Munich looks cheerful by day, but its old town has a darker side, and this evening walking tour is built to tell it. A guide leads a group of up to 30 people through the centre, stopping at Marienplatz, the Platzl, Odeonsplatz, Salvatorplatz, Promenadeplatz and Frauenplatz. At each place there is a story, drawn from the city's ghost legends, its executions and its darker chapters, and delivered with humour rather than gore. The tour lasts about two to two and a half hours, of which roughly 70 minutes is actual walking, so the pace is gentle, and the price includes three alcoholic shots along the way, with a non-alcoholic substitute if you ask in advance. It has built up a remarkable record, with an average of 4.9 stars from about 2,100 reviews, most of which praise the guides' storytelling and sense of humour. It is more entertainment than scholarship, so treat it as a lively way to see the old town after dark, learn some local lore and meet other travellers, not as a history lesson. Children who enjoy spooky stories may like it, but the evening timing and the shots make it best for adults and teenagers.
How to plan your visit
The meeting point is outside the Ludwig Beck department store at Marienplatz 11. Guides wait at the top of the stairs at exit C of the Marienplatz U-Bahn station and carry a Ghosts and Spirits sign. The tour ends back at the starting point, so you can go straight to dinner in the old town. The page does not give fixed start times, so choose your date and check availability when you book.
When to go
The tour runs in the evening, so it works well after a day of sightseeing, and in winter it gets dark early, which adds to the atmosphere. Dress warmly, because you spend most of the time outside, and in wet weather bring a small umbrella. Because the group can reach 30 people, standing near the guide at each stop helps you hear the stories.
Things to know
The tour is in English. If you do not drink alcohol, ask for the non-alcoholic substitute in advance. The route is short in distance and flat, though there is standing on cobbles, so comfortable shoes are a good idea. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. If you would prefer a serious historical walk, the Third Reich tour is the better choice, while the old town walking tour gives the daytime overview.
What to expect
The experience
An evening guided walk in English with six story stops across the old town, in groups of up to 30, with three shots included.
Best time
Evenings, especially in autumn and winter when it gets dark early.
How long
About two to two and a half hours.
Tips
Meet at Marienplatz 11. Ask for a non-alcoholic substitute in advance if you prefer. Wear comfortable shoes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who enjoy storytelling, legends and a lively night walk.
- Families
- Teenagers who like spooky tales. The evening timing and the shots suit adults better.
- Couples
- A fun, easy evening out before dinner or drinks.
- Pair with
- Dinner at a beer hall near Marienplatz or the Platzl.
- Time needed
- Two to two and a half hours.
Good questions
How long is the Munich ghost tour?+
About two to two and a half hours, with roughly 70 minutes of walking.
Where do I meet the guide?+
Outside the Ludwig Beck department store at Marienplatz 11. Guides wait at the top of the stairs at exit C of the Marienplatz U-Bahn with a Ghosts and Spirits sign.
Are drinks included?+
Three alcoholic shots are included. A non-alcoholic substitute is available if you request it in advance.
What does it cover?+
Stories of ghosts, legends and executions at six stops, from Marienplatz to Frauenplatz.
What language is it in?+
English, with groups of up to 30 people.
