One of the top destinations in Europe is the Bavarian capital. Some people think of it as Oktoberfest destination but there’s so much more than that. In fact, it’s a sophisticated spot with some amazing areas to hang out and strong history.

From my perspective, there’s 7 things that are great to experience when you’re there. Of course, it’s never enough time and this is a short list just to get a flavour of this outstanding destination. Here we go.

1. Marienplatz

It’s also called the St Mary’s Square. This is the central square in the heart of the old town of Munich (Altstadt). The epicentre of social activity today and throughout history. This is undoubtedly the best place to start with lots of things to discover while you walk. Obviously the first thing that will draw your attention will be the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) as it’s a 300-foot-long Gothic building displaying a façade with hundreds of statues and straight after you’ll notice in the centre of the old town the famous Mariensäule (column of St Mary). Walk slow, take photos and taste some traditional Bavarian food.

Neues Rathaus
Neues Rathaus

2. St Peter’s Church

This emblematic Roman Catholic church is located in the heart of the city. It’s also known as Alter Peter (Old Pete). If you want to have a panoramic view of Munich, this is perhaps one of the best places. However, there’s no lift to climb the tower and it’s around 300 narrow steps. Keep this in mind if you’re not super fit. Oh, it’s also €3.00 for adults.

Marienplatz
Walking from Marienplatz to Alter Peter.

3. Englische Garten

A large public park in the heart of Munich. This should be in your green-to-do while you’re there. Beautiful urban park offering lots of activities. In fact, you can even surf here!

Englische Garten
Englische Garten. Surfing area.

4. Viktualienmarkt

This is a very popular market for fresh food and delicatessen. It has over 100 stalls and shops offering a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, dairy and meat. There’s also spices, sweets, wine and tea. Have fun.

Viktualienmarkt
Viktualienmarkt

5. Odeonsplatz

A very large square in central Munich you cannot miss either. The top attraction is the Feldherrnhalle, commissioned by King Ludwig I of Bavaria. There’s also the impressive Theatinerkirche (Theatiner Church of St Cajetan). Odeonsplatz it’s an interesting place to relax after a walk in the city as it has a spectacular scenery.

Theatinerkirche
Theatinerkirche

6. Hofbräuhaus

This is probably the most famous beer hall in the world and also the largest in Munich. It was built almost 500 years ago and it’s owned by the Bavarian Government. It’s also said that Adolf Hitler held the first meeting of his party here in 1920. You can enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal such as white sausage, pretzel dumplings, roasted pork and sauerkraut. As a vegetarian I must confess I struggled. So, I ate spätzle (type of pasta) and a veggie flammkuchen (looks like a flat pizza but it’s a bit different because it’s thin, crispy, creamy sauce and toppings such as slices of fried onion). Beers are massive. They serve in these giant 1-litre glasses. You’ve got to be a fast drinker, otherwise the taste is not great 😉

Hofbrauhaus
Hofbräuhaus

7. Don’t Forget To Cycle!

Close to 20% of the traffic is bicycle related! Cycling in Munich is truly a fun activity so you’ll be able to explore much more than the usual suspect places. You can reach places like the Lake Starnberg and do a nice loop or perhaps the M-Wasserweg. Your choice!

Cycling in Munich
Very close to the Technical University of Munich.

When is your next trip to Munich?