Munich Is Best Known As The City Of The Oktoberfest.
But it Munich so much more…
I’m not the big city type, preferring the small towns and the scenic beauty of the rural areas of Bavaria.
But, I Absolutely Love München! It is one of Germany's prettiest and most festive cities. I guess you can call it a big city, by my standards anyway.
It is home to about 1.4 million people and is the capital of Bavaria, but it doesn’t feel like a typical big city.
In Munich, you will find history mixed in with the modern.
Nostalgic folksy-ness mixed in with hip and avant-garde.
The city is full of monuments and museums… castles, cathedrals and parks.
It is a city of art and culture, and Germany's largest university town.
It is a city with memories, both good and bad. Yet when I look back the history that took place there, I am even more in awe of the Muncheners’ ability to acknowledge the past and move on - enjoying the city and everything it has to offer.
It is a great city to have fun and enjoy the relaxed lifestyle, the friendly ambiance, the nightlife, sights, and events.
Beautiful Sites and Great Nightlife:
When visiting for the first time, a great place to start is a day at the Altstadt.
In and Around the Altstadt You Will Find:
- Marienplatz – St. Mary’s Square. Named after the gilded statue of the Virgin Mary that has watched over the square for over three centuries.
- Neues Rathaus – New Town Hall. This massive building is a good example of the highly ornate neo-Gothic style, much loved by King Ludwig II. It houses the Glockenspiel.
- Frauenkirche – Church of Our Lady. Construction dates back to 1468 and is probably the best known symbol of the city.
- Residenz – Royal Palace. The original palace of the Wittlesbach dynasty. It was opened to the public in 1920 and now ranks among the finest palace museums in Europe.
- Altes Rathaus – Old Town Hall. Munich’s first town hall was built in 1474. It is used mainly for official functions.
- Alter Hof – Old Palace. The palace is the original medieval palace of the Wittelsbachs, the ruling dynasty since 1180. It is now used mainly for local government offices.
- Viktualienmarkt – Victuals Market. The open air farmer’s market has lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as meats, cheese, fish and German and International specialties. There is also a beer garden where you can sit and enjoy your snack and the bier of the day.
- Hofbräuhaus -Bavaria's most famous brewery founded in 1589. This place is the best alternative if you miss the Oktoberfest.
- Peterskirche – St. Peter’s Church. The oldest and smallest church dates back to the 11th century and has been restored in various architectural styles.
These are a few of the highlights of the Altstadt in Munich. There is much more to see, but if you have limited time, these are a good choice.
