Traveller's Information

Nymphenburg Palace

Where? - Nymphenburg lies almost due west of downtown Munich, approx 5 kms (2 miles) from Marienplatz.

How to get there? Unlike the other castles, the worst way to get here is by car. It's easy to get lost, and finding a parking space is next to impossible. Munich has such good public transport that there is no need for driving to the Palace.

Opening times -

Please note!! - The interior of Nymphenburg is closed for lunch between 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm.

What is there to see? - In the early hours of August 25th, 1845, Ludwig was born at Nymphenburg. The room in which he was born has been restored to it's appearance in that year. This room is located at the far end of the South Pavilion - in the government guide book, it's room no. 20. (I recommend buying this guide book. I found it brilliant when visiting the palace.)

The other rooms in Nymphenburg are glorious, and one can see the world of a small European Court in the 18th century. It was the summer palace of the Wittelsbach family, begun 1664 it was constantly added to, especially in the 18th century. Highlights include the Great Hall, built 1756, and the "Gallery of Beauties", comissioned by King Ludwig I (Ludwig II's grandfather).

In the grounds of Nymphenburg there are a number of enchanting garden pavilions, and these can be seen as the prototypes for Ludwig's pavilions at Linderhof.. One of these, the Amalienburg, was the inspiration for Ludwig's fascination with the rococo style, which ultimately produced Linderhof itself. Amalienburg is opened the same hours as the palace, ie. closed for lunch between 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm.

The Marstallmuseum, located in the former stables of the Palace, was one of the wonderful surprises of my visit to Nymphenburg. Here you can view Ludwig's coaches and sleighs, as well as models for coaches never built, and the uniforms and livery worn by his entourage while on a midnight sleigh-ride. Most of the collection in the museum is pre-Ludwig, but even these coaches and sleighs are interesting to see. It's a glimpse at a previous world.

The whole Nymphenburg experience is filled with delight. As it was the Royal Family's Summer Palace, it is lighthearted and beautiful. The gardens are a wonder, filled with fountains, statues and pavilions, as well as sweeping vistas over the flower-beds with the Palace behind. A photographer's dream!

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