Good Vibrations by Merle Wilkening | 29th August, 2024 | Playground
Every year, the Oktoberfest lures over six million visitors to Munich. But the Bavarian capital has more to offer than beer and festivals; it’s home to seven DAX-listed companies and world-class museums.
Even from a distance, a familiar landmark welcomes both locals and newcomers to Munich. The unmistakable twin Gothic towers of the Frauenkirche church loom majestically over the city. What started as a small village on the banks of the Isar River gradually evolved into a significant commercial and residential town, eventually becoming a major city. The state capital is now one of Germany’s financial and cultural centers. With a population of around 1.5 million, Munich is Bavaria’s most populous city. Every year, four times as many visitors flock to the Oktoberfest, the world’s largest Volksfest. Last year, around 6.5 million liters of beer were sold here.
Beyond the famous Theresienwiese fairground, Munich is a vibrant city brimming with charm throughout the year. The buildings in the historic city center bear witness to centuries of history and Bavarian culture. Marienplatz, the city’s most famous square in the old town, is filled with the sound of the Munich Glockenspiel at midday. The streets, both small and large, are lined with long-established shops: the Dallmayr delicatessen, the Ludwig Beck luxury department store, Hemmerle, the traditional jeweler, and the shoemaker Ed.Meier and former purveyor to the Royal Bavarian Court. You can treat yourself to a traditional Bavarian costume at Herbert Lipah’s Lederhosenwahnsinn shop or at Holareidulijö in Maxvorstadt, or hire lederhosen and dirndls for a day from Bavarian Outfitters – even though traditional dress is not compulsory at the Oktoberfest.
The world-famous Hofbräuhaus, which has been celebrating Munich’s beer-brewing tradition since 1589, is located in the historic city center. It was originally established as a brewery to the Bavarian court and did not open to the public as a beer hall until 1828.
In complete contrast to the beer halls, the Nymphenburg Palace or Munich Residence will transport you to the bygone era of the Bavarian monarchy. Or you can wander through the English Garden, where locals and visitors relax in the beer garden just a few meters away from the brave river surfers trying their luck on the Eisbach Wave. The Viktualienmarkt has offered fresh produce and local specialties from its stalls spread over two hectares since 1807. Excellent restaurants such as Tantris, JAN, Tohru and Brothers offer a fine counterpoint to the hearty local cuisine.
On a clear day, you can see the Alps from Munich. There are plenty of day trip destinations available – the hardest part might be deciding where to go first. Climb the peaks of Munich’s local mountains, cycle around the Upper Bavarian lakes, take a train to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, or go skiing in winter and stop off at a mountain hut. This easy access to nature creates a sense of well-being that makes Munich a truly special place to call home.
