Max-Joseph-Platz

Whether you're a fan of the opera or you've never been, the Bavarian State Opera offers fascinating artistic experiences for everyone. Opera is an integral part of Munich's cultural history and this opera house puts on quality performances throughout the year. No matter when you visit Munich, it should be easy to find a performance to attend.

Falckenbergstraße 2

Make for a classy European vacation by attending one of the plays at the Munchner Kammerspiele stages. World-renowned directors put on interesting and unforgettable productions on these stages. For those who speak English, subtitles let you follow the action alongside German-speaking attendees. For those who love the theater, these plays are a must-see attraction in Munich.

Barer Straße 27

One of the finest galleries in the world, the Alte Pinakothek is the perfect stop for art lovers. The gallery is also one of the oldest in the world, and it's amassed quite a collection in its many years. It has an emphasis on classic European art, but you'll find a little bit of everything in its halls. Sign up for a tour, plan your visit around their fantastic temporary exhibitions or just drop in any time for an inspiring exploration through the world of art.

Audi Dome

Looking for a great basketball game to watch? Grab a ticket to watch the FC Bayern Munich basketball team at the Audi Dome arena. Europe has a strong basketball league that pits Munich against teams from countries all around.

Marktstrasse 58

For a bird's-eye view of the Bavarian countryside, book with Paraworth. If you've never paraglided before, this is a great place to start. Go tandem or solo as you soar off a mountain in the Alps. Paraworth's headquarters in Munich and their flying area is just 50 kilometers south of Munich and easy to reach by train or car. For thrill-seekers, this is an exciting way to spend the day.

Tierparkstraße 30

Since 1911, Hellabrunn has been a must-see attraction for people who want to experience nature around the world. Get the chance to see animals from every continent. Dozens upon dozens of species call the zoo their home. Hellabrunn has been designed to recreate the environments where you would find these animals to give them greater comfort and familiarity. A visit to Hellabrunn is by far one of the top things to do in Munich. Be sure to take advantage of the daily tours, exhibits and feedings during your visit.

Theresienwiese 

Fruhlingsfest, or Spring Festival, is a great festival for families to enjoy. From late April to early May, the Fruhlingsfest brings plenty of activities that offer something for everyone. Fun rides, a flea market, beer gardens, old cars, fireworks — this festival covers a great array of interests.

Kaltenberg

A short drive south of Munich, you'll be able to travel back to the Middle Ages at the Kaltenberg Knights Tournament in July. The festival takes place at a real castle and transports you back into the age of knights. There will be plenty of shows, traditional food and one of the biggest knights tournaments in the world. If you're a fan of history, this tournament should not be passed up.

Mariahilfsplatz

Three times a year, the Auer Dult brings a traditional carnival to Munich. If you're looking for things to do in Munich with kids, keep an eye out for these festivals. You'll find a market full of crafts, antiques, wares of many kinds, festival rides, a beer tent, food and more.

Olympiapark and Theresienwiese

The Tollwood Festival is held twice a year, at Olympiapark in the summer and Theresienwiese in the winter. If you're looking for a festival that has a little bit of everything, Tollwood should be at the top of your list of things to do in Munich. You'll find theater, dance and cabaret performance, live music, hundreds of craft and food stalls and much more. Most of the events at the festival are free to attend, and there are great things to do with the kids as well.

Marienplatz

If you're looking for a Christmas destination that will delight the whole family, Munich is the place to be. Make sure you stop by the popular Christmas market on Marienplatz to explore 20,000 square meters of booths and stalls. The market is full of traditional Bavarian style that will put you in the holiday spirit. Crafts, food, music and history fill the streets with cheer and excitement.

Theresienwiese

Arguably the most well-known of Munich's festivals, Oktoberfest is two and a half weeks of one of the world's biggest parties. The festival begins in September and lasts until the first Sunday of October. Fourteen tents sell different kinds of beer and food for the crowds of people who show up to take part in the festival. If you like beer and traditional German food, you won't want to miss Oktoberfest. There are even attractions for kids if you want to take the whole family. Be sure to show up early to claim your spot, as the crowds can be quite heavy.

Paulaner Nockherberg 

If you're trying to enjoy good German beer but want to avoid the crowds at Oktoberfest, head to Starkbierfest, or Strong Beer Festival, in March. For three weeks, you'll get the chance to taste some of the local brews in breweries, beer halls and beer gardens. There will be events throughout the city that celebrate the festival, so make sure to do your research before taking part.

Ludwigstrasse

The Streetlife Festival is a great smorgasbord of food trucks, vendors and performers along Ludwigstrasse and Leopoldstrasse from Georgenstrasse to the Odeonsplatz. You'll be able to try many kinds of German fares, such as bratwurst and bami goreng, while enjoying the great entertainments that line the streets. This festival intends to take the streets from vehicles and give them back to the people. Around 50,000 people show up to the festival to enjoy their city and each other.

By far, the best part of Munich is its people. The sense of community you'll find at these events and attractions will make you feel right at home. Whether you're looking for thrills, holiday cheer or the best German food you can find, there's something for everyone in Munich.