Although it is a well-known fact that Munich is the home of the annual Oktoberfest, there is so much more to the city than one of the world’s most beloved festivals. The capital of Bavaria is home to a host of historic buildings from Gothic churches to modern towers, museums and art galleries, lovely parks. Here are just a few highlights of Munich, Germany.
Begin your Munich trip at the Marienplatz.
The main square is considered the heart of the city and provides many amazing sightseeing opportunities. Head to the square to take a few snaps of the postcard-worthy Neues Rathaus, or the New Town Hall. Keep an eye out for the Glockenspiel and wait for it to chime at noon. If you’re visiting during Christmas, the Marienplatz comes to life with markets and food stalls.
Fuel up with a platter of weisswurst and wash it down with a pint of local beer.
Germans drink beer like it’s water so it’s completely normal to have a glass or two for breakfast or any time of the day, for that matter. As for the sausages, it’s customary to consume them before noon when they are still freshly made. You can find them anywhere in the city but Gaststätte Grossmarkt is said to serve the finest weisswurst. Don’t miss out on all the other amazing food from pastries and hot chocolate to a duck-dumpling-cabbage.
Observe the architecture in Munich.
The architecture in Munich is simply stunning and requires closer observation. Fun fact: Buildings in Munich are not allowed to surpass the height of the Frauenkirche towers. This church lies in the city center and is one of the most popular landmarks in Munich. Don’t miss the opulence of the Residenz, the former royal palace, which is open for tours all year long.
Peruse the vast art collections on display.
Check out the family of galleries right in the heart of the city: Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek, or the Pinakothek der Moderne. You’ll have your pick of galleries between the three sites, each showcasing important works of art from different time periods, with works from Rembrandt and Picasso to emerging artists from this century. If you get tired of looking at paintings, visit the scientific installations instead at the Deutsches Museum. It’s the largest science and tech museum in the world and can make for an educational day trip.
Play the most popular sport in the country.
How do Germans burn off all the sausage and beer, you ask? Through playing soccer, of course! It’s the most popular sport in the country and Munich is the best city to visit for fans of the sport. It houses the Allianz Arena, home of the country’s most successful soccer team, Bayern Munich. It can seat 75,000 people, but even then, tickets to matches often sell out. The Allianz Arena is built with a full color-changing exterior that is always a spectacular sight on match days. Locals take so much pride in their sport, and it shows, in brilliant colors. After all the walking and the festivities, you might want to take a relaxing stroll in the Englischer Garten or English Garden. You’ll find a Japanese teahouse, surfers in the steam, temples, the Chinese tower, and luscious green meadows, perfect for walking, running, or just lounging around.
There’s so much more to see in Munich but these are good places to start. If you’re traveling further to Hamburg, check out the highlights from Girl on the Go.
For more on Munich, visit Munich Travel Tourism
– Guest post written by Abigail Amber
