A guide to Munich, Germany’s boisterous beer capital, beyond the bars

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Exploring Munich: Beyond the Beer Bars

Welcome to Munich, Germany’s spirited beer capital, where the allure goes far beyond its renowned beer halls and Oktoberfest festivities. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the lesser-explored facets of this vibrant city. Whether you’re a tech-savvy geek or a cinephile, Munich has something for everyone.

Buzzy Neighborhoods and Creative Energy

Munich’s charm stretches well beyond its ornate historic center. Modern Munich showcases its creativity in neighborhoods like Schlachthofviertel, where you’ll find a buzzing atmosphere. Start your day with brunch at Café Faber, a delightful spot along the Isar River. This former pop-up has now found a permanent home, and its ever-changing menu features delights like kimchi, hummus, and fresh sourdough.

After a satisfying brunch, head to the old town, where Sweet Spot Kaffee, the speciality-coffee haven, awaits to fuel your caffeine cravings.

Exploring Local Treasures

One of the joys of Munich is discovering homegrown businesses alongside the usual high street names. Sport Schuster, founded by a mountain enthusiast in 1913, spans seven floors, offering outdoor gear and even an indoor climbing wall for adventure seekers. For a different kind of ascent, visit Frauenkirche, the city’s largest church, which has recently undergone a decade-long restoration. Ascend one of its gothic towers for breathtaking panoramic views.

Art enthusiasts will find their fix at the Kunsthalle München, hosting three annual exhibitions covering diverse subjects, from samurai art to the works of Jean Paul Gaultier. Further north, Museum Brandhorst houses an impressive collection of works by American painter Cy Twombly, making it a vital address for contemporary art aficionados.

Satisfying Your Appetite

If you’re feeling peckish, Julius Brantner is a big name in Munich’s bread scene. Their pretzels filled with butter are a local favorite, but there are plenty of sweet options too.

For a heartier meal, make your way to Augustiner Bräustuben for traditional German cuisine. Nearby, Bodhi offers excellent vegan options, making it the city’s first and best vegan pub. Both are located in Westend, a neighborhood that’s transformed with the arrival of hip spots like speciality roasters Stray Coffee.

Outdoor Adventures and Green Escapes

Theresienwiese is a must-visit year-round. When it’s not hosting the world-famous Munich Oktoberfest, this 100-acre site is a local hub for recreation. You might even spot windskaters gliding across the open spaces. For more expansive greenery, head to Englischer Garten, where sun-dappled beer gardens beckon, offering the perfect setting to sample Munich’s renowned brews.

Schlachthofviertel: Where Culture Meets Creativity

Beyond the regal architecture of the city center, Schlachthofviertel, also known as the Meatpacking District, is a continuously evolving area. Here, traditional butcher shops and classic watering holes coexist with a burgeoning craft beer scene and innovative cultural spaces. Don’t miss Bierkiste, a kiosk-style gem run by one of Munich’s young brewers, offering a variety of regional bottles for on-site enjoyment or takeaway. A few streets away, Bahnwärter Thiel boasts graffiti-covered train carriages and shipping containers that house artist studios, workshops, and events. On weekends, techno DJs take over, making it a hotspot for music lovers.

Culinary Delights

As the day winds down, immerse yourself in Bavarian-Japanese fusion cuisine at Ciao Chang. Their standout dishes, such as local trout with teriyaki sauce and duck ramen with red cabbage, offer a unique culinary experience.

For something truly special, make a reservation at JAN in the museum district. This Michelin three-star restaurant, led by chef Jan Hartwig, offers art-like tasting menus that have earned it a well-deserved reputation as one of Munich’s culinary gems.

Nightlife and Restful Retreats

Wrap up your day with a cocktail and tropical vibes at The High bar before retiring to your accommodations. You can choose the stylish aparthotel Schwan Locke or the minimalist yet cozy Haus im Tal hotel, located in the heart of the city.

Munich, with its rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and creativity, offers a myriad of experiences beyond its beer-soaked reputation. So, whether you’re a tech enthusiast, cinema lover, or simply looking for new adventures, Munich has a delightful surprise waiting for you.

Published in the October 2023 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Exploring Munich

More about Exploring Munich

• Munich Travel Guide
• Café Faber
• Sport Schuster
• Kunsthalle München
• Museum Brandhorst
• Augustiner Bräustuben
• Bodhi Munich
• Stray Coffee
• Englischer Garten
• Bierkiste
• Bahnwärter Thiel
• Ciao Chang
• JAN Restaurant
• The High Bar
• Schwan Locke
• Haus im Tal Hotel