A Guide To Munich, Germany: Where to Eat, Sleep and Play

Posted In: Destinations | Europe | Germany | Travels

Visiting Munich has been on my radar for as long as I can remember, but more so after my first solo trip to Ecuador. After living in Ecuador for a little over 3 months my mostly German friends at that time have been convincing me to visit their town. They gave me quick round-downs of what it is like– historical, a taste of the old German charm, its beauty and also a city that doesn’t go easy on the pockets. Though, spending most of my days with them did not give me the German I hope I had, it has however inspired me to visit Germany and more so Munich.

Just recently, I spent a few days exploring Munich in the company of some of my long-lost-Ecuadorian-German friends and this is what we have been up to. Here’s a guide to Munich, Germany on what to eat, where to sleep and play.

Introducing Munich

Munich is the capital city of Bavaria. It is well-known for its architecture, cultural scene and its annual beer celebration (Oktoberfest). Munich draws the attention of many travellers who are looking to take in its fine architecture that was mostly rebuilt after World War II. With such a character, it is also where modern and traditions meet, a rare find if you ask me.

Stunned by its beauty, history and charm, the city center, Marienplatz square, features a town hall that chimes and somewhat react to stories from the 16th century.  It’s quite a show! Travellers gather around the main square at approximately 11 am daily to see the show in action.

If your idea of exploring historical towns include museums, traditional food kinds, stunning architecture and let’s face it, a taste of the German traditional beers here and there, then Munich is your spot.

What To See & Do In Munich, Germany 

Munich City Skyline

This is perhaps one of the most visited spots right in the city center. Visit the Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche) to enjoy panoramic views over Bavaria.  You can tour the church free of charge and with a small fee to reach the observation platform at the top. During my visit in late May, the observation deck was closed off for renovations, with plans to resume in July.

However, the views from the top are said to be worth it. My friend who was partially my tour guide for half of the day said it is frequented by travellers and even locals. Add it to your list on your next visit. 

Nymphenburg Palace

Just about 20 minutes outside of the city center locates the Nymphenburg Palace which is easily accessible by public transportation. This location was once the residence of the rulers of Bavaria. These days, it is considered a tourist attraction site that features its extravagant style and architecture. 

Dachau Concentration Camp in Munich

If you really want to get one-on-one on the deep, dark yet insightful history of Munich, then I highly recommend the Dachau Concentration camp. 

The camp is located approximately 40 minutes outside of town and can be easily accessed by public transportation. Here’s how to do it: Take the metro (the S2 line) to Dachau station, from there you can catch the bus (#726) which takes you to the main entrance.

The Dachau Concentration Camp was the first Nazi camp to be opened in 1933 after Adolf became the Head. Thousands of Jews where worked and starved to death. If you plan to visit, this is a MUST do.

Marienplatz

Arriving in Munich, I was stunned by its old German charm and antique-looking architecture.  It’s a city packed with history and each building tells a story. Try to spend at least half of a day just to roam the city center 

What to Eat & Drink- Traditional Munich Dishes 

There are so many traditional dishes to try during your visit in Germany. Though, it may be a little difficult if you are vegetarian or vegan as most dished are heavily meat-based. Here’s what I recommend you try.

Weisswurst

A traditional Bavarian Breakfast. Visiting Munich was a bit different from my usual trips. This time, I had a local friend who played my guide. First thing first, we went on a food adventure. I was eager to try everything Bavarian and traditional. 

The traditional Bavarian breakfast includes a bowl of white sausages, a giant pretzel served with a glass of beer. Traditionally, the sausages are made from minced veal and pork bacon, seasoned with onions, parsley, mace, ginger, and cardamom. It appears to be pale brown with green specks. If you intend to eat like a local (highly recommended), give this breakfast a try. The Bavarian breakfast can be found at the local restaurants located right in front of the main cathedral in Marienplatz square.

Sauerkraut

On my very first night in Munich, my friend insisted I try a traditional Bavarian dinner. I was siked about this as I was on a mission to go traditional or nothing.  We visited the local German Resturant Augustiner am Dom for a traditional feast. I went with the Sausages and Sour Cabbage (Sauerkraut). My friend went for the Bavarian Bread Dumplings in Pork Sauce (Semmelknödel). Give these dishes a try!

Leberkäse

Leberkäse is a meat specialty originated in the of Germany. Usually made up from finely grounded pork with sometimes beef and onions. It is then oven baked until the crust is golden with the inside soft and succulent.  My main dish consisted of 2- slices of oven-baked Leberkäse, an egg (sunny side up), a side dish German-styled mashed potatoes with baby pickles and sauces to go with it. Thumbs up for this one!

Pretzels

There are enough different kind of pretzels for every day of the week. Germany is known for their quality and variety in pretzels. To add, it is eaten with almost everything here. During my visit, I couldn’t get enough.

Beer Gardens

What to do after all this food? Beer gardens and beer halls in Munich are pretty popular. I recommend you visit the beer hall, Hofbräuhaus München to enjoy the traditional beers. This beer hall is pretty historic and seats up to approximately 1000 guests when filled up to capacity. In addition, there is an outdoor patio and also a self-serve section.  Traditional German food is also served here.

Beer gardens are pretty popular as well.

Where to Stay

After coming in from Frankfurt, I checked my way into The Bold.  The Bold Hotel is located right next to the Poccistrasse metro stop.  It is 3 stops away from the main city center (Marienplatz) which take approximately 5-7 minutes.

The surrounding area is pretty quiet and somewhat quaint. Also, if you are a looking to participate in future Oktoberfests, The Bold is right within the zone. Read more about my stay: Checking Into The Bold.

Read Next: Staying at The Bold

Thanks to Hd Time Lapse and Bahnhit for the images. 

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