Viktualienmarkt, Munich

Last Updated on 10/10/2017

After arriving in Munich the night before, we woke up and headed out to Viktualienmarkt (Victuals Market) near Marienplatz. We didn’t have the easiest arrival the night before as our hotel was CLOSED when we arrived… and it wasn’t even 8 pm! No “Sorry, had to run there’s a key around the corner in a lock box” note. Just dark, locked and closed.

Our only choice was to go the hotel around the corner. I was glad they could accommodate us (even if it was twice as much) and I wouldn’t let the experience sour the magic of Munich during Christmas time. Determined to find breakfast, stocking stuffers and glühwein we made a beeline for Viktualienmarkt first thing in the morning.  

Viktualienmarkt or Victuals Market is a charming little grid of food stalls, restaurants and biergartens near Marienplatz, the main square in Munich. This area is extra special during the Christmas season as it’s was filled with stands selling wreathes, ornaments and seasonal treats. Aren’t these hedgehogs adorable?

Over 140 stalls stock Viktualienmarkt year round with an incredible selection of fresh fruit and vegetables, meats and cheeses, flowers, spices and more. My favorite stalls were crowded with barrels of marinated olives and hummus loaded high above the brim. Mounds of mysterious cheese dips and spreads filled display cases and reminded me of gelaterias in Rome. I had no idea what was in most of them, but my only regret was not getting more.  I was overwhelmed with all the choices and anxiously just pointed at one and said, “Danke” when it was my turn.

Even on a brisk December day, Viktualienmarket was filled with locals gathering up supplies for their weekend meals… and perhaps a few special packages to put under the Christmas tree.

This little square of a foodie’s heaven is not be missed when visiting Munich, whether it’s Christmas or not.

Opening hours and how to arrive.