Home to German soccer giant Bayern Munich, Munich is the southernmost city in Germany to host the 2006 World Cup final matches. The city is poised to build on its already immensely important reputation in world sport ( the city hosted the 1972 Olympic Games, the 1974 World Cup final and the UEFA EURO’88 final) hosting the opening match of the tournament: Germany v Costa Rica on June 9.
The stadium, called Allianz Arena, is located a little north of the city, in the Frottmanning district. It is easily accessed. The A9 motorway connects the city to the new stadium, while Munich International Airport is served by the A92, a motorway that intersects with the A9 west of the airport.
Whether you’re approaching the stadium from the city or from the airport, there’s certainly no danger of missing the Allianz Arena. Its gigantic translucent structure resembles a donut-shaped pillow fit for a giant. There is really nothing like it in Germany. Once inside the stadium, don’t be surprised if you find yourself looking around in amazement. The structure seems to have more in common with a futuristic spaceship than a football stadium. It’s just awesome.
Four things you must do in Munich
Aside from the World Cup, Munich offers a host of attractions for its visitors to enjoy. No matter how short your stay in the city is, here are four things you simply must do!
Visit to the Beer Garden: There are a lot of them in Munich! After all, Munich has long been revered as one of the beer capitals of the world.
Try a Bavarian sausage: Munich is the capital of Bavaria, a free state famous for its forests, its mountains and one of the largest car manufacturers in the world… BMW or Bavaria Motor Works. It is also the birthplace of the authentic German sausage. Try the Weisswurt…you won’t be disappointed!
See the Nymphenburg: The Nymphenburg is a Baroque palace built in the 17th and 18th centuries. It offers a true insight into Bavaria’s royal past. The palace façade is three times as long as the Olympic Stadium in Munich!
Take a walk in the English Garden: The outdoor centerpiece of Munich is this 5 km long grassy park. It was built in 1789 and contains many features, including a rotunda in the classical style. If you are looking for peace and quiet in the heart of Munich, this is the place to be.
get to munich
Many world airlines fly directly into Munich International Airport. Then it’s just a matter of following the signs for the A92 road to the city of Munich and/or to the Allianz Arena.