Munich, the capital of the German state of Bavaria, is a sophisticated city with world-class museums, an outstanding infrastructure, and a unique flair that combines traditional features with modern amenities. Here are some suggestions for how to make the most of a visit.
DAY 1: Getting Acclimated
9:00 AM
Get your group familiar with their surroundings with a guided walk through Munich's old town. Stroll through Marienplatz (the main square), pass Frauenkirche (the cathedral), Hofbräuhaus (the famous beer hall), Viktualienmarkt (the central food market), and Residenz (the royal residence). bit.ly/smMunich
1:00 PM
There are few better options for lunch than Schrannenhalle, the historic 19th-century corn exchange that reopened in 2011 as a market brimming with restaurants and food stalls.
6:00 PM
For an older dining option, Boettner's has been delighting diners since 1901. Dishes feature fresh ingredients and Bavarian specialties, and there is outdoor seating when the weather is nice.
DAY 2: Out and About
10:00 AM
Explore Nymphenburg Castle, a baroque palace in the western part of Munich that was the summer residence of Bavarian monarchs. Five generations of Wittelsbach rulers were involved in the construction of this stately ensemble, which houses several outstanding collections. With its lavishly decorated interior and the famous "Gallery of Beauties" commissioned by Ludwig I, the palace is one of Munich's favorite attractions. Among the highlights are the former bedroom of King Ludwig II and the impressive banquet hall with fine ceiling frescoes by Johann Baptist Zimmermann.
12:00 PM
Head to Olympic Park, site of the 1972 Munich Olympics, for a climbing tour on its canopy roof. Your group will climb one of its peaks and learn the history of the stadium and the park. The adrenaline junkies in the group can strap on ropes and carabiners and jump off the roof.
8:00 PM
Be wowed by a performance at the Bavarian State Opera by its renowned opera company that dates back to the 1650s. This neoclassical-style National Theater shouldn't be missed.
DAY 3: Art and Eats
2:00 PM
Head to Lake Starnberg where your group will board a boat that takes them to the Buchheim Museum in Bernried to enjoy its outstanding collection of German expressionists. Be sure to view the impressive structure designed by architect Günter Behnisch for the collections of painter and author Lothar-Günther Buchheim.
6:00 PM
Enjoy dinner in Gasthof Weichandhof, an old farmhouse, which features Bavarian specialties like roast suckling pig and apple strudel, as well as international dishes. Meals are prepared traditionally, by hand.
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This article appears in the October 2014 issue of Successful Meetings.