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Germany

Munich

Bavaria, Germany

In some ways, Munich reminds me of Budapest – quite modern, lots of shopping, a high degree of integration between old and new architecture. It doesn’t strike me as the liveliest of destinations (1-2 days is enough).

Sites​

  • ***The Alte Pinakothek, one of the world´s great museums. I was a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of heavy hitters – the quality of art is so high, it’s a bit hard to process. On my next visit I hope to visit the other two Pinakothekes, both of which are supposed to be great. 
  • ***Eisbachwelle, the river surf break in Munich, is highly entertaining. Do take the time to find it and watch the surfers.
  • The view from the top of the **Frauenkirche isn’t that great – the windows are very small and enclosed. The church itself is pleasant inside. I preferred the white, ornate expanse of the **Theatinerkirche, near the residenz.
  • ***Munich’s Treasury is modeled after the one in Vienna, and is actually a bit better in my opinion. Vienna has a lot of extremely valuable and important pieces (a large piece of the original cross and the spear that pierced Christ’s side, for example), but Munich has a ton of glitzy, shiny, dazzling jewelry. On the bling scale, I´d give it a 10. 

Hotels

My Munich hotel experience is limited to hostels and corporate trips.

  • *Courtyard by Marriott Munich City East is in the latter category, a decidedly average choice only acceptable for convenience to the train station.
  • **Excelsior by Geisel was surprisingly nice – very convenient location right next to the train station, with rather charming public spaces including a vintage-continental-style bar. My 1-person room was tiny, but comfortable enough and at a very affordable price.

Dining

  • The **Hofbrauhaus is unavoidable and can be very fun. I’ve had mixed experiences – lots of entertainment, good company, and also experiences where I’ve felt invisible and had to work way too hard to get a beer. 
  • **Wirtshaus Ayinger: This was quite good, a quieter and classier option if the Hofbrauhaus is too much for you. Make a reservation.
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