Munich, Germany’s third-largest city, is one of Europe’s great cultural capitals, with museums and galleries around every corner, and its architecture shimmering and shining once more thanks to a meticulous reconstruction plan following World War II’s obliteration. The expanding economy has resulted in one of Europe’s best fine dining scenes, which combines cutting-edge modern techniques with hearty Bavarian classics. And, yes, there is enough beer to be had in what is certain to remain the world’s beer capital. Munich is a stunning city. Here are the five best things to do in Munich.
The Marienplatz Glockenspiel
Clock mechanisms have a mesmerizing quality to them: a chime can transport you back to a childlike state of awe. A cuckoo clock dating from 1908 stands at the northern end of Marienplatz, Munich’s principal square, depicting the city’s history with 43 bells and 32 life-sized figurines. The Glockenspiel on the tower balcony of the Neues Rathaus always draws a throng, with two or three shows every day (depending on the season). Before betting on which small knight will win the charming combat, take a cup of coffee and settle in a few minutes early. For the greatest views, take the lift up to the Café Glockenspiel.
At the Midnightbazar, you can shop till the wee hours of the morning.
Make a night of it at this night market by searching among vintage finds. Every other Saturday at 5 p.m., Midnightbazar kicks up with vendors offering clothes, records, trinkets, and more. There is a little entrance fee, but for that money, you get to browse row after row of fantastic deals (don’t forget to haggle), all while listening to a live DJ or band. You can also have dinner at one of the several street foods and cocktail stands while you’re there.
‘Umschreibung’ by Olafur Eliasson
A spiral steel staircase in the inner courtyard of an office building climbs up into the sky before returning to earth. ‘Umschreibung,’ a sculpture by Danish artist Olafur Eliasson that combines two spiral stairs to form a double helix, is a study of movement without purpose. It’s located at Ganghoferstrasse 29, inside the KPMG building. Even if you just want to admire the engineering that went into balancing the construction on a single point, it’s worth a look.
Eisbach Attractions – Surfing
Surfing may seem strange in a landlocked city, but locals and visitors alike enjoy watching surfers master the waves of Munich’s Eisbach (‘Ice Stream’) River. This cold-water sport, which was forbidden until 2010, but now attracts bold professional and semi-professional athletes who wear wetsuits all year, requires special boards and expertise. Surfers must be ready to ride as soon as they touch the water, unlike in the ocean, where they must paddle to catch waves that are artificially created on a concrete break.
Markets for Christmas
If you visit Munich in December, you must visit the Marienplatz Christmas Markets. It’s impossible to beat Germany’s Christmas markets, and Munich offers a few of the greatest. The Marienplatz is Munich’s largest square.
