Day 5: Rhine Valley to Munich, Germany

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We travel south through Germany to Bavaria and its capital, Munich. Our orientation tour of Munich takes us to Marienplatz with its famous Glockenspiel. Tonight, perhaps the Beer halls will beckon all you thirsty travelers?

We had just started our Journey, not even 5 mins; the Dave pointed us to the Lorelei rock. The Lorelei (originally written as Lorelei) is a rock on the eastern bank of the Rhine near St. Goarshausen, which soars some 120 meters above the water line. It marks the narrowest part of the river between Switzerland and the North Sea. A very strong current and rocks below the waterline caused many boat accidents in former times.

Marienplatz and Beer halls

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The legend tells us, that a siren called "Lorelei" bewitched the hearts of the sailors and when they looked up to the rock, their boat crashed and they sank.

After the orientation of Lorelei it was time to enjoy the beauty of Rhine. Best option could have been taking a boat ride along the Rhine, but we have to appreciate the beauty of Rhine valley, it’s pristine vineyards and castles while seating in our coach.

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Our tour manager’s orientation sheet says “Munich may be the beer capital of the world but Munich has non-beverage based activities to tempt you as well. But, after a look at the churches, a visit to the markets and some other shopping, you will probably still want to make your way to one of the beer houses Germany is famous for.”

I learnt from our tour manager’s orientation sheet that some major tourist attractions in Munich are Marienplatz, the Glockenspiel, St Peter’s church, Englischer Garten, Deutches Museum and BMW Museum. All of Munich radiates from Marienplatz and everything you need is within strolling distance. The Old and New Town Halls look down on the golden Mariensoul, built to commemorate the city being saved from the plague. St Peter’s church, just off Marienplatz, is Munich’s oldest church, and for fantastic views across the city, you could climb the tower. The Englischer Garten has beer gardens and nude sunbathing. The Deutsches Museum is one of the most famous technology and science museums in the world. And it’s the biggest there is! Eight floors of displays from boats to telescopes to robots can keep you busy for hours. Located near the Olympic site, the BMW Museum is one only for massive fans of the Bavarian Motor Works vehicles.