Munich is home to over 40 markets, with more than 120 traders: each one is unique and has its own story. Here is a little guide to the market week, which – take note! – only runs from Tuesday to Saturday.
On sunny afternoons, the market on Josephsplatz in Maxvorstadt is almost like a little street festival: children run riot between up to thirteen stalls; locals chat in groups; and people toast each other with their after-work beers as they sit on the benches in the middle.
To go: Cherries, plums or apples – the selection at the various fruit stalls changes depending on the season. However, fresh juices and hearty schnapps are always available.
To eat on the spot: Today, would you prefer bratwurst and steak sandwiches from Sonnenhof or smoked trout from Manfred Kneidl?
To relax: The Joseph-Spielplatz playground is not just for kids, the benches or the grass are a great place to sit and take it easy.
Josephsplatz, 12 noon to 6 p.m.
Also on Tuesday: Maxvorstadt farmers' market, Haidhausen weekly market
A great location, lots of space and a wonderful backdrop – no wonder Mariahilfplatz is home to several markets. The farmers’ market, comprising around eighteen stalls with fine regional and truly seasonal produce, takes place here every Wednesday; while the weekly market is held in the square on Saturdays. The Mariahilfplatz is also the location for the traditional Auer Dult market, which takes place here three times a year.
To go: A very special selection of meat products. From quail and young pigeon at Leserer’s poultry stall, to fresh beef and lamb at Fischer’s butcher.
To eat on the spot: Demeter wholemeal baked goods, cakes and grilled items.
To relax: If you’re looking for something a little more peaceful, why not make a picnic of your purchases and enjoy it along the banks of the Isar, located a mere five minutes away?
Mariahilfplatz, 7 am to 13 pm
Also on Wednesday: Sendling weekly market, Harlaching farmers' market
Lehel’s splendid streets make it one of the most beautiful districts of Munich. The little market in St-Anna-Platz, with its twelve or so stalls, blends seamlessly with this idyllic setting. Shopping here feels like visiting a quaint little village corner shop. Everyone knows each other, has a chat and exchanges advice – in the open air.
To go: The goat’s milk products from the Etzlstorfer farm in Deutenhausen have won multiple awards – and you can taste why!
To eat on the spot: Many locals come to the market just for Plöckl’s fantastic cakes. These are baked in a farmhouse in the countryside near Dachau.
To relax: The square has a few benches and surrounding cafés. With its monastery church, it is also a little oasis of calm in the middle of Munich city centre!
St. Anna Platz, 10:30 am to 6 pm
Also on Thursday: Bogenhausen weekly market, Neuhausen weekly market, Schwanthalerhöhe farmers' market, Untergiesing weekly market, Schwabing weekly market, Thalkirchen weekly market
The Ackermannbogen market is the youngest of Munich’s markets and – just like the new district of the city that it is located in, not far from the Olympic Park – it is still growing. And yet its ten or so stalls offer all the heart of a market needs, from sausage and vegetables to midday snacks.
To go: South Tyrolean bacon from the Kral farm and freshwater fish from Feinkost Krammer.
To eat on the spot: Annacru Coffee offers coffee and tea as well as cakes, sandwiches and quiche to go!
To relax: Water fountains spray out of the ground directly behind the market stalls – great fun for kids on hot days.
Ackermannbogen, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Also on Friday: Giesing weekly market, Laim farmers' market
During the week, you hardly notice this inconspicuous spot between Brudermühlstraße and Thalkirchnerstraße in Untersendling, but it plays host to one of Munich’s best markets on a Saturday. The ten stalls offer everything from honey to dried fruit, all of the highest quality.
To go: The Bantschow family stall boasts the best fruit and vegetables of the season, as well as flown-in rarities such as mangoes.
To eat on the spot: If the classic Grillhendl (grilled chicken) isn’t hearty enough for you, you can find crisp knuckle of pork and spare ribs at Hertel.
To relax: This isn’t the most comfortable spot, but luckily Flaucher island, a verdant, peaceful oasis, is just around the corner.
Resi-Huber-Platz, 7 am to 1 pm
Also on Saturday: Au weekly market, Schwabing farmers' market, Untersendling weekly market, Maxvorstadt farmers' market
