Every year in late September, Munich welcomes throngs of visitors for its renowned Oktoberfest, a tradition that traces back to 1810 when Bavaria’s Prince Ludwig invited the citizens of Munich to celebrate his wedding. Today, Oktoberfest has grown into Germany’s most famous beer festival, drawing around six million visitors worldwide. Beyond the beer tents, Munich boasts a rich cultural heritage as the epicenter of the German Baroque movement, offering a blend of traditions and modernity that captivates visitors.
Lifelong Münchner Philipp Lahm, a football legend and former captain of the German national team, shares his insights into exploring Munich. Lahm reflects on the city’s welcoming spirit, urging visitors to embrace local traditions during Oktoberfest, from dressing in traditional attire to exploring the smaller tents favored by locals. He encourages visitors to venture beyond the festival grounds to discover Munich’s full beauty, from bustling markets to serene parks, including the stadium where Lahm played for over a decade.
One of Lahm’s favorite spots in Munich is Viktualienmarkt, a historic market where locals have gathered for over 200 years to indulge in gourmet treats. This market offers a glimpse into Munich’s culinary culture, with an array of local delicacies such as Bavarian cream doughnuts and the famous white sausage. The market’s beer garden provides a perfect setting to savor a pint under the shade of chestnut trees, immersing visitors in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
For breathtaking views of Munich and its surroundings, Lahm recommends Olympiapark, a sprawling park located just 7km from the city center. With its lush greenery and historical significance as the site of the 1972 Olympic Games, Olympiapark offers a blend of natural beauty and sporting heritage. Visitors can climb Olympiaberg for panoramic views or ascend the TV tower for a bird’s-eye perspective of Munich, including a glimpse of the majestic Alps on clear days.
Surprisingly, Munich’s Englischer Garten offers an unexpected outdoor experience in the heart of the city. This expansive park, opened in 1792, features the Eisbach river where visitors can witness urban surfing, a unique activity that has become a local phenomenon. The Englischer Garten’s whimsical design, complete with follies and lakes, provides a tranquil escape within the bustling city, offering a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages.
For a family-friendly cultural outing, Lahm suggests a visit to the Deutsches Museum, Europe’s largest science and technology museum. Located on Museum Island, the museum houses an extensive collection of exhibits spanning various fields, from astronautics to robotics. A trip to the museum offers an educational yet engaging experience for families, providing a welcome diversion from the lively festivities of Oktoberfest.
Football enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit the Allianz Arena, home to FC Bayern Munich and a symbol of the city’s football dominance. With its distinctive Bauhaus design, the Allianz Arena stands out as one of the world’s most iconic stadiums. Lahm reminisces about his personal connection to the stadium, where he made cherished memories representing his hometown on the global stage, including scoring a goal during the 2006 World Cup.
Munich’s allure extends beyond Oktoberfest, offering a blend of cultural, culinary, and natural experiences that captivate visitors. Lahm’s insider guide provides a glimpse into the city’s multifaceted charm, inviting travelers to explore Munich’s rich tapestry of traditions and modernity, ensuring an unforgettable visit to this vibrant Bavarian capital.
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