Munich presents itself as a metropolis of sustainability, inviting visitors to explore the city with a new perspective. Here are six ideas to experience the Bavarian capital in a sustainable way.
Have you ever noticed that Munich is a wonderful place to explore and experience on foot? From the historic Marienplatz to the bustling Viktualienmarkt and Odeonsplatz to the hip Glockenbachviertel , you can stroll around to your heart’s content without using public transport. And if your legs do get tired, you can hop on an e-scooter, e-bike or one of the iconic rickshaws! And did you know that Munich has one of the largest inner-city parks in the world, the picturesque English Garden ? But that’s not all.
For Fair Fashionistas
Munich offers not only luxury brands but also lively secondhand shops, eco-friendly labels, and independent boutiques. For example, the Khala fashion collective is known for vibrant jackets and feel-good fashion created in collaboration with seamstresses from Malawi.
Munich-based skincare label NKM also follows a sustainable approach. Using local and regional ingredients, the brand develops sustainable skincare for all skin types. The high-quality reusable bottles can be returned to the store and are thus returned directly to the cycle.
A Munich Green Fashion Tour takes participants to such sustainable stores. Alternatively, interested individuals can save the route online: Green Fashion Tours.
For Smart City Explorers
The Schlachthofviertel in the Isarvorstadt district has become a popular spot for students and hipsters. The Viertelliebe Tour shows where sustainability is already thriving, from regional products in the market hall to local meat specialties at Magnus Bauch’s butcher shop. In Werksviertel-Mitte, children can learn more about the Bavarian ecosystem, sustainable animal husbandry, and healthy nutrition at the Almschule.
For Cool Culture Fans
The Fat Cat, located in the premises of the Gasteig cultural center, offers performance installations and exhibitions. The former rooms of the Gasteig cultural center are brought back to life with unusual performance installations, open studios and changing exhibitions. Its stylish green rooftop garden, which provides a Berlin vibe in the middle of Munich, is perfect for a break. A real insider tip! The Tollwood Festival, a Munich classic for 35 years, brings culinary diversity and artisanal crafts to Theresienwiese.
For Curious Nature Lovers
Sure, it’s easy to get to the countryside or even the mountains from Munich. But the city is also very green! If you already know the English Garden, explore the Botanical Garden. Numerous species of birds and insects live here, enjoying the diverse flora to the full. Rare plants can be found right next door in the idyllic Nymphenburg Palace Park. In addition to the beautiful gardens, the palace itself is always worth a visit!
A visit to the Grünwald forest adventure center on the outskirts of the city is particularly worthwhile for little explorers! Children can playfully discover Bavaria’s biodiversity here by exploring the biotopes, saying hello to the wild boars or hiking along the various adventure trails . The visitor center features a variety of exhibitions that shed light on exciting natural phenomena! A perfect break from the big city!
For Wild Vegetarians
Munich-based start-up Greenforce produces vegan white sausages which are even available at Oktoberfest. Bodhi interprets classic Bavarian dishes in a vegan way, while Soy Vegan serves Vietnamese Buddhist cuisine with fresh, vegan ingredients.
For a Sustainable Night’s Rest
Many Munich hotels focus on sustainability in their concept, including the Augustin directly on the world-famous Theresienwiese. The ultra-modern building was constructed entirely from regional wood and draws its energy from its own combined heat and power plant. There is also a wide range of sustainable goodies, from toilet paper to beauty products.
Turning old into new is also the motto at Scandic München Macherei. 100 percent of the energy here is generated from organic waste in the food waste plant! The hotel is also committed to the environment and inclusion with an organic breakfast and barrier-free access.
We recently stayed at the Schwan Locke. The design hotel on Schwantalerhöhe completely won us over with its bright design concept, unique furnishings and in-house Bambule bar. This is how to experience Munich in style. You can read our impressions here.
In the stylish Cocoon Hotels, sustainability goes through the stomach. Only regional and fresh ingredients end up on the plates here, which you can enjoy to your heart’s content. The whole thing is complemented by cool alpine decor such as ski gondolas and cow art!
