Munich Shopping

The pioneer of Munich's mall movement first opened in the inner city in 2000 and is a genuine pleasure to stroll through thanks to the cafés and bars, art gallery, restaurant, and supermarket.

When you've finished watching the Glockenspiel on the Town Hall, browse clothes, CDs, or shoes at Ludwig Beck (www.ludwigbeck.de). The famed Kaufhof is cheaper, but the range of wares far wider (www.galleria-kaufhof.de). Hugendubel has souvenir books and English-language thrillers to help pass time (www.hugendubel.de).

All of the big names in retail seem to be concentrated on Maximilianhöfe - Armani, Versace, Chopard, Bally - making this the place to find exclusive fashions, bling, and footwear.

Stylish office supplies, fine pens, and paints are spread out over four stories right near the center of town.

Just when you thought about giving up chocolate, along comes this small emporium of cocoa-atic sin. Chocolate in all shapes, sizes, and colors…. You can even sit down for a hot cup of chocolate. Or (sacrilege!) coffee.

Go for the glad rags. This long street, which spans both the Maxvorstadt and the Schwabing neighborhoods, has a number of intersecting non-brand-name shops (though might find the odd brand name for less, especially in the second-hand sections).

Bavaria's traditional clothing has a great advantage: it's practical. A Dirndl for women is always elegant, the Lederhosen was designed for chopping down trees as well as dressing up, and the Loden coat is both stylish and warm. Lodenfrey has them all and more.

While exploring Munich's charming old town, be sure to take a stroll through its most popular open-air market, located just a few steps from the famous Marienplatz. Fresh produce abounds, but you'll also find stalls selling cheeses from all over Europe, herbs and spices, honey products, and seafood, as well as some local crafts. Stop by around lunch time and sample some local delicacies, like pork hocks (schweinshax'n) and herring.

An upscale men’s department store, Hirmer comprises five floors and stocks everything from leisurewear to executive business attire, featuring designers Armani, Zegna, and all labels in between. Expect clothing with a European flare (you are in Europe, after all). With the help of one of 160 attentive fashion advisers, choose from a staggering selection of 6,500 suits, 4,000 jackets, and 30,000 pairs of pants and jeans. If you still don’t find the perfect fit, Hirmer promises a quick turnaround on alterations – a service their business traveler customers appreciate.