Many years ago, I saw a movie filmed in the Netherlands about how people take pleasure in cycling to many places. I got inspired, and thought to myself that one day, I’ll do just that—go places by bike.
Munich is super bike-friendly, there are cycle lanes on the road and bike trails are everywhere. In this city everybody has their own bicycles, young and adults alike. Even the smallest kid has their own bike, it’s so cute! And there are different bicycles to see, bikes made from recycled materials, electric bikes, mountain bikes, three-wheeled bikes, bikes with baskets, you name it, you can find it in bicycle stores or rental shops across the city. In fact, this is where I’ve seen the most unique, sometimes the weirdest looking bikes in my life. And this seems to bring great joy to the citizens.
Residenz, and the Feldherrnhalle, and several cafes. Munich is a city filled with bike lanes and trails.
The bike culture is so alive in Munich, it would be difficult not to get into it yourself when you start living here.
A few months before the lockdown began, my husband and I decided to purchase a bike for me to use. which I named Cooper, and since then, Cooper became a part of my daily life. Whether running errands, going to work, visiting places, and especially seeing the best of Munich, I now always rely on my bicycle. I’ve never really loved and enjoyed biking tours until I moved to this city. With that said, here’s how you can explore the most popular spots by bike in Munich.
You can start from Konigsplatz, a timeless architecture built in the 19th century. Konigplatz’s name originated from the Greek term Propylaia, which referred to the building at the entrance to the Acropolis in Athens. It is one of the spots you shouldn’t miss in this city for this is where you can easily have a taste of the culture and day-to-day life of the locals. On this bike tour, you’d enjoy and immerse yourself in the history beneath this incredible landmark.
The next suggested stop for a bike tour is Odeonsplatz. During my first few weeks in Germany, Odeonsplatz was one of the places we’ve visited by bike. It’s a busy square where people gather, meet, and enjoy while sitting and watching others carry on with their daily activities. During special events or holidays, local vendors display and sell their products in this area of Odeonsplatz. Moreover, you’d get a sense of history in this part of the city with all of the old architecture and establishments nearby. Ultimately, Odeonsplatz is a fine place to get a feel of the city.
After that, you can move on with your bike Munich tour to Marienplatz, that’s just nearby Odeonsplatz. One of the busiest attractions and prominent landmarks throughout Munich, Marienplatz is a stunning area, with plenty of gothic historical buildings to gawk at. The view is especially fantastic at night and during the Christmas season as there are lots of shopping stores, restaurants, cafes, and other establishments to check out. Do not miss the Rathaus or the town hall where you can watch a 10-minute show of the glockenspiel, a dancing puppet with chimes. After watching the show, you can go and grab a gelato or a cup of coffee in a cafe around the area.
The next stop is Hofgarten where a cycling experience does not disappoint. Hofgarten or Courtyard garden in English is a beautiful garden close to Odeonsplatz. It’s a quiet and peaceful spot to stroll around, take pictures, or simply relax on the benches. And if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a violinist who will serenade you during your stay.
As Munich is renowned as one of the safest places on earth to ride a bike, there are no reasons not to see what it offers on a two-wheeled transport. While the pandemic may take some time before it goes away, not to mention the hassle of restrictions and lockdowns, going around by bike in Munich is the best way to enjoy the city. Consider these top famous places when biking to have a glimpse of the interesting culture, appreciate the magnificent architecture, and experience local living in Munich.
Image courtesy of Catherine Kaiser