Bavaria’s capital, Munich, is one of Europe’s great cities for sightseeing, as well as outdoor activities and hearty fare such as good German beer and sausages. Here are some of the top things to do in Munich.

Hear the Glockenspiele at the Marienplatz. The Marienplatz is Munich’s largest public square and the hub of social activities. Its clock tower houses a superb Glockenspiele, whose mechanical figures include medieval knights hold a jousting tournament and townspeople dancing. The clockwork music chimes at 11 AM and 5 PM.

Be amazed at the Schloss Nymphenburg. This sprawling castle complex started out as an Italianate villa created for Electress Henriette-Adelaide in 1663-64. It was expanded in 1715 to include four pavilions. Today it includes the Nymphenburg Porcelain Factory, gardens, and public rooms.

Shop for Christmas at a Christkindlmarkt. Christmas Markets are a Munich byword; the city has at least 20 of them. Tourists can shop for gluewein, wursts, sweets and other local delicacies at The Marienplatz, along with local crafts, linens, and Christmas ornaments. Other famous Christmas Markets in Munich include the Manger Market at Rindermarkt, the medieval market at Weissenburger Platz, Odeonsplatz, and Schwabinger Christkindlmarkt at Münchner Freiheit.

Have beer and sausage at Hofbrauhaus Munchen. Grab a seat as soon as you spot one in this popular eatery, because if you don’t you’ll get elbowed out of the way! But don’t worry, the locals are typically friendly, the staff is efficient and the band gives out with classic oompah music. Order a beer and a good German sausage (wurst) and soak up the atmosphere.

See the sights at Englischer Garten (English Garden). They may call it the “English Garden,” but it’s much more international than one might suspect. Its attractions include a Greek temple, a Japanese tea house and the “Chinese Tower” (a pagoda) that’s the site of a noted Christmas market.