Where to hang out in Munich: Marienplatz where the New Town Hall looks older than its Old Town Hall!

For first timers in Munich, Marienplatz is the place to go. This square is just buzzing with incredible energy! And you get to see local strays of the male tourist kind, on the loose, in lederhosen, and with a beer in hand. Then there are street musicians and crazy impromptu bands serenading on every corner, and of course, lots of outdoor cafÃ© terraces or as how they call it here in Munchenâ€”biergarten abound. Like?

Plus the square is oozing with photo opportunities from every angle. Iâ€™m seeing people taking selfie shots with the Munich Neues Rathaus in the background that looks more like a church than a government office.

Munich New Town Hall (Munchen Neues Rathaus)

I know, this Gothic Revival style building does not really look all too new to me! And it resembles more like a church, huh? But it’s impressive and the most striking edifice on Marienplatz. The building somehow reminds me of Brussels Town Hall, they could easily be twin sisters.

The new town hallâ€™s tower has a Glockenspiel, an ornate clock with moving statuettes re-enacting a medieval jousting tournament and dance.

Nevertheless, the new municipality moved here in 1874.

Munich Old Town Hall (Munchen Altes Rathaus)

And this is the Old Town Hall of Munich looking newer than the New Town Hall. It is located on the east side of Marienplatz. Pretty and eye-catchy in late Gothic style architecture but I have to admit, not as imposing as the new one.

According to history, this building has appeared in documents in 1310. In 1874, the municipality was moved to the new town hall across the square.

Scenes at the Marienplatz

What can I say, it is very busy here at Marienplatz in the evenings. If you are in Munich, on your own and you are bored (or even with a group of friends or with your loved one), head over here and watch, or better yet, be part of the lively scene.