5 Must-See Attractions in and around Munich: A Local's Guide

My first visit to Munich was as a young girl, excited to get my "first job" and earn my "own money" at the age of 9 in Mini München.

I later rediscovered it as an adult who had forgotten all the German she learned as a child but was ready to take a leap of faith by moving there during a transformative period in her life.

Join me as I share my favorite activities in and around Munich, now that I've been living here for almost 3 years.

1. Go for a walk along the Isar or in Nymphenburg

I like to stop at Chocolab, a café ( or one might call it a chocolate factory ) that is close to where I live, and get my favorite latte before taking a stroll along the river Isar. I usually do this when I have visitors, but occasionally, after a stressful day at work, I like to walk there alone.

The same goes for the Nymphenburg Castle and its gardens, where you can take a morning walk, sit on the grass, and meditate.

You might be curious why I didn't bring up the English Garden. I rarely go there because it's gigantic, which makes me feel unqualified to write about it.

2. Tegernsee if you are in town during the Spring

I have cherished childhood memories of this place, and I continue to create new ones each time I visit as an adult. Tegernsee is a stunning lake encircled by charming hotels, guest houses, restaurants, and cafés. Located about an hour's drive from Munich, it is an ideal spot for a day trip or a weekend escape from the city.

If you enjoy long walks in nature, biking, sunbathing, or simply relaxing while taking in the fresh air, this destination is perfect for you.

3. Oktoberfest if you are in town in September

I'm not particularly fond of German Schlager music and I don't drink beer, but I do suggest visiting #Wiesn at least once in your life, ideally on a Saturday or Sunday night. It's best to go to the #Schützen festzelt, where the crowd is youthful, energetic, and attractive. Attendees dress in traditional outfits for the event, so it's enjoyable to watch the parade of #Dirndl and #Lederhosen while sipping a drink, talking to people and singing along to the most popular songs.

However, going more than once can become monotonous: the music, while entertaining, remains the same every year and every night, and you may grow weary of watching drunk people fooling -and quite literally falling- around.

4. Kitzbühel no matter when

Kitzbühel is just an hour and a half away, but going there is considered an international trip since this Alpine village is located across the border in Austria.

You can visit in the winter if you enjoy skiing, as the area is dotted with multiple ski resorts, or in the spring if you prefer wellness retreats, like I do.

When planning your trip, I typically suggest ensuring you check these three bucket lists:

• Book a hotel with a good spa,

• Schedule as many massages and facials as possible,

• Make a reservation at Steghaus by the Schwarzsee lake before sunset,

• ... and allow yourself to be pleasantly surprised.

  
  

PS: Don't forget to eat Schnitzel while you're there!

Note: Saunas in Germany and Austria are a unique. They require you to be fully undressed before entering. You can choose to bend the rules if it makes you uncomfortable (as we did) or opt for other wellness activities.

5. Visit the Neuschwanstein Castle

Believe me when I say that the region of Fuessen, home to the "Cinderella" castle, ranks among my top three most beautiful places in the world. I genuinely mean it, having visited over 50 countries globally.

I've been there three times, and its beauty never ceases to amaze me. The castle is as enchanting as depicted in the Disney movie. Perched atop a hill, it offers views of lush landscapes and breathtaking lakes. If you wish to relive your childhood memories of watching the classic Disney movie Cinderella while appreciating nature's exquisite beauty, plan a trip to this destination, just an hour and a half from Munich, and let it captivate you!

A little secret:

If you want to enjoy the city views, I suggest heading to the rooftop of the Design Offices in the Werksviertel Mitte or taking the elevator to the top floor of the Mercedes tower near Donnersbergerbruecke, which provides a 360-degree view of the city. You'll need someone to assist you with access though ;)

My favorite spots in the city:

• For coffee breaks: Chocolab in Glockenbach or Kaffeeroesterei at Viktualienmarkt

• For dinner: Neni or the Spice Bazaar (oriental cuisine), Brasserie Collette or Poseidon (oysters), or Il Piccolo Principe (Italian)

• For night outings: The Boilerman Bar or Aahhh