5 reasons that will inspire you to visit the Nymphenburg Palace in Munich

04.09.2023.

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Nymphenburg Palace is the highlight of the Bavarian capital that lies peacefully in its central diameter. Munich is an elegant city where the fairy-tale atmosphere of German towns and historical charm awaits. The English Garden dominates the city in its largeness and impressive authenticity of Bavarian style.

Beer is a fantastic reason to visit Munich, especially during the Oktoberfest. Rich with cultural attractions, Munich is a wonderful city to start your German adventure. Don’t miss the charming Ludwigsburg Castle which is vibrant during the whole year, particularly for the Pumpkin Festival.

The Baroque shine of the Nymphenburg Palace lies in its elegant simplicity. Located in the western district of Neuhausen-Nymphenburg, this royal palace lies just a few tram stops from the main train station. Don’t miss the chance to explore the German masterpiece where the Bavarian history hides deeply.

Almost every evening you can enjoy the classical concert during the summer.

1. Learning about the history of Munich and Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace was a summer residence of the Bavarian kings and governors in the 18th century. Under the rule of Maximilian Emanuel, the Palace experienced comprehensive re-construction. Nymphenburg Castle took its seeds in 1664 thanks to the architects Agostino Barelli and Enrico Zuccalli. Rococo and neoclassical style were carved later into the existing model of the Baroque Palace.

Nymphenburg Palace holds a romantic story of the Bavarian elector Ferdinand Maria and his wife Henriette Adelaide of Savoy. Being a gift to his wife after having their long-awaited son, the Palace was designed in the Italian Baroque style.

Maximilian Emanuel expanded the Palace over the years. In 1716 Joseph Effner made the most exquisite change adding the French Baroque style to the facade with pilasters. The Orangerie building was completed in 1758. The limestone from Kelheim was used as a local material.

2. Fabulous interior

Within the 16 rooms, the highlight of the Palace is the Marble Hall (The Steinerner Saal) in the Central Pavilion. The splendid glory of the Nymphenburg Palace belongs to its outdoor treasure.

The Steinerner Saal (Stone Hall)

The Steinerner Saal is a fascinating hall covering the three-story room, which would welcome the guests. Impressive frescoes by Johann Baptist Zimmermann and decorations by François de Cuvilliés will delight your visit.

The Rococo style from the 1760 makes it one of the oldest of this kind in Bavaria. The name of the palace gives owe to the nymphs that decorate the frescoes. Intertwining with rainbows and flowers they provide the perfect harmony of the pastel colours. Helios in his chariot represents the central fresco.

Schönheitengalerie

Schönheitengalerie (Gallery of Beauties) is a captivating wonder created by King Ludwig. It’s the small dining room that contains 36 portraits of the most beautiful women in Munich. Lola Montez holds a special place in this collection and the heart of King Ludwig.

Neo-Classicism which paves the way to Romantism inspires this Hall. Once Queen Caroline (wife of King Max I Joseph) used to live here.

Queen’s bedroom in the Nymphenburg Palace

Queen’s bedroom in the Nymphenburg Palace

Queen Caroline’s bedroom holds a special historical meaning due to the original furniture from 1815. Not only mahagony furniture, this was a place where King Ludwig II was born in 1845.  The name gives praise to his grandfather Ludwig I, who was born on the same day.

Thanks to its private style, the room covers a lovely collection of children’s furniture and personal items.

3. The gorgeous Park of the Nymphenburg Palace

The exquisite park that surrounds Nymphenburg Palace is simply impressive offering so much space to explore its treasure. The highlight of the park is taking a gondola ride, the ancient tradition of the nobles. The Venetian gondola in the summer months will delight you with the romantic ambiance next to the swans and its scenery.

Originally an Italian garden since 1671, many changes brought an English style in the 19th century. This metamorphosis belongs to Friedrich Ludwig von Sckell and his design. He’s also responsible for the English Garden in Munich.

Two lakes dominate the park with the enriching charm of the waterfall and geysirs. The wildlife unveils the pure treasure while seeing many animals such as deers, rabbits, foxes, frogs and others. Unfortunately, the waterfall at the end of the park wasn’t in the function.

4. Park Palaces at the Nymphenburg Garden

Several pavilions sprinkle at its hidden corners delighting with its interior and tranquility. The famous Amalienburg gives praise to the park, which is a Rococo hunting lodge. It’s built in the 1730s by the elector Karl Albrecht and dedicated to his wife Maria Amalia.

The Brandenburg is a Baroque Pavilion and contains the first heated indoor swimming pool. A very large tiled bath enjoys the shine of the adjacent banqueting hall.

Pagodenburg in the Asian style holds impressive Chinese figures. The Magdaleneklause as an artistic ruin enjoys the charm of meditation. The fantastic blue interior holds the lovely tea house.

The Apollotemple adds more charm to the elegant atmosphere of Nymphenburg Garden.

5. Museums within the Nymphenburg Palace

Several museums that hide within the lovely Garden also deserve your visit. From natural history to porcelain enrich and extend your experience of the Nymphenburg Palace. I didn’t had a chance, but would love to.

Martstallmuseum (Carriage Museum)

Belonging to the former royal stable in th south wing, it’s one of the largest museums of this kind in the world. The golden collection of horses and elegant carriages sounds pretty incredible. The Coronation Coach of Emperor Karl VII in the French Rococo style is the most famous example. The Rococo sleigh of the King Ludwig is a fascinating item that oil lamps give a special charm.

Porcelain Museum

Porcelain Museum will delight you with its stunning collection from the Greek time to Art Noveau. Located above the stable, you can enjoy the private collection of Albert Bäuml.

Founded in 1747 by Max III Joseph, these handcrafted items have a special charm.

Museum Mensch und Natur

Dedicated to the natural history, it’s located at the North wing. Particularly attractive to children, it covers the detailed and fun exhibits.

Erwin von Kreibig Museum

A lovely museum that covers the artwork of the Munich painter requires a local guide.

How to reach Nymphenburg Palace

The easiest way to reach the Nymphenburg Palace is to take a tram n.17 from the central train station. It’s about 15 minutes ride to the Palace.

What else to see in Munich

Munich is a stunning city and a fantastic basis to explore pretty German towns such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The fairy-tale vibe of German towns is simply astonishing thanks to the painted facades.

Marienplatz is a charming starting point full of locals and tourists. The name is due to the Marian column from the 17th century that celebrated the withdrawal of the Swedish troops from Munich.

English Garten dominates the city as it’s larger even from the New York’s Central Park.

Fantastic day trip is a Starnberg lake, easily reachable with a local train.

Alle Utting is a fantastic boat bar at the bridge that serves also as a night club and culture hub.

Nymphenburg Palace is a fantastic crown to the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle.

Where to stay in Munich

Wombat’s City Hostel Hauptbahnhof– cozy ambience in the pure centre and its own guest kitchen;

Hotel Mio by Amano– is a budget-friendly hotel with an excellent location near Marienplatz;

Alpen Hotel München– excellent stay close to the central train station and lovely rooms;

Final thoughts

Nymphenburg Palace is an unmissable location if you’re visiting Munich. Adding an elegant charm, it’s a gorgeous place to experience history and relaxing stroll through nature.

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