German Hunting and Fishing Museum, Munich

Museum in Munich

German Hunting and Fishing Museum
German Hunting and Fishing Museum
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Michael Eschbaumer

Tucked into Munich's pedestrian-friendly city center, the German Hunting and Fishing Museum is an unexpectedly atmospheric museum set inside a former church building on Neuhauser Straße. It's a compact-but-dense stop that blends natural history (think taxidermy and habitats) with cultural history (weapons, tools, paintings, and traditions tied to hunting and fishing).

Because it sits right on a prime shopping-and-sightseeing corridor, it's easy to add to a walking tour between Marienplatz, Karlsplatz (Stachus), and the surrounding Old Town lanes. If you're choosing the best places to see in central Munich beyond the big-name museums, this one stands out for its distinctive theme and setting.

History and Significance of the German Hunting and Fishing Museum

The museum’s story is closely tied to Bavaria’s long relationship with forests, rivers, and alpine landscapes, where hunting and fishing shaped livelihoods, cuisine, and local identity. Over time, these practices also became deeply woven into art, craftsmanship, and social customs—elements the museum highlights through objects and imagery rather than only scientific displays.

One of the most memorable aspects of the visit is the building itself: a former church repurposed into exhibition space. That contrast—sacred architecture housing nature and cultural artifacts—adds a sense of drama to the galleries and makes the museum feel like more than a simple collection of trophies.

Today, the museum’s significance lies in how it frames hunting and fishing not just as sport, but as part of environmental stewardship, tradition, and changing attitudes toward wildlife. It’s a place where visitors can see how nature, ethics, and heritage intersect in the German-speaking world.

Things to See and Do in the German Hunting and Fishing Museum

Start by taking in the setting: the high-ceilinged interior and the way exhibits are layered across multiple levels. Displays typically include taxidermy specimens, habitat-style presentations, and historical equipment that helps explain how hunting and fishing evolved over centuries.

Look out for the museum’s themed areas that bring the forest and water worlds to life. Many visitors enjoy the mix of animals, fish-related exhibits, and the visual-art component—paintings and graphics that show how wildlife and hunting culture were portrayed in different eras.

If you're visiting with kids, seek out the more interactive, educational sections that focus on ecosystems and fisheries. Even adults who aren't “hunting people” often find the museum engaging because it's part natural history, part cultural storytelling, and part Munich curiosity.

How to Get to the German Hunting and Fishing Museum

Munich is served primarily by Munich Airport (MUC), with Memmingen Airport (FMM) sometimes used by low-cost carriers for the wider region. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Munich on Booking.com.

From elsewhere in Germany or nearby countries, Munich Central Station (München Hauptbahnhof) is a major rail hub with frequent long-distance and regional connections, making a train-first itinerary very straightforward. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re driving, aim for a central parking garage and continue on foot, since the museum sits in the pedestrian zone where street access is limited. 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 German Hunting and Fishing Museum

  • Official website: https://www.jagd-fischerei-museum.de/
  • Entrance fee: Adults: €7; Concessions: €5; Children (3–16): €3.50; Family ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children): €14.
  • Opening hours: Daily: 09:30–17:00.
  • Best time to visit: Go in the morning for a quieter experience, especially on weekends when the pedestrian zone gets busy.
  • How long to spend: Plan 60–90 minutes for a solid visit, or up to 2 hours if you like reading labels and lingering over the art.
  • Accessibility: The museum is not step-free, and the exhibition areas are reached via stairs.
  • Facilities: Expect a focused museum visit rather than a full-service complex; bring cash for admission and small purchases.

Where to Stay Close to the German Hunting and Fishing Museum

Best area to base yourself: Munich Altstadt-Lehel (Old Town) for walkability to major sights, restaurants, and easy public transport connections.

Staying near the museum puts you in the heart of Munich’s pedestrian center, which is ideal if you want to stitch together museums, churches, beer halls, and shopping without relying on taxis. These five hotels cover a range of styles while keeping you close to the Old Town core.

Hotel Torbräu A classic, well-located Old Town option that's great for travelers who want to walk everywhere and still have a comfortable, traditional Munich feel.

Platzl Hotel A character-rich stay near some of Munich’s most iconic food-and-beer addresses, ideal if you want atmosphere and a very central base.

Cortiina Hotel A stylish boutique pick for design-minded travelers who want a quieter, more modern vibe while staying close to the action.

Hotel Bayerischer Hof A landmark luxury hotel that works well for a special trip where the hotel experience is part of the itinerary.

KING’s HOTEL Center A practical, comfortable choice near München Hauptbahnhof—handy for early trains and airport transfers while still being a manageable walk or short transit ride to the museum.

Is the German Hunting and Fishing Museum Worth Visiting?

Yes—especially if you like offbeat museums, historic interiors, or exhibits that mix nature with cultural history. The central location makes it an easy add-on, and the combination of taxidermy, tools, and artwork creates a surprisingly varied visit for a relatively compact museum.

Honest Pivot: If you’re short on time and prefer big “headline” art collections or highly interactive, multilingual exhibitions, you may want to prioritize Munich’s larger museums instead. It can also be less satisfying if you expect extensive English interpretation throughout.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (1,091)

Overall, reviews are very positive, with many visitors calling it a unique, centrally located museum that’s worth the entry fee. Common highlights include the variety of displays (taxidermy, hunting equipment, and artwork), friendly staff, and kid-friendly elements including interactive educational areas. The most frequent drawbacks mentioned are limited English explanations in parts of the museum and occasional disappointment when visitors expect more emphasis on fishing compared with hunting.

Yonatan Jacobo
2 weeks ago
"We visit on a Sunday, they dont have the 1€ entry on sunday but thats not a problem. My problem is that I did not see not fish area ! 🤣 only hunting.There is not english explanation, the building is beautiful and i like the museum but not fish area!!..."
Andrew “Andy” Kamel
7 months ago
"A unique museum in prime location at the Center of the city, I’ve always passed by but never went in. Today was the day to visit. The Collection isfantastic of animals and fish, the display is great. I also enjoyed the paintings and hunting equipment. The staff are so friendly )) I enjoyed their way of welcoming. Thank you Mario and Julius...."
Kerri Scott
6 months ago
"A small, but interesting set of exhibits related to hunting and fishing items. There was one space with educational, interactive exhibits forchildren about current day fisheries with most of the information in German...."

For Different Travelers

The German Hunting and Fishing Museum is a niche attraction, but it fits neatly into many Munich itineraries because it's central and easy to combine with other Old Town highlights. Your enjoyment mostly depends on whether you're curious about wildlife, heritage crafts, and regional traditions.

Families with Kids

Families often appreciate the animal-focused displays because they’re visually engaging even when kids don’t want to read labels. The museum can be a good “indoor reset” between outdoor sightseeing stops in the Old Town.

To keep it fun, treat it like a scavenger hunt: spot different species, compare antlers and horns, and look for water-themed exhibits. If your children are sensitive to taxidermy, preview expectations before you go in.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the appeal is the unusual setting and the sense of discovering something you might otherwise walk past. It’s a good choice when you want a short, memorable cultural stop that isn’t as crowded as the biggest sights.

Pair it with a relaxed Old Town stroll afterward—coffee, pastries, or a cozy Bavarian meal nearby. The museum’s former-church interior also makes the visit feel more atmospheric than you might expect from the theme.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers will like that it’s centrally located, so you can reach it on foot and avoid extra transport costs. It also works well as a shorter museum visit that doesn’t take over your whole day.

If you’re watching spending, combine it with free Old Town highlights (churches, squares, and riverside walks) to build a full day around a single paid attraction.

History Buffs

History buffs will find interest in how hunting and fishing shaped social life, craftsmanship, and imagery over time. The museum’s objects help connect everyday tools and traditions to broader cultural narratives.

Pay attention to the way the museum uses art and historical equipment to reflect changing values around nature and wildlife. The building’s past life as a church adds another layer of historical context to the experience.

FAQs for Visiting German Hunting and Fishing Museum

Getting There

Yes, it’s an easy walk through the Old Town pedestrian area. Plan a few extra minutes if you’re visiting during busy shopping hours.
Central Old Town stops around Karlsplatz (Stachus) and Marienplatz are both convenient. From either, you can continue on foot through the pedestrian zone.
Not usually, because the museum is in a pedestrian area. Expect to be dropped nearby and walk the final stretch.

Tickets & Entry

Usually not for a standard visit, but it can be helpful during peak travel periods. If you’re on a tight schedule, confirm before you go.
Yes, there are reduced prices for children and family tickets. Check the official website for the exact categories that apply to your group.
Bring cash, as cash-only payment may apply on site. If you prefer card payments, plan ahead so you’re not caught out.

Visiting Experience

It covers both, with exhibits spanning forest wildlife and water worlds. The balance can feel different depending on what you personally focus on.
Some visitors find English interpretation limited in parts of the museum. If you don’t read German, you may rely more on the visual displays.
Yes, many visitors enjoy it as a nature-and-culture museum rather than a “hunter’s museum.” The taxidermy, art, and setting are the main draws.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it fits neatly between major Old Town stops like Marienplatz and Karlsplatz (Stachus). It’s a good mid-walk indoor break.
It’s best as an extra if you’ve already planned the core Old Town highlights. Think of it as a distinctive add-on rather than a must-see for everyone.
Guided programs may be offered for groups or special themes. If you want deeper context, check what’s currently available before your visit.

Photography

Rules can vary by exhibition and may change over time. Look for signage on arrival and ask staff if you’re unsure.
Many museums restrict flash to protect objects and visitor experience. Plan to shoot without flash unless explicitly permitted.
Tripods are often restricted in museums due to space and safety. If you need one, request permission in advance.

Accessibility & Facilities

No, it is not fully accessible due to stairs between sections. If step-free access is essential, consider alternative museums nearby.
Restrooms are typically available, but facilities may be limited compared with larger museums. Plan accordingly if traveling with small children.
Many museums have some form of bag policy or storage. Travel light if possible and follow on-site guidance.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Don’t count on a full café experience on site. The good news is you’re surrounded by cafés and bakeries in the pedestrian zone.
Head toward Marienplatz or Karlsplatz (Stachus) for plenty of fast, casual options. You’ll also find bakeries and coffee spots along nearby streets.
Most museums restrict eating in galleries. Finish snacks before entry and carry water discreetly if allowed.

Safety & Timing

It can get busier on weekends and during peak tourist seasons because of the central location. Visiting earlier in the day helps.
The Old Town center is generally well-lit and busy, especially around main streets. As always, keep an eye on belongings in crowded areas.
Arrive with enough buffer time to enjoy the museum without rushing. Also note that museums often have a last entry time before closing.

Nearby Attractions to the German Hunting and Fishing Museum

  • Marienplatz: Munich's central square with landmark architecture and a lively atmosphere day and night.
  • Frauenkirche: The city's iconic twin-towered cathedral, a key Old Town sight with a distinctive skyline presence.
  • St. Michael’s Church (Michaelskirche): A major Renaissance church close by, known for its grand interior and central location.
  • Karlsplatz (Stachus): A busy gateway to the pedestrian zone with shopping, transit connections, and seasonal events.
  • Viktualienmarkt: A famous food market area ideal for browsing local specialties and grabbing a casual bite.

The German Hunting and Fishing Museum 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:

Daily: 09:30-17:00.

Price:

Adults: €7; Concessions: €5; Children (3-16): €3.50; Family ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children): €14.

Address: Neuhauser Str. 2, 80331 München, Germany
Munich: 1 km
Telephone: +49 89 220522
Official Website

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