I’ve traveled to Munich twice in my life. Both times were for Oktoberfest. And while during my first visit, I barely left the grounds of Oktoberfest, the second time around I took a day and a half to really see what the city had to offer. And I was pleasantly surprised that there’s so much more to Munich than the popular festival.
There are stunning gardens, beautiful architecture, and delicious food. There is a ton of history both in the city and outside of it. It’s full of life and deserving of more than just a glance over. Munich is a European City that should be visited for more reasons than the beer festival (and most people who go to Oktoberfest, don’t even know the real meaning behind it).
So while Oktoberfest is a great excuse to get yourself to Munich, do yourself a favor and dedicate at least a few hours away from the beer tents. Take some time out to explore what this amazing city has to offer its visitors.
There’s So Much More To Munich Than Oktoberfest
Take A Bike Tour Of The City
I believe that the best way to explore Munich is by bicycle. And luckily there are a number of bike tours offered throughout the city. Mike’s Bike Tours is one of the companies and it offers a number of options to choose from. You can take the Classic Tour which departs at 11:30 AM or you can take the Evening Tour which departs at 4 PM. There is also a Superior Tour that leaves at 9:30 AM. During each tour, you’ll have the opportunity to cycle around the city and learn the history of it from your guide.
Stop For Some Traditional Bavarian Food
Bagels with sausage. Beer. Apfelstrudel. Sauerkraut. Germknodel with vanilla sauce. Pork chops with red-cabbage dumplings. Lard…
I could list food forever, but basically, you’ve got to stop somewhere for some traditional Bavarian food. These are some of the dishes that you must try in Munich, so what are you waiting for? Dig in.
Take A Day Trip To Dachau
I don’t have a photo from Dachau because I didn’t feel comfortable bringing my camera with me. Located on the outskirts of Munich, Dachau is former concentration camp during the Second World War. It is now a memorial for those killed there and while haunting, it is worth the visit.
Take In Some Art At Haus der Kunst
The exhibits at this contemporary art museum are always changing, making it worth a visit no matter what. There’s also a great bar connected to it, The Goldene Bar, where you can sip on some delicious cocktails after exploring the museum.
Watch The Surfers On The Eisbach
Clearly, I have the worst selection of photos for this blog post! But, if you head to the Eisbach, you can watch surfers who have traveled from all over the world. They’ve come to Munich to catch a wave on the Eisbach River! It’s really spectacular to watch and you’ll find yourself with many spectators throughout the day.
Take A Stroll in Englischer Garten
Englischer Garten spans four kilometers of Munich. It’s green and beautiful and full of people and several nudists sunbathing. It’s also where the Eisbach River is. However, the greatest part is the Chinesischer Turm beer garden, a massive outdoor Biergarten that you can enjoy in the sunshine.
