Cheap holidays to Munich

As the capital of the German state of Bavaria and an important cultural centre, Munich is an ideal choice for travellers wanting the best everything on their package holidays. The city has a fascinating history, which is well represented at its fine museums and through the living history of its streets.

Located in southeastern of Germany, close to the Austrian border, Munich has a distinct personality that sets it apart from other parts of the country. This character is best represented at Oktoberfest, the world's largest annual beer and funfair. Even if you opt for a flight to and hotel in Munich at other times of the year, you'll certainly enjoy the atmosphere at the city's many famous beer halls.

Being just one hour ahead of the UK, Munich is a great city break destination from London or Manchester. Munich's Franz Josef Strauß International Airport (MUC), north of the city centre, is connected by S-Bahn transit service to the rest of the city. While German is, of course, the main language of Munich, basic English service is available in most of the popular areas of the city centre, including the major beer halls, visitor centres and museums. However, an attempt to greet locals in German is always appreciated.

Taking place from mid- or late September until the first weekend in October, Oktoberfest is a hugely popular time to visit Munich. A visit during this festival will provide an unforgettable glimpse of Bavarian culture, with comforting food, traditional dress and lots of music.

Although Oktoberfest is an experience in itself, there is plenty to enjoy in Munich at other times of the year as well. To make the most of your weekend in Munich both indoors and outdoors, visit when the weather's most ideal, between April and September.

Munich is a thriving city that offers a diverse range of activities for visitors:

• Savour a traditional meal and stein of beer at one of the city's beer halls, such as the Paulaner Bräuhaus or the most famous, the Hofbräuhaus.
• Learn about Munich's 20th-century history with a walking tour of the city or a sobering experience at the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site.
• See fine art from Germany and around the world at the Neue or Alte Pinakothek.
• Take a day trip to experience the Bavarian countryside and stop at Neuschwanstein Castle, or enjoy natural beauty in the city centre at the Englischer Garten.

Munich's history is fascinating. To learn more about the city during medieval times and its more recent history as the capital of Bavaria, look no further than a visit to the Bavarian National Museum. To explore history through art, check out Alte and Neue Pinakotheks' sprawling galleries of fine collections.

After a morning of browsing the city's museums, be sure to stretch your legs with a visit to Munich's Englischer Garten, one of the world's largest urban parks – it even has an artificial river surfing wave!

To see more of Bavaria on package holidays in Munich, venture to Neuschwanstein Castle. This must-see structure, commissioned by Ludwig II in the 19th century, is the quintessential fairytale castle.

If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Munich.

Eating and drinking your way through Munich

Munich is synonymous with great beer. Established as the Royal Brewery in the 16th century, the Hofbräuhaus is the city's best-known beer hall. Waitresses in traditional Dirndl dresses balance heavy one-litre steins of beer as they wander between the long tables. Expect oompah bands and a jolly clientele of both holidaymakers and locals. Speciality dishes to try include Weisswurst sausages, hearty pretzels and massive servings of pork knuckle with potatoes.

Each beer hall has its own specialities and visitors are encouraged to try out different locales for a true sense of the flavours of Bavaria. For instance, lovers of wheat beer should visit the Weißes Bräuhaus, and for a meal with locally sourced ingredients, Der Pschorr's menu of meats and cheeses from nearby farms is sure to impress.

Souvenirs of city breaks in Munich

There are plenty of treats to remember your time in Munich, such as a jar of locally produced mustard or a bottle of your favourite beer. Bavarians are very proud of their state, and throughout Munich, you'll find many products embellished with the blue and white of their flag. Perhaps you'll even find traditional clothing, such as a Dirndl or hat, to remind you to book another flight to and hotel in Munich.