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Nestled in the southern state of Bavaria, Munich has an identity that’s all its own. Sure, there’s plenty of beer and bratwurst to go round, but Munich has a much more Italian feel than Berlin, Düsseldorf and Hamburg – and it’s no wonder, as Italy’s just a couple of hours drive away.
Fancy a long weekend in Munich? Here’s our essential guide to this most Mediterranean of German cities.
First, head to Marienplatz to see the Neues Rathaus – New Town Hall – which is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Its Gothic facade is captivating, but its Glockenspiel is what draws the crowds. Every day at 11am, watch as the Glockenspiel’s statues and bells come to life to tell a tale from local history: in summer, there are also shows at noon and 5pm.
Just a short walk away from Marienplatz is the Frauenkirche, whose two dome-shaped spires are an iconic part of the city’s skyline. First built in the 15th century, this church was bombed in World War Two but was lovingly recreated in the post-war period.
For a slice of local history with a beer on the side, visit the Hofbrauhaus. Probably the world’s most famous beer hall, it dates back to the 1600s and its ballroom is famous for being the site of the first meeting of the Nazi Party in 1920. Or if you’re craving a dose of European Art, the Alte Pinakothek is renowned for its excellent collection of paintings by the Old Masters.
Elsewhere the BMW-Welt and Museum is a car-lover’s dream come true: a museum/showroom dedicated to BMW vehicles. And to rest your legs after a long day of sightseeing, the lush English Garden – one of Europe’s biggest parks – offers a beautiful, serene place to relax in the city.
The city’s excellent transport network means whatever neighbourhood you choose to stay in you can easily get around.
If you like to be in the heart of the action, look for a hotel in the Altstadt – there’s a good range of affordable hotels alongside more expensive options.
Munich is a beer-drinker’s paradise. To truly experience the city’s favourite tipple at its best, visit in October for Oktoberfest, the historic festival which involves a whole lot of drinking and very little else. There’s no shortage of traditional beer halls where you can try famous local brews like Paulaner, Löwenbräu and Augustiner. But the city’s also got a vibrant cafe and bar culture too, and it’s just as easy to get a coffee or cocktail to drink outside on a hot summer’s day as a stein of beer.
But depending on what you’re after, some seasons are better than others. If you want to catch Munich in full swing, Oktoberfest is the best time of year to go – the city is still warm enough to explore and it’s a great time to see Munich’s vibrant history and culture in action.
If you love Christmas, don’t miss the famous German Christmas markets that take place in the month before, from late November right up until Christmas eve.
Spring on the other hand is a perfect time if you want reliable weather and plenty of daylight for exploring – you’ll be able to wander on foot comfortably and have ample time to get out of the city and discover more of Bavaria.
