Hofgarten, Munich

Gardens, Memorial and Monument in Munich

Kriegerdenkmal im Hofgarten
Kriegerdenkmal im Hofgarten
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Oliver Kurmis

Hofgarten is a solemn war memorial set into the eastern edge of Munich's Hofgarten, just in front of the Bavarian State Chancellery. Unlike towering monuments, it sits down in a rectangular, sunken space, which makes it feel private and contemplative even though you're in the heart of the city.

It's an easy add-on to a central Munich walking tour: pair it with the Hofgarten paths, the Residenz area, and nearby Odeonsplatz. The memorial can be surprisingly easy to miss from a distance, so it's best appreciated when you walk right up to the edge and look down into the space.

History and Significance of the Hofgarten

Kriegerdenkmal literally means “war memorial,” and this site was created to commemorate Munich’s war dead, originally focusing on those killed in World War I. Its placement at the Hofgarten’s eastern end connects it to the city’s historic power center, close to the Residenz and the Bavarian government buildings.

The design choice is part of what makes it memorable: rather than dominating the skyline, the memorial is recessed below ground level. That physical descent changes the mood immediately, encouraging visitors to slow down, lower their voices, and reflect.

Over time, the memorial's meaning broadened for many visitors, who now treat it as a place to pause and remember losses across the wars that shaped modern Munich. Even if you arrive with no background, the atmosphere communicates the intent clearly.

Things to See and Do in the Hofgarten

Start by viewing the memorial from above, then take the stairs down into the sunken area to experience how the space “closes in” and becomes quieter. The contrast between the lively garden paths and the subdued interior is the main experience here.

Look for the sculptural focal point and the stonework around the chamber, which is intentionally restrained. Because the memorial is not flashy, the details and the overall composition matter more than any single “must-see” object.

Afterward, continue your walk through the Hofgarten itself: the garden's geometry, pathways, and nearby landmarks make this a natural stop between bigger sights. It works especially well as a short reflective break before heading to Odeonsplatz or toward the Residenz complex.

How to Get to the Hofgarten

Munich is served by Munich Airport (MUC), with broad international and European connections, and Memmingen Airport (FMM) can be a secondary option for some low-cost routes. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Munich on Booking.com.

If you're arriving by rail, München Hauptbahnhof (Munich Central Station) is the main hub; from there you can connect by U-Bahn/S-Bahn and reach the Hofgarten area quickly. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By public transit within the city, aim for Odeonsplatz (U3/U6), then walk a few minutes into the Hofgarten toward the Bavarian State Chancellery side.

If you’re traveling by car, plan for city-center traffic and limited parking; it’s usually easier to park in a garage outside the core and use the U-Bahn for the final stretch. 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 Hofgarten

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go early in the morning for the quietest atmosphere, or in late afternoon when the light is softer in the garden. Midday can feel busier because it sits on popular walking routes.
  • How long to spend: Plan 10-20 minutes for the memorial itself, plus extra time if you want a slow stroll through the Hofgarten.
  • Accessibility: The memorial involves stairs down into a sunken area; if you prefer step-free access, you can still view it from above at ground level.
  • Facilities: There are no dedicated visitor facilities at the memorial; use cafés and restrooms around Odeonsplatz and the Residenz area.

Where to Stay Close to the Hofgarten

Best area to base yourself: stay in central Altstadt-Lehel/Maxvorstadt for walkability to major sights and easy U-Bahn connections.

For a classic, high-end Munich stay close to the Hofgarten, choose a luxury property with strong service and a quiet base between sightseeing stops.

Hotel Bayerischer Hof Chosen for its iconic Munich pedigree, central location, and easy access to the Hofgarten and old town sights.

Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München Included for its prime position near the Residenz/Hofgarten area and a polished, upscale experience.

Mandarin Oriental, Munich A great pick if you want boutique-luxury vibes and a walkable base for early-morning garden strolls.

Platzl Hotel Ideal for travelers who want Bavarian character, a lively-but-central setting, and quick walks to the Hofgarten.

Hotel Torbräu Selected as a dependable, well-located option that balances comfort and value in the historic center.

Is the Hofgarten Worth Visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting if you appreciate quiet, meaningful places and want a short stop that adds emotional depth to a day of big-ticket Munich landmarks. It's free, central, and memorable precisely because it's understated.

Honest Pivot: if you’re short on time and only want headline attractions, you might skip it in favor of the Residenz interiors, major museums, or a longer neighborhood walk. The memorial is subtle and can feel “too quick” for travelers who prefer interactive or highly visual sights.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (327)

Travelers rate this memorial very highly and describe it as a moving, peaceful stop in a beautiful garden setting near the Bavarian State Chancellery. Common highlights include the quiet atmosphere, the thoughtful sunken design, and how easy it is to add to a central walking route. A recurring downside is that it can be hard to notice from a distance, so some visitors say it's best appreciated only once you're close and looking down into the memorial space.

Michael Mack
6 months ago
"A war memorial to Munich citizens who lost their lives in World War I and World War II. The memorial is in front of the Bayern State Chancellery. Itis a really nice memorial but difficult to see unless you are up close. I enjoyed my visit and happy that I came across this Memorial...."
richandjulie A
a month ago
"Really liked this clever memorial. Sunk into the ground it is unimposing, and yet still poignant. Well worth a quick visit."
Tamás Vincze
6 months ago
"A nice place to walk to, also some sights to see."

For Different Travelers

Hofgarten is a flexible stop: it can be a reflective pause, a quick photo-and-go, or a meaningful moment on a broader city walk. How much you'll enjoy it depends on whether you like understated sites and quiet spaces.

Families with Kids

For families, this works best as a brief stop rather than a long visit. Treat it as a moment to talk about remembrance and why cities create places like this.

Because the memorial is sunken and quiet, keep an eye on younger kids near the stairs and edges. Pair it with time in the Hofgarten paths afterward so the visit feels balanced.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples often appreciate the calm atmosphere and the sense of stepping away from the city without leaving the center. It’s a good “reset” point between busier sights.

Combine it with a slow Hofgarten stroll and a café stop nearby for a low-effort, high-reward segment of a romantic day in Munich.

Budget Travelers

Budget travelers will like that it’s free and located on foot-friendly routes between other top sights. It’s an easy way to add depth to your itinerary without spending money.

Use it as a connector stop: walk from Odeonsplatz through the Hofgarten and onward to other central neighborhoods, minimizing transit costs.

History Buffs

History buffs will appreciate how the memorial’s design communicates grief and remembrance through space rather than spectacle. It’s also a useful prompt to explore Munich’s 20th-century history more broadly.

Visit with context in mind, then continue to nearby historical points in the area to build a more complete narrative of Munich’s past.

FAQs for Visiting Hofgarten

Getting There

Odeonsplatz is the most convenient stop for most visitors. From there, it’s a short walk into the Hofgarten toward the Bavarian State Chancellery side.
Yes, it’s very walkable from Odeonsplatz and the Residenz area. It also fits naturally into an Altstadt-Lehel walking loop.
It can be easy to miss because it sits below ground level. Walk toward the eastern end of the garden and look for the sunken rectangular space.

Tickets & Entry

No ticket is required. You can visit as part of your walk through the Hofgarten.
No, there are typically no timed entries for a public memorial space. Visit when it suits your itinerary.
No, it’s a standalone memorial rather than a ticketed museum. If you want interiors and exhibits, plan a separate museum visit nearby.

Visiting Experience

It’s quiet and understated, with the main space set below ground. The experience is more about atmosphere and reflection than grand views.
Yes, it’s ideal for a short, meaningful pause. Many visitors spend under 20 minutes.
Yes, the sunken design helps reduce the sense of bustle. It often feels calmer than the surrounding garden paths.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it’s easy to include between Odeonsplatz, the Hofgarten, and the Residenz area. It works well as a short “reflection stop” between bigger sights.
No, you can appreciate it without a guide. A little background on Munich’s 20th-century history will deepen the experience.
Walk Odeonsplatz to Hofgarten to the memorial, then continue toward the Residenz area. Add a café break afterward to keep the pace relaxed.

Photography

Yes, casual photography is generally fine in public garden spaces. Be respectful, as it’s a memorial.
Try one photo from above to show the sunken layout, then another from the stairs to capture the enclosed feel. Overcast days can also suit the mood.
It’s usually not necessary for a quick visit. If you use one, be mindful of foot traffic and the solemn setting.

Accessibility & Facilities

The main interior experience requires stairs down into the memorial. If you want to avoid steps, you can still view it from ground level.
No dedicated restrooms are at the memorial itself. Plan to use facilities in nearby cafés, museums, or transit hubs.
The Hofgarten has places to sit, though not necessarily right inside the memorial space. It’s easy to find a nearby spot for a short rest.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, the Odeonsplatz and old town area have plenty of options. It’s easy to plan a coffee stop before or after.
Many people treat the Hofgarten as a casual break spot. Keep it tidy and choose a spot away from the memorial for a more appropriate atmosphere.
Yes, nearby cafés and hotel lounges in the center are convenient. Plan your memorial stop as part of a short outdoor loop.

Safety & Timing

Yes, it’s in a central, well-trafficked area. As anywhere in a city center, keep an eye on your belongings.
Early mornings are typically quietest. Weekdays can feel calmer than weekends in peak season.
It can be atmospheric, but visibility is lower and the mood is more somber. If you go later, take extra care on the stairs.

Nearby Attractions to the Hofgarten

  • Hofgarten: Munich's formal court garden, perfect for a short stroll between major sights.
  • Odeonsplatz: A grand square and transit hub that anchors many central walking routes.
  • Munich Residenz: The former royal palace complex, ideal if you want interiors and museum-style visits.
  • Feldherrnhalle: A prominent landmark at the edge of Odeonsplatz with heavy historical associations.
  • DenkStätte Weiße Rose: A nearby memorial site connected to the White Rose resistance story.

The Hofgarten 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:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Old Town, 80539 Munich, Germany
Munich: 1 km

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