Munich, Germany

What do fish on a stick, lederhosen, and dirndl dresses have in common? You'll find them all at Munich's infamous Oktoberfest. One of the largest, oldest, and longest-running celebrations (it began in 1810), this famous festival plays host to more than six million people over 16 days. It actually starts in September, but you can attend the final days of celebrations in October. Want to eat a sausage? They've got plenty. Love Bavarian music? Polish your dancing shoes! A fan of carnival rides? They've got those, too. Don't even get us started on the food - from slow-roasted ox to delicious, doughy pretzels, we're salivating already.
While in Munich, make time to see the Chinese pagoda and Japanese tea house in the city's English Garden. The main public square, Marienplatz is lined with historic buildings, restaurants, and the Glockenspiel (the largest and most intricate cuckoo clock you'll ever see).
Then soak up some culture at the vast Residenz Museum, one of the top museums in Munich. Have time to spare? Head off on a road trip. In six hours, you'll reach Neuschwanstein, one of the most picturesque castles in the world. It served as inspiration for Walt Disney's Cinderella Castle, just to give you an idea of the romance it holds. Or, pick one of the many rewarding Munich day trips to enhance your German experience.