Hofgarten is a public Renaissance-style garden beside Munich’s Residenz, between Odeonsplatz and the Englischer Garten. Its straight gravel paths, clipped hedges and flower beds meet at the Temple of Diana, an octagonal pavilion with mosaics inside and open arcades around it. Pause beneath the arcades to see their historic frescoes, or take a shaded path past the fountains. The former court garden is a calm place for a walk or picnic, and its edge gives cyclists a route toward the Englischer Garten.
A court garden opened to the city
Hofgarten lies beside the Munich Residenz, the former residence of Bavarian rulers, close to Odeonsplatz. It was laid out in the early 17th century as a garden for the court. The garden was opened to the public in 1780 and is now a public park.
Its design follows the ordered geometry of an Italian Renaissance garden. Gravel paths cross the grounds in straight lines, with the central pavilion at their meeting point. Flower beds, trimmed hedges and fountains sit within the formal layout. The Residenz borders the garden, while the Bavarian State Chancellery stands along its eastern side.
The Temple of Diana and the arcades
The central pavilion, known as the Temple of Diana, dates to 1615. It has an octagonal form, and eight paths radiate out from it across the garden. Inside, mosaics add detail to the pavilion. Above it is a statue called Tellus Bavarica, shown with symbols associated with salt, grain and beer.
The surrounding arcades give the garden a sheltered route for walking. Their historic frescoes are worth a closer look as you pass. From the open arches, you can take in the symmetry of the paths and flower beds. Fountains stand at the garden’s corners, adding water to the formal design.
A pause between the Residenz and Englischer Garten
The garden is compact enough to visit during a walk between the Residenz and the Englischer Garten. Benches and shaded paths make it a place to sit or take a break from nearby streets. The paths also suit a slower circuit, with views changing as you move from the pavilion toward the arcades and the buildings around the edge.
People sometimes play music at the pavilion, and summer evenings can bring activities to the garden. In autumn, the trees add seasonal color along the paths. Cyclists can use the outer edge as a route toward the Englischer Garten. For a quieter visit, arrive early; the pavilion can draw a crowd later in the day.
Häufige Fragen
Is Hofgarten free to visit?
Yes. It is a public garden, and the supplied information states that access is free.
What is the main sight in Hofgarten?
The central Temple of Diana is the garden’s main landmark. It dates to 1615 and has mosaics inside.
Can you cycle through Hofgarten?
Cyclists can ride around the garden’s edge, which provides a route toward the Englischer Garten.
When is a good time to visit Hofgarten?
Early morning is a good choice for a quieter walk.
