Munich

Munich

After Berlin and Hamburg, Munich is Germany’s largest city. And while its most famous export may be Oktoberfest – an annual celebration of German culture and cuisine – there’s more to the Bavarian capital than this raucous festival. Culturally speaking, there are enough attractions to rival even Berlin. Plus, despite its size, it has the feel of a small town that's easy to explore on foot.

While Munich’s art galleries may not be as famous as those of, say, Paris or New York, some of the collections are truly astonishing. The Alte Pinakothek, for example, boasts one of the best and oldest collections of European art, dating all the way back to the Middle Ages.

Arguably the biggest historical attraction in Munich is Königsplatz (German for King’s Square). This ancient temple was an important site during the Second World War, and today visitors get a real sense of history as they wander around its columns.

The beautiful Frauenkirche is another highlight – a 15th century cathedral that can hold up to 10,000 people. You should also visit Peterskirche – it’s the oldest church in the city centre.

Perhaps the most famous example of Munich architecture is Castle Nymphenburg. You’ll need to take a day trip out of the city to get there, but it’s well worth it to see this incredible castle nestled in the Bavarian Alps that looks like something out of a fairy tale.

Things to do in Munich

■ Go wild at Tierpark Hellabrunn
■ Celebrate Oktoberfest
■ Soak up some park life
■ Surf on Eisbach River
■ Take a walking tour
■ Admire art at The Alte Pinakothek

Eat in Munich

■ Spatenhaus an der Oper (Local)
■ Tantris (Asian fusion)
■ Taverna Naxos (Greek)
■ Viktualienmarkt (Food market)
■ Limoni Ristorante (Italian)
■ Restaurant 181 (International)

Stay in Munich

■ Euro Youth Hostel Munich
■ Hotel Anna
■ Hotel Laimer Hof
■ Hotel Torbräu
■ Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski
■ Mandarin Oriental

Scheduled Flights to Munich (from Kuala Lumpur)

■ Thai Airways (1 Stop)
■ KLM (1 Stop)
■ Qatar Airways (1 Stop)
■ Emirates (1 Stop)