Background

Frauenkirche: Munich's Iconic Cathedral

Discover Munich's iconic Frauenkirche, a symbol of resilience with stunning Gothic architecture, the legendary Devil's Footprint, and panoramic city views from its historic towers.

4.6

The Frauenkirche, or Cathedral of Our Lady, is Munich's most recognizable landmark, its twin towers dominating the city skyline. Built in the late Gothic style in the 15th century, the red-brick church stands as a symbol of Munich's resilience, having been painstakingly restored after severe damage in World War II. Visitors are drawn to its towering presence, the intriguing legend of the Devil's Footprint, and the panoramic views from the south tower. The interior, while simple, houses significant historical artifacts, including the tomb of Holy Roman Emperor Louis IV and stunning stained-glass windows. A visit offers a glimpse into Munich's rich history and architectural prowess, making it a must-see destination for any traveler. Its iconic towers, each nearly 100 meters tall, have shaped Munich's identity for centuries, and a local referendum ensures no building exceeds their height.

A brief summary to Frauenkirche

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Climb the south tower for panoramic views of Munich and the Alps (small fee applies; check opening times).
  • Look for the 'Devil's Footprint' near the entrance and learn the legend behind this mysterious mark.
  • Attend a Sunday service or organ concert to experience the Frauenkirche's spiritual atmosphere and acoustics.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is an active place of worship.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Frauenkirche is easily accessible via Munich's excellent public transport system. Take the U-Bahn (lines U3 or U6) or any S-Bahn line (S1-S8) to Marienplatz station. From Marienplatz, it's a short, signposted walk of just a few minutes to the Frauenkirche. Tram lines 19, N19, 21 and 31 also stop at Marienplatz (Theatinerstrasse), a couple of streets north of the church. A single journey ticket within the city zone costs around €3.70. A day ticket (Tageskarte) for unlimited travel within the inner district (zone M) is a worthwhile investment at approximately €9.10 if you plan to use public transport multiple times.

  • Walking

    From Marienplatz, walk north along Kaufingerstrasse. The Frauenkirche will appear on your right after a few blocks. Alternatively, from Odeonsplatz, walk south along Theatinerstrasse, turn right onto Frauenplatz, and you'll see the Frauenkirche directly ahead. Walking is free and allows you to explore the charming streets of Munich's old town.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Munich. A short ride from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to the Frauenkirche will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic. Be sure to specify 'Frauenkirche' or 'Frauenplatz 1' as your destination.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the Frauenkirche is not recommended due to the pedestrian zone in the city center. Limited parking is available in nearby garages, but it can be expensive. Consider parking outside the city center and taking public transport. Parking garages near Marienplatz include Contipark Parkgarage (Rindermarkt 16) and MÜHOGA Münchner Hochgaragen (Färbergraben 5). Expect to pay around €6-€8 per 2 hours, with daily maximums ranging from €40-€45. Street parking is very limited and restricted to a maximum of 2 hours, costing around €0.50 per 12 minutes during the day.

Unlock the Best of Frauenkirche

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche, formally known as the Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Dom zu Unserer Lieben Frau), is more than just a church; it's a symbol of Munich, its history etched into every brick and soaring arch. Rising from the heart of the city's old town, the Frauenkirche's twin towers, capped with distinctive onion-shaped domes, have been a fixture of the Munich skyline for centuries. Construction of this late Gothic masterpiece began in 1468, led by architect Jörg von Halsbach. The choice of red brick as the primary building material was a practical one, driven by a scarcity of stone quarries in the region. Remarkably, the main structure was completed in just two decades, a testament to the skill and dedication of the builders. The iconic domes, however, weren't added until 1525, drawing inspiration from the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, then believed to be the site of Solomon's Temple. The Frauenkirche has witnessed pivotal moments in Bavarian history. Cannons were mounted on its roofless towers during the War of the Succession of Landshut. Severely damaged during World War II, the cathedral was carefully reconstructed, a symbol of Munich's enduring spirit. The interior, while more austere than some other Bavarian churches, reflects the Gothic emphasis on verticality and light. Soaring columns draw the eye upward to the vaulted ceilings, while stained-glass windows cast colorful patterns across the nave. One of the church's most famous features is the "Devil's Footprint" (Teufelstritt), a mysterious black mark near the entrance. Legend has it that the Devil himself wagered with the builder that the church would have no windows. Standing in a specific spot, columns obscure the view of the windows, leading the Devil to believe he had won. In a fit of rage upon realizing his deception, he stamped his foot, leaving the permanent mark. Beyond the Devil's Footprint, the Frauenkirche houses a wealth of historical and artistic treasures. The Wittelsbach Monument, a grand memorial, commemorates the contributions of this important Bavarian dynasty. The bishop's crypt beneath the cathedral serves as the final resting place for members of the Wittelsbach family and Archbishops of Munich and Freising. The Frauenkirche also boasts four organs, and the sounds of cathedral music often fill the vast space, particularly during Sunday services and special occasions. Visitors can ascend the south tower for panoramic views of Munich and the surrounding Alps. The ascent involves a climb of 89 steps followed by a ride in a lift. From the top, the city unfolds in a tapestry of red rooftops, green parks, and winding streets. On a clear day, the distant peaks of the Alps provide a stunning backdrop. The north tower is not accessible to the public. The Frauenkirche remains an active place of worship, serving as the cathedral for the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising. Visitors are welcome to attend services and experience the spiritual atmosphere of this historic building. However, it's important to be respectful of worshippers and refrain from sightseeing during services. The Frauenkirche's significance extends beyond its religious function. It is a symbol of Munich's identity, its resilience, and its architectural heritage. A local ordinance prohibits the construction of buildings taller than the Frauenkirche within the city center, ensuring that its iconic towers will continue to dominate the skyline for generations to come. A visit to the Frauenkirche is a journey through Munich's past, a celebration of its present, and a testament to its enduring spirit.

Popular Experiences near Frauenkirche

Popular Hotels near Frauenkirche

Select Currency