Shopping

Visitors to Munich usually come for the fun, the beer gardens, the cultural scene, or the nightlife -- not for the shopping. However, Munich is full of beautiful and elegant (and expensive) shops and has a number of really intriguing retailers.

The Shopping Scene

In the historic city center, you'll find an extensive pedestrian-only shopping area. Kaufingerstrasse and Neuhauser Strasse, the principal shopping streets, extend from the Hauptbahnhof to Marienplatz, then north to Odeonsplatz. For even more upscale shopping, head to Maximilianstrasse, where you'll discover numerous chic boutiques and fashion houses that rival any on Fifth Avenue. For funkier wares, head to Schwabing, the former bohemian quarter. Schellingstrasse and Hohenzollernstrasse are home to many unusual galleries and hip boutiques.

Markets -- A traditional market, Auer Dult, is held three times a year in the Mariahilfplatz. Dates vary but the months are April, July, and October. Antiques dealers, food, and Bavarian bands are present; it's a great place for bargains. Take tram 7, 15, 25, or 27.