Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s daily food market and an important event venue, located adjacent to the historic city center.
The name of the marketplace, which was opened in 1807, comes from Latin, ‘victualia‘, translating as ‘supplies‘.
Originally, in fact, the marketplace was simply called ‘green markets‘…
…but the title ‘Viktualienmarkt’ came into use in the 19th century, when it was popular (among the educated middle classes) to latinize German terms.
Historically, before ‘viktualien market’, the main marketplace in Munich (from the city’s founding in 1158) had been Marienplatz.
PHOTO: The marketplace, as seen from Biergarten-Viktualienmarkt‘s (roof) terrace.
Not long after opening to public in 1807, due to its popularity, the marketplace needed an expansion, which was done from 1823-1829.
Later expansions included….
- a wholesale market, ‘Grossmarkthalle‘, to the Blumenstrasse side of marketplace (1852),
- Bankmetzgerhalle (a hall for butchers),
- pavilions for bakeries and fisheries, and
- new sections of stalls for poultry and venison.
The current size of the marketplace is roughly from 1890, covering an area of about 22,000 m², with 140 stalls and shops.
Many of the stalls have gourmet products, including fruits and vegetables, venison and fowl, eggs, butter, honey, fish, meat, sausages, herbs, spices, delicatessens, as well as wine and tea…
…but the marketplace is also a good place to find flowers, plants, and crafts.
The Viktualien marketplace hours are:
- Monday to Friday, 10am – 6pm,
- Saturdays 10am – 3pm, and
- closed on Sundays & public holidays.
As you plan your visit here, its good to remember that some stalls close by 6pm, before the official closing time.
The market square houses several traditional events:
- “Brauertag” (Brewers’ Day, on even numbered years)
- “Gärtnertag” (Gardeners’ Day, on the 1st Tuesday in August)
- “Sommerfest” (Summer Festival, on the 1st Saturday in August)
- “Tanz der Marktfrauen” (Dance of the Market Women, part of the Münchner Fasching, the city’s carnival)
Viktualienmarkt
Address: 80331 Munich, Germany
Official website: Muenchen.de/viktualienmarkt
In addition to Viktualien market, there are many other markets in Munich. For example, there are around 40 weekly markets, including specialty markets for organically grown products.