Travel Guide to Munich, Germany

Munich is one of the richest and the most expensive cities of Europe, which was founded in 1158 by Henry the Lion, the duke of Saxony and Bavaria. Since 1806 Munich is the capital of Bavaria. In this city take place the most important banks, MSM and enterprises, such as the concern of BMW. The main city of Bavaria can boast of a number of well-known museums, great cultural level, rich nightlife and a such world-famous event as Oktoberfest.

The main architectural monuments and sights of Munich take place at the Carlsplatz and Marienplatz, which are famous for their Old and New City Halls. Around the Marienplatz with its high column of Maria you'll see the picturesque Old city. Not far from it there is the Frauenkirche, the huge towers became the symbol of Munich. The Hofbrauhaus brewery, the Residence and the Viktualienmarkt make the line of unforgettable architect objects. To this list can also be added the Odeonplatz and the Theatinerkirche. From this place starts its way one of the most beautiful streets of Munich – Ludwig-Leopoldstrasse.

The Marienplatz. The Marienplatz is the most crowded with tourists place in Munich. From that place it's easy to get to the market streets, various breweries and restaurants. But the square itself can be also very interesting. For example, there are the Glokenspiel currants on the pediment of the 19th century. At 11, 12 and 21 o'clock during the chime of bells a true puppet performance starts. It tells us about the historical past of the country. The new city hall is decorated with the 85-meter tower, from which one can enjoy the fascinating view on old area of the city. On the very top you'll see the talisman and symbol of Munich – the small monk Kindl.

The Frauenkirche. The Frauenkirche is located not far from the Marienplatz in the centre of the city – at the Frauenplatz. It has two 99-meter towers that, actually, influence a lot the modern outlook of modern Munich. The church was built in 1468-1488 in the baroque style and is considered to be one of the masterpieces of architecture of those times. By the way, not all the people find it so attractive, some think it's too gloomy, especially inside. But in any case, it's worth looking at with your own eyes and making your personal impression of the church.

To the north of the Marienplatz takes place the Residence. It's the big complex, built by the Wittelsbachers, who brought prosperity and fame to Munich. The building works lasted till the 18th century. After the Second World War the ruined part were scrupulously restored. Nowadays in the former Duke's palace you'll find a number of museums (The Museum of ancient Coins and China), the huge concert hall and a small theatre. You may also get interested by the Residence Museum and the treasury.

Munich is famous all over the world for its Oktoberfest. Every autumn it's carried out at Theresienwiese Square, but Munich can offer you something more than good beer, traditional pretzels and girls in national costumes. Munich can boast of many good museums, the most famous of which are: the Deutsches Museum, the National Prehistoric Collection, The State Museum of Ethnology, the Old Pinakotheka and the Munich City Museum.

The Deutsches Museum. The enormous Deutsches Museum is situated on the Museum island on the Isar River. It's devoted to the various aspects of science, engineering and transport. The museum is so large that you'll hardly manage to examine it all at once. The most interesting is the section of miniatures, the planetarium and the new transport section.

The Old Pinacotheka is the biggest and the oldest museum in Munich. It was built in the 19th century by the order of Grand Duke Louis I, so as to keep there all the paintings that belonged to him. At present day the great collection of works by the masters of the 14th – 17th centuries is exhibited there.

Despite the status of a big city, Munich has quite a lot of green zones, squares and parks. From the centre to the northern outskirts takes place the world-famous English Garden. It's one of the most favorite sights of Munich. The Olympic Park is also of great popularity. It attracts the visitors by the numerous lakes and the marvelous view on the city. Surely, one of the most interesting places is the Nymphenburg Park, where takes place the marvelous palace. The favorite place for swimming and barbeque is the Izauren Park. If you want to have a walk and to rest from the business of the city, you'd better choose the Westpark, various botanical gardens, the park 'Deer's garden' or the Court Garden.

Munich is just a splendid place for those, who like shopping. The widest market street of Munich is surely Maximilianstrasse. Though even far from the fabulous boutiques and stylish shopping malls, one can find a lot of shop that are eager to sell you almost everything in the world. What concerns the cuisine, Munich can offer you traditional food from practically all corners of the world. The capital of Bavaria is famous for its veal sausages, pretzels, various sorts of beer and, of course, its friendly citizens.

Read more about Munich:
Restaurants and cuisine in Munich
Local traditions and lifestyle
'Must visit' places in Munich
Nightlife and attractions in Munich
Preparing for Munich: Advices
Munich photogallery