St. Peter's Church Alter Peter
Munich's oldest church, offering a challenging tower climb for spectacular city views and a richly decorated interior.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
St. Peter's Church Alter Peter
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Munich's oldest church, offering a challenging tower climb for spectacular city views and a richly decorated interior.
"The view from the top is worth the climb, offering a fantastic way to get your bearings in Munich."
👟 Conquer the Steps
Wear comfortable shoes for the 306-step tower climb. It's a workout but worth it! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Tower Ticket Info
Tickets for the tower are usually walk-up only. Arrive early to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tower View
St. Peter's Church Tower
Ascend 306 steps for unparalleled panoramic views of Munich's rooftops and beyond.

Ornate Interior
Church Nave
Marvel at the stunning architecture, intricate details, and vibrant pink and gold accents.

Historic Significance
Church Exterior & Interior
Explore Munich's oldest parish church, a testament to Romanesque and Gothic architectural evolution.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb for the Views
Free Entry, Tower Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Conquer the Steps
Wear comfortable shoes for the 306-step tower climb. It's a workout but worth it!
:athletic_shoe:💰 Tower Ticket Info
Tickets for the tower are usually walk-up only. Arrive early to avoid disappointment.
:ticket:📸 Panoramic Photo Ops
The tower offers incredible photo opportunities of Marienplatz and the city.
:camerawithflash:🙏 Respectful Visit
Remember it's a holy place. Be mindful of services and maintain a respectful demeanor.
:pray:Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Conquer the Steps
Wear comfortable shoes for the 306-step tower climb. It's a workout but worth it!
:athletic_shoe:💰 Tower Ticket Info
Tickets for the tower are usually walk-up only. Arrive early to avoid disappointment.
:ticket:📸 Panoramic Photo Ops
The tower offers incredible photo opportunities of Marienplatz and the city.
:camerawithflash:🙏 Respectful Visit
Remember it's a holy place. Be mindful of services and maintain a respectful demeanor.
:pray:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Peter's Church Alter Peter for its stunning architecture and the rewarding panoramic views from its tower. The free entry to the church is a significant plus, though the tower climb involves a fee and a challenging ascent. Many find the interior's ornate decorations and historical significance captivating, making it a must-visit in Munich.
"St Peter is an impressive Catholic church in the center of Old Town. The building is usually open daily to tourists. They also have an observation deck at the top of the bell tower. The church is free to enter, and tower admission was only €5 when I visited. Tower tickets can be purchased at the base of the tower as walk-up only (no reservations accepted unless you want a night tour).
Keep in mind there are 306 steps to the top of the tower, but the view is worth the climb. On your way up, you can see the massive bells. At the top, you get wonderful views of Marienplatz and all of Old Town. The church nave itself features ornate decoration with accents of pink and gold on white, making it a peaceful space of reflection. I highly recommend this for anyone interested in architecture, history, or great city views."
Mike M.
"Stunning church in Munich. It is free to enter but costs to climb the tower. St. Peter is the oldest parish church in Munich. It dates back to the 8th to 12th century. It was originally built as a Romanesque church and later rebuilt in Gothic style. The architecture is just stunning as well as all the decoration inside the church. The high altar and sculptures are beautiful. The church has eight bells and four of them pre-date 1400. This is a must visit in Munich! We loved our visit."
Michael Mack
"Munich is a masterpiece of authentic architecture.
Once you step into the downtown area, all you need to do is walk—every corner unveils a different era, a unique style, a story carved in stone. Wander freely, let the city guide you. Step into charming old buildings, grand halls, and cozy hidden gems. And whatever you do, don’t miss St. Peter’s Church. It’s a striking symbol of German craftsmanship, where towering statues and intricate details leave a lasting impression."
Sam I
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Peter's Church, also known as Alter Peter, is centrally located in Munich's Old Town, right next to Marienplatz. You can easily reach it by public transport (U-Bahn or S-Bahn to Marienplatz station) or by walking if you're already in the city center.
Yes, absolutely! The closest public transport hub is Marienplatz, which is served by multiple U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (urban rail) lines. From Marienplatz, it's just a short walk to the church.
From Marienplatz, simply head towards the Old Town Hall and then look for the prominent tower of St. Peter's Church. It's hard to miss and a central landmark.
Parking in the immediate vicinity of Alter Peter can be challenging due to its central location. It's highly recommended to use public transport. If you must drive, consider parking garages around Marienplatz.
Many walking tours of Munich's Old Town include a stop at St. Peter's Church, highlighting its historical significance and offering insights into its architecture.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry into the main body of St. Peter's Church is free of charge. However, there is a fee to climb the tower for panoramic city views.
The admission fee for the tower climb is typically around €5, but it's always a good idea to check the latest prices upon arrival.
Tickets for the tower climb are generally sold on a walk-up basis only. Advance reservations are not typically accepted for individual visitors, unless for special night tours.
The church is usually open daily for visitors. The tower has specific opening hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
As a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress respectfully. Loud behavior or disruptive activities, like dancing, are not permitted.
📸 📸 Photography
The absolute best photo spot is from the top of the tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Munich. The church's interior also provides stunning architectural and decorative photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside the church, but it's important to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid using flash if it might disturb others.
A wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive city views from the tower. A camera with good low-light performance can be beneficial if you visit during dimmer conditions.
Yes, you can often see and photograph the massive bells as you ascend the tower. They are an impressive part of the church's history and structure.
Mornings often offer fewer crowds and softer light. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting on the city.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The climb itself, with 306 steps, can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes depending on your pace and how often you stop to catch your breath or admire the views on the way up.
The tower climb involves many narrow, steep steps and may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues, claustrophobia, or very young children.
From the top, you'll get a spectacular 360-degree view of Munich, including Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche, and on clear days, even the Bavarian Alps.
Restrooms are typically available within the church premises. It's advisable to use them before or after your tower climb.
The jeweled skeleton of St. Mundita is a relic housed within St. Peter's Church, adding to its historical and religious significance. It's a unique and striking display.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tower Climb: A Munich Rite of Passage
As you ascend, you'll pass by the church's massive bells, a fascinating glimpse into the mechanics of the tower. The experience is often described as both exhilarating and a bit of a workout, making comfortable footwear a must. While not for the faint of heart or those with mobility issues, the tower climb is a highly recommended activity for anyone seeking an unforgettable perspective of Munich.
Architectural Marvels and Sacred Spaces
The church also houses unique relics, such as the jeweled skeleton of St. Mundita, adding another layer of historical and religious intrigue. The sheer scale of the church, with its eight bells, some predating the 15th century, further emphasizes its enduring legacy. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of quiet reflection, the interior of St. Peter's Church offers a profound and visually stunning experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit