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Fünf Höfe

Fünf Höfe Munich Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction: Fünf Höfe Munich’s History and Cultural Significance

Fünf Höfe, or “Five Courtyards,” is a celebrated urban complex in Munich’s historic Kreuzviertel district. This architectural gem exemplifies the city’s ability to harmonize tradition and modernity, transforming a once-insular banking district into a vibrant public space. Conceived by renowned Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, Fünf Höfe is distinguished by its interconnected courtyards, preserved historic façades, and contemporary design, attracting more than seven million visitors annually. It hosts over 60 boutiques, diverse dining venues, residential apartments, offices, and the acclaimed Kunsthalle München exhibition space, making it a cultural, commercial, and social centerpiece in Munich (Fünf Höfe History, Wikipedia, Kunsthalle München).

Introduction
Historical Evolution of Fünf Höfe
Architectural Features and Visitor Experience
- Courtyards and Passages
- Materiality and Light
Art and Cultural Integration
Practical Visitor Information
Urban Significance and Modernization
Notable Highlights
FAQ
Visuals and Media
Related Articles
Conclusion and Call to Action

Historical Evolution of Fünf Höfe

Origins and Urban Development

Fünf Höfe occupies a site steeped in Munich’s commercial history. The area, bounded by Marienplatz, Promenadeplatz, Salvatorplatz, and Theatinerstraße, was historically dominated by the Bayerische Hypotheken- und Wechselbank and Bayerische Vereinsbank. By the late 20th century, the need arose to revitalize this central block and open it to the public, integrating commerce, culture, and daily life (Fünf Höfe History).

Architectural Vision and Design Competition

In 1994, an international competition selected Herzog & de Meuron to lead the transformation. Their winning proposal emphasized transparency, accessibility, and the harmonious blending of historic and contemporary elements. The design fosters a microcosm of Munich’s urban landscape, with unique courtyards and passages that invite exploration (Wikipedia).

Construction Phases

Development was executed in two main phases:

First Phase (Completed 2001): Included Perusahof, Portiahof, Prannerhof, part of Salvatorpassage, and the Hypo-Kunsthalle. Herzog & de Meuron led the master plan and initial courtyard designs.
Second Phase (Completed 2003): Hilmer & Sattler und Albrecht designed the Salvatorstraße façade, and Ivano Gianola contributed Maffeihof and the southern Schäfflerhof extension (Wikipedia). In 2004, Union Investment Real Estate AG acquired the complex.

Architectural Features and Visitor Experience

Courtyards and Passages

Fünf Höfe consists of five main courtyards interconnected by passages, each with distinct character:

Salvatorpassage: Nearly 100 meters long, renowned for its lush vertical gardens (MCBW Magazine).
Viscardihof: Features a dynamic entrance and lively atmosphere.
Amirahof: A tranquil, tree-lined retreat.
Maffeihof and Schäfflerhof: Showcase the fusion of old and new, designed by Ivano Gianola (Wikipedia).

The passages are open 24/7, offering a rare continuous pedestrian experience (MCBW Magazine).

Materiality and Light

Herzog & de Meuron’s design employs glass, steel, and stone to foster transparency and lightness. Mirror effects and glass sequins enliven interiors, while natural daylight animates the spaces. The juxtaposition of contemporary materials with preserved historic façades roots the complex in Munich’s heritage (Fünf Höfe History).

Art and Cultural Integration

Art is integral to Fünf Höfe’s identity. Notably, Ólafur Elíasson’s ten-ton stainless steel “Sphere” sculpture is a striking focal point. The Kunsthalle München, with 3,200 m² of exhibition space, hosts world-class art shows and cultural events, including AfterworkKH evenings, tango nights, and collaborations with the Bavarian State Opera and Munich Film Festival (MCBW Magazine, Kunsthalle München, Lonely Planet).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Retail and Dining: Monday–Saturday, 10:00–20:00. Closed on Sundays (Lonely Planet).
Kunsthalle München: Daily 10:00–20:00; extended to 22:00 every third Wednesday (Kunsthalle München events).
Courtyards and Passages: Open 24/7.

Tickets and Admission

General Access: Free entry to all public areas, shops, and courtyards.
Kunsthalle München Exhibitions: Ticketed; prices vary by exhibition. Discounted rates available for youth, students, and people with disabilities. Tickets can be purchased online or onsite.

Accessibility

Barrier-Free: All public areas, including exhibition spaces and restrooms, are fully accessible.
Elevators and Ramps: Available throughout the complex.
Disabled Parking: Reserved spaces at Prannerstrasse 7 and Salvatorplatz 2 (Kunsthalle München accessibility).
Audio Guides: Free in English and German; bring headphones.

Getting There

Public Transport: U-Bahn and S-Bahn at Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz; tram lines 19 and 21; bus line 100.
By Car: Parking available at nearby garages, including Max-Joseph-Platz and Salvatorplatz.
Taxi and Coach: Taxi ranks at Promenadeplatz and Odeonsplatz; coach drop-off behind the National Theatre (Kunsthalle München information).

Nearby Attractions

Marienplatz and Neues Rathaus
Frauenkirche
Theatinerkirche
Residenz Palace
Viktualienmarkt

Guided Tours and Photography

Guided Tours: Available seasonally, focusing on architecture, history, and art. Book via the Kunsthalle München website.
Photography: Permitted in public courtyards; exhibition spaces may have restrictions.

Urban Significance and Modernization

Fünf Höfe is a model for sensitive city-center revitalization. It preserves historical elements while introducing modern, minimalist design—earning praise as a “Glitzerkabinett” (glittering chamber) in local media (MCBW Magazine). The complex successfully merges shopping, culture, and community, contributing to Munich’s reputation as a dynamic European metropolis.

Notable Highlights

Ólafur Elíasson’s “Sphere”: A stainless steel sculpture and popular meeting point.
Hanging Gardens: Patrick Blanc’s vertical greenery in the Salvatorpassage (MCBW Magazine).
Kunsthalle München: Munich’s leading private exhibition space.

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FAQ

Q: Is there an entrance fee for Fünf Höfe?
A: Entry to the courtyards and shops is free. Tickets are required only for exhibitions at Kunsthalle München.

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Most shops and restaurants operate 10:00–20:00, Monday–Saturday. Courtyards are open 24/7.

Q: Is the complex accessible?
A: Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps.

Q: Can I join a guided tour?
A: Yes, seasonal tours are available—check the Kunsthalle München website.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Paid parking is nearby at Max-Joseph-Platz and Salvatorplatz.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pets are permitted in public areas but not in shops or galleries.

Visuals and Media

Official images and virtual tours are available on the Fünf Höfe website, providing high-quality visuals and descriptive alt tags.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Fünf Höfe exemplifies Munich’s vibrant blend of history, architecture, art, and urban life. With free public access, cultural events, exclusive shopping, and gourmet dining, it is a must-see for anyone exploring Munich’s historical and modern highlights. Download the Audiala app for audio guides, event updates, and curated tips. Follow our social channels for the latest news and exclusive offers, and start planning your visit to Munich’s iconic Fünf Höfe today!