Munich Sightseeing: Things Not to Miss

This is one of the beautiful cities to visit in Germany not only due to its location near the Alps but also due to its noted architecture and culture. Munich, called in German as München, is the capital city of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany. It is the most livable city in 2010 as ranked by Monocle.

Here are some of the sights and things not to miss when visiting Munich. Quick travel tip: Plan your trip ahead, for sure you can find cheap accommodations and flights to Germany.

Marienplatz

Located in the city centre, the Marienplatz or Mary's Square is the central square in Munich and one of the main hang-outs of tourists. The Old and New Town Hall is also located in this area. The Mariensäule or Marian column which gave Marienplatz its name, was erected in 1638 to celebrate the end of Swedish occupation is also located in this square. Don't miss to watch the Glockenspiel in the tower of the new city hall.

a lot of people watched the Glockenspiel in the new Town Hall tower in Marienplatz during our visit this month.

Olympiapark

An Olympic Park which was constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics. It now serve as a venue for cultural, social, and religious events. If you want to have a good view of Munich city, you can go up to its Olympiaturm (Olympic Tower) which is 291 meters in height.

Frauenkirche

Known as the Cathedral of Our Lady in English, it is a landmark and the most iconic symbol of Munich. You can climb the stairs to the south tower to have a unique view of Munich and the nearby Alps.

Nymphenburg Palace

Known as Schloss Nymphenburg in German, it is a Baroque palace and was the main summer residence of the rulers of Bavaria. The palace, together with its park, is now one of the most famous sights of Munich.

If you want to get away with the busy city centre, you can have a more relaxing atmosphere in this area. Schloss Nymphenburg is accessible by Munich public transport's tram number 17. This line passes through the city centre, including Stachus and the main train station.

Oktoberfest during our visit last 2008.

Oktoberfest

Considered as the biggest fair in the world with more than 5 million people attending every year, Oktoberfest is one of the best experience you can have when visiting Munich. It is a 16-18 day festival held in Theresienwiese, called for short as Wiesn, which is located near Munich's center.

Oktoberfest is considered to be an important part of Bavaria culture. The first Oktoberfest took place on the 12 October 1810, to celebrate the marriage of Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

This year's Oktoberfest celebration will take place from September 17 to October 3.

Hofbräuhaus

Don't miss to visit one of the famous beer hall in Munich. You can try Bavarian dishes such as roast pork, pork knuckle, and sausages such as Weisswurst in Hofbräuhaus. You can also try its wheat beer, wine and Helles, served in a mass. While dining and drinking, you can also hear traditional Bavarian music inside.

Hofbräuhaus, during our second visit lately this month.

There are still other sights to see and to experience in Munich. Visiting its museums and castles nearby, shopping and entertainment are only some of it. There are also airlines that offers cheap flights to Munich and its nearby cities like Ryanair, Easyjet, Air Berlin and many more.