Munich · Old Town
Marienplatz
The central square of the old town, dominated by the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus. The Glockenspiel in its tower plays figures and bells for a few minutes, and the square is free and open at all hours.
- 1 h
- Free
- Booking: not needed
- Old Town
Data checked on October 5, 2026
Marienplatz has been the centre of Munich for centuries and is still where the pedestrian streets meet. The Neues Rathaus fills one side with a long carved facade, and the older town hall stands at the east end. The Glockenspiel runs through two scenes: the 1568 ducal wedding and the Schäfflertanz, the coopers' dance. The square also works as a meeting point and a first orientation before the churches and markets nearby.
What to look for
- Glockenspiel show in the Neues Rathaus tower
- Mariensäule, the column in the middle of the square
- Carved facade of the Neues Rathaus
- The Old Town Hall at the east end
Opening hours
Always open.
The Glockenspiel plays daily at 11:00 and 12:00, with an extra show at 17:00 from March to October and a short evening show at 21:00. It stays silent on Good Friday.
Source: City of Munich (muenchen.de), checked October 5, 2026
Tickets and booking
Free. Watching the square and the Glockenspiel costs nothing. The tower viewing deck is a separate ticket.
Getting there
Marienplatz station is under the square, served by the U3, U6 and every S-Bahn line through the centre.
Tip
Arrive five minutes before 11:00 to find a spot facing the tower. The crowd thins out right after the show.