Munich Travel Videos

Munich (German: München) is the capital city of Bavaria, the largest federal state of Germany (by area - not by population). Within the city limits, Munich has a population of more than 1.3 million, making it the third most populous city in Germany. The urban area, which sprawls on the foothills of the Alps, has a population of about 2.7 million.

Munich is noted for its architecture and culture, and the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration is world famous. Munich's cultural scene is second to none in Germany, with the museums even considered by some to outrank Berlin in quality. Many travelers to Munich are absolutely stunned by the quality of the architecture. Although it was heavily damaged by allied bombing during World War II, many of its historic buildings have been rebuilt and the city center appears mostly as it did in the late 1800s.

When Germans are polled about where they would most like to live, Munich finds its way consistently at the top of the list. Within easy driving distance of the Alps, and some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, it's not surprising that everyone wants to live here! Add to its benefit the beautiful architecture, especially Baroque and Rococo, green countryside which starts a mere half hour away on the S-Bahn, the second largest university in Germany, and the greatest beer culture on the planet; could there be anything wrong with Munich? Yes and no. The Bavarians are very conservative (although, Munich itself traditionally has a Social Democratic municipal council), to the point of being reactionary. This can make it tough to get to know them, and at the very least, will lead to more than a few raised eyebrows at your ripped denim shorts.