Things to See and Do in Munich
Zugspitze - The Highest Mountain in Germany
Take a trip to Garmish-Partenkirchen which is an 1.5 -2 hour trip from Munich on the train. From there you can take a trip up to the summit of the highest mountain in Germany - the Zugspitze. The Zugspitze can be found in the Bavarian Alps, straddling the border with Austria.
Dachau
This abode is counted both in town and the site of the first Nazi concentration camp. The site of the camp can be visited though, it might be difficult to findthe route there is not well marked. Be prepared for an emotional experienceno one leaves unmoved or unchanged by a visit.
BlutenburgA traditional castle with a late Gothic chapel from the 15th century. The main building houses the International Youth Library; the gate tower contains the Erich Kästner memorial site, while another wing overlooking two small lakes accommodates a concert hall and restaurant.
Neuschwanstein
Built by King Ludwig II on an imposing rock in the seclusion of the mountains. Close by are the old castle of Hohenschwangau and the crystal clear Alpsee lake. About two hours by car from Munich.
Königsee
It is long emerald-green mountain lake at a stretch of 10 km, considered the pearl of the Berchtesgadener Land. Some of the most splendorous panorama views across all of Bavaria can be found here. To preserve the purity and tranquillity of the water only electrically-powered boats have been allowed on the lake since 1909.
River rafting on the Isar
Romantic trip on traditional wooden river rafts through the beautiful Isar valley. Departure point is Wolfratshausen, a small town about 30 km south of Munich.
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Glentleitn
It is an open-air museum showcasing farm buildings and handicrafts. You can watch potters and other craftsmen at work. The museum is situated near Lake Kochelsee, about 1 1/2 hours by car south of Munich.
Hofbrauhaus
As it became a royal brewery in 1605, since then beer has been a famous drink of this world-famous tavern site in the center of Munich. Also known as 'gemuchtlikheid', that has emanated directly from the Hofbrauhaus in Munich along with the beer. The joyful ambiance that reigns constantly in the establishments different halls is helped along by the foot-tapping strains of traditional Bavarian 'oom-pah' bands and drinking songs. When the beer becomes too much, soak it up with a delicious salty pretzel or a German specialty from the menu, such as liver dumplings, potato soup or a variety of savory sausages.
Marienplatz
The Marienplatz is the nerve center of Munich, it also endorses the most important historic buildings. The square is dominated by the Neo-Gothic Town Hall featuring its famous Glockenspiel, both built in the 19th century. The Town Hall has a tower that can be accessed by a lift. The center of the square that was once a vibrant farmers market features a statue of the Virgin Mary after which Marienplatz was named. Tourist can also explore a toy museum in the Old Town Hall on the square, and the Frauenkirche, Munichs cathedral, dating from the 15th century.
Olympia Park
Constructed for the 20th Olympic Games in 1972, Olympia Park remains a marvel of modern engineering. Its main stadium is a like a massive tent, that can accommodate 70,000 spectators, topped by the largest roof in the world, extending for 720,000 square feet and made of tinted acrylic glass. Visitors to the site can enjoy a spectacular view from the revolving restaurant and observation terrace which tops the 950ft high Olympic Tower.
Alte Pinakothek
The museum houses one of the most important collections in Europe on two floors of a large neo-classical building. The museum showcases nearly 1,000 paintings on display, featuring the work of the greatest European artists from the 14th to the 18th centuries. Highlights include works by Dutch and Flemish masters, as well as the Italian masters such as Botticelli and Titian. The gallery is massive, consisting of dozens of rooms, and requires a great deal of time to explore thoroughly.
