A Day Trip to Munich, Germany

Two years ago, Rashid and I with our son- always the third wheel, carved out a full day to explore Munich, the heart of Bavaria. It turned into a perfect mix of modern innovation, historic charm, and timeless culture — all within a single day.

Morning at BMW Welt

We began at BMW Welt, Munich’s stunning museum and exhibition hall dedicated to the iconic brand. With its sleek glass-and-steel architecture, it feels like stepping into the future of design. Inside, you can admire both vintage classics and the newest models — everything from motorcycles to concept cars. Walking through the space, I felt the blend of German precision and artistry that has made BMW a household name worldwide.

It’s not just for car enthusiasts; BMW Welt is interactive, stylish, and welcoming for anyone curious about innovation and design. A perfect way to kick off the day.

Midday in Marienplatz

From there, we shifted gears — literally and figuratively — and headed into the historic city center at Marienplatz. Surrounded by Gothic and Baroque architecture, flower-decked balconies, and bustling cafés, the square is the beating heart of Munich. The Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) dominates the plaza with its intricate Gothic Revival façade. Crowds gather daily for the Glockenspiel, where carved figures act out Bavarian tales high above the square.

Standing in the middle of Marienplatz, with the bells chiming and people pausing to watch, I felt the pulse of the city — equal parts lively and timeless.

Frauenkirche

A short walk brought us to the Frauenkirche, Munich’s beloved cathedral. Its twin towers, capped with green copper domes, are visible from across the city. Inside, the cathedral’s soaring white columns and stained-glass windows create a serene, awe-inspiring atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you slow down, speak softly, and let the beauty of the space do the talking.

Travel Tips for Your Day

We drove in from Bad Gastein, Austria, about a 2.5–3 hour ride through the Alps and Bavarian countryside. If you’re already in Munich, though, it’s just as easy to get around by train or U-Bahn.

  • BMW Welt is right at Olympiazentrum Station on the U3 line.
  • Marienplatz & Frauenkirche are steps away from Marienplatz Station, served by U3, U6, and the S-Bahn.
  • For the Glockenspiel show, arrive around 11 a.m. or noon.
  • Late afternoon light makes the Frauenkirche especially beautiful inside.
  • And don’t forget to pause for coffee and cake at a local café — Munich’s bakeries are part of the experience.

One day in Munich is just enough to catch its contrasts — futuristic BMW design in the morning, historic bells of Marienplatz at midday, and the solemn calm of Frauenkirche by afternoon. Together, they show why Munich is a city worth lingering in, even if you only have a day.

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