Munich Things to Do

Whether you’re an art fanatic or a history buff, Munich’s many museums offer an abundance of fascinating exhibitions – the only question is where to start. Want to visit them all? Time your trip for the city’s famous Long Night of Museums, when Munich’s art galleries, museums and cultural venues stay open past midnight and host a series of species exhibitions and screenings.

As the official start of Spring the 1st May, or ‘May Day’, holiday has long been celebrated around the world and Munich is no exception. The city’s Maibaumaufstellen, or May Fair, is marked by a public holiday and a number of traditional Bavarian festivities take place.

Munich’s legendary Hofbrauhaus beer hall is so renowned around the globe, that a number of international replicas have sprung up in its honor but nothing beats a visit to the original. First opened in 1589 by Duke William V to serve the aristocracy, the Hofbrauhaus became well known for its homebrewed beers and ales, and by 1610 was opened to the public.

While the city might be most famous for its annual Oktoberfest celebrations, Munich’s vast array of museums boast a reputation to rival Berlin’s, with world class art and ground-breaking exhibitions drawing in the crowds.

The modern incarnation of Bavarian culture dates back at least 1,000 years. Custom and tradition are serious business in Bavaria. Folk songs, dances and music are systematically taught, preserved and practiced in many Bavarian towns and townships. Culture clubs, societies for traditional costumes, folk dance groups and bands all labor to keep each new generation of Bavarians in fine fettle.

Biking, no matter the location, is a great way to see your host city. You get yourself outdoors, get some fun exercise and don’t ever worry about traffic, the hassle of public transportation, or parking. So it’s pretty widely-regarded in the worldwide traveling community that if a city is a nice venue for biking, it’s a must-do.