Munich City Guide

Located to the north of the Bavarian Alps, on the River Isar, Munich (München) is Germany's third largest city, and is where the country's wealthy trendsetters like to ‘see and be seen'.

People and places
The citizens of Munich demonstrate a cosmopolitan refinement as well as genuine passion for the region's many traditions. Tourists flock to the city for the world famous Oktoberfest, to indulge in an orgy of revelry alongside Lederhosen-clad Bavarians, all quaffing vast quantities of beer and sausage. However, there's more to Munich than this stereotypical image, thanks to its strong cultural scene, richly endowed art collections, romantic palaces and excellent shopping. It is also  the home of BMW cars and centre of the German film industry. Indeed, from balmy summers in the beer gardens to the glittering Christmas markets during snowy winters, Munich is a popular destination all year round.

History
The name München (‘home of the monks') stems from an early monastery founded in the eighth century. The local monasteries started the beer brewing traditions for which Munich is still renowned. The city was founded by Duke Henry the Lion in 1158, and soon became the seat of the Wittelsbach dynasty, who ruled the duchy, electorate and kingdom of Bavaria until the end of WWI. Their patronage of the arts and extensive collections provided the basis for this affluent city's world-class museums, theatres and galleries. Despite considerable wartime damage during WWII (when Munich was an important centre for National Socialism), the city has been impressively restored and is now one of the nation's most popular tourist destinations.