A First Timer's Guide to Munich

Marienplatz: Begin your Munich adventure at Marienplatz, the city's vibrant central square with the majestic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall). Join one of the many free walking tours departing from the square, diving into the rich history of the city. Don't miss the Glockenspiel (clock tower) show at 11am, noon and 5pm. For panoramic views, go across the square to St Peter's Church for the best 360-degree view of both Neues Rathaus and Frauenkirche, the twin domed cathedral. (Note that the stairs are a bit cramped and steep). Afterward, wander through Odeonsplatz, a historic square with the Feldherrnhalle monument (Field Marshalls’ Hall) and site of the famous 1923 Beer Hall Putsch, Hitler’s failed coup d’etat.

English Garden: Take a stroll or rent a bike in one of the largest urban parks in the world. Don't miss watching the surfers catch waves on the Eisbach river. Then grab a beer and pretzel at the Chinese Tower Beer Garden, Chinesischer Turm.

Residenz Museum: Step into the opulent world of Bavarian royalty at Residenz Museum, a magnificent palace of the Wittlebach's dynasty. Don't skip the Hall of Antiquities!

Nymphenburg Palace: One of Europe's largest and most beautiful palaces. This was Wittelbach's summer residence.

Olympic Park: The site of the 1972 Olympics. Visit BMW World, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the future of mobility, and best of all, it's free! If you're at Olympic Park on a Friday or Saturday, check out the flea market. You may be able to find some beer steins for bargain prices like I did!

Isar River: If you're visiting during the summer, have a picnic lunch along the river like the locals for a break from all the sight seeing.

Herzogstrasse: One of my favorite places to shop with lots of cute boutiques. Take the u-bahn to Hohenzollerplatz and make your way along this street until you get to the next stop, Munchner Freiheit.

Day Trips

Dachau Concentration Camp: A short 25-minute train ride from Central Station, this solemn day trip offers a sobering insight into history.

Neuschwanstein Castle: A Bavarian landmark, this is the fairytale realm of Mad King Ludwig, and the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Remember to secure online reservations in advance to ensure entry.

Salzburg: Explore the picturesque streets of this charming town. Visit Mozart's birthplace and retrace the footsteps of the Von Trapp family in the locations where the beloved Sound of Music was filmed.

Hofbräuhaus: Even though there are quite a few of these iconic beer halls around the world, the original is a must-see, which was also the site of Hitler's first speech to the Nazi party.

Viktualienmarkt: Wander through this fun outdoor market right by Marienplatz. My favorites are Sababa for falafels and schwarmas and Schmalznudel-Cafe Frischut for bavarian style donuts!

Augustiner-Keller: A local fave. Check out this beer hall for traditional brews with spacious outdoor seating, especially if there is a football/soccer game going on.

Cafe Daddy Longlegs: A cozy spot for coffee and acai bowls to start your day or for a relaxing break.

Man vs Machine: Trendy and hip cafe with expertly brewed coffee - a must-visit destination for coffee enthusiasts.

Blue Nile: If you want an alternative to German food, check out this Ethiopian place with its flavorful dishes served in the traditional way (no utensils!).

Iveria: Experience the flavors of Georgia with must-try dishes such as the chinkali (dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese bread with a runny egg center) paired with a glass of Georgian wine.