Cooling Off in Munich: Where You Can Bathe in Fountains During Heatwaves
Date of Publication: August 14, 2026
Last Updated: August 15, 2026
Applies to: All Munich residents and visitors seeking refreshment
For weeks, summer heat has firmly gripped Munich. As temperatures rise, many Munich residents are drawn to lakes or the Isar river. However, some city fountains also offer a welcome cool-down and practically invite you to jump in. But not everywhere is permitted – the Department of Urban Planning and Building Regulation clarifies the rules.
Which Fountains Are Allowed for Bathing?
According to the Department of Urban Planning and Building Regulation of the State Capital Munich, a special highlight is the artwork “Spaces between Trees & People” by Jeppe Hein in the Pasing district. Entering this fountain is explicitly permitted – and not only popular with the youngest. The fountains at Sendlinger-Tor-Platz, Stachus, and Nordhaideplatz are also suitable for cooling off, according to the department.
- “Spaces between Trees & People” by Jeppe Hein (Pasing)
- Fountain at Sendlinger-Tor-Platz
- Fountain at Stachus
- Fountain at Nordhaideplatz
These locations are designed for public interaction and provide a safe way to beat the heat.
Why Are Many Fountains Off-Limits?
The situation is different for the majority of Munich’s approximately 200 fountains. Many of them date from another era and are even listed as historical monuments. The Department of Urban Planning and Building Regulation states that it is intensively committed to preserving this historical building fabric.
As an example, the authority mentions the Wittelsbacher Fountain – one of the city’s most beautiful fountain complexes, built in 1895. These ornamental fountains were simply not built to serve as bathing areas. Entering these fountains can cause damage to their delicate historical structures and water systems.
Alternatives for Water Fun
If you are looking for suitable water adventures with children, you will find plenty of options at Munich’s numerous water playgrounds. These playgrounds are specifically designed for children to play in the water safely and freely, offering a great alternative to historical fountains.
Stay Informed: Munich District Newsletters
tz.de is now even more local: In a total of six district newsletters, we inform you weekly about current topics from the districts of the Isar metropolis. Do you want exciting news from your district directly via email? This is now possible. These newsletters are available:
- The “Muc West” newsletter: For Neuhausen-Nymphenburg, Laim, Pasing-Obermenzing, Moosach, Allach-Untermenzing, and Aubing-Lochhausen-Langwied. Click here to register.
- The “Munich East” newsletter: For Bogenhausen, Berg am Laim, Trudering-Riem, and Ramersdorf-Perlach. Click here to register.
- The “Muc Southwest” newsletter: For Sendling, Sendling-Westpark, Thalkirchen-Obersendling-Forstenried-Fürstenried-Solln, and Hadern. Click here to register.
- The “Munich City” newsletter: For Altstadt-Lehel, Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, Maxvorstadt, and Schwanthalerhöhe. Click here to register.
- The “Munich Southeast” newsletter: For Au-Haidhausen, Obergiesing-Fasangarten, and Untergiesing-Harlaching. Click here to register.
- The “Muc North” newsletter: For Schwabing-West, Milbertshofen-Am Hart, Schwabing-Freimann, and Feldmoching-Hasenbergl. Click here to register.
Contact and Further Information
For more detailed information regarding specific fountains or water attractions, please contact the Department of Urban Planning and Building Regulation.
- Department of Urban Planning and Building Regulation Munich: Information on public fountains and water features.
- Local District Offices: For information specific to your district.
Remember to always check local signage and regulations before entering any public water feature to ensure your safety and respect for public property.
