Munich is the capital city of Bavaria, the largest federal state of Germany. There are over 1.3 million people living in the city. This city is best known for its museums, galleries, and memorials. Many consider Munich to have a better quality of museums then even Berlin. The architecture here is also stunning. Although during WWII some of the buildings were damaged, they have been fully restored and look better then ever. Many college students think of Oktoberfest when they think of Munich. This annual festival is synonymous with crazy drunken fun. If you are studying abroad during the fall semester, this is a great weekend trip with your roommates or buddies. But don’t think there isn’t much more to do in the spring and summer. No matter what time of year you come, really, there will be plenty of exciting things to see and do. Entertaining people and great beer wherever you turn.
Museums and galleries will take up a big chunk of your time in Munich. Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is a major stop for any visitor here. You take a tour around the facility with audio accompany. Deutsches Museum is the largest technical museum in the world with hands on interactive models. Natural science meets the technical side here. The Pinakotheken holds 15-18th century religious paintings, the Neue Pinakothek 19-20th century Impressionist and Expressionist art and the Pinakothek der Moderne has 20th century paintings, modern art, design, and architecture sections. National Bavarian Museum is an important cultural history museum. Works from the middle ages to the 20th century can be found here. The Jewish Museum showcases the history, art, and culture of the Jewish people in Munich Germany throughout history, and more importantly during the holocaust. Schloss Nymphenburg is an incredibly large castle that was the summer residence of the rulers of Bavaria. Hirschgarten beer garden is just around the corner from the castle. Oktoberfest is of course the main event and spectacle in the city. Every October this festival takes over. Although the summer has the best weather, this is the most exciting time to come. Enjoy fine beers and traditional German snacks, like bratwurst.