9 brilliant reasons to visit Munich

With its cosmopolitan city life, Alpine tradition, laid-back cafe culture and world-famous beer halls, Munich encapsulates the best of Bavaria. 

The compact city centre is easy to navigate and perfect for short breaks. Take a stroll and catch a glimpse of Munich’s royal heritage, as well as world-class galleries and museums.

When you want to get somewhere fast, this city’s public transport system delivers. Its population of 1.5 million is well served by a well-connected network of U-Bahn, S-Bahn, bus and tram lines. Meanwhile, die-hard cyclists can rent a bike to sightsee on wheels.

1. Footprints of the past

Get a snapshot of Munich’s rich history at Marienplatz, the main square in the city for over 800 years. One look at the varied architecture demonstrates just how ancient this city is.

History in motion: See the New City Hall’s Glockenspiel come to life at 11am, 12pm or 5pm. With the help of 43 bells and 32 life-sized figurines, it re-enacts two 16th century stories.

2. Run away with the circus

Looking for a show-stopping experience? Head to Schuhbecks Teatro. Enjoy a top-class meal and watch a cabaret-cum-circus unfold before your eyes on a 360-degree stage. With silk-draped walls and Swarovski chandeliers overhead, this is an opulent treat.

Smart tip: Save up to €30 on your ticket when you book on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday.

3. Breath of fresh air

Munich is a lush city in its own right, but real Alpine paradise is just an hour or two out of the metropolis. Explore picturesque Bavarian villages, incredible sights and a more relaxed pace of life outside the city.

Sky high: Soak in jaw-dropping views when you hop in a cable car and climb Zugspitze, the highest mountain in the country.

4. Happy birthday Munich

Balloons at the ready – Munich is turning 860 years old this year. So if you’re visiting during the 16 and 17 June, start celebrating Stadtgründungsfest. Enjoy the festive spirit at this massive family-friendly street party.

Birthday treat: What’s a party without cake? Celebrate Munich’s milestone birthday with one of the best strudels in the city from Café Luitpold.

A post shared by cafeluitpold (@cafeluitpold) on Jan 17, 2017 at 7:37am PST

5. Make room in your suitcase

Munich has everything a diehard shopper could want. Head to Maximilianstrasse or Theatinerstrasse for luxury shops. Kaufingerstrasse is all about the high street, while Sendlinger Strasse is the place to be for unique boutiques and antique curios.

Stylish souvenirs: Go to Weißglut Concept Store to pick up super cool homeware, stationery and jewellery.

A post shared by WEISSGLUT CONCEPT STORE (@weissglut_concept_store) on Jun 20, 2017 at 10:22am PDT

6. Raise a glass

Don’t wait until Oktoberfest to enjoy a beer in Munich. The city is full of beer halls and beer gardens, from the 500-year-old Hofbraeuhaus to the picturesque Waldwirtschaft.

Learn more: Based in the city centre, Hofbräu München gives you the inside scoop on the beer they’ve been brewing since the 16th century.

7. Beautiful game revealed

FC Bayern Munich is the most successful team in German history and are well-known worldwide. Take a guided tour of the Allianz Arena and see where magic is made, from the main stand to the dressing room.

Suite stay: Football fans can watch Bayern Munich matches from the comfort of their bed. The new Marriott Courtyard Suite overlooks the Allianz Arena pitch. Definitely a room with a view!

8. Burst of colour

A trip to Munich isn’t complete without checking out its impressive contemporary art galleries. Galerie Sabine Knust displays big-name international artists, while Galerie Jo van de Loo specialises in young local artists.

DIY masterpiece: Choose from a dazzling array of art supplies in Schachinger Kunstlerbedarf.

A post shared by Galerie Sabine Knust (@galeriesabineknust) on Apr 5, 2018 at 2:45am PDT

9. Complex history

Munich has had its share of dark historical episodes, and there are lots of museums and memorials throughout the city where you can learn more.

Walk through time: Discover Munich’s chequered past with an expert tour guide, including Third Reich sites around the city and the Dachau Concentration Camp just outside.

Fancy exploring Munich for yourself? Find great value flights to Munich.

Need some travel inspiration? Check out these incredible all-American road trips, read our guide to 48 hours in Bordeaux, or find out why Seattle should be next on your travel bucket list!