The Munich Residenz is a sprawling former royal palace in the heart of the city, where the Wittelsbach rulers of Bavaria lived and governed for centuries. Today, its museum opens a succession of state rooms, chapels and courtyards to visitors, tracing the changing tastes and ambitions of the dynasty from the Renaissance onwards.
Among the highlights is the Antiquarium, a vast Renaissance hall with a painted vaulted ceiling, while the Treasury displays royal jewels, goldsmiths’ work and religious objects. The palace’s chapels add another dimension to a complex built for both court ceremony and private devotion. Allow time to look beyond the grandest rooms: the collections are extensive, and the details can be as rewarding as the architecture.
The Cuvilliés Theatre, within the Residenz complex, is a Rococo jewel designed by François de Cuvilliés. Its red-and-gold auditorium preserves lavish carved decoration from the original theatre, where Mozart’s Idomeneo premiered in 1781; the interior was later reassembled after wartime destruction. The theatre still hosts performances, though sightseeing hours can be limited.
The Residenz is an easy walk from Marienplatz and close to Odeonsplatz U-Bahn station. Set aside at least three hours for the palace museum and Treasury, and check theatre opening times before visiting, as they can differ from the museum’s. Combination tickets may offer better value if you plan to see several parts of the complex.