Viktualienmarkt

The heart of the Bavarian capital is not Marienplatz but the neighboring Viktualienmarkt. The pulsating lively bustle of the market has been there for over 200 years; since 1807 the range of offerings and the space have both grown. Originally a pure farmer's market, the Viktualienmarkt over time turned into a delicatessen paradise (The word Viktualen is linked to the English word victuals, deriving from the late Latin victus, meaning "stocks" or "food"). Both domestically grown and exotic fare are available at the 140 stalls, from 40 potato varieties at "Uwe's Little Potato Stand" to persimmon and other unusual fruits at "The Exotic Miller." Of course, the market is a great place to still your hunger, whether a bite at the fish bistro, a warm Leberkäs from the horse butcher, a snack in the bar terrace or in the cozy little beer garden. The distinctive landmark of the Viktualienmarkt is the 120-foot-high maypole of the Association of Munich Breweries. Look out for the six fountain-memorials that are scattered around the market; they depict Bavarian folk singers and comedians.