For those who have no desire to stay out in the snow or go skiing and sledding in freezing temperatures, there is a warm alternative. The exhibition at the Botanical Garden allows visitors not only to immerse themselves in a tropical atmosphere but also to get an up-close look at the world of butterflies.
Once a year, visitors are given the opportunity to see these flying insects. The greenhouses serve as a home to numerous plants from tropical and subtropical regions, ensuring a pleasant warmth year-round. It is the perfect destination for those looking to briefly escape the winter chill.
Special Exhibition at the Botanical Garden
The exhibition is held every winter and will run until March 8. In the butterfly pavilions, visitors can observe the insects’ development from caterpillars into fully-formed butterflies. During the display, the butterflies fly freely throughout the space.
Anyone who has experienced this knows it is a magical feeling to be surrounded by hundreds of butterflies. With a bit of luck, the insects may even land on your hands or clothing. However, to protect the animals, catching or touching them is strictly prohibited.
How to See the Butterflies
According to the Botanical Garden administration, the insects originate from Costa Rica or the Philippines. They are raised on special farms and transported as pupae. The official website states: “Only a few days after arriving in the humid and hot climate of the greenhouse, they hatch and fly freely in the Aquatic Plants Pavilion.”
The Aquatic Plants Pavilion features another interesting attraction: one of the halls is home to numerous turtles from the nearby reptile rescue center. These abandoned or rescued turtles spend the remainder of their lives here.
For those who decide to stroll through the outdoor grounds after visiting the warm greenhouses, the entrance to the garden’s exterior is free during the winter period.
Nature lovers should not delay their visit: tickets are time-limited to prevent overcrowding in the small greenhouses. A booked time slot applies only to the butterfly pavilion; the other greenhouses can be explored at any time during opening hours.
Information and Access
Tickets for the special exhibition can be purchased online or at the box office. When buying online, you can book a specific time slot. This requirement also applies to children aged 4 to 11, even though their admission is free. Children under 4 do not require a time-slot ticket.
- Standard Ticket: €6.50
- Reduced Ticket: €4.50 (available for seniors, students, and teenagers aged 12 to 17)
During the winter season, the greenhouses are open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with last entry at 3:30 PM. The outdoor grounds are accessible until 4:30 PM.
The Botanical Garden has very few parking spaces. Those arriving by car are advised to park at Nymphenburg Palace and walk from there. The easiest way to reach the garden is by public transport: the “Botanischer Garten” stop is located directly in front of the entrance and is served by Tram 17 as well as Bus lines 143 and 180.
