Maximilianeum
Home to the Bavarian State Parliament, this Neo-Renaissance gem offers stunning architecture and Isar River views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for tours
Maximilianeum
Best Time
Fewer crowds for tours

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the Bavarian State Parliament, this Neo-Renaissance gem offers stunning architecture and Isar River views.
"An architectural gem truly worth seeing, offering breathtaking views."
🎯 Book Tours Ahead
Interior access is by guided tour only. Book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment!
📸 Riverside Photo Spot
The Isar riverbanks offer the best angles for stunning exterior photos of the Maximilianeum.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Neo-Renaissance Facade
Admire the majestic exterior, a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture with ornate details and grand arches.

Isar River Views
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Isar River and the city from the building's elevated position.

Bavarian State Parliament
Discover the seat of Bavarian politics and history, with guided tours offering insights into its function.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Guided Tours in Advance
Best Views & Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Ahead
Interior access is by guided tour only. Book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment!
📸 Riverside Photo Spot
The Isar riverbanks offer the best angles for stunning exterior photos of the Maximilianeum.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Wander through the surrounding park for lovely views and a peaceful atmosphere.
🏛️ Check for Events
Special events and public viewings sometimes offer unique access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Ahead
Interior access is by guided tour only. Book your spot in advance to avoid disappointment!
📸 Riverside Photo Spot
The Isar riverbanks offer the best angles for stunning exterior photos of the Maximilianeum.
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Wander through the surrounding park for lovely views and a peaceful atmosphere.
🏛️ Check for Events
Special events and public viewings sometimes offer unique access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Maximilianeum's stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture and its picturesque location overlooking the Isar River, offering breathtaking city views. While interior access is limited to guided tours, the exterior and surrounding gardens provide a grand experience. Some visitors have noted scaffolding during renovations, which can detract from the view.
"A wonderful spot overlooking the Isar River, where swimmers enjoy warm summer days and find comfort in refreshing waters. The atmosphere is relaxing and full of life. Towering above the city is the impressive Maximilianeum building – an architectural gem truly worth seeing, offering breathtaking views."
Admir Dzinic
"⭐ Maximilianeum, Munich
A neo-Renaissance masterpiece on the Isar River, this iconic building houses the Bavarian State Parliament and impresses with its grand façade, ornate arches, mosaics, and sculptures. Originally commissioned by King Maximilian II in 1852 for gifted students, it combines history, culture, and politics in one striking location. Stroll along the riverside gardens, admire the panoramic views, or snap photos of its stately architecture. While interiors are mostly official, public events and guided tours reveal Bavaria’s rich heritage. A must-see for history buffs, architecture lovers, and culture seekers! #Munich #Maximilianeum #NeoRenaissance #BavarianHistory #CulturalGem"
Amin Ziaee
"Impressive building. Rich architecture."
Florin Dos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maximilianeum is easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams like line 16 towards St. Emmeram, which stops nearby.
Alternatively, several bus lines also serve the area. It's a pleasant walk from the city center, especially along the Isar River.Parking directly at the Maximilianeum is limited. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a city center garage and walk or take a tram.
Yes, it's a scenic walk of about 30-40 minutes from Marienplatz, largely following the Isar River. It's a great way to see more of Munich.
Tram line 16 is a popular choice, with a stop conveniently located near the building.
While the exterior and gardens are generally accessible, interior tours might have limitations. It's best to contact the Bavarian State Parliament directly for specific accessibility information regarding guided tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds and exterior viewing is free. However, to see the interior, you must book a guided tour in advance.
Guided tours of the Maximilianeum are typically free of charge, but booking is essential. Check the official Bavarian State Parliament website for the most current information and booking procedures.
You can book guided tours through the official website of the Bavarian State Parliament. Slots can fill up quickly, so booking well in advance is highly recommended.
Tour times vary and are subject to parliamentary schedules. It's crucial to check the official website for available tour dates and times when planning your visit.
You can admire the impressive exterior and explore the surrounding park and riverbanks without a tour. However, interior access is restricted to guided tours.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Guided tours offer a look into the plenary hall, committee rooms, and historical chambers, showcasing Bavarian design and political history.
Absolutely! The Isar riverbanks provide stunning perspectives of the facade. The surrounding gardens also offer beautiful framing for photos.
Yes, the Maximilianeum is surrounded by lovely gardens and terraces that offer great views and a peaceful place to relax.
The Maximilianeum is a prime example of Neo-Renaissance architecture, commissioned by King Maximilian II.
Public access to parliamentary sessions may be possible depending on the schedule and availability. Check the Bavarian State Parliament's official website for information on attending sessions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Maximilianeum itself is primarily a government building and does not have public dining facilities. However, the nearby Maximilianstrasse offers a range of upscale restaurants and cafes.
The Maximilianstrasse, a grand boulevard leading to the Maximilianeum, is lined with excellent dining options, from traditional Bavarian to international cuisine.
The park areas and Isar riverbanks surrounding the Maximilianeum are perfect spots for a picnic, especially on a nice day.
Yes, you'll find several cafes along Maximilianstrasse and in the surrounding areas offering coffee and pastries.
Some venues near the Maximilianeum, like those on Maximilianstrasse, offer fine dining experiences. Funk Catering has also been associated with events at the Maximilianeum.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots are often taken from across the Isar River, capturing the building's grandeur. The riverside gardens also offer beautiful perspectives.
Photography rules inside the Maximilianeum during guided tours can vary. It's best to ask your guide at the beginning of the tour.
Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' provides beautiful lighting on the Neo-Renaissance facade. Early mornings can also be less crowded for exterior shots.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around government buildings. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Yes, the elevated position of the Maximilianeum offers excellent vantage points for photographing the Isar River and the cityscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more interactive experience, look for family-friendly events that might occasionally be held at or near the Maximilianeum. The Familienpass München (Munich Family Pass) might offer insights into special activities or tours that cater to families.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Take time to study the facade's ornamentation and understand its symbolism. The building's original purpose as a dormitory for gifted students, later transformed into the seat of parliament, offers a rich narrative. The surrounding area, including the Maximilianstrasse, also boasts impressive historical buildings that complement the Maximilianeum's grandeur.
📸 Photographers
While interior photography during tours might be restricted, always inquire with your guide. The grandeur of the exterior provides ample material for architectural photography, capturing the intricate details and the building's imposing presence. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and have more freedom to set up your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Bavarian Politics and History
While the interiors are primarily functional for parliamentary activities, guided tours offer a unique opportunity to step inside and learn about the building's history and significance. These tours often reveal the ornate halls, chambers, and artwork that adorn the interior, providing a deeper understanding of Bavaria's cultural and political evolution. Experiencing the Maximilianeum through a tour offers a tangible connection to the region's past and present.
Beyond its political function, the Maximilianeum is a landmark that draws visitors for its aesthetic appeal and its strategic location overlooking the Isar River. The surrounding riverside gardens and terraces are popular spots for locals and tourists alike, offering serene views and a pleasant escape. It’s a place where history, culture, and the daily life of Munich converge, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the city's multifaceted identity.
Experiencing the Maximilianeum: Beyond the Facade
While interior access is limited to guided tours, these are highly recommended for those who want a deeper understanding of the building's purpose and history. Tours often cover the plenary hall and other significant chambers, offering insights into Bavarian politics and the building's architectural details. It's advisable to book these tours well in advance, as they are popular and have limited capacity. Some social media content even hints at unique events held within the Maximilianeum, such as card tournaments, suggesting that occasional special access might be available.
Even without an interior tour, the surrounding park and gardens offer a delightful experience. These green spaces provide a tranquil setting to admire the architecture from different angles and enjoy the scenic views of the river and the city. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a relaxing picnic, allowing visitors to soak in the atmosphere of this significant Munich landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit