Germany’s Munich has long drawn travellers for Oktoberfest, while Austria’s Salzburg – just two hours away – is celebrated as Mozart’s birthplace and a haven for classical music lovers. But beyond their famous cultural icons, the two cities offer far more to explore.

A new airport terminal is soon landing

Access to southern Germany will be easier and more convenient, with Munich Airport gearing up to welcome a brand-new terminal opening in 1H 2026. Already, the airport is rolling out the welcome mat for Asian travellers.

“At Munich Airport, we’re committed to offering Asian travellers a seamless and culturally attuned experience, whether they’re arriving or transiting,” says Ulrich Theis, director of route and passenger development at Munich Airport. “From our VIP Wing for luxury travellers to our duty-free shops stocked with popular Asian brands and our diverse culinary offerings – including our on-site brewery, Airbräu, the world’s first airport brewery – we aim to make every journey as pleasant and welcoming as possible.”

Connectivity to Asia is improving, with Munich now connected to Hong Kong with four-times weekly flights by Cathay Pacific.

Connectivity from Asia is also strengthening. Cathay Pacific launched direct flights from Hong Kong to Munich in June 2025, complementing its daily service to Frankfurt.  “Our four-times-weekly service to Munich not only marks our debut in this vibrant city that’s steeped in rich history and culture, but also underscores the strong potential we see in expanding our presence in Europe,” says Andy Wong, general manager of corporate affairs.

Experience Munich’s winter charm

In winter, Munich transforms into a festive wonderland. “Munich really has one for every taste: from the classic at Marienplatz, to a medieval one with historic food and drinks, to a queer pink Christmas market, to the ‘alternative’ market, the Tollwood,” says a representative from the Munich Tourism Board. Each market glows with twinkling lights and the scent of cinnamon and roasted almonds – the perfect antidote to the cold.

Even Munich Airport joins the festivities with its seasonal makeover, complete with a Christmas market and ice-skating rink for travellers and locals alike.

Munich Airport turns into a Christmas village with ice skating rink each winter.

Toast to Bavarian beer year round

Perhaps Munich’s most famous export, Oktoberfest (running from late September to early October) turns the city into a swirl of song, steins, and Bavarian flair. But if you miss Oktoberfest, March brings Starkbierfeste, Munich’s beloved strong beer festivals. The atmosphere is friendlier and more local, with powerful brews and hearty Bavarian snacks.

“During summertime, the beer garden season is blooming,” says the Munich Tourism rep. “Going by bike through one of the parks or just alongside the river Isar is the best way to spend a summer day in Munich.” Locals picnic by the water, swim in the Eisbach, and toast under leafy canopies. Cherry blossoms in the Olympic Park add a blush of romance to the cityscape.

Uncover traditional spa and craftsmanship

At Rosewood Munich, relaxation takes on a traditional twist with The Aufguss Journey, a 120-minute spa ritual rooted in German sauna culture. “Guided by an Aufgussmeister, guests embark on a three-phase journey – cleansing, intention, and connection,” says a representative from the hotel. A blind aroma selection personalises the experience, while body brushing, a cocoon wrap and a pine-and-spruce massage create a deeply meditative, restorative escape.

For a dose of culture, visit Nymphenburg Porcelain Manufactory, where centuries-old craftsmanship continues to flourish. Rosewood Munich can arrange private tours for up to six guests, offering an intimate 90-minute look into the art of porcelain-making.

Make a scenic stop at Lake Chiemsee

Between Munich and Salzburg lies Lake Chiemsee, often called the “Bavarian Sea.” “Especially when you travel between Munich and Salzburg, Lake Chiemsee with the two beautiful islands is a must-do,” says the Munich Tourism rep. “The island Herrenchiemsee comes with a Versailles-like castle.” A boat trip across its glassy waters makes for a refreshing pause between the two cities.

The fairytale-like Rosewood Schloss Fuschl is set on the banks of Lake Fuschl.

Lean in to classical tunes

In summer, Salzburg becomes a stage for one of Europe’s most celebrated events – the Salzburg Festival – with more than 100 performances spanning opera, theatre, and orchestral concerts. It’s a pilgrimage for classical music devotees from around the world.

The newly opened Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, a fairytale hotel set on the banks of Lake Fuschl, can arrange private, after-hours tours of Mozart’s residence, offering a rare, intimate look at the composer’s world without the usual crowds.

Fans of the 1965 classic can embark on The Sound of Music Tour, visiting filming locations such as the Mirabell Gardens and Leopoldskron Palace. It’s an irresistibly nostalgic experience – especially this year, marking the film’s 60th anniversary.

Go wild for nature and local flavours

For a new perspective on Salzburg, take an early morning hot-air balloon ride over the Salzkammergut. It’s a gentle adventure that drifts over green valleys, lakes, and chocolate-box villages, framed by the Austrian Alps.

Join a herbal walk through Salzburg’s countryside to learn about the ancient medicinal uses of native plants. In warmer months, start your morning with a brisk swim in Lake Fuschl, renowned for its drinking-quality waters, then refuel at Schloss Fuschl Fishery, a local fishery run by the same fisherman since the 1980s, who still catches and smokes trout and salmon daily – a simple but sublime experience beloved by locals.