Oktoberfest, beer halls & the Alps
Munich
München · Beer gardens & Alpine gateway
Bavaria's proud capital balances lederhosen tradition with BMW-era wealth. Baroque squares and beer gardens give way to the English Garden's surf wave, and the Alps and fairy-tale castles sit just a short train ride south.
Top sightsSights
Marienplatz & Glockenspiel
The central square with its ornate New Town Hall and daily chiming figures.
English Garden
One of the world’s largest urban parks, with beer gardens and a river surf wave.
Nymphenburg Palace
A sprawling baroque summer palace and gardens of the Bavarian royals.
Hofbräuhaus
The world’s most famous beer hall, pouring since 1589.
Neuschwanstein day trip
The fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney, in the Alpine foothills.
What to eatFood
Weißwurst
Mild veal sausages eaten before noon with sweet mustard and pretzels.
Schweinshaxe
A crackling roast pork knuckle, a Bavarian classic.
Brezn
The big soft Bavarian pretzel, best with obatzda cheese.
Good to know
- Oktoberfest runs late September to early October — book beds months ahead.
- Take the S-Bahn for easy day trips to castles, lakes and the Alps.
- Beer gardens let you bring your own food — just buy the beer.
Getting there
Munich Airport (MUC) is a major European hub; ICE trains reach Berlin, Vienna and Zurich, and regional trains serve the Alps.
Next city
Hamburg