ALL ABOUT MUNICH

Kloster Andechs - How good is this place?

We just love it here and have been out dozens of times for the beautiful scenery, great food, and beer.

Do yourself a favor and come out here to visit this magical place.

Would you like to explore the natural beauty of Bavaria's Lakes alongside the team from Absolute Munich? If this sounds appealing to you, we invite you to take a look at our comprehensive guide featuring the 20 Best Lakes in Bavaria (The Southern Edition).

While we have previously covered Lakes In Munich (The Best Lakes For Swimming Around Munich), this article takes us a little further beyond the metro area of Munich.

All the lakes we discuss in this blog post are easily accessible from Munich. Although we haven't visited every single one of them yet, we have explored the majority!

These lakes offer diverse and unique experiences, boasting breathtaking views as a standard feature. From the crystal-clear waters to the stunning surrounding landscapes, trust us when we say that Bavaria's lakes have something for everyone.

With numerous lakes to choose from, deciding which ones to visit can be challenging. That's where we come in with our handpicked selection of what we believe to be the 20 Best Lakes in Southern Bavaria.

If you're a beer enthusiast, then there's no better time to visit Munich than during the Starkbierfest, or the Strong Beer Festival. Held annually during the spring season, this event is a celebration of dark and strong beer that's sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. At Absolute Munich, we've been to this festival many times before, and we can attest to the fact that it's an experience you won't soon forget. So, what exactly is the Starkbierfest all about? Let's dive in and find out.

What is the Strong Beer Festival?

The Strong Beer Fest is a beer festival that takes place in Munich, Germany, usually around late February or early March. It's a celebration of strong beer, also known as "Starkbier" in German, which has a higher alcohol content than regular beer. This festival is a traditional event that's been held in Munich for over 500 years, with the first documented Starkbierfest taking place in 1751.

What Makes the Strong Beer Festival So Special?

Aside from the fact that the Starkbierfest celebrates strong beer, there are several other things that make this festival unique. For one, the festival is held in the Paulaner brewery, which is located in the heart of Munich. This means that you'll be able to sample some of the best beer in the world while surrounded by the very place where it's brewed. Additionally, the festival is known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Bavarian music, which creates a definite festive and memorable experience. Of course, they do have very similar music at the world's biggest beer festival - Oktoberfest - but it's certainly not backed by beer as strong as what you'll find here.

What Types of Beer Can You Expect to Find at the Strong Beer Festival?

As the name suggests, the Starkbierfest is all about strong beer. You can expect to find a wide variety of dark and rich beers with higher alcohol content than regular beer. Some of the most popular types of beer at the festival include Doppelbock, Dunkel, and Salvator, which is the beer that started it all. In addition to beer, there's also a variety of Bavarian Cuisine available, such as Schweinshaxe (pork knuckles), Bratwurst (sausages), and pretzels.

What Should You Know Before Attending the Starkbierfest?

If you're planning on attending the Starkbierfest, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, the festival can get quite crowded, so it's a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot at whatever venue you choose. However, you should note that the Strong Beer Festival is not an all-day event as you'd experience at the other two big beer festivals in the city (Oktoberfest and Frühlingsfest). Additionally, some of the location's festivities are held in large tents at different venues, so it's a good idea to dress warmly as it can get quite chilly inside. Lastly, make sure to pace yourself when it comes to drinking as the strong beer can pack a punch.

How Can You Get to the Strong Beer Festival?

The Starkbierfest's primary location in the city is at the Paulaner brewery in their Festsaal (festival hall) at Nockherberg, which is located in the Au-Haidhausen district of Munich. Both the Löwenbräukeller and the Augustiner-Bräu also hold events as do a few other small city breweries and beer halls across the city. The easiest way to get there is by taking public transportation, such as the U-Bahn or S-Bahn, both of which have stops near the brewery. Additionally, there are plenty of taxis available in Munich, or you can even rent a bike and cycle your way to the festival.

How Much Does it Cost to Attend the Starkbierfest?

Entry to the Starkbierfest is dictated by each venue. Some charge an entry fee that includes a drink, and some a lesser fee that does not. None of the entry fees include food so you will need to purchase beer and food separately to enjoy the festival's offerings. These tickets can be purchased at the festival itself and typically it's around 12 euros for a liter of beer and similar for the cheapest meal. It's best to bring cash for any food or drink payments.

What Else is There to Do in Munich During the Starkbierfest?

While the Starkbierfest is undoubtedly the main event, there are plenty of other things to do in Munich during the festival. You can take a stroll through historic Marienplatz in the Aldstadt and visit the iconic Frauenkirche, discover sensational Museums in the art quarter (Kunstareal) such as the Munich Egyptian Museum (Staatliche Museum Ägyptischer Kunst), or even go skiing in the nearby Alps over on the Zugspitz, Germany's Highest Mountain. Munich is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, so there's never a shortage of things to see and do.

What Can You Expect at the Starkbierfest?

The Starkbierfest is a unique experience that showcases the best of Bavarian culture. Visitors can expect to be surrounded by a sea of people dressed in traditional Bavarian attire, drinking steins of strong and flavorful beer, and enjoying delicious Bavarian cuisine. The festival features live music fused with various entertainment elements all fused to create an overall festive atmosphere that's sure to make your visit to Munich unforgettable.

A Very Brief History of the Starkbierfest

The Starkbierfest has a rich history that dates back over 500 years. In the 17th century, the Paulaner monks created a special beer called "Salvator" that was rich and full-bodied, with a higher alcohol content than regular beer. They used this beer to help sustain them during their Lenten fast, and it quickly became popular with the locals. In 1751, the first documented Starkbierfest was held in Munich to celebrate the end of the fasting period, and it has been held annually ever since.

Tips for Attending the Starkbierfest

If you're planning on attending the Starkbierfest, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit: - Arrive early to secure a spot in the tent - Dress warmly, as it can get chilly inside the tents - Bring cash, as lines for credit card transactions can be long - Pace yourself when it comes to drinking, as the beer is strong - Take advantage of the delicious Bavarian cuisine available at the festival - Be prepared for crowds, as the festival is a popular event

Strong Beer Festival Dates

2023 Starkbier Nockherberg Munich - March 10th to April 2nd 2024 Starkbier Nockherberg Munich – Dates not announced as yet 2025 Starkbier Nockherberg Munich – Dates not announced as yet 2026 Starkbier Nockherberg Munich – Dates not announced as yet 2027 Starkbier Nockherberg Munich – Dates not announced as yet

Other Beer Festivals in Munich

Munich is known for its beer culture and is home to several other beer festivals throughout the year. The most famous of these is Oktoberfest, which is held annually in September and attracts millions of visitors from around the world. However, there are several other festivals worth checking out, including the Frühlingsfest in spring, the Auer Dult in summer, and the Winter Tollwood Festival in December.

Getting Around Munich During The Strong Beer Festival

Munich is a relatively compact city, and most attractions are within walking distance or accessible by public transportation. The city has an extensive network of buses, trams, and trains, and tickets can be purchased at any station or on the bus. Biking is also a popular way to get around Munich, and there are several bike rental companies located throughout the city. Read our article on Getting Around Munich for the best information on the topic.

Absolute Munich’s Final Thoughts on the Strong Beer Festival

Munich is a city with plenty of public transportation options so you can easily travel around Munich without a car. However, since driving also means flexibility, you might be considering converting your foreign driving license to a German Driving License. After all, by having this license, you can also drive in almost all European countries. Depending on your country of origin, there are different steps to apply for a German Driving License but the process can be easily managed by lodging a conversion application (Umschreibung) However, for some, depending on your country of origin, it might mean completing a theory and/or a practical German Driving Test as YOUR country may not have reciprocal driving license agreements with Germany. In this post, we’ll outline step-by-step how to get a driver's license in Munich as a foreigner, plus we'll cover all the important topics about German Driving & getting a German Drivers License such as costs, time required, license testing, and much more.

How to apply for a German Driving License?

Before you start looking into applying for a German driving licence (Class B), you must - possess a valid driving licence from your country of origin. If your licence is outdated, you can only renew it in your country of origin. - registered as a Residence. This is necessary for locals and foreigners who will be living in Munich over a 6-months period. If you haven't done so, here is a guide to arranging a KVR appointment. If the above criteria apply to you, you should then identify if your licence has a Reciprocal Agreement with Germany If your driving licence was issued by an EU/ EEA country, you are valid to drive in Germany until its expiry date. So it’s not necessary for you to convert it. However, it is also possible to exchange for a German licence as described below. For licence holders who have the licenced issued in the countries listed below, you can simply exchange your foreign licence for a German Class B licence without completing a practical driving or theoretical test. Here are the Countries with Reciprocal Agreements allowing driving licenses to be exchanged in Germany. Here are the Countries with Reciprocal Agreements allowing driving licenses to be exchanged in Germany. · Andorra· Japan· Switzerland·  Australia (South Australia, Tasmania, or Victoria has full reciprocity. Other states require an up-to-date eye test)·  Jersey·  Serbia·  Bosnia and Herzegovina·  Monaco·  Singapore·  Canada·  Namibia·  South Africa· French Polynesia·  New Caledonia·  United Kingdom·  Guernsey·  New Zealand·  USA* (check in the Staatenliste list below to see all states with no, full or partial reciprocity)·  Isle of Man·  Republic of Korea·  Israel·  San Marino If your country is not listed here, you will be likely to be required to do the theory and/or practical exam. The country list here shows the specific requirements for you to convert for a German license. (From the link, go to the Downloads section under *"Staatenliste")

How to exchange a foreign licence with reciprocity

Licence holders with reciprocity are certainly considered the lucky ones. As long as you have all your documents well prepared, completion of the process takes only around 4- weeks. Keep in mind though, this needs to be done within the first six months of your stay in Munich. 1. Booking Appointment At The Driving License Office (Führerscheinstelle) This is probably your biggest challenge: booking an appointment with the Führerscheinstelle (driving license office). Through the muenchen.de link, by clicking Umschreibung eines ausländischen Führerscheins, you will able to Termin verinbaren (arrange an appointment). If you're already familiar with booking appointments at the KVR, you know it's often full and it also only releases appointments one month ahead of time. So make sure you start looking for an appointment as early as possible. As suggested by the Führerscheinstelle, additional spots are opened during the day and early in the mornings. So you just have to be like an eagle, and keep your eyes out.  2. Prepare and present the required Documents at the appointment The following documents are to be presented in the appointment. Allow yourself plenty of time to prepare them. Any missing documents could mean application rejection or delays. ·  Identity card or passport ·  Biometric passport photo ·  Original valid foreign driving licence ·  Translation of the foreign driving license (ADAC, Lingoking, IDA are options for driving license translation) ·  Eye test certificate (see below for details) ·  Proof of the duration of possession of the foreign driving licence (If this is not indicated on your licence, you would have to contact your local driving licence office for the record) ·  Your first Anmeldung (registration) certificate in Germany If the Führerscheinstelle accepts your application, to proceed, you will be required to hand in your foreign licence to be verified by the State Criminal Police Office. This would take around 2-3 weeks 3. Exchange of German Licence and Payment If everything sails smoothly, you will be able to collect your new licence within 4-6 weeks. A letter will be posted to you with payment instructions and collection date and time. The application cost of the Umschreibung is 36.30Euro At the collection, note that you might have to hand in your foreign driving licence for the “exchange”. Common questions on the application for a German driving licence with Reciprocity: How long does it take for approval of the German licence application? It usually takes 4-6 weeks, but it can take up to 8 weeks. What are the typical costs for the application: Eye test: 10-20Euro (usually is free if you purchase glasses at the Optometrist) ADAC translation: 65.00Euro Application cost: 36.30Euro

How to exchange a foreign licence without reciprocity

For countries without reciprocity with Germany, unfortunately, the process will take longer and will be more expensive. Depending on where the licence is issued, you may be required to complete all or a combination of the following: ·  Register with (Fahrschule) Driving school ·  First aid course ·  Eye-test ·  Theoretical test ·  Practical driving test  Here's the list of different countries with their requirements. 1. Sign up with a driving school (Fahrschule) You will need to register for a Fahrschule to take theory and practical tests to exchange for a German licence. Luckily, there are many schools that offer English. You can do a search from Fahrschule-123 or Clickclickdrive. When you register with a Fahrschule, you'll most probably need to present your eye test and First aid course certificate. Some schools can assist with these arrangements otherwise. From the driving school, you'll receive a plan and information package for your theory and practice lessons. You'll also be provided with a car to complete your driving practice with your driving instructor.  2. Complete a First Aid Course The Erste Hilfe Kurs (first aid course) is typically 6-7 hours long and can be taken in several sessions and cost somewhere between 20-50Euros. This may occur to be a time and money-consuming process, but you'll really benefit from these lifelong skills and knowledge.  3. Complete an Eye Test There is a handful of First Aid course providers that offer English and also facilitates eye test (Sehtestbescheinigung) for a small additional cost. Notfallmedizine is one of these and has several branches in Munich. Otherwise, many local opticians offer certified eye tests with results on the same day.  4. Book and attend an Appointment with the Führerscheinstelle Before any tests, you'll need to have an appointment with the Führerscheinstelle. After an evaluation of your driving-related documents (listed below), you'll be confirmed if you can proceed with further examination with TÜV. Do try to book ahead of time, as spots can be filled very quickly. Here's the link for booking the appointment with the Führerscheinstelle. Click Umschreibung eines ausländischen Führerscheins to Termin verinbaren (arrange an appointment). ·  Identity card or passport ·  Biometric passport photo ·  Original valid foreign driving licence ·  Translation of the foreign driving license (ADAC, Lingoking, IDA are options for driving license translation) ·  Proof of the duration of possession of the foreign driving licence (If this is not indicated on your licence, you would have to contact your local driving licence office for the record) ·  Eye test certificate ·  First Aid Course certificate 5. Completing the Theoretical test Before taking the theoretical test, your driving school will typically enrol you on a 14 double lessons course comprised of 90 minutes each. To enhance the chance to pass, many will use extra training materials such as apps/software to practice. We recommend this too. Here's a sample of driving theory test offered by TÜV, but there are many options in the market. Your driving school will certainly give you more suggestions. The theory test is composed of 30 multiple-choice questions. You can only pass the test if you have not been deducted a total amount of 10 points. German driving regulations and signs do vary from different countries, so it's advised to learn and study for the exam. This would also benefit you when driving on German roads later. If you prefer to take the exam in your Muttersprache (mother tongue), these languages are also available: English, French, Greek, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Croatian, Spanish, Turkish and Arabic Cost of Theoretical test Theoretical test by TÜV: 22,49Euro. 6. Practical Driving Test Driving lessons are optional. It's however recommended to take a course to refresh your driving skills and learn the requirements in Germany. Especially if you've never driven in a snowing country, it's a good idea to learn the relevant skills. The driving exam will last around 45mins and will begin with your examiner asking you 3-5 general questions about the car. They're related to basic safety knowledge, like the function and/or condition of the tires, headlights etc. The exam continues with instructions given by the examiner. Note, during the test, the examiner will sit at the back, while your driving instructor is in the passenger seat. It will be conducted in German. If you want to polish your German before the test, here are some online German learning platforms here. At the end of the round, you'll be informed of your results. If you have passed the exam, congratulations! You'll receive a slip that allows you to drive until your official driver's licence arrives. For unsuccessful candidates, retakes of exams are possible. You are allowed to retake the exam 2 times within a 2 weeks interval. With three-plus fails, the waiting time will be extended. Cost of Driving Test Theoretical test by TÜV: 116,93Euro. Fee from driving school: around 100Euro Yes, it's a hefty fee. So is wise to plan with your driving school to maximize your chance to pass the test.  7. Appointment with the Führerscheinstelle This should be your last appointment with the Führerscheinstelle and should be easy-peasy and you can prepare your celebratory champagne! You are here to pick up your new German licence and hand in your original foreign licence for the exchange.

Conclusion

The German authority takes driving very seriously and when changing your foreign driving to a German one, you should bear in mind the time and cost that will be involved. We hope after reading our post, you understand the application better and hence are able to prepare without begin daunted by confusion. Here, we are providing you with a summary of steps for conversion of a German license issued outside of EU/EAA without reciprocity. 1. Register to a Fahrschule (driving licence school) 2.   Completion of First Aid Course 3.   Completion of Eye Test 4.   Register with the Führerscheinstelle with the required documents 5.   Complete and pass theoretical training (14 double hours) 7.   Complete and pass the practical training (at least 12 driving hours) and oh la, you can finally receive your German license and drive on the free-speed Autobahn! We wish you Viel Erfolg (success) and Zeig's ihnen (Go get'em)!!!

Weissenburger Platz is a picturesque Munich square located in the Haidhausen district of Munich. Not really “hidden” obviously, but certainly, Weissenburger Platz is off the beaten Munich tourist track that's for sure. The centerpiece of the square is the beautiful Glaspalast-Brunnen fountain, which was designed by August von Voit in 1853 and has been a popular meeting spot west of the River Isar for well over a century. Whilst there’s not a lot to this fun inner-city pedestrian square besides the flora and fountain, the area surrounding is fabulous, local, and inviting. We hope you enjoy this short read on Weissenburger Platz, the fountain, and the Haidhausen district and we’d love to hear from you about your experiences in the area.

Augsburg is the oldest city in the state of Bavaria and is Germany's third-largest city. Founded by the Romans in 15 BC Augsburg has a long, rich, and turbulent history. The city’s age and historical significance, as well as the fact that it is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage site, ensures the city is a very popular destination for tourists traveling through Bavaria. With its fabulous old town of charming streets and hidden squares, Augsburg is a vibrant and lively city steeped in history, and in our opinion, is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bavaria. We love Augsburg and we hope that this guide we’ve put together will help you to discover everything that this beautiful and historic city has to offer from stunning architecture to a vibrant arts scene and its delicious regional cuisine. Trust us when we say Augsburg has something for everyone, is one of the Best Cities to Visit in Bavaria, and we're confident that you'll fall in love with this amazing city, just as we have!

Augsburg History | A Brief Overview

Whilst there have been indications of a Bronze Age settlement here on the location where Augsburg now stands it was, as we previously mentioned, officially founded as a settlement by the Romans in 15BC. Nero Claudius Drusus was the first Roman military leader to launch a campaign across the Rhine in an effort to conquer the tribes of Germania, and it was here that he maintained a “base of operations” in the area.  Interesting to note is that the town played a significant role in the defense of the region against invading forces over the years also, such as the Hungarians, who were decisively defeated by King Otto I in 955.  Augsburg's status as an imperial free city, granted in 1276, likely contributed to its growth and prosperity, as did its membership in the Swabian League in 1331. Below are all the most significant dates in the history of the City of Augsburg. - 15 BC: Augsburg was founded by the Romans. - 5th century: Augsburg becomes part of the Holy Roman Empire. - 11th century: Augsburg becomes an important center of trade and commerce. - 13th century: Augsburg becomes a free imperial city. - 16th century: Augsburg is home to a number of important cultural and intellectual figures, including the theologian and monk St. Ulrich and the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. - 19th century: Augsburg became an important center of the textile industry in Germany. - 1945: Augsburg is heavily bombed during World War II and is subsequently rebuilt. - 2011: The historic center of Augsburg is added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. For a full and more complete History of Augsburg check out the city's entry on the Britannica Website.

Where is Augsburg Located in Bavaria

Augsburg is located just 60 kilometers to the North West of Munich in southern Bavaria. To the north, some 150 kilometers away, is Nuremberg and to the west, you’ll find Stuttgart 165 km distant. The city’s location at the confluence of the Lech River and Wertach River has been a historically significant trade route crossroads for centuries.

Augsburg Waterworks

Things to Do in Augsburg | Our Top 13 Recommendations

As you can imagine with such a vast history, this is a city plentiful with things to do. Following is our recommended list of the Best Things to Do in Augsburg based on our own experiences in the city. 1. Augsburg Town Hall This spectacular Renaissance-style building located in the Augsburger Old Town was completed in 1620 and is at the heart of the city. The Golden Hallway within is a magnificent example of Baroque art is a highlight. The ceiling paintings and gold artistry are truly fabulous, and it is definitely worth seeing in person. We highly recommend visiting during the Christmas season, when the Christmas angels appear in the windows of the main Town Hall, overlooking the Christkindl Christmas market below in the Rathausplatz town square. It’s a truly wonderful and memorable experience and one that is well worth visiting. Location: Rathausplatz 2, 86150 Augsburg, Germany Website: augsburg.de 2. The Fuggerei Jakob Fugger, who is believed to have been one of the wealthiest people in the world 500 years ago, and the Fugger Family, founded The Fuggere in 1516. This is a fascinating example of a public housing project believed to be the first of its type in the world. The institution that is the Fuggerei here in Augsburg still exists today, and visitors can go inside some of the houses to learn more about its history. The Fuggerei is an impressive and interesting place, particularly for history buffs - don’t miss the old air raid shelter on the property that is worth visiting. Displays are available in both English and German and some of the videos also have English subtitles, making it a fascinating and informative place to visit. This is the oldest social housing complex in the world but people still live here, however, so do be respectful when walking about. Location: Fuggerei 56, 86152 Augsburg, Germany Website: fugger.de 3. Mazda Car Museum What? Did we really say Mazda? In one of the most famous car manufacturing regions on the planet that sports the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz we’re talking about Mazda? Correct! Don’t worry, if you're not a car enthusiast, you'll still enjoy the cute cars from the 60s and racing machines that are on display at the Mazda Museum here in Augsburg. The museum provides a good overview of the history of these cars and also introduces visitors to the evolution of rotary engines. The presentation of the cars is top class and the museum provides information in both German and English for each car on display. This is the only Mazda Museum outside of Japan, making it a unique and interesting place to visit. For car lovers, this is a must. Location: Wertachstraße 29b, 86153 Augsburg, Germany Website: mazda-classic-frey.de 4. Augsburg Botanical Gardens The Augsburg Botanical Garden (Botanischer Garten Augsburg) is a peaceful and serene place to spend a few hours. It's especially nice to visit the Japanese garden section, and it's a great spot for taking pictures. While it may not be worth driving for hours to see, it's a great place to go if you're in the area and looking for a place to meditate, have a picnic, or just enjoy nature. The garden is located off the beaten path and is free from motorised vehicles, making it a peaceful and relaxing place to walk or bike. There's also a beer garden on site, where you can grab a bite to eat and listen to local artists. Overall, it's a beautiful nature area in the city that provides a calm and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Location: Dr.-Ziegenspeck-Weg 10, 86161 Augsburg, Germany Website: augsburg.de/freizeit/ausflugsziele/botanischer-garten 5. Augsburg Brewery (Brauhaus Riegele) For beer and food lovers the Brauhaus Riegele, the oldest brewery in Augsburg founded in 1386, should be a must-see on any visit to the city. Unbelievably still owned by the same family for 28 generations, the brewery has won numerous accolades in international competitions such as the European Beer Star and the World Beer Cup. If you enjoy beers that are full of flavor, aroma, and scent, and are unlike any others you've tried elsewhere, then the Brauhaus Riegele is a brewery you should definitely check out. Location: Frölichstraße 26, 86150 Augsburg, Germany Website: riegele.de 6. Augsburg Waterworks Museum How interesting can water be I hear you ask? Well you’ll find it here at the Augsburg Waterworks Museum and if you're at all interested in technology, you'll certainly get your money's worth at this historical tourist site. On show are wonderfully preserved technical equipment from 1879, some that still have some functional parts. You’ll be amazed at just how much of the original equipment is still in place here at the Waterworks - an absolute testament to the quality of the engineering work of yesteryear. Who would've thought a museum on a water management system could be so interesting? Location: Am Eiskanal 49, 86161 Augsburg, Germany Website: wassersystem-augsburg.de 7. Augsburg Cathedral Even if religion is not one of your interests, this Augsburg Cathedral (Augsburger Dom) is a special place to visit. This Romanesque-style cathedral was built in the 11th century and is home to a number of important artworks and historical artifacts. The architecture is stunning and is not immediately apparent from the outside which only adds to the ambience of the building. The crypts are also interesting, and it seems like every century and era has left its mark on the building. Don’t miss the 11th-12th Century stained glass windows. There are 5 and each one depicts a prophet. Location: Frauentorstraße 1, 86152 Augsburg, Germany Website: bistum-augsburg.de 8. Augsburg Zoo While it may not be as well-known as the zoos in Munich and Nuremberg, this zoo in southern Germany is definitely on par with the best in the region. The highlight has to be the wonderful Bird House, but there are plenty of other excellent exhibits as well, such as the mixed enclosure for Hamadryas Baboons and the Forest Buffalo enclosure. There is a new Elephant house and the compact size of the ZOO means you don’t have to spend all day here. Excellently laid out kids love visiting the Augsburg Zoo. For parents don’t forget to stop and enjoy a free sample of your choice of wine mid-way through the zoo visit! Location: Brehmpl. 1, 86161 Augsburg, Germany Website: zoo-augsburg.de 9. The Lech Canals Walk The Lech Canals that run through the city are a fascinating and wonderfully Instagrammable part of the city that not enough visitors to Augsburg take advantage of. There are actually 29 channels of the Lech river that flow through the city of Augsburg, covering a total distance of almost 77 kilometers. Not quite Venice, Amsterdam or Birmingham, but the Augsburg Canals are fascinating nonetheless and the lech canal water frontages are lined with houses, watermills, shops and cafes. Location: Throughout the city Website: wassersystem-augsburg.de/en/objects/lech-canals 10. Augsburg Art Museum There are a few different art museums in Augsburg, all worth a visit but our favourite is the Maximilian Museum which is home to a number of important artworks from the Middle Ages to the present day. The is a must-see destination for art lovers visiting Augsburg as not only does it house an impressive collection of decorative arts, including paintings, sculptures, crafts, and historical artifacts, but the museum building itself is both an architectural and historical landmark. Visitors are sure to be captivated by the museum's glass-ceiling courtyard and beautiful architecture. Overall, the Maximilian Museum is an unforgettable experience that combines art, history, and beauty. Location: Fuggerpl. 1, 86150 Augsburg, Germany Website: augsburg.de/kultur/museen-galerien/maximilianmuseum 11. Augsburg Puppet Theater The Augsburg Puppet Theater (Augsburger Puppentheatermuseum) is home to a number of displays and puppet shows and performances for both children and adults. The theater itself is a magical place to visit, whether you're a kid or an adult. It's a cultural icon of the city and surprises audiences with new puppet programs each season throughout the year. The art of puppetry has largely disappeared in modern Europe, making this theater a unique preserve of centuries-old fairy tale traditions. If you're in Augsburg, this is a must-see destination that will bring joy to you and your kids and leave you with a wealth of emotions. Go on, support this special Augsburg theater and experience the magic for yourself. Location: Spitalgasse 15, 86150 Augsburg, Germany Website: augsburger-puppenkiste.de 12. Perlach Tower  The Perlach Tower (Perlachturm) is a historic bell tower building in front of the church of St. Peter am Perlach right on the main town square and is definitely worth a visit. The climb up the circular staircase to the top presents a short revitalising workout, but the views of the city from the bell tower at the top are excellent. You will need to pay the "ticket taker" at the top who charges a small fee, but it's worth it for the experience. We highly recommend checking out the Perlach Tower for its unique history and stunning views as the best place to get a true orientation of the city. NOTE: This attraction was closed for renovation the last time we visited Augsburg Location: Rathausplatz, 86159 Augsburg, Germany Website: augsburg-tourismus.de/de/sehenswuerdigkeiten/augsburg-innenstadt 13. Rathausplatz The Rathausplatz, or City Hall Square, is a picturesque and grandiose plaza in the center of Augsburg and generally the starting point of any visitor to the city. The square is surrounded by majestic, ornate buildings with baroque and renaissance influences, featuring some classical facades of gilded marble and grand columns. The square is home to a number of fountains, gardens, and walkways, making it a popular destination for promenades and relaxation. The square is also home to a number of statues, sculptures, and other decorative elements, adding to its aesthetic appeal. Location: Rathausplatz, 86159 Augsburg, Germany Website: augsburg-tourismus.de/en/welcome

The Fuggerei in Augsburg

Where to Stay in Augsburg

Like all cities, there is PLENTY of accommodation options to choose from and Augsburg is no different with a plethora of hotels to suit all budgets as well as hostels, pensions, air bnb’s, and more. Below are three hotel options in Augsburg covering all pricing options that are recommended. Budget: IBIS Budget Augsburg City. This is a budget-friendly “sustainable” hotel located about 800 meters to the west of Augsburg Old Town but is well within walking distance of the city's main attractions. Cheap and cheerful. Mid-range: ANA Living Augsburg City Center by Arthotel ANA is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of the old town and offers comfortable accommodations and a central location. We love that the Arthotel Ana Living offers free bikes on which to cruise about the city. Exclusive: The Hilton Augsburg is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city, offering upscale accommodations, a spa and wellness center, and a variety of dining options. Please note that these are just a few examples and there may be other hotels in Augsburg that fit these categories. It's always a good idea to do your own research and compare prices and amenities to find the best option for your needs and budget.

Where to Eat in Augsburg

WHAT IS A DIRNDL

An Authentic German Dirndl is a type of traditional dress, typically worn by Bavarian women.

The dirndl is usually made of cotton or linen and styled in a way that highlights the female figure.

They are often decorated with embroidery and lace, as well as other ornamentation such as ribbons.

The dirndl was originally a practical garment that was worn for work in the fields or for cleaning, but it has evolved into a fashion item in modern times.

The summer here at AMMERSEE delights visitors with a plethora of available watersports which complement the varied waterside dining and drinking options of the lake perfectly. 

One of the biggest lakes in Bavaria Lake Ammersee is an awesome destination for all sorts of activities and one of the most popular lakes near Munich.

This stunning, massive lake is steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. Truly a breathtaking Bavarian sight; and it certainly could be an ideal leaiusre option for you to consider as part of your visit to Germany.

The water itself,  is the main drawcard; and with the water temperature in the shallower parts of the lake in August reaching over 20 degrees, it’s easy to understand why,

Still, many of the hotels on the shores of Lake Ammersee offer cultural activities and events such as book readings, talks, dance/music recitals and all sorts of fun inclusive activities. 

Read all about Lake Ammersee in full on our blog Absolute Munich

The Munich Viktualienmarkt is one of the most awesome places to visit on Munich whether your a tourist or a resident.

If you are ever in Munich the team here at Absolute Munich urges you to take the time to come and check out this famous food market and be amazed at what it has to offer.

Fresh food, fresh flowers, fresh beer and a whole load more!

There are many Football Teams in Munich with the most famous of them being the decorated FC Bayern Munich team that is based at Allianz Arena.

The Bundesliga (Germanys Top Flight Football Competition) used to have two Munich teams involved when TSV 1860 Munich was at their peak but they are currently down in the 3. Liga 

There are many other football teams in Munich aside from these aforementioned teams though with some real local talent coming out of the greater Munich area.

FC Bayern Munich are definitely the powerhouses of Bavarian Football and of the Bundesliga but there are plenty of other players maturing in the lower leagues that are ready to break out and shine. 

If your very interested in finding out more about the most well-known of the Football Team in Munich then check-out our main website (AbsoluteMunich.com) where we’ve covered them in blog post that is well worth the read.

With its excellent public transport system which includes underground trains (the U-Bahn), trams, buses, cycleways, and also the S-Bahn (above-ground railway) Munich is a very easy city to get around when you don’t have your own car.

The U-Bahn underground train system has stops at almost every major touristic site in the city and is usually a traveller or locals first option. U-Bahn trains are blue in colour and are very prompt in arriving and departing at their scheduled times as they are not restricted by traffic levels as the tram and bus networks might be. The U-Bahn is operated by the Munich Transport Company (MVG)

The S-Bahn trains are red in colour and travel to destinations to the outer reaches of the Munich City Limits but also run right through the city as well. The S-Bahn services the Munich International Airport ( münchen flughafen) on it’s S1 and S8 lines. The S-Bahn is operated by the national Deutsche Bahn AG.

To find out much more about Getting Around Munich please refer to the Munich Transport Companies website HERE where you can find schedules, maps and much more information.

The guys over at the new Absolute Munich website also have some fantastic information on Getting Around Munich as well so that’s well worth checking out.