München

📌 About

Munich, the capital of Bavaria in southern Germany, is a city known for its rich culture, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality. Famous for its annual Oktoberfest celebration, Munich is a hub of Bavarian tradition and lively festivals. The city features iconic landmarks like the Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Frauenkirche, as well as world-class museums and art galleries. Surrounded by the scenic Alps, Munich combines urban sophistication with natural beauty, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures for visitors to enjoy.

🎭 Activities

Oktoberfest – September/October: Experience the world’s largest beer festival with traditional music, clothing, and a festive atmosphere. Enjoy authentic Bavarian dishes and the iconic beer from the region.

Frühlingsfest – April/May: This cozy folk festival features carnival rides, traditional music, and plenty of beer. Its smaller, more intimate atmosphere makes it a great alternative to Oktoberfest.

Tollwood Festival – June/July: This unique festival combines art, music, and sustainability with markets, workshops, and performances. It attracts visitors from all over the world with its special vibe.

Starkbierzeit – March: Taste the rich, strong spring beers served in Munich’s beer halls. This traditional beer festival is a must for beer lovers looking for something heavier.

Englischer Garten Surfing – Year-round: Watch surfers tackle the famous Eisbachwave in one of the largest urban parks in the world. The action attracts both tourists and locals who want to witness surfing in the park.

Christmas Markets – December: Visit the atmospheric Christmas markets in the city and discover handmade products and delicious treats. The warm mulled wine and festive cheer create a magical experience.

Königsplatz Classical Concerts – Summer months: Enjoy free outdoor concerts at the picturesque Königsplatz square. The combination of classical music and the historic setting makes it a special experience.

Auer Dult – May, July, October: This traditional annual fair offers everything from antiques and crafts to tasty food and music. One of Munich’s oldest markets, it provides a charming atmosphere.

Open-Air Cinema Olympiapark – July/August: Enjoy films under the stars in Olympiapark, one of Munich’s most iconic locations. It provides a unique atmosphere for film lovers in the summer months.

Kocherlball – July: Join this traditional dance party early in the morning and experience German folk dance culture. The Kocherlball attracts dance enthusiasts who spend the whole morning dancing waltzes and polkas.

Blutenburg Open-Air Poetry – June: Enjoy poetry and music at one of Munich’s most beautiful castle locations. The event offers a charming experience for literature and music fans.

Filmfest München – June/July: This large film festival provides a platform for new films and directors from all over the world. Visitors can attend premieres and directly interact with filmmakers.

🏛 Landmarks

Marienplatz: Historic square with the famous Glockenspiel of the Town Hall.

Englischer Garten: One of the largest urban parks in the world with peaceful nature.

Nymphenburg Palace: Stunning baroque palace with extensive gardens and fountains.

Olympiapark: Iconic park with architecture and views from the Olympic Tower.

Viktualienmarkt: Lively market with Bavarian specialties and local products.

Deutsches Museum: Largest museum of science and technology with interactive exhibitions.

🔹 Small Facts

Eisbach Surfers: Surfers on the Eisbachwave in the Englischer Garten can be watched for free year-round, offering a unique experience for visitors to the city.

Marienplatz Glockenspiel: The famous Glockenspiel in the Neues Rathaus plays a historical performance every day, which visitors can watch and listen to for free.

Englischer Garten Walks: The park offers miles of walking paths through peaceful nature that are free to enjoy for anyone who loves a tranquil stroll.

Olympiapark Access: Olympiapark is freely accessible and offers both locals and tourists a place to relax, exercise, or enjoy nature.

Maximilianstrasse Sights: Walk along this elegant street with luxury shops and beautiful historic buildings that are free to admire for any passerby.

Blutenburg Castle: The exterior of the fairy-tale Blutenburg Castle is free to visit, making it an ideal photo opportunity.

Friedensengel: This monument offers free views of the city from a panoramic platform accessible to everyone.

Isar Riverbank: Picnicking along the banks of the Isar is a popular activity with no cost, providing a great place to relax.

Staatliche Antikensammlungen: Some special days offer free access to the classical artworks and exhibitions in this museum.

Pinakotheken Free Evenings: On certain evenings, visitors can access selected collections in the Pinakotheken for free and enjoy art without paying.

Geschwister-Scholl-Platz: This square commemorates members of the White Rose resistance group and offers an educational visit that is free to those interested.

Street Art in Werksviertel: In this creative district, you can discover colorful artworks and graffiti for free that adorn the streets.

Asamkirche: This baroque church is free to enter for anyone wishing to admire its impressive decorations and architecture.

Public Gardens: Various public gardens, such as the Hofgarten, are free to visit for a peaceful stroll through the greenery.

Walking Routes along Schlosskanal: The free walking paths around Nymphenburg Palace provide a beautiful setting for a relaxing walk.

Stories

The Origin of Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest in Munich is globally known as the largest beer festival, but its humble beginnings can be traced back to 1810. On October 12 of that year, Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig I married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen, and the royal couple decided to celebrate this joyous occasion with a grand feast.

The Night of the Long Knives in Munich

The Night of the Long Knives (also known as “Nacht der langen Messer”) took place between June 30 and July 2, 1934, and remains one of the most violent and defining moments in the early history of the Nazi regime. This brutal purge targeted political opponents within the Nazi Party, carried out under the orders of Adolf Hitler.