Germany
When you think of cities in Germany to visit for the weekend, you might be considering Berlin or Munich. Both great places to spend a few days but there’s another German city which is definitely worth considering for your next city break: Frankfurt am Main. Often regarded as a business hub thanks to its towering skyline and international airport, Frankfurt actually has enough to see and do for a weekend break. We spent a few days here in the summer and were pleasantly surprised.
Frankfurt is a city of contrasts. In one direction you’ll see high rise modern skyscrapers and in another you’ll find historic squares and half-timbered houses. Wandering through the old cobblestone streets and past traditional buildings you can quickly find yourself in the financial district where the streets are lined with futuristic glass buildings.
Römerberg
The starting point for many a tourist is Römerberg, an impressive square lined with beautifully reconstructed half-timbered buildings. Here, you’ll find the Römer, the city’s historic town hall that has been in use for more than 600 years.
For history lovers, the nearby St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral (Kaiserdom) is a must-visit. This Gothic cathedral was the setting for the coronation of kings and emperors for nearly 300 years.
Museum Embankment
After exploring the old town we headed south to the embankment where we stopped for lunch. As well as cafes and bistros, you’ll also find Frankfurts museum quarter. Lining both sides of the embankment are several museums such as;-
Städel Museum: for art lovers
German Film Museum: for film buffs
Historical Museum: for history buffs
Connecting both sides of the embankment is the historic iron bridge. Originally built in 1869, it was destroyed at the end of World War II and then rebuilt. The embankment area around the bridge is a popular hangout in the evenings for tourists and locals alike. Grab a beer in one of the riverside bars and watch the sun go down between two skyscrapers. It’s is a photo-worthy moment.
Eating and Drinking
The city is famous for Apfelwein (apple wine). It’s essentially a cider, quite tart but not unpleasant. I had it alongside a very non-traditional pasta dish but if you want to stay local, try it with Handkäs mit Musik (a tangy cheese served with onions) or Frankfurter Rippchen (smoked pork chops).
For a quick snack on the go, try the iconic Frankfurter Würstchen — the famous sausages which originated here. You can get them at one of the street stands but just make sure you have some euros with you as we found that some of these stands were cash only. If you’re looking for something sweeter there’s the Frankfurter Kranz, a ring-shaped cake filled with buttercream and jam.
Finally
Frankfurt may not always make the top of European city break lists, but that’s part of its charm. I liked the contrasts that the city offered and with Frankfurt airport being a major European hub, it’s easily accessible and ideal for a weekend break.
Frankfurt
Situated in the south east of Germany, Munich is the largest city in the state of Bavaria. As a state Bavaria has a unique culture and many locals consider themselves Bavarian first and German second. It’s the land of beautiful Alpine scenery, traditional clothing (think dirndl skirts, lederhosen and felt caps) as well as traditional alpine music and of course the famous beer halls. It’s an area of Germany that I’d wanted to visit for a while. In particular I wanted to see Neuschwanstein Castle. So when the opportunity came up to visit Munich I was excited to go. There’s loads to see in and around Munich. Here’s what I would recommend;-
Oktoberfest
So let’s start with the largest folk festival in the world. Oktoberfest is the number one attraction for many people visiting Munich. From the middle of September until early October huge beer tents spring up along with fairgrounds and amusements and people flock to enjoy traditional entertainment and the best German beers. You don’t need to pre book your spot but be aware that some days will be busier than others (particularly if you want to sit in a beer garden on a sunny day!)
Marienplatz
Marienplatz is the main square in the old town. The New Town Hall lies on the north side of the square and attached to this grand old building is the famous glockenspiel clock. Every day at 11am and midday it comes alive with music and the moving figurines display stories of Bavaria. As to be expected, it draws a crowd so get there early.
Marian Column
Marian’s Column was built in 1638 to commemorate the end of Swedish occupation during the 30 years war. It stands in the centre of Marienplatz. At the top of the column is a golden statue of the Virgin Mary which was created in 1590 and was originally housed in the Frauenkirche.
In the run up to Christmas the whole of the Square is transformed into a Christmas market selling gifts, food and drink.
Odeonsplatz
Odeonsplatz is a large square in the centre of Munich. History buffs might know the square as the scene of a far-right uprising in World War II which brought a large gathering into conflict with the Bavarian Police.
Today it’s a popular tourist meeting point and close to many of the top attractions in Munich.
At one end of the square is The Feldherrnhalle. This imposing building, guarded at the entrance by two marble lions, was commissioned by King Ludwig I of Bavaria to honour the Bavarian army and is an exact replica of Loggia dei Lanzia in Florence.
On one side of the square is the Theatinerkirche. With its bright yellow exterior, two towers and large dome, it’s hard to miss. Founded in the mid 1600s, it was built to celebrate the birth of the heir to the Bavarian Crown, Max Prince Max Emanuel in 1662.
The other side of the square is taken up by the west wing of The Residenz, Germany’s largest inner-city palace and well worth a visit for its extravagant decor.
Viktualienmarkt
Located in the heart of the old town, the Viktualienmarkt has around 100 stalls selling traditional German produce as well as more exotic foods. It’s the largest outdoor market in Munich and you’ll also find a central beer garden here.
Hofbrauhaus
Munich is well known for its beer halls and if you want the full Bavarian experience head to the Hofbrauhaus. This large beer hall is spread over three floors and is quite touristy but offers authentic Bavarian cuisine and traditional entertainment for you to enjoy along with your beer.
Alte Pinakothek
Opened in 1836 the Alte Pinakothek is the one of the oldest art galleries in the world and houses a large collection of paintings from the 14th to 18th century. Highlights are Boys eating Grapes and Melon by Murillo and Madame de Pompadour by Boucher.
The Residenz
The Residenz is Germany’s largest inner-city palace. Originally built as a small castle in 1385 it was extended and transformed into a palace by rulers throughout the centuries and since the German monarchy was abolished in 1918 it has also served as a seat for governments. Most of the palace was destroyed in World War II and since 1945 it has been gradually restored to its former glory. It’s now a museum and open to the public. The opulent interior reflects its once royal status. The Antiquarium is particularly impressive.
Nymphenburg Palace
Nymphenburg Palace lies in the west of the city and was once the summer residence of the former ruling royal family. The building of the palace began in 1664 and was completed almost 100 years later under the direction of several rulers of Bavaria. It is now one of the largest palaces in Germany.
To get to Nymphenburg Palace:
Take the S-bahn to the Laim stop and then take the bus to Schloss Nymphenburg stop.
Alternatively, take the underground to Rotkreutzplatz stop and then change onto the tram for Schloss Nymphenburg.
Asamkirche
Down a street lined with shops and eating places, away from the main tourist sites, lies the magnificent Asamkirche. This beautiful Baroque style church was built in the early 18th century and inside the church is full of gold leaf, stunning frescoes and stucco artwork. Not to be missed.
Frauenkirche
The Frauenkirche is a catholic cathedral which serves as the seat of the Archbishop of Munich. This large cathedral with its soaring columns and high vaulted ceiling is a landmark of the city and its two towers form a distinctive part of the city skyline.
Day Trips from Munich
Munich is well placed for a number of day trips. We did two out of town trips when we were there. The first one was to Salzburg. There’s a high speed train that leaves from the main railway station in Munich and arrives in Salzburg in just under 90 minutes. You can read about our time in Salzburg here.
The second trip we did was to Neuschwanstein Castle. Thought to be the inspiration for the Disney Castle, Neuschwanstein Castle is located in Hohenschwangau..
We took a train from Munich to the small town of Fussen. From there it’s a ten minute trip up to Hohenschwangau on either the number 73 or 78 bus. The bus stops at the bottom of the hill and you can either walk up the rest of the way to the castle or take the shuttle bus. Alternatively there are several companies online offering guided tours leaving from Munich which takes the hassle out of organising your own transport.
The castle itself is relatively small and the tour gives you the history of the castle and all about Ludwig ll, the King of Bavaria who built the castle. Most surprising is the modern technology that lies behind the 19th century walls. Climbing to the upper floors the castle, the views across the Bavarian countryside are stunning.
Final Thought
Whether you’re coming in the height of the summer or in the middle of winter Munich is a great destination for a long weekend. There’s no shortage of things to see and do. Royal Palaces, ornate churches, a wealth of history and of course the beer, Munich doesn’t disappoint and it was a trip that I’ll remember for a long time to come.
Munich
