When people think of Munich in Germany, they often picture giant beer gardens, beautiful architecture, and of course, Oktoberfest. However, if you spend a weekend in the Bavarian capital and really get to know the city, then another side will begin to emerge.
Expansive parks, rivers clean enough for swimming, tree-lined streets, and the proximity to the Alps make for a very relaxing and nature-filled city.
Green spaces aren’t hidden away or impossible to reach by public transport, as Munich does a great job of connecting its citizens with nature – all in harmony with each other.
For travelers hoping to have a good balance between a city break and access to nature, Munich is an ideal vacation destination. Getting to the Bavarian capital is very straightforward from the US and you’ll find many flights to Munich from the likes of Lufthansa. There’s bound to be a connection that can take you there.
Let’s take a look at what nature offers in a bustling city such as Munich.
The English Garden is much more than a simple city park
It would be enough to spend at least half a day wandering around the English Garden. It seems hardly worth it to call it just a “park”, as it’s a massive green space that provides so much to tourists and locals alike.
Larger than New York’s Central Park, Munich’s English Garden contains wide meadows with soft grass perfect for picnics or simply sunbathing. You’ll also find woodland paths shaded by a large variety of trees that have more of a forest feeling than a park.
Streams and rivers flow through the scenery, and wooden bridges provide access over waterways and also a spot to pause and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. For the more active sorts, there’s easily enough space for soccer, frisbee, jogging, cycling, and even rowing boats along the Kleinhessloher See.
The Eisbach Wave is also a must-visit, as it’s rare to find a spot where you can check out surfers taking on a standing wave in the middle of a city center! Where else can you watch professional and amateur surfers while sipping a coffee and eating a great Munich pretzel?
The importance of the Isar River
The Isar has been central to Munich for hundreds of years and just as important to the city’s identity as its architecture.
Flowing from the Alps, the river may have been a means of commerce in the past, but now it’s simply a great outdoor space for everyone to enjoy. You’ll find gravel beaches lining the banks, walking and biking trails stretching for miles, and grassy areas perfect for a warm summer picnic. Don’t forget the many beer gardens that are conveniently placed along the river!
Many locals love to swim in the river due to its cleanliness, as well as kayaking or paddleboarding for those who like a bit more relaxation on the water. For most, however, it’s simply enough to have a snack and drink while sitting at the river’s edge and watching the world go by.
Just beyond the city
While there are enough natural spaces to satisfy anyone needing a break from streets and buildings, Munich’s great advantage is how close it is to some incredible scenic areas.
Sparkling, crystal-clear lakes such as Starnberger See and Ammersee are often within an hour’s train ride from the city center. Here you’ll find sailing and swimming opportunities, as well as beautiful lakeside walks that provide a welcome escape during the hot days and nights in summer.
Furthermore, the foothills of the Alps are easily accessible for those who love exploring, with hiking trails, cycling paths, and gorgeous mountain vistas around every corner.
Munich undeniably has some of the best architecture, restaurants, and shopping streets in Germany, but it also contains some truly spectacular natural scenery for anyone needing a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
