Shopping in Munich
Discover where to shop in Munich, from boutiques to markets, and find the typical souvenirs to bring back from the German city. Although not particularly known as a shopping destination, Munich is a city with an excellent shopping offer.
From international designer boutiques to stores selling traditional Bavarian handicrafts, you're bound to find what you're looking for when shopping in Munich.
What to buy in Munich?
- Traditional clothing (Trachten): known as Lederhosen for men, and Dirndl for women, traditional Bavarian garments are an original souvenir of your trip to Munich. While rarely worn in daily life, this is perfect for Oktoberfest!
- Beer steins: whether it's glass, pewter or ceramic, is there a more typical souvenir of Munich than a traditional beer stein? Do one better and get one from the historic Hofbrauhaus, which also sells a range of other beer-related paraphernalia.
- Nymphenburg porcelain: handmade porcelain objects and works of art have been made at Nymphenburg Palace since the 18th century. From traditional-style tableware to unusual figurines designed by contemporary artists, all sorts of creations can be purchased there today.
- Typical foods: a more economical souvenir, locally made chocolate is sold all over the city, and Lebkuchenherzen gingerbread hearts (often used as decorative ornaments at Christmas) can be found at the Viktualienmarkt.
Munich's main shopping streets
- Neuhauserstrasse: a pleasant pedestrianised street and one of the main arteries of the historic centre. Find department stores and international chains here.
- Kaufingerstrasse: one of the oldest streets in Munich, this is another of the main shopping areas in the city.
- Theatinerstrasse: elegant pedestrian-only street between Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz with many designer stores and perfumeries.
- Maximilianstrasse: lined with a number of different architectural styles from different eras of history, Maximilianstrasse is one of the city's main avenues and home to exclusive boutiques and independent fashion shops.
- Leopoldstrasse: the main street in Schwabing, one of Munich's more bohemian districts, enjoy an agreeable stroll down Leopoldstrasse, explore its side streets for interesting stores and stop in one of its many cafes and restaurants for a well-earned break.
Markets in Munich
- Viktualienmarkt: open daily since 1807, Munich's historic food market is a true treat for the senses, as well as being one of the main spots in the city to buy fresh produce and local goods: find flowers, fruits, fish, spices, meats, wines, tea collections and more! The Viktualienmarkt also has a popular beer garden for a refreshing stein after your retail therapy.
- Flohmarkt Olympiapark & Flohmarkt Daglfing: bargain hunters, assemble: Munich's flea markets have everything from clothes and antique furniture to vintage collectibles. Better leave room in your suitcase!
- Christmas markets: held in Marienplatz, Munich's traditional Christmas market dates back to the 14th century. It's big and crowded, but full of delicious foods and festive spirit!
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