One of the easiest ways to visit Germany from India is to take a direct flight to Munich from Delhi. I don’t know about you, but direct flights and I have a long-standing love affair. Every time I decide on a destination, the first thing I look for are the availability of direct flights.
So there I was an eight-hour direct flight from the Indian capital later and I was standing in Munich, ready to begin my European adventures. The thing is, though Munich is absolutely lovely, my intentions were to spend a day in the Bavarian capital and then head off to the Netherlands. So the question was – how to maximise my 24 hours in Munich?
If you’ve faced such a dilemma, fret not. Here’s a quick guide on how to spend 24 hours in Munich:
Delve into contemporary art at AltePinakothek
One of the oldest museums in the world, it has paintings by the old masters from 13th-18th centuries. Located in the Art District, the best way to soak in some art is to visit the other two Pinakotheken museums – NeuePinakothek and the Pinakothek der Moderne – too. Together, they house about 800 paintings and serves as a journey into the history of art.
Behave like a local at Viktualienmarkt
Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s outdoor farmer’s market. The various stalls sell flowers, fruits, game, spices, cheese, beer, sausages and so much more. I had some of the freshest strawberries from a small fruit seller here, all reasonably priced. You can spend hours here as you take in the aromas and your stomach grumbles after a visual treat.
Stroll through the Englisch Garten
The man-made 18th century Englisch Garten is massive, even larger than Central Park in Manhattan. The garden has birds, fields and beer! The flowers and trees along the path make the stroll all the more enjoyable!
Let Nymphenburg Palace impress you
The Nymphenburg Palace is an impressive sight. The gardens are modeled after those in Versailles and include two small lakes and four smaller mansions. The construction began in 1664 under Prince Ferdinand Maria. It was later expanded and used as the Wittelsbachs’ summer residence. King Ludwig II was even born here.
Look up Michael Jackson
Michael Jackson has always been loved in Munich and a massive memorial has been built for him below the statue of the Renaissance composer Orlande de Lassus. The memorial of the beloved singer is visited by many fans each day.
Enjoy the Bavarian food and beer culture
Germans love their food and beer. Munich is filled with beer gardens, with many even having playgrounds for children. In fact, the world-famous Oktoberfest is celebrated in the city for which millions descend, just to drink beer! With the beer, munch on local delicacies or traditional German food such as sausages, pretzels, sauerkraut and schnitzels.
Tip: If you have more time on your hands, head to Neuschwanstein Castle on a day trip. The castle inspired Walt Disney and makes for stunning photographs. The castle is easily accessible so one can do it individually or with a tour group.
