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Design Guide: Things to Explore in Munich

Things to Explore in Munich During Munich 2026

Munich blends precision engineering, contemporary design, and Bavarian heritage. Whether you're extending your stay after DDX or arriving early, here’s a curated selection of cultural highlights and dining spots worth exploring.

**Art & Design Highlights**

From modern architecture to industrial design icons, Munich offers a rich landscape of creative influence and cultural depth.

Here are some must-visits:

Munich, Germany - photo by Max Mustermann, via Unsplash

**BMW Museum**

Iconic automotive design and future mobility concepts. Architecture + engineering storytelling at its best.

**Pinakothek der Moderne**

One of Europe’s largest museums for modern and contemporary art, design, architecture, and graphics. A must for anyone in UX, product, or industrial design.

Pinakothek der Moderne, Munich — photo by AuHaidhausen, licensed under CC BY 4.0

Futuro House, Pinakothek der Moderne, Munich — photo by Henning Schlottmann, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Haus der Kunst, Munich - photo by Burkhard Mücke, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

**Haus der Kunst**

Bold contemporary exhibitions in a powerful historic space. Often thought-provoking and experimental.

**Sightseeing & City Discoveries**

Munich blends royal heritage, modern architecture, and expansive green spaces, offering a cityscape explored on foot.

**English Garden**

One of the largest urban parks in the world. Walk, reflect, or watch surfers on the Eisbach.

Englischer Garten, Munich - photo by Max Mustermann, via Unsplash

Englischer Garten, Munich - photo by Bruna Santos, via Unsplash

Eisbach surfers, Munich - photo by Max Mustermann, via Unsplash

Chinese Tower Beer Garden, Englischer Garten, Munich photo by Sarah Donovan, via Unsplash

Antiquarium, Residenz Munich — photo by Ian Kelsall, via Unsplash

Hofkapelle, Residenz München — photo by Stephan Hoppe, licensed under CC BY 4.0

**Residenz München**

Historic royal palace with stunning interiors — a contrast to modern Munich.

**Schloss Nymphenburg**

A vast baroque palace with symmetrical gardens and reflective canals. Ideal for a slow architectural walk, especially in the early morning light.

Schloss Nymphenburg, Munich - photo by Peulle, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Schloss Nymphenburg, Munich — photo by Diego Delso, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Olympiapark, Munich — photo by Agent J, via Unsplash

**Olympiapark München**

Iconic 1972 Olympic architecture with sweeping tensile roof structures. Design-forward and surprisingly futuristic.

**Frauenkirche**

Munich’s most recognizable landmark. Climb the south tower for one of the best skyline views in the city.

Frauenkirche, Munich - photo by Martin Falbisoner, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Monopteros, Englischer Garten, Munich — photo via Unsplash

**Munich After Dark**

As evening falls, Munich shifts into a more intimate rhythm, from refined cocktail bars to lively beer gardens and cultural venues.

Tantris restaurant, Munich - photo by Michael Rose, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

**Tantris**

Two Michelin stars and bold 70s interior design. A destination in itself.

**Augustiner-Keller**

Traditional Bavarian beer garden atmosphere, perfect for international guests.

Augustiner Biergarten, Munich — photo by Bbb, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Gärtnerplatz, Munich — photo by Andreas Praefcke, licensed under CC BY 3.0

**Gärtnerplatzviertel**

Creative district with small bars, independent shops, and relaxed energy.

Munich is full of experiences worth exploring beyond the conference. From world-class museums and historic architecture to expansive green spaces and refined dining, this guide is here to help you make the most of your time around DDX Munich.

*Ready to dive into what we’ve got planned at DDX Munich?*

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The 2026–27 tour

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