The Müller'sche Volksbad - Munich's jewel of bathing culture

The Müller public baths were built at a time when public baths were a rare commodity and running water was scarce in private households. The engineer Karl Müller, who donated the baths to the city of Munich, therefore had a clear purpose in mind: he wanted to create a bath that was also accessible to the city's less affluent citizens.

History and architecture: a bath like a work of art

Architect Carl Hocheder designed the public baths in an unmistakable Art Nouveau style that combines both playful and representative elements. Hocheder was inspired by the ancient thermal baths of the Roman Empire and created a building that at first glance is reminiscent of a mixture of Roman bathhouses, oriental hammams and sacred buildings. Throughout the building, you will find characteristic Art Nouveau elements such as floral ornaments, ornate railings and colourful mosaics, which give the rooms an almost sacred feel.

The interior is richly decorated: Wall paintings, intricate stucco work and baroque details create an atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The design of the swimming halls - with high ceilings, round arches and artistically designed windows - is evidence of the elaborate architecture that was intended to offer bathers a feeling of luxury and relaxation even back then.

The basement of the building still houses the historic baths and showers, which were important for the personal hygiene of Munich's population in the early years, at a time when running water in the home was a rarity. Particularly curious: until 1978 there was even a dog bath with its own "dog hairdresser", which made the bath a special attraction.

Swimming like in royal times

Müller'sche Volksbad has two swimming pools that cater to the different needs of its guests. The ladies' pool is smaller with a length of 18 metres, but is heated to a pleasant 30 degrees and equipped with massage jets and wooden cabins - perfect for relaxing hours in the water. The men's pool, on the other hand, has a sporty design, measures 31 metres and has a slightly cooler water temperature of 27 degrees. Aqua fitness and rhythmic water gymnastics classes are also held here, which are suitable for all age groups.

Roman-Irish sweat bath and sauna enjoyment

The wellness area of the Volksbad includes a special highlight: the Roman-Irish sweat bath. With an open-air courtyard, steam baths, warm and hot air rooms and a Finnish sauna with coloured light effects, this area offers you an extraordinary combination of relaxation and style. Themed sauna evenings are organised regularly, immersing you in a very special atmosphere.

Behind the scenes of the Volksbad

Anyone interested in the history of the building can take part in the monthly guided tours, which take place on the last Friday of every month. If you book in advance, you will have the opportunity to experience the Volksbad and its architecture up close. Another fun fact for film fans: the Volksbad was used as a film location for the 1977 cult horror film Suspiria, giving the bathing experience a cinematic touch.

Relaxation and enjoyment next to the Volksbad

A visit to the Volksbad is followed by a culinary detour. In summer, the Muffat beer garden, located right next to the Volksbad, invites you to linger. With 400 seats, a weather-protected awning and a direct location on the Isar cycle path, it is an ideal place for a refreshment. In addition to classic beer garden cuisine, Mediterranean and vegetarian dishes are also served, accompanied by draught beer. Designed to be family-friendly, a sandpit awaits younger guests, while a public playground nearby provides additional entertainment.

All year round, you can fortify yourself at the Wirtshaus in der Au, just a seven-minute walk from the Volksbad. The rustic Bavarian inn is known for its fresh, authentic cuisine and traditional atmosphere. It has been welcoming guests with a hearty "Servus in der Au!" since 1901 and offers delicious Paulaner beer specialities and a menu that combines Bavarian classics with family hospitality.

How to get to Müller'sches Volksbad

The Volksbad is easy to reach by public transport. Tram 17 stops directly at the Deutsches Museum, which is only a few minutes' walk away, and tram 16 and StadtBus 132 stop at the Isartor stop. The Isartor S-Bahn station (S1, S2, S3, S4, S6, S7, S8) is also just a short walk away.