Munich is a city of historical wonder and magnificent beauty! It is the third largest city in Germany, but number one in my heart. The city is full of old churches, interesting museums, large parks, rivers (for swimming), lush gardens, delicious German food, and beer gardens. Unlike Berlin, Munich as not bombed during the war so the city still has its original historical charm.
For such a historical city, you might think that there might be a lack of a youthful presence. Yet, this was contrary to my experience. I found that there were more college-aged students that are out and about; compared to Berlin.
Exploring Munich will allow you have a different perspective German culture. Berlin is a modernized city so if you are looking for a more authentic and cultural experience, Munich is the right place. The city has countless landmarks and fun excursion to offer travelers! Here are a few places that I would recommend visiting.
Marienplatz
Take a tour of Marienplatz! This square at Munich’s central core and has been so for over 800 years. The undeniable focal point of the square is no doubt, the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). The front of the Hall is a sight to behold, so much so, that the Glockenspiel tower attracts millions of tourists a year.
There are countless things to see here, you might spend a whole two days just in this area. Visit Saint Peter’s Church, St. Michael’s Church, Frauenkirche, and the city’s famous beer hall, the Hofbräuhaus. Beer lovers, this might just be heaven!
Visit Saint Peter’s Church
Saint Peter’s Church is Munich’s oldest parish church. It’s beautiful architecture dates all the way back to the six centuries. For a mild climb of about 299 steps, you can see lovely views of the city from the tower. “When it’s a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps! Admission is €2 EUR ($2.25 USD).”
Grab a cold one at the Hofbräuhaus
Calling all beer enthusiasts!! Munich’s Hofbräuhaus is the world’s most famous beer hall and brings in millions of beer lovers each year. In 1607, Hofbräuhaus was constructed and was used as a brewery. Due to expansion, the brewery itself was relocated to a new place outside of the city.
Today you can enjoy a warm pretzel, comforting German meal, and sweet deserts along with your pint-sized beer. Can someone start a tab please!? People from all over the world travel to the Hofbräuhaus by the thousands for a yearly beer extravaganza call Octoberfest.
Shop at the Viktualienmarkt
This market is in the center of the Munich and it is an excellent selection fresh fruit and vegetables, food stores, floral shops, souvenirs, and more. This is not just a tourist trap market, it’s a popular spot for the locals to shop as well. Some stalls sell very expensive items, while others are traveling college students dream!
Shop at Kaufingerstrasse
This is a bustling area is great for all shopping needs. This pedestrian friendly area extends for several blocks between Marienplatz and Karlsplatz. There are wide variety of different shops to tickle anyone’s fancy. Independent boutiques, designer stores, and large-scale department store, they have it all. Once you have shop until you dropped, drop into one of the excellent restaurant, bar, cafe, or beer garden to regain your strength. The area is very safe, so don’t hesitate to wander down the side alleys to find those gem-like shops!
Swim at Eisbach in Central Park.
Grab your swimsuit! There’s a surf park in the middle of Munich!
This is the Eisbach, a small channel of the Isar River that runs through Munich’s big, central park. During the summer people of all ages come to play swim, float, and surf it the cooling waters of the water. These river surfers have been drawn to this river since the 1970’s, but it wasn’t until 2010 that it was actually legal to do so.
Even during the winter months, you can see surfers in their wet suits riding the ice-cold waves. If the water is not appealing to you, take a seat on the green lawn that makes up Central Park and people watch, play a game, draw, or have a romantic picnic.
The Wayward Explorer 