Alter Hof, Munich

Courtyard, Historic Building and Historic Site in Munich

Alter Hof
Alter Hof
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Fentriss

Alter Hof (Old Court) is a small but historically weighty courtyard complex in Munich's Old Town, just a short walk from Marienplatz. Once tied to the Wittelsbach rulers and the city's early power center, it's now a calm pocket between busy shopping lanes, with a fountain courtyard feel and layers of architecture that hint at medieval Munich.

It's an easy add-on to an Old Town walking tour: stop here between Marienplatz and the Munich Residenz, then continue toward Odeonsplatz or the Viktualienmarkt. The best way to experience Alter Hof is to treat it as a quick “history pause” on foot, pairing the courtyard atmosphere with the small Munich Imperial Castle exhibition below.

History and Significance of the Alter Hof

Alter Hof is associated with Munich's earliest ducal and imperial-era story, when the city's rulers needed a fortified residence inside the growing medieval town. Over time, the complex evolved into a multi-winged court, and its role shifted as Munich expanded and new residences took over the spotlight.

What makes Alter Hof meaningful today is how it anchors the narrative of Munich before the grand boulevards and baroque façades. Even if you only spend a few minutes in the courtyard, you're standing in one of the places where the city's political life once concentrated.

Much of Munich's historic center was heavily damaged during World War II and later rebuilt, and Alter Hof is part of that broader story of loss and reconstruction. Visiting now is less about a single “wow” monument and more about connecting the dots of Munich's medieval footprint.

Things to See and Do in the Alter Hof

Start in the courtyard itself: it’s a pleasant, photogenic space that feels tucked away from the Old Town crowds, especially earlier in the day. Look for architectural details across the wings and the way the complex opens and closes as you move through it.

The highlight for many travelers is the Munich Imperial Castle (Münchner Kaiserburg) exhibition connected to the site. It's a compact, approachable stop that adds context to what you're seeing above ground, and it works well even if you're not planning a full museum day.

If you're doing a self-guided walk, use Alter Hof as a midpoint: come from Marienplatz, pause here for the courtyard and exhibition, then continue toward the Residenz area. It's also a good “reset stop” if you want a quieter moment before returning to the busier shopping streets.

How to Get to the Alter Hof

Munich Airport (MUC) is the main international gateway; from there, head into central Munich and continue on foot to the Old Town area around Marienplatz. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Munich on Booking.com.

Munich is extremely well connected by rail, and arriving at München Hauptbahnhof (Munich Central Station) makes it easy to transfer to S-Bahn/U-Bahn toward Marienplatz, then walk a few minutes to Alter Hof. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re traveling by car, plan to park in a central garage and finish the last stretch on foot, as the Old Town core is best explored without a vehicle. If you are looking to rent a car in Germany I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Alter Hof

  • Official website: https://museen-in-bayern.de/infopoint
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 10:00–18:00. Sunday: Closed. Closed on public holidays.
  • Best time to visit: Go in the morning for a calmer courtyard and easier photos, or mid-afternoon as a quick break between bigger sights.
  • How long to spend: 10–20 minutes for the courtyard; add another 20–40 minutes if you also visit the Munich Imperial Castle exhibition.
  • Accessibility: Expect an Old Town setting with pedestrian routes; the Infopoint building has lift-assisted access options, but some areas may require staff assistance.
  • Facilities: You'll find information services and a small shop at the Infopoint; cafés and restrooms are easiest to plan around nearby Marienplatz.

Where to Stay Close to the Alter Hof

Base yourself in Munich's Old Town (Altstadt-Lehel) for the easiest walkable access to Alter Hof, Marienplatz, and the Residenz.

Platzl Hotel A classic Old Town choice with Bavarian character and an unbeatable location for early-morning walks before the crowds.

Hotel Torbräu A long-running, well-regarded hotel close to the Isar side of the center, great for combining Old Town sights with riverside strolls.

Cortiina Hotel A stylish boutique option that feels contemporary while keeping you steps from the historic core.

Louis Hotel Ideal if you want market views and food-focused wandering, with Alter Hof just a short walk away.

Mandarin Oriental, Munich A splurge pick for refined service and a prime central base, especially appealing if you value a high-end stay between sightseeing blocks.

Is the Alter Hof Worth Visiting?

Yes, Alter Hof is worth visiting if you like finding the “quiet corners” that make a historic city feel layered and lived-in. It's not a blockbuster attraction, but it adds real texture to an Old Town day, and the free exhibition component makes it an easy, low-commitment stop.

Honest Pivot: If you're short on time and only want Munich's biggest visual hits (like the Residenz interiors or major museums), you can skip Alter Hof and you won't feel like you missed a headline sight. It's best for travelers who enjoy context, courtyards, and small discoveries between the major landmarks.

For Different Travelers

Alter Hof works best as a flexible add-on: you can keep it to a quick courtyard look, or turn it into a short history stop with the exhibition. Because it sits right in the Old Town flow, it's easy to tailor to your pace and interests.

Families with Kids

For families, the courtyard is a handy “reset space” where kids can pause without the intensity of a big museum. It’s also close to plenty of snack options, which helps keep the day moving.

If your kids enjoy stories and visuals more than long text panels, the small exhibition format can be a good fit. Keep expectations light and treat it as a short, curiosity-driven stop.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples will appreciate Alter Hof as a quieter interlude between busy squares and shopping streets. It's a nice place for a quick photo together that feels more intimate than the main Old Town hotspots.

Pair it with a slow walk from Marienplatz toward the Residenz area, then finish with coffee or dessert nearby. The charm here is subtle: atmosphere over spectacle.

Budget Travelers

Alter Hof is a strong budget-friendly stop because it's easy to enjoy without spending much time or money. You can fold it into a free self-guided walking route through the Old Town.

Use it as a “value stop” between bigger paid attractions: get your history fix, take a breather, and keep your budget for one major museum or a special meal.

History Buffs

History lovers will enjoy placing Alter Hof into Munich's medieval timeline and Wittelsbach-era development. Even a short visit helps you visualize how power and fortification shaped the early city.

To deepen the experience, connect Alter Hof with nearby institutions and sites that expand the story, especially the Residenz complex. Think of Alter Hof as the prologue to Munich's later grandeur.

FAQs for Visiting Alter Hof

Getting There

Yes, it’s very close and works perfectly as a short detour on an Old Town walk. Plan on just a few minutes on foot from the square.
Marienplatz is the most convenient hub for S-Bahn and U-Bahn connections. From there, walking is usually faster than any further transit.
Yes, take rapid transit to Marienplatz and finish on foot. It’s a straightforward route even if it’s your first time in Munich.

Tickets & Entry

No ticket is needed to step into the courtyard area. It’s best treated as a public, walk-through historic spot.
Yes, the exhibition connected with the Infopoint is free to enter. That makes it a great add-on even on a tight schedule.
There may be items for purchase in the shop (books, souvenirs, and sometimes tickets for other attractions). Entry itself is the budget-friendly part.

Visiting Experience

For most travelers it’s a quick stop that adds depth to an Old Town day. It’s most rewarding when paired with nearby landmarks.
Focus on the courtyard atmosphere and the surrounding wings, then take a few photos. If time allows, pop into the exhibition for a fast overview.
It can get busier at peak Old Town hours, but it often feels calmer than Marienplatz. Mornings tend to be the most relaxed.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

It’s commonly used as a contextual stop on Old Town history walks because of its medieval associations. If your tour doesn’t include it, it’s easy to add on your own.
Combine Marienplatz, Alter Hof, and the Residenz area in one continuous walk. Add Viktualienmarkt if you want a food break.
Yes, because it frames the story of Munich’s earlier seat of power before the later palace complex. It’s a small time investment for extra context.

Photography

Yes, especially if you like courtyards, architectural angles, and quieter city scenes. The light is often nicest earlier in the day.
Try wide shots that capture the courtyard’s enclosure, then closer details of façades and windows. A quick lap around the courtyard usually reveals the best compositions.
Rules can vary by exhibition area and temporary displays. Check signage on site and be considerate of other visitors.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access is generally manageable in the Old Town setting, and the Infopoint has lift-assisted access options. Some areas may require staff help, so allow a little extra time.
Facilities are easiest to plan around nearby cafés and major Old Town hubs. If you’re visiting the Infopoint, ask staff what’s available that day.
Yes, the Infopoint at Alter Hof is designed for museum and excursion guidance. It’s useful for planning the rest of your Bavaria itinerary.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt are both close and packed with options. You can choose anything from a sit-down meal to a fast snack.
Yes, the surrounding Old Town streets have plenty of cafés within a few minutes’ walk. It’s easy to turn Alter Hof into a coffee-and-stroll moment.
Absolutely, it’s ideal as a short “digestive walk” stop. The visit doesn’t require a big time block.

Safety & Timing

The area is central and generally well-trafficked, but it’s still best to use normal city awareness after dark. For the exhibition, you’ll need to visit during opening hours.
Mornings are typically the calmest, before the Old Town reaches peak foot traffic. Late afternoon can also work well between tour groups.
The courtyard can still be a pleasant walk-through, but the Infopoint/exhibition is typically closed on Sundays. If you want the full experience, plan for a weekday or Saturday.

Nearby Attractions to the Alter Hof

  • Marienplatz: Munich's central square with landmark buildings and constant city energy.
  • Viktualienmarkt: A beloved open-air market for snacks, produce, and quick Bavarian bites.
  • Munich Residenz: The grand former royal palace complex with museums and richly decorated rooms.
  • Frauenkirche: Munich's iconic twin-towered cathedral and a key Old Town orientation point.
  • Hofbräuhaus München: The famous beer hall experience for classic Bavarian atmosphere and people-watching.

The Alter Hof appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Munich!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Monday - Saturday: 10:00-18:00.

Sunday: Closed.

Closed on public holidays.

Price:

Free.

Address: Alter Hof, 80 München-Altstadt-Lehel, Germany
Munich: 1 km
Official Website

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