Munich

Famous for hosting the annual Oktoberfest celebration of beer and German culture, Munich falls high on the bucket list for both wizened travellers and college-aged backpackers. This two-week festival of dancing, music, food, and of course, brews, welcomes the city’s highest influx of tourism in early autumn. Still, Munich’s attraction stretches far past the closing ceremonies of Oktoberfest and well into the rest of the year. The active nightlife and progressive music scene beats through this city’s veins regardless of the month, while winter’s enchanting Christmas Market light up the square with a village of holiday-inspired activities and adornments. As the Christmas tree lights fade, the city’s active snow sport following takes over. As host of the Ski World Cup, expansive ice-skating parks and an avid curling community characterize Munich making it a lively destination regardless of weather. Beyond its’ many attractions, much of the city’s draw lies in its’ charming ability to remain provincial and traditional amidst upscale modernization. Any Munich tour guide would say it is this exact contrast that makes the city an ever-satisfying tourist hotspot.