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.

Ayinger

A small village brewery in Aying, home of a dozen world-famous beers.
Baader Café

Reasonable prices and a gregarious student clientele.
Bad Tölz

Located where the Isar River surfaces from an Alpine valley and flows into the sub-Alpine foothills, Bad Tölz is a popular spa and winter resort. On the right side of the river lies the picturesque old town, with its impressive Marktstraße lined with ornate st ucco-work façades, mot tos, and frescoes. Alpamare, one of Germany’s largest waterparks, is favoured by spa guests and fun-seekers alike. A big annual attraction is the Leonhardifahrt, on 6 November, a procession in honour of St Leonhard, patron saint of horses. It is one of the largest processions in traditional costume in Upper Bavaria.
Ballet Week

Staatsballett and guest performances.
Bally Prell

Decked out in colourful costumes, she recited rhymes to delighted audiences (1922–82).
Bar Centrale

This chic Italian day-and-evening bar is perfect for morning espresso or a delicious cocktail at night.
Bar Centrale

Italian bar open day and night. At the front, where there are also a few tables on the pavement, the air is filled with the heady aroma of espresso, while 1960s decor dominates the area at the rear. Outstanding cocktails, pasta dishes, and bar snacks.
Barista

Basement bar in the Fünf Höfe complex. Friendly daytime spot for lunches and light meals. Cocktail bar at night.
Bau

A haven for fans of jeans, leather, latex, and uniforms, this huge bar offers moderate prices. The two floors alternate between brightly lit and darker, more intimate areas. This is definitely a place for tough guys – and for those drawn to them.
Bavaria

Munich’s tallest “female,” Bavaria stands 18.5 m (59 ft) high. She holds an oak wreath in her hand, while a lion, Bavaria’s heraldic beast, lies at her feet. Designed by Ludwig Schwanthaler and cast by Ferdinand von Miller, the statue (1840–50) was a masterpiece of technological achievement at the time, incorporating an observation platform in the head (see Statue of Bavaria). Klenze’s Ruhmeshalle, with busts honouring famous Bavarians, stands behind the colossal statue.