Munich
From Oktoberfest to world-class art
Munich is the capital and largest city of the German state of Bavaria, on the banks of River Isar north of the Bavarian Alps. Munich is the third largest city in Germany, after Berlin and Hamburg. Munich is home to many national and international authorities, major universities, major museums and theaters. Its numerous architectural attractions, international sports events, exhibitions, conferences and Oktoberfest attract considerable tourism.
The city has several important art galleries, most of which can be found in the Kunstareal, including the Alte Pinakothek, the Neue Pinakothek, the Pinakothek der Moderne and the Museum Brandhorst. The Deutsches Museum or German Museum, located on an island in the River Isar, is the largest and one of the oldest science museums in the world.
For two weeks, the Oktoberfest attracts millions of people visiting its beer tents ("Bierzelte") and fairground attractions. The Oktoberfest was first held on 12 October 1810 in honour of the marriage of crown prince Ludwig to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The Hofbräuhaus am Platzl, arguably the most famous beer hall worldwide, is located in the city centre – and it is open throughout the whole year.
Nuremberg
A city with different facesNuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria. In the festive season, people from all over the world visit the famous Christkindlesmarkt on the Hauptmarkt.
Nuremberg (Nürnberg) was the center of the German Renaissance, melding the Italian Renaissance with the German Gothic traditions. For centuries, Nuremberg was the undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire and the preferred residence of most German kings, who kept their crown jewels here. Rich and stuffed with architectural wonders, it was also a magnet for famous artists, though the most famous of all, Albrecht Dürer, was actually born here. ‘Nuremberg shines throughout Germany like a sun among the moon and stars,’ gushed Martin Luther. By the 19th century, the city had become a powerhouse in Germany’s industrial revolution.
You should visit the famous Kaiserburg (The Nuremberg Castle). Looming over the Dürer House, from 1050 to 1571 it was the official residence of the German kings and emperors, including Frederick Barbarossa, King of Germany in 1152, Crowned emperor in 1154. This enormous castle complex above the Altstadt poignantly reflects Nuremberg's medieval might. Don't miss a tour of the residential wing (Palas) to see the lavish Knights' and Imperial Hall, a Romanesque double chapel and an exhibit on the inner workings of the Holy Roman Empire. This segues to the Kaiserburg Museum , which focuses on the castle's military and building history. Elsewhere, enjoy panoramic views from the Sinwell Tower or peer 48m down into the Deep Well.
The Nazis saw a perfect stage for their activities in working class Nuremberg. It was here that the fanatical party rallies were held, the boycott of Jewish businesses began and the infamous Nuremberg Laws outlawing German citizenship for Jewish people were enacted. On January 2, 1945, 525 British bombers destroyed over 90% of the old section of Nuremberg, the center of cruel and inhuman Third Reich ideology. After WW II, Nuremberg became the birth place for international human rights law: Nazi leaders were tried for crimes against peace and humanity by the Allies in Schwurgerichtssaal 600 (Court Room 600) of this still-working courthouse. Today the room forms part of an engaging exhibit detailing the background, progression and impact of the trials using film, photographs, audiotape and even the original defendants' dock.
Regensburg
Regensburg, just 75 km away from Greding, is according to Sir Norman Foster „one of the most beautiful cities in the world“. Discover almost two thousand years of history: From the Roman camp to a modern city, Regensburg had an especially glorious period during the Middle Ages: As the city of the Imperial Councils it became a political world stage; as a city next to a river an international trading centre. Regensburg is endlessly fascinating - we’re sure that you’ll agree with us by the end of your stay here! Take a walk (or a guided tour) through the Old City, a UNESCO world Heritage, with its wealthy merchants’ houses, the Old Town Hall, and cathedral, the Stone Bridge and the Porta Praetoria.
