City is a dynamic hub of culture, business, and innovation
I’m originally from the north of Germany, but I have lived in the Bavarian capital of Munich for nearly three decades — two of which I’ve spent working as a video journalist, most recently for Reuters TV.
What I most love about this city is how easy it is to escape into nature. Framed by a postcard-perfect Alpine backdrop and flanking the Isar River, Munich offers locals the opportunity for a post-work dip in a lake, a hike or ski in the Alps, or yoga and a run at the Olympiapark. The city is also a dynamic hub of culture, business, and innovation — one where museums and exhibitions are plenty, where rich traditions are celebrated, and where most every garden is a beer garden.
Here’s my guide for how to explore the city like a local:
Getting around: Skip the pricey tourist buses. Munich’s public transport is efficient and easy to use. A favourite way to explore is to take Tram line 19, which runs from Pasing in western Munich to the city centre and east, passing landmarks like historic Lenbachplatz, the National Theatre, and the Maximilianeum, the seat of the Bavarian state parliament. Grab a window seat for a relaxed city tour.
What to eat and drink: No visit to Munich is complete without a traditional beer garden, or Biergarten, experience. Locals gather under chestnut trees to enjoy beer by the litre (yes, the litre — “Masskrug” is the term for a one-litre beer mug), crispy roast chicken, and pretzels. Hofbräuhaus serves great food alongside traditional Trachtenkapellen music, creating a vibrant and authentic atmosphere, while Hirschgarten — one of the largest beer gardens in the city — is perfect for families with its nearby deer park.
If you’re looking for a quick bite, try Obatzda,a cheesy dip, or a Leberkassemmel, a warm meat sandwich with sweet mustard, available at butchers like Vinzenz Murr. Another popular local snackis a Schnittlauchbrezn, a pretzel with cream cheese and chives, available at Brezelina at the Stachus underground mall for around 3.65 euros ($4.25). If you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern street food, I recommend the falafel and halloumi at Sesam Falafel on Tal Street.
What to see: A must-see in Munich is the Marienplatz, the city’s central square, where you can watch the famous town hall Glockenspiel, a giant clock with moving figures that depict scenes from Bavarian history with music daily at 11 a.m. and noon. Just around the corner, explore the Viktualienmarkt for local food, the Frauenkirche cathedral with its twin domes, and the Residenz, the former royal palace.
Get active: My recommended jogging route is around elegant Nymphenburg Park, which takes you by Nymphenburg Palace, known for its stunning baroque architecture, a botanic garden, and small museums including a porcelain museum.
If you prefer to swim, Munich has no shortage of beautiful spots. One of my favourites is Müllersches Volksbad, an indoor swimming pool known for its Roman-style baths and Art Nouveau design. In the summer, I like to rent a pedal boat on Lake Wörthsee, located almost 30km (19 miles) outside the city, and jump in for a refreshing swim.
The hot ticket: For a true sporting experience, catch a Bayern Munich soccer match at the Allianz Arena. Built in 2005, this modern stadium has hosted European Championship and World Cup matches. Bayern Munich is Germany’s most successful football club, known for its talented players and its motto: Mia san Mia (“we are who we are”). Tickets to matches start for as little as 40 euros ($47).
Getting away: For a quick break from the buzz, head to the Eisbachwelle in the English Garden, where surfers ride a standing wave all year round. Just a few steps away, you can cool off in the Eisbach River. True to its name, which means “ice brook” in German, the Eisbach’s water stays refreshingly cold even in summer. Another great escape is the area around Lake Starnberg, just under an hour from Munich by train, which is perfect for a swim with a view of the Alps.
For a fun day-trip, visit the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain,from where you can get an unforgettable view over the snowy Alps. It’s the perfect skiing destination in the winter, and in the summer offers a refreshing getaway from the city’s heat.
Banner event: Oktoberfest is Munich’s most famous celebration and the biggest beer festival in the world. Every year between mid-September and early October, around 6 to 7 million visitors flock to the city. Some 35 beer tents offer drinks — mainly beer served in Masskrug — and Bavarian food. Amusements to enjoy — perhaps before the beer — include rollercoasters and haunted houses. In 2024, total consumption amounted to approximately 7 million litres of beer and around 200 roasted oxen. It’s a fun mix of great food, lively music, and Bavarian tradition.
Traditional clothing: Locals proudly wearthe bodice dress known as Dirndl or Lederhosen breeches all year round — not just during Oktoberfest! You’ll see them at weddings, in the opera or even on a sunny day in the park. They’re easy to find all over Munich in every price range, making them a memorable souvenir to take home.
CITY MEMO DATA POINTS
Price of a cup of coffee: 3.20 euros ($3.70) at Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt, a popular spot known for its high-quality, freshly roasted beans right in the heart of Munich’s historic market area.
Popular local car brand: BMW, headquartered in Munich, is a key part of the city’s identity. Visit the BMW Museum and BMW Welt to explore its history, iconic cars, and future concepts.
Price of an ice-cream scoop: 2.80 euros ($3.25) at Ballabeni, known for its natural ingredients and fancy flavours.
Great place to see the sunset: The Olympiaberg hillin the Olympiapark offers beautiful sunset views over Munich. Made from post-WWII rubble, it’s a peaceful spot where you can often hear concerts for free from the nearby Olympiastadion — Taylor Swift played last year.
Largest university: Ludwig Maximilian University, 55,000 students
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