Munich is the capital and most populous city of Bavaria, the second most populous German state. With a population of around 1.5 million, it is the third-largest city in Germany, after Berlin and Hamburg, and thus the largest which does not constitute its own state. The city’s metropolitan region is home to 6 million people. Strategically situated on the Isar River in the southeastern corner of the country, it is one of the country’s larger cities and serves as its economic and cultural centre.
Munich is one of the most prosperous and fastest growing cities in Germany. It is a top-ranked destination for migration and expatriate location in livability rankings. Munich hosts more than 530,000 people of foreign background, making up 37.7% of the city’s population. And 31.1% of all residents are foreign nationals including many expatriates. Munich nowadays hosts more than 130 nationalities with migrants originating from 206 countries across the globe. Munich has been ranked as an alpha world city –and as world’s most liveable city in 2015.
According to Monocle’s Liveability Survey, it was ranked first out of 257 cities around the globe in terms of quality of life, professional opportunity, health care and environment.
5 Fun Things to do in Munich:
If you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation, look no further than Munich! This German city has something for everyone, from world-renowned museums to delicious beer gardens. Here are five of the best things to do in Munich:
A Walking Tour of Munich’s City Center:
From the Hofbräuhaus to the Englischer Garten, there is something for everyone in this Bavarian gem. One of the best ways to see Munich is by taking a walking tour of the city center. This way, you can really take in all the sights and sounds that the city has to offer. Here is a walking tour of some of the best that Munich has to offer.
Start your journey at Marienplatz, the heart of Munich. This central square is home to the New Town Hall, as well as the Glockenspiel, a must-see for any visitor to Munich. From Marienplatz, walk towards Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s famous food market. This market is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and people watch. After you’ve had your fill, continue on to Odeonsplatz. This large square is home to several important landmarks, including the Feldherrnhalle and Theatinerkirche. As you walk around Odeonsplatz, take some time to soak in the history and architecture of this beautiful square.
Continuing on from Odeonsplatz, you will come to Maximilianstraße, one of Munich’s most fashionable streets. This street is lined with high-end shops and restaurants. Take some time to window shop or stop into one of the many cafes for a cup of coffee or tea. When you’re ready to move on, head towards Hofgarten. This large park is a great place to take a break from all the sightseeing and enjoy some fresh air. Relax on one of the benches or take a stroll through the gardens before heading back into the city center.
By taking a walking tour, you can really appreciate all that this amazing city has to offer visitors. So put on your comfortable shoes and explore all that Munich has to offer!
Visit one of Munich’s many museums:
One of the best ways is to visit one of the city’s many museums. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, there’s a museum in Munich that’s perfect for you. Here are just a few of the many museums that you can explore on your next visit to Munich.
The Deutsches Museum is one of the largest and most popular museums in Munich. It’s dedicated to the history of science and technology, and it features exhibits on everything from ancient Egyptian technology to modern space exploration. With over 28,000 items on display, there’s something for everyone at the Deutsches Museum.
If you’re interested in art, then you’ll want to visit the Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen. This museum houses an impressive collection of paintings from the 15th to the 18th centuries. You’ll find works by masters such as Albrecht Dürer, Peter Paul Rubens, and Rembrandt van Rijn. The Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen is one of the best art museums in Germany, and it’s definitely worth a visit.
For something a little different, check out the Münchner Stadtmuseum. This museum tells the story of Munich through its collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents. You’ll learn about the city’s history, culture, and people as you explore the Münchner Stadtmuseum. If you want to get to know Munich a little better, this is the perfect place to start.
Sample the local cuisine:
When you travel, one of the best ways to get to know a new place is through its food. Munich is no exception! This Bavarian city has a lot to offer in terms of traditional German cuisine. Here are a few must-try dishes the next time you’re in town.
Weißwurst – A type of sausage made from veal and pork, Weißwurst is a breakfast food typically served with sweet mustard and a pretzel. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but it’s definitely worth trying!
Leberkäse – Leberkäse is a spreadable meatloaf made from pork and beef. It’s often served on bread or with potatoes and vegetables.
Knödel – Knödel are a type of dumpling typically made from potatoes, bread, or semolina flour. They can be boiled, baked, or fried, and are often served as a side dish.
Spätzle – Spätzle are egg noodles that are popular in southern Germany. They can be served as a side dish or as a main course with gravy or cheese sauce.
Sauerbraten – Sauerbraten is a type of pot roast that is marinated in vinegar for several days before being cooked slowly over low heat. It’s usually served with dumplings or potato pancakes.
Apfelstrudel – Apfelstrudel is a type of pastry made from thinly rolled dough filled with apples and cinnamon sugar, then baked until crispy and golden brown. It’s often served with vanilla sauce or ice cream.
Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte – Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, or Black Forest cake, is a type of chocolate cake made with layers of chocolate spongecake, cherries, and whipped cream. It originates from the Black Forest region of southwestern Germany but can now be found all over the country!
Pretzels – Pretzels are another Bavarian specialty that can be found all over Munich (and indeed all over Germany). These twisted breads are traditionally dipped in salt water before being baked until crispy and golden brown. Sweet or savory toppings can be added topretzels as well, making them the perfect snack for any time of day.
Beer – Of course, no list of German foods would be complete without mentioning beer! Munich is home to some of the oldest breweries in the world, so make sure to sample some of the local brews while you’re in town. Prost!
Gummy Bears – Did you know that gummy bears were invented by Hans Riegel Sr., a candy maker from Bonn? Today, Haribo manufactures over 100 million gummy bears every day in factories all over the worldbut it all started with Hans Riegel Sr.’s little candy shop in Bonn! If you’re looking for something sweet to take home with you from your trip to Germany, gummy bears are the way to go.
From Weißwurst sausage to Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte cake, there’s something for everyone to enjoy—even those with a sweet tooth. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start sampling some of the delicious local cuisine! Prost!
Stroll in one of Munich’s many parks:
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors in Munich, then you’ll want to check out one of the city’s many parks. The English Garden, for example, is a large public park that offers plenty of space to stroll, sit, and relax. In addition, the park is home to several monuments, including a statue of King Ludwig II and an obelisk commemorating the Bavarian soldiers who died in World War I.
The English Garden is one of Munich’s most popular parks. Located in the city center, the park covers an area of nearly 3 square kilometers (1.2 square miles). Within the park are several monuments, including a statue of King Ludwig II and an obelisk commemorating the Bavarian soldiers who died in World War I. In addition, the park is home to several restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, then you’ll want to check out one of Munich’s many parks. The English Garden, for example, is a large public park that offers plenty of space to stroll, sit, and relax. In addition, the park is home to several monuments, including a statue of King Ludwig II and an obelisk commemorating the Bavarian soldiers who died in World War I. So whether you’re looking to take a break from sightseeing or just want to enjoy some time outdoors, be sure to add the English Garden to your list of places to visit in Munich.
Join in the fun at Oktoberfest:
Ready to tap into your inner Bavarian? Then put on your lederhosen and dirndl, because it’s time for Oktoberfest! This world-famous beer festival takes place every year in Munich, Germany, and attracts millions of visitors from all over the globe. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event.
When is Oktoberfest?
This year’s Oktoberfest will take place from September 21st to October 6th.
What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is a 16-day folk festival that celebrates Bavarian culture, food, and of course, beer! The festival originated in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The festivities were so popular that they became an annual tradition, and today Oktoberfest is the largest fair in the world, attracting over six million visitors each year.
What goes on at Oktoberfest?
The main attraction at Oktoberfest is the beer tents, which are set up by Munich’s six major breweries. These tents are massive—they can seat up to 10,000 people at a time—and each has its own unique atmosphere. In addition to beer, you’ll find traditional Bavarian food like roast chicken, pretzels, and dumplings being served in the tents. And of course, there’s also plenty of live music and dancing!
How do I get tickets?
Tickets to Oktoberfest are free, but you’ll need to reserve a spot in one of the tents if you want to drink beer. To do this, contact one of the breweries directly or visit their website. You can also try your luck on the day of by showing up early and hoping for a spot at one of the communal tables.
I don’t speak German. Will I still be able to enjoy myself?
Absolutely! While it’s certainly helpful to know some German phrases—like “Prost!” (Cheers!)—you’ll find that most people at Oktoberfest are very friendly and happy to help out with any language barriers you may have.
5 Unusual Things to do in Munich:
Munich is a city full of culture, history, and Bavarian traditions. It is also a city full of surprises. Here are 5 unusual things to do in Munich that will help you experience the city in a whole new way.
Visit the Buddhist Temple:
If you’re looking for something a little bit different to do during your time in Munich, why not pay a visit to the Buddhist Temple? This beautiful temple is located in the heart of the city and is open to visitors of all religions. Here, you can learn about the history and culture of Buddhism, as well as take part in some of the traditional ceremonies and rituals.
The Buddhist Temple in Munich is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Located in the heart of the city, this beautiful temple is open to visitors of all religions. Here, you can learn about the history and culture of Buddhism, as well as take part in some of the traditional ceremonies and rituals. The temple was built in 2000 and is currently home to over 200 monks and nuns. If you’re interested in learning more about this ancient religion, then a visit to the Buddhist Temple is a must!
When you first enter the temple, you’ll be greeted by a large statue of Buddha. This statue is over 3 meters tall and is made from bronze. It’s said that if you rub his belly, you’ll be blessed with good luck. After taking a look at the statue, you can explore the rest of the temple grounds. Be sure to check out the beautiful gardens, which are full of flowers and trees. You can also light a candle at the altar or say a prayer at one of the many shrines throughout the temple.
Climb the Olympiaberg:
The Olympiaberg is a small mountain located in the northwestern part of Munich. It is one of the many places where you can go for an unusual things to do in Munich. The Olympiaberg was once the site of the Bavarian Olympic Games in 1972. Today, it is a popular spot for hiking and has a few different trails that you can take to the top.
The best way to get to the Olympiaberg is by taking the S-Bahn to the Westfriedhof station. From there, it is about a 10-minute walk to the base of the mountain. There are several different trails that you can take to the top, but the easiest and most popular route is the paved path that starts at the west side of the mountain. This trail is well marked and takes you past several informational signs along the way.
The hike to the top of the Olympiaberg takes about 30 minutes if you take a leisurely pace. At the top, there are several benches where you can sit and enjoy the views of Munich. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps.
If you are looking for something more challenging, you can continue on from the top of the Olympiaberg and hike up to one of its two peaks. The first peak is called Wank and can be reached by following signs for Trail 3. This trail is more difficult than Trail 1 and will take about 45 minutes to reach Wank peak. The second peak is called Kleiner Kranzberg and can be reached by taking Trail 5. This trail is even more difficult than Trail 3 and will take about 1 hour to reach Kleiner Kranzberg peak.
See the Jumbo Jet:
What do you do when you have a spare afternoon in Munich? If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, why not go and see the Jumbo Jet? This decommissioned Boeing 747 has been turned into a hotel, bar, and restaurant, and is a must-see for any aviation enthusiast.
The Jumbo Jet is located at Munich Airport, and is easily accessible by public transport. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to explore the different levels of the plane, including the cockpit and first class cabin. The upper deck has been turned into a bar, where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the views of the airport. If you get peckish, there’s also a restaurant on board serving traditional Bavarian cuisine. And if you really want to make a night of it, you can even stay overnight in one of the hotel rooms!
Eat Fried Grasshoppers:
Yes, you read that right. Fried grasshoppers are a thing, and you can try them in Munich! If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary to do while you’re in town, why not stop by one of the many stands that sell these fried critters? Trust us, they’re delicious!
What exactly are fried grasshoppers?
Fried grasshoppers are, well, exactly what they sound like! Grasshoppers that have been deep-fried and are served as a snack. They’re usually seasoned with salt or chili powder and can be found at street stalls all over Munich.
Are they really tasty?
We know that fried grasshoppers might not sound appetizing to everyone, but we promise they’re delicious! The grasshoppers are crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Plus, the seasoning gives them a bit of a kick.
Where can I find them?
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try some fried grasshoppers for yourself, head to one of the many stalls that sell them all around Munich. You’ll find them near tourist attractions, in markets, and even at some restaurants.
Drink Beer from a Boot:
If you’re looking for an unusual way to drink beer, look no further than Munich! In this Bavarian city, you can drink beer from a boot-shaped glass. That’s right, a boot-shaped glass. This unique drinking experience is a must-do for any beer lover visiting Munich.
The History of Drinking Beer from a Boot in Munich
The tradition of drinking beer from a boot in Munich dates back to the early 1900s. Legend has it that Bavarian Prince Ludwig I was so taken with the city’s Oktoberfest celebrations that he decided to hold his own festival in Munich. The prince’s festival was such a success that it became an annual event, and today it is known as Oktoberfest.
As the story goes, at one of these early Oktoberfest celebrations, a waitress dropped a glass boot filled with beer. The prince found the whole thing so amusing that he ordered all of the waitresses to serve beer in glass boots from then on. And so the tradition was born!
Today, you can find glass boots of all sizes at Oktoberfest and other beer festivals in Munich. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try to drink from a one-liter glass boot! Just be careful it’s easy to spill when you’re trying to drink from something that big.
Conclusion
Munich is a city full of culture, history, and some incredible food. Whether you’re looking for traditional Bavarian cuisine or something a little more international, you’ll be able to find it here.
The city is also home to a number of world-class museums, including the Bavarian National Museum and the Deutsches Museum. And if you’re looking for something a little more unusual, Munich has that too.
Visit the English Garden to see the Surfers’ Pond, or take a tour of the Munich Security Conference Center. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find it in Munich.
