Compiled by FatPassport's travel experts

Visitors come to Munich to enjoy the traditional German culture, beer gardens and fantastic Bavarian cooking. Justifiably known for beer and Oktoberfest, Munich also offers a first-rate cultural experience. With museums, galleries, castles, palaces & parks to stimulate your cultural side - and the nearby Dachau concentration camp - boredom is not an option in Munich.

From nearly all points in the city you can see the two towers of the Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady), the largest church in Munich. Ascend the south tower for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas.

In the region are several famed castles that make for great day trips; the best known is stunning Neuschwanstein.

All types of travelers will find something here, and while the locals are conservative, they are also warm and friendly as long as travelers respect their ways. For those traveling with kids, the combination of castles and the hands-on Deutsches Museum provide basis for an enjoyable few days.

The largest, most popular festival in Munich is Oktoberfest. It’s an epic scene with hordes of tourists descending on the city and partaking in a drunken blur. If you’re coming to party, you’ll be coming to the right place.

The mountains are within about an hour’s drive of Munich, and this provides options for hiking, cycling, and skiing. You won’t find the chic resorts of Switzerland or Austria, but if you would like to include a day or two of skiing in your Munich vacation, then it’s a fine option.

It’s possible to find accommodations at all prices, from hostels to world-renowned hotels. However, being one of the top-rated cities in Germany means Munich is a slightly pricier place to visit than other German cities.

Munich is cold in winter, but gets pleasant weather from late spring to early fall. In December Munich comes alive for the Christmas holidays, with various local Christmas markets around the city and a huge Christmas tree in Marienplatz.