Munich murals: a guide to street art for the whole family
June 11, 2025
Munich, known as a pioneer of the German graffiti scene, offers a vibrant and diverse street art landscape that will delight the whole family. From the early 1980s, when the city was at the vanguard of the European graffiti scene, to today's impressive murals by world-renowned artists, the Bavarian capital has become a true paradise for street art lovers. Legal graffiti zones, museums and galleries, as well as numerous works by acclaimed artists such as BLU, ESCIF and Shepard Fairey, create a unique mosaic of urban artistic expression that appeals to both adults and the youngest explorers.
Ad
History and significance of Munich murals
Munich has a rich history associated with street art that dates back to the early 1980s. During this period, the city became one of Europe's graffiti centers, attracting artists from around the world. The 1990s cemented Munich's position as a mecca for graffiti artists, putting it on a par with New York. This pioneering role in the development of the German street art scene has left a lasting mark on the city's cultural DNA.
One of the most important places on the Munich street art map is the 'PAINT IT BLACK' mural by Shepard Fairey, also known as Obey. This impressive 15x13 meter work, located on the facade of a building at Landshuter Allee 54, was created in 2015. The mural addresses the influence of oil multinationals on global politics, and is a prime example of socially engaged street art. Fairey, creator of the famous 'Hope' poster with an image of Barack Obama, has created a work in Munich that prompts reflection on the relationship between government and business.
It's worth noting that Fairey's mural was created in cooperation with the local art association Positive Propaganda e.V., which regularly invites international street art artists to create large-scale works in inner-city areas of Munich. The organization plays a key role in shaping Munich's street art scene, combining art with social engagement.
Another notable work worth visiting is the mural at Hochbrückenstraße 6. This fascinating piece of street art is an excellent example of local style and aesthetics. Unlike many commercial murals, this one retains the authentic character and rawness typical of the early graffiti scene. It is the perfect place to show children what street art was like before it became a global cultural phenomenon.
Munich's street art scene stands out from other European cities thanks to its legal graffiti zones. These designated areas, where artists can legally create their works, have contributed to the development of urban art culture and allowed experimentation with different styles and techniques. This solution has not only benefited the city aesthetically, but has also created a space for intergenerational dialogue - parents can share their memories with their children from the days when graffiti was just beginning to gain popularity.
The most interesting murals and street art installations in Munich
Munich offers a remarkable variety of street art works that will delight both adults and children. One of the most intriguing is the 'Endless Staircase' at Ganghoferstraße 29A. This surreal installation, reminiscent of Escher's staircase, is a fascinating example of art in public space that combines elements of sculpture with optical illusion. Children will be delighted to explore this unusual construction, which seems to defy the laws of physics. The installation perfectly demonstrates how street art goes beyond traditional murals, entering the three-dimensional space of the city.
It is worth noting the differences between the various street art works in Munich. While 'Endless Staircase' is an interactive installation, Shepard Fairey's mural at Landshuter Allee 54 represents a more classic form of street art with an explicit socio-political message. In contrast, the mural at Hochbrückenstraße 6 has a more local, authentic character. This diversity makes exploring Munich street art a fascinating adventure for the whole family.
When visiting Munich, don't miss Dachauer Street, which is a veritable open-air mural gallery. It is here that you will find the Kunst-Labor-2 Museum and the Kreativquartier, where you can admire impressive works by international artists. A walk along this street is the perfect opportunity to show children how diverse street art can be, from abstract forms to realistic portraits and surreal scenery.
It is also interesting to note that in 2015, Italian artist BLU created a controversial mural in Munich depicting a figure worshipping an ATM machine and greeting it with a Nazi salute. The work, a reflection on the relationship between money and power, sparked a heated public debate, showing that street art can be not only a form of artistic expression, but also an important voice in social discourse.
For families with children, Munich's underpasses, which have been transformed into street art galleries, may be of particular interest. The Oskar-von-Miller Tunnel and the Unterfuhrung Friedensengel are home to works by artists such as Loomit and Inti. Exploring these underground galleries is great fun for children, who can discover art in an unusual setting.
Also worth mentioning is the Werksviertel district, which is part of the whiteBOX concept that aims to show the common roots of street art, hip-hop, graffiti and street dance. It's a place where street art meets other forms of cultural expression, creating a dynamic and inspiring space for artists and audiences of all ages.
How to discover Munich street art with children
Exploring Munich street art with children is a great opportunity to combine fun with art education. To make this adventure even more appealing, it's a good idea to plan an itinerary that includes a variety of works and allows children to experience different forms of street art. A good starting point might be Museum Brandhorst at Theresienstraße 35a. While not a typical street art gallery, this museum often hosts exhibitions related to contemporary art, including street art, which is a great introduction to the subject for the little ones.
After visiting the museum, take a walk toward Hochbrückenstraße 6, where one of Munich's signature murals is located. Then you can head to Landshuter Allee 54 to admire Shepard Fairey's impressive mural. This tour will allow children to see how different artists interpret urban space and use it as a canvas for their art.
For families with children, a visit to the 'Endless Staircase' installation is especially recommended. It's a place where art becomes an interactive experience, encouraging little ones to explore and play. Unlike traditional murals, which can only be viewed, this installation allows for physical engagement, which is extremely important for children who learn through experience.
After a busy day of artistic excitement, relax in the Englischer Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Although the park itself is not directly related to street art, it is the perfect place to relax and reflect on the works you have seen. For children, it will also be an opportunity to play freely outdoors after a day full of artistic discovery.
At the end of the day, visit the Sitzender Keiler (Sitting Boar) on Kaufingerstraße 2. This popular sculpture, while not an example of street art, is a distinctive landmark in the city center and is a favorite gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Children will appreciate the opportunity to touch the boar's nose, polished over the years, which according to local tradition brings good luck.
When planning a trip along the Munich street art trail, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind. First, the best time to explore the murals is during the day, when natural light allows you to fully appreciate the colors and details of the works. Second, it's a good idea to bring along a camera or smartphone so kids can document their favorite murals and installations. Third, it's a good idea to prepare a small guidebook with information about the artists and their works, adapted to the age of the children.
Munich also offers a variety of workshops and guided tours on street art that are tailored to families with children. Such organized activities can greatly enrich the experience of discovering street art, providing historical and artistic context that can be difficult to convey to children without professional support. Be sure to check out the offerings of the Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art (MUCA), which regularly organizes educational events for kids.
Similar articles
Ad