Marienplatz . Munich.

Marienplatz is one of the only city centers that doesn't feel like a city center at all. You won't be inundated with crowds, except for maybe when the Glockenspiel plays its hourly puppet show in which case, watch your wallet. Businesses and public transportation are located throughout this area, so many locals still can be seen despite the sites.

Munich's mix of old and new is evident in Marienplatz and can be appreciated by even the least educated of architectural students. It's beautiful, functional and you can find a happy, helpful German any day. Finished with this area? Hop onto Munich's excellent and thorough public metro system and be whisked away to another equally interesting part of town.