One of the easiest ways to visit Germany from India is to take a direct flight to Munich from Delhi. I don't know about you, but direct flights and I have a long-standing love affair. Every time I decide on a destination, the first thing I look for are the availability of direct flights.
So there I was, an eight-hour direct flight from the Indian capital later, and I was standing in Munich, ready to begin my European adventures. The thing is, though Munich is absolutely lovely, my intentions were to spend a day in the Bavarian capital and then head off to the Netherlands. So the question was - how can I maximise my 24 hours in Munich?
If you've faced such a dilemma, fret not. Here's a quick guide on how to spend 24 hours in Munich.
One of the oldest museums in the world, it has paintings by the old masters from 13th-18th centuries. Located in the Art District, the best way to soak in some art is to visit the other two Pinakotheken museums - Neue Pinakothek and the Pinakothek der Moderne too. Together, they house about 800 paintings and serves as a journey into the history of art.
Alte Pinakothek is open everyday except Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Tuesdays and Wednesdays are open till 8:00 p.m.). A ticket to see the Permanent Exhibition is free for everyone under 18 and €9 for adults. A full day pass will cost €12.
Viktualienmarkt is Munich's outdoor farmer's market. The various stalls sell flowers, fruits, game, spices, cheese, beer, sausages and so much more. I had some of the freshest strawberries from a small fruit seller here, all reasonably priced. You can spend hours here as you take in the aromas and your stomach grumbles after a visual treat.
The market is open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and is closed on Sundays.
The man-made 18th century Englischer Garten is massive, even larger than Central Park in Manhattan. The garden has birds, fields and beer. The flowers and trees along the path make the stroll all the more enjoyable!
The garden has free entry for all.
The Nymphenburg Palace is an impressive sight. The gardens are modeled after those in Versailles and include two small lakes and four smaller mansions. The construction began in 1664 under Prince Ferdinand Maria. It was later expanded and used as the Wittelsbachs summer residence. King Ludwig II was even born here.
The palace opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m. from April 1st to October 15th for €15, and opens at 10:00 a.m. and closes at 4:00 p.m. from October 16th to March 31st for €12.
Michael Jackson has always been loved in Munich and a massive memorial has been built for him below the statue of the Renaissance composer Orlande de Lassus. The memorial of the beloved singer is visited by many fans each day.
Germans love their food and beer. Munich is filled with beer gardens, with many even having playgrounds for children. In fact, the world-famous Oktoberfest is celebrated in the city for which millions descend, just to drink beer! With the beer, munch on local delicacies or traditional German food such as sausages, pretzels, sauerkraut and schnitzels.
Tip: If you have more time on your hands, head to Neuschwanstein Castle on a day trip. The castle inspired Walt Disney and makes for stunning photographs. The castle is easily accessible so one can do it individually or with a tour group.
There are direct flights to Munich International Airport (Muenchen Airport) available from all international airports in India. You will need a Standard Visitor Visa or Schengen Visa, since Germany is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Zone.