DK Travel : Munich

Of the city he lived in for many years, 20th-century writer Thomas Mann said that “Munich glows”. And indeed, the sky is often a brilliant blue dotted with puffy white clouds in “Italy’s northernmost city”, where the relaxed, often Baroque lifestyle gives it a southern flair. Englischer Garten and the Isar meadows are right in the middle of the city; Starnberger See and the mountains are virtually on the doorstep. But Munich is also a city of art and culture with an abundance of historic buildings, museum treasures, and a lively cultural scene. Fine art, leisure, and la dolce vita make this a unique city.

For Munich on the Internet, visit www.muenchen.de With 1.3 million inhabitants, Munich is Germany’s third-largest city.

Isar Bridges

From the bridges that cross the Isar you can enjoy wonderful views of the river and the cityscape. One of the most historically important is the Ludwigsbrücke, between Deutsches Museum and Müller’sches Volksbad. Henry the Lion ordered that the bridge, built in 1157–58 by the Bishop of Freising, be demolished (it was located near today’s Oberföhring).This meant the salt road was diverted – effectively usurping lucrative customs fees from the bishopric. Henry then ordered a new bridge built farther to the south – where today’s Ludwigsbrücke stands. The new bridge, by which Benedictine monks had settled, was quickly surrounded by a thriving settlement later called München (literally, “near the monks”).
Isartor & Valentin-Musäum

Dedicated to the city’s favourite son, Karl Valentin (1882–1948), the Valentin-Musäum is situated in the south tower of the Isartor (14th century). A small room in the tower furnished in turn-of-the-19th-century style houses a café.
Iwan

Trendy destination with a bar and restaurant on two floors. The courtyard is packed in summer. You’ll enjoy the European-Asian cuisine, which is offered at a lower price during lunchtime. Iwan’s is known for excellent cocktails and friendly service. During the day, the crowd is mixed, but at night you’ll encounter the gay scene’s in-crowd. Whether you’re gay or not, you’ll feel comfortable and be entertained.
Japanalia

From Japanese teaware to crafts, kimonos, and furniture, Japanalia features a wide range of new, old, and antiquarian objects.
Jazzbar Vogler

Fabulous blues and jazz venue. Mon–Sat.
Jogging

Munich boasts many small and large parks (see Gardens & Parks) that are perfect for jogging. The most beautiful paths are to be found in the Englischer Garten and along the banks of the Isar. If you don’t like to jog on your own, Road-Runners, a local organization, will put you in touch with a group of runners at your level.
Joseph Vilsmaier

Successful director (1939–) of biopics, among others the 1997 Comedian Harmonists .
Jugendherberge MünchenNeuhausen

Youth hostel near RotKreuz-Platz, a 10-minute U-Bahn ride to downtown. Shared bathrooms and showers on each floor, breakfast buffet. Full board or dinner-only meal plans are available. Youth hostel pass required.
Julep’s

Rustic American ambience with barkeepers who are trained to mix some 200 cocktails, although you can also simply stand at the counter and drink a beer straight out of the bottle. Classics such as lobster and Tex-Mex dishes characterize the menu in the dining area.
Julep’s

Rustic American bar with dining room (Tex-Mex and American dishes). Bartenders mix some 200 different cocktails.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes, and extra charges.
- under 60 €
- 60–100 €
- 100–150 €
- 150–200 €
- over 200 €