Munich Travel Information

Munich Information

Lying 50 kilometres north of the Bavarian Alps, Munich not so much nestles into the Alps more than it majestically spreads out from them. Surrounded by bewitching countryside, the third largest city in Germany prides itself on being one of Germany’s most cosmopolitan cities that has so much to offer.

Munich’s ever growing population including a large influx of immigrants and tourists alike has ensured that Munich is not a city that has stood still. It has grown with the times to become a stylish blend of the old and the new. In this way Munich both comforts and surprises.

At the inner centre of Munich is Marienplatz. This square is a great place to start exploring the very core of the old town of Munich. The Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) sits over Marienplatz and is across the square from the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), its glockenspiel rings out over Munich daily whilst 32 mechanical figures play out scenes from Munich’s history. Adding to this atmosphere are Munich’s famous Christmas markets, these markets appear in the three weeks prior to Christmas and offer all that is required for Christmas celebrations.

Whilst in the city centre travellers can take in historical churches, buildings and traditional markets. Many of the churches are a history buff’s dream showing fabulous examples of rococo, gothic and baroque architecture. A quick walk away from Marienplatz will take you to the Hofbräuhaus am Platzl, one of the oldest and best known beer halls in Munich.

Radiating out from the city centre are four grand avenues, along these you will find many of Munich’s museums and galleries. Munich’s most recent and older history is worth exploring through these museums as is its fine arts collections.

The beauty of Munich is that so much of it reflects that of a city of great history with a people who enjoy a great life style and are thrilled to share it. Short day trips outside of the city centre will treat the visitor to beautiful vistas of lakes and mountains, picture perfect villages and famously extravagant castles, such as Neuschwantstein. It will also take the visitor to reminders of more recent history. Located within Bavaria are places such as Hitler’s retreat, the Eagles Nest and a mere 16 kilometres from Munich’s inner centre is the Dachau Concentration Camp. A visit to Dachau is a sombre and sobering experience. But it is to Munich’s credit that it is carefully maintained and that it somehow balances a visit to an old and vibrant city that is always looking forward.