Munich

Since 1158 the Marienplatz has served as the heart of the city. Once the site for markets and spectator events (from jousts to executions), these days, the old town square is a bit tamer, filled with street performers, restaurants and shops. You can’t miss New Town Hall on the square’s north side, whose neo-Gothic architecture makes it look much older than it is—the building completed construction in just 1908. The Glockenspiel, a hundred-year old carillon, features 32 figurines acting out moments in Bavarian history. Be mindful of your belongings while looking up. This is a pick-pocket’s haven.