From modern to traditional, Munich is a city that is driven by technology and innovation while remaining steeped in a rich tradition of gingerbread architecture and lederhosen. While Munich is home to Oktoberfest — arguably the world’s most iconic annual celebration of beer, there is much more to the city than steins and bratwurst. With beautiful squares like Marienplatz, and impressive buildings like New City Hall (Neues Rathaus), the history of Bavaria’s capital dates to the 12th century; when the Duke of Bavaria allowed a group of monks to start a marketplace, which expanded into a thriving city. In fact, the city’s German name München comes from the word Mönch (Monk); a symbol that is represented today on the city’s coat of arms.

Munich International Airport (MUC) is one of Germany’s biggest airports with flights arriving every day from far and wide. Take the easy 40-minute train ride to the city centre on the S-Bahn commuter rail network. Once in the city, public transport is excellent with the U-Bahn underground system crisscrossing the city and suburbs beyond. Subway stations are easy to find, just look for the big “U”. You will need a Bahncard to use the train, and they are widely available around town. If you fancy a more active way to get around, hop on a bike for a leisurely ride on more than 200 kilometres of bicycle paths taking in the city’s hot spots. It is a great way to soak up all that Upper Bavaria has to offer, and there is no shortage of bike hire options.

One of the most popular times to visit Munich is in late September till late October, for Oktoberfest – the city's most famous event. Outside of that, Munich is in full bloom during the springtime, from late March through mid-May, when you will be treated to pleasant weather and many events from festivals to concerts — filling the city and beyond with fantastic sights and sounds. Christmas is also a great time to be in Munich when the city’s charming Christmas markets come to life, full of delightful trinkets and traditional food and drink to get you in the festive mood. Christmas is in wintertime in Munich though, so remember plenty of layers as it can get very cold. Whenever you decide to visit, you will find a great range of holiday apartments in Munich to suit all budgets and tastes.

The view from St. Peter’s Church Tower

Get a true appreciation for Munich’s architectural beauty from high up above in St. Peter’s Church Tower. There are 299 stairs to climb, but once you reach the top you are rewarded with breathtaking views over the old town of Munich. Bring your camera as the selfie opportunities are endless.

The English Garden

Pack a picnic and spend an afternoon by the river in one of Europe’s biggest city parks — a green oasis in the middle of the city. In summer the serene lake is popular for swimming and if surfing is your thing, try the standing wave all year round. Grab a drink in one of the park's four lively beer gardens or if you are feeling active, you could even take a run around the park's 78 kilometres of paths, surrounded by natural beauty.

Viktualienmarkt

Take a visit to Viktualienmarkt, which translates in Latin to “food market.” Open daily, the market attracts everyone from locals and tourists to the city’s top chefs all looking for the best meats, fruits, and veggies to wines, spices, and flowers. After shopping, stop in at the Beer Garden located right in the middle, and sample one of the city's great local brews.