Nymphenburg Palace, Munich, Germany

We did not realize it at the time, but when we visited the Nymphenburg Palace and Park, we began a trail following Bavarian King Ludwig II. More on 'mad' Kind Ludwig in future posts. 

Located near Munich, this palace began taking shape in the 1660s and served as a royal summer home. Almost 200 years later, in 1845, Ludwig II was born here to Crown Prince Maximilian and his wife Marie, a Prussian princess.

Above is the view from the front of the main palace. 

Top Tip: If you can read up a bit in a guidebook or online before arriving at your sight of the day, you will be better prepared. Knowing a little beforehand helps to enjoy it more fully. 

Above is the front entrance to Nymphenburg Palace.

The Great Hall features many frescoes, including the one above on the ceiling . . . 

and this fresco, one of many situated above doors around the Great Hall.

View of the Great Hall in its original condition from 1758.

Portrait of Marie, mother of King Ludwig II. 

The bedroom where Ludwig II was born.

The 'backyard' of Nymphenburg Palace. Sometimes Nymphenburg is called the 'Versailles of Bavaria,' but it is actually larger. 

The park behind the palace is beautiful and huge, featuring gardens, statuary, and water features. 

Looking back at the palace. We were blessed with beautiful weather on a mid-August day.

Bonus Tip: Some of the best options for eating local food is at museum cafes. We found this to be the case both at Dachau and here at Nymphenburg, where we ate outside in a shady patio just off the wide open park. A nice way to conclude our visit to this lovely palace.