Englischer Garten
A city park larger than New York's Central Park, where surfing the Eisbach, the Chinese Tower beer garden and a Greek-style temple are part of Munich's weekend life.
The English Garden was designed in 1789 by Benjamin Thompson (Count Rumford) for Elector Karl Theodor. Covering about 375 hectares, it is one of the largest urban parks in the world. At the southern entrance, the artificial wave on the Eisbach is a famous urban surfing spot, with surfers queuing on the bridge to take turns year-round. However, after riverbed cleaning in autumn 2025 the wave shape temporarily disappeared, so check the latest status before you go. Walking north across the lawns, you reach the Greek-style Monopteros on a small hill, with views of the Old Town towers. Further on stands the five-story wooden Chinese Tower, built in 1790, with a beer garden beneath it that seats 7,000 people; brass bands often perform there on weekends. A small lake in the middle of the park allows rowing, and a Japanese teahouse stands on its shore. In summer locals sunbathe on the grass, and some areas allow nude sunbathing. The park is ideal for cycling. From Universität station or from the Haus der Kunst near Odeonsplatz, it is a short walk to the southern entrance.
Opening hours
Open all day; free admission
Nearby sights
- Eisbach Wave
- Villa Stuck
- Maximilianstraße & Maximilianeum
- Munich Residenz
- Odeonsplatz & Theatine Church
- Hofbräuhaus am Platzl
- Pinakothek der Moderne
- Alte Pinakothek