Munich

Old town charms and contemporary culture in the home of the original Oktoberfest

Bavaria’s capital packs a serious punch. This city-break powerhouse has palaces to marvel at, and so many museums you’ll almost wish for a rainy day to escape inside. Meanwhile, spring and summer call for strolls in the expansive Englischer Garten that punctuates the cityscape. With galleries filled with old masters and Lederhosen-clad waiters serving steins in the beer halls, all set against a contemporary cosmopolitan spirit, this is a city that reinvents itself – time and again.

Things to do

LANDMARKS
There are two sides to Munich. First up, delve into the city’s history from Altstadt, pausing in Marienplatz at midday to watch the charming fanfare of the Glockenspiel. Then dip into Müller’sches Volksbad, the century-old lido. Journey north of Altstadt to see palatial Schloss Nymphenburg, walking in the footsteps of Bavarian royalty. And leave an afternoon free to see the equally regal Residenz Museum, with its rococo interiors and Wittelsbach riches. 

CULTURE
Contemporary culture also plays out across Munich’s must-visit museums. Brandhorst’s eye-catching architecture gives a clue to the modern masterpieces it houses – with Pinakothek der Moderne home to a renowned design museum. Meanwhile silver (and small) screen buffs will enjoy going behind the scenes at Bavaria Filmstadt, famous as the Das Boot backlot. 

FESTIVALS
Each year since 1810, vast tents rise up, taps are polished, and brass bands strike up for the legendary Oktoberfest. The world’s largest folk festival is an epic celebration featuring showmen, the sound of cracking whips and steins of (only) Munich-brewed bier. Beyond the beer, roll up for family-friendly vintage funfair rides at Oide Wiesn, spanning 3.5 hectares of pure nostalgia – and serving bottomless fizzy drinks.

Top Tip from SLH

Take a deep breath before tackling the 300 (ish) steps up to ‘Old Peter’. Not only does it lay claim to being part of the city’s oldest church, but this tower promises soaring views over Munich – as well as a mid-climb glimpse of the ancient, enigmatically named bells in the belfry.