Beyond Biergartens: A Whirlwind European Adventure from Munich

Munich. Ah, the land of pretzels, lederhosen, and, of course, fantastic beer! But beyond the bustling beer gardens and historic squares, Munich serves as the perfect springboard for exploring some of Europe's most enchanting destinations. My recent trip proved just that, a whirlwind adventure that took me to fairytale castles, musical landscapes, and the heart of a captivating capital.

Although we were two weeks early for Oktoberfest, we still drank our share of bier and ate plenty of schnitzel and currywurst.

Munich: The Gateway to Adventure

First things first, Munich itself is a gem. But its strategic location is what truly makes it a traveler's dream. We quickly realized we could easily hop on trains and drive to some incredible places.

Fairytale Dreams at Neuschwanstein

Our first day trip was to the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein). Pictures don't do it justice. Nestled high in the Bavarian Alps, this whimsical castle, commissioned by the "Mad King" Ludwig II, looks like it leapt straight out of a storybook. It's no wonder it inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle! The sheer scale, the intricate details, and the breathtaking views were absolutely mesmerizing. Be prepared for a bit of a hike or a horse-drawn carriage ride up to the castle, but trust me, it's worth every step.

My best friend and I in front of Schloß Neuschwanstein (Neuschwanstein Castle) in Bayern (Bavaria).

Salzburg: Sound of Music and Mozart's Melody

Next up, we took a smooth and scenic train ride to Salzburg, Austria. Instantly, I felt like I'd stepped onto the set of "The Sound of Music." The rolling hills, the charming streets, and the familiar landmarks were all there. We even took a "Sound of Music" tour, which was a fun and nostalgic experience.

But Salzburg is so much more than just a movie set. It's the birthplace of Mozart, and his presence is felt everywhere. We visited his childhood home and marveled at his musical legacy. And for a truly unique dining experience, we ventured into St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, the oldest restaurant in Europe, nestled within a cave! The atmosphere was magical, and the food was delicious.

Road Tripping to Prague, Czechia: A Capital of Charms

Feeling adventurous, we decided to rent a car and drive to Prague, Czechia. The drive was surprisingly easy and scenic, offering glimpses of the beautiful countryside. Prague, upon arrival, immediately captivated us. However, navigating the city itself proved to be a different adventure entirely!

Back in 2014, before the days of ubiquitous GPS-enabled map applications on our phones, we relied on our sense of direction. Let me tell you, Prague's cobble-stoned streets, with their intricate twists and turns, were masters of confusion. We’d think we were heading in one direction, only to find ourselves completely turned around and repeatedly encountered the same Swarovski store. It became a running joke, a testament to the city's old-world charm, and a reminder of how much travel has changed.

Despite the occasional disorientation, we thoroughly enjoyed exploring. The Prague Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square is a spectacle you simply can't miss. The intricate mechanisms and the animated figures are truly fascinating. Then, we strolled across the iconic Charles Bridge, lined with statues that have been touched by countless tourists seeking good luck. The sheer volume of people touching the statues shows the popularity of this location. The views of the city from the bridge were stunning.

Wenceslaus Square, a historic boulevard, was another highlight. Its vibrant atmosphere and historical significance were palpable. The city is a blend of old-world charm and modern energy, with stunning architecture, delicious food, and a lively cultural scene. And if we got lost, well, that just added to the adventure!