Schwabing

The Basics

At the turn of the 20th century, Schwabing was an avant-garde enclave favored by writers, artists, and left-field thinkers. That reputation endures today, and the neighborhood is often seen as a trend-conscious and hip counterpoint to Munich’s traditional heart. Local attractions include the English Garden, site of the popular Chinese Tower beer garden, the stately Siegestor (Victory Gate), and examples of art nouveau architecture. The neighborhood’s youthful spirit is bolstered by several university campuses and major shopping streets like Leopoldstrasse and Hohenzollernstrasse lined with hipster-packed cafes.

Guided tours provide an even more immersive way to see Schwabing. Join a hop-on hop-off bus tour for a quick and easy overview of the area, or explore with a private guide to get up close and personal with the sights.

Things to Know Before You Go

• For one of the area’s most unusual attractions, head to the Eisbachwelle; this standing river wave in the English Garden attracts surfers year round.

• Beyond classic German fare, Schwabing is host to a range of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and other Asian eateries.

• Thanks to its green spaces and residential feel, Schwabing offers a tranquil escape from central Munich’s bustle—particularly during busy times like Oktoberfest.

How to Get There

Located north of Munich’s center, expansive Schwabing can easily be reached by taxi or bike. The area is also served by U-Bahn (subway) lines U2, U3, U6, and U8, as well as the 12, 23, 27, 28, and N27 trams and numerous local bus lines.

When to Get There

By day, stroll along Schwabing’s shopping streets and linger over a pilsner in the English Garden. By night, make the most of ample bar and restaurant offerings. The neighborhood is at its most lively during the winter holidays, thanks to its annual Christmas Fair.

Where to Discover Schwabing’s Bohemian Side

Schwabing was once home to creatives like Paul Klee, Wassily Kandinsky, and Rainer Maria Rilke, and traces of its artistic past can still be seen today. The Lenbachhaus Art Gallery displays works by the avant-garde Blue Rider (Der Blau Reiter) Group. Head to the Suresnes Palace on Werneckstrasse to see where Paul Klee kept his atelier, and drop by historical cabarets like the Münchner Lach- und Schießgesellschaft.