No matter when you visit, you’ll never run out of fascinating exhibits in Munich to explore. The city is bursting with world-class museums, cutting-edge science displays, and immersive cultural showcases that cater to every interest. Whether you love history, art, technology, or something a little more unusual, there’s always something to spark your curiosity.
From awe-inspiring masterpieces to mind-bending interactive installations, Munich’s exhibitions offer unforgettable experiences that will stay with you long after you leave. To help you discover the most extraordinary ones, we’ve rounded up 10 must-see exhibits that will truly blow your mind.
1. The Magic Bavaria
You won’t find a spellbinding experience anywhere quite like The Magic Bavaria (featured image). Perfect for all ages, this is an experience that gives you a new perspective of Bavaria through fun and illusions. Located in the first basement of the Mona shopping centre in Munich, The Magic Bavaria offers a fascinating upside-down experience in a space of 1,000 square meters.
The installation is divided into various creative rooms where a different experience awaits you at every corner. The rooms showcase exciting illusions, amazing upside-down worlds, and a ball pool where you can swim around for hours, toss balls at your friends and have a fantastic time of mindless fun.
The Magic Bavaria has a 4-star rating on Google, showing just how popular it is. Like one Google reviewer put it, “If you want to take your family to a place which will leave them with memories that last a lifetime, Erlebnismuseum Magic Bavaria is the place…” Another reviewer called it a “Fun and very unique experience! Definitely a must-see in Munich.”
2. WOW Museum
Image source: WOW Museum
Looking for an exhibit in Munich with a real wow factor? Then you’ll love the WOW Museum with a 4-star rating on Google. Aptly named, this exhibit is an entertaining, interactive experience like no other with illusions that will leave you questioning reality in all the best ways. As one Google reviewer commented, “WOW – The name says it all. Impressive rooms that leave you wondering whether you can trust your eyes.”
With optical illusions galore offered through 19 unique illusion rooms comprising worlds of light, mystifying patterns and many more, WOW Museum offers hours of fun and wonder for all.
You’ll find dedicated photo stations throughout the museum and plenty of cool photo spots where you can immortalise your memories of this great experience in awesome pictures. Don’t have a camera? No stress! As another visitor wrote, “even without a camera, you get your money’s worth here thanks to the many built-in self-triggering cameras whose images can be downloaded from the museum website…” .
This review summarises the whole experience perfectly as “…absolutely worth it! The WOW Museum in Munich exceeded our expectations! We were there on a gray day with the whole family, grandpa/grandma and children aged between 5 and 15 and there was actually something for everyone – innovative, creative and above all incredibly fun. I would particularly like to highlight the great customer service: The team was super friendly, helpful and guided us through the interactive stations with a lot of patience. You can tell that people put their heart and soul into the work here.”
3. House of Banksy Pop-Up Exhibition
Image source: House of Banksy
The House of Banksy is an intriguing exploration of the works of the renowned street artist and activist known as Banksy, evidenced by its 4.4 star Google rating. The exhibit includes a wide collection of original artworks, graffiti, and rare memorabilia from the elusive artist.
The unauthorised pop-up exhibit, House of Banksy, has been extended in Munich for the final time and will now run until April 27, 2025. Since its debut in March 2021, the exhibit has traveled across the globe and captured the hearts of more than 2.5 million people in 24 cities across seven countries.
The exhibit has been praised for its engaging presentation and thought-provoking nature, with one review on Google calling it, “A unique opportunity to get to know the full bandwidth of work of this provocative artist. All the issues are still relevant and his approach is refreshing and original,” reflecting the admiration many find in the exhibit’s immersive approach. Another reviewer stated, “This exhibition is incredibly good and you should definitely see it when you are in Munich. Very varied and informative and for all age groups.”
The House of Banksy combines unique visuals with interactive elements, allowing you to connect with Banksy’s themes of resistance and societal critique. The exhibit not only celebrates the artist’s groundbreaking work but also kicks off a dialogue about the relevance of street art in contemporary culture. As the exhibit nears its final days, this unforgettable experience that bridges the gap between street art and traditional gallery exhibitions is one you shouldn’t miss.
4. BMW Welt
The BMW Welt, a striking architectural landmark in Munich, offers an immersive experience into one of the most popular brands in the automobile world. The showroom is a fascinating space where the past, present, and future of BMW coalesce in an exhibit that’s sure to take your breath away. While you’re there, you can explore the latest models, from sleek sports cars to modern electric vehicles. Thanks to the interactive exhibits that explain the technology and design philosophy behind these vehicles, you’ll have an entertaining and educational experience.
Beyond the cars themselves, the BMW Welt hosts lots of fun, unique events. For example, the Valentine’s Day kiss cams, or more active pursuits like pop-up yoga sessions. One of the highlights of the exhibit is the racing simulator which lets you experience the thrill and adrenaline-pumping fun of the track.
With nearly 34,000 Google reviews averaging almost 5 stars, it’s clear that the BMW Welt is one of the most well-loved exhibits in Munich, even by non-car enthusiasts. One reviewer commented “Even though none of us were car fanatics, we were still very impressed and amazed by what the museum had to show,” while another highlighted the “Fantastic exhibition of BMW for free with an U-Bahn station right outside. A great little addition to the main museum but I would certainly recommend doing both and not just one!” This experience provides a great prelude to a visit to the adjacent BMW Museum, where the brand’s history is further explored.
5. The BMW Museum
Image source: BMW Museum
The BMW Museum in Munich is a fantastic journey through the history of the famous German automotive brand. Housed in a building that’s an architectural wonder on its own, the museum holds a wide range of vehicles, from early models that put the brand on the map to sleeker modern designs. In addition to the automobile displays, the museum highlights the company’s broader history, including its involvement in motorsports, contributions to aviation engine development, and its impact on culture.
While you’re there you can explore classic cars, motorcycles, and concept vehicles through interactive displays and multimedia presentations. The BMW museum has nearly 40,000 Google reviews averaging a 4.6-star rating, clearly marking it as a popular attraction. One five-star review praises the well-curated collection, writing, “As a car lover I’ve now visited this, Mercedes and Porsche and none have disappointed. A great history of the brand showing their beginnings and history with plane engines, bikes and boats outside of just the cars.” Another review highlights the organisational structure of the exhibits and offers a practical tip, writing, “Very interesting and well organised museum (especially if you’re a fan of the brand). A lot of history and details about the production of cars. You can buy tickets online in advance as it’s way faster to enter on a busy day.”
6. The Toy Museum
Image source: Toy Museum
Located in the heart of Munich on Marienplatz, the Toy Museum offers a nostalgic journey through the world of play. Displaying toys from various eras, the museum gives a glimpse into childhood entertainment through the ages. From classic dolls and teddy bears to wooden and tin toys, and robots too, the exhibits bring back memories and spark curiosity in both the young and old.
The museum’s collection consists of diverse materials and styles, reflecting changing social trends and technological advancements. From March 3, 2025, the Toy Museum adds a special exhibition, “66 years of Barbie – from toy to cult object,” celebrating the beloved doll’s impact on popular culture.
With a 4.4-star rating from around 1,500 Google reviews, the museum clearly resonates with visitors. One five-star review highlights the charming and well-curated collection, commenting, “The museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully curated, providing a nostalgic and educational experience. From traditional dolls and teddy bears to intricately crafted tin toys and model trains, there is something to captivate visitors of all ages,” while another praises the nostalgic atmosphere, calling it “an amazing place bringing you back to childhood.”
7. Studio of Wonders
Image source: Studio of Wonders
Prepare to be amazed at the Studio of Wonders – a unique and immersive experience, blending art, illusion, and interactive installations. Known as the biggest immersive photo playground, the studio has over 20 interactive photo sets, creatively designed for capturing beautiful photos and videos.
Plus, there’s plenty more to enjoy at the studio. You’ll see stunning optical illusions, experience mind-bending perspectives like the Upside Down, and even have fun in the colourful ball pit as you let your inner child out to play.
Some of the other notable exhibits within the Studio of Wonders include the Endless Dancefloor, Magic Jellyfish, Wonder Cafe, Pink Splash, and the Enlightened Table Tennis. Overall, it’s a place where you not only see the art, you become a part of it.
The Studio of Wonders has a 4.7-star rating from hundreds of Google reviews, reflecting its popularity among exhibits in Munich. One five-star review gives tips for enjoying the installation and describes it as “A quite wonderful place! Nice staff that provide you with useful information on how to get the best shots or even to take the shot for you. Best enjoyed with a wide angle lens and a smartphone or a good camera that is capable of long time exposure.”
Another review highlights the creative and Instagrammable sets with tips for taking the best photos, writing, “There are lots of nice backdrops set up, and there is a small information sign at each station that gives helpful tips for motifs and how-to-picture! Get some shooting inspiration from their Instagram page beforehand and remember to have enough storage space on your smartphone.”
8. Kunsthalle München
Image source: Kunsthalle München
The Kunsthalle München is a renowned art museum hosting three large exhibitions every year that explore a variety of themes. These themes normally range from painting to sculpture, crafts, graphic arts, photography, design, and fashion.
Thanks to the museum’s focus on temporary shows, there’s a constantly evolving programme there, making each exhibition a unique experience. The programme typically alternates between monographic exhibitions and thematic projects to cater to more tastes. With a 4.6-star rating from over 3,000 Google reviews, the Kunsthalle is highly regarded among exhibits in Munich. One five-star review summarises the museum: “They have very good exhibitions and the information provided is very well edited, as to provide interesting and relevant facts without being tedious or repetitive.”
Another review highlights the museum’s unique exhibition style, commenting that it’s “A top-tier art exhibition house located in Munich city centre. Instead of a permanent exhibition, it hosts alternating exhibitions from different art and design fields.”
9. Museum of Hunting and Fishing
Image source: High Contrast, CC BY 3.0 DE
If you’re fascinated by the bizarre, the Museum of Hunting and Fishing is just the place to go. The hunting museum, housed in the former Augustinerkloster church, holds a collection of mythical creatures that are a hybrid of bird and rabbit. Starting from a collection of elk heads in place of the church’s stations of the cross, the museum’s collection has steadily continued to grow and now presents a rather peculiar and sometimes unsettling look into history from a Bavarian folklore perspective.
With a 4.4-star rating from around 1,000 Google reviews, it’s clear that the museum sparks curiosity in many. One five-star review describes it as a “Beautiful museum, good for kids and adults. It doesn’t expose cruelty, but cultivates respect to nature.”
Another review notes, “This museum is a must see for any outdoor or hunting enthusiast…and it was so cool to see the history of hunting and fishing in Germany and to see the different methods of hunting through the ages. There are lots of cool displays, well worth the visit. Also it was very affordable!”
10. Orlando di Lasso Statue Michael Jackson Tribute
Image source: Chabe01, CC BY-SA 4.0
Originally erected in honour of the Franco-Flemish composer Orlando di Lasso, the statue took on a new identity for some in 2009, becoming an unofficial tribute to Michael Jackson following his passing. What began as a spontaneous act of remembrance to the King of Pop has since evolved into a continually growing shrine, adorned with candles, flowers, photographs, and heartfelt memorabilia left by devoted fans.
More than just a tribute, the site has become a gathering place for Jackson’s admirers, reflecting the lasting power of his music and legacy. Adding to its poignant significance, just days before his passing in 2024, Tito Jackson visited the shrine alongside his brothers Jackie and Marlon, sharing an emotional Instagram post about the experience.
Despite its 4.2-star rating from hundreds of Google reviews, the memorial is not without controversy. Disputes between fans and detractors have been known to escalate, with some incidents having required local authorities to intervene. While undeniably a powerful tribute, visitors should be mindful of the shrine’s complex and occasionally contentious atmosphere.
One five-star review perfectly describes the site, writing, “The Orlando di Lasso Statue and Michael Jackson Memorial uniquely unite two musical icons. The statue honors Renaissance composer Orlando di Lasso, while the memorial celebrates the pop culture greatness of Michael Jackson. A fascinating place that celebrates the history of music in different ways.”
Another reviewer describes it as a unique and moving experience, writing that it’s a “Beautiful tribute to the best artist the planet has ever given.”
Exhibits in Munich: Final Word
Munich is a city that truly shines as a cultural hub, celebrating art, history, and innovation through an incredible array of exhibitions. The beauty of these showcases lies in their diversity – whether you’re passionate about classical masterpieces, cutting-edge technology, or thought-provoking contemporary art, there’s always something new to discover.
Among the many exhibits in Munich, each one offers a unique perspective, stimulating the senses, challenging perceptions, and encouraging you to see the world in a different way. Even the variety of venues – from grand museums to intimate galleries – ensures there’s an experience to match every preference and mood.
If you’re ever in Munich and looking for something inspiring without the need for extensive planning, these exhibits are an ideal choice. More than just displays, they offer a transformative journey into the interconnectedness of art, culture, and society – one of the many reasons Munich is cherished by visitors and locals alike.
Featured image source: The Magic Bavaria
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