munich old town skyline

Munich Holidays

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Magnificent Munich

Munich holidays take you to a destination where historic palaces meet cutting-edge art galleries and chic fashion sits alongside much-loved traditions.

Explore the atmospheric Old Town, admiring the centuries-old architecture on show. Head to the iconic Marienplatz square to see the famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel, whose 32 hand-carved figurines pop out to re-enact key events from Bavaria’s past.

Munich’s unique sense of character sees millions flock here each year for Oktoberfest – the world’s largest folk festival. Food, music and dancing are at the heart of this incredible celebration of Bavarian culture.

Roam the tranquil English Garden and dive into the city's thriving art scene. Year-round markets provide colour and vibrancy, while restaurants and cafes serve up delicious regional cuisine.

Book your Munich holiday package with Etihad and prepare to be dazzled by Germany’s charming ‘village of a million people’.

traditional pretzel in front of new town hall in munich

Things to do in Munich

A holiday to Munich offers plenty to do, whether you’re seeking enchanting views on a romantic getaway or fun-packed attractions for all the family.

frauenkirche church in munich

Admire the architecture

Munich is full of fascinating Gothic churches, spectacular palaces and impressive castles – there’s a great photo to be taken around every corner.

Surrounded by serene lawns, water features and gardens, the grand Nymphenburg Palace has an especially opulent design. Perhaps that’s no surprise, given that it was originally built as the summer residence for the 17th-century rulers of Bavaria.

Don’t miss Frauenkirche either, a stunning cathedral and much-loved symbol of the city. It boasts imposing 300-foot high domed twin towers and a rich history that can be traced all the way back to medieval times.

Admire it from the outside before exploring the stained-glass windows, royal tombs and intriguing story of the ‘devil’s footprint’ within.

Where to stay in Munich

The Old Town

Altstadt, Munich’s atmospheric Old Town, is the perfect place to stay for sightseeing breaks.

Home to Marienplatz, the city’s central square, you’ll find numerous restaurants and shops selling authentic bratwurst and crafts, as well as the looming spires of the New Town Hall.

The plush Mandarin Oriental hotel is well-placed to explore the historic streets and the ideal spot for luxury Munich holidays where comfort is key.

the old town and town hall in munich
the maxvorstadt area in munich

Cultural Maxvorstadt

Stay in quiet and peaceful Maxvorstadt to be at the heart of culture in the city.

The Alte Pinakothek art museum is here, offering classical work by Rubens, while the Pinakothek der Moderne plays host to the designs of Leonardo da Vinci.

There are also plenty of independent book shops and trendy cafes to dip in and out of, adding to the local bohemian vibe.

Neo-classically inspired Konigsplatz square hosts concerts and movies in the summer. Rocco Forte’s The Charles Hotel is a superb 5-star option for Munich honeymooners.

 

Park life

If you’re looking for an active holiday in Munich, base yourself close to the colossal English Garden – one of the world's largest urban parks.

Locals and visitors alike head here to wander, cycle or simply relax in the peaceful surroundings. Take a paddle boat out on Kleinhesseloher Lake or try your hand at ice skating in the winter.

The Hilton Munich Park is close to the gardens and river. Alongside its prime location it also boasts a fitness centre and indoor pool.

view of the gardens in spring in munich germany
restaurants in platzl square in munich

All you need to know about Munich

Languages spoken

The main language spoken in Munich is German. You'll find that many people also speak excellent English, particularly in the city’s tourist areas.

Getting around

Munich has an efficient underground (U-Bahn) and overground (S-Bahn) train system, as well as trams and buses. Most of the Altstadt area can easily be explored on foot.

Local currency

The currency in Munich and wider Germany is the euro. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are easy to find.

Public holidays

Public holidays in Munich include Labour Day (1 May) and German Unity Day (3 October). You might see traditional costume and celebrations on these occasions.

More about Munich

Cuisine

Munich is famous for its traditional Bavarian food. Think doughy pretzels and hearty schnitzel.

You’ll also often see ‘schorle’ on menus here – this is fruit juice mixed with sparkling water, a very popular drink in Munich.

Try authentic dishes at venues such as the Ratskeller Munchen, a wonderfully atmospheric 19th-century cellar restaurant specialising in local delicacies. In warm and cosy surroundings, tuck into saddle of deer or baked carp fillet in panko crumbs.

Munich is also a modern and multicultural city, so you’ll find a wide range of international cuisine on offer – ranging from South African to Italian and all points in between.

a platter of pretzels in munich
historic city hall in munich

History

From humble beginnings, Munich rose to become a medieval stronghold and crucial province of the Holy Roman Empire.

The city's early story is one of pioneering Gothic architecture, powerful and ambitious nobles, and a grand vision for a city that would stand proudly for centuries.

It has certainly done just that, becoming the capital of Bavaria in the 1800s, and a renowned hub of culture and scientific endeavour.

Munich’s fascinating past can be experienced in the looming architecture of the Frauenkirche, the wide variety of relics and masterworks in the museum district and the regal avenue of Maximilianstraße.

Here you can shop for designer names while strolling among 19th-century monuments to rulers and philosophers.

Culture

Munich’s culture is one of hearty welcomes and proud Bavarian traditions. Though especially popular in the modern-day, Oktoberfest has origins dating back more than 200 years – and has grown to become the world’s largest folk festival.

Brass bands and folk musicians add to the extraordinary atmosphere, while colourful parades, juicy bratwurst sausages and Schuhplattler – a famous Bavarian dance – all add to the sense of occasion.

Traditional men’s clothing in Bavaria includes lederhosen – leather breeches generally paired with long socks and a feathered hat – while women wear a style of dress known as a ‘dirndl’.

Today, you will still see these classic garments being worn during festivals and at public celebrations.

bavarian folk dance at Oktoberfest in munich
munich city skyline in the evening light with the alps visible in the background

Why we love Munich

“Munich has some of the best markets, parks and museums in all of Europe. You can’t beat strolling through the English Garden, picking up a pretzel in the Altstadt and admiring paintings at the Alte Pinakothek.”

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