Munich, Germany
Munich, the vibrant capital of Bavaria, has been enchanting visitors for centuries with its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. From the majestic Nymphenburg Palace to the cozy beer gardens nestled in the heart of the city, every corner of Munich tells a story. Whether you're a 16-year-old eager to explore centuries of tradition, indulge in delicious pretzels and sausages, or snap the perfect Instagram shot in front of the iconic Marienplatz, Munich offers endless adventure. Here’s what you need to know before you step off the plane (or train) and immerse yourself in the charm of this legendary destination.
A Very Brief History
Munich has been a hub of culture, politics, and innovation for over 1,000 years. Originally founded as a Benedictine monastery, it grew into a medieval trading city and later became the capital of Bavaria. The city has witnessed royal dynasties, revolutions, and the rise of industrialization, each leaving its mark on Munich’s identity. From the grandeur of the Nymphenburg Palace to the beer culture of Oktoberfest, history is embedded in every corner of this vibrant city. But don’t worry, no history test required! Just enjoy the centuries of stories hidden behind every majestic square and cozy street.
Essential Languages
German: Naturally, German is the official language of Munich.
English: Many locals, especially in tourist areas, speak some English, but a few polite German phrases will be appreciated!
Other languages: Due to Munich’s international population and influx of visitors, you’ll also hear Italian, Turkish, Spanish, and various other languages in certain neighborhoods.
Taste of Munich
Munich is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from hearty Bavarian classics to world-renowned pastries. Whether you're savoring a pretzel at a beer garden or enjoying a traditional dish like Weisswurst at a local restaurant, the flavors of Munich are an experience of their own. Don’t forget to indulge in a slice of Apfelstrudel or a refreshing pint of beer—both are essential parts of the city's culinary culture.
Pretzel: We can't talk about Munich without mentioning the iconic pretzel. A warm, salty delight with a perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, doughy inside, the pretzel is a must-have for any Munich visit. Locals often enjoy theirs with a cold beer at a beer garden—just don’t expect it to be filled with anything (that’s more of a modern twist).
Weisswurst: A comforting Bavarian classic, this traditional sausage is made from minced veal and pork, flavored with parsley, lemon, and spices. It’s often served with mustard and freshly baked pretzels, best enjoyed before noon as locals traditionally do.
Schweinshaxe: This slow-roasted, crispy pork knuckle is a hearty favorite among Munich’s food lovers. Served with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, and a side of rich gravy, it’s perfect for a filling, satisfying meal after a day of sightseeing.
Pro Tip: If you want the best traditional bread and pastries, head to a "Bäckerei" (bakery) with a sign that says "Handwerklich"—this means they bake everything in-house, using time-honored methods, rather than just reheating pre-made dough.
Things to See and Do
Explore the English Garden: Forget the city’s architecture for a moment—Munich offers a sprawling natural oasis! The English Garden is one of the largest urban parks in the world, with tranquil walking paths, a lake, and even a spot where you can watch surfers on the Eisbach River. If you love nature mixed with city life, this is a must-see.
Stroll Through Glockenbachviertel: This vibrant neighborhood blends historic charm with modern creativity. Wander through its colorful streets, admire the trendy cafés and shops, and explore some of the city's best spots for food and art. It's also a great place to find cozy beer gardens.
Visit the Hofbräuhaus: No trip to Munich is complete without a visit to this legendary beer hall. Established in 1589, it's a true Munich institution where you can enjoy traditional Bavarian beer, hearty food, and live music. Take in the lively atmosphere and soak up centuries of history!
Fun Facts & Quirky Highlights
📜 Munich Has an Official "Beer Garden" Season – In Munich, there’s a designated beer garden season, which runs from mid-April to October. During this time, locals flock to the city’s outdoor beer gardens to enjoy cold beers, pretzels, and hearty Bavarian food. It’s a tradition that defines the city’s culture!
🗺️ The Glockenspiel Does More Than Just Tell Time – Every day at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., the famous Glockenspiel at Marienplatz puts on a mechanical show, reenacting historical events with life-sized figures. It's a quirky highlight of the city's medieval history!
🎭 Munich Has the Oldest Operating Puppet Theater in the World – The Münchner Marionettentheater, founded in 1903, still puts on performances with its stunningly intricate puppets. It’s a hidden gem for those interested in arts and culture.
🐻 Munich’s Symbol Is a Bear – The city’s name is derived from the Old High German word “Munichen,” meaning “by the monks.” However, it’s also been linked to the bear, with a bear on the city’s coat of arms and even a statue of a bear in the city's Tierpark Hellabrunn.
🍺 Oktoberfest Wasn’t Always About Beer – The first Oktoberfest in 1810 was a royal wedding celebration, and it included horse races. It wasn’t until later that beer became the central focus, and the event grew into the world’s largest beer festival!
Practical Tips
✔️ Say Grüß Gott! – Always greet locals with a friendly "Grüß Gott!" (or "Hallo" if you’re feeling casual). It’s considered polite and sets the tone for a warm interaction.
🚇 Take the U-Bahn Like a Local – The Munich U-Bahn (subway) is fast and reliable, but remember, don’t block the doors! Locals are quick to get on and off, so make sure you’re not in the way.
💳 Tap-to-Pay Works Best – Most places accept contactless payment, but American-style credit cards that require signatures can be a hassle. Consider using Apple Pay or a travel-friendly card with no foreign transaction fees.
🚻 Public Toilets Exist, But… – Public toilets aren’t always free in Munich. Look for facilities at cafés (if you order something), or head to public restrooms in larger stations or shopping centers, which may charge a small fee.
🍽️ Tipping Is Appreciated, But Not Required – Service charges are included in your bill, so tipping isn’t mandatory. However, it’s customary to leave a small tip—rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving around 5-10% for good service is always appreciated.
Making the Most of Your Stay
Wake Up Early (At Least Once!)
Munich is stunning at sunrise. If you can manage to get up early, you’ll be rewarded with quiet streets, peaceful parks, and a serene atmosphere before the city wakes up. Take a morning stroll through the English Garden or catch the first light hitting the Frauenkirche before the crowds arrive.
Wander Without a Plan
Some of the best Munich moments happen when you’re not following a strict itinerary. Take a random turn down a charming side street, pop into a cozy café, or explore a local market. The city’s hidden gems are often found when you embrace the unexpected!
Slow Down and Savor
Munich isn’t a city to rush through. Sit at a beer garden and people-watch, enjoy a leisurely meal, or take your time exploring the museums and historical sites. The best way to experience Munich is to relax and take it all in, just like the locals do.