Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Munich
089 / 1.38 MILLION / 310 SQ KM
Includes »
Why Go?
The natural habitat of well-heeled power dressers and lederhosen-clad thigh-slappers,
Mediterranean-style street cafes and Mitteleuropa beer halls, high-brow art and high-tech
industry, Germany's second city is a flourishing success story that revels in its own contra-
dictions. If you're looking for Alpine clichés, they're all here, but the Bavarian metropolis
sure has many an unexpected card down its dirndl.
Statistics show Munich is enticing more visitors than ever, especially in summer and
during Oktoberfest. Munich's walkable centre retains a small-town air but holds some
world-class sights, especially its art galleries and museums. Throw in a king's ransom of
royal Bavarian heritage, an entire suburb of Olympic legacy and a kitbag of dark tourism
and you can see why it's such a favourite among those who seek out the past, but like to hit
the town once they're done.
When To Go
Stark Bier Zeit, in February and March, is the time to sup strong ale local monks once
brewed for Lent. Temperatures climb high in summer, so this is the best season to escape to
the lakes south of Munich. October and November are perfect for an amble in the English
Garden as its trees fire off an autumnal salute. During Advent, central Marienplatz fills
