The heart of Munich with historic splendor and carillon
Address: New Town Hall, Marienplatz 8, 80331 Munich | Opened: 1906 (New Town Hall) – 1158 (Marienplatz)
The New Town Hall is an imposing building in the heart of Munich, directly on Marienplatz. The building was constructed in the Gothic Revival style. The design for the building was by Georg von Hauberrisser, a young architect who was just 25 years old. Since 1906, the imposing building with its tower and carillon has dominated the square. Those who climb the tower enjoy a unique view of Marienplatz and the city. But the interior of the New Town Hall also holds many exciting surprises for those interested.
Directions and location of this Munich landmark
The New Town Hall is centrally located in Munich on Marienplatz, the main square in the old town. This highly recognizable building is located opposite the Marian Column, which forms the focal point of Marienplatz. Also at the eastern end of the square, directly adjacent to the New Town Hall, is the Old Town Hall.
The surrounding area is not only surrounded by other interesting sights, but also by the Weinstraße (Weinstrasse) and Kaufingerstraße, a popular shopping street in the Bavarian capital. Not far from the New Town Hall and Marienplatz are Odeonsplatz and Viktualienmarkt.
Opening Hours and Tours
The New Town Hall and Marienplatz in Munich can be visited at any time to admire the impressive neo-Gothic façade and the special features of Marienplatz. A visit in the evening is particularly noteworthy, when spotlights illuminate the building and create a special atmosphere on Marienplatz. Those who would like to see the New Town Hall from the inside can do so during certain opening hours.
New Town Hall – Opening Hours
Monday to Saturday:
10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Sunday:
10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
There are only a few days a year when the New Town Hall is closed. These include May 1st, November 1st, December 25th and 26th, New Year’s Day on January 1st, Epiphany on January 6th, and Shrove Tuesday. Guided tours of the New Town Hall are offered on all other days.
Admission Prices for the New Town Hall and Marienplatz
There is no admission fee to visit Marienplatz because it is a public square. A reasonable entrance fee applies to visit the New Town Hall and climb the tower. The panoramic view of the city from the observation tower is priceless. Please note that the last ascent to the tower is 15 minutes before closing time. Admission prices are as follows:
Town Hall Tower Admission Prices
Adults:
€7.00 per person
Children and teenagers between 7 and 18 years:
€3.00 per person
Children under 7 years:
Free
Guided tours of the New Town Hall are also offered. Tickets are available at the Tourist Information Center. You can also conveniently book a tour online in advance.
Guided Tours of the New Town Hall and Marienplatz
Guided tours of the New Town Hall and Marienplatz are an absolute must for history and architecture enthusiasts. Well-trained guides provide fascinating insights into the charming neo-Gothic architecture and the history of the building.
These tours are available at specific times: Friday at 6:00 p.m., Saturday at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about the New Town Hall and Marienplatz
How old are the New Town Hall and Marienplatz?
The New Town Hall in Munich was built between 1867 and 1906. It opened in 1906. This makes the impressive building 118 years old since its completion. Marienplatz is significantly older. It dates back to the time of the city’s founding in 1158.
How big is Marienplatz?
Marienplatz is about 50 meters wide and about 100 meters long and is located in the center of the Salzhandelsstraße (Salt Trade Street) between Karlstor and Isartor.
Who designed the New Town Hall?
The architect Georg von Hauberreisser, just 25 years old, designed the building and was awarded the contract to build it.
How tall is the tower of the New Town Hall on Marienplatz? The historic tower of the New Town Hall rises 85 meters into the sky. You have to crane your neck to see the top. A special gem is the carillon with 43 bells, which is located in the tower.
What is there to see in the New Town Hall?
The building houses the Law Library, which covers an area of 120 square meters. It is more than 10 meters high and has large shelves and gilded spiral staircases, which makes it one of the most beautiful libraries in Munich.
What landmark is located on Marienplatz in front of the New Town Hall?
The Fish Fountain is located on Marienplatz in front of the New Town Hall. This is a distinctive building on Marienplatz and not only a landmark, but also a popular meeting place.
Marienplatz and New Town Hall – Special Features and Interesting Facts
Marienplatz is part of Munich’s cultural and historical center. It is a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists. The square owes its name to the Marian Column. Originally, the square was used as a venue for celebrations and tournaments, as well as a marketplace.
Today, Marienplatz is considered a central square for celebrations and public events. It is part of the Munich Oktoberfest, and FC Bayern Munich also uses it for its championship celebrations. Another attraction on Marienplatz is the Fish Fountain.
From Marienplatz, you can also enjoy a unique view of the neo-Gothic New Town Hall and listen to the carillon in the town hall tower. The unique sounds of the carillon can be heard daily at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. From March to October, it also rings out again at 5 p.m.
Anyone visiting Munich around Christmas shouldn’t miss the Christmas market on Marienplatz. While cafés and restaurants with their outdoor dining options dominate Marienplatz during the summer months, magical stalls adorn the square in the run-up to Christmas, creating a true Christmas atmosphere.
Marienplatz is dominated at its western end by a unique building, the New Town Hall. The impressive neo-Gothic facade is richly decorated with arches, statues, and ornaments and is considered a masterpiece of architecture. A closer look reveals scenes from Munich’s city history, patron saints, and Bavarian rulers.
The famous Town Hall carillon shows spectators scenes from the history of Bavaria. The tower of the New Town Hall is another attraction. Those who ascend to the observation deck are rewarded with a spectacular view of Marienplatz, Munich’s Old Town, and the Alps on a clear day. The tower, at approximately 85 meters high, is one of the most striking landmarks of the Bavarian capital.
There is hardly any place in Munich where you can experience the unique symbiosis of Munich’s city history and modern vibrancy as closely as on Marienplatz and the New Town Hall.
Historical Facts and History of Marienplatz and the New Town Hall
Munich’s Marienplatz looks back on a long and significant history. In the 12th century, it served as Munich’s trading center and marketplace. Not only did medieval markets take place on the square, but tournaments and festivals were also held there. Executions were also carried out there.
The square was given the name Marienplatz in 1638, after the Bavarian Elector Maximilian I had the Marian Column erected. It is a memorial and a token of thanks to the Mother of God, who protected Munich from the destruction of the Thirty Years’ War. To this day, the Marian Column remains the focal point of the square and a protective symbol of the city.
Anyone who gazes across Marienplatz will immediately see the New Town Hall, a neo-Gothic building that reflects Munich’s heyday in the 19th century. Due to the city’s rapid growth, the New Town Hall had to be built because the Old Town Hall didn’t have enough space to accommodate the entire administration.
The New Town Hall was designed by the then twenty-five-year-old architect Georg von Hauberrisser. The richly decorated facade and the tall tower in the Neo-Gothic style demonstrate that the architect was inspired by Flemish town halls. Construction began in 1867. The main building was built first, completed in 1874. This was followed by an extension, completed in 1909.
The New Town Hall was not only the seat of the city government, but also the scene of significant events in Munich’s history. The First Soviet Republic was proclaimed there in 1919. The town hall also played a role in the 1920s, during the rise of the National Socialists. World War II left its mark on the New Town Hall. After the war, damage was restored to its original state.
In the interior design, the architect remained true to the Neo-Gothic architectural style. Extensive use of marble and granite was made. There are magnificent meeting rooms and committee rooms. Granite and marble can be found throughout the building. The Hauberreisser Room, number 200, is an authentic office room from a bygone era.
Sights and attractions in the immediate vicinity of Marienplatz and the New Town Hall
There are many sights and attractions to admire in the immediate vicinity of Marienplatz and the New Town Hall. Some sights are more hidden, while others are immediately noticeable. Therefore, it’s worth exploring the New Town Hall, Marienplatz, and the surrounding area with curiosity and taking in the impressive treasures.
Right on Marienplatz stands the Juliette Capulet statue, a replica of Nereo Costantini’s enchanting Juliet. This bronze figure commemorates the unhappy love affair between Romeo and Juliet. The replica in Munich is 265 centimeters tall. Touching the breasts is said to bring the person luck in love. The statue often holds a bouquet of fresh cut flowers in its arms, given to it by admirers.
The Toy Museum at Marienplatz is a special experience for young and old. There, you can marvel at old trains with carriages, old, historic dollhouses, stuffed animals, and dolls from bygone times. Ship models and vintage vehicles are also part of the extensive repertoire.
If you look closely at the exterior facade of the New Town Hall, you’ll discover a large dragon on the southwest corner. This statue is said to be based on the dragon-slayer legend, in which it is said that the dragon brought the plague to Munich. Even today, the Schäfflertanz (Coopers’ Dance) commemorates the dragon’s slaying and the defeat of the plague.
Directly adjacent to Marienplatz and the New Town Hall is the Rindermarkt (Cattle Market). Munich’s cattle market used to be located on this site. Today, the Rindermarkt is a tranquil area with a fountain, reminiscent of the former cattle market. If you take a quick look around, you’re sure to spot the Ruffinihaus (House of the Ruffini) and the Löwenturm (Lion Tower).
Shopping enthusiasts can’t miss Ludwig Beck. The department store is not only architecturally one of the most beautiful in Munich, but also offers a comprehensive selection of brands and products. In the evening, the building and the impressive shop windows shine with a very special glow, creating an exclusive world of light and shadow.
Cafés and restaurants near Marienplatz and the New Town Hall
You don’t have to look far to sit comfortably and enjoy delicious regional dishes, coffee treats, and cakes. Each café and restaurant at Marienplatz and the New Town Hall offers its own unique character, from rustic coziness to a modern ambiance.
Ratskeller Munich
Located beneath the New Town Hall, in the neo-Gothic vaults, the Ratskeller on Marienplatz impresses with its tranquil ambiance. There are ten unique dining rooms where guests are treated to culinary delights. The menu includes hearty pork knuckles, schnitzel, white sausages with sweet mustard, and Kaiserschmarren (a traditional Bavarian dish). Freshly tapped Bavarian beer, delicious wine, or non-alcoholic beverages are served.
Address: Ratskeller Munich, Marienplatz 8, 80331 Munich
Junger Peter – ArtCafé
Those who enjoy coffee specialties in an exclusive atmosphere have come to the right place at the art café “Junger Peter – ArtCafé” on Marienplatz. The cozy dining room offers plenty to discover and is a very comfortable place to sit. Delicious coffee specialties are served, and small appetites can be satisfied with a variety of delicious dishes.
Address: Junger Peter – ArtCafé, Marienplatz 8, 80331 Munich
Wildmosers on Marienplatz offers its guests not only regional cuisine, but also European and Mediterranean dishes. In addition to roast pork with dumplings and red cabbage, the menu also includes pizza, pasta, and salad creations. The dining room is comfortably furnished. On summer days, you can sit on the outdoor terrace and admire the glockenspiel at the New Town Hall.
Address: Wildmosers, Marienplatz 22, 80331 Munich
Café Woerner’s on Marienplatz is in a prime location and offers a unique view of the New Town Hall and Marienplatz. The outdoor terrace is also open in nice weather. In cooler temperatures, cozy blankets and a heater provide warmth. The menu features various regional delicacies. Coffee creations, cakes, and desserts are also available.
Address: Café Woerner’s, Marienplatz 1, 80331 Munich
At Café Glockenspiel on Marienplatz, guests can choose between a delicious breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. Breakfast creations range from rolls with cold cuts and cheese to delicious scrambled eggs with bacon or fried eggs. The lunch and dinner menus are very varied. Guests can choose between fish, meat, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options. From the outdoor terrace or a window seat, you can admire the carillon in the town hall tower.
Address: Café Glockenspiel, Marienplatz 28, 80331 Munich
The restaurant Nürnberger Bratwurst Glockl am Dom is located on Frauenplatz, just a few meters from Marienplatz. Delicious German, European, and Central European dishes are lovingly prepared in the kitchen. From Nuremberg bratwurst with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes to roast pork and grilled pancakes and Kaiserschmarrn, everything is served. A freshly tapped wheat beer, a delicious wine, or soft drinks round out the meals.
Address: Gaststätte Nürnberger Bratwurst Glockl am Dom, Frauenplatz 9, 80331 Munich