Study abroad programs in Munich submerse you in a wonderfully German vibrant city. The largest in southern Germany, Munich brims with historical significance, cultural intrigue, and modern-day wonder. It’s a city where you can act as a tourist by visiting museums, historical landmarks, and world-famous destinations. You can live as a local by grocery shopping at farmer’s markets, frequenting coffee shops, and socializing in town squares, parks, and local festivals. Add to these opportunities a chance to earn academic credit and brush up on your German, and you’ve got yourself a well-rounded and unique opportunity.
Why Study Abroad in Munich?
To get a sense of Munich, picture a once-medieval town that now expands beyond its original walls and gates. Many of the inner city’s original buildings and gates remain. Added to them, however, are new buildings and neighborhoods that tie the inner city to the outer city. The result is a Munich that is at once ancient and modern; quaint and expansive. If you’re looking for a study abroad destination steeped in history but also boasting the conveniences of modern-day life, Munich might be the city for you.
While you’re in Munich, you may submerse yourself in German culture. Not only is there an abundance of historical, social, and political places and landmarks to visit, there is also a breadth of cultural celebrations in which to partake. Oktoberfest, for example, now an international celebration, originated in Munich. Fall study abroad students might enjoy this fantastic folk festival brimming with German cuisine, music, and community activities. December brings a nationally famous Christkindlemarkt (complete with mulled wine and handcrafted goods), and spring brings treasured events such as Spring Festival (a mini-Oktoberfest for those who miss fall’s), the Festival of Ballet, and Long Night of Music. Any of these festivals might immerse you in Germany’s celebratory spirit and give you a sense of Munich’s culture.
No matter the season of your study abroad program, you’ll likely get to enjoy Munich’s everyday character. Architecture of various eras marches along streets. Intricate pagodas, domed roofs, and towering steeples decorate buildings. Golden statues and public art add interest to neighborhoods, parks, and squares. And ancient beauty blends with modern marvels. The collective of Munich presents an endlessly fascinating backdrop for studying abroad.
While in Munich, try to see and experience these five things (at least!):
- The English Garden, named for its rolling hills and expansive, wide-open landscape. There you’ll find biergartens, monuments, bike paths, jogging paths, a boating lake, and more. Head there to take a deep breath, submerse yourself in nature, and partake in Munich’s lush beauty.
- The Marienplatz Square, a historical market still in use today. While once used for jousts and executions, the square now serves as a place to celebrate and enjoy German culture. Go there to see street performances, listen to music, partake in German cuisine, and shop at permanent or seasonal vendors.
- The Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s oldest farmer’s market. Head there to buy your daily goods from fruit to honey to bread. Stay for a while to sample foods, socialize with friends, or visit a biergarten.
- Munich’s picturesque churches, such as the Church of Our Lady, St. Peter’s Church, and St. Michael’s Church. Read about the churches’ histories, bring your camera, and set out for a day of enjoying the churches’ beauty and place in the community. Enjoy the buildings’ architecture, indoor décor, and, if you’re so inclined, services.
- Munich’s palaces, such as Nymphenburg Palace and Residenz Royal Palace. These expansive buildings may give you a sense of history and royalty. Explore their grounds and, when able, their indoors. Marvel at these beloved and impressive places.
These are just some of many things to see and enjoy in Munich. Add to them a host of museums, galleries, performance arts venues, restaurants, and shops, and you’ve got yourself a wonderful setting to study abroad. Plus, Munich is located relatively close to the Czech Republic, Austria, and Switzerland. Perhaps you can turn your adventure into a multi-country one. There may be plenty of opportunities when you choose one of the study abroad programs in Munich.
Studying in Munich
The beauty of a study abroad program is that you may be able study multiple things at once: culture, language, and a subject within your academic discipline. Simply by living everyday life and exploring Munich, you may get a sense of German culture. By interacting with people and navigating the city, you might develop your German language skills. By going to class and participating in your program, you may earn academic credit. Collectively, you may study many things—officially and casually—when you study abroad in Munich. Also, your program might offer options to:
- Study German as an official part of your program
- Stay with a host family to immerse yourself in German language and culture
- Enjoy structured excursions in Munich and other cities in Germany
- Study in Munich and countries outside of Germany
These and other options may enable you to find your perfect study abroad program.
Study Abroad Programs in Munich: What’s My Next Step?
Now that you have a sense of what it might be like to study abroad in Munich, it’s time to explore your options. On this page, you’ll find a selection of study abroad programis in Munich. If you’re not sure what you want to study or for how long, this option might be a great one. Alternatively, you can use our search tool to explore study abroad programs in Munich by term or specialty. This option can help you refine your search and make it easier to find your perfect program. As you find programs you like, click on their links and contact programs directly for more information or to register. Beginning your study abroad adventure in Munich may be that easy! Enjoy your exploration and your adventure!
