Munich traces its history back to the Middle Ages. Marienplatz square is the city center—and you really can't miss it, between landmarks like New City Hall and the Marian Column. A train station is below the square, and all the city fans out from this central point. There's also a beautiful park in the city center—called, rather confusingly, English Garden. The modern art museum Neue Pinakothek is one of Munich's most highly reputed cultural attractions. For cool, funky art and culture, check out the area between Luisenstrasse and Tuerkenstrasse.

Oktoberfest is Munich's most famous season of the year, though contrary to popular belief, it takes place almost completely in September. Throngs of people go from tent to tent celebrating. To put things in perspective, a single tent might hold 100,000 people. The Christmas Market is a much calmer but also festive annual occasion, featuring lots of mulled wine and apfelstrudel.