Category : Munich
Many of Europe’s most prized works of art—its brilliant paintings, ancient tapestries, awe-inspiring sculptures—are kept indoors. However, the grounds surrounding the best museums and landmarks of Europe can be equally incredible. With springtime just around the corner, it is the perfect time to explore the most beautiful gardens in Europe. Here are favorites:
Royal Botanic Gardens – Kew, London
Covering over 300 acres in the heart of London, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew can easily fill a whole day. It is home to over 38,000 species of flora and fauna—some of which are completely extinct in the wild! A few of the magnificent garden’s major highlights are the Queens Garden (located directly behind Kew Palace, and designed in the 1960’s) and the Aquatic Garden (supposedly inspired by the sunken Garden at Hampton Court Palace.) The ten-story Pagoda and the Aroid House (a humid facility that houses an array of tropical plants) are also worth a visit.
Recommended hotels in London: Saint Georges Hotel, Best Western Premier Shaftesbury Piccadilly
the Aquatic Garden at the Royal Botanic Garden at Kew
Royal Botanic Gardens – Edinburgh
Actually comprised of both indoor and outdoor spaces, the Royal Botanic Gardens spreads out over 70 acres. The fascinating rock garden is a major draw, as is the beautiful Scottish-Heath garden. The colorful Queen Mother’s garden showcases plants from all around the world, and the Chinese hillside is especially extensive. Tropical flowers and indigenous European species mingle throughout Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Gardens. Meanwhile, lovely glass houses (including the popular Victoria glass house) welcome you indoors to marvel at other unique exhibits.
Recommended hotels in Edinburgh: Barcelo Edinburgh Carlton, Apex International Hotel
Generalife – Granada
The elegant Generalife compound is often said to have been the summer palace of the Sultans. However, the charming villa overlooking the Alhambra was actually built as a hunting lodge and country retreat. Spanish aristocrats once occupied the upper floor of the 19th-century buildings, and sought refuge in the shade of surrounding trees. Today, the extensive gardens of the Generalife provide the same tranquility and beauty to visitors. Fountains and flourishing flora fill the romantic Generalife courtyard and enhance adjacent panoramic patios. The colorful gardens and accompanying views make this one of the most picturesque places in Spain.
Recommended hotels in Granada: Saray Hotel, Melia Granada
the Generalife villa
Nymphenburg Palace Gardens – Munich
Impeccably manicured and perfectly maintained, the park adjacent to Nymphenburg Palace is truly fit for a king. The grounds of the Nymphenburg Palace Gardens, originally Italienesque, were beautifully transformed and expanded in the 17th century. They still retain all of their Old World glamour and opulence. Imposing statues of the Greek Gods oversee verdant lawns and large, crystal-clear ponds. Meanwhile, diverse flowerbeds and roaming birds add flair. This is an ideal spot in which to enjoy a picnic with your family or friends after taking a tour of the palace’s interior.
Recommended hotels in Munich: Hotel Polo, Four Points By Sheraton Munich Central
Monet’s Garden – Giverny
A far cry from the manicured lawns surrounding Europe’s palaces, Monet’s Garden is known for its wildly rustic atmosphere. The untamed hedges and overgrown flowerbeds create a lush, romantic atmosphere that art-lovers will immediately connect to Monet’s messy brush strokes. The colorful gardens that surround Claude Monet’s mansion are truly indicative of his paintings and personality. Take a leisurely stroll around the fragrant homestead to follow in the master’s footsteps. Located in Giverny, about 50 miles from Paris, Monet’s Garden is a wonderful place to spend a quiet afternoon.
Recommended hotels in Paris: Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel, Emeraude Lodge du Centre
Claude Monet's greatest inspiration
Beer has been around longer than Rembrandt paintings, Roman urns and most of the other items which bring us to museums. So why not a beer museum? Why not indeed! It just so happens that the world in general and Europe in particular are full of museums honoring the sudsy stuff. Ranging from serious educational museums to venues that look like they cater to those who have already been sampling the wares, beer museums have finally found their way into the culture. Here are some of the best in Europe.
1. The Heineken Experience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
There’s a lot of history behind the site of the Heineken Experience. This is where one of the world’s favorite beers was brewed from the 16th century until 1988, when Heineken moved its operations out of the city centre. Not surprisingly, this is one of the world’s largest beer museums – if not the largest – boasting 3,000 square metres of exhibition space. The 75 minute tour takes you through the entire brewing process while documenting the history of Heineken, ending up at the Brewhouse Bar each guests (of a certain age) is treated to several “samples” of the end product. Children are allowed on the tour but must be accompanied by There’s also a gift shop where you can buy all things Heineken-related. While the Heineken Experience is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site (yet!), it is a European Route of Industrial Heritage Site, one of just 66 in Europe. Located right near the centre of the city, there are plenty of Amsterdam hotels in the area.
2. The Guinness Storehouse, Dublin, Ireland
Another of the world’s most popular brews come from right here in the Irish capital. That’s where you’ll find St. James’s Gate Brewery, home of the Guinness Storehouse, which is also known as Guinness Hop Store. Not only is the museum the result of £30 million of effort…it’s also Ireland’s No. 1 international visitor attraction! The money was well-spent, as you’ll marvel at the seven-floor storehouse’s glass atrium that’s meant to resemble a pint of Guinness. Your visit starts on the first floor, where you’re introduced to our friends, water, barley, hops and yeast, as well as the our friend and the brewery’s founder, Arthur Guinness, who kicked things off 250 years ago. The tour ends on the seventh floor Gravity Bar, located in the head of the atrium’s bottle. The highest bar in Dublin, the Gravity Bar offers 360° views over Dublin and its surroundings, along with…you guessed it…your complimentary pint of Guinness. As you enjoy your pint, be sure to look down to see if you can see your Dublin Hotel.
3. Bier und Oktoberfestmuseum, Munich, Germany
The Bavarian capital of Munich may not brew an iconic beer like Dublin and Amsterdam, but its six breweries do produce 56 million bottles of beer annually. And it does have that little thing called Oktoberfest that has earned it the title of the Capital of Beer. Also home to the famous Hofbräuhaus, Munich is now the proud host of the Bier und Oktoberfestmuseum as well. Here you’ll learn more than you thought you’d ever know about the history of beer, from its migrations following ancient cultures, to its time in European monasteries, to the history of Munich itself, including the history of the Oktoberfest, which was established as the national festival for the wedding of King Luis and Princess Theresa. Like the other museums, the Bier und Oktoberfestmuseum offers beer as part of the package. But here they also make a big deal out of the food that goes along with the beer. In fact, the museum bar and restaurant offer 120 seats on two floors, making it a popular party venue for the locals. The museum also provides a view into the city’s past, as it’s housed in a building dating back to 1340, one of the oldest in the city. And of course, there are many fine Munich hotels in the area.
4. Stepan Razin Brewery, St. Petersburg, Russia
Though Russia is usually associated with liquor that comes from potatoes rather than barley and hops, the country likes a good brew as much as any other country. The Stepan Razin Brewery Museum invites you to discover the oldest brewery in Russia. Opened in 1995 to celebrate the brewery’s 200th anniversary, the museum covers the history of beer brewing in Russia, focusing on Stepan Razin. Known in Soviet times as the Kalinkinskiy Beer and Mead Co-operative, the brewery was originally opened with the approval of Czarina Catherine the Great and named for the famous 17th century Cossack pirate Stepan Razin. The museum’s displays are authentic, some going back over 300 years. Unlike the other, larger breweries on this list, the Stepan Razin Museum focuses on traditional home brewing rather than industrial brewing. And while Heineken and Guinness provide samples of Heineken and Guinness, here you get to taste a variety of different beers. Just be sure you can get back to your St. Petersburg hotel without having to drive when you’re done! Though the museum has no website, here’s the contact information.
Stepan Razin Beer Museum
11, Ulitsa Stepana Razina
St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
+7 (812) 251-0389
Open: Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Closed weekends.
5. Prague Beer Museum Pub
Okay, so the Prague Beer Museum Pub isn’t exactly a museum. No, it’s exactly a pub. But I had to get the home of Pilsner beer in here somehow, and what better way to celebrate beer than to experience it in its native habitat? The Prague Beer Museum Pub is known for providing a wide variety of beer, with an astounding 30 taps (the most in the city). To keep you from getting overwhelmed, the pub features an immense menu full of descriptions of all things foamy. From Indian Pales Ales to Blueberry and Raspberry Lagers to lovely Honey Wheat Beers, the pub specializes in unique beers brewed in small breweries throughout the Czech Republic. Like a museum, there’s plenty to look at, with photos of old breweries, beer memorabilia and posters with beer trivia. In fact, you might actually learn as much about beer here as in any of the actual museums. The Prague Beer Museum Pub is also set just a short stroll from the Old Town Square, so it’s easy to find a Prague hotel within easy stumbling range, perfect after your visit to the “museum.”
Many airports have finally figured out that passengers with long layovers and passengers who arrive early for their flights not only have time on their hands, but they also have money in their wallets. As a result, many airport shopping centres now rival their city counterparts, featuring name brands at discount prices and many other services as well. Lucky you. Here are a few of the best European airports for shopping.
London Heathrow Airport
So you Finished that London trip, and you didn’t have time to make it to Harrods for that gift for Aunt Lucy. No worries. Just stop by the Harrods at Heathrow. And the Liberty. And Hermes, Prada and Versace. These are only a few reasons that Heathrow Airport was given the 2010 Skytrax World Airport Best Airport Shopping Award. If all that shopping has given you a crick in your neck, you can get a massage from the At Be Relax Spa, in Satellite Terminal 5B or relax in one of the YOTEL’s cabins, with their en suite bathrooms, free Internet access, and “techno wall” entertainment system. If you’re here for a layover, the Heathrow Express can have you inside Westminster Abbey inside an hour! And as you might expect, there are plenty of great hotels near Heathrow as well.
Munich International Airport
While Heathrow Airport 2010’s Best Shopping Award, Munich International Airport won the Skytrax World Airport Award for best airport in Europe in 2010 and was ranked number 4 in the world after the famous Singapore, Seoul, and Hong Kong airports. In addition to 150 shops, the airport is also popular with locals for the free concerts. Relaxation comes in the form of massages at the gate and “napcabs,” soundproofed mini-rooms designed for your snoozing pleasure. The airport also offers a cinema, and for those wanting some activity after a long flight, there’s soccer, beach volleyball, min-golf and even winter ice skating. And it’s no surprise that the city known for its Oktoberfest celebration would be the first to offer the world its first airport brewery, which is located at the Hofbräuhaus. If you find you’ve spent too much time at the Hofbräuhaus, the Kempinski Hotel Airport München offers a five-star location to spend the night, right at the airport, between Terminals 1 and 2. There are also plenty of other hotels near the airport.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
The airport that Heathrow beat out for the Best Airport Shopping Award offers some amenities that cannot be found in any other airport in the world. In fact, much of the circle of life is represented here in the only airport that offers both a wedding chapel and a mortuary. The airport also offers the largest complex for duty-free shopping, with fifty shops and boutiques offering over 120,000 products at famously low prices. And then there’s Schiphol Plaza. Located before customs, this immense shopping venue caters to non-travelers as well. There’s also a library featuring 1,200 books in 29 languages, along with music from Dutch composers. Being a city of art and culture, Amsterdam has opened a branch of its iconic Rijksmuseum, offering a small overview of classical and contemporary art right at the airport. If you’d like to see more, then both Amsterdam and Den Haag are short train rides away, offering the chance to see the world’s greatest art during your layover. And don’t forget about all the nearby hotels.
Rome Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport
Though the northern Italian city of Milan is regarded as the fashion capital of Italy, if not Europe, Fiumicino Rome Airport’s Shopping Gallery is famous for being the largest airport shopping center in Europe dedicated to luxury goods. The Shopping Gallery offers a whopping 140 stores featuring the biggest names in fashion, from Aeronautica Militare to Zoccai. High end products are offered at low end prices at such stores as Roma Travel Shop, Fabriano, Venchi, Tendenze, Riva, Dolce & Gabbana, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bulgari, Burberry, Prada… you get the picture. If you can’t wait to get home to try on your booty, you can always check into a nearby Fiumicino Airport hotel. The Hilton Garden Inn Rome Airport is actually located right in the airport.
Frankfurt Airport
Saving the biggest airport for last, Frankfurt Airport is continental Europe’s largest airport and one of the busiest, having moved 50,932,840 passengers in 2009. Also immense is its shopping, which is spread out over 20,000 square metres. Shops are open from 5:00 AM until 10:00 PM every day and range from supermarkets and delicatessens to classy clothes boutiques and photo shops. Hairdressers, textile cleaners and alteration tailors can also be found, and there’s even a sex shop where one can buy goods of an adult nature. Also in the adult category is the Airport Casino, where passengers can try their luck at Roulette, Black Jack and many slot machines. Player’s Island offers more slot machines, BigCash Club, Internet terminals, computer games and much more, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If all that activity has you too tired to head into town, there are many airport hotels that are much closer.
There’s nothing more magical than the holiday season, and when it comes to holiday magic, nobody does it better than Germany. Big or small, every German city and town proudly presents its own Christmas Market, known locally as a Weihnachtsmarkt or a Christkindlmarkt. A tradition that goes back to the Middle Ages, the Christmas Market is a place full of colorful lights, wonderful food, arts, crafts and in some cases rides for the kids.
Aachen
Starting at the western end of the country, Aachen’s beautiful city centre becomes more beautiful when it’s all lit up. Set around the town’s medieval Cathedral and town hall, Aachen’s Christmas Village features the unforgettable culinary experience of the Aachen Printen, a special kind of gingerbread for which the city is known. There’s a carousel for kids and mulled wine for adults, and the paradise created by the lights, colors, festive sounds and Christmas smells will make folks of all ages feel like kids. Other culinary treats include potato fritters and a large variety of Christmas cakes and biscuits, including Domino Stones, Spekulatius and marzipan bread. Though Aachen is proud to supply the world with these tasty treats, they just taste better when sampled in this winter wonderland. Many Aachen hotels can put you right in the middle of the action.
Munich
Munich’s famous Marienplatz is where you can enjoy the same Bavarian Weihnachtsmarkt that locals have been enjoying since the 14th century. Drift back through the ages as you gaze up at the beautiful Frauenkirche. Then come back to the 21st century as you indulge in traditional Bavarian Christmas gifts, like wood carvings from Oberammergau, Lebkuchen (gingerbread) from Nuremberg and exquisite glassware from the Bavarian Forest. There are also bee’s wax candles, chimney sweeps made of plums and almonds and thousands of other treats for the eyes, nose and mouth. Don’t miss the Christmas Market concert, which is performed from the balcony of the town hall. If your Munich hotel is close enough, you may get to hear it without leaving your room. And don’t miss the Kripperlmarkt, which is one of the largest markets in Germany to specialise in cribs and other nativity accessories. If you’re travelling with the children, you can watch them being transformed into angels with gossamer wings and shimmering gowns in the “Heavenly Workshop.”
Dresden
The city of Baroque is also the city boasting Germany’s oldest Christmas market. Since 1434 the market, known here as the Striezelmarkt, has been supplying guests with the Hefestriezel, the Christmas cake that gave the festival its name. The cake is now known as Dresden Christstollen, and the market, located between the recently rebuilt Frauenkirche and the famous restaurant street of Münzgasse provides the perfect way to see this beautiful treasure of a city. Not only is Dresden’s Christmas market the oldest, but it also boasts the spectacle of the world’s tallest Christmas pyramid, which measures 14 metres tall. The market gives you a chance to experience German history as they play, as the traditional toys at the market still come from the same Erzgebirge (Ore Mountains) that they’ve come from for centuries. They can enjoy their toys in one of Dresden’s many family-friendly hotels.
Rüdesheim am Rhein
Perched high over the timeless River Rhein, the Hessian town of Rüdesheim am Rhein provides a journey into the past all year around. But never as beautiful as during the town’s Christmas Market. The entire romantic old quarter comes to life as the Drosselgasse features 120 stalls presenting an international Christmas from 12 countries. In fact, the life-sized Nativity figures located on the market square make up the largest Nativity scene in Europe. Not that you’ll need any help staying up for the market, but just in case, be sure to try the famous Rüdesheim Coffee, made with locally distilled Asbach Uralt Brandy, whipped cream and traditionally served in an authentic Rüdesheim Coffee Set. This local brandy can also be found inside the town’s delicious chocolates. Many of Rüdesheim am Rhein’s hotels provide easy access to the market.
Berlin
It’s no surprise that Germany’s capital city would provide a wide variety of Christmas Markets, ranging from lively and urban to peaceful and petite. With 60 different Berlin Christmas Markets, you could spend the whole holiday season and never see them all. Head to the Weihnachtsmarkt at Charlottenburg Castle for historical carriage rides and Christmas displays both inside and outside this historical gem, which seeks to replicate the 19th century Biedermeier Period. Then head to the Gendarmenmarkt, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, to experience the most traditional celebration, complete with scrumptious treats and fairy lights. For a more modern version, head to the more modern Potsdamerplatz, where Christmas is celebrated on the Sony Centre’s 4,000 square metre event area. Here you’ll find the Legoland Discovery Centre and Winterwelt, which features Europe’s largest mobile toboggan run! Of course with Berlin’s hundreds of hotels, there’s sure to be one near the Christmas Market of your choice.
Posted in Barcelona, Belgium, Brussels, Dublin, France, Frankfurt, Germany, Ireland, Italy, London, Madrid, Milan, Munich, Paris, Spain, The UK on 23. Sep, 2010
If you thought that high-end outlet malls were only to be found in the USA, then think again. Less than an hour from nine European cities are the nine shopping venues belonging to Chic Outlet Shopping, known collectively as “The Villages.” Each one is a destination in itself, an open-air shopping Mecca hosting between 50 and 140 European luxury brand outlet boutiques, from Abro to Zoo York. The shops range from European to international, with each also featuring shops representative of the host country. Each is easy to reach from its host city via a shuttle. The store directories and shuttle information can be found on the website for each village.
LONDON (Bicester Village)
Bicester Village offers over 130 outlet stores, all set in the village of Bicester in the heart of the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside. The Village has its own Italian and French restaurants, and also provides the perfect excuse to explore all the attractions of Oxfordshire. London itself is only 60 minutes away, and the shops at the village provide you with up to 60% discounts on the recommended retail price. You can either make Bicester Village a daytrip from your London hotel or stay closer to the action in a Bicester hotel.
DUBLIN (Kildare Village)
Just an hour from Dublin, in the heart of County Kildare you’ll find many horse farms and horse-racing venues. You’ll also find Kildare Village, home to more than 55 luxury boutiques. Kildare Village specializes in providing you with a broad selection of the collections of the previous season in famous international names in both fashion and homeware. Discounts here also reach up to 60% of the retailers’ recommended price. The charming village of Kildare offers one hotel, and nearby villages like Newbridge offer other accommodations. Or you can always stay in the vibrant capital city of Dublin itself.
PARIS (La Vallée Village)
It should come as no surprise that the fashion capital of the planet for the last several centuries would play host to a luxury outlet mall. La Vallée Village is just 35 minutes from the City of Light. And if you need something to calm the kids down while you shop, you can promise them a trip to Disneyland Paris, which is just five minutes away in the neighboring city of Marne-la-Vallée. In the meantime, you can lose yourself among the 90 luxury outlet boutiques where you’ll find low prices on Paris’s finest. There are many Paris hotels, as well as closer hotels in the town of Bailly-Romainvilliers, which plays host to La Vallée Village, and neighboring towns like Magny-le-Hongre and Serris.
MADRID (Las Rozas Village)
Set right between the Spanish capital Madrid and the amazing El Escorial, the residence and final resting place of many Spanish kings and queens, Las Rozas Village offers up to 60% reductions in over 100 luxury outlet boutique shops. Many Spanish brands are represented, along with international stores. The Village is located in the Madrid suburb of Las Rozas de Madrid, which boasts some fine hotels. But if you’d rather enjoy the excitement of the capital city that never sleeps, many Madrid hotels are only 30 minutes away.
BARCELONA (La Roca Village)
Located in the heart of Catalonia, La Roca Village provides not only international designer brand outlet boutiques and not only their Spanish counterparts, but also the unique opportunity to buy from authentic Catalan designer shops. The stores at La Roca Village offer discounts of up to 60%, and the location is also excellent. Only 40 minutes from Barcelona’s vibrant city centre, La Roca Village puts you on the road to the beautiful Costa Brava, so you’d better be sure to buy a swim suit while you’re there. La Roca Village is located in the town of Granollers, which offers a selection of hotels. Or maybe you’d rather spend the night in a hotel or apartment in Barcelona itself.
MILAN (Fidenza Village)
Residents of Milan might take exception to the designation of Paris as the fashion capital of the world. And after a day in Fidenza Village, you might end up agreeing with them. While the shops of Milan itself are notoriously expensive, Fidenza Village offer up to 70% reductions in more than 100 luxury outlet boutiques. The world’s leading Italian and international fashion brands are available, and Fidenza Village is an hour away from both Milan and the exciting university city of Bologna. Milan offers a wide range of hotels that are convenient to the Village shuttle. Or you can stay in the Hotel Astoria or Hotel Fidenza in the town of Fidenza itself.
BRUSSELS (Maasmechelen Village)
Though known more for its chocolates and its beautifully preserved medieval core than for its fashion, the city of Brussels is just an hour’s drive (or shuttle ride) from the 95 luxury outlet boutiques of Maasmechelen Village. Here you can save from 30% to 60% off the recommended retail price on the previous season’s collections from leading Belgian and international names in fashion, homeware and home décor. Set at the beautiful green intersection of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, Maasmechelen Village can be combined with many international daytrips. You can use the B&B Basil in Maasmechelen as your homebase, or stay in one of the many luxurious Brussels hotels nearby.
FRANKFURT (Wertheim Village)
One of the business capitals of Europe now offers the opportunity to shop like crazy with the 110 luxury outlets of Wertheim Village 50 minutes away. Like some of the other Chic Outlet Shopping venues, Wertheim Village offers up to 60% off on the previous season’s collections, and like the other venues, you can get access to both international and German companies. Wertheim Village is also located right at the gateway to the famous Romantic Road, making it a convenient stop on your way out of Frankfurt or on your way back in. Wertheim hotels make a great Romantic Road homebase, while Frankfurt hotels put you in the middle of the action.
MUNICH (Ingolstadt Village)
And last but certainly not least are the 100 boutiques found at Ingolstadt Village, which is located just 50 minutes north of all the beer gardens, churches and Bavarian charm of the city of Munich. This lively city also has a thriving cultural scene with more art galleries and theatres than any other city in Germany. The easiest way to enjoy the 60% discounts at Ingolstadt Village is to stay at an Ingolstadt hotel, though the shuttle from central Munich makes it possible to stay in a hotel in Munich.
Originally started as a horse race to celebrate the royal wedding in 1810, Munch’s Oktoberfest was immediately so popular that it became annual tradition. Two centuries later, the party is still going strong—but without the horses, and with much larger crowds. These days, the celebration draws about 7 million visitors to southern Germany. And it’s not too late to join in the fun this year! Book a flight and a room at one of the great hotels in Munich, and let our primer help you navigate the world of Oktoberfest.
What
There are many reasons to love Oktoberfest—the festive atmosphere, the quirky outfits, the parades and exhibits. However, the fair’s highlight is definitely the beer. The majority of the drinking is done in 14 large beer tents. You can reserve tables online, but they tend to sell out months in advance. Don’t worry, though—you don’t need a reservation to join in the fun! Simply start at the Schottenhamel tent and make your way around. The bright red Hippodrom tent and the Hofbrau tent are other major hubs of activity. For a dose of authentic Bavarian charm, hit up the Augustiner and Lowenbrau tents as well.
When
The 16-day festival traditionally leads up to the first Sunday in October. However, in 1994, the schedule was modified to incorporate October 3—German Unity Day. If the first Sunday of the month falls on October 1 or 2, the festival is extended to cover that holiday. In 2010, the 177th Annual Munich Oktoberfest will take place from September 18th to October 4th.
Where
Although copycat Oktoberfest celebrations can be found around the globe, no such event can hold a candle to the original. Because of the sheer size and popularity of the famous festival, hotels in Munich tend to book up pretty quickly. However, with just under 2 months left to go, there is still time to make a reservation! From high-end hotels like the Sofitel Munich Bayerpost to budget accommodations like the Siddiqi Pension & Hostel, there are a lot of options. You can even go rustic and stay at Munich’s Thalkirchen Camping Ground, where tents start at just a few euros per night. Public transportation makes it easy to reach the beer tents during the festival.
How
A first timer can easily become overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of Oktoberfest—not to mention the language barrier. Brush up on a few key phrases before you go, and you’ll be able to drink along with the most seasoned locals. Remember that the German word for “Cheers!” is “Prost!” To order a beer, say “Ein Ma, bitte!” The amber liquid is served in one-liter glass mugs called ma (mass) that cost about 8 euros each. To mix it up, try a refreshing Radler (a mixture of beer and lemonade) instead. Food is also easy to find throughout Oktoberfest. Roast chicken, giant pretzels and generous platefuls of pork knuckes (Schweinshaxe) are popular. If you want something sweet, see if a nice German girl will give you the heart necklace off her neck—it’s made of gingerbread.
Why
Because it’s the largest party in the world!
One of the country’s most popular and beloved pastimes, drinking beer is a great way to embrace the local culture. Especially as the warm summer months heat up, beer gardens and beer halls come alive throughout Bavaria. Here are a few tips on how to make the most of Germany’s best beer halls—and where they are.
Know Before You Go
The most important thing to remember is that a beer hall or beer garden is not a pub. It keeps different hours, and operates in a different way. Most do not open until the late afternoon. Once they are open, however, they tend to stay so until the wee hours of the next morning.
Most beer hall patrons sit at long communal tables that lend themselves to socializing. Don’t feel awkward about sitting with strangers—but remember to ask if the seat is free (“frei”) first! Also note the tables adorned with brass plaques; the telltale sign indicates that a table is a “Stammtisch,” or a meeting place for a particular group. Don’t sit there.
At a traditional beer hall, patrons are served at their table. In a large beer garden, beers are ordered and poured at a specific central point. Pay the cashier, get your mug, and bring your ticket to the bartender. If you simply ask for “a beer,” you will most likely get a lager. You might also order a “dunkel” (dark) beer, a “weissbier” (wheat beer) or a “radler” (beer mixed with lemonade.) If you get hungry, don’t worry—these venues serve food, and often allow you to bring your own.
The Best Beer Halls In Germany
Once you’re familiar with beer hall etiquette and operations, you’re ready to drink! Here are our picks for the best places to imbibe:
Hofbräuhaus am Platzl – Munich
Probably the most famous beer hall in all of Germany, the Hofbräuhaus continues to draw crowds of locals and tourists. The spacious venue can seat up to 4,500 beer drinkers—and it does on an average night! Live music, massive mugs and tons of kitschy Bavarian charm ensure a fun-filled evening near the best hotels in Munich.
The interior of the famous Hofbräuhaus
Ratskeller – Bremen
Situated along the picturesque Rhineland in Bremen, this fantastic beer hall is celebrated for its suds and food. It also offers a surprisingly comprehensive list of vintage wines from Germany’s most popular vineyards. Great hotels in Bremen include the Hotel Lichtsinn and the ATLANTIC Grand Hotel Bremen.
Auerbachs Keller – Leipzig
Close to tourist attractions and the best Leipzig hotels, the Auerbachs Keller is the most iconic tavern in eastern Germany. It dates back to 1530 and is famous for being the site of the infamous debate between Faust and Mephistopheles, staged by Goethe. Murals on the walls still depict the legendary tale.
Auerbachs Keller in Leipzig
Zum Roten Ochsen – Heidelberg
Once the favored drinking hall of Mark Twain and Bismarck, the Zum Roten Ochsen (“Red Ox”) still remains popular. The historical venue has been serving local students and visitors since 1703, and it is easy to see why. It is definitely one of the best beer halls around. Recommended hotels in Heidelberg include the Hotel Bayrischer Hof and the Crowne Plaza Heidelberg.
Known for its distinct charm and unique folklore, the German state of Bavaria is a special place. It comprises soaring mountain peaks, lush forests, cozy medieval towns and major industrial centres. Begin your tour of the region by booking great accommodations. There are plenty of excellent hotels in Munich, quaint Nuremberg hotels, and other Bavarian accommodations that let you explore the landscape.
Neuschwanstein Castle
A major highlight of the Bavarian region is its awe-inspiring Neuschwanstein Castle. Built amid the rugged hills above hotels in Hohenschwangau, the spectacular castle was commissioned by Ludwig II. When the reclusive and eccentric king died in 1886, the castle was opened to the public. Since then, over 60 million visitors have toured the impressive grounds. If the castle looks familiar to you, that is no coincidence. It was the inspiration behind the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle that welcomes tourists to Disneyland!
Herrenchiemsee
Also bestowed upon the region by King Ludwig II was the beautiful palace of Herrenchiemsee. Sprawled across Herreninsel, an island in the Chiemsee, the palatial complex was built to honor King Louis XIV of France. The “Bavarian Versailles” wound up being even more opulent than the original. Key features include the majestic State Staircase, the State Bedroom and the amazing Great Hall of Mirrors.
Zugspitze
At 2,962 metres above sea level, the Zugspitze is the highest mountain in all of Germany. It towers over the Austrian border and charming town of Grainau, and is easy to reach by public transportation. There are many lovely hotels in Garmisch-Partenkirchen (including the Wittelsbacher Hof Swiss Quality Hotel) that offer direct access to the beautiful snowcapped peak. Take one of two cable cars from the base of the mountain to the highest point. Brave the crowds of tourists, and you will be rewarded with unforgettable views.
The Romantic Road
More than a tourist attraction, the Romantic Road offers a unique way to experience Bavaria. The scenic roadway cuts through much of the beautiful state; it starts at the River Main and ends at the base of the Alps. Along the way, travelers are introduced to a wealth of villages and landmarks. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Würzburg, the Frankenhöhe nature park, and the two royal palaces of Nördlingen all lie directly on the Bavarian Romantic Road. As a strategic starting point, consider one of the many hotels in Rothenburg or Lucerne. The Express by Holiday Inn Luzern is a good choice.
Bayreuth
Most famous for being the site of the annual Richard Wagner Festival, this inviting Bavarian city is beautiful all year-round. The former Margravial residence has slowly transformed into the largest city in Upper Franconia, and its unique blend of old and new elements is quite fascinating. Popular places of interest include the mysterious caves and gardens of the Eremitage, the Margravial Opera House (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and over 20 museums.
BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP…
Ah yes, the less-than-comforting sound of an alarm clock. There you were, in a perfectly blissful state of slumber, and that awful blaring of competing tones disrupts your bliss and you are forced to leave that safe, warm place and go out into the harsh world.
But, what if you could take that warm, peaceful feeling with you to work or school?
Yoga allows that to happen. By syncing your body and mind through different poses and meditation, you become more focused. For me, yoga gives a greater sense of purpose for all of the day’s tasks, so I don’t become overwhelmed or stressed, but take things one step at a time. Doing this doesn’t make getting out of bed difficult, but almost exciting to make the most of your day.
Travel & Leisure posted an article of the top 25 yoga studios around the world. Here are a few located in Europe:
- Hamsa Yoga Studio: Copenhagen, Denmark – Offering Vinyasa yoga, this studio also offers advanced back-bending and Thai massage. English classes available on request.
- Triygoga: London, England – With locations in Primrose Hill, Covent Garden and Soho, this studio also offers acupuncture, naturopathy and massage.
- Airyoga Munich: Munich, Germany – About a four-minute walk from Mandarin Oriental Hotel, this studio offers massages, facials and pedicure in addition to all major yoga styles. English classes available upon request.
- Rasa: Paris, France – This studio focuses primarily on Vinyasa yoga, but still offers classes in Mysore, Ashtanga and Yin. English classes available upon request.
- Airyoga Zurich: Zurich, Switzerland – Here, a variety of 10 different yoga traditions are taught in a convenient location in Bellevue Plaza. Almost all classes are taught in English.
Of course, there are many yoga studios around the world you can attend. Just try out a few sessions and see if it’s a good fit. Hopefully it will leave you rejuvenated and refreshed. With plenty of hotels in and around Copenhagen, London, Munich, Paris and Zurich, be sure to check out affordable hotels at Eurobookings.com.
If all else fails, perhaps a more soothing alarm clock could also do the trick. But trust me on the yoga thing.
