2024 ITechLaw European Conference in Munich

CMS lawyers are pleased to be attending the ITechLaw European Conference 2024 held in Munich on 30 October - 1 November.

Below you can find our top tips for those visiting Munich for the conference, helpfully provided by our Technology lawyers based in the Munich office:

Munich (Germany) is the capital of Bavaria. It is a city strongly influenced by Bavarian traditions and rich in history and culture. Many people refer to Munich as the northernmost city in Italy. This is due to the mild summer climate, a touch of Mediterranean flair and the short geographical distance to Italy.

Some Facts:

Distances:

• From Munich to the Italian border = 180 Km (approx. 112 miles)
• From Munich to Hamburg = 770 Km (approx. 480 miles)
• From Munich to Berlin (580 Km (approx. 360 miles)

Population:

• 1.589.706 inhabitants (2024). The third-largest city in Germany after Berlin and Hamburg
• The city's metropolitan region is home to about 6.2 million people and the third biggest metropolitan region by GDP in the European Union

Recommended:

• Art and Culture: Munich boasts world-class museums, galleries, and theaters. Visit the Alte Pinakothek for art lovers, the Deutsches Museum for science enthusiasts, and catch a performance at the Bavarian State Opera.
• Rich History: Munich is steeped in history, from its medieval origins to its role as the capital of Bavaria. Explore iconic landmarks like Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the historic city gates.
• Green Spaces: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in Munich's expansive green spaces. Relax in the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world, or explore the botanical wonders of the Botanical Garden.
• Transportation: Munich's efficient public transportation system makes it easy to navigate the city. Utilize the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses (the easiest way to buy tickets is via MVV app), or explore by bike along the city's extensive network of cycling paths.
• Day Trips: Take advantage of Munich's central location to explore nearby attractions. Embark on day trips to the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, the picturesque town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or the charming villages of the Bavarian Alps.
• English-friendly Destination: While German is the official language, English is widely spoken and understood in Munich. Visitors can easily communicate with locals and navigate the city without language barriers.
• Safety and Cleanliness: Munich is known for its safety and cleanliness. Enjoy peace of mind as you explore the city's streets, parks, and attractions.
• Beer Culture: Munich is synonymous with beer, particularly during Oktoberfest. Experience Bavarian beer culture at traditional beer gardens like Hofbräuhaus and Augustiner-Keller.
• Bavarian Cuisine: Indulge in hearty Bavarian dishes such as weißwurst (white sausage), pretzels, schnitzel, and sauerkraut. Don't miss out on trying traditional Bavarian delicacies at local restaurants and beer gardens e.g. Hofbräuhaus.

Not recommended:

• Travelling without cash: Don’t forget cash (there are still many local markets and smaller establishments that don't accept credit cards in Munich).
• Late hour shopping: Don't expect 24/7 shopping (unlike most major cities, Munich has strict shopping hours, and the shops close at 8pm on weekdays).
• Ordering the wrong beer: Don’t order a “Pilsener (Pils)”, always order a “Helles”.
• Feeding the pigeons: Feeding pigeons is not allowed in and around Munich.
• Walking on bike lanes: Munich is full of cyclists and there are many bike lanes. Please be aware that there might be a lot of traffic on the bike lanes and watch out for speedy cyclists when you are a pedestrian.

At CMS, we are proud to have some of the leading global legal specialists in the technology, media and communications sector.

Fuelled by huge customer demand for cutting-edge products and increased supply of pioneering services, the sectors of technology, media and communications are each undergoing unprecedented change. Innovation is key, and so tech and telecoms suppliers, and creators and distributors of media, need to protect their investments and maximise their commercial opportunities.

At CMS, our global team of over 1000 specialist Technology, Media and Communications (TMC) lawyers has been exposed to virtually every risk and challenge you face. With our long-standing focus on advising suppliers, users, regulators and financiers in the sector, we are best placed to deliver innovative solutions through our award-winning disputes, transactions, IP, commercial, data privacy and security, employment and tax practices.

To find out more about our capabilities across TMC, please visit International TMC webpage.