Bavaria Travelers Recommend

As the birthplace and former headquarters of the Nazi Party, Munich played a key role in the rise and fall of Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich—and World War II. Here are some of the places in and around Munich that World War II history buffs must not miss.

The Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall

The Hofbrauhaus is where Hitler and the National Socialists held their first meeting in 1920, and where Hitler delivered one of his first speeches on the burgeoning ideology of Nazism in Germany. Today it’s a popular Bavarian beer hall where visitors and locals alike sip steins and take in the festive vibe.

Feldherrnhalle

Feldherrnhalle was the site of the famous Beer Hall Putsch of 1923, when officers of the Bavarian State Police clashed violently with Adolf Hitler supporters who were trying to storm the Bavarian Defence Ministry and seize power. Following the failed coup, Hitler was arrested and sentenced to a term in prison.

Headquarters of the German Workers’ Party

Forerunner of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party, the short-lived German Workers’ Party was founded in Munich’s Hotel Fuerstenfelder in January 1919. Party members—including a young Adolf Hitler—joined together here to discuss themes of nationalism and anti-Semitism.

Brown House (Braunes Haus)

Situated between the Karolinenplatz and Konigsplatz, the Brown House was the former headquarters of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party. It was here, from 1930, that Hitler ran an office and the Nazi Party planned rallies that changed the path of history in Europe and the world.

Eagle’s Nest

A popular site for day trips and walking tours from Munich, Eagle’s Nest sits atop the summit of the Kehlstein, a peak in Bavaria’s Berchtesgaden Alps. During Third Reich rule, the Eagle’s Nest played host to social gatherings for members of the Nazi Party.

Dachau Concentration Camp

Heinrich Himmler opened Dachau, the first of the infamous Nazi concentration camps, in 1933. From then until its eventual liberation in 1945, the camp saw some of the Holocaust’s worst atrocities committed by members of the Nazi Party.

Visit Bavaria’s royal castles and you’ll get a serious dose of German history and fairytale architecture, courtesy of their maker, King Ludwig of Bavaria. See below to discover the most ornate palaces in the region and learn how best to see them.

Neuschwanstein Castle

The inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, Neuschwanstein was built by King Ludwig II in the 19th century. Capture the architectural grandeur and picturesque mountain scenery on a visit to this UNESCO-listed site.

How to Visit Choose between small-group and private tours, many of which combine a visit to Neuschwanstein with stops at other German castles, such as Linderhof and Hohenschwangau. Opt for a multi-day trip to explore more of Bavaria, or spend the day in the quaint village of Oberammergau before returning to Munich.

Hohenschwangau Castle

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes near the Austrian border, the magnificent Hohenschwangau Castle was the childhood home of King Ludwig II.

How to Visit: For the royal treatment, choose a full-day tour that visits multiple Bavarian castles, including Hohenschwangau, Linderhof, and Neuschwanstein. 

Linderhof Palace

Thought to be modeled after the Palace of Versailles in France, Linderhof Palace is the smallest of the three palaces built by the king and the only one that he lived to see completed.

How to Visit: Keep Munich as your home base by booking a single-day tour to Linderhof (many of which combine a visit to this palace with stops at other castles), or choose a multi-day trip to see more of Bavaria.

Herrenchiemsee Palace

One of King Ludwig II’s homes on Herreninsel Island, Herrenchiemsee showcases the king’s legacy. It is also thought to be modeled after the Palace of Versailles.

How to Visit: Herrenchiemsee Palace is most often visited from Munich by train. A guided trip through the palace, combined with a walking tour of the palace’s gardens and a boat tour of the surrounding islands, is a great way to spend a full day.

Munich is known for its annual Oktoberfest extravaganza, but the Bavarian capital is just as busy during the summer months. Travelers will find plenty of ways to enjoy Munich's sun, culture, and food in summer—here are a few of our favorites.

• Watch (or join!) the surfers riding the man-made waves on the Eisbach River in the English Garden.

• Take a day trip to visit some of Germany's most famous fairytale castles, including Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace.

• Explore the city by bike or Segway and enjoy a picnic in the park.

• Spend a leisurely afternoon relaxing at an outdoor beer garden.

• Treat your stomach to a food and beer tour to experience Germany's beloved dining traditions.

• Take a day trip to Mozart's hometown in Salzburg.

Three days in Munich gives you time to discover the city’s beer, food, art, nightlife, architecture, and palaces; marvel at the fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney; and even squeeze in a day trip. And if you’re visiting over Oktoberfest or the Christmas period, that’s even better. Read on to find out more.

Day 1: City Sights and Bavarian Brews

Start your first day with a thorough orientation of the Bavarian capital. Soak up sights such as the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche), the Munich Residence palace, and Marienplatz, fortifying yourself with coffee and cake en route. If the weather’s friendly, enjoy lunch in the English Garden park. Next, discover the city’s world-class art scene. See old masters at the Old Pinakothek, 19th-century and impressionist stars at the New Pinakothek, and modern works at the Modern Pinakothek. Wrap up the day with the city’s signature experience, a night in a historic beer hall with dirndls, an oompah band, gallons of beer, and hearty Bavarian fare such as pork knuckle.

Day 2: Castles and Cocktails

Start your second day, perhaps, with Bavaria’s signature breakfast: weisswurst, the white sausage that’s only eaten before noon. Then head out to Mad King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle for a tour of its magical turrets, chambers, and halls. Then return to Munich and explore its signature regal sights: the extravagant Munich Residence, where Bavaria’s rulers sat in state for centuries, and Nymphenburg Palace with its opulent gardens. Alternatively, continue your countryside adventure with a trip to majestic Hohenschwangau Castle, where Ludwig grew up, or Linderhof Palace, Ludwig’s answer to Versailles. Come evening, discover wealthy Munich’s more sophisticated side over cocktails and light bites in a high-end bar.

Day 3: Day Trip or Dachau

Your third day in Munich is a great opportunity to discover the city’s dark past. Start with a walking tour of the city’s many Nazi-era landmarks, learning about key points on Hitler’s rise to power. Then catch the train a little way out of the city to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, where the first of the Third Reich concentration camps opened in 1933. Alternatively, if World War II history is too dark for you, feast on beauty with a day trip to Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze; the beautiful Austrian city of Salzburg; or along south Germany’s dazzling Romantic Road. For your last evening, delve deeper into Munich’s international present. Feast at one of the city’s excellent Afghan restaurants, then don your glad rags and party till dawn at your pick of its high-class, high-energy clubs.

Three days in Bavaria are just enough time to take in the highlights of Germany’s mountainous southern state. Combine sightseeing with beer tasting in Munich; discover the storybook villages and fairy-tale castles of the Romantic Road; and marvel at the wild landscapes of the Bavarian Alps. Here’s how. 

Day 1: Sightseeing in Munich

Famous for its beer-brewing heritage and world-renowned Oktoberfest, Munich is the obvious place to start. Get to know the Bavarian capital on a walking, biking, or Segway tour—or check off the sights at your own pace on a hop-on hop-off bus. Must-see landmarks include the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche), and Frauenkirche cathedral. Afterward, stroll the English Garden, or wander the stalls at the lively Viktualienmarkt market. For dinner, tuck into traditional Bavarian fare like pork knuckle, pretzels, and spaetzle at one of Munich’s legendary beer halls or beer gardens, such as the Hofbräuhaus. Join a beer-tasting experience for an introduction to local favorites and insight into Bavaria’s beer-making legacy.

Day 2: Exploring the Bavarian Alps

Head south to admire the snow-blanketed peaks and lush valleys of the Bavarian Alps. The most impressive route is part of the German Alpine Road, which runs from Lake Constance to Berchtesgaden. Along the way, stop at Neuschwanstein Castle, built by the “Mad” King Ludwig II and one of Bavaria’s most photographed sights—prebook skip-the-line tickets to save time. Day tours from Munich often include visits to attractions such as Linderhof Palace (another of Ludwig II’s creations) and Hohenschwangau Castle (his childhood home).

Day 3: Driving the Romantic Road

Set out on one of Europe’s most picturesque routes, the 220-mile-long (354-kilometer-long) Romantic Road, which runs from Füssen in the south to Würzburg in the north. It’s possible to travel the most scenic stretch—between Augsburg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber—in one day. Join a tour to make the most of your time, as public transit is limited along the Romantic Road. Photo ops are around every corner, so take time to stop in the villages of Donauwörth and Dinkelsbühl and see the 11th-century Harburg Castle. Rothenburg is the route’s star, a remarkably preserved medieval town where you can browse artisan shops and walk the old city walls and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Shop, open year-round. 

While there's much to see and do in Munich, the attractions outside the city limits can be equally alluring. From pristine Alpine lakes and fairy-tale castles to quaint mountain villages and sobering concentration camp sites, here are our top must-do day trips from Munich.

Neuschwanstein Castle — about 75 miles (120 kilometers) away

Built in the late 19th century by Bavaria’s “Mad" King Ludwig II, this castle is famous for its audacious Disney-esque architecture. Most day tours to the castle from Munich include round-trip transportation and skip-the-line access, while some incorporate trips to other royal residences in Bavaria, such as the nearby Hohenschwangau Castle, Ludwig II’s childhood home, and Linderhof Palace.

Salzburg — about 93 miles (150 kilometers) away

Less than two hours from Munich by train, the picturesque city of Salzburg sits just across the Austrian border. Most tours from Munich include train tickets, a guided walking tour, and free time to explore on your own. Wander the Old Town (Aldstadt), visit the mighty Salzburg Fortress (Festung Hohensalzburg), and check out prominent Sound of Music filming locales such as Mirabell Palace and Garden.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site — about 19 miles (30 kilometers) away

The troubling legacy of the Third Reich is remembered at Dachau, where Hitler set up his first concentration camp in 1933, mere weeks after coming into power. Dachau’s proximity to Munich makes it possible to visit the memorial site and take a World War II tour of Munich in the same day.

Lake District — distances vary

Munich is an ideal jumping-off point from which to explore the Bavarian lakes and the Austrian Lake District (Salzkammergut). Enjoy relaxed cruises on Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgangsee), King’s Lake (Konigssee), or Lake Hallstatt (Hallstätter See), which are encircled by soaring Alpine peaks and lush valleys.

Oktoberfest is by far the largest beer festival in the world, attracting more than 7 million visitors to Munich every year to enjoy the liquid gold. The 16-day event's temporary sparkling city of 34 vast beer tents, fairground attractions, music and specially brewed beer served in Masskrüge (one-liter) mugs certainly makes for a memorable experience.

The Beer

Thanks to the 16th-century Bavarian Beer Purity Law still in place today, Oktoberfest guests are guaranteed the highest quality Bavarian brews at the event. All beer served is from one of Munich's Big Six breweries: Augustiner, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spaten, Hofbräu and Hacker-Pschorr. About 6.9 million liters of beer are consumed over the course of the festival (that's enough to fill 43,000 bathtubs), and it should be noted that Oktoberfest beer has a higher alcohol content than other varieties. In addition the beer, traditional Bavarian food is also served, including Hendl, salt-roasted chicken, and Dampfnudl, sweet dumplings served with vanilla sauce. Also, the drinking age in Germany? 16.

The Atmosphere

Oktoberfest is known as one giant, joyous party, with Bavarian Blasmusik (brass band music) played in every tent, each of which has its own personality. The 10,000-person Hofbräu-Festzelt tent is an especially festive area, where it's possible meet travelers from all around the world in addition to plenty of Germans—85% of attendees arrive at Oktoberfest from Bavaria and other parts of Germany. Travelers can enjoy what locals call Gemütlichkeit—a friendliness, comfortable coziness and relaxed appreciation for the old-fashioned good things in life. In addition to participating in the colorful Bavarian triathlon of eating, drinking and singing, guests can also wander the 103-acre grounds and take a ride on the carousel or see the Wiesn faigrounds from the top of the Ferris wheel.

How to Attend

Given the event's enormous popularity, it's best to book tickets in advance and reserve a table in one of the major tents. Tickets can be combined with a tour of the Oktoberfest grounds, a Segway tour around Munich or a historical beer festival walking tour. It's even possible for those traveling in Austria to book an Oktoberfest experience that begins with transport from Salzburg to Munich.

With two days in Munich, you can discover the city’s art, architecture, beer, and food; explore its Nazi past; and marvel at Bavaria’s signature fairy-tale castle, Neuschwanstein. And if Oktoberfest or the Christmas markets are in season, all the better. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in the Bavarian capital.

Day 1: City Sights and Bavarian Brews

**Morning:**Start the day by orienting yourself in Munich. Don’t miss landmarks such as the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche) and the Munich Residence palace; if weather permits, soak up the sights in the English Garden (Englischer Garten) park. Be sure to stop for a Munich ritual: coffee and cake (kaffee und kuchen).

**Afternoon:**Discover the role that Munich played in the Nazis’ rise to power, perhaps on a walking tour of the city’s many Third Reich landmarks. Alternatively, head to Dachau, just 13 miles (21 kilometers) from the city center, to pay tribute at the somber site of Germany’s first concentration camp.

**Night:**It wouldn’t be Bavaria without beer. Spend your first night enjoying Munich’s signature experience: a night in a classic beer hall with oompah bands, dirndls, lederhosen, and epic quantities of pork and potatoes. In summer, be sure to stop by one of the city’s seasonal beer gardens, too.

Day 2: Castles, Art, and Cocktails

**Morning:**Wake up early for the long trip out to Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairy-tale edifice that Bavaria’s Mad King Ludwig II built in the 19th century. True castle junkies may want to make a day of it by adding a visit to Hohenschwangau Castle, where Ludwig grew up, or Linderhof Palace, which he built.

**Afternoon:**Whatever your taste in art, Munich’s Pinakothek has you covered. The Old Pinakothek delivers European old masters from Botticelli and Titian to Rubens and Dürer; the New Pinakothek has 19th-century titans such as Van Gogh and Manet; and the Modern Pinakothek offers Picasso, Dalí, and so much more.

**Night:**Spend your final night in Munich discovering a more modern side of this prosperous city. Sip vino and nibble light bites in a shipping container; savor fine cocktails courtesy of Munich bartending legend Charles Schumann; or, if you’re still thirsty for beer, swing by one of the city’s contemporary craft beer bars.

The Bavarian capital of Munich has long been among the most popular destinations in Germany, and for good reason. This city is full of architectural marvels, from the neo-Gothic New Town Hall and the medieval main square of Marienplatz to the Gothic-meets-Renaissance cathedral of Frauenkirche. Sports lovers will surely be familiar with the Bayern Munich soccer team, while the annual Oktoberfest attracts beer lovers from around the world. 

Plus, if you feel like getting out and exploring for the day, there’s plenty to do and see in the surrounding region, from the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein to the sobering Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial. Here are some of Munich’s must-do activities. 

From the Bavarian city of Munich, the Austrian border is just a 1.5 hours' drive away through striking German countryside, making nearby Salzburg an easy day trip destination. See below for the best ways to explore this Baroque city from Munich.

Salzburg City Tours

A guided tour is a great way to discover all that Salzburg has to offer, especially when visiting from Germany. See Hellbrunn Castle, Mirabell Palace, and the Mozart Residence (Mozart Wohnhaus), the former home of classical music king Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Traveling with a tour guide and a group will allow you to explore the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town without having to worry about transport from Munich.

Combo Tours

Choosing a combo tour will take you from Munich to Salzburg, while also allotting time to explore the best of the Bavarian countryside. Head out to absorb the beautiful Lower Bavarian Alps and see filming sites used in the 1965 classic The Sound of Music, then visit Salzburg’s churches and squares. You can then continue through the Lake District toward the postcard-perfect town of St Wolfgang, where Mozart was born, all before getting transported back to Munich.

Things to Know

• Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

• Because Salzburg and the surrounding countryside are a couple hours’ journey from Munich, most day trip tours last upwards of eight hours.

• Be sure to bring a camera to capture the gorgeous mountain scenery.

• An extended two-day tour can be a great way to see all the sights at a relaxed pace.

Germany’s third city and the capital of Bavaria, Munich delivers so much more than the annual Oktoberfest beer frenzy and adorable Christmas markets. A bewitching blend of historic architecture, green parks, and contemporary arts and style, Munich belies its staid reputation. Here’s how to get a decent taste of the city in just one day.

Morning: City Circuit

Start the day by orienting yourself in the city, perhaps on a Segway tour, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or a bike tour. Check out historic architecture such as the Munich Residence palace, the Old Town Hall, and the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche); amble scenic squares such as Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz; and soak up the fresh air in the vast English Garden (Englischer Garten) park. Along the way, be sure to stop for a Munich ritual: coffee and cake (kaffee und kuchen). Don’t miss indulgent treats such as Bavaria’s favorite Prinzregententorte sponge, with chocolate buttercream and apricot jam.

Afternoon: The Dark Side

Munich played a central role in Hitler’s rise to power. It was here that he first attempted to take control of Germany, during the Beer Hall Putsch of 1923, and many Nazi-era landmarks survived the bombing during World War II. A walking tour of Third Reich Munich is a fascinating journey into the city’s—and Germany’s—dark past. Alternatively, travel a little way out of the city to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, where the Nazis opened their first concentration camp in 1933. Tens of thousands died here, while many more were sent to their deaths at Auschwitz.

Night: Bavarian Brews

Even if you miss Oktoberfest (which, despite the name, runs from mid-September to early October), an encounter with Bavaria’s No. 1 export—beer—is a must. A trip to a classic beer hall, perhaps the 16th-century Hofbräuhaus, is essential. Soak up the atmosphere as dirndl-clad waitresses and lederhosen-sporting waiters bear foaming steins, an oompah band plays, and hearty Bavarian faves from pork knuckle to sausage steam up the kitchen. In summer, don’t miss the city’s vast beer gardens. If time permits, check out Munich’s burgeoning craft beer scene, with contemporary beer joints as stylish as anything you’ll see in Berlin or Austin.

The 19th-century Wittelsbach rulers of Bavaria shaped their capital in the image of Europe’s cultural behemoths, transforming Munich into “Athens on the Isar River.” It’s a legacy that continues today as Munich remains an important European cultural center. Here are some ways to explore Munich’s cultural side.

Go museum-hopping at the Kunstareal.

Visit Munich’s top museums in one swoop with a visit to Kunstareal, Munich’s museum quarter. Here, you find the three Pinakotheken galleries—Old Pinakothek (Alte Pinakothek), New Pinakothek (New Pinakothek), and Pinakothek der Moderne—as well as Lenbachhaus art gallery and Museum Brandhorst. Admission to some of these institutions is included as part of multiattraction sightseeing passes. 

Visit royal residences.

The former palaces of Bavarian royals are scattered around Munich and the surrounding regions. They serve both as architectural eye candy and as repositories for art, antiques, and decorative objects. Some, such as the Munich Residenz (Residenz München) and Baroque-style Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg), are situated within Munich itself, while others, such as Linderhof Castle, Neuschwanstein Castle, and Hohenschwangau Castle, can be easily visited as part of day trips.

Catch a music performance.

A night out at a concert is a classic Munich activity. Attend orchestral performances at the Rococo-style Cuvilliés Theater, Max Joseph Hall, or the Hofkapelle (Court Chapel)—all of which are in the Munich Residence. For something less formal, catch oompah bands performing at the Hofbräuhaus beer hall.

Attend Oktoberfest.

Immerse yourself in traditional Bavarian culture at this world-famous festival, which starts in mid-September and features parades, processions, and a fairground. Attendees don traditional Bavarian garb while they eat, drink, and dance the days away. Some packages include a tour of Theresienwiese, the festival site, as well as food, beer, and reserved spaces in an Oktoberfest tent.

With vast green spaces, nature on its doorstep, and plenty of sunny beer gardens and cozy beer halls, Munich is an ideal spot for a laid-back city break. And while the Bavarian capital can get crowded, there are also peaceful pockets for escape—provided you know where to look. Here’s how to beat the crowds in Munich.

Go to green spaces.

When you need some time away from the urban bustle, head to a Munich park. The English Garden (Englischer Garten) is bigger than Central Park, with plenty of room to stretch out without bumping elbows. Or walk or picnic on the banks of the tranquil Isar River.

Book tickets in advance.

While you can’t avoid crowds at top attractions, you can minimize wait times by purchasing tickets in advance. Prebook tickets for Neuschwanstein Castle to avoid lengthy lines (and potentially getting turned away) at the ticket office. Make an Oktoberfest reservation well in advance to avoid wading through the crowds and searching for a seat.

Time your visits carefully.

Choosing when to visit Munich is as important as where to visit. Nighttime sightseeing tours are a great way to see top sights when many other travelers are off the streets. If you want to experience Oktoberfest without the biggest crowds, avoid opening and closing weekends. Better yet, try going early on a midweek morning when most locals are at work.

Escape to mountains and lakes.

Give city crowds the slip on day trips out to the Bavarian countryside and the Austrian Lake District (Salzkammergut). Lakes such as Chiemsee and Wolfgangsee make serene day-trip getaways, while Herrenchiemsee Castle is a crowd-free alternative to the popular Neuschwanstein Castle.

Avoid Oktoberfest.

Munich is busiest for Oktoberfest when more than 6 million visitors pour into the city. The crowds, noise, and buzz are all part of the Oktoberfest fun, but it’s not for everyone. If you want to explore the city without big crowds, it’s best to visit at another time of year. 

Explore by bike.

Public transport is often busy at rush hour, as are roads. It’s often quicker and less stressful to explore Munich by bike. Bikes allow you to explore more of the city in less time, and there are lots of well-kept bike routes to follow. Opt for a stress-free bike tour for a seamless experience.

Munich residents pay a high price for rent and real estate. Fortunately, budget travelers can experience the best of the city without inflicting too much damage on their bank balance—providing they plan ahead. From super savers to sightseeing passes, here is how to get the most bang for your buck in this Bavarian metropolis. 

Book a Super Saver

Super Savers combine two bestselling activities into one discounted tour. Enjoy much-loved Munich attractions and activities, including bike, beer, and World War II tours, as well as out-of-town trips to Dachau, Salzburg, and the Romantic Road.

Buy a Sightseeing Pass

City passes are a natural choice for budget-conscious travelers, offering access to multiple museums, galleries, and historical sites, for one set price. Some sightseeing passes come with included hop-on hop-off bus transport or included use of public transit, making them an appealing option for those on a budget.

Take a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

While Munich’s Old Town (Altstadt) is walkable, attractions on the outskirts such as Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) and Olympiapark require visitors to hop in a taxi or take public transport. Save yourself money and the hassle of navigating by booking a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which also includes the benefit of onboard commentary and drop-off and pickup at most major attractions. 

Tour the City by Bike

Cycling in Munich is a breeze, with well-marked bike lanes covering much of the city. Save on transport costs and parking fees by renting a bike. Or opt for a low-cost bike tour, which allows you to cover more ground than you could on foot and sightsee in the company of a guide.

The city of Nuremberg may be synonymous with post-World War II trials that were held here, but there’s much more than one chapter to the town’s history. Visitors can explore the medieval Old Town, learn about the city’s culinary heritage, and also visit the local zoo. Here are a few ways to spend 3 days in Nuremberg. 

Day 1: All About History

Learn about Nuremberg’s history with an introductory tour of medieval Old Town. Get your bearings in the city, and hear about various historical periods, from the German Renaissance to the years of the Third Reich to the famous Nuremberg trials. Guided tours include stops at popular landmarks such as the town hall, the gothic St. Lawrence Church, and the Nazi Party Rally Grounds. Some itineraries also include a stop at the Nuremberg Trials Memorial at the courthouse. 

Afterward, head to the Imperial Castle Nuremberg to learn about the city’s Roman roots, see Albrecht Dürer’s House, or dive deeper into more recent history with a tour focused entirely on World War II history. Many of these sights can be seen with a Nuremberg Card, which includes entry to a variety of landmarks as well as transportation on the city’s subways, trams, and buses.

Day 2: Food Tours and Cooking Classes

Explore Nuremberg’s culinary scene with a food tour or a cooking class—or both. Start with a guided tour that takes you past more of the city’s sights with stops for local foods like sausages, potato salad, gingerbread, and red beer. Alternatively, you can book a morning cooking class and learn how to make bratwurst.

In the afternoon, try your hand at something sweet, and learn how to make traditional German gingerbread from scratch. After class, you’ll leave with a box of homemade treats to bring home to friends and family. Or combine history and imbibing with a tour that takes you to the city’s WWII sights in the afternoon and then to a variety of microbreweries in the evening to enjoy local beer and food.

Day 3: Custom Tours and Seasonal Christmas Markets

The Nuremberg Zoo is one of Europe’s largest. Visit the family-friendly zoo to see everything from lions and gorillas to dolphins. Alternatively, you can spend your last day in town getting off the beaten path on a customized tour. Local guides can design an itinerary around a variety of neighborhoods, sights, or markets and help you explore beyond the city center. 

In winter, you can opt for a tour of the Nuremberg Christmas Market. The vast holiday market, held from late November through Christmas Eve, has taken place for over 700 years, and visitors can enjoy everything from rides on a horse-drawn carriage to Christmas tree decorations to giftable items made in Nuremberg’s sister cities across the globe. There’s even a children’s area with a carousel and a Santa Claus house. Opt for a guided tour that includes tastings of traditional foods and drinks, including sausages, gingerbread, mulled wine, and more. 

In the 19th century, King Ludwig I made it his mission to establish Munich as an artistic and cultural center, financing various art and architectural projects that continue to be relevant today. From the museums of the Kunstareal district to the street art, here are the highlights of Munich’s vibrant art scene.

Old Pinakothek (Alte Pinakothek)

Classic art takes center stage at this well-known gallery, with old masters dominating. Don’t miss Rubens’ The Great Last Judgement, and enormous fresco almost 20 feet (6 meters) high.

New Pinakothek (Neue Pinakothek)

The New Pinakothek takes off where the Old Pinakothek leaves off. The galleries focus on the major European art movements of the 19th and 20th centuries, from Romanticism to impressionism.

Pinakothek der Moderne

The last of the Pinakotheks is devoted to 20th-century art, with Picasso, Dalí, and Warhol all represented. Space is also given to applied design, graphic arts, and architecture.

Museum Brandhorst

Pop art and abstract expressionism are among the 20th-century movements spotlighted at this contemporary art museum, including Cy Twombly’s Lepanto series and more than 100 of Andy Warhol’s pieces.

Haus der Kunst

Built in 1937, Haus der Kunst originally showcased only Nazi-approved work. After the fall of the Third Reich, the gallery turned its attention to artists banned by the Nazis, and now hosts innovative exhibitions of contemporary paintings, photography, sculpture, and more.

Urban Art

Though Berlin is still the epicenter of Germany’s urban art scene, Munich has its own rich collection of street art. Some of the best examples can be seen in the city’s pedestrian underpasses, such as the one that runs under the Angel of Peace monument (Friedensengel) near the Isar River. Urban art exhibitions can also be seen at MUCA, Munich’s Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art.

Host of the world’s largest beer festival, Munich has long been a mecca for beer lovers. But it isn't only Oktoberfest that scores fans—Bavarian food is some of Germany's most renowned. Here are some can't-miss dishes and food tours in Munich.

Must-Try Dishes

Nothing says Bavaria quite like a giant salted pretzel, brown and crusty on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. These treats are often served with a white sausage known as weisswurst and a cold beer. Meat lovers will drool over schweinshaxe, a roasted fall-off-the-bone-tender pig knuckle, typically served with a potato dumpling, red cabbage, or another must-try side dish, sauerkraut. Spaetzle, Germany's answer to pasta, are chewy dumplings tossed with cheese and fried shallots. No meal would be complete without dessert, and in Munich, that's often apfelstrudel, a traditional strudel made with apples and apple mousse.

Must-Do Experiences

• Take a day or nighttime food tour to sample some of Bavaria's best bites.

• Go behind the scenes at a Munich brewery to learn how the iconic German brew is made.

• Join in the festivities during Oktoberfest in autumn.

• Cycle the city in the morning and sip a cold beer in the evening with a combo tour.

From its medieval Old Town to its bustling outdoor markets, Nuremberg attracts visitors for more than its history. Learn about the famous Nuremberg trials, but also explore the city’s contemporary side during a beer tour or a cooking class. Here are a few ways to spend 24 hours in Nuremberg. 

Morning: Get Your Bearings

Begin a visit to Nuremberg with an introduction to the city’s history. Join a walking tour that explores the medieval Old Town and learn about Nuremberg during the Third Reich. You’ll visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds and see the Nuremberg Trial Courthouse, where the famous post–World War II trials were held. Hear stories about several other aspects of local history as well, from the city’s Roman roots to highlights of the German Renaissance, as you visit popular landmarks including Nuremberg Castle and St. Lawrence Church. Finally, go for a stroll along the River Pegnitz, and wander through an outdoor market. 

Afternoon: Taste Culinary Traditions

Devote your second day to Nuremberg’s culinary heritage with a food-themed tour. Join a local guide for a walking tour that features classic flavors from gingerbread to bratwurst. Opt for a tasting tour that visits restaurants and markets, or attend a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional dishes yourself. Alternatively—especially if you’re traveling with kids—spend the afternoon exploring the Nuremberg Zoo. See penguins at play, watch polar bears being fed, get up close to a giraffe, and visit goats and sheep in the petting zoo. 

Night: Explore an Outdoor Market

Germany is world famous for its beer, so as the sun sets, turn your attention to various kinds of local brew during a drinks-focused tour. Some itineraries include classic pubs, while others also bring in World War II history to the guided stroll. Nuremberg is also known for its traditional Christmas market (Christkindlesmarkt). Travelers visiting during the holidays may want to join a tour that includes the market and a tasting of seasonal flavors such as mulled wine. Private tours are also available that can be customized to your interests. 

Beyond its history as the site of famous World War II trials, Nuremberg has plenty to offer visitors. With two days in the Bavarian city, you’ll have time to join a local guide for a cooking class, explore the interiors of the medieval Imperial Palace, and try some German beer. Here are a few ways to spend 48 hours in Nuremberg. 

Day 1: Nuremberg History and Cuisine

**Morning:**Start your trip with an introduction to the history of Nuremberg during a walking tour. Join a guide for a stroll through the medieval Old Town, learning about the city’s Roman roots as you go. While hearing about the Third Reich and the trials held in Nuremberg after World War II, you’ll see infamous landmarks such as the Nazi Party Rally Grounds. 

**Afternoon:**When your appetite kicks in, it’s time for a food-themed tour. Choose between a culinary walking tour that visits several restaurants across the city and a cooking class that includes tips on how to prepare traditional German foods such as bratwurst. Be sure to taste local favorites such as gingerbread and red beer. 

**Night:**Discover Nuremberg after dark with a customized private tour. Your local guide will show you the city through their lens and take you to spots that are off most visitors’ radar. Share your interests and let your guide design a personalized tour that goes off the beaten path. 

Day 2: City Culture and Beer Culture

**Morning:**Take a cultural survey this morning, visiting the museums and landmarks that interest you most with the Nuremberg Card, which includes entry to all local attractions, including Albrecht Dürer´s House and the Imperial Palace. The pass also offers access to a range of transportation options, from buses and trams to the subway.

**Afternoon:**Continue your cultural explorations this afternoon, perhaps visiting the Nuremberg Transport Museum (DB Museum), Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum), or the National Germanic Arts and Culture Museum (Germanisches Nationalmuseum). Alternatively, especially if you have children in tow, explore the many landscapes of the Nuremberg Zoo.

**Night:**Spend your final evening in Nuremberg sipping traditional German beers during a tasting tour. Some itineraries combine World War II history with a walking tour that includes several classic pubs. If you’re visiting Nuremberg during the holiday season, be sure to stop by the city’s famous Christmas market and try the mulled wine. 

Home to the Nazi Party Rally Grounds (Reichsparteigelande), Nuremberg played a key role in Adolf Hitler's rule. Here are a few ways to learn about the rise and fall of the Third Reich, and see how world history was made in Nuremberg.

Experiences

• Gain insight into Third Reich history and the Nazi rallies held in Nuremberg between 1933 and 1945.

• Discover key sites of interest including Great Street (Grosse Strasse), designed by architect Albert Speer to be the central axis of the Nuremberg parade grounds.

• Visit the half-finished Congress Hall, a building Hitler planned to use for party meetings with other Nazi leaders and officials.

• See the Third Reich buildings where Hitler inspected members of the SS, the Nazi Party’s paramilitary organization.

• Learn about the Nuremberg Trials, a series of tribunals that took place in the city after World War II to prosecute prominent members of Nazi Germany for the war crimes they committed.

• Visit the Documentation Center, a Nazi Party Rally Grounds museum with exhibits on key wartime and postwar events—including the Nuremberg Trials—and their place in the histories of Germany and Europe.