Munich

Munich is a vibrant culture-clash of old and new Bavaria, mixing classic lederhosen dress and traditions with a buzzing city centre, awash with money and go-getters.

One of Munich's main attractions is the sheer breadth of activities visiting tourists can indulge in. There are countless museums, including the Deutsches Museum, the biggest science museum in the world; huge parks with lakes, biking and nude sun-bathing; a wild night-scene and the nearby Alps, great for hiking and skiing.

In a city that is one of the most prosperous in Europe, big business has by no means diluted the history of the Bavarian capital. The mechanical tower at the Town Hall is a must-see, harking back to medieval times, and there are plenty of old churches to look around, including the Peterskirche.

One thing that Muenchkins take very seriously is their beer and food, which is why Munich is host to one of the biggest beer festivals in the world, the Oktoberfest, which attracts more than six million revellers every year. Confusingly taking place in September, this fine ale and folk festival is well-worth making the trip for.