Munich is One in a Million

Known for its museums, architecture and annual Oktoberfest beer celebration, Munich is an exciting place to travel for a city break or a longer stay!

 While Berlin is the capital of the country of Germany, Munich is the capital of the Southeastern German state of Bavaria.

The Residenz Museum

Its surroundings are incredibly scenic with the Bavarian Alps to the South and the Isar River running through the city. The winters are cold, and the summers are pleasantly warm, but regardless of the weather there is plenty to do year-round; from Christmas markets to having a swim in the Isar River on a hot day. As traditional as the city may appear, it is well-known for its modernization and fun energy, while still holding itself to a standard of efficiency.

Here’s a Pro-Tip: The currency used is the Euro and although cards are accepted at major chains, carry cash with you as some locally-owned restaurants and stores prefer cash.

If you are travelling to Munich from another European country via train or bus, you will arrive at Munich Hauptbahnhof, the city’s main station. If you are arriving by flight, the main international Munich airport is Flughafen München Franz Josef Strauß (MUC). To travel from the airport to the city centre via train, bus or taxi. All of these options will take around 50 minutes of travel time. Once in the city, I highly recommend utilizing public transportation. It is very well developed and consists of an underground tram, bus and above-ground railway.

Here are the best Munich attractions to reach via public transportation:

Marienplatz – This square has been at the centre of the city since the 12^th century. Although it is best known for the Christmas Markets, the square is full of life any season of the year. While here, be sure to check out the unmissable Neues Rathaus town hall it all of its gothic architectural glory.

Munich Residenz – What began as a castle in 1385 has been expanded over generations of rulers into what is now a grand palace complex open to visitors. Inside you can explore 130 rooms and 10 courtyards hosting museums, concerts and exhibits of Bavaria’s history.

Neues Rathaus translates to “New Town Hall”

Parks and Gardens – Snow or shine, there is plenty to do and see in the parks and gardens of Munich. Here are my favourites:

These gardens are a walk in the park!

• Englischer Garten (English Garden) – A gorgeous 18^th century, a 370-hectare park which includes a couple of beer gardens, a Japanese teahouse and the surfable, man-made Eisbach River. There is much to discover here!
• The Botanical Gardens – Located next to the Nymphenburg Palace, these tranquil gardens are home to nearly 19,600 species and subspecies.

• Olympiapark – Named after the 1972 Munich Olympics, this park is filled with activities such as skiing, zip-lining and water sports.

Here’s another Pro-Tip: For those adrenaline junkies, why not climb the Olympic Stadium and zip-line across? It’s certainly not for the faint of heart!

Book your trip to Munich with JourneyHero!!

Alte Pinakothek – One of the oldest galleries in the world with the works of Old European Masters dating between the 14^th to 18^th centuries. Collections from some of the most prestigious names such as Leonardo da Vinci, Hans Baldung Grien and Rembrandt, just to name a few.

Day Trips – Munich is in close proximity to many great sites and cities such as Salzburg, Regensburg, and Neuschwanstein – the castle that Disney used as inspiration for Cinderella’s castle! You can use a Bayern Ticket for access to different trains and buses that can transport you to these magical places.

Bavarian cuisine is a new level of comfort food and generally consists of meat, root vegetables and flour. A Brotzeit is a traditional snack, such as pretzels and Obatzda, commonly had between breakfast and lunch while some of the most popular traditional main dishes include Weißwurst, Schnitzel and Knödel. Today, Munich is a very modern and multicultural city. It has plenty of restaurants from all over the world, including vegetarian-friendly options. With so many incredible options to choose from, here are my favourites:

Here’s a final Pro-Tip: Can’t decide on where to eat? Head over to Viktualienmarkt. This famous foodie market is an amazing place to sample a variety of fresh local dishes and produce.

Beer is a major piece of German culture. Thriving historical breweries, beer halls and, of course, the world-famous 200-year-old beer festival, Oktoberfest keep the traditions alive year after year.

Oktoberfest hosts more than six million people from around the world each year!

Although the city is long-established, the energy is youthful and vibrant, especially after sunset! Nightlife is second nature to Munich, so to make sure you experience the best of it, here are my recommendations:

 Hofbräuhaus – Although it is a major tourist attraction, it is definitely worth a visit. Originally built in 1589 as part of a brewery (which has since relocated), this magnificent beer hall plays by Oktoberfest rules: you must be seated to be served, so get ready to make some friends!

• Tian – Just off of the Viktualienmarkt, this high-end vegetarian restaurant offers a creative menu full of local, seasonal and organic produce.

Here are some of my lodging suggestions for your stay in Munich:

• Cortiina – Walking distance to Viktualienmarkt, a stylish stay with an amazing on-site wine bar and restaurant.
• Flushing Meadows – Nearby many thriving restaurants and bars in the Glockenbach district (one of my favourite areas of Munich with super cool bars and music) this chic hotel has a fabulous rooftop bar and spacious rooms.
• Hotel Laimer Hof – This neo-Renaissance villa was built in 1886 and has charmed visitors ever since. Conveniently located near the Nymphenburg Palace and the Königlicher Hirschgarten (Europe’s largest beer garden), you’ll feel right at home in no time.

Visiting Munich always leaves me with a smile on my face. The punctual yet laid-back energy keeps me coming back for more…or wait, maybe it’s the beer doing that!

Love,

Isabella