Background

Frauenkirche: Munich's Iconic Cathedral

Discover Munich's iconic Frauenkirche: a symbol of resilience, architectural grandeur, and rich history, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Bavarian heritage.

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, the red-brick church stands as a testament to Munich's resilience, having been painstakingly restored after severe damage in World War II. Inside, discover the Devil's Footprint, a mysterious mark with a legendary tale, and climb the south tower for panoramic views stretching to the Alps. The Frauenkirche is more than just a beautiful building; it's a symbol of Munich's history, faith, and architectural ingenuity, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience its unique atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Its simple yet imposing design, coupled with its central location, makes it an unmissable stop for any traveler exploring the Bavarian capital.

A brief summary to Frauenkirche

Local tips

  • Climb the south tower for panoramic views of Munich and, on clear days, the Alps. Tickets are available in the cathedral shop.
  • Look for the Devil's Footprint (Teufelstritt) near the entrance and learn the legend behind this mysterious mark.
  • Attend an organ concert or cathedral music performance to experience the Frauenkirche's remarkable acoustics.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the pedestrian zone of Frauenplatz and nearby Marienplatz to soak in the atmosphere of Munich.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as the church may be closed for services or special events.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    The Frauenkirche is located in the heart of Munich's Altstadt (Old Town) and is easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From Marienplatz, head north along Kaufingerstrasse. The Frauenkirche will be visible on your right after a short walk. The walk is approximately 5 minutes and takes you through a pedestrian zone with shops and cafes.

  • Public Transport

    The closest public transport stop is Marienplatz, served by both U-Bahn (lines U3 and U6) and S-Bahn (all S-Bahn lines). From Marienplatz station, follow the signs towards Kaufingerstrasse and the Frauenkirche. The walk from the station exit to the church is approximately 5 minutes. A single short trip ticket (Kurzstrecke) on the U-Bahn or S-Bahn costs around €1.90. A day ticket (Tageskarte) might be a better value if you plan to use public transport multiple times.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off near the Frauenkirche, but note that the immediate area is a pedestrian zone. The closest drop-off point is likely on one of the streets bordering the Altstadtring, such as Kardinal-Faulhaber-Strasse or Augustinerstrasse. From there, it's a short walk to the church. A taxi ride from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to the vicinity of the Frauenkirche will cost approximately €10-€15, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    Driving directly to the Frauenkirche is not recommended due to the pedestrian zone in the city center. Parking is available in several garages in the vicinity, such as the Parkgarage Marienplatz (Rindermarkt 16) or the parking garage at the Schrannenhalle (Prälat-Zistel-Straße). Parking fees typically range from €6-€8 per 2 hours, with daily maximums around €45. Street parking is very limited and difficult to find. Consider using a Park and Ride (P+R) facility outside the city center and taking public transport to Marienplatz.

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 Munich's most famous church and a defining symbol of the city. Its two distinctive towers, capped with onion-shaped domes, have been a fixture of the Munich skyline for centuries, serving as a constant reminder of the city's rich history and enduring spirit. Construction of the Frauenkirche began in 1468, led by architect Jörg von Halsbach, and was completed in just 20 years – a remarkable feat for the time. The cathedral was built in the late Gothic style, replacing an older Romanesque church on the same site. Due to a lack of local stone quarries, the Frauenkirche was constructed primarily of red brick, a design choice that contributes to its distinctive appearance. The towers, however, weren't completed until 1525, with their unique domes modeled after the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, which at the time was believed to be the ancient Solomon's Temple. The interior of the Frauenkirche is surprisingly spacious, capable of accommodating up to 20,000 people. The high vaulted ceilings and tall, slender pillars create a sense of grandeur and serenity. Although much of the original interior was destroyed during World War II, the restored cathedral retains its Gothic nave, several original stained-glass windows, and a collection of artwork spanning from the 14th to 18th centuries. One of the most intriguing features of the Frauenkirche is the "Devil's Footprint" (Teufelstritt), a mysterious black mark near the entrance. Legend has it that the devil himself visited the church during its construction and, pleased that he couldn't see any windows from that particular spot (an optical illusion created by the placement of the columns), stamped his foot in glee, leaving a permanent mark. When he took another step forward, he discovered the windows and felt that he has been deceived. Angrily, he turned into wind in order to destroy the building. The south tower is open to visitors and offers breathtaking panoramic views of Munich and the surrounding area. From nearly 99 meters high, you can see the entire city spread out before you, and on a clear day, even catch a glimpse of the Alps in the distance. The ascent involves a combination of spiral staircase and elevator, making it accessible to most visitors. The north tower is not accessible to the public. The Frauenkirche has been the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising since 1821, solidifying its importance as a religious center. The bishop's crypt beneath the cathedral houses the tombs of several members of the Wittelsbach dynasty, as well as archbishops of Munich and Freising. Throughout its history, the Frauenkirche has been a witness to pivotal events in Bavarian history. It suffered extensive damage during World War II, with its roof collapsing and much of its interior destroyed. However, the people of Munich rallied to rebuild their beloved cathedral, and it was reconsecrated in 1954, a symbol of the city's resilience and determination. Today, the Frauenkirche stands as a testament to Munich's rich history, architectural prowess, and unwavering spirit. Its iconic towers and historical significance make it a must-see destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're drawn by its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its spiritual ambiance, the Frauenkirche offers a profound connection to the city's heritage. Beyond the Devil's Footprint, the stunning architecture, and the panoramic views, the Frauenkirche hosts regular organ concerts and cathedral music performances, adding another layer to its cultural appeal. The acoustics within the vast space are remarkable, making these events a truly memorable experience. The area surrounding the Frauenkirche, Frauenplatz, is a pedestrian zone, bustling with activity. It's a perfect place to soak in the atmosphere of Munich, with its mix of shops, cafes, and street performers. The nearby Marienplatz, with the New Town Hall and its famous Glockenspiel, is just a short walk away. The Frauenkirche is more than just a building; it's a living symbol of Munich, embodying the city's ability to rise from the ashes and rebuild, its resilience and determination. It connects the present with the past, inspiring admiration for the enduring spirit of the city and its citizens. A visit to the Frauenkirche is not just a journey into Munich's past but also a celebration of its enduring identity.

Popular Experiences near Frauenkirche

Popular Hotels near Frauenkirche

Select Currency