Munich Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum)

The basics

This one-of-a-kind museum in the heart of the Old Town (“Altstadt”) contains the toy collection of Czech cartoonist, filmmaker, and writer—Ivan Steiger—and toys from worldwide, such as Russian dolls. The exhibits are spread across various old tower rooms, depicting what children’s playrooms have been like over the past 200 years. The third floor is a must-visit for Barbie fans, with around 100 Barbie dolls, including the first-ever Barbie from 1959.

Things to know before you go

• The museum is in a small tower that isn’t accessible to wheelchair users.

• Visitors can purchase memorable souvenirs during the trip, as there’s a shop with toys, catalogs, and 19th-century children’s books.

• The museum is best suited for older children, as younger children may not be too interested in learning about the history of toys.

How to get there

The Toy Museum is in an ideal location—on the main city square of Marienplatz in the historic Old Town Hall. To get there by public transport, get a U-Bahn (U3 or U6) or S-Bahn (all lines except #5) train to Marienplatz, roughly a 2-minute walk from the museum. Alternatively, you can get the #19 or #21 tram to Marienplatz (Theatinerstrasse) station.

When to get there

The museum is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon, and it’s busiest during the annual Oktoberfest festival, which runs from the end of September to early October. Another busy time is during the summer months (July–August), so come in the shoulder season, such as spring or late fall, to avoid the crowds.

Things to do near the Munich Toy Museum

A perfect location for a day of sightseeing, the Munich Toy Museum’s Old Town setting at Marienplatz means there is lots to discover nearby. Don’t miss a visit to Munich’s oldest church—St. Peter’s—and take a stroll to the nearby Frauenkirche too. For great food, beer, and atmosphere—the nearby Hofbrauhaus beer hall ticks all the boxes, and the Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art is a great pick for art lovers.