Best View in Munich
St. Peter’s Church, known locally as “Old Peter,” is the oldest church in Munich, built in the 12th century. A church so old has gone through a lot. Can you spot the canon ball that is still stuck in one of the church walls?
Most people come for the views rather than the church itself. Climb the tower for a panoramic view of Munich’s rooftops and, on clear days, the Alps. This is great exercise after a hearty Bavarian meal. Just 306 stairs and you are there!
Why It Stands Out
It’s the oldest church in Munich! In the center of the high altar stands a golden statue of St. Peter. Its crown is removed whenever a Pope passes away, and is only put back on once a successor has been elected.
In December, there is a small market for handmade Christmas crèches outside the church.
Practical Tips
- Tower climb requires a small fee
- Wear comfortable shoes (many steps!)
- Don’t bother climbing the tower on an overcast day
5. Ludwigskirche – A Masterpiece of Art
The Ludwigskirche is a must-see for art lovers. Its most famous feature is the monumental fresco “The Last Judgment” (200 sq.m.), one of the largest altar frescoes ever created. It contrasts nicely with exposed brick walls and starry skies painted on the ceiling.
Located near the university, the church also offers a more local, less touristy atmosphere. When I visited, there were only about five other people there.
Why It Stands Out
The inside of the Ludwigskirche is very striking due to its massive and historically significant artwork. From the outisde, it is easily recognisable thanks to its coloured roof tiles. It is the official university church for the nearby Ludwig Maximilian University.
Practical Tips
- Combine with a visit to the university district
- Less crowded than central churches
Bonus Church: St. Michael Kirche
It’s easy to walk past the St. Michael Kirche, which sits right on the main pedestrian shopping street between Marienplatz and Stachus. Do step inside for a minute, however.
Have you been to Neuschwanstein castle? King Ludwig II, who built the castle, is buried in this church.
Perfect Walking Route
You can visit all five churches within a few hours.
Suggested Route:
Sendlinger Tor → Asamkirche → St. Peter’s Church → (Viktualienmarkt/Marienplatz →) Frauenkirche → Theatinerkirche → (Odeonsplatz) → Ludwigskirche
From Sendlinger Tor (U1/2/3/6/7/8), walk along pedestrian Sendlinger Strasse towards Marienplatz. Asamkirche will be on your left-hand side. Step inside and be awed.
Once your brain can no longer process what your eyes are seeing, continue towards Marienplatz. At Fürstenfelder Str. (UGG store on your left, Rosen pharmacy on your right), turn right and then left onto Rindermarkt. St. Peter’s will be on your right within a minute or two.
You could now make a detour to Viktualienmarkt for a snack, or continue across Marienplatz. You can already see the towers of the Frauenkirche, so make your way towards them. Find the little square at the main door to marvel at the church’s size, then step inside to check out the devil’s footprint.
Once you’re done exploring the Frauenkirche, walk back in the general direction of Marienplatz. As you hit the main pedestrian street Weinstrasse, turn left and walk towards Odeonsplatz. (Or, if you need a break, head towards the Bayerischer Hof hotel and enjoy a drink on their rooftop terrace. Pricey but nice.)
As you reach Odeonsplatz, you will notice a large yellow building on your left. That is Theatinerkirche.
If you continue straight ahead with the church on your left, you will end up walking along Ludwigstraße, named after King Ludwig I of Bavaria. You will pass a number of grand city palaces on your left, as well as the Bavarian State Library on your right. Just beyond the Library, on the right side of the street, is Ludwigskirche.
At the end of your explorations, you could head into the English Gardens (the Milchhäusl kiosk/beergarden is just a short walk away), wander into the university area with its shops and bars, or catch the subway, lines 3 and 6, back into the center.
Duration: 2–3 hours (with breaks)
FAQ
What is the most famous church in Munich?
The Frauenkirche is the most famous church and a symbol of the city.
Which church has the best view in Munich?
St. Peter’s Church offers the best panoramic views. On a clear day, you may even be able to see the Alps.
Are Munich churches free to enter?
The churches themselves are free, but to access the towers, you will have to pay a small fee.
Travel Tips for Visiting Churches in Munich
- Dress respectfully (especially in smaller churches)
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds
- You cannot walk around in a church and take photos when a service is going on
- Combine church visits with nearby attractions
- At Frauenkirche and St. Peter’s, check out the old tombstones that are now part of the outer walls (the churches‘ graveyards were relocated in the late 18th century)
- Check opening hours (they may vary on Sundays)
Conclusion
Exploring the best churches in Munich is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the city’s history, architecture, and culture. Whether you’re drawn to Gothic landmarks, Baroque masterpieces, or panoramic views, these five churches offer something for every traveler.