Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover
Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Where to Find the Best Pretzels and Beer in Munich
As any local will tell you, no trip to Munich is complete without sampling the city's delectable pretzels and fresh brews. From historic beer halls to cozy neighborhood bistros, refueling with these Bavarian staples is a must for any visitor hoping to truly experience life in Munich. Topping the list for the crispy golden pretzels one craves is Augustiner Bräustuben, located just steps from the famous Marienplatz. For over a century, this convivial beer hall has drawn happy crowds who come for the light and airy house pretzels straight from the massive stone oven. Savor one warm with as lighter Mustard or a creamier Obazda cheese dip. Wash it down with an ice cold Helles beer directly from the streetside drafts pouring nonstop.
Another top choice for traditional snacks is the Hofbräuhaus, perhaps Munich's most iconic beer hall. Located in the heart of the city since 1896, expect rows of benches filled with locals and visitors alike lifting giant liter mugs and sharing platters of pretzels, sausages and spreads. Be prepared for a rollicking good time, with live oompah music daily. For tourists and locals alike looking for similar atmosphere with slightly fewer crowds, head to Augustiner Keller instead. Just as historic but with a more intimate setting, their pretzels and pilsner pair perfectly.
Nature lovers seeking solace outside the city should venture to the Englischer Garten, where beer gardens like Seehaus or Chinesischer Turm dot the expansive green space. At these idyllic spots, enjoy pretzels alongside cold refreshing Helles beneath the shade of tall trees. Seehaus in particular draws laidback weekend crowds with sandwiches, soft pretzels and over two dozen beers on tap, many from regional breweries.
What else is in this post?
- Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Where to Find the Best Pretzels and Beer in Munich
- Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Munich's Hidden Gems: Uncovering the City's Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
- Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Discover Munich's World-Class Museums and Art Galleries in a Few Hours
- Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Take a Scenic Stroll: Exploring Munich's Beautiful Parks and Gardens
- Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Unwind and Relax: Exploring Munich's Spa and Wellness Scene
- Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Shop 'til You Drop: Exploring Munich's Vibrant Shopping Districts
- Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Outdoor Adventures: Exploring the Natural Beauty Surrounding Munich
Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Munich's Hidden Gems: Uncovering the City's Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
Beyond Munich's iconic landmarks and famous beer halls lies a trove of lesser-known attractions waiting to be discovered. Venture off the well-trodden tourist track to uncover the city's hidden gems, from quirky museums to peaceful gardens. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for Munich's vibrant culture and complex history.
One not-to-miss hidden gem is the Valentin-Karlstadt-Musäum, dedicated to the life and works of comedian, author and director Valentin Karlstadt. Though his contributions are little known outside Germany, he was a pioneer of Bavarian folk theater and screen farce alongside his partner Karl Valentin. Their brand of absurd comedy paved the way for the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Monty Python. At this endearing museum, view rare artifacts from Valentin's home and see hilarious film clips that reveal his comic brilliance and enduring legacy.
For a peaceful green oasis far from the crowds, head to the Botanical Garden of Munich, located north of the city center. Stroll through lush gardens showcasing nearly 14,000 plant species from around the world. Marvel at exotic blooms in the Jungle House's humid tropical zone, then relax amidst traditional medicinal herbs and Alpine plants. The gardens' café is the perfect spot to unwind over coffee and home-baked sweets.
Experience old Munich at the Bavaria Filmstadt, an entire studio town built in 1919 that's been used for countless productions. Walk down the charming cobblestone streets and explore the replica medieval town center, western saloon and other themed sets. Take a tram tour of the massive studio grounds, enjoy live-action shows, and embrace your inner star at the costume and makeup workshops. It offers a truly unique peek into Munich’s film history.
Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Discover Munich's World-Class Museums and Art Galleries in a Few Hours
With over 80 museums and galleries scattered throughout the city, Munich is a paradise for art and history lovers. While it would take weeks to fully explore them all, travelers with just a layover can still experience some of Munich’s finest collections by strategically planning their visit. Focus your limited time on a handful of top museums located near each other in the Kunstareal district.
Your first stop should be the Alte Pinakothek, one of the oldest art galleries in the world, to view European masterpieces from the 14th to 18th century. Gawk at works by Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt as you stroll through lavish halls filled with over 800 paintings. Don't miss Peter Paul Rubens’ massive The Great Last Judgement altarpiece. After feasting your eyes on the Old Masters, head next door to the Neue Pinakothek to witness 19th century paintings from Van Gogh, Degas, Monet and other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist greats.
Continue your artistic journey through the ages at the Pinakothek der Moderne, Germany’s largest modern art museum. Have your mind blown by avant garde works in four separate collections - Art, Architecture, Design and Works on Paper. See iconic pieces like Andy Warhol’s Mick Jagger or Gerhard Richter’s colorful abstract canvases. Grab an espresso to fuel up before crossing the street to the Museum Brandhorst, opened in 2009 to house over 700 radical post-war works from stars like Cy Twombly, Sigmar Polke and Andy Warhol.
Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Take a Scenic Stroll: Exploring Munich's Beautiful Parks and Gardens
Beyond its storied museums and beer halls, Munich boasts abundant green spaces that allow visitors to commune with nature and soak up the beauty of the Bavarian countryside. Exploring the city's verdant parks and meticulously-tended gardens provides the perfect change of pace from cobblestoned streets and crowded plazas.
For most travelers, no trip to Munich is complete without a stroll through the sprawling English Garden. At nearly 1,000 acres, it's one of the world's largest urban public parks. Meander along wooded paths and across lush meadows, keeping an eye out for locals surfing the artificial waves at Eisbach creek. The Chinese Tower beer garden with its pagoda-style rooftop is a popular meeting spot, as is the Japanese teahouse with its traditional zen garden. Venture further north and you'll find the monument to walking pioneer Hercules von Kaufmann, as well as the bucolic Kleinhesseloher Lake.
Seehofgarten is another can't-miss green space, one of the last remaining Baroque gardens in the city center. Just a 10-minute walk from Marienplatz, these sculpted gardens feature geometric hedges, cheerful flower beds and an intimate pond. Have a seat on a bench beneath the chestnut trees to watch swans and ducks drift across the water. The centerpiece is the open-air pavilion known as the Seehof, a rococo delight offering picture-perfect views. Grab a cone of ice cream from the garden's café and savor the tranquility.
For more horticultural treasures, head just outside Munich's city limits to two of the area's premier botanical gardens. Nymphenburg Palace marks the home of the Botanischer Garten München-Nymphenburg, threaded with walking paths that wind past rose gardens, greenhouses, water lily ponds, and 12,000 plant species from snowdrops to cacti. Meanwhile, the Botanischer Garten der Universität München offers a scientific learning experience. Marvel at carnivorous plants, rare orchids from around the globe, and one of Europe's tallest sequoia trees. Both gardens offer an urban escape and a chance to commune with nature during your Munich sojourn.
Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Unwind and Relax: Exploring Munich's Spa and Wellness Scene
After days spent exploring Munich's endless historic sites, beer gardens and museums, what better way to unwind than by indulging in some rest and relaxation? Munich boasts a flourishing spa and wellness scene that allows visitors to pamper themselves and recharge their batteries. From thermal baths dating back centuries to sleek modern facilities, there are myriad options to suit every taste and budget.
For the ultimate wellness experience, look no further than the iconic Therme Erding. Just outside Munich near the airport, it's one of the largest thermal spa complexes in Europe at nearly 230,000 square feet. The palatial Roman-Irish themed bathing area features over 20 indoor and outdoor pools, ranging from bubbly Jacuzzis to a lazy river that winds through a reconstructed ancient temple. Pamper yourself with a soothing massage or body wrap at the spa before grabbing dinner at one of the on-site restaurants. With saunas, steam rooms, water slides and more, you can easily spend an entire day being revived by the mineral-rich thermal waters.
Travel back in time by visiting Müller'sches Volksbad, a stunning Art Nouveau bathhouse built in 1901 that remains a beloved fixture of Munich life. Relax by soaking in the mixed gender bathing pool under an ornate painted ceiling and vibrant stained glass windows. Gentlemen can wind down in the wood-paneled steam bath while ladies can indulge in the Moorish-style marble hall. The affordable entry fee makes this a great choice for budget-conscious visitors seeking some tranquil R&R.
For a quintessentially Bavarian spa experience, head to Joséphine in the trendy Glockenbachviertel neighborhood. Inspired by European bathing culture, their circuit offers dry and wet saunas, a Sanariumiounger women's only sauna with Aufguss infusion rituals, pine-scented steam rooms, and comfy lounge areas for relaxing. Treat yourself to body scrubs and wraps using locally-sourced ingredients like honey, thermal salt and mountain pine. The vibe is serene and social, perfect for solo travelers or groups.
Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Shop 'til You Drop: Exploring Munich's Vibrant Shopping Districts
Munich is so much more than beer halls and castles - this cosmopolitan city also boasts world-class shopping. While in town, be sure to explore the various vibrant districts to find unique boutiques, high-end designers, traditional markets and more.
One can't miss destination is Maximilianstrasse, a ritzy boulevard in the Old Town that's often referred to as Germany's Champs-Élysées. Get your credit cards ready for an afternoon of splurging on luxury brands like Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, Cartier and Hermes all housed in elegant historic buildings. Even if the prices are out of reach, window shopping provides great people watching. Drop by the iconic Dallmayer food emporium to assemble decadent Bavarian picnic provisions.
Venture to Schwabing in the north to uncover the city's bohemian spirit. Roam along Leopoldstrasse and Hohenzollernstrasse to discover quirky art galleries, vintage shops, record stores and bookshops reminiscent of Paris’ Left Bank. Treasure hunters will love Reward Vintage or Vintage Revivals to score second-hand designer pieces and accessories. Grab an espresso at one of the classic literary cafes that draw university students and artists.
Marienplatz offers big city bustling beneath the shadow of the iconic Neues Rathaus. Check out local luxury department store Ludwig Beck for high-end watches, cosmetics and apparel. Or head to Fünf Höfe, a polished high-end shopping center with international brands, gourmet food halls and a glowing glass-roofed courtyard. Nearby side streets contain whimsical independent boutiques selling wares from local designers and artisans.
Viktualienmarkt in the center is Munich’s beloved open-air farmer’s market dating back to 1807. Join locals in their daily shopping as you wander stalls overflowing with colorful fruits and vegetables, dried herbs and spices, house-made cheeses, traditionally cured meats and other farm fresh fare. Don’t miss sampling weisswurst sausages or freshly baked lebkuchen. Take home foodie souvenirs like spice blends, handmade chocolates, traditional mustards and jars of strawberry jam. The market’s beer garden is perfect for grabbing a pint after perusing.
Stuck in Munich? How to Make the Most of Your Air China Layover - Outdoor Adventures: Exploring the Natural Beauty Surrounding Munich
While Munich dazzles with storied architecture and prolific culture, some of Bavaria's richest treasures lie beyond the city limits. Short trips from Munich introduce visitors to the fairy tale landscapes and outdoor pursuits for which Southern Germany is renowned. Taking time to absorb the nature surrounding Munich allows travelers to experience the region's soul in its truest form.
Just 30 minutes by S-Bahn lies Dachau, infamous for housing Germany's first Nazi concentration camp. A solemn visit pays respects to the camp's victims while reflects on humanity's capacity for evil. Trails winding through verdant countryside offer reprieve from darkness inside. Two hours west looms the Bavarian Alps, whose sawtooth sentinels inspired the brothers Grimm. Mountain villages like Garmisch-Partenkirchen grant access to Germany's finest hiking, cycling and rock climbing. Skirt cobalt lakes mirrored by spruce or heft yourself above forested valleys on aerial ropes courses. No matter fitness, God's grandeur inspires awe.
Northward curves the Romantic Road, a route traced by fairytale kings through half-timbered hamlets and vine-wrapped valleys. Windschloss Neuschwanstein's turrets rising from a Tegernsee precipice seem plucked from pages of childhood storybooks. Picnics under ancient oaks where Ludwig penned his Wagnerian dreams allow visitors to channel his fanciful magic. Wander cobbled streets in Rothenburg ob der Tauber to glimpse medieval Germany unchanged since the Thirty Years War. Stroll untrodden footpaths to dissolve into landscapes that nurtured this rich culture for centuries.
For adventurists, Garmisch offers world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding during winter months. Come summer, Austria's Kitzbühel Alps beckon those eager to conquer trails carved by Edwin Thater, founder of alpine downhill racing. Pedal through sleepy orchards and wheat fields on one of over 250 bike paths connecting towns like Starnberg and Ammersee where Hermann Hesse penned Narcissus and Goldmund. Paddle serpentine rivers like the Isar, experience Bavaria's splendor at a gentle pace.