GO THERE: Hang your hat at the
Louis Hotel, located directly on the
Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s picturesque open-air market. Grab a picnic, then walk around the enormous Kleinhesseloher Lake or head over to the Eisbach River to watch surfers (yes, surfers) daring the cold temps on the river’s swells. No matter your budget, your trip won’t be complete without a visit to
Maximilianstrasse. This fashionable shopping street houses glittering designer shops (e.g., Versace, Dolce & Gabbana) and charming sidewalk cafés. Plus, it’s only a short walk from the
Hofbräukeller restaurant and its excellent beer garden. —
Elizabeth Doyle