Munich and Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the heart of Munich, the capital of Bavaria, a grand central square dominated by the ornate New Town Hall whose famous glockenspiel sends painted mechanical figures dancing on the hour. Around it spread the old town, the great churches, the bustling Viktualienmarkt food market and the legendary beer halls, making it the gateway to prosperous, cheerful, Alpine southern Germany.

What to look for

• The glockenspiel - the mechanical figures that dance on the Town Hall clock.
• The beer halls - the famous Hofbrauhaus and the Bavarian beer culture.
• The Viktualienmarkt - the lively central food market.
• The churches and Residenz - the Frauenkirche towers and the royal palace.

When to go

Late spring to autumn for warm weather and beer gardens; late September for the Oktoberfest; December for the Christmas markets. The glockenspiel plays at set times through the day.

Practical notes

During the Oktoberfest the city is packed and prices soar, so plan around it either way. The glockenspiel, while charming, is a brief and much-hyped spectacle. Munich is prosperous and can be pricey. It is best as a base for the city and the Alps beyond.

Nearby

The Nymphenburg Palace and the English Garden are in the city; the Alps and Neuschwanstein are within reach.