There’s nothing quite like Oktoberfest. Held at the Theresienwiese fairgrounds, this lively annual festival runs from late September to early October, drawing in millions of visitors every year. Revellers don traditional lederhosen and dirndls to enjoy hearty Bavarian fare, endless beer, singing and dancing in a spirited atmosphere. It's a cultural celebration like no other, but be sure to plan ahead – accommodation fills up quickly.

A former royal palace, the Munich Residence, or Residenz, showcases centuries of Bavarian history through its exquisite interiors and extensive art collections. Explore nearly 90 open spaces, including the Ancestral Gallery and Rich Chapel, renowned for its coloured marble and gilded details. Other highlights include the Antiquarium – a stunning Renaissance hall adorned with frescoes – and the opulent rococo Reiche Zimmer (rich rooms).

Perched above the Pöllat Gorge in the Bavarian Alps, Schloss Neuschwanstein stands out among Germany’s many castles. Commissioned in 1868 by Bavaria’s King Ludwig II, this masterpiece remains unfinished yet still captures hearts worldwide. With its dreamy turrets, stunning alpine views and murals inspired by Richard Wagner’s operas, the castle belongs in a fairytale.

In the heart of the old town lies the bustling Marienplatz Square. In this hive of activity, watch the famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel mechanical clock reenact historical tales, sit down for coffee and cake or, if you visit during the holiday season, soak up the festive atmosphere at the Christmas market. Just steps away, the Viktualienmarkt offers everything from farm-fresh produce to unique souvenirs – it’s the perfect place to embrace the city's spirit on your Munich holiday.

A landlocked city may not seem like the most likely place to surf, but Munich is full of surprises. At the entrance to the English Garden, the Eisbach River is home to a year-round wave (known as the Eisbachwelle) that draws experienced surfers from around the globe. Even simply watching the surfers skilfully navigate the rushing waters is an unforgettable experience.

More than a shopping destination, Maximilianstrasse is a visual feast steeped in history. This royal boulevard, one of Munich’s grandest, hosts designer boutiques alongside gourmet shops, fine-dining restaurants and chic bars. The street’s neo-Gothic and Renaissance architecture – featuring landmarks like the Old Mint Yard and Maximilianeum – adds to its allure, making it one of the best places to visit in Munich for both shoppers and sightseers.

Wondering what to do in Munich, rain or shine? Raise a stein at the historic Hofbräuhaus, Munich's iconic beer hall. Famous for its weissbier (wheat beer), hearty Bavarian dishes and the centuries-old atmosphere filled with traditional oompah music, the Hofbräuhaus offers a quintessential German experience.

Take a stroll through Kunstareal, the city’s lush museum quarter to discover dozens of museums and art galleries. Among the highlights, the Alte Pinakothek is one of the top things to see in Munich thanks to its vast collection of European masterpieces by the likes of Raphael, Rembrandt and Dürer. The nearby Glyptothek specialises in Greek and Roman art, while the Brandhorst houses a spectacular collection of contemporary art within its striking multi-coloured ceramic façade.

Just south of the Viktualienmarkt, Gärtnerplatzviertel is a hip contrast to the old town. In this trendy neighbourhood, Spanish tapas, sushi joints, vegan fashion boutiques, vinyl record shops and cocktail bars line every corner. Join the locals at Gärtnerplatz, a circular centre garden surrounded by flower beds and colourful low-rise buildings, then end the day with a performance at the state theatre, housed in a beautifully preserved building dating back to 1865.

A vibrant space born from the 1972 Olympics, Olympiapark is one of Munich’s top attractions. Home to the iconic Olympic Tower, the city’s highest beer garden, and thrilling activities like rooftop climbing and ziplining, the park has something for everyone. Beyond sports, the park also hosts the annual Summer Festival, has a family-friendly adventure aquarium, and offers boat hire, a picnic space and ice skating.