Theaters

One of my favorite spots in town for people watching is at Gärtnerplatz, located in the heart of the Glockenbach district. The “platz” was originally constructed in 1860 as a central square for the then newly developed Isarvorstadt quarter of the city (which includes Glockenbach).

The square was named in honor of the renowned German architect, Friedrich von Gärtner, from whom Munich has many a standing structure to be thankful; the most famous of Gärtner’s Munich works include the “Feldherrnahlle” on Odeonsplatz and the “Siegestor” in Schwabing. A bust of Gärtner can be found on the square today.

In the summer months, hordes of young Munich locals pack on the mound that forms the square, enjoying an ice-cream, the newspaper, a cold beer or each other’s company. Surrounding the square is a host of shops, cafes and restaurants which attract passersby, especially when the weather is at its best.

At the rear of the square is the 19th century Staatstheatre am Gärtnerplatz theatre, which serves as Munich’s second opera house after the National Theatre. From September to July, the theatre hosts over 200 performances; tickets are fairly easy to come by last minute, so check inside at the ticket counter if something strikes your interest.