Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a city that beautifully blends the old with the new. With its rich history, architectural marvels, and vibrant arts scene, it has served as an inspiring backdrop for many famous films, TV series, and books, earning itself a spot on the map of cinematic travel destinations. This guide will take you on a grand tour of the locations where famous films shot in Munich, along with TV shows, animated films, and novels, have come to life. Get ready to embark on an adventure through Munich’s cinematic history!
Munich on the Silver Screen
Munich’s distinctive cityscape and historic landmarks have caught the eye of filmmakers from around the world, resulting in many famous films shot there. One of the most notable examples is Steven Spielberg’s ‘Munich’ (2005), a political thriller set against the backdrop of the 1972 Munich Olympics. The film showcases many parts of the city, including the Olympic Stadium and the Dachau Concentration Camp.
Another film that brought Munich to the global screen is ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’ (1971). While primarily filmed in the city’s Bavaria Studios, the film’s iconic opening sequence was shot in Munich’s charming old town.
Other films shot in Munich include ‘The Great Escape’ (1963), ‘Cabaret’ (1972), and ‘Valkyrie’ (2008), among others. Each of these films has played a role in enhancing Munich’s cinematic appeal.
Here are some of the most memorable films shot in Munich:
- “Munich” (2005) – Directed by Steven Spielberg.
- “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (1971) – Directed by Mel Stuart.
- “The Great Escape” (1963) – Directed by John Sturges.
- “Cabaret” (1972) – Directed by Bob Fosse.
- “Valkyrie” (2008) – Directed by Bryan Singer.
Munich Through the Television Lens
Apart from films, Munich has also made its mark in some well-loved TV shows. The city’s diverse landscapes and architectural grandeur have served as a backdrop for a variety of TV genres, from thrilling crime dramas to heartwarming family series.
A famous example of a TV show set in Munich is ‘Inspector Rex’, an Austrian police procedural drama. While the series primarily takes place in Vienna, several episodes were filmed in Munich, giving viewers a glimpse of the city’s picturesque streets and landmarks.
Another TV series that features Munich is ‘Das Boot’, a German television sequel to the 1981 film of the same name. The show provides a historical perspective of Munich during World War II.
Here are some notable TV shows set in Munich:
- “Inspector Rex” (1996-2004) – Created by Peter Hajek and Peter Moser.
- “Das Boot” (2018-present) – Developed by Tony Saint and Johannes W. Betz.
Animated Munich
Munich’s enchanting cityscape has also served as a source of inspiration for animated films. A prime example is ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ (1959) by Walt Disney, where Neuschwanstein Castle, located near Munich, is said to have inspired the design of the fairy tale castle in the movie.
The stop-motion film ‘Lilli the Witch’ (2011), based on a popular German children’s book series, is another animated film set in Munich. The city’s popular landmarks, such as the Marienplatz and the Frauenkirche, feature prominently in the film.
Here are some animated films inspired by Munich:
- “The Sleeping Beauty” (1959) – Directed by Clyde Geronimi.
- “Lilli the Witch” (2011) – Directed by Stefan Ruzowitzky.
Munich in Literature: From Classic to Contemporary
Munich’s rich cultural and historical fabric has woven itself into the pages of many famous books. From historical fiction to contemporary thrillers, authors have captured the essence of the city in their narratives. Here are some famous books set in Munich, both classic and contemporary:
Classic Novels
- “Dr. Faustus” by Thomas Mann – This classic novel delves into the life of a composer living in Munich during the early 20th century.
- “The Magic Mountain” by Thomas Mann – Though primarily set in a sanatorium in the Swiss Alps, several parts of the novel take place in Munich.
- “The Hangman’s Daughter” by Oliver Pí¶tzsch – This historical novel, set in 17th century Munich, is a gripping tale of witchcraft, murder, and intrigue.
Contemporary Novels
- “Munich” by Robert Harris – A thrilling novel set during the Munich Agreement of 1938.
- “The Ludwig Conspiracy” by Oliver Pí¶tzsch – A contemporary novel that weaves a tale of mystery and intrigue around King Ludwig II’s mysterious death.
- “Zoo Station” by David Downing – The first in a series of spy novels set in Munich during World War II.
Exploring Munich’s Filming Locations: Where to Go
Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a curious traveller, exploring Munich’s filming locations offers a unique perspective of the city. Here’s a list of key locations to visit:
- Marienplatz – Featured in ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’, this central square is a must-visit. Don’t miss the New Town Hall and its famous Glockenspiel.
- Olympic Stadium – Featured in ‘Munich’, this iconic stadium is a testament to Munich’s modern architecture.
- Bavaria Film Studios – Take a tour of one of Europe’s biggest film studios, where movies like ‘Das Boot’ and ‘The NeverEnding Story’ were shot.
- Nymphenburg Palace – Featured in several period dramas, this Baroque palace is a visual treat.
- Neuschwanstein Castle – Visit the castle that inspired Disney’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’ and marvel at its fairy-tale beauty.
Where to Sleep in Munich: From Budget to Luxury
Munich offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some suggestions for where to sleep in Munich:
Budget Accommodation
- Wombat’s City Hostel – Located in the city centre, it’s perfect for backpackers.
- Jugendherberge München Park – A youth hostel that offers clean and affordable rooms.
- Hotel St. George – A budget hotel located near the city centre.
Luxury Accommodation
- Bayerischer Hof – A five-star hotel that offers luxurious rooms and exceptional service.
- Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München – Located near the Marienplatz, it’s known for its elegance and comfort.
- Sofitel Munich Bayerpost – A luxury hotel located in a historic building, offering a blend of tradition and modernity.
Where to Eat in Munich: From Budget to Luxury
Munich’s culinary scene has something to offer for every palate and budget. Here are some suggestions for where to eat in Munich:
Budget Eateries
- Viktualienmarkt – A daily food market in the city centre where you can sample a variety of local delicacies.
- Hofbrí¤uhaus – A historic beer hall offering traditional Bavarian cuisine.
- Augustiner-Keller – Another traditional beer garden, known for its delicious food and lively atmosphere.
Luxury Restaurants
- Tantris – A Michelin two-star restaurant known for its innovative cuisine.
- Atelier – Another Michelin three-star restaurant located in the Bayerischer Hof hotel.
- Schwarzreiter Tagesbar & Restaurant – Known for its contemporary Bavarian cuisine, it’s a must-visit for foodies.
Detailed Itinerary: A Cinematic Journey Through Munich
To make the most of your cinematic journey through Munich, follow this detailed three-day itinerary:
Day 1: Explore Munich’s Historic Centre
Start your day at the Marienplatz, featured in ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’. From there, head to the Viktualienmarkt for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Hofbrí¤uhaus, featured in several films and TV shows. End your day with a visit to the Nymphenburg Palace, a popular filming location for period dramas.
Day 2: Discover Munich’s Modern Side
Begin your day at the Olympic Stadium, featured in ‘Munich’. After lunch, head to the BMW Museum, which has been featured in several car chase scenes. End your day with a visit to the Allianz Arena, featured in ‘Goal II: Living the Dream’.
Day 3: Venture Beyond Munich’s City Centre
Start your day with a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’. After lunch, head to the Bavaria Film Studios for a guided tour. End your day with a visit to Dachau Concentration Camp, featured in ‘Munich’.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Munich is a city steeped in history and folklore, with intriguing legends and curious tales at every corner. One such legend is the ‘Münchner Kindl’, or Munich Child, the city’s mascot. According to folklore, the monk-like figure on Munich’s coat of arms is said to protect the city and its residents.
Another curiosity is the ‘Teufelstritt’, or Devil’s Footstep, in the Frauenkirche. According to legend, the devil made a deal with the builder of the church, leaving his footprint as a sign of their pact.
Munich’s film industry has its fair share of legends too. One of the most famous is the ‘Bavaria Filmstadt’, home to the original submarine used in ‘Das Boot’. Today, the studio offers guided tours where visitors can explore this and other film sets.
Hidden Gems in Munich
Beyond the well-trodden paths, Munich is home to several hidden gems that are worth exploring. These lesser-known filming locations offer a unique glimpse into Munich’s cinematic history:
- Hirschgarten – Featured in several local films, this is the world’s largest beer garden.
- The Eisbach Wave – A popular filming location for surfing documentaries, this man-made wave in the Eisbach river attracts surfers from around the world.
- Asam Church – This small, intricately decorated church in the city centre has been featured in several period dramas.
What to Pack for a Trip to Munich
When packing for your cinematic journey to Munich, consider the city’s weather and the activities you plan to do. Munich’s weather varies greatly throughout the year, so pack accordingly. For the winter months, pack warm clothing and comfortable shoes. For the summer, pack light clothing and a hat to protect against the sun. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture your cinematic adventure!
How to Dress in Munich
When it comes to dressing in Munich, comfort and practicality are key. Munich locals dress relatively casually, but they also tend to look neat and put together. Jeans are perfectly acceptable, and layers are recommended due to the city’s changeable weather.
Transportation Tips in Munich
Munich’s public transportation system is excellent and includes the U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses. For a more scenic route, consider renting a bike or walking. If you prefer driving, car rental services are available, but be mindful of the city’s traffic and parking rules.
Travel Documents Needed
Before travelling to Munich, ensure you have the necessary travel documents. If you’re from outside the EU, you may need a visa to enter Germany. Always carry your passport for identification. If you plan to drive, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English.
In conclusion, Munich is a city that’s rich in cinematic history, offering a unique travel experience for film lovers. From its iconic filming locations to its intriguing legends and hidden gems, Munich is a city that deserves to be explored. So grab your passport, pack your bags, and embark on a cinematic journey through Munich!
