Justizpalast München, Munich

Historic Building, Memorial and Museum in Munich

Justizpalast München
Justizpalast München
CC BY-SA 2.5 / Nino Barbieri

Justizpalast München (the Palace of Justice) is one of Munich's most striking late-19th-century public buildings, known for its grand Neo-Baroque façade and a surprisingly elegant interior that feels more like a palace than a courthouse. It sits just northwest of Karlsplatz (Stachus), making it an easy add-on between the Hauptbahnhof area and the historic center.

Even if you're only doing a quick walking tour of central Munich, it's worth detouring here for the architecture and the atmosphere of the light-filled halls. If you have more time, plan your visit around the White Rose courtroom exhibition, which adds powerful historical context to what might otherwise be “just” a beautiful building.

History and Significance of the Justizpalast München

Justizpalast München opened in the late 1800s as a statement building for Bavaria's judiciary, designed to project authority, stability, and civic pride. Its Neo-Baroque style, monumental scale, and ceremonial interiors were meant to communicate the importance of law in public life.

The building's significance goes beyond architecture. During the Nazi era, parts of the justice system were turned into instruments of repression, and the Justizpalast became connected to some of the era's darkest chapters.

Today, the on-site White Rose courtroom exhibition helps visitors understand how the rule of law can be dismantled and why democratic institutions matter. Seeing this history presented in an original location makes the experience especially direct and memorable.

Things to See and Do in the Justizpalast München

Start with the exterior: the richly detailed façade is best appreciated from across the street, where you can take in the building’s symmetry and sculptural ornamentation. It’s a rewarding stop for architecture lovers even if you don’t go inside.

If the building is open to visitors, head in to experience the interior’s grand public spaces. Travelers consistently mention the impressive design details and the “palace-like” feel, so give yourself time to look up, slow down, and take in the scale.

The highlight for many visitors is the White Rose courtroom exhibition (in the historic courtroom setting). It's a focused, sobering visit that adds meaning to the architecture and turns a quick photo stop into a deeper Munich experience.

How to Get to the Justizpalast München

Munich is served primarily by Munich Airport (MUC), with Memmingen Airport (FMM) sometimes used by low-cost carriers; from either airport, you'll connect onward into the city center. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Munich on Booking.com.

Munich Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) is a major rail hub with frequent long-distance and regional connections, and from there you can reach Karlsplatz (Stachus) quickly by S-Bahn/U-Bahn or on foot depending on your route. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

If you’re traveling by car, aim for a central parking garage and continue on foot or by public transport, as street parking is limited and traffic can be slow around the inner city. 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 Justizpalast München

  • Official website: https://www.justiz.bayern.de/ministerium/weisse-rose-saal/
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Monday – Thursday: 08:00–16:00. Friday: 08:00–15:00. Saturday: Closed. Sunday: Closed.
  • Best time to visit: Go on a weekday morning for a calmer experience and shorter security lines; midday can feel busier.
  • How long to spend: Plan 20–40 minutes for architecture and photos, or 60–90 minutes if you also want to read the White Rose exhibition carefully.
  • Accessibility: Expect security screening at entry and a working public building layout; if step-free access matters, confirm arrangements before you go.
  • Facilities: As an active courthouse, amenities are limited for tourists; plan for restrooms and food breaks at nearby stations and cafés around Stachus/Hauptbahnhof.

Where to Stay Close to the Justizpalast München

The best area to base yourself is central Munich around Hauptbahnhof and Karlsplatz (Stachus) for easy walking access and fast public-transport connections.

Sofitel Munich Bayerpost Choose this for a polished, high-comfort stay steps from Hauptbahnhof, ideal if you want to keep day trips and airport transfers effortless.

Le Méridien Munich A strong all-rounder near the station with a more contemporary feel, great for travelers who want convenience without feeling stuck in a purely “transit” zone.

Hotel Bayerischer Hof A classic luxury pick closer to the old town, perfect if you want a more iconic Munich experience while still being within easy reach of the Justizpalast.

KING's HOTEL Center A reliable mid-range option near Hauptbahnhof that works well for short stays, early trains, and travelers who value practicality.

Eurostars Book Hotel A stylish, good-value choice with a fun theme and walkable access to both the station area and central sights.

Is the Justizpalast München Worth Visiting?

Yes, it's worth visiting if you enjoy architecture or want a meaningful, lesser-known historical stop in central Munich. The building's grandeur makes it a standout even on a quick walk, and the White Rose courtroom exhibition adds depth that many visitors don't expect.

Honest Pivot: If you're short on time and only want “headline” Munich sights, you might prefer to focus on Marienplatz, the Residenz, or the museums in the Kunstareal. Also, if you're visiting outside public access times, you may only get an exterior view, which can feel disappointing if you were hoping to see the interior.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (214)

Google reviewers are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the Justizpalast's impressive Neo-Baroque architecture, ornate interior details, and the powerful White Rose courtroom exhibition. Many appreciate that entry can be free and that it's a rewarding stop on a central Munich walk. The most common downside is practical: several visitors report arriving when it was closed or being unable to enter, so timing your visit matters.

david antoun
11 months ago
"neo baroque building from 1897. impressive architecture details outside and inside. the interior design is awesome. on the 2nd floor an exhibitionabout the white rose trials. you're allowed to enter for free and take photos...."
UK Photo Journey
2 years ago
"Very impressive and beautiful building called palace of justice. It’s been built at the end of 19th century. Wish I can visit this building insidebut seems it was closed due to some reason...."
Troy Clank
7 months ago
"Nice from the outside, it was closed, as it was a Sunday night. Nice façade."

For Different Travelers

Justizpalast München can be a quick visual stop or a more reflective visit depending on your interests. Because it's a working judicial building, the experience is more structured than a typical museum, but that's also what makes it feel real.

Families with Kids

For families, the outside is an easy win: big architecture, quick photos, and a short walk from major transport hubs. It’s a good “reset stop” between more kid-focused attractions.

Inside, the White Rose exhibition is best for older kids and teens who can engage with the historical themes. For younger children, keep it brief and focus on the building’s scale and design.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples who like city walks will enjoy adding the Justizpalast as a quieter, more distinctive stop near Stachus. It pairs well with a café break and a stroll toward Königsplatz or into the old town.

The exhibition can also be a meaningful shared experience, especially if you like travel that includes context and reflection rather than only scenic highlights.

Budget Travelers

This is a strong budget-friendly stop because you can appreciate the exterior at any time and, when open, the exhibition is free. It's also conveniently located, so you won't need extra transit costs if you're already exploring central Munich.

If you’re planning a DIY walking day, combine it with nearby squares and museums to build a full itinerary without paid tickets.

History Buffs

History-focused travelers should prioritize the White Rose courtroom exhibition, which connects Munich’s wartime resistance story to a real place where justice was manipulated and weaponized. It’s a compact visit, but it carries weight.

Pairing this stop with other White Rose-related sites in Munich can create a powerful thematic half-day, especially if you like understanding a city through specific events and locations.

FAQs for Visiting Justizpalast München

Getting There

Yes, it’s close enough to reach on foot for most travelers. It also works well as a stop between the station area and Karlsplatz (Stachus).
Karlsplatz (Stachus) is the most convenient nearby hub with multiple U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram connections. From there, it’s a short walk.
Yes, it fits easily into a central walking route that also includes Stachus, Königsplatz, and the old town. It’s best as a short stop plus one focused exhibit visit.

Tickets & Entry

No ticket is needed for the White Rose courtroom exhibition during its public opening hours. General access can vary because it’s a working courthouse.
Yes, the exhibition is free to visit. It’s designed as a public-facing educational display.
Individuals typically don’t need to pre-book, but larger groups should register ahead of time. If you’re traveling with a class or group, plan early.

Visiting Experience

It feels more formal and “real-world” than a museum because it’s an active judicial building. The payoff is the impressive interior and the authenticity of the setting.
Yes, the exterior is still a strong architecture stop and a good photo location. But the interior is what makes it truly special, so check hours if that’s your priority.
Often, yes, especially compared with Munich’s busiest tourist zones. Expect a respectful atmosphere, particularly around the exhibition.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Regular guided tours for private individuals aren’t generally offered through the exhibition organizers. For guided experiences, look for external tour providers.
Use it as a link between Stachus/Hauptbahnhof and Königsplatz, then continue into the old town. It’s a convenient “anchor stop” in central Munich.
A basic understanding of the White Rose resistance movement and Munich’s WWII history will make the exhibition more impactful. Even a short overview beforehand helps.

Photography

Visitors commonly report that photography is allowed in public areas and the exhibition. Be mindful of signage and avoid photographing people in sensitive contexts.
Yes, both the façade and interior spaces are highly photogenic. Wide-angle shots work well for capturing the scale.
Because it’s a working public building with security, tripods may be restricted. If you need one, plan to ask on-site.

Accessibility & Facilities

Yes, expect entry screening similar to other government buildings. Build in a little buffer time.
Accessibility is often possible in major public buildings, but routes can vary by entrance and what areas are open. If you need step-free access, confirm before you go.
Facilities can be limited and may depend on which areas are open. It’s smart to plan a restroom stop at nearby stations or cafés.

Food & Breaks Nearby

The Stachus and Hauptbahnhof areas have plenty of bakeries, cafés, and quick meals. It’s easy to pair this stop with a coffee break.
Don’t count on tourist-style dining inside a working courthouse. Plan your food stop nearby.
For a sit-down outdoor break, head toward nearby squares and green pockets around the central area. For a bigger park break, you’ll want to continue onward.

Safety & Timing

Yes, it’s in a central, well-trafficked part of Munich. As always, keep an eye on belongings around major transport hubs.
Access can be limited outside posted public opening hours and on weekends/holidays. If the interior is your main goal, go on a weekday.
Arriving earlier in the day helps you avoid queues and gives you more time to read the exhibition at a comfortable pace. It also reduces the risk of last-minute access changes.

Nearby Attractions to the Justizpalast München

  • Karlsplatz (Stachus): A major central square and transport hub that's a natural starting point for city walks.
  • Königsplatz: Monumental neoclassical architecture and museum access in the Kunstareal area.
  • Lenbachhaus: A top modern-art museum, especially known for works connected to the Blue Rider movement.
  • Frauenkirche: Munich's iconic twin-towered cathedral in the heart of the old town.
  • Marienplatz: The city's main square with the New Town Hall and classic Munich street life.

The Justizpalast München 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 - Thursday: 08:00-16:00.

Friday: 08:00-15:00.

Saturday: Closed.

Sunday: Closed.

Price:

Free.

Address: Prielmayerstraße 7, 80335 München, Germany
Munich: 1 km
Telephone: +49 89 559703
Official Website

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