Marienplatz
Marienplatz
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The square has been the city's main market since the 12th century. The New Town Hall's Glockenspiel re-enacts a 16th-century wedding and the Schäffler dance; the tower lift gives a view over the old town. The Frauenkirche's twin onion domes are a short walk away, and the Viktualienmarkt food market is behind the square. U3/U6 and all S-Bahn lines stop at Marienplatz. The Christmas market fills the square in December.
Ticket Price
Free to visit; the square is public and open 24 hours. The Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall is free to watch.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours; the square is public.
Transportation
U3/U6 and S-Bahn lines S1-S8 to Marienplatz station; trams 19 and 21 stop nearby.
Best Season
In Germany, visit Marienplatz in May-Sep; Jul-Aug is peak and Dec-Feb is cold.
Pro Tip: Time your visit for the glockenspiel
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Time your visit for the glockenspiel The carillon plays at set times in the New Town Hall. Arrive a few minutes early for a spot, then explore the market stalls and nearby churches.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions3 questions
The New Town Hall Glockenspiel has 43 bells and 32 life-size figures re-enacting a 1568 knight tournament and the coopers' dance. It plays at 11:00 and 12:00, plus 17:00 in summer, for about 12-15 minutes.
Yes, the Alter Peter viewing tower is open to visitors and gives the best view over Marienplatz and the rooftops. It is a tight climb with narrow stairs, so avoid peak midday.
The Christkindlmarkt runs from late November to 24 December, with stalls across the square and a large tree. Evenings and weekends are the busiest.