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February 7, 2021 //  by  Maria Haase //   Leave a Comment

Ultimate Bavaria Itinerary – Everything You Need To Plan Your Trip

Are you planning a trip to Bavaria? This Bavaria Itinerary includes all the top Bavarian sights and lesser-known gems that will make your trip around Bavaria an unforgettable vacation.

I grew up in Bavaria and always get asked for the perfect Bavaria itinerary, so I decided to put together this guide that will help you plan your trip. Of course, all the places and activities mentioned are all just suggestions and I encourage you to use this itinerary as a baseline and adjust it according to your interests, duration of your visit, and budget.

Day 1-3 Munich

Day 1 in munich.

On Day 1 in Munich, I would suggest a hop-on hop-off tour of Munich. This is a great way to get a feel for the city, see the top sights, and learn a bit about the history of Munich.

If you prefer something a bit more intimate, you can also do a walking tour of Munich. There are several options from general walking tours, to historic walking tours, and of course, food tours.

Some of the top places to visit in Munich you should not miss:

Marienplatz | Viktualienmarkt | Hofbräuhaus | English Garden | Munich Beer Gardens | Old & New Pinakothek | Deutsches Museum | Modern Pinakothek | BMW Museum | Olympic Stadium

Day 2 in Munich

On Day 2, I would suggest a day trip out to Berchtesgaden and the famous Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s summer home in the Bavarian Alps. While this place certainly has a dark history, it is one of the top day trip destinations from Munich and a very interesting place to visit.

If you are not into history, there is plenty of other things to, such as hiking, shopping, and more. The surroundings of this alpine Bavarian village is spectacular and a great way to see the beautiful mountains.

Day 3 in Munich

On your third day in Munich, I suggest you head to the Dachau Concentration Camp, just outside of the city. I highly recommend a guided tour, so you can learn more about the history about the tragic events that took place there during the NAZI regime.

It is a heartbreaking and gut-wrenching place, but I personally believe that it is important to visit these places to show respect to the victims by learning about what happened.

In the afternoon, make your way to Nuremberg, your next stop on the itinerary.

Day 4-6 Nuremberg

Day 4 in nuremberg.

On your first full day in Nuremberg, I suggest you explore the medieval city center, the fortress overlooking the city, and maybe add a little bit of shopping to your day plan.

Day 5 in Nuremberg

On your second day in Nuremberg, you should plan a day trip to Franconian Switzerland. This region is absolutely stunning. Tiny medieval villages with beautiful half-timbered houses dot the countryside in this mountainous region.

Day 6 in Nuremberg

On your last day in Bavaria’s second-largest city, head over to the Reichsparteitagsgelände (NAZI rally grounds), the area where Hitler had huge rallies and party conventions. The museum there has very interesting exhibits about the Nazi regime, with a special focus on the propaganda used to manipulate the German people.

After you explore the grounds and the museum, take a stroll around the Dutzendteich before you head to your next stop: Bamberg.

Day 7 Bamberg

Bamberg is known as the Beer Capital of Germany. It has one of the highest brewery densities in the country. Many of the small restaurants brew their own beer. A must-try is the Schlenkerle , a small restaurant/brewery that makes a unique smoked beer.

And if you are a homebrewer, the name Weyermann might ring a bell. They are one of the top Malt producers in the world and ship to over 135 countries. They even offer a tour of their facilities including a tasting of craft beers that use their various malts.

If you want to do even more Beer stuff, check out the Brewery Museum in Bamberg .

But no worries, if you are not into beer. Bamberg is a really quaint town that is worth your visit nonetheless. Check out the half-timbered houses along the River Regnitz and visit the painted city hall built over the river.

Day 8 Würzburg & Franconian Wine Villages

After indulging in a beer or two in the Capital of German Beer, you will now explore the one and only wine region of Bavaria. This small wine region along the Main river is famous for its dry white wines, mainly Silvaner and Riesling. If you prefer something a little sweeter, try a Bacchus or a Scheurebe.

As you drive along the Main River, enjoy the picturesque Franconian villages , stop for a wine tasting and try some local specialties. I grew up in this area and my favorite villages are: Volkach, Prichsenstadt, Iphofen, and Marktbreit.

Then make your way to Würzburg, the main city of the region. Visit the UNESCO Heritage site, the Würzburger Residenz , or take in the view over the city from the Fortress Marienburg .

Day 8 Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most famous German villages. The iconic medieval town looks like straight out of a fairytale. Half-timbered houses, cobble-stoned streets, and a medieval city wall makes this town a favorite among international tourists.

A word of warning though: It does get crowded and busy, especially if you come between 10-6. Before and after the day-trippers, it is much more pleasurable to enjoy this little town.

Dubbed the Christmas City of Germany, check out the Christmas Museum and the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt store that will put you in the Holiday spirit all year round.

Things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber:

• Walk the medieval city walls
• Visit the Medieval Crime Museum
• Visit Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Store & Christmas Museum
• Climb the City Hall Tower
• Visit Tauber Bridge
• Visit “das Plönlein and take the iconic photo (see above

Where to Stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber:

Hotel Herrenschlösschen  |  Burghotel  |  Romantik Hotel Markusturm Villa Mittermeier Hotellerie und Restauration

Day 9-11 Romantic Road

If you are following this Bavaria itinerary, you have already driven on the Romanic Road (Romantische Straße) for the last two days. This designated road trip through Bavaria and Baden-Würtemberg starts in Würzburg, then goes to Rothenburg, via Augsburg and ends in Füssen.

While you can technically drive the 366 km (227 miles) in one day, I highly recommend taking your time. In this case, remember your famous Confucius saying: The Road is the Reward!

Pick a few towns and villages along the way, stop, take pictures, eat delicious German food, and meet the locals. Be spontaneous. Explore. Have fun!

Day 12-13 Füssen (Neuschwanstein Castle & Hohenzollern Castle)

The last town on the Romantic Road is Füssen, the gateway to one of the most famous sights in Bavaria if not all of Germany: Neuschwanstein Castle. I highly recommend spending the night in Füssen, so you can get to the entrance bright and early before the tour busses arrive.

Another must is the lesser-known Hohenschwangau Castle, the child-hood castle of Ludwig II. You will also have a stunning view of Neuschwanstein from there.

I recommend you spend at least a night or two in Füssen to give you enough time to explore the castles and maybe go for a hike in the beautiful mountain region Algäu.

Things to do in Füssen

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Hohenschwangau Castle
• High Castle Füssen
• Wieskirche (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Where to Stay in Füssen

Dreimaderlhaus – Boutique Hotel   |  Hotel Sonne Füssen  |  Hotel Hirsch Füssen  |  Vitusfort

Day 14 Return to Munich

On your last day of your Bavaria Itinerary, head back to Munich, check off another beer garden from your list and indulge in one last delicious German meal before you head back home.

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From the cloud-shredding Alps to the fertile Danube plain, the Free State of Bavaria is a place that keeps its clichéd promises. Story-book castles bequeathed by an oddball king poke through dark forest, cowbells tinkle in flower-filled meadows, the thwack of palm on Lederhosen accompanies the clump of frothy stein on timber bench, and medieval walled towns go about their time-warped business.

Things to Know

Your next trip starts here.

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

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Schloss Linderhof

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Schloss Hohenschwangau

King Ludwig II grew up at the sun-yellow Schloss Hohenschwangau and later enjoyed summers here until his death in 1886. His father, Maximilian II, built…

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

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KZ-Gedenkstätte Dachau

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Schloss Nymphenburg

This commanding palace and its lavish gardens sprawl around 5km northwest of the Altstadt. Begun in 1664 as a villa for Electress Adelaide of Savoy, the…

Residenzmuseum

Home to Bavaria's Wittelsbach rulers from 1508 until WWI, the Residenz is Munich's number-one attraction. The amazing treasures, as well as all the…

Würzburg Residenz

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Bavaria and beyond

Best 10 day Bavaria Itinerary + 5 to 7 day trip ideas

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As the largest state in the country, the Bavaria region boasts picturesque towns, vibey beer gardens, and scenic road trip routes across southern Germany. There’s so much to do and see here that you may not know where to begin your Bavaria itinerary. But don’t sweat it – our 10 day Bavaria itinerary is here to save the day!

You’ll travel across some of the best places to visit in Germany , from charming medieval towns like Nuremberg to the magical castle lands of the Bavarian Alps. 

Now buckle up, and get ready to experience central Europe like never before.

Ultimate 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: 10 days in Southern Germany

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10-day Bavaria itinerary: at a glance

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick rundown of how we conquered Bavaria, Germany, in just ten days. 

This road trip itinerary is packed with epic experiences, from unmissable tourist attractions such as the Marienplatz to hidden gems like Obersee Lake tucked into the mountains.

• Day 1 in Bavaria itinerary: Explore Munich’s Old Town. The Altstadt is where you’ll find the most popular tourist attractions in Bavaria’s capital.
• Day 2 in Bavaria itinerary: Take a deeper dive into Munich’s cultural heritage, from royal palaces to art galleries. Visit the art district for a close-up look at Munich’s stunning collection of modern art, artifacts, and paintings.
• Day 3 in Bavaria itinerary: Wrap up your three days in Munich by hanging out with all the other tourists at English Garden for a fun-filled day laying out on lawns along a riverbank.
• Day 4 in Bavaria itinerary: Learn about the life of mad King Ludwig at Neuschwanstein Castle while taking in gorgeous alpine views of the Bavarian countryside.
• Day 5 in Bavaria itinerary: Head over to Eagle’s Nest to learn about the lives of Adolf Hitler and his party members. The Berghof has some of the most stunning views of the alps.
• Day 6 in Bavaria itinerary: Visit Dachau Concentration Camp for an in-depth look into the atrocities of the Third Reich and pay homage to those who were imprisoned and ultimately lost their lives here.
• Day 7 in Bavaria itinerary: Stroll through one of the oldest cities in Germany, Bavaria. Augsburg was home to one of the wealthiest families in southern Germany, the Fuggers – who developed the Fuggerei.
• Day 8 in Bavaria itinerary: Explore the postcard-worthy medieval scenery in Nuremberg’s Old Town and its bustling main market square.
• Day 9 in Bavaria itinerary: Admire the gorgeous museums and numerous gothic-style churches dotted across Nuremberg.
• Day 10 in Bavaria itinerary: Get a glimpse of Germany’s Romantic Road in the picturesque town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Kickstart your Bavaria Itinerary with Three Days in Munich | Where to stay in Munich

Munich is an excellent place to start your Bavaria itinerary, as it’s the region’s capital and the largest city. This city is most commonly known for hosting the most popular beer festival in the world – the annual Oktoberfest. 

Munich Airport is the second busiest in Germany in terms of passenger traffic after Frankfurt. It is located about 43 km (or 26.7 miles) away from Marienplatz train station or the city centre. 

You can take the train to get there (and it takes 45 minutes and costs about 11.90 euros). 

Or pick up a car rental from the airport, which will take about 30+ minutes to get to Marienplatz. 

You can also book an airport transfer by bus here

Here is our hotel recommendation for 3 days in Munich, 

• Hotel Europa – Clean, contemporary, and easy on the pocket – that’s Hotel Europa. This highly-rated hotel offers everything you’ll need for your Bavaria itinerary, from a soundproof room to a delicious buffet breakfast. Book your stay here .  
• Hotel München City Center affiliated by Meliá: A centrally located mid-budget hotel is the TRYP City center/Munchen city center. The rooms are simple, and you will find a lot of restaurants and small shops nearby. Check availability here
• Hotel MIO by AMANO – Brimming with modern decor, this star-rated hotel is the perfect choice for a central location. You’ll be served an à la carte or vegetarian breakfast daily and enjoy luxury hotel amenities, like an onsite bar and free Wi-Fi. Book your stay here .   

Day 1 of the Bavaria Itinerary – Munich’s Old Town (The Altstadt)

There’s no better place to get the feel of Bavaria than in Old Town. 

Affectionately known as the Altstadt München, this gorgeous medieval town is smack dab in the heart of Munich and boasts incredible scenery. 

The Altstadt is an excellent place to admire Munich’s bustling squares, old churches, and town halls.

Walking tour around Old Town

Take a guided tour walking around the picturesque Old Town. Popular attractions like the New and Old Town Hall, Marienplatz (or Mary’s Square) , and St. Peter’s Church are must-visits.

Marienplatz is Munich’s cultural hub; there’s plenty to do, so you should expect lots of tourists. 

Stop by the Hofbräuhaus beer hall for a cold beer and a warm plate of hearty German cuisine.

Hang out at the Viktualienmarkt

The Viktualienmarkt is a popular daily market with over 100 vendors selling the freshest local produce, gourmet food, bread, spices, wines, and of course, beer! 

While this market mainly attracts foodies and beer lovers, you can find other points of interest, like magical figurine fountains and the Heilig Geist Church.

And if you’re up for an adventure, how about going on a  Bavarian beer and food tour for an in-depth dive into the gastronomy of southern Germany?

Note: Viktualienmarkt stalls are open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, but some vendors may be closed on Mondays.

Attend a concert at Munich Residenz

Wrap up the first day of your Bavaria itinerary with a classical Munich Residenz concert. We suggest you arrive early, so you have enough time to admire the marvelous interior. 

The complex has about 150 rooms, and each one is layered with impressive frescoes and regal decor. 

During the concert, you’ll enjoy wine-ing and dining while entranced by a breathtaking show at the same place where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once played. 

Honestly – we can’t think of a better way to end the day, can you?

Day 2 of the Bavaria Itinerary – Munich’s heritage, art, and culture

On your second day in Munich, it’s time to explore some of the historical nuggets in this city. 

Whenever you visit Bavaria, checking out the local art scene is imperative. Munich holds some of the country’s most extensive collections and attracts many creative minds annually.

Visit Nymphenburg Palace

Surrounded by nearly 445 acres of lush landscape, Nymphenburg Palace is one of the top royal properties in Europe. 

The complex has a fascinating history of being the summer residence for the birth of Max Emanuel, the long-awaited heir to the Bavaria throne. 

Regular guide-led tours may be hard to come by here, but you can explore this royal residence with an audio tour available in various international languages. 

Inside Nymphenburg Palace, you’ll be greeted by ornate wall designs and impressive frescoes dotted throughout the royal apartments and galleries. 

And don’t get us started with the garden; its parterres are lined with colorful flowers and fountains.

Admire art in the Kunstareal District

And after taking in the majesty of Nymphenburg Palace, head over to Kunstareal for a deeper dive into one of Europe’s most important centers of culture and art. 

Located in the heart of Munich, the Kunstareal District is home to 18 renowned museums and art venues exhibiting stunning paintings and artifacts. 

The quarter also boasts six universities, about 40 modern art galleries, and several cultural institutions, all within walking distance – wow!

Some notable sights worth checking out include the Museum Brandhorst, the Old and New Pinakothek, and the Museum of Egyptian art.

Explore Munich’s historical churches

Bavaria, Germany, is home to several magnificent churches. Munich alone has about 25 churches, each more elaborate and regal than the last. 

The Cathedral Church Of Our Lady, also known as Frauenkirche, is a popular tourist stop. It’s one of the largest hall churches in Germany, featuring inner chapels, octagonal pillars, and two giant clock tower structures that you can see from afar.

Just minutes away from the Frauenkirche, you’ll stumble upon the Gothic-styled St. Peter’s Church with its Baroque-influenced interiors and iconic clock tower, piercing the azure skies. 

Other notable churches to check out when you visit Munich include the white-washed St. Michael’s Church, St. Boniface’s Abbey, and the stunning Trinity Church.

Note: During peak season, these baroque buildings are often packed with tourists, so arrive early to get the best pics without too much foot traffic.

Day 3 of Bavaria Itinerary – Munich’s fun attractions

You want to go all out for your last day in Munich, right? So spend your final day in Munich wandering through the city’s most thrilling attractions. 

If walking around isn’t your thing, you may enjoy sightseeing on the double-decker hop-on hop-off tour buses.

Laze around at the English Garden

The English Garden is the beating heart of Munich’s city center. 

Just imagine this, a 1.45 square mile public park dotted with lush riverbanks, pathways, stunning Asian gardens and towers, and charming cafes – what more could you ask for? 

This natural oasis is a great place to hang out in Munich. It has something for everyone, from nature lovers to surfing enthusiasts, sunloungers, joggers, and many more.

Wander around Olympiapark

Olympiapark is another fantastic green space you can visit. Constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics, this complex still hosts sporting, cultural, and religious events. 

While there may not be much going on when you visit, this is an excellent place for walking around, connecting with nature, and taking tons of photos.

Catch a Bayern Munich game at Allianz Arena

This is not for everyone, but we can already hear the football fans cheering in the background. 

Bayern Munich is one of the best football teams in the world, and when you’re in their hometown, seeing a game is a no-brainer.

Football is part of Bavaria’s cultural flair, and the Allianz Arena is where it all comes to a boil. 

Every other Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday, thousands of local fans come here to support their team by chanting, dancing, and savoring every goal.

Two days in the Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps are a special place in Germany. These towering snow-capped peaks attract thousands of skiers and snowsport lovers from across the globe. 

But that’s not all this alpine wonderland has to offer – it’s also home to beautiful fairytale castles.

Where to stay in the Bavarian Alps

Hotel Sonne – This 4-stay hotel is where you’d want to wake up every morning in the Bavarian Alps. 

Boasting perfectly blended earth tones and pops of green and salmon, this hotel offers quirky rooms and an extensive buffet breakfast. Book your stay here.

Day 4 of the Bavaria Itinerary – Visiting the Alps’ fairytale castles

You can find a heap of magical castles dotted all over Germany and central Europe , but none can compare to the grandeur of these royal palaces. 

Explore Neuschwanstein Castle

Perhaps the most stunning, ornate, and dramatically-located castle in Bavaria, the Neuschwanstein Castle, resembles something straight out of a storybook. 

In fact, this historical palace is known as the inspiration behind the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty . 

Although many visitors opt for a short day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich, we urge you to spend the whole day exploring this fortress and its neighbors nearby. 

Top Tip: A guided tour through this royal residence will give you a sneak peek into the refuge of King Ludwig II.

Stop by Hohenschwangau Castle

After seeing where mad King Ludwig spent a lot of his years, head over to Hohenschwangau Castle to marvel at the king’s childhood residence. 

While this castle is often overshadowed by its more famous and glamorous neighbor, Hohenschwangau Castle is definitely worth a visit. 

You’ll be dazzled by the ornate ballrooms and salons as they depict a medieval tale of Lohengrin, the Knight of the Swan. 

Visit Linderhof Palace

The white-faced Linderhof Palace is the smallest of the three palaces built by King Ludwig II. It is the only one he lived to see complete. 

While the lavish Rococo interior will leave you stunned, the outside is where the magic is. 

The gardens surrounding Linderhof Palace are considered the most beautiful in the history of garden design. 

You’ll find a harmonious blend of Baroque and Renaissance landscape elements, beautiful fountains, and symmetrical lawns.

Top Tip: If you’re short on time, we recommend bundling the Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace into one guided tour.

Day 5 of the Bavaria Itinerary –  Wander the lanes of the Alps’ charming towns

Nothing spells out a mountain getaway like spending the day in a quaint alpine village with nothing but snow-capped peaks and glistening lakes on the horizon.

Explore Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is one of the most picturesque villages in Bavaria. This mountain retreat boasts a whirlwind of adventures to keep you busy. 

Start the day walking around Old Town, where you’ll stumble upon charming cafes and shops to grab a bite and souvenirs.

The Berchtesgaden also has plenty of hiking trails that lead to overlooks with jaw-dropping alpine views. 

But if you’re not up for a hike, catch an electric passenger ferry on Kings Lake, and see Berchtesgaden from the water.

Tour Eagle’s Nest (The Berghof)

If you’re a history buff who finds World War II stories fascinating, take some time to tour Eagle’s Nest.

Perched atop the Kehlstein summit, Eagle’s Nest is a Nazi fortress that overlooks Obersalzberg and Berchtesgaden in southern Bavaria.

Eagle’s Nest was exclusively for Nazi members; they used it for social gatherings and party meetings. 

Also known as Berghof, the fortification comprises an intricate channel of bunkers, galleries, and tunnels.

Take a short day trip to Salzburg

You seriously missed out if you’ve visited Bavaria before, and it didn’t cross your mind to visit Mozart’s birthplace. But lucky for you, we’ve thought of everything in this Bavaria itinerary. 

Salzburg is a stone’s throw away from southern Bavaria, making it the perfect day trip. You’ll find plenty of things to do and see in this Austrian city. 

So make sure to add these to your Salzburg itinerary . Admire the incredible alpine scenery, hop between souvenir shops, grab a bite at a quaint cafe, and visit the UNESCO-listed Salzburg historic center.

From Salzburg, you can return back to Munich to sleep overnight. 

Read: 10 days in Prague Vienna Salzburg Budapest itinerary

Day 6 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: Spending one day in Dachau

Dachau is a charming town with all the bells and whistles that make a Bavarian city. However, it has an eerie twist that may leave some visitors feeling a little saddened.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Visit

Your in-depth lesson on World War II continues with a half-hour day trip from Munich to the laid-back town of Dachau. 

Here you’ll find Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial , where thousands were imprisoned during the Holocaust.

Today the camp welcomes nearly a million annual visitors and treats them to unforgettable memorial site tours. The feeling is surreal as you walk through the reconstructed barracks and cells. 

You’ll also tour the exhibition center, where you’ll learn how this prison quickly became an infamous death camp.

Explore Dachau

After spending a half day at the camp, head into the town center to explore more of what’s in store. Dachau may be known for doom and gloom, but this town also has beautiful historic buildings, galleries, and museums. 

Some notable points of interest in this town include Dachau Palace, Gemäldegalerie Dachau, and Bezirksmuseum.

You can return back to Munich, or stay overnight in Dachau.

Where to stay in Dachau

FreshSuites & Bar – This Dachau hotel is all about keeping it clean and minimalistic. The star-rated hotel treats you to a modern onsite restaurant, bar, and fully-equipped fitness center. Book your stay here.

Day 7 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: Spend one day in Augsburg

Augsburg is one of Germany’s oldest cities. It’s also one of Bavaria’s most picturesque towns, thanks to its Renaissance-style architecture and dazzling Christmas Markets.

Walk around the Fuggerei

The Fuggerei is the world’s oldest social housing complex. Constructed between 1514 and 1523 under the watchful eye of architect Thomas Krebs, the Fuggerei project was the brainchild of Jakob Fugger. 

This wealthy nobleman wished to create a haven where impoverished Catholic workers could live debt-free. 

After nearly 500 years, the scenery is still outstanding. Stroll through the Fuggerei maze of identical houses with a mustard facade, red roof, and green framing. 

And try not to get lost as most homes are buried under green and brown shrubbery. 

Marvel at the Augsburg Cathedral’s windows

Windows, why, right? We thought the same thing. The Augsburg Cathedral is home to the world’s oldest antique stained glass windows. 

This unusual treasure forms an integral part of the history of humankind, depicting images of notable Bible characters like the five prophets David, Daniel, Moses, Jonah, and Hosea. 

Although the exact origin of the stained glass remains a mystery, these panels attract thousands of tourists each year.

Explore Augsburg

Some tourists often skip Augsburg in their Germany itinerary, but we suggest spending at least one of your days in Bavaria here. 

You’ll find tons of appealing sites in Augsburg, like the 1,000-year-old Perlachturm belltower, the Augsburger Puppenkiste, plenty of churches, art galleries, and public fountains. 

And if you’re an animal lover, Augsburg Zoo is a great place to catch some wildlife, such as big cats and meerkats.

Where to stay in Augsburg

Haunstetter Hof – Find reprieve at the Haunstetter Hof hotel and restaurant. The setting resembles something from a vineyard. This property offers a serene garden and popular hiking trails nearby. Book your stay here .

Day 8 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary – Explore Nuremberg’s historical landmarks

A Bavaria road trip itinerary could not be complete without spending more than a day in one of the most beautiful cities in Germany . 

Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria, known for its historical landmarks, the imperial castle, and hosting the infamous Nuremberg trials.

Where to stay in Nuremberg

Park Plaza Nuremberg – Centrally located in the heart of Nuremberg, this Albrecht Dürer-inspired hotel has everything you’ll need along your Bavaria itinerary. 

You’ll get access to a signature restaurant and bar, gym, and public transportation hubs. Book your stay here.

Nuremberg’s postcard scenery brings in many tourists from across the world. The town’s colorful half-timbered buildings, such as Albrecht Dürer’s House, medieval churches, and vibey Christmas market, are some of Nuremberg’s main draws. 

Take a Nuremberg Old Town walking tour

Before you get carried away with the deep history of this town, start your day by walking through the cobblestone streets and exploring the city’s gorgeous landmarks. 

A guided tour through Old Town takes you through the main market square, which boasts a lively arts scene and gorgeous medieval architecture. 

Then you’ll stop by the Old Town Hall to explore its several doorways, dungeons, and torture chamber. 

Top Tip: You can experience all the highlights in Nuremberg via a thrilling sightseeing train tour. 

Visit the Nuremberg Castle complex

Nuremberg Castle is a dominating figure in Old Town’s northwestern skyline. This 1,151-foot-tall building is a vital structure of the most formidable medieval fortress in Europe. 

It was a symbol of the Holy Roman Empire’s power and significance.

Together with the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, this fortification is known to have housed all legitimate emperors and German kings from 1050 to 1571. 

Set atop a sandstone ridge, the complex is a great place to get sprawling views of the city below.

Stroll through Hauptmarkt

The Hauptmarkt is the main market square in Nuremberg. This vibrant marketplace has been the town’s beating heart since ancient times. 

It’s open Monday to Saturday, so you’ll have plenty of time to stroll through Hauptmarkt’s fruits, vegetables, fresh bread, ready-to-eat meals, and fresh flower stalls.

The Hauptmarkt’s aptly named “Beautiful Fountain” is an excellent place for a photo op, thanks to its ornate golden decor.

Day 9 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary – Visit Nuremberg’s museums and churches

Nuremberg’s city center is packed with intriguing museums and ancient churches. The town’s rich history is well-preserved and brought to life in the halls and exhibitions of these new and old monuments.

Brush up on some history at the Germanic National Museum

This is where you go if you’d like to know everything about German history. This national museum holds the country’s largest collection of German-related arts and culture. 

You’ll feel immersed in Germany’s heritage as you browse through over a million artifacts, religious scrolls, and historical documents. 

The museum also has an impressive collection of paintings, musical instruments, and sculptures for you to admire. 

Marvel at St. Lawrence Church’s architecture

The church of St. Lawrence is a gothic-style building towering over Lorenzer Platz. The church’s blue-crowned twin towers are a spectacle to behold and don’t get us started on the 14th-century stone brick facade.

St. Lawrence Church’s exterior is decorated with elaborate cravings, but the large rose window above the west doorway is the most prominent figure. 

Inside the church, you’ll walk through a grand hall with beautiful murals and frescoes.

Get a glimpse into the life of an artist at Albrecht Dürer’s House

Albrecht Dürer is a renowned German Renaissance artist known for his paintings and print works. The artist lived here from 1509 until he died in 1528. 

Now serving as a museum, the five-story building originally dates back to 1420 and has been dedicated to Dürer’s life and work, particularly his printed maps, since 1871. 

A guided tour takes you through several exhibits of Dürer’s creations, a reconstruction of his studio workshop, and displays of period-appropriate furniture.

Day 10 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: Spend one day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Settled in the northern part of Bavaria, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming town known for its vibrant half-timbered buildings and cobblestone lanes. 

Picture this, Nuremberg – but on steroids! It’s one of the most attractive towns in Germany , and for a good reason.

Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Hotel Goldener Hirsch – Savor Rothenburg’s charming medieval architecture by actually staying in one of the buildings. 

Hotel Goldener Hirsch boasts a lovely exterior, proximity to the Plönlein, and scenic views of the Tauber River valley. Book your stay here.

Tour the Romantic Road route

If there’s one thing you should do on this German trip, it’s to explore the Romantic Road. 

Passing through 459 km or 285 miles of lush forests and mountains, this popular route cuts through several charming towns, and luckily for you, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of them.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the best spot for medieval sightings along the Romantic Road. 

Its collection of dazzling buildings and alleyways make this town a prime example of a walled medieval village – one of the last of its kind.

Snap some pics at Plönlein

Plönlein is arguably the most picturesque part of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Translating to “Little Square”, this quaint intersection boasts a gorgeous skinny half-timbered building that divides two streets.

The street on top leads to the Siebers Tower — a landmark with a small arch that served as the entrance to Rothenburg ob der Tauber several hundred years ago. 

In contrast, the lower street takes you down to the Kobolzeller Tower, which leads you to the breathtaking scenery beyond the valley.

Alternate Bavaria Itinerary: One Week Bavaria Road Trip

It would be nearly impossible to explore all that Bavaria, Germany, has to offer in just a few days. But if 7 to 10 days is what you got then let’s make the most of it. Here is an alternate itinerary option,

One Week Road Trip to Bavaria, Germany 

Day 1 : Munich – Start your trip in Munich, the capital of Bavaria. Munich is known for its lively Oktoberfest celebration, delicious beer gardens, and beautiful Gothic architecture. 

Don’t forget to visit world-renowned museums like the BMW Museum and the Deutsches Museum during your time in Munich!

Book: A walking tour of Old Town and its attractions

Day 2 : Neuschwanstein Castle – From Munich, head south to Schwangau to see the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. This castle was built by King Ludwig II and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Germany. 

Stay in Fussen overnight. 

Day 3: Tegernsee Lake – After exploring Neuschwanstein Castle, drive to Tegernsee Lake where you can enjoy stunning mountain views and go on a short hike. 

Day 4: Berchtesgaden National Park – Continue your road trip by heading southeast to Berchtesgaden National Park. 

The park is known for its breathtaking scenery as well as its many hiking and biking trails. You can also take a cable car up to the park’s highest peak, Mount Watzmann! 

Day 5: Zugspitze Mountain – From Berchtesgaden National Park, head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen where you can take a cable car up to Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze. This mountain offers stunning views of both Germany and Austria and is perfect for a day of hiking or skiing. 

Day 6: Nuremberg – From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, drive to Nuremberg. Be sure to visit sites like the Nuremberg Castle and the Nazi Party Rally Grounds during your time in Nuremberg! 

Day 7: Bamberg – Finally, end your road trip in Bamberg which is located just northwest of Nuremberg. Bamberg is known for its beautiful Old Town which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

You can also visit Bamberg Cathedral and experience the city’s well-preserved medieval town aesthetics. 

Alternate Itinerary: 5 days in Bavaria Itinerary by Public Transportation and/or day tours

If you are not renting a car, you can spend 5 days in Munich and then venture outside to explore more of Bavaria. You can use both day tours or trains to get to various destinations. 

Day 1 in Munich : Start your trip with a visit to Munich’s cultural delights. Visit one of its most famous landmarks, the Frauenkirche. This cathedral is known for its twin spires and is located in the heart of the city. 

Once you’ve taken in the beauty of the Frauenkirche, explore some of the other sights nearby, such as Marienplatz and Peterskirche. 

In the evening, head to Hofbräuhaus, a world-famous beer hall, for a traditional Bavarian meal and some local beer.

Day 2 in Munich : Make your way to Olympiapark, built for the 1972 Summer Olympics. Take a walk through the park or ride the Olympic Tower for stunning views of the city below. 

In the afternoon, visit one of Munich’s many museums and then end your day with a stroll through Englischer Garten, one of the largest public parks in Europe.

Day 3 Munich to Fussen: On day 3, spend some time outside of Munich and venture into the Bavarian countryside. 

Take a day tour to Neuschwanstein Castle, located about 2 hours away from Munich. This 19th-century castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany. 

After touring the castle, enjoy some time in Linderhof Palace Gardens before heading back to Munich.

Day 4 Munich to Nuremberg: Start the day by exploring the historic old town of Nuremberg. 

Stroll down cobbled streets and admire the beautifully preserved buildings – many of which date back hundreds of years. 

Make sure to visit sites like the Nuremberg Castle, and the Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg’s central market square. This is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and people-watch. 

In the afternoon, take a walk along the Pegnitz River or visit one of Nuremberg’s many parks. 

Day 5 Munich to Dachau: Go on a half day tour to Dachau and then enjoy a food tour in Munich. 

Or walk through Viktualienmarkt, an open-air market that has been around since 1807. Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, meat, cheese, and more before stopping for lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area. 

Alternate Option : Garmisch Partenkirchen (town)

If you wish to go hiking, choose Partnach Gorge for a 1.50-hour round-trip hike. You can get to Garmisch Partenkirchen by bus. It is a beautiful Bavarian town, and then walk 25 minutes+ to the trailhead to start the hike. 

Sightseeing Bavaria Map for One week to 10 days in Bavaria Itinerary

Travel Tips for Bavaria: Southern Germany Road Trip Itinerary

When planning a trip to Bavaria, there are a few things you’ll need to know before you go. 

From figuring out when to go and what to pack, to tourist visas, and finding the best activities for your interests, we’ve got you covered. 

Where is Bavaria located?

Bavaria is located in the southeast of Germany and is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and ancestral castles.

Tourist Visas for Germany

Germany is a European Union member, and it follows the Schengen agreement to allow non-visa-exempt passport holders to enter the country. 

If you need a Schengen visa, be sure to apply for it prior to your trip. 

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

Arriving in Bavaria Germany

Munich International Airport -Franz Josef Strauß is the best point of entry to kick start this road trip or itinerary for Bavaria. We found decent flights to get there from Canada. 

This airport serves Munich as well as Upper Bavaria. 

Your next best option to arrive in Germany is Frankfurt Airport. 

You can get to Munich from Salzburg Austria by train or road as well. 

Getting around Bavaria

The form of transportation you choose to travel across the region may make or break your Bavaria itinerary. But luckily for you, Germany has a sophisticated network of roads and rails at your disposal. 

The three main ways to travel through Bavaria are by going on a road trip, by taking trains, or by tour buses.

Travel via rental car

If you are planning a Bavaria road trip, hiring a rental car is your best bet. This allows you to curate and alter your itinerary on the go as you see fit. 

It also gives you the liberty to stop along scenic routes and admire the wonders of Bavaria.

Note: Always adhere to the German rules of the road , including the speed limits and road signs.

Travel via public transportation

Your Bavaria itinerary may be totally reliant on public transportation (no judgment – we did it with our Iceland itinerary ). 

If that’s the case, you’ll be using trains and buses to get around. And that’s easy to do; just get the Deutsche Bahn Bayern Pass. 

You’ll get unlimited day trips around Bavaria for the day, from as little as $27.

Travel via tours

Booking guided tours from one Bavarian town to another is also an excellent alternative transportation method. 

You can take day trips from the city you’re based in, for example, Munich, to places like the Alps and Nuremberg for a half-day or full-day tour.

When to Visit Bavaria 

Bavaria is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to choose the right time of year to visit. 

The weather in Bavaria can be quite cold in the winter, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. 

If you’re not a fan of the cold, spring or fall might be a better time for you. Summers in Bavaria is beautiful but can be quite crowded due to the influx of tourists. 

In our opinion, the best time to go is between late spring and early fall when the weather is ideal. 

During this time, you’ll be able to take advantage of all that the region has to offer including hiking, biking, and exploring. 

And if you’re lucky enough to be there during Oktoberfest, don’t forget to swing by one of the many beer tents for a stein or two! 

Activities in Bavaria 

There are endless possibilities for activities in Bavaria depending on your interests. 

If you love hiking and being outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails with stunning views. 

For those interested in history and culture , there are museums, castles, and historic sites throughout Bavaria. 

And let’s not forget about the food! There are countless restaurants and cafes serving traditional German cuisine as well as more modern dishes. 

In Bavaria, you’ll find traditional dishes such as Weißwurst (veal sausage), Leberkäse (a type of meatloaf), and Hendl (roast chicken). 

Packing for Your Trip 

When packing for your trip to Bavaria, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First off, if you’re visiting during the winter months, you’ll need to pack warm clothes as it can get quite cold.

Additionally, comfortable walking shoes are a must as there will likely be a lot of walking involved during your trip (trust me, your feet will thank you later). 

Finally, don’t forget to pack your camera so you can capture all the amazing sights (and delicious food) that Bavaria has to offer!

Other items to add to your road trip:

• Universal Adaptor: To charge all of your electronics. Check price here
• GPS: Ask for a GPS from the car rental. Or at least save the map listed in this post to navigate in Germany
• Rain jacket: The weather in Bavaria can be unpredictable (especially in spring and fall), so it’s always good to have a rain jacket on hand just in case. 
• Sunscreen & sunglasses: Don’t forget the sunscreen ! Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds and cause sunburns. 

Additional travel tips for your Bavaria 10 day itinerary

A trip to Germany is a great way to experience some of the best that Europe has to offer. Although it is not one of the cheapest countries on the continent, there are ways you can save money. If you’re on a tight budget, you can save money by staying in hostels or apartments rather than hotels. You can also save by visiting during the off-season.  Typically costs will be: Hostel or apartment: €20-€30 Food : €10-€15  Attractions : €0-€10 Total : €30-€55 per day We travel on a medium budget – prefer to stay in centrally located 3 star properties (or higher) with access to transportation and restaurants nearby. Here are some average daily costs for mid-range travel in Germany:  Hotel room : €100-€150 Food: €20-€30 Attractions : €10-€20 Total : €135-€200 per day   Now, if money is no object, then you can enjoy all that Germany has to offer without worrying about your budget. Stay in luxury hotels, eat at the best restaurants, and visit any attraction you want—the sky’s the limit! Here are some average daily costs for high-end travel in Germany:  Luxury hotel : €200+ per night Food : €50+ per meal Attractions : €20+ per attraction Total: €270+ per day

The first thing to know is that there are a few different types of roads in Bavaria. The Autobahn is the German equivalent of a freeway, and it’s where you’ll find the fastest speeds and the heaviest traffic.  The Bundesstraße, on the other hand, is a federal highway that connects major cities. These roads are generally wider and have multiple lanes.  Then there are the Landesstraßen, which are state highways that connect smaller towns and villages.  In general, driving in Bavaria is easy as long as you’re comfortable with high speeds. The speed limit on the Autobahn is actually only a suggestion.  Having said that, roads are safe and well-maintained. 

Is Bavaria worth visiting?

Do you love fairytales, cultural gems, and stunning scenery? If so, then you will love Bavaria! This southern German state is full of incredible places to explore. 

Bavaria is the largest and oldest state in Germany, with a long and storied history dating back to the days of the Holy Roman Empire. 

In more recent times, Bavaria has been home to some of Germany’s most famous exports, including lederhosen, Oktoberfest, and of course, BMW. 

With its towering castles, idyllic countryside, and charming towns and villages, it’s no wonder that Bavaria is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe. 

Here are just a few reasons why Bavaria is worth visiting: 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

A large number of sites in Bavaria are UNESCO-protected, including the Historic Centre of Bamberg, Pilgrimage Church of Wies, and the Würzburg Residence – making these attractions absolutely bucket list worthy. 

The Fairytale Road

Bavaria is/was the backdrop for many movies – thanks to its charming scenery. 

You can soak in the beauty of Bavaria by driving along the Romantic Road, which takes you through small towns and picturesque villages that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. 

The King’s castles 

No trip to Bavaria would be complete without exploring at least one of the many castles that dot the landscape. These grand palaces were once home to Bavarian kings and dukes, and they range from fairytale-like fortresses to imposing neo-Gothic masterpieces. 

Some of the most popular castles to visit include Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Hohenschwangau Castle. 

The Christmas markets 

If you love all things Christmas, then you’ll be in heaven in Bavaria! 

The Christmas markets here are some of the best in Europe, with festive stalls selling traditional holiday decorations, gingerbread cookies, mulled wine, and other seasonal delights. 

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventure, you will love exploring Bavaria. 

Wrapping up an epic 10-day Bavaria itinerary

There you have it – the ultimate Bavaria itinerary to conquer southern Germany in just ten days. 

Bavaria is a year-round destination, so whether you visit in winter or in the summer months, there’s always something fun awaiting you. Prost!

Pin: 10 day Bavaria Germany Itinerary: Road Trips, tours, and beyond

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Inspiring Germany

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Bavaria - inspiration and pure attitude to life

Inspiration and a zest for life. Bright blue skies and crystal-clear lakes. Small Medieval towns and vibrant cities. Bavarian tradition and friendly hospitality. Mysterious forests and snow-capped peaks. Outdoor activities and relaxation. UNESCO World Heritage sites and a wealth of cultural attractions.

Bavarian diversity

In southern Germany, the Free State of Bavaria and its capital Munich wow visitors with their picture-perfect scenic beauty. The area is known for its pristine countryside, clean air, wealth of culture and infamous laid-back Bavarian attitude. Medieval castles, small towns, magnificent palaces, Baroque churches and Bavaria's urban hubs provide the backdrop for traditional events and opera festivals. The traditional and the modern go hand in hand here.

Holidaymakers in need of a relaxing break and sporty types hoping for plenty of activity are sure to appreciate the many crystal-clear rivers and lakes, the national parks and countless nature reserves, the forests and sun-soaked vineyard slopes, the wild and romantic low mountain landscapes and the majestic Alpine summits. Not to mention the Zugspitze , the tallest peak in Germany. The best way to explore the sheer diversity of the countryside in the region is on the many popular tourist routes, such as the Romantic Road , the Castle Road and the German Alpine Road .

World-famous attractions

What are the hallmarks of Bavaria? Countless picturesque villages, Medieval royal seats and we mustn't forget Munich, the region's capital. Then there's magnificent palaces and Baroque-style churches, Medieval abbeys and imposing castles. Internationally renowned attractions include King Ludwig II's Neuschwanstein Castle and the Wieskirche Pilgrimage Church (a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Roman Limes, Würzburg, Bamberg, Regensburg, the Water Management System of Augsburg, the Margravial Opera House in Bayreuth and the Prehistoric Pile Dwellings around the Alps). There are more than 100,000 architectural monuments, over 1,200 museums and collections, 40 high-end theatres and opera venues across the whole of Bavaria. So there are plenty of locations for traditional events such as the Oktoberfest in Munich, the Landshut Wedding historical pageant, the Oberammergau Passion Plays and the Christmas market in Nuremberg. But it takes more than just beautiful scenery and cultural diversity to keep attracting swathes of visitors to the region year after year. Luckily, Bavaria is known for its varied range of high-end packages with a focus on wellness, families, nature (summer and winter), culture and cities, food and drink and business travel that travellers know they can depend on.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is the southern German region with a culture all of its own. In fact, many of Bavaria’s traditions and much of its cuisine are often conflated with Germany as a whole; beer halls, bratwurst, and that typical Bavarian architecture that makes everything feel as though it’s from a fairytale.

And in some ways – with its lofty mystical mountains, lush green valleys studded with forests, serene mirror-like lakes as big as seas, crumbling ruins, and still-standing castles – Bavaria really is like a fairytale. From its sublime nature to its charming medieval towns and villages, there’s almost no end to the best places in Bavaria you could be visiting on a trip to Germany.

17. Franconian Lake District

The Franconian Lake District is located in northern Bavaria southwest of Nuremberg. It’s made up of five lakes – Hahnenkammsee, Altmühlsee, Rothsee, Dennenloher See, and Brombachsee. The latter, in fact, was created by one of Germany’s largest-ever water-management projects.

Man-made or not, this and the other lakes form an unspoiled area that’s ripe for outdoor activities. Surrounded by meadows and small villages, the lakes are also ringed with several beaches, with water sports and hiking the order of the day. Camping, or staying in cozy guesthouses, has to be the best way to see the Franconian Lake District.

16. Nuremberg

The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is a busy, lively city that’s popular with international travelers and locals alike all year. Best known for the Nuremberg Trials, this city was formerly the residence of German kings, and is the site of the fantastic Nuremberg Castle; built in 1495, it’s a medieval wonderland.

Much of the city was destroyed during World War II. Thankfully, most of the charming Altstadt (Old Town) was constructed afterward, using original stone no less, giving Nuremberg back its medieval charm. The city’s Christmas Market marks one of the most popular times to visit Nuremberg.

15. Landshut

Situated between Munich and Regensberg, Landshut is a pretty medieval town. It is best known for the Landshut Wedding, a quadrennial re-enactment of a medieval wedding, including jousting, feasting and knights’ tournaments.

One of its best sights has to be St. Martin’s Church. This brick Gothic church was built in 1389 and features a soaring spire, making it the tallest church in Bavaria. There’s also Trausnitz Castle, founded in 1204, that today boasts Renaissance architecture.

The Landtor area is a beautiful place for shopping, eating, and drinking amid the historic buildings of the Old Town. Landshut is also conveniently located close to Franz Josef Strauss International Airport, and the town boasts a surprising amount of lodgings set in charming heritage buildings.

14. Augsburg

One of the oldest cities in Germany, having been founded by the Romans in 15 BC, it’s also the largest town to be located on Germany’s Romantic Road. From the 13th century, Augsburg was actually an independent city-state – and a pretty wealthy one at that. Evidence of its former glory can still be seen today in the attractive buildings of the town, from the Baroque Town Hall to its 11th-century Romanesque cathedral.

Interestingly, Augsburg boasts the world’s oldest welfare housing, The Fuggerei. Built in 1516, these houses are still lived in to this day and remain very affordable. Today, Augsburg it’s a university town with many pubs and a welcoming pedestrianized zone.

13. Linderhof Palace

Situated in Schloss, southwest Bavaria, the Linderhof Palace is one of King Ludwig II of Bavaria’s crazy castle creations. It’s the smallest of the three royal palaces contrived by the ruler, and notably, the only one that Ludwig lived to see completed.

Modeled on Versailles, the Linderhof Palace features some extremely opulent Rococo style interiors, with an abundance of ornate carvings and gold leaf. It also features an intricate Moorish-style “Moroccan House,” as well as the man-made and very sparkling Venus Grotto. With its beautifully sculpted gardens – free to stroll around – its setting in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps provides a picturesque backdrop.

12. Wurzburg

The Main River slices through Würzburg, a town on the Romantic Road, giving it a charming riverside location. It’s a lovely place to explore, complete with a history of architecture and art, as well as some excellent wines.

The top sight in town is the Würzburg Residenz, a bold Baroque building – arguably, one of the most beautiful in Germany – complete with an iconic zig-zag staircase and home to the world’s largest fresco. There’s a lively student scene in town that makes it a fun place to stop off and enjoy local life in the intricacies of Würzburg’s cobbled streets.

11. Dinkelsbuhl

Dinkelsbühl was founded in the 8th century by Carolingian kings. Today, many Germans think of this town as Germany’s most beautiful, and it’s easy to see why. Set on the Romantic Road, most of Dinkelsbühl is made up of charming medieval houses painted in bright pastel colors that makes for something you’d see in a fairytale.

Wander the fortified walls, count the 18 towers, and be taken back in time. Every year, the townspeople celebrate their surrender to Sweden during the 17th-century 30 Years War; surrendering saved this beautiful spot from destruction.

10. Regensburg

Regensburg is located on the banks of the Danube and is famous for its very well preserved medieval heart. The icon of the city, however, is its stone bridge. This 12th-century structure straddles the river, with a whopping 16 arches making an impressive sight indeed.

Regensburg Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece with ornate spires and detailing dating back to the 13th century. There’s even a Roman-era city gate – the Porta Praetoria – built in 179 AD. The town is flanked by medieval towers, one of which is an imposing 50 meters tall. Needless to say, staying in Regensburg is like staying in a fantasy novel.

9. Lake Constance

Also known by its German name, Bodensee, Lake Constance is a glimmering turquoise alpine lake that borders Austria and Switzerland . The lake is fed by the Rhine River and is made up of two parts – the Untersee and the Obersee.

Best visited in the summer months, this 63-kilometer-long lake is edged by attractive resorts and campsites. There are also a few attractive cities, including Lindau, which is situated on an island full of medieval and half-timbered buildings

Swimming, sailing, and windsurfing, as well as hiking opportunities in the hills, make up the lake’s outdoor activities, while keen cyclists will enjoy the cycle path that encircles Lake Constance itself.

8. Franconian Switzerland

Franconian Switzerland is one of Germany’s oldest vacation destinations. The area was named by 19th-century poets and artists, who likened the sublime landscape in this part of Upper Franconia to that of Switzerland. The rest is history.

Located in a rural area, there are nevertheless many things to do. From boat trips along the River Wisent, exploring its thousands of caves and rock climbing, to discovering ruined castles and quaint villages, Franconian Switzerland also boasts the highest density of breweries in the world. This means every village in the area has at least one pub where you can enjoy a cold beer.

7. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is located in Southern Bavaria and is an incredibly charming place to explore. Formerly two towns – Garmisch on one side of the river, and Partenkirchen on the other – they were conjoined by the Nazi government in 1935 prior to the 1936 Winter Olympics, held in the newly composite town.

Not only famous for houses boasting wood carvings and the Italian-influenced Bavarian frescoes, Lüftlmalerei, this Garmisch-Partenkirchen is also located in the shadow of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain at 2,962 meters above sea level. Skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer – this alpine town has it all.

6. Chiemsee

Often dubbed “the Bavarian Sea,” Chiemsee is the largest lake in Bavaria and is a beautiful spot for a relaxing retreat on the water’s edge. The main resort town of Priena is a popular destination for wealthy Munichers, though there are several other towns to suit other types of travelers.

There is also a selection of islands to explore on the glassy waters of the lake, reachable by boat. One of these is Herrensel, where you’ll find one of King Ludwig’s castles – the Herrenchiemsee. Another palace influenced by Versailles, this 19th-century edifice was one of the most expensive buildings in Bavarian history. There’s also an Augustinian monastery located on Herrensel.

5. Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is an alpine town that features incredible views of the local icon – Watzmann. This is Germany’s third-highest mountain, creating a sublime backdrop to the town with its imposing 2,713 meters of granite. Other mountains flank the area, making Berchtesgaden beautiful beyond belief.

Hiking trails abound in the area during the summer, particularly around the nearby and very spectacular Konigssee. This is also where you’ll find a more unlikely sight – the Eagle’s Nest. A strangely dark tourist sight, the former mountain retreat of Hitler (who was afraid of heights) is now a restaurant and bar, complete with observatory platform.

Spread across seven hills at the point where the Regnez and Main Rivers meet, Bamberg is a very pretty Bavarian village. It boasts an Old Town that features a number of 11th-century buildings, such as Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral.

Because of its location on the two rivers, it’s been dubbed “Little Venice.” Here, you’ll find old fishermen’s houses that jostle for space along the waterfront. Amazingly, the old town hall of Bamberg is set on an island in the Regnez and is connected by two handsome stone arch bridges.

Famous for more than just Oktoberfest – taking place in the urban park of Englischer Garten – Munich is the Bavarian capital that bulges with bountiful beer halls and a beautiful old town to boot. The Altstadt is centered around the impressive Neo-Gothic Town Hall, with its iconic glockenspiel clock.

See also: Where to Stay in Munich

St Peter’s Church, dating from the 12th-century, seems to pierce the sky with its spire, while Frauenkirche Cathedral is alluring with its twin bell towers. When sightseeing in Munich has become too much, head to the historic Hofbrauhaus – a beerhouse dating back to 1589 – for steins of beer and a hearty feast.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most beautiful towns on the Romantic Road. Meaning “Red Fortress over the river Tauber,” this is the quintessential medieval Bavarian town, the type that comes from storybooks and sparks your imagination. It’s all timber buildings along delightful cobbled streets and a patchwork of pretty pastel colors.

One of the most famous things is the Rothenburg Christmas Market, held since the 15th century. Even with tourist crowds, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a beautiful place to explore. Staying here means you get the town to yourself as the daytrippers leave ; night brings the intriguing Nightwatchman’s Tour.

Thanks to its proximity to three castles, Füssen is one for all the castle enthusiasts out there. First of all, there’s Hohenschwangau, a handsomely ‘classic’ castle with turrets and towers, which is where King Ludwig II spent his childhood – possibly why he was so castle crazy.

There’s also Hohes Schloss, the late-Gothic castle with white walls and pretty red rooves. But the number one castle near Füssen is Neuschwanstein Castle; this is Ludwig II’s masterpiece. It’s so beautiful that even the Sleeping Beauty Castle of Walt Disney fame was directly inspired by it. Neuschwanstein is quite literally the stuff of fairytales.

Map of Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

16 Best Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

1 March 2024 · In: Bavaria , Germany , Travel

Are you looking for the  best places to visit in Bavaria ? You have come to the right place! This article walks you through the  16 most beautiful locations to add to your bucket list  for an unforgettable vacation, whether you are travelling as a couple, family with children or with friends.

Bavaria, a state in southeastern Germany, is a  stunning area with a lot to offer ! From spectacular Alpine peaks and fairytale castles piercing the sky to crystal-clear lakes and picturesque medieval towns, you will find  plenty of things to do and places to see  on a holiday full of surprises and hidden gems.

I enjoyed a  road trip across Bavaria and the German Alps  with my partner Matt, and we both absolutely loved it! The locals were always friendly and welcoming, the scenery was beautiful, and the cuisine was delicious. It was an  unforgettable experience ,   and I cannot wait to return one day. 

Whether you are drawn to the  architectural wonders of Munich , the  serene shores of Chiemsee  or the  fairytale allure of Neuschwanstein Castle , the region has something for everyone. 

So, are you ready to discover the  top 16 places in Bavaria that you must visit ? Let’s get started! And, of course, let me know in the comments below if you have any other suggestions ⛰️

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, please  read our full affiliate disclosure .

16- Lake Constance

Overview: 16 must-visit bavaria places.

1- Neuschwanstein Castle 2- Munich  3- Rothenburg ob der Tauber 4- Bamberg 5- Regensburg 6- Berchtesgaden National Park 7- Würzburg 8- Nuremberg

9- Garmisch-Partenkirchen 10- Passau 11- Augsburg 12- Dinkelsbühl 13- Linderhof Palace 14- Lake Chiemsee & Herrenchiemsee 15- Kelheim & Weltenburg Abbey  16- Lake Constance

Scenic places in Bavaria – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

16 best places to visit in Bavaria, Germany

Remember that this list is only a recommendation! You will find many other beautiful places and towns to explore in Bavaria, whether you are travelling for a short weekend getaway or a week-long vacation.

1- Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle, a  fairy-tale-like masterpiece  nestled in the Bavarian Alps near the town of Füssen, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bavaria. 

Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria and completed in 1886, the castle is renowned for its  romantic and picturesque design , resembling a medieval fortress with turrets and towers. 

Perched on a hill  overlooking the Hohenschwangau Valley , Neuschwanstein will seduce you with its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Its interior is also worth visiting (possible only as part of a guided tour), with  richly decorated rooms , including the opulent  Throne Room  and the  Hall of Singers . 

In addition, the enchanting appearance of the castle has made it an  iconic symbol of Bavaria , inspiring various  works of art  and even serving as the model for the  Sleeping Beauty Castle  of Disney. You guessed it, Neuschwanstein Castle is a stop you cannot miss. 

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES I RECOMMEND

2- munich .

Munich, the  capital of Bavaria  in southern Germany, is a city you should not miss, harmoniously combining  tradition and modernity .

Known for its  rich cultural heritage , Munich features iconic landmarks such as  Marienplatz , where the impressive  Neo-Gothic New Town Hall  is located. The city is also famous for its annual  Oktoberfest  celebration, beer gardens, including the famed  Hofbräuhaus  and traditional  Bavarian cuisine . 

In addition, the Bavarian capital is home to  world-class museums , including the  Alte Pinakothek  and the  Deutsches Museum , whilst the  English Garden  provides a peaceful retreat.

With a lively atmosphere, historic architecture and a strong emphasis on cultural events, Munich offers a delightful  blend of history, art and Bavarian charm . The ideal base to explore the region whether you are planning a short trip or a week-long getaway. 

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN MUNICH

• Wander around the Marienplatz
• Marvel at the Gothic architecture of the New Town Hall
• Explore English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world
• Discover the Nymphenburg Palace , a magnificent Baroque palace
• Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Viktualienmarkt
• Tour the Deutsches Museum, the largest museum of science and technology
• Experience the beer culture at the Hofbräuhaus, a historic beer hall
• Stop at the Alte Pinakothek , housing a collection of European paintings
• See the Olympiapark, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics
• Admire ancient Greek and Roman sculptures at the Glyptothek

3- Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a  picturesque medieval town  in Bavaria, renowned for its enchanting charm and exceptionally well-preserved historic architecture. 

Surrounded by  intact medieval city walls , the town features cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and charming squares. On your wander, do not miss its market square,  Marktplatz , a centrepiece adorned by the  Town Hall  and the  medieval clock tower . 

In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore landmarks such as  St. James’s Church , stroll along the well-preserved city walls and experience the magical atmosphere of this  outstanding medieval gem , often referred to as the  Jewel of the Middle Ages .

Rothenburg is the perfect town to explore on a city break or as a stop on your road trip, being part of the famous  Romantic Road route . 

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN ROTHENBURG

• Wander through the well-preserved Old Town
• Marvel at the picturesque Market Square (Marktplatz)
• Walk along the Town Wall for panoramic views
• Explore the impressive St. James’s Church
• Visit the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum
• Capture a classic Rothenburg photo at Plönlein
• Climb the stairs of Siebers Tower for scenic views
• Try the famous Schneeball pastries, a local delicacy
• Take an evening tour led by the Night Watchman
• If visiting during the holiday season, tour the Christmas Museum

Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a  charming town  in Bavaria  set on 7 hills , known for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval and baroque architecture. 

Situated on the banks of the Regnitz River, the Old Town of Bamberg features  winding cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, historic squares  and structures from the 11th to 19th centuries, including the frescoed  Altes Rathaus , located on an island.

The town is also home to many  picturesque bridges  and the stunning  Romanesque Bamberg Cathedral , which features 4 towers and multiple stone sculptures. 

Famous for its  unique layout and rich cultural heritage , Bamberg is often referred to as the  Franconian Rome  due to its 7 hills and architectural beauty. A city you should add to your  Bavaria bucket list . 

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN BAMBERG

• Explore the impressive Bamberg Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece
• Visit the iconic Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)
• Stroll through the charming Old Town
• Enjoy the scenic charm of Little Venice, a row of fishermen’s houses
• Tour the New Residence, an opulent palace with a rose garden
• Visit the Michaelsberg Abbey, an impressive complex
• Relax in the beautiful Rose Garden for a peaceful escape
• Experience the unique beer culture by sampling local brews
• Admire the architecture of the Obere Pfarre, a late-Gothic church
• visit the birthplace of E.T.A. Hoffmann, a German Romantic artist

5- Regensburg

Regensburg, located on the Danube River in Bavaria, is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its  well-preserved medieval architecture  and is another beautiful town you should visit. 

Its Old Town features a stunning collection of  Gothic and Romanesque structures , including the iconic 12th-century  Stone Bridge  and the 13th-century  Regensburg Cathedral , a twin-spired Gothic monument housing the Regensburger Domspatzen choir. 

With its  narrow cobbled streets, charming squares and a rich history  dating back to Roman times, Regensburg offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and lively atmosphere, making it one of the most  enchanting and historically significant cities  in Germany. 

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN REGENSBURG

• Explore the iconic Regensburg Cathedral
• Walk across the 12th-century Stone Bridge
• Stroll through the well-preserved Old Town
• Visit the Walhalla, a neoclassical hall of fame 
• Explore the historic Thurn und Taxis Palace
• Indulge in a meal at the Historical Wurstkuchl
• Learn more at the Regensburg Museum of History
• Admire the Gothic architecture of St. James’s Church
• Relax in Dörnbergpark, a green space along the Danube
• Take a boat trip on the Danube River

6- Berchtesgaden National Park

Berchtesgaden National Park, located in the Bavarian Alps of southern Germany, is a  stunning natural reserve  renowned for its alpine landscapes, pristine lakes and diverse ecosystems. 

Covering an area of more than 200 square miles, the park is characterised by  spectacular mountain peaks, lush forests and crystal-clear lakes , including the iconic Königssee. 

You will have the opportunity to explore  numerous hiking trails , witness  breathtaking panoramas  and encounter a  variety of wildlife , contributing to the status of the park as a  UNESCO Biosphere Reserve  to protect the landscapes of the Alps.

Nestled near the Austrian border, Berchtesgaden National Park offers a  serene and picturesque retreat , the perfect place to visit for all nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN BERCHTESGADEN

• Take a boat trip on the crystal-clear Königssee
• Ride the Jennerbahn cable car for panoramic views
• Wander the Watzmann massif, the third-highest mountain in Germany
• See the Eagle’s Nest, a mountaintop retreat built for Adolf Hitler
• Admire the picturesque St. Sebastian’s Church in Ramsau
• Hike through the Almbachklamm Gorge
• Visit Malerwinkel, offering postcard-worthy views
• Discover the numerous hiking trails within the park
• Learn more at the Obersalzberg Documentation Center
• Explore Hintersee on a small electric boat

7- Würzburg

Würzburg, located along the Main River, is a  charming city  and one of the best places to visit in Bavaria, known for its  rich history, sumptuous Baroque and Rocco architecture and wine culture . 

On your city break, take a tour of the  18th-century Würzburg Residence , a UNESCO World Heritage site and a  masterpiece of Baroque architecture , with ornate rooms, a huge fresco by the Venetian artist Tiepolo, a stunning staircase and extensive gardens. 

In addition, do not miss the  Old Main Bridge , the  Marienberg Fortress  and the  historic Old Town  with its medieval and Renaissance buildings which add to the charm of the city. 

And for all wine lovers out there, you have come to the right place! Home to countless wine bars, cellars and wineries, Würzburg is the  centre of the Franconian wine region , with its distinctive  bocksbeutel .

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN WÜRZBURG

• See the magnificent Würzburg Residence
• Visit Marienberg Fortress, perched on a hill
• Walk across the Old Main Bridge
• Admire the architecture of St. Kilian’s Cathedral
• Relax in Residenzplatz, a charming square
• Explore the Treasury of the Würzburg Cathedral
• Discover Julius Spital, one of the oldest wineries in Germany
• Rub the brass statue of St. Nepomuk on the Old Main Bridge 
• Wander the vibrant Market Square
• Take a trip into the nearby Franconian wine country

8- Nuremberg

Nuremberg, located in the Franconia region of Bavaria, is a  city steeped in history , known for its medieval architecture, cultural significance and role in the Holy Roman Empire. 

Take time to wander through its  well-preserved Old Town , surrounded by medieval walls, and stop by significant landmarks such as the  Imperial Castle  and the iconic  Nuremberg Castle , which offers panoramic views of the city.

The city also played a crucial role during the Nazi era, and the  Documentation Center and Nazi Party Rally Grounds , located in the courtroom where the post-World War II trials took place, provide insights into this dark period.

Today, Nuremberg is a vibrant city with a mix of  historic charm, cultural attractions and a lively atmosphere . It is one of the best places to visit in Bavaria, even on a short weekend getaway. 

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN NUREMBERG

• Discover the historic Nuremberg Castle
• Wander through the charming Old Town
• Gain insights at the Nuremberg Trials Documentation Center
• Explore the Nazi Party Rally Grounds
• Admire the Gothic architecture of St. Lorenz Church
• Visit the Germanisches Nationalmuseum
• Cross the picturesque Hangman’s Bridge
• Tour the Tiergarten Nürnberg, one of the oldest zoos in the world
• See the former residence of artist Albrecht Dürer
• Relax in Luitpoldhain Park, a spacious green area

9- Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen, nestled in the Bavarian Alps near the border with Austria, is a picturesque resort town known for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities. 

Formed by the merger of two neighbouring towns for the 1936 Winter Olympics, Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers a charming blend of traditional Bavarian architecture, bustling markets and a vibrant cultural scene. 

In addition, the town serves as a gateway to the Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany accessible by cogwheel train and cable car, attracting visitors with its ski resorts, hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, cultural exploration or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, Garmisch-Partenkirchen has something to offer every adventurer!

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN

• Take a cable car or cogwheel train to the summit of Zugspitze
• Hike through the stunning Partnach Gorge
• Visit Eibsee, a picturesque mountain lake
• Explore Ludwigstrasse, the historic street in Garmisch
• Discover the Olympic Ski Stadium, used for the 1936 Winter Olympics
• Wander through the charming Garmisch-Partenkirchen Old Town
• Hike or take the cable car to the summit of Wank Mountain
• Experience the dramatic Höllental Gorge
• Enjoy an exhilarating ride on the Alpine Coaster
• Admire the views from the AlpspiX viewing platform

10- Passau 

Passau, located at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers in Bavaria, is a  charming city  known for its  picturesque location, historic architecture and cultural richness . 

Often nicknamed the  City of Three Rivers  or the  Bavarian Venice  due to its  scenic waterways and bridges , the city is overlooked by the  Veste Oberhaus , a 13th-century hilltop fortress housing a city museum and observation tower.

Its Old Town is also adorned with  colourful baroque buildings , medieval streets and significant monuments such as  St. Stephen’s Cathedral , featuring distinctive onion-domed towers and housing the  largest cathedral organ  in the world with 17,974 pipes.

With its unique setting on the 3 rivers, Passau offers a delightful blend of  natural beauty, cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere . It is another Bavarian city you should add to your list of places to visit.

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN PASSAU

• Explore the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Visit Veste Oberhaus, a medieval fortress overlooking the city
• Witness the unique confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers 
• Admire the Gothic architecture of the Town Hall
• Discover the artistry of glassmaking at the Passau Glass Museum
• Explore the Shipping Museum, housed in a former granary
• Visit the Mariahilf Monastery, situated on the Inn River
• Marvel at the elegant St. Michael’s Church
• Take a scenic boat cruise along the Danube or Inn rivers

11- Augsburg

Augsburg, another place worth visiting, is a  historic city with a rich cultural heritage  dating back to Roman times, offering a variety of experiences to all travellers.

Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, the city features landmarks such as the  Augsburg Cathedral , the  Town Hall  with its  Golden Hall , and the  Fuggerei , the oldest social housing complex in the world.

As a prominent centre of trade and commerce in the Middle Ages, Augsburg played a  crucial role in European history . Today, it combines its  historical charm with a vibrant cultural scene , museums and modern amenities, making it the ideal destination for a Bavarian escape.

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN AUGSBURG

• See Augsburg Cathedral, a Romanesque and Gothic masterpiece
• Visit the Town Hall, featuring the famous Golden Hall
• Discover Fuggerei, the world’s oldest social housing complex
• Enjoy a performance at the Augsburg Puppet Theater
• Explore the Maximilian Museum, housed in a former monastery
• Have fun at the Augsburg Zoo, home to a diverse number of animals 
• Wander through Weißgerbergasse, a lovely street in the Old Town
• Admire the baroque architecture of St. Anne’s Church
• Relax in the Botanical Garden, showcasing plants and themed gardens
• Take a stroll along the picturesque Lechkanal

12- Dinkelsbühl

Dinkelsbühl is a  captivating medieval town  and one of the best places to visit in Bavaria. With its well-preserved timber-framed buildings, cobbled streets and fortified walls, it exudes a  picturesque and magical atmosphere . 

Its  historic Old Town  is adorned with colourful facades, and you will also come across landmarks like the  St. George’s Minster  and the  Rothenburger Gate , which demonstrate the rich architectural heritage of the area. 

Renowned for its  tranquillity and medieval charac ter as a former free imperial city of the Holy Roman Empire, Dinkelsbühl takes you back in time, providing an  authentic and fascinating experience  of the medieval past of Germany.

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN DINKELSBÜHL

• Explore the stunning St. George’s Minster
• Wander around Weinmarkt Square in the Old Town
• See the well-preserved Rothenburger Gate
• Tour the Museum of the 3rd Dimension
• Take a walk along the well-preserved city walls
• Visit Deutsches Haus, a historic building
• Admire the Renaissance-era Kügelgraben Fountain
• If visiting in July, experience the Kinderzeche Festival
• Marvel at Kreuztor, a well-preserved medieval gate

13- Linderhof Palace

Linderhof Palace , located in southwest Bavaria, is one of the  opulent royal residences of King Ludwig II . Constructed in the 19th century, the palace reflects a combination of  French Rococo and Bavarian influences . 

Surrounded by beautifully  landscaped gardens, fountains and terraces , Linderhof is the smallest of the castles of Ludwig but showcases  exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail . 

I recommend  booking a guided tour  (the only way to get inside) to discover its remarkable features, including the  Hall of Mirrors , the  Moorish Kiosk  and the  stunning gardens  inspired by Versailles. 

Linderhof Palace is  one of the best attractions  to visit to get another perspective on the region, offering you a glimpse into the  extravagant lifestyle of the  Fairy Tale King   of Bavaria.

14- Lake Chiemsee & Herrenchiemsee

Chiemsee, often referred to as the  Bavarian Sea , is the  largest lake in Bavaria . Nestled amid picturesque landscapes, it is surrounded by  rolling hills, charming villages and the majestic Alps  in the background. 

The lake is also renowned for its  crystal-clear waters  and is dotted with  several islands , including the remarkable  Herrenchiemsee , where King Ludwig II built a palace inspired by the Palace of Versailles. 

Lake Chiemsee is the perfect place to visit for its  serene ambience mixed with plenty of outdoor activities , which feature a range of attractions and experiences, making it an ideal destination for  nature lovers  and those seeking  cultural and historical sites .

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE AROUND LAKE CHIEMSEE

• Explore Herrenchiemsee Palace, located on an island
• Visit Fraueninsel, another island on Chiemsee
• Take a boat cruise on Chiemsee to enjoy the scenic views 
• Hike or mountain bike in the Chiemgau Alps 
• Cycle along the picturesque Chiemsee Cycle Path
• Discover the nearby Kochelsee-Tegernsee Nature Park
• Wander through the gardens surrounding Herrenchiemsee 
• Relax on the shores of Chiemsee at one of the beaches
• Experience the nostalgia of the Chiemsee Steam Railway
• Hike or take a cable car to the summit of Kampenwand

15- Kelheim & Weltenburg Abbey 

Kelheim is a  picturesque town  located at the confluence of the Danube and Altmühl rivers. Known for its rich history and charming landscapes, it offers you a perfect blend of  cultural attractions and natural beauty . 

The town is home to the impressive  Befreiungshalle  (Liberation Hall), a neoclassical monument overlooking the Danube, built to commemorate the victories against Napoleon. 

In addition, the surrounding  Altmühltal Nature Park  provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, making Kelheim a destination that ideally combines  historical charm with scenic surroundings .

Finally, you will find nearby  Weltenburg Abbey , one of the  oldest   monastic breweries in the world . Founded in 620 AD, it is home to a Baroque church dedicated to Saint George, decorated with intricate stuccoes and frescoes. 

The abbey is also  renowned for its beer , particularly the Weltenburger Kloster Barock Dunkel, brewed on-site and often enjoyed by travellers in its  welcoming beer garden overlooking the Danube Gorge .

Lake Constance, known as Bodensee in German, is a  large freshwater lake  situated at the northern foot of the Alps, bordered by Germany, Austria and Switzerland. 

It is  one of the largest lakes in Central Europe  and is renowned for its stunning scenery, charming lakeside towns and cultural attractions. 

The lake offers a  wealth of recreational activities , from sailing and swimming in the summer to hiking and cycling along its shores. The ideal Bavarian destination to escape from everyday life!

You will also have the opportunity to  explore historic cities  like Konstanz, Lindau and Bregenz, and enjoy the diverse landscapes that include  vineyards, orchards and the backdrop of the Swiss and Austrian Alps .

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE AROUND LAKE CONSTANCE

• Explore Mainau Island, known as the  Flower Island
• Visit the historic city of Konstanz
• Discover the Austrian town of Bregenz
• Take a day trip to the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe
• Explore Lindau, a picturesque island town
• Visit Friedrichshafen, home to the Zeppelin & the Dornier Museum
• Wander through the medieval town of Meersburg
• Learn about prehistoric lake dwellings at the Pfahlbauten Museum
• Explore the Island of Reichenau, a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Enjoy the many cycling and hiking trails around the lake

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How to reduce your eco-impact in Bavaria

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Being a responsible traveller in Bavaria is possible! Here are some  eco-friendly travel tips  for reducing your carbon footprint:

• Use the train or coach to reach the area . Bavaria is well-connected by train to the rest of Germany, Europe and the world, so prioritise travelling this way to lower your carbon impact.
• If you need to take the plane, book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green holiday. 
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . Choose hotels, guesthouses or Airbnb accommodations that prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly practices. It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious policies, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.
• Be mindful of your energy and water consumption . Turn off lights, electronics and heating/cooling when you do not need it. Reuse towels and linens at your hotel or guesthouse to reduce your usage and impact.
• Once there, use public transport . Bavaria has an efficient public transportation network with buses and trains that can take you everywhere. And if you prefer to move freely or reach a more remote area,  rent an electric or hybrid car . Finally, for the most courageous, you can  travel around by walking or cycling , a great green way to enjoy the sights whilst reducing your environmental impact.
• Eat at local restaurants or markets  that use produce from the region and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Respect flora and fauna . If you are exploring the natural areas of Bavaria, such as Berchtesgaden or Garmisch-Partenkirchen, follow designated trails and respect the local flora and fauna. Avoid disturbing, touching and feeding wildlife.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and learn a few German words.

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Bavaria travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your vacation in Bavaria stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Bavaria (which ranks among some of the best tap water in Europe). However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Bavaria is easy and a great way to explore this beautiful region freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Bavaria is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable hostels to luxury resorts.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Most beautiful places in Bavaria – FAQ

Yes, Bavaria is a fantastic destination for a holiday. Whether you are interested in history, nature, outdoor activities or cultural experiences, the region offers a diverse range of attractions for all ages, making it an excellent choice for your vacation.

The best town to stay in Bavaria depends on your preferences, interests and what you are seeking. Each offers a unique experience, contributing to the overall charm of the region, particularly in Munich, Nuremberg or Rothenburg ob der Taube.

The best time to visit Bavaria depends on your preferences and the type of activities you plan to do. Spring brings milder temperatures, blooming flowers and green landscapes. Summer is the peak tourist season, offering warm temperatures and longer days. Early autumn is still pleasant, with lingering warmth and fewer crowds. And winter has a magical atmosphere, especially in the Alpine regions with snowy landscapes.

Although having a car can provide more flexibility and allow you to explore remote areas, it is not strictly necessary to travel around Bavaria. The region has an efficient and well-connected public transport system including trains, buses and boats, making it possible to explore many attractions without a car.

And you, which is your favourite place to visit in Bavaria? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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Your Trip to Munich: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Munich International Airport Guide

Best Munich Hotels

Public Transportation

Day Trips From Munich

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Top Museums in Munich

Munich's English Garden

Complete Guide to Oktoberfest

Top Restaurants in Munich

Best Beer Halls

Top Beer Gardens

Guide to Munich's Hofbräuhaus

The Best Cities to Visit in Bavaria: Munich and Nuremberg

 TripSavvy /  Evan Polenghi

Bavaria forms the second-largest land (or state) within Germany , and nearly 13 million people live in this region. The capital is Munich, but Nuremberg is also a popular city in Bavaria with its own airport and attractions.

Fortunately, Bavaria is well connected by train, and some routes are even quicker by train than car, such as the trip from Munich to Nuremberg. Additionally, the bus network in Germany now has services for budget travelers, which makes getting around the region relatively simple and affordable.

Bavaria is a great place to explore . It's dense with things to do, from trekking to the famous castles to visiting the compelling city of  Munich  and the somber remains of  Dachau . However, when it comes to deciding where to stay, the two best cities in Bavaria are Munich and Nuremberg.

When many people think of classic German style and culture, the city of Munich comes to mind. This quintessentially German town is home to numerous Old World traditions, customs, and fashions including lederhosen, weighty pork dishes, biergartens, and marvelous architecture. With plenty of places to eat, dance, explore, and stay, Munich is the ideal city for visitors of Bavaria.

Things to Do in Munich

• English Garden : One of the biggest city parks in Europe, the English Garden is a great place for an afternoon picnic.
• Oktoberfest : This annual event celebrates the rich history of beer in Germany. However, even if you're not in town for the festival, you can drink classic Germany beers from a huge one-liter  maß  in Munich's famous Bavarian beer halls.
• Marien Square (Marienplatz): The New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)'s decorated façade towers over this central square in the heart of Munich, where you can hear the famous Glockenspiel (clock) chime every day at 11 a.m., noon, and 5 p.m. from March through October.
• Residence Palace of Munich: While this famous landmark was once the home of German royalty, it is now a public park and museum dedicated to the history of Germany's monarchy.
• Eisbach Canal: The birthplace of the unusual sport of river surfing, this canal along the perimeter of the English Garden is a great place to watch local daredevils ride the waves.

If you make Munich your base from which to see Bavaria and don't have a car or rail pass, you can take tours like those offered at Viator to see Neuschwanstein castle, the Eagle's Nest, or even get tickets to Oktoberfest.

• Oberammergau  is famous for its passion play, but for shoppers, it's the place to buy wood carvings. Winter sports are big here, as well as at nearby spa town Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
• Fussen , the highest town in Bavaria, is the closest town with a railway station to the tourist must-see castles of  Neuschwanstein  and  Hohenschwangau . You can get a bus to the castles. Fussen is but three miles from the Austrian border and an interesting place to spend a night.
• The Eagle's Nest was Hitler's personal hideaway and exactly what you'd expect of such a man.
• Salzburg  - The hills are alive, with the sound of music! Check out the city that inspired the famous musical.
• Nuremberg  is a beautiful city, notorious for its involvement with the rise of Nazism.
• Regensburg  - Explore a Medieval City.
• Dachau Concentration Camp   is Germany's most notorious WWII death camp.

Where to Go Next From Munich

• North to Nuremberg  - If you don't feel like doing a day trip to Nuremberg, visit it for a night before continuing your journey in Germany or the Czech Republic.
• Northeast to Prague  - Visit  one of the cheapest cities in Europe , though this is actually easier from Nuremberg.
• East to Salzburg and Vienna  - Salzburg is an easy day trip from Munich, but you can also treat it as a stepping stone to Vienna.
• Northwest to Frankfurt  - Though there isn't much to see in Frankfurt, it's a popular transport hub so you might  need  to go. The Romantic Road is a great way to get there.
• South to Venice  - Cross Austria into Italy and head down to Venice, or further to Rome.

Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria, located 105 miles northwest of Munich—and should not be confused with the  Nurbürgring , the world's most notorious race track. Two hours from Munich by car, but just one hour by high-speed train, Nuremberg sits somewhere between a "day trip from Munich" and a destination in its own right. There is a very attractive medieval walled old city and a very famous Christmas market ( Christkindlesmarkt ) . It is a fine, compact city for walking and a good place to stay a few days.

Things to Do in Nuremberg

• Nazi Party Rally Grounds:  You can visit the grounds, and then go to the museum. The Documentation Centre Nazi Party Rally Grounds is located in the north wing of the Congress Hall, a building planned by the National Socialists to hold 50,000 people but never completed.
• Albrecht Dürer House: Exhibits devoted to Dürer's life and works. You'll see original etchings and woodcuts and copies of Dürer's paintings inside.
• Kaiserburg (The Nuremberg Castle): - Looming over the Dürer House, from 1050 to 1571 it was the official residence of the German kings and emperors, including Frederick Barbarossa, King of Germany in 1152, crowned emperor in 1154.
• Historic Art Shelter   (Kunstbunker): - At the start of the second world war, prudent officials transformed some former beer cellars in the flanks of the castle hill into a secure and quite technological art shelter. German tours are at 3 pm and other languages are by appointment.

Day Trips From Nuremberg

Bayreuth is the capital of Upper Franconia. A typical Bavarian market town with the town hall smack in the middle, Bayreuth is perhaps best known as the residence of Richard Wagner, who moved to the city in 1872 and stayed until his death in 1883. Margrave's Opera house is considered to be one of the finest Baroque halls of Europe. The Bayreuth Festival is a yearly celebration of Wagner's works that take place in the  Bayreuth Festspielhaus.  Tickets are difficult to procure. A tour may be your best way to see the festival.

Smaller Cities in Bavaria 

• Wurzburg  is a vibrant university town surrounded by vineyards with many architectural splendors.
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber  is everyone's favorite  Romantic Road  destination, and Germany's best-preserved walled town, according to Rick Steves. Medieval torture aficionados will enjoy the Medieval Crime and Punishment Museum.
• Dinkelsbuhl  is smack in the center of the Romantic Road. It's a good shopping town with lots of artists' studios, half-timbered houses, all wrapped in a medieval wall. In fact, you can patrol that wall, er, defensive perimeter, with the night watchman. 
• Augsburg  has a rich history dating back to the Roman empire. Dubbed both "The Renaissance City" and "Mozart City", it has been an important center of trade down through the ages. During the Renaissance, Augsburg was a main cultural center which is reflected in the fine Rococo architecture in the city.
• Regensburg  is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Bavarian Jazz Festival takes place here in summer, usually in July.
• Passau  is a university town in a beautiful setting at the junction of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers. In antiquity, Passau was an ancient Roman colony and became the largest diocese of the Holy Roman Empire. Later, it became known for its sword manufacturing. The organ in St. Stephens Cathedral has 17,774 pipes.
• Altotting  is famous for the  Gnadenkapelle  (Chapel of the Miraculous Image), of one of the most visited shrines in Germany. The heart of King Ludwig II of Neuschwanstein fame is here in an urn. You don't want to miss that.

How to Visit Munich on a Budget

Best Medieval Cities to Visit in Bavaria

Regensburg: Planning Your Trip

The Top Places to Visit in the South of Germany

The Top 23 Things to Do in Munich

The 15 Best Things to Do in Nuremberg, Germany

Top 10 Things to Do in Bavaria, Germany

How to Get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber

How to Travel From Frankfurt to Munich by Plane, Train, Bus, or Car

Best Underrated Cities in Germany

Berchtesgaden: Planning Your Trip

Most Romantic Locations in Germany

Your Trip to Nuremberg: The Complete Guide

The 7 Best Day Trips From Nuremberg, Germany

48 Hours in Nuremberg: The Ultimate Itinerary

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The Perfect 10 Day Itinerary for Bavaria Germany

To me, just the word “Bavaria” conjures blissy visions. I dream of half-timbered houses clad in flowers, onion domed Baroque churches, and majestic castles piercing blue skies.

Ahhhh. I was incredibly excited for my solo road trip through southern Germany. And, I have to say, my blissful cliched thoughts were realized.

Bavaria is a large swath of southern Germany. Its big city is Munich, the “city of art and beer.”

There are storybook towns dotted around the countryside like Nuremberg, Wurzburg, Fussen, and the adorable Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Most Bavarian itineraries I’ve seen focus solely on southern Bavaria. Some even include Salzburg. While incredibly lovely, Salzburg is decidedly not in Bavaria.

My 10 days in Bavaria itinerary transports you to both southern and northern Bavaria, for the perfect German road trip. I recommend having 3 bases: Munich , Fussen, and Nuremberg .

Munich and Fussen will cover the south and you’ll experience a big city and small medieval town.

Beautiful Nuremberg is the unofficial capital of northern Bavaria and a perfect base for day trips. It’s now my favorite small city.

Mini History of Bavaria

But before we begin our 10 day Bavaria itinerary, a short history of Bavaria is in order.

Bavaria is a creation of the Wittelsbach dynasty. The family ruled over the state of Bavaria for 800 years. The Wittelsbach preferred fine art and grandiose castles to war.

For a brief period, in the 19th century, Bavaria was elevated to the rank of a kingdom. Bavaria became a monarchy. It was ruled by a succession of kings.

Max Joseph I was the first king. He expanded Bavaria, adding chunks of Franconia in the north.

His son, Ludwig I wanted to turn Munich into the “new Athens.” He envisioned the city as a sort of Renaissance revival of science, arts, and literature. He built the beautiful Hohenschwangau Castle.

By far the most famous Bavarian king was Ludwig II . Ludwig came to the throne at just 19 in 1864. He reigned until his mysterious death in 1886.

Ludwig was a famous royal personality in 19th century Europe. He was variously known as the Swan King, the Dream King, the Night King, the Moon King, and the Fairytale King.

Ludwig was tall, handsome, wildly eccentric, and a brooding romantic. He was the ultimate introvert. And just so … impractical. That was part of his charm and enduring mystique. 

Ludwig was the patron of the great Austrian musician Wagner. He was built outrageously expensive fantasy castles in the Alps. The castles reflect his love of romance, opera, and the make believe.

After Ludwig’s death, Kaiser Wilhelm II took the reins of command. He was a happy militarist. But, after protests in Germany, he was forced to abdicate in 1918. That was the end of the Bavarian monarchy.

To this day, though, there is a cult for Made King Ludwig II. Each year millions of tourists now come to see Ludwig’s castles. His famous one is Neuschwanstein. It was his vision of a medieval knight’s castle.

Snapshot Of 10 Days in Bavaria Itinerary

Here’s a quick glance of what you’ll do with 10 days in Bavaria.

• Day 1 : Explore Munich
• Day 2 : Munich or Day Trip to Salzburg
• Day 3 : Fussen & Neuschwanstein Castle
• Day 4 : Linderhof Palace & Ettal Abbey
• Day 5 : Visit Augsburg En Route To Nuremburg
• Day 6 : Explore Nuremberg
• Day 7 : Day Trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Day 8 : Day Trip to Bamberg
• Day 9 : Day Trip to Wurzburg
• Day 10 : Stop In Regensburg En Route Back To Munich

10 Days in Bavaria Itinerary

Day 1: Munich

On day 1, arrive in Munich and get settled. Then, head straight to the Marienplatz.

Click  here  if you want to book a 2 hour guided walking tour of the historic center to get oriented.

This is Munich’s main square, along with Max-Joseph Platz and Odeonsplatz. Here’s where you’ll find Munich’s eye popping grand buildings, though many have been restored to their former glory.

If you want the best panoramic view, climb the tower of St. Peter’s Church. You’ll get an eyeful of the majestic Neues Rathaus , or City Hall.

Be forewarned, the tower is a steep cramped experience and gets extremely claustrophobic at the top. You need to be physically fit.

If not, take the elevator in the Rathouse itself. To get a ticket, go into the Tourist Information Center in the Rathaus and ask for a ticket to see the Rathausturm (or the City Hall Tower). You access the elevator through the passageway that leads to the inner courtyard.

For fans of Mad King Ludwig and his iconic Bavarian castles, a visit to St. Michael’s Church is a must, where you can find his crypt and honor his memory.

Afterward, for a delightful lunch experience, head to Munich’s Victualienmarkt.

This vibrant outdoor food market is known for its array of colorful produce, an assortment of quick bites, and a lively beer garden, making it a perfect spot for a midday meal in a bustling atmosphere. You can even book a walking tour that includes the market .

For dinner, if you want classic German food, try Bratwurstherzl Restaurant . Or book a classic beer and food tour .

If you don’t fancy bratwurst or schnitzel, Munich has a plethora of Italian restaurants. I really liked Limoni , in a trendy neighborhood on Amalienstraße, and Guido al Duomo . You’ll need reservations for both these options.

Day 2: Munich or Salzburg

You shouldn’t spend just one day in Munich . Unless you’re really pressed for time. Today, either spend another day in Munich.

Or day trip to Salzburg. Salzburg is only 1.5 hours from Munich. So, it’s totally doable as a day trip.

1. Munich Option

Munich residenz.

If you opt for Munich, begin your day at the Munich Residence . The Residenz is a top attraction.

The Residenz was the luxe city palace and seat of government of the Wittelsbach dynasty. They were the family that ruled as kings of Bavaria until 1918.

The Residenz is a hodgepodge mix of architectural styles — Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Neo-Classicism. But that’s befitting a palace that lorded over Bavaria for over 700 years.

Inside, the Residenz Museum consists of over 120 rooms. The palace is awash in tapestries, swirly Rococo gilt, quirky reliquaries, and shell grottos. In fact, the palace has so many tapestries, you might give up admiring them out of sheer visual overstimulation.

It’s a big place and cou;d take awhile to visit, especially if you use the long winded audio guide. Grab a museum floor plan when you get there.

You can’t purchase tickets online, but there won’t be a huge queue, unless its high season.

Nymphenburg Palace

In the afternoon, you have a choice. Head out to the beautiful Nymphenburg Palace . The opulent palace is just 30 minutes outside the city center. It’s another enticing Wittlesbach architectural wonder.

The palace is divine. At Nymphenburg, swans glide, nymphs dance on Rococo ceilings, and thematic follies dot the lavish park.

Nymphenburg Palace is German Rococo at its best. You can get off the beaten Marienplatz and take a royal stroll in a beautiful oasis outside the city.

The 17th century Schloss is one of Europe’s best and most beautiful palaces . The grand and lavish palace has witnessed history — a 7 year old Mozart concert, an aged King Ludwig cavorting with femme fatale Lola Montez, and the birth of Mad King Ludwig II .

Click here for to book a guided tour of the palace.

Munich Museums

Alternatively, if you love art more than palace’s you can hit the museums. Munich has some absolutely world class museums.

Its most touted museum is the Alto Pinakothek . There, you’ll find a couple rare da Vinci paintings, Albrecht Durer’s mysterious Self Portrait , and other old master treasures.

It’s Bavaria’s best museum, with a collection of European masters from the 14th to 19th century. Click  here  to book a 2 hour tour of the pinakothek.

I also liked the Pinakothek der Moderne for modern art. It has cutting edge modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries.

The building itself is worth a visit, with a towering glass rotunda designed by the German architect Stephan Brauenfels.

Munich also has a hip new museum, the  Lenbachhaus , that you should really make time for. The stunning gold museum has a soaring atrium which glitters with a whirl of colored glass and steel.

The new three story wing, designed by Norman Foster, houses an incredible collection of Expressionist works, including pieces by Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc, and Paul Klee.

2. Salzburg Option:

If big cities aren’t your jam, this is your chance to day trip to Salzburg . It’s an idyllic Baroque city perched on the Salzach River.

To get your oriented, you may want to start out with a guided walking tour with a historian .

Salzburg is just a little over 90 minutes from Munich. And it’s the stuff of fairytales, with graceful domes and spires and a commanding hilltop fortress.

In Salzburg, you can dance through the Mirabell Palace Gardens on a Sound of Music tour . Or, hike up to mighty Hohensalzburg Castle on Festungsberg Hill

You can even visit Mozart’s birthplace. And there’s nothing better than wandering aimlessly through Salzburg’s pretty squares.

If you want a dose of culture, head to the DomQuartier Museum . It’s a complex of five smaller museums, and the Resident Palace is simply beautiful.

Day 3: Fussen & Neuschwanstein Castle

Day 3 of your Bavaria itinerary is castle day.

Get up early and drive to Fussen, which will be your base for two nights. Tiny Fussen is an enchanting medieval town nestled in the Bavarian mountains.

It’s a old cultural capital Europe. It simply couldn’t be more picturesque with its pastel houses and frescoed buildings.

As a former center of violin making, Fussen has a violin and lute museum you can visit. Beautiful Baroque St. Mang’s Abbey houses Germany’s oldest fresco.

And right next to the abbey is the High Castle, one of Barvaria’s largest and best preserved Gothic castle complexes.

2. Neuschwanstein Castle

From Fussen, you can walk or drive to some of Mad King Ludwig’s castles — Neuschwanstein, Hohenschangau, and Linderhof.

If you stay in Munich instead to day trip to the castles, you’ll likely have a very long and exhausting day. Although it can definitely be done. And I’ve done it before.

If you’ve done your research, you’ll have online reservations for Hohenschwangau Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle . Then you won’t have to wait in line at the ticket center in Schwangau to (hopefully) purchase a ticket.

With your reservation, you stay to the right and exchange your reservation for a ticket. It’s a much shorter line than the one for people vying for last minute tickets, some of whom will be disappointed.

Click  here  to book a day tour of Neuschwanstein from Munich.

If you are very ambitious, add in Linderhof Palace either on your own or on a  guided tour  with Neuschwanstein. It’s 50 minutes from Neuschwanstein.

3. Hohenschwangau Castle

Not everyone sees Hohenschwangau Castle. You can opt only to see Neuschwanstein. But I thought it completely worthwhile to see both and bought a combo ticket.

Hohenschwangau was where Mad King Ludwig grew up and became a poet-architect-opera lover. It’s not as glamorous as Neuschwanstein, to be sure, but still very charming and of great historical interest.

Driving from Munich toward Schwangau/Fussen, I had a reservation for 12:55 pm at Hohenschwangau and 3:35 at Neuschwanstein.

You’re supposed to arrive 90 minutes early to collect your ticket. The Germans are punctual, so don’t be late or you’ll lose your spot and be barred from entry.

The tickets give you a time gap between the two castles because it’s a 40+ minute hike up to Neuschwanstein. If you arrive at Neuschwanstein with time to spare, head to the Marienbrucke, or Mary’s Bridge, for the postcard view of the castle.

The Museum of the Bavarian Kings is also in the town of Schwangau. There’s not enough time to visit the museum between your designated castle time slots.

But if you arrive in Schwangau early, you could spend a half hour (or more) there. That’s what I did, and the museum provided a good primer on the history of the Wittelsbach dynasty.

After visiting the castles, you overnight in Fussen. If you want an intimate dining experience, pre-book at Michelin restaurant Gams & Gloria . If it’s a cold chilly day and you want some comfort food, try Ristorante Pizzeria Michelangelo .

Day 4: Linderhof Palace & Ettal Abbey

On day 4 of your 10 days in Bavaria itinerary, you’re off to another Mad King Ludwig castle. Linderhof Palace is decidedly fancier, inside, than Neuschwanstein.

Ludwig sought to emulate Louis XIV’s palace at Versailles. As a result, you’ll feel encased in gold inside.

Don’t forget to explore outside. The gardens and grounds are filled with architectural follies. Be sure to see at least the Venus Grotto and the Moorish Kiosk.

Click here to book a guided day tour of Linderhof from Munich.

Ettal Abbey is right down the road. You can’t miss the giant green dome emerge between the mountains.

The highlight of the abbey is the sugary Rococo basilica. The church houses the monks’ prized possession — a marble Madonna brought from Rome by Ludwig der Bayer in 1330. 

The grand Baroque abbey was a seat of resistance during WWII. Priests were forced to remain there so he wouldn’t spread anti-Nazi rhetoric.

And theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer – who would later be killed for his role in the resistance against Hitler – spent time at the abbey.

Day 5: Visit Augsburg En Route To Nuremberg

Today, you’ll drive from Fussen to your next base, Nuremberg. You’ll stay therefor the duration of your trip. For me, Nuremberg was the perfect base for northern Bavaria.

Nuremberg is a small city and entirely walkable. But it has a cosmopolitan vibe. And plenty of great restaurants to come home to after a day of sightseeing.

En route to Nuremberg, stop in Augsburg to break up your drive. It’s one of Germany’s oldest and most underrated cities.

There, you can check out the cathedral, the swanky town hall with its “golden hall,” and the 500 year old ivy covered neighborhood of Fuggerei. Augsburg Cathedral has Romanesque and Gothic elements and boasts paintings by Hans Holbein.

If you have time, and depending on when you want to arrive in Nuremberg, take in Augsburg’s Schaezlerpalais.

The palace’s art collections includes Albrecht Dürer’s famous portrait of Jakob Fugger. The real stunner is the ballroom, a masterpiece of Rococo architecture.

As an alternative to Augsburg, you could pull into Erlanger, just 30 minutes outside Nuremberg.

Erlanger is a serious foodie town with a craft beer tradition and medieval center. For a meal, I recommend Mein Lieber Schwan or Slaz and Pfeffer.

Day 6: Visit Nuremberg

Rest up and spend a leisurely day strolling in Nuremberg. Though there’s so much to do you could easily spend 2-3 days there, being happily medievalized in the former imperial city.

Kick things off with a guided walking tour of the historic center .

Then, visit Kaiserberg Castle a former imperial castle dating from the 13th century. Be sure to go inside the castle museum to learn about the history of Nuremberg.

Stroll down the drop dead gorgeous Weissgerbergasse Street, or Tanner’s Lane. It’s the most quaint half-timbered street in Nuremberg (and maybe all of Germany).

Head to the lively Hauptmarkt Square. Find the magic ring at the Beautiful Fountain.

Indulge in Nuremberg’s specialty, “Drei im Weckla,” a triple helping of bratwurst links. Visit St. Sebaldus and St. Lorenz churches.

Then sample one of Nuremberg’s museums. I loved the Albrecht Dürer House.

Nuremberg’s native Durer is perhaps the greatest German painter in history. And his house is one of the few remaining medieval half timbers that survived WWII.

You won’t see any authentic Durer paintings there. But it’s a unique snapshot of his life and his studio.

I can also recommend the Germany National Museum (for history and culture buffs) and the Neue Museum (for fans of contemporary art, with a large Gerhard Richter collection).

Larger than the Roman coliseum, Congress Hall was where the Nazis held party rallies. It houses the Documentation Center in its north wing.

This intense museums shines a light on the insane megalomania of the Nazi party. You can also see Courtroom 600, where the Allies conducted the Nuremberg Trials (if court isn’t in session).

Day 7: Day Trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber

On day 7, you’ll head to the picture perfect Rothenburg ob der Tauber . The town is the best preserved medieval city in Germany and possibly all of Europe.

You may want to book a guided walking tour to see all the sites.

Some claim Rothenburg is too Disney-esque and exists only for tourists. (This is not the place to buy souvenirs.) That may be the case, but the UNESCO town still dazzles. I’ve never really seen anything quite like it.

If you’re driving like me, park right outside the town limits at the Stadtwerke. Then get lost in the medieval streets and admire the pastel facades.

Hike up the Rathaus Tower for panoramic views or stroll the city walls.

Take in the intriguing Medieval Crime Museum, which exhibits creative torture devices and shame masks.

If you want some lunch, I highly recommend the Cafe Einzigartig, away from the madding crowd on a quaint side street.

If you can tear yourself away from the pastel houses, stop in the town of Ansbach on your way back to Nuremberg. Ansbach also has a pedestrianized medieval center.

Day 8: Day Trip to Bamberg

Just 45 minutes from Nuremberg lies the beautiful UNESCO town of Bamberg . Click here for a 2 hour guided walking tour of the town.

It’s most known for its iconic frescoed town hall, perched on the River Regnitz. But it also boasts a doughty cathedral and yet another fancy palace for former German princes, the Neue Residence.

Bamberg is famous for its beer culture. Its specialties are smoke beer and stuffed onion. If you’re a fan of craft beer, you can even book a beer tour .

I must admit that I skipped the stuffed onion and planted myself in a super cute cafe, Spitz Rein, and had a looooot of cake and espresso instead.

The main activity in Bamberg is just strolling the pretty streets. If you want some exercise, hike up to Michaelsburg Abbey (closed for renovation) for the panoramic views.

You should also stroll along Klein Venedig. It’s Bamberg’s Little Venice. It’s decorated with picturesque canal houses.

If you’re super ambitious, hop back in your car and keep driving another 30 minutes north to nearby Coburg.

There, you’ll find what may be Germany’s greatest castle, Vesta Coburg. It’s authentically medieval and insanely full of a huge collection of armor, weapons, old master paintings, and fancy sleighs.

Day 9: Day Trip to Wurzburg

How many cute Bavarian towns are there in the world?

Turns out, quite a few. Wurzburg is yet another delightful UNESCO town in northern Bavaria.

Aside from its adorable medieval streets, its main claim to fame is the famous Wurzburg Residence . This ornate palace was home to the Wurzburg bishop-kings, who aimed to build a Versailles-like palace.

While you’re in Wurzburg, sip wine on the old main bridge (a local custom). Admire the Wurzburg Cathedral and the pretty chapel, Marienkapelle, in the old town.

Then hike up to the Marienburg Fortress. It’s a fairly steep hike up, but the views are worth the quad strain.

Day 10: Stop In Regensburg En Route Back To Munich

Sadly, your 10 days in Bavaria are almost up.

It’s time to journey back to Munich to catch your plane home. Or head somewhere else in Europe if you’re still vacationing.

But en route to Munich, you can stop in the ravishing town of. Regensburg. The medieval former imperial city and UNESCO town.

I adored medieval Regensburg , beautifully situated on the Danube River. It’s not exactly a hidden gem, but it is compared to Rothenburg.

Regensburg is nicknamed the “northernmost Italy” and filled with pointy towers and cute beer gardens.

It’s a 1,000 years older than Munich, Bavaria’s capital. Regensburg’s crowning glory is its 13th century Gothic cathedral that can be seen from anywhere in the town.

Stroll over the 12th century Stone Bridge for great views and to see the other half of Regensburg, the peaceful Stadtamhof neighborhood.

Regensburg is known for salt, sweet and spicy mustard, and chocolate. Buy mustard at Handlmaier’s Laden and chocolate at the ritzy Cafe Prinzess.

Eat a knacker, which consists of sausage, sweet mustard, and pickles on a bun. Or try a Streuseltaler pastry.

Extra Time In Bavaria?

If you have more than 10 days in Bavaria, here are three other great Bavarian destinations to add to your itinerary.

1. Oberammergau

The painted town of Oberammergau lies in a wide valley. The town is picturesquely surrounded by dark forests and snowy peaks of the Ammergauer Alps.

The town’s historic center is packed with traditional painted houses and woodcarving shops. You’ll also trip over awestruck tourists. They come here to learn about the town’s world-famous Passion Play.

Another top attraction is the  Oberammergau Museum . It’s one of the best places to view exquisite examples of Oberammergau’s famously intricate woodcarving art.

If you want to see Neuschwanstein Castle, Ettal Abbey and Oberammergau all in one day, you can book this guided tour from Munich .

2. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is an extremely picturesque Bavarian town. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to get there from Munich. You can take the train.

A highlight of Garmisch is the AlpspiXhe AlpspiX . It’s a viewing platform high up in the in the Zugspitze Peak. It’s reachable only by cable car.

It’s a 10 minute ride to the top station of Osterfeldekopf.  Even at the outset the view is ridiculously beautiful … because Bavaria.

3. Dachau Concentration Cam p

If you’re in Nuremberg for more than a day, you can easily day trip to Dachau Concentration Camp. It’s a 1:40 drive from Nuremberg.

Dachau played a significant role in having Hilter’s history in Germany. It was one of the first camps set up to hold political prisoners, subversives, Jews, and other “undesirables” during WWII.

On a visit to Dachau, you’ll be presented with the camp’s history in great detail. You’ll learn how the camp morphed from prison to murder factory.

For more info and insight, you can book a  guided day tour from Munich .

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in Bavaria itinerary. Pin it for later.

10 thoughts on “The Perfect 10 Day Itinerary for Bavaria Germany”

Leslie- you seem very nice,. Would you please reply to my request to spend 10 plus days on your Munichen- Fussen tour.

Want to make a reservation !!!!

[email protected]

Hi James. I don’t give tours. I’m just a travel blogger writing up my itineraries and giving you some destination inspiration.

Great suggestions! Planning a road trip and these suggestions are really helpful.

If you want to throw in a really off-the-beaten-path gem that’s still accessible by Munich’s S-Bahn, you might think of including Freising. Older than the city of Munich and the seat of the Cardinal of Bavaria, Freising is home to the oldest brewery in the world, Weihenstephan, and a truly quaint Altstadt worthy of spending an entire day wandering. The Domberg (cathedral hill) has a gorgeous cathedral with work by the famed Asam brothers. And as Freising is a university town and only 15 minutes from Munich’s airport, most residents speak some english and are overall very tolerant to foreigners and tourists (I know, I live here!).

Another really cool Bavarian gem is the small town of Kelheim and it’s boat tour on the Danube to the Weltenburger Kloster (the second-oldest brewery in the world).

Great tips!

What about the world famous Hofbrauehaus?

Depends how much you like beer. It will be packed and I think it’s a bit of a tourist trap.

Are there trains to take you from city to city or must you rent a car?

Yes, you can take trains. Germany has a great train system. To get to Neuschwanstein, you’d have to take the train to Fussen and then a bus from there.

Hello Leslie. It was lovely to read your travel story and advice. My 17 year old son and I are planning to visit Bavaria for approx 20 days this summer. For health reasons I have to take things at a slower pace so I was thinking of stretching your 10 day itinerary over 20 days and adding in all the extra sights yi You mentioned. What is your opinion on driving versus taking trains and transit? I’m an experienced driver but nit overly confident ( I nearly had heart failure driving in Japan). We live in rural Canada. I would just like your advise on car versus trains. Thanks so much! Lisa

I thought it was pretty easy to drive in Bavaria. Roads are great. Just park on the outskirts of any small town and walk in. But Germany has a great train system. You may have to take regional trains to get to smaller towns. Some remote areas or smaller villages might require additional transportation like a bus or a short walk. I think you would be fine either way. I just prefer the flexibility of a car, especially if you are not traveling alone. If you do rent a car, just make sure there is a parking spot at your accommodation and before you leave the rental car station, make sure you know how to put the car in reverse and open the gas tank. Should be easy, but these things aren’t always obvious. Here are my tips for renting a car and driving in Europe: https://www.thegeographicalcure.com/post/tips-for-renting-a-car-and-driving-in-europe

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Last Updated on January 24, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

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Things to do in Bavaria: 20 beautiful places you must see [with map]

Bavaria will enchant you with its sights. Here in the south, you'll discover untouched nature , deep forests , gentle low mountain ranges , rugged mountain peaks in the Alps , turquoise-blue mountain lakes , idyllic half-timbered towns , old castles , and fairytale castles . We'll take you on a tour of Bavaria and reveal the 20 most beautiful sights (limiting it to "only" 20 attractions was damn hard). On our interactive map , you'll find an overview of all the highlights. And now have fun with the most worth seeing Bavarian attractions .

Hi! Wir sind Biggi & Flo

Wir nehmen dich als Reisejournalisten mit zu den schönsten Orten der Welt! Werbehinweis: Alle mit einem * markierten Links sind Werbelinks.

Discover Bavaria: Our top 10 sights at a glance

We’ll start by presenting our personal top 10 sights in Bavaria – briefly and succinctly. Bavaria is so beautiful 😊.

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Zugspitze with Eibsee
• Bamberg Old Town
• Königssee & Upper Lake
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Castle of Burghausen
• Golden Hall Augsburg
• New castle Herrenchiemsee
• Munich Residence
• Romantic Road

Map with all sights in Bavaria

On our interactive map, you will find where to visit the top highlights in Bavaria:

[mapsmarker map=”234″]

1. Neuschwanstein Castle – Bavaria’s top attraction

Neuschwanstein Castle , located in the beautiful Allgäu region, lands on our list of the most beautiful sights in Bavaria at number one. Neuschwanstein is certainly not a secret destination. The fairytale castle near Füssen in the south of the Free State attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year. This also makes Neuschwanstein Castle Bavaria’s most visited attraction .

Given the setting, that’s understandable. The castle, commissioned by Bavarian King Ludwig II, even served as a model for Walt Disney’s fairytale castle at the Disneyland Resort in California.

A guided tour of Neuschwanstein Castle is a must-do. To avoid long waits, be sure to buy your tickets in advance online. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed in the castle. But you can fully concentrate on the many exciting details and stories on the castle tour.

By the way, you have a great view of Neuschwanstein Castle from the Marienbrücke – definitely one of the most beautiful vantage points in Bavaria – to which you can either take a leisurely hike or take the shuttle bus. If you hike a little higher through the beautiful nature, you can see the imposing peaks of the Alps rising into the sky behind Neuschwanstein Castle- a fun and impressive thing to do here!

Also worth seeing are the nearby Hohenschwangau Castle (a guided tour of the royal castle is also recommended) and the idyllic Alpsee Lake , which is located between mountain peaks and is one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria.

If possible, avoid the weekends, especially in summer and the vacation season in Bavaria. In the best case, visit Neuschwanstein Castle in the morning sometime during the week outside school vacations. Then it’s not quite so crowded around Neuschwanstein Castle. Neuschwanstein Castle is also very beautiful in winter when the dream castle and the surrounding mountains are powdered with snow.

2. Zugspitze with Eibsee – an unforgettable nature experience

The Zugspitze near Garmisch-Partenkirchen is 2962 meters high and is Germany’s highest mountain (here you can find a list of Germany’s highest mountains). It’s also one of the most famous tourist activities in Upper Bavaria.

We think: At least once in your life you should have stood on the Zugspitze and experienced the incredible distant view from almost 3000 meters into the Alpine foothills and the Alps. We have already hiked up the Zugspitze several times. Here we tell you how to get to the Zugspitze on foot. It’s not a secret place but still a wonderful place to go!

By the way, here you can find more beautiful hikes in and around Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

If hiking is not your thing, take one of the two cable cars (from Eibsee or Ehrwald in Austria) or the rack railroad (from Garmisch-Partenkirchen) up to Germany’s highest mountain.

Unfortunately, the overbuilt summit plateau is a bit like Munich’s Oktoberfest. There is food and drink and countless beer benches outside. Peace and quiet only return to the summit when the last cable car descends into the valley. Then there are only a few mountaineers on the Zugspitze who spend the night in the Munich House (unfortunately, there areonly a few places to stay overnight). And that’s exactly what we recommend. Enjoy the sunset on the Zugspitze – and the sunrise in the morning. And without any crowds – a real micro adventure and an unforgettable nature experience.

Remember that even in the summer months it can get sensitively cold at this altitude, especially at night (even frost and snow are possible).

A seven-kilometer hike around the Eibsee lake at the foot of the Zugspitze is part of the must-do program when visiting the Zugspitze. The mountain lake is one of the most beautiful in the Alps and a popular excursion destination around Munich in summer and winter. By the way, the Eibsee is also one of the top photo spots and one of the best things to see in Bavaria.

Tip : For us, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one of the most beautiful areas in Bavaria. Here you will find many more great highlights, such as the Partnachklamm .

3. Bamberg – Journey into the past

Bamberg , the “true capital of beer”, is one of the most beautiful half-timbered towns in Germany. We don’t want to highlight any particular sight here: you simply have to see the whole old town with its beautiful half-timbered houses and discover it during a day trip.

What to see in Bamberg? Must-see highlights in this Franconian city include the Old Town Hall, Little Venice, Bamberg Cathedral, and the New Residence with its Rose Garden. It’s just incredibly fun to stroll through the winding alleys and drink a beer or two in a beer garden or cellar.

Beer fans should visit the Franconian Brewery Museum Bamberg in the building of the monastery. We also recommend the 90-minute beer tour with a guide ( more information* ).

Great travel guide for your vacation in Germany

You want to discover not only Bavaria but the whole of Germany even more intensively? Then we recommend DK Eyewitness Munich and the Bavarian Alps ( buy it here* ). Have fun with this great travel guide. You must have a look at Lonely Planet Munich, Bavaria & the Black Forest ( get it here* ).

4. Lake Königssee & Obersee – Experience Bavaria’s most beautiful nature firsthand

Lake Königssee in the Berchtesgaden National Park in southern Bavaria at the foot of the famous Watzmann massif is one of the most beautiful and famous mountain lakes in Bavaria and should not be missing from our list of top sights. Here you will experience the Alps and nature at its best.

You can explore a small part of the impressive mountain lake, which is reminiscent of a deep fjord in Norway, quite comfortably on foot, for example on the Malerwinkel circular trail. It’s a cool place to see!

The famous natural pools at Königssee are also close by. However, access is now strictly prohibited. If you are caught by the rangers at the pools or on the way there, you could face heavy fines.

So it’s better to stay on the signposted paths. In addition to the Malerwinkel circular trail, there is also the leisurely hike to the Achenkanzel with a fantastic view over Lake Königssee or the quite challenging Rinnkendlsteig, which leads to the famous church of St. Bartholomä . Here we tell you even more beautiful hikes in the Berchtesgadener Land.

If you like it more comfortably, book a boat trip on the Königssee . With the electric boat you can also reach the dock Salet . From here, a wide hiking trail without any major climbs leads in about 15 minutes to Obersee , another popular tourist attraction in Berchtesgadener Land. The view of the impressive mountain lake is breathtaking.

Here you can find even more sights in Berchtesgadener Land including great excursion tips for the whole family.

5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Bavaria’s most romantic town

Rothenburg ob der Tauber , one of the most romantic places and at the same time one of the most beautiful small towns in Bavaria, in the north of the Free State is another sight you should not miss.

The old town with its cute half-timbered houses is picturesquely beautiful. Be sure to stroll through the old alleys in the morning and enjoy the flair of the half-timbered town. An absolute highlight is the walkable city wall , which leads completely around the old town. From the city wall, you have fantastic views over the old roofs.

The most famous photo motif is the Plönlein . The Plönlein is a beautiful square with a small fountain. There is also a small, crooked half-timbered house in the triangle of two intersecting streets. Both streets are flanked by city gates and towers- a top thing to do in Bavaria!

It’s also worth taking a guided tour with the night watchman , who will tell you all kinds of interesting facts about Rothenburg and the history of the romantic town.

6. Castle of Burghausen – the longest castle in the world

In the small town of Burghausen on the Bavarian-Austrian border, you will find the longest castle in the world , another popular tourist attraction. At 1051 meters , the castle above the picturesque old town is considered the longest castle complex in Europe. In the Guinness Book of Records , Burghausen Castle even holds the title of “ longest castle in the world “. From the fortress, you have a great view of the city.

A large part of the castle complex with six courtyards, including a beer garden, you can visit for free and enjoy the great distant views. The castle museum, which is also worth a visit, charges admission.

Of course, a trip to the old town of Burghausen is also worthwhile. By the way, the castle hill was already settled in the Bronze Age (around the 16th century BC). The oldest parts of the huge fortress, which had an important military significance for centuries, probably date back to around the year 1025. A massive expansion of the castle complex took place in view of the approaching Turks in the year 1490.

In December, the castle hosts the famous Burgweihnacht , a very special Christmas market in Bavaria.

7. Golden Hall Augsburg – a top attraction in the Fugger city

The beautiful old town of Augsburg is always worth a visit. We would like to highlight one special feature here: the Golden Hall in the town hall of the old Fugger city.

The Golden Hall is considered one of the highlights of Renaissance interior design in Germany. Its ceiling is covered with gold leaf and there is no shortage of magnificent gold ornaments. Believe us, you will be amazed.

What else to do in Augsburg? Besides the Golden Hall, there are many other highlights in Augsburg, such as the Fuggerei, Augsburg Cathedral, and the Lech district.

Here you can find even more great sights in Augsburg.

8. New castle Herrenchiemsee – popular excursion destination

Lake Chiemsee is one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria and a popular excursion and vacation destination in the summer. One of my good friends from Berlin spends two weeks every year with his children at the Chiemsee . The largest lake in Bavaria not only offers beautiful beaches. Of course, a steamboat trip on Lake Chiemsee is one of the must-dos in Bavaria.

A special highlight and for us, one of the top sights in Bavaria, is the New Herrenchiemsee Castle on the island of Herrenchiemsee. You can reach the largest island of the Chiemsee by excursion boat. A walk across the idyllically situated island with beer gardens is worthwhile. Herrenchiemsee Castle is a place you have to visit.

Like Neuschwanstein Castle, this worthwhile attraction was built by King Ludwig II, who was inspired by Versailles Castle near Paris. After the death of King Ludwig II in 1886, most of the complex unfortunately remained unfinished.

Today, the King Ludwig II Museum is located in the palace. In addition, the Herrenchiemsee Festival takes place once a year in the large hall of mirrors of the castle – this is also a very special highlight.

9. Munich Residence – an imposing palace complex

One of the most beautiful Bavarian sights is definitely the Residence in the state capital Munich . The magnificent city palace – the largest inner-city palace in Germany, by the way – once housed dukes, electors, and kings. Today you can visit the impressive complex with its imposing rooms as a tourist.

What is to see in the Residence? The museum is huge. Particularly impressive is the Antiquarium , a huge vaulted magnificent building. But you should not miss rooms like the Emperor’s Room or the Porcelain Chamber .

The Residence also includes the Hofgarten, which is a popular summer destination in the middle of the city.

During Advent, the Residenz hosts a beautiful Christmas market in one of the ten courtyards of the huge complex.

Absolutely worthwhile is a guided Munich tour with a guide ( book a city tour here* ). You can also find all the cool things to do in Munich here.

10. Romantic Road – the perfect road trip through Bavaria

The Romantic Road is our top sight number 10 in Bavaria. The Romantic Road is one of the most famous vacation roads in Germany (also worldwide) and leads since 1950 on 413 kilometers from Würzburg to Füssen at the edge of the Bavarian Alps (famous for Neuschwanstein Castle, our number 1 sight in Bavaria).

Of course, the Romantic Road follows existing roads – so no road was built here specifically for tourism. Over the decades, the route has been slightly modified a few times to preserve its rural character.

Not only Würzburg and Füssen are worth seeing. There are some beautiful towns along the way. What’s at the Romatic Road to do? Major stops include Wertheim (also known throughout Germany for Wertheim Village), Bad Mergentheim, Rothenburg ob der Tauber (our top sight number 5), Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, Augsburg, Landsberg am Lech, and Schwangau.

Theoretically, you can easily manage the Romantic Road, a small part of which also runs through Baden-Württemberg, in one day.

But to see and experience something, you should plan at least five days for this great road trip through Bavaria.

By the way, here you can find our perfect road trip through Germany.

11. Emperor’s castle Nuremberg – top sightseeing in Middle Franconia

You simply have to see the Kaiserburg in Nuremberg . The landmark of Bavaria’s second-largest city , located in Middle Franconia, has served as a fortress, imperial residence, imperial castle, and Hohenzollern burgrave’s seat over the centuries, making it one of the most important castles in Europe in terms of history and architecture.

By the way, the Kaiserburg is located on the Felsenberg and stands high above the city. The view from the castle over Nuremberg is magnificent. In addition to the Imperial Castle, Nuremberg has a wonderful old town with many half-timbered buildings, through which it’s worth strolling.

Here we tell you all the sights in Nuremberg. In addition, you will find the most beautiful hikes around Nuremberg.

12. Kehlsteinhaus – popular destination in the Bavarian Alps

Another highlight on any trip to Bavaria are Kehlstein and Kehlsteinhaus in Berchtesgadener Land in the south of the Free State. The Kehlstein (1881 meters) towers above the Obersalzberg documentation and is one of the most visited peaks in the German Alps.

The Kehlsteinhaus looks back on a dark history. The building was once built by the NSDAP and served the Nazis as a representation building. Adolf Hitler and his followers were regularly on site. Today, only a photo exhibition reminds us of this dark part of German history. From the summit, you have a fantastic view of Watzmann and Königssee.

From the Obersalzberg parking lot ( Google Maps ), you can reach the Kehlstein summit on foot via a pleasant panoramic path in about three hours. Alternatively, you can take the bus (line 849; from the beginning of May until the end of October) to the Kehlsteinhaus. The last meters of altitude you overcome with a historic elevator.

Once you reach the summit, you should walk the Kehlstein circular route (1.5 kilometers, 100 meters in altitude). Remember to wear sturdy shoes to be comfortable and safe.

13. Danube Breakthrough & Weltenburg Monastery – Experience Nature

The Danube Breakthrough near Kelheim is also one of Bavaria’s most popular things to do. From Kelheim you take a boat to the Danube breakthrough near Weltenburg . The narrow passage in the Danube valley is known far beyond Germany. The nature here is simply beautiful.

Be sure to make a stop at Weltenburg Monastery with its famous beer garden. Also worth seeing is the Befreiungshalle Kelheim . In addition, the famous Valhalla is very close by.

14. Felsburg Tüchersfeld – landmark of Franconian Switzerland

Franconian Switzerland is one of the most scenic places in Bavaria. You can expect wacky rock formations in the midst of nature. One of the most famous things to do in Franconian Switzerland is the rock castle Tüchersfeld in the beautiful Püttlach valley.

Above the small village towers an imposing rock castle, which today is considered the coolest landmark of Franconian Switzerland . At the foot of the steeply towering rock are some beautiful half-timbered houses.

We guarantee you: you will be thrilled by this photo spot.

15. Steinerne Brücke Regensburg – historical sight

Regensburg is also worth seeing. By the way, Biggi studied here for a few years and knows her way around the beautiful city on the Danube. A very special highlight is the Steinerne Brücke (stone bridge), the landmark of Regensburg.

Construction of the imposing bridge began as early as 1135, making the Steinerne Brücke the oldest surviving bridge in Germany – and a very special sight for that reason alone.

A pact with the devil

Legend has it that the bridge builder made a bet with the cathedral builder as to which of them would be the first to complete his structure. The construction of the cathedral went faster, whereupon the builder of the bridge made a pact with the devil .

If he helped him, he would get the first three living souls to cross the bridge. The devil went along with the deal, and the bridge was completed before the cathedral. With a ruse, the bridge builder tricked the devil: He first sent a dog, a hen, and a rooster across the bridge.

In revenge, the devil wanted to destroy the bridge. But all he managed to do was to form a hump in the middle of the bridge. Right here, a monument was erected to the master bridge builder, showing him looking towards the cathedral. The statue is called Bruckmandl (bridge man) by the people of Regensburg.

16. Großer Arber – Highlight in the Bavarian Forest

The Bavarian Forest will enchant you with its beautiful nature. The Großer Arber (Great Arber) is with 1456 meters the highest mountain in the Bavarian Forest and next to Zugspitze, Watzmann, and Brocken in Saxony-Anhalt one of the most famous mountains in Germany and should not be missing from our list of Bavarian top sights. The Große Arber is a popular hiking destination in summer and winter.

Very popular is the ascent from the Arbersee with the Arberseehaus via the Arberweg to the summit. The hike is – there and back – about eight kilometers long. There are almost 500 meters of altitude to overcome.

17. Devil’s Cave Pottenstein – the most beautiful cave in Bavaria

The Devil’s Cave Pottenstein is another cool thing to do in Franconian Switzerland, where there are more than 1000 caves. The Devil’s Cave Pottenstein in the district of Bayreuth is the largest of them and also very well developed for tourism. The show cave is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Germany.

You can explore the dripstone cave as part of a guided cave tour (about 45 minutes). You will dive deep into the Franconian underworld. Many impressive stalactites await you. The cave is about three kilometers long, about half of which you can visit on the guided tour.

18. Valhalla – Greece in Bavaria

In the famous memorial Valhalla near Regensburg, since 1842 – originally at the instigation of the Bavarian King Ludwig I – important personalities of “German tongue” are honored with marble busts and memorial plaques overlooking the Danube. In the imposing hall are busts of personalities such as Johannes Kepler, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Immanuel Kant, Friedrich v. Schiller, Richard Wagner, and Sophie Scholl.

For us, Valhalla is clearly one of the top things to do in Bavaria – if only because of its architecture, which reminds us very much of Greece.

19. Marienplatz Munich – meeting point in the village of millions

We would like to show you another of Munich’s sights: the Marienplatz . World famous is the New City Hall , completed in 1905, with its carillon.

The carillon in the town hall tower depicts the wedding of Duke Wilhelm V with Renate of Lorraine in 1568 and the Schäffler dance. After a plague epidemic, the barrel makers were the first to dare to go out on the streets again and cheer up the people of Munich by dancing, so the story goes.

The carillon can be seen daily at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., from March to October additionally at 5 p.m.. At 9 p.m., the night watchman also blows his horn while the “Münchner Kindl” (child of Munich) is being put to bed.

20. Würzburg Residence – Highlight in Lower Franconia

We don’t want to forget the Würzburg Residence in Lower Franconia. The magnificent baroque palace is one of the most important residence buildings in Europe. Since 1981, the complex has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

One highlight you definitely shouldn’t miss is the picturesque staircase with the largest continuous ceiling fresco in the world . You can visit around 40 of the 340 rooms, including the Mirror Cabinet decorated with reverse paintings on glass, the pompous Emperor’s Hall , and the White Hall , which, in contrast to the other rooms, appears plain and colorless.

You should also visit the richly decorated Court Church of the Most Holy Trinity , which is impressive not only because of its elaborate decoration but also because of its three oval dome vaults. In the courtyard garden , you can relax after a tour and enjoy the view of the residence and parts of the Lower Franconian metropolis.

We hope you enjoyed our travel tips with the most beautiful Bavarian sights and you spend an unforgettable vacation with us in the south of Germany 😊.

Florian Westermann

Florian is a travel journalist, photographer and co-founder of the travel blog Phototravellers . "Photography and the mountains are my passion. I've been to North America countless times, but I'm also fascinated by the Nordic countries, Italy and of course our home country Germany." By the way, here you can find my online photography course .

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10 Days Itinerary In Bavaria Germany

If you have just started planning a trip through Bavaria in Germany, you are probably thinking about the itinerary. You are most likely overwhelmed with the sheer number of amazing places to visit . Plus, you want to fit them all in a 10 days itinerary in Bavaria.

Bavaria has a lot to offer, and that is for certain. You can visit a great number of magnificent cities in Bavaria, like Munich , for example. You can also go on the tremendous Bavarian beer route if you are a connoisseur of beer.

We will give you a detailed itinerary for Bavaria, and all you will need to do is follow it and have a wonderful time! So, let us take a look.

• Rail Transport Is The Most Environmentally Friendly Way To Travel. Th is article is written to educate about Train Travel by Save A Train, The Cheapest Train Tickets Website In The World .

What Do You Need To Know Before We Get Started With Our 10 Day Itinerary In Bavaria?

Before we begin, there are a few things you need to know.

Bavaria is a big province, and you can easily spend weeks in it. It is probably necessary if you want to see everything in great detail.

However, if you are going for a 10 day trip, then you will have to cut some things out. What is more, it would be best to go via train . If you are to do that, you will be able to get to every place in no time. On top of that, you will have the chance to witness the greatest views Bavaria offers.

Furthermore, going by train through Bavaria is very easy and inexpensive. Tickets are cheap, and you can visit every corner of the province.

In the end, you need to know when to visit Bavaria. The times your 10 days itinerary in Bavaria should cover are anywhere from September to October. You will avoid the crowds, and you will also get the chance to visit Oktoberfest .

Now that all of that is covered, let us take a look at your itinerary:

Bavaria Itinerary Day 1 And 2: Munich

When going to Bavaria, you have to start with Munich. First of all, it is easy to reach, no matter where you are in Europe. You can take a train from almost anywhere and reach Munich. Or, if you are coming from somewhere far away, you can fly. Munich is the biggest city in Bavaria, and planes fly to it from many cities across the globe. If not that, you can easily reach it by flying to another major city and then going to Munich .

Plus, let us not forget that any 10 days itinerary in Bavaria cannot be complete without Munich. You will undoubtedly find this city a magical place to visit . From the stunning clock tower to the Englisher Garten, you will have lots of places to visit.

If you want to see as much of it as possible, we advise you to stay in the center. That way, you will be able to get to everything on foot.

By the end of day 2, you should pack your bags and go to the town of Berchtesgaden .

Dusseldorf to Munich Trains

Dresden to Munich Trains

Nuremberg to Munich Trains

Bonn to Munich Trains

3 And 4: Berchtesgaden And The Surrounding National Park

Berchtesgaden is located in the South East of Bavaria. It is a small pocket of land on the border with Austria. You will find the most beautiful national park in Germany in this area. Plus, you will also get to spend some time in the magical town of Berchtesgaden.

In the end, you will have to visit Lake Konigsee and the Eagles Nest. Lake Konigsee is the highest lake in Germany and is surrounded by magnificent mountains. As for the Eagles Nest, all history buffs will love to visit it, as it was the command post of the Nazis.

If you want to mix things up, you can also go to Salzburg. The city is close to the border and Berchtesgaden, and it is equally magical to Salzburg !

You can then end your marvelous day with dinner in Berchtesgaden. After spending the night, you can move on to the next destination on day 5.

Salzburg to Berchtesgaden

Munich to Berchtesgaden

Linz to Berchtesgaden

Innsbruck to Berchtesgaden

Bavaria Itinerary Days 5, 6, And 7: Garmisch Partenkirchen, Zugspitze, And Neuschwanstein Castle

The next step on your 10 days itinerary in Bavaria includes some of the most picturesque places in Germany. Once day 5 starts, you should hop on a train to Garmisch Partenkirchen .

Here is what you can experience in this area:

Day 5: Settle in and visit the main part of the town.

Day 6: Go to the magical Neuschwanstein Castle . You know it as one of the most iconic castles in the world. It is an authentic fairytale castle and the one that inspired the Disney castle .

Day 7: Visit the summit of Zugspitze, which is fairly close to the town. Here you can get one of the best views of the Alps. Some people hike, but we advise you to take the cable car.

This will be the longest part of your journey and an important one to boot. On day 8, you can move on to Rothenburg .

Ulm to Fussen Trains

Munich to Fussen Trains

Stuttgart to Fussen Trains

Nuremberg to Fussen Trains

8: Rothenburg Itinerary In Bavaria

Day 8 is reserved for a long train ride and the colorful town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. You do not have to worry that the ride is long, you will have plenty of time to visit this picturesque town. It is very small, and you can see it in one afternoon.

By the end of the day, you can dine on the Schneeballen. If you want, you can stay the night, or you can move on to the next destination: Nuremberg or Wurzburg.

Berlin to Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber Trains

Stuttgart to Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber Trains

Munich to Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber Trains

Frankfurt to Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber Trains

Bavaria Itinerary Days 9 And 10: Nuremberg Or Wurzburg

Nuremberg is the second biggest city in the province of Bavaria. It is also a must-visit place on your 10 days itinerary in Bavaria. However, if you want, you can always switch it to Wurzburg. Both cities are relatively close to each other and Rothenburg, so the travel part will be easy.

Both cities are magical and filled with Medieval history and castles. So, it is really up to you to decide which one is more interesting.

As you will have almost two full days, you might even be able to visit both.

Bremen to Nuremberg Trains

Leipzig to Nuremberg Trains

Hanover to Nuremberg Trains

Hamburg to Nuremberg Trains

The Bottom Line

So, there it is. Your 10 days itinerary in Bavaria, Germany. We made sure to include every important stop in this magnificent region of Europe. We have also included how to reach all of them by train to truly experience all the magic it has to offer.

If you want to know more about Itinerary In Bavaria, feel free to contact Save A Train .

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Liam Mallari

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Getting to and around Bavaria

In all regions of Bavaria, you can get to a number of cities and towns, sights and excursion destinations comfortably and at attractive prices by train. Here you will find information on connections, tickets and regional offers, as well as links to the current Covid19-regulations.

Travelling by train in Bavaria

In all regions of Bavaria you will find a variety of worthwhile destinations that you can reach by train. Information on connections, tickets and regional offers can be found here.

From all over the world

For all visitors and travellers from abroad, Munich, Nuremberg, Memmingen and Augsburg provide four airports with connections all over the world.

Munich Airport | Airport Nuremberg Memmingen Airport | Airport Augsburg

Anything but ordinary: our tips

Cool and cheap.

Bavaria's youth hostels are located in large cities and places worth seeing. We took a look around Burghausen and Lindau on Lake Constance.

10 x Glamping in Bavaria

Luxury camping aka glamping is becoming more and more popular. For comfort lovers, there are many offers such as sleeping barrels, wooden igloos ...

Goodbye two-man tent!

We present some exceptional campsite ideas in Bavaria - including one in the middle of a lake

Hotel Victoria Nuremberg

Right in the centre of Nuremberg and directly opposite the New Museum of Art and Design, cheerful, fresh rooms with an artistic touch.

Tiny-House provider Thomas Gstettenbauer

How about spending the night in a cool, mobile “Tiny House” deep in the Bavarian Forest amongst the deer?

Schlossparkhotel Mariakirchen

Comfort awaits you in the restored medieval moated castle, while the beer garden of the palace's own brewery provides Bavarian cosiness.

Romantik Boutique Hotel Chalet am Kiental

In order to ensure that every guest finds their favourite room, Maria and Jürgen Lehn have furnished each room at the historic “Sixtnhof” differently.

Hotel Fuchsbräu

For five generations, the “Fuchsbräu” has been family-owned and has transformed into a stylish four-star boutique hotel.

12 x Rustic farm holiday

Relax and unwind. You can do all this on a farm holiday in Bavaria! There is a wide range of rural accommodation to choose from: 12 cool rustic tips

Nuremberg Youth Hostel

Behind the massive stone walls of the Imperial Stables of Nuremberg Castle, built in 1495, the 93 rooms of the youth hostel are spread over nine floor

News from Bavaria

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Bavaria Tours & Trips

Bavaria is an idyllic state in the south of Germany and shares a border with Austria . Munich is the largest city and is the host of the Oktoberfest Beer Festival . The famous Romantic Road is a scenic route that visits medieval towns and villages before winding up right at the foothills of the Alps . If you're visiting during winter, make sure to plan a stop and visit the Christmas Market in Nuremberg.

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203 bavaria tour packages with 297 reviews.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Self Guided Walking Holidays

From Munich to Garmisch

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• In-depth Cultural

Magical Bavaria

Small tour group with an exceptionally knowledgeable guide. He knew the best places to stop for food/beer and navigated us through any queues! Such beautiful places to explore (Rothenburg & Residenz Wurzburg were a particular highlight... we would never have visited if travelling alone) Hotels were of a high quality... particularly loved the hotel in Nuremberg (facilities & breakfast were awesome) Location of all hotels were perfect. All airport transfers were on time and very professional. Tour transport was very comfortable- Mercedes Bus. We would definitely book with Indus Travel again as they responded quickly to all queries. Miller were their local supplier in Germany we can highly recommend them - a very professional service.

• Mountain Hikes

Bavarian Alps & Lakes

• Self-Guided Cycling

Lake Constance - Lake Koenigssee - Salzburg 14/13

Setting up the tour, and the tour itself were wonderful. We had a few glitches in our plans and Paula was a great help in getting them worked out. Hotels were very good and clean, food at the hotels, excellent! That said, the bikes were NOT. Even though they were brand new, and the gearing great for what they were. However, we did this tour under our own power, no electric bikes, and were told that hybrid bikes were not available for this tour, also told we weren’t allowed to use clip-in pedals. The bikes were heavy, and we found ourselves walking and pushing them up many hills, some rocky and gravel roads, which, if we would have had a decent bike for this tour, a hybrid bike, we would most likely had an easier time of it. Not happy about the bikes! Also, the opening page of the tour says 1-99 as in years old of people that could do this tour, definitely false advertising, there is no way, even with the electric bikes, that some people could not navigate the roads on this tour. We are 2 women in our 70’s and did it, I am proud to say, we have a lot of experience, it was not easy. It could have been much more enjoyable with a different bike. Over all, a fantastic trip. Thank you.

• Christmas & New Year

5 Days Munich and Bavaria (Neuschwanstein Castle & Konigssee Lake)

Wonderful time! Hotel was great, arrangements were smooth, and when complications arose (train strike), they kept in contact with me, updating me and offering alternatives. Great company.

Bavaria Bike Tour | Guided Bike Tour | Germany

Main River BikeTour | Self-Guided | Wurzburg to Frankfurt

Walking Bavaria’s Lakes and Mountains

Romantic Road & Bavarian Lakes

• Off-Road Cycling

Lakes & Mountains of Bavaria Cycling

• Festival & Events

Oktoberfest Munich (3-Star Hotel Senator)

Nice tour guides good hotel spot great beer need to do it once in your life

Munich to Salzburg Cycle

8 Day Munich and Beyond Self-Adventure

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Munich Oktoberfest

The Euro Adventures team did a fantastic job with organising accommodation and where able to help me with extra accommodation prior to the tour date as I was arriving early. Also great communication before, during and post the tour date. The detailed information sent via email for Octoberfest was really useful also the instructions and tips for getting to and from the accommodation was really helpful.

• River Cruise

Charming Germany Dutch Grace Superior Deluxe

What people love about bavaria tours.

Small tour group with an exceptionally knowledgeable guide. He knew the best places to stop for food/beer and navigated us through any queues! Such beautiful places to explore (Rothenburg & Residenz Wurzburg were a particular highlight... we would never have visited if travelling alone) Hotels were of a high quality... particularly loved the hotel in Nuremberg (facilities & breakfast were awesome) Location of all hotels were perfect. All airport transfers were on time and very professional. Tour transport was very comfortable- Mercedes Bus. We would definitely book with Indus Travel again as they responded quickly to all queries. Miller were their local supplier in Germany we can highly recommend them - a very professional service.

Bavaria Tours starting in:

• Munich (43)
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• Garmisch-Partenkirchen (6)
• Nuremberg (6)
• Bernried am Starnberger See (6)
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Other Regions in Germany

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• Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania (11)
• Lower Saxony (11)
• Lake Constance (10)

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• Destinations
• Travel advice

10 Day Bavaria itinerary

• August 12, 2022

Table of Contents

If you want to travel to Bavaria, you are on the right page. In this article, you can read what the best places in Bavaria are to discover, things to do in Bavaria and why this part of Germany is worth visiting.

We have made a 10 day Bavaria itinerary and share our experience in this article. Our Bavaria itinerary offers a good mix between nature, culture, city, countryside, activities, and relaxation. The nice thing about our Bavaria itinerary is that every day is completely different.

You can use this Bavaria itinerary for inspiration or copy it and do exactly what we did.

How many days do you need to travel through Bavaria?

Bavaria is the largest state in Germany, so you can see a lot. We have traveled through Bavaria for 10 days and have made this Bavaria itinerary based on this. It is not necessary to have 10 days, with 7 days you can also make a great trip.

When you have less than 10 days you have to make choices and do not have the option to stay too long in one place. In this case, we recommended skipping Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

If you have more than 2 weeks, you’re lucky. In this case you can stay at Rothenburg ob der Tauber and stay longer at Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden. If you have more time, you can also do different hikes in addition to the various sights and activities.

Be aware that it is impossible to see everything in places like Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden. You can easily stay one week each at these two places.

How much budget do you need for this Bavaria itinerary?

Traveling through Bavaria and Germany, in general, can be as expensive and cheap as you want. In general, it is not cheap to travel through Western Europe. If you pay close attention to what you spend and travel with a tight budget, €40– €70 ($45- $80) per day is enough. On average, a traveler spends between €75– €125 ($80- $130) per day. We have written an article about Germany trip cost where you can read how much you spend per category and how you can also save costs. We also share how much our trip through Bavaria cost to give you a good indication.

Transport Bavaria

For this itinerary through Bavaria, you can use the train, bus, or car. Public transport in Germany is good and the places you visit are all easily accessible. It is best to travel by plane to Munich and start there. Public transport tickets can be pre-purchased here .

Roadtrip Bavaria

When you have the option to travel by car we recommend doing so. The advantage is that you have more flexibility during your trip. If you travel to Germany by plane and you are looking for a car to rent, you can rent it through  Rentalcars . We use Rentalcars when we want to travel by car to discover new destinations. They’re easy to use and book with.

Where to stay when traveling through Bavaria?

To help you to choose the right accommodation when traveling through Bavaria, we’ve written an article sharing our favorite accommodations for Bavaria . In this article, we share the best accommodations per destination. It saves you a lot of searching, all you have to do is make a reservation at one of our recommended accommodations.

Travel insurance

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The perfect 10 day Bavaria itinerary

The itinerary through Bavaria that we recommend has a good mix between nature, culture, city, countryside, activities, and relaxation. The best thing about traveling through Bavaria is that especially travelers who love nature will be very happy. In addition, the great advantage is that activities are diverse, and every type of traveler can build his perfect Bavaria itinerary. Because of the German Alps, it is awesome to travel through this beautiful landscape. For many travelers Bavaria is still unknown, below we explain shortly each destination. If you are interested, you can open the relevant article via the link to read more information about it.

In each article, you can read about the best things to do in Bavaria, where to stay, how to get there and other useful tips. You will also find a map per destination in which you can see where all the most important things can be found.

The map below shows this 10 day Bavaria itinerary. You can see that flying to Munich is the best option but you can of course also travel by car from other destinations. We recommend starting at Berchtesgaden because on the way back travel time will be less. Click on the top right corner to enlarge the map.

See all destinations shown below in an overview in which you can see how many nights and days you will stay per place.

You can of course adjust the number of nights and days per destination. Based on our experience, this overview is balanced because it provides a good mix between culture, nature, city, countryside, activities, and relaxation.

Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is the first destination of the journey. Berchtesgaden is a pleasant town that is close to the Berchtesgaden National Park. This allows you to do some hiking in Berchtesgaden . In addition to the hikes, you can visit a couple of sights. Lake Königssee , for example, is our sight to visit because you can compare it to the fjords in Norway. The surrounding mountains and the location is beautiful to see. But also not unimportant to know is that Berchtesgaden itself is also nice to stay because it is a good place to get the know the German culture. After all, it is not that touristic. Finally, Berchtesgaden is close to Austria and within 30 minutes you can visit Salzburg . This is one of the nicest Austrian cities and is best known for the fact that this is the birthplace of Mozart and many buildings from the Baroque era can be found here. Read here things to do in Berchtesgaden .

Tip: stay 3 nights | day 1 – 4 | travel time from the airport of Munich: 2 hours 20 min.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the winter sports capital of Germany in the winter. Outside the winter months, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a great place to be active because there is so much to see. You can visit Zugspitze , which is the highest mountain in Germany. Nearby is Eibsee located which is a beautiful lake where you can swim, hike or do water sports activities. You can also do great hikes in Garmisch-Partenkirchen , so you can walk between a gorge or high in the mountains where you are always surprised by the views. Find out what you can do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen here .

Tip: stay 3 nights | day 4 – 7 | travel time Berchtesgaden – Garmisch-Partenkirchen: 2 hours 30 min.

From Garmisch-Partenkirchen it is best to travel to Füssen, this is an old town which is surrounded by old walls and where a fortress is located on top of the mountain near the historic center. Füssen is worth visiting because of what you can do in the area. Neuschwanstein Castle is a 5-minute drive from Füssen and is without a doubt the most beautiful castle you could visit in all of Europe. When traveling through Bavaria, a visit to Neuschwanstein is highly recommended, you don’t want to miss it. In our article about Neuschwanstein , we tell you the best way to do this. Besides Neuschwanstein, Füssen has even more to offer. Find out here what you can do in and around Füssen .

Tip: stay 1 night | day 7 – 8 | travel time Garmisch-Partenkirchen – Füssen: 55 min.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

After visiting Füssen and Neuschwanstein you can visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber . This is the most beautiful town you can visit in Germany. If you leave Füssen early in the morning, you only need a few hours to see the most important places of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The special thing about Rothenburg ob der Tauber is that it is one of the best-preserved places from the Middle Ages in Germany. Everything you see is from this period which makes it incredibly to walk through, it feels like walking through an open-air museum. Keep in mind that this day is intensive because of a lot of driving. It is definitely worth a visit, there are few places in Europe where you can admire such well-preserved buildings from the Middle Ages.

Tip: stay n/a you stay in Munich and visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber as a day trip | day 8 – 9 | Travel time Füssen – Rothenburg ob der Tauber: 2 hours 10 min & Rothenburg ob der Tauber – Munich: 2 hours and 20 minutes. So in total you drive that day for 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Munich is a great city, it is the second largest city in Germany after Berlin. You can easily stay a few days in Munich. The nice thing about Munich is that despite the Second World War, quite a few old buildings have been preserved. For example, the old Residenz München is worth a visit, this is the old palace of the princes and kings of Germany. In addition to the many historic buildings, the squares with many terraces are very cozy and in the evening there are parties at the many bars. Nice to sit down at one of the beer halls, so you get an idea of ​​what it is like to be present at an Oktoberfest.

If history interests you, it is worth visiting the Dachau concentration camp. This was the first concentration camp used. We went here one morning and recommend it if you want to learn more about the Second World War. Discover in our 2-day Munich itinerary all our tips.

Travel Guide Germany

Creating a trip to Bavaria is part of the preparation. If you are looking for more information about Germany in general, we recommend reading our Germany travel guide . In this travel guide, you can read what the best period is to travel to Germany, what is useful to take with you, which places are also worth visiting, and much more useful information.

Bavaria itinerary FAQ

1. can you give two more itineraries (1 week and 2 weeks) for bavaria as an example that we can use for inspiration.

Of course, below you see two itineraries based on our experience that you can use if you have 1 or 2 weeks to travel through Bavaria.

1 week itinerary Bavaria

2 weeks itinerary Bavaria

What do you think of this Bavaria itinerary? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclaimer: the prices mentioned in this article may differ from the current situation. We regularly update our articles. Would you like to help us to provide to best possible insights to help other travelers leave a comment with the latest information. Thanks!

Did you like the article? Then save it to Pinterest!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

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Travelling Bavaria In Germany In A Week

This 1 week Bavaria Germany itinerary talks about my backpacking trip there. In this blog, I will talk about how I explored The Romantic Road and the most popular highlight in Bavaria: the town of Munich.

But before I start the itinerary, I want to share a few useful resources I have written in Germany. If you do not know, I have been to Germany thrice on three different media trips. The most recent was a one-week Romantic Road Trip that happened in 2019. Before that, I have been to other places like Kühlungsborn (on the Baltic) and Ruegen, Germany . The Baltic is certainly a very offbeat place to visit, especially if you are travelling to Berlin . 

Now let’s start with our Bavaria travel itinerary.

Bavaria is unlike any other part of Germany. It has all the good things (that a tourist would want), unlike other German regions. It’s cleaner, more laid back, amazingly diverse, has enough small towns to wander around and yes, more beer than you can imagine.

From towns like Munich which are popular as the beer capital of the world to others like Rothenburg which has always remained an inspiration to artists, Bavaria has something for everyone.

During my recent visit, I got a chance to spend some time in Bavaria and Bavaria alone, thanks to Germany Tourism invited me for a 1 week Bavaria itinerary. It all happened when they asked if I would be interested to tour Germany in one week. Since I had been to other regions in the country during my previous two visits, Bavaria turned out to be a natural preference.

So out of my trip and learnings, this is my suggested 1 week Bavaria Germany itinerary.

1 week Bavaria Germany Itinerary

If you want to understand Bavaria inside and out, you need at least a month to travel. That’s because Bavaria is huge and diverse. The Romantic Road itself can take about a week to cover. Other than the 10 towns on The Romantic Road (including Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, Nördlingen, Donauwörth, Augsburg, Landsberg, Schongau, Pfaffenwinkel and Schwangau) you have towns like Munich and Nuremberg.

So yea, you need a lot of time to see all of Bavaria.

But for those who are short on time and still want to get hold of the region here’s my 1-week itinerary for Bavaria Germany (6-night and 7-day):

Day1: Munich to Rothenburg

Since Munich is the hub of all international connections in Bavaria, it’s only natural you will land in Munich.

But rather than exploring Munich first (as I ended up doing), I advise you to leave Munich for the last few days in the country. And this is for a few reasons:

• So that you don’t risk missing your flight as I did. I almost missed my afternoon flight from Munich to New Delhi because I travelled from Lindau to Munich on the same day. Despite leaving Lindau (about just 200km southwest of Munich) at 6 in the morning, I barely reached on time and missed my flight.
• Munich airport is a little far from the city: So rather than spending 30 min journey to get to Munich city, why not add 2 more hours on the journey and reach Rothenburg.
• This way you save 12 EUR that you may otherwise spend in getting to Munich city and then later paying for the onward journey to Rothenburg, the next day.

Now be careful with the fact that Rothenburg ob der Tauber is not the only Rothenburg in Germany! Avoid arriving in the wrong Rothenburg by double confirming your train/bus to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

You can find a second-class (with no reservation) train ticket from Munich to Rothenburg for 30 EUR.

Speaking of Rothenburg, for those who didn’t know, Rothenburg is one of the original sources of inspiration for Pinocchio. Walt Disney designed the houses in the cartoon based on Rothenburg’s picturesque medieval time buildings.

The town became so popular among (wealthy) Americans before the second world war that it was spared from imminent devastating bombardment because the American general in command remembered Rothenburg from his parents´ postcards and decided that such a marvellous city must not be destroyed.

Having said that, Rothenburg is a highlight and you should not miss it during your 1 week Bavaria itinerary. A one-day trip to Rothenburg is enough to explore the entire town.

What To See & Do In Rothenburg

• Eating a Schneeball
• Exploring Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Store
• Visiting Medieval Crime Museum
• Completing The Tower Trail of The Old Town Wall

And here’s a detailed Travel Guide On Rothenburg for those looking for more tips.

Here’s another interesting travel blog on Germany that talks about the 10 best places and guess what, the author has listed Rothenburg as number 1. So yea, you read any Germany guide online and you will read mentions of Rothenburg.

Practical Tip : I use GoEuro to book my train and bus journeys in Europe and suggest you do so too. Consider it the Skyscanner for land and air transport in Europe. The GoEuro mobile app moreover gives a unique Barcode for every booking that can be used as your ticket. No need to print them out and waste more EURs. 

Day2: Rothenburg To Lindau

Rothenburg to Lindau can be a long journey but certainly not tiring, for the picturesque landscapes it has to offer. So if nothing else, the journey itself will be a memory.

For budget travellers, there are, unfortunately, no buses between the two destinations, leaving it to only one option: taking a Deutsche Bahn which can cost around 30 EUR for a 6-hour single journey.

The town of Lindau borders Austria and Switzerland, allowing you to visit two countries together. Just take a 12 EUR ferry from Lindau to Bregenz and you’re in Austria.

The harbour and its promenade are two popular tourist destinations in Lindau. This is where people stroll, sit, bike, roller skate and eat ice cream. At the promenade, you will find many street entertainers performing juggling tricks or playing musical instruments.

The best place to stay in Lindau is on the island. I stayed at Hotel Ratsstuben, located inside the old town, and can suggest you the same place.

What To See & Do In Lindau

• Visiting Lindenhof Park
• Dining At One Of The Lakeside Restaurants
• Exploring Lindau Island On A Bike
• Taking A Boat ride to Bregenz in Austria

A half-day tour of Lindau is enough to quickly explore and skim through its beautiful highlights.

Day 3: Lindau To Füssen

Lindau to Füssen is another beautiful train journey that costs about 12 EUR and nearly one and a half hours. Again, there are no buses between the two destinations, but direct trains are available between Lindau To Füssen.

Full of cafes, restaurants, and tourist shops, Füssen, despite being a popular tourist destination has well retained its original old town charm.

There are two reasons for anyone to visit Füssen: one, it happens to be the southernmost town (a dead end) for the Romantic Road trail. So anyone doing the Romantic Road, ends their journey in Füssen. And two, because of the historic castles in Hohenschwangau.

Füssen to Hohenschwangau is about 10 mins bus ride away.

It was in Hohenschwangau that King Ludwig decided to build a castle the world had never seen before – the castle of Neuschwanstein, though it’s a different thing that the construction of the castle was never completed.

Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle derived its inspiration from Neuschwanstein.

What To See & Do In Füssen

• Exploring the old town of Altstadt for a blend of brightly coloured buildings, many of which are adorned with frescoes.
• Eating some traditional Bavarian food in Altstadt. I can totally recommend a cake at Konditorei Kurcafe.
• Visiting the high castles in Hohenschwangau.

Day 4: Füssen To Munich

Since you’re moving too fast, doing one city in a day, it’s time to slow down and spend the rest of your time in Munich. Munich is moreover massive and needs at least two or three days to explore. I spent 4 days in Munich in total but I suggest you a 3-day itinerary to you. Anything less than 3 days would be totally unfair to the city.

The best and cheapest way to get to Munich from Füssen is by Flixbus which can cost around 15 EUR. It takes about 2 hours from Fussen to Munich.

Day 5, 6: Munich

Now, speaking of Munich, one thing that I liked the most about this city was that beer was considered food in Munich. There are more than 60 beer gardens in the city in total,  and it’s not tough to see why. Everyone’s just really into drinking beer all day. It’s further worth appreciating the fact that in Munich, no one frown upon on you or considers you a drunkard even if found holding a beer in one hand and drinking from the other in a subway or a metro.

In short, Munich is vibrant, fun, laid-back and hip.

Speaking of the activities, there is enough to see and do in Munich. From renting romantic Vespas to walking tours, pub crawls to thrill-seeking activities, exploring old towns to doing nothing but gulping beer all day.

Here’s a detailed 3-day travel guide on Munich  that I’ve already covered in another article.

I also suggest visiting Gunzburg and trying tandem skydiving as a day trip from Munich. The town of Augsburg is also worth exploring if you want to add another destination to your Bavaria itinerary.

• Additionally, I advise car hire in Munich or renting a Vespa/scooter perhaps (if you’re short with the budget) to make your travel more fun in Munich. Though public transport is certainly easily available, having your own vehicle will give you more flexibility to wander around the city and see more things in lesser time. And with enough parking spaces and traffic not being much of a problem (beyond the peak hours of course), it is not a headache to have your own vehicle.

1 Week Bavaria Itinerary: Cost

Since Bavaria is the most expensive destination in Germany, having a budget trip is quite impossible, unless you’re stern about saving every penny and not enjoying the holiday.

For a 6-day/7-night itinerary, as I suggested above, consider spending at least 900 EUR. And if you decided to do any day tours, partook in any adventure activity like skydiving or hire a scooter or a car, the cost will likely go much higher up. This is the classification of costs if you’re only backpacking between the destinations and not doing anything fancy:

• Transportation: 200 EUR
• Food: 200 EUR (about EUR 30 per day)
• Drinks: 70 EUR (about EUR 10 per day)
• Accommodation: EUR 450 for a private room in a budget hotel (about 65 per night)  | EUR 250 for a dorm bed (about 35 per night)

In a region often regarded as the highlight of Germany, there are countless things to see and do. One could fill weeks exploring Bavaria’s many towns and still not see it all. Though impossible to condense a great beautiful region into six days, this Bavaria travel guide will help you experience the most Bavaria has to offer in a short period of time!

And if you’ve any other tips/ideas/suggestions, please spill them in the comments below!

In my trip to Germany visit Munich, and the black forest visiting the medieval cranes that are still standing. Amazing places and landscapes. The very good toll free highways

Well written article and beautiful photographs… I have traveled to Germany once ( Heidelberg & Cologne) however I found German people not very welcoming compared to other countries in Europe

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Rolling valleys, romantic castles, biergartens and the capital city of Munich, all in the region of Bavaria.

With rolling valleys, timbered villages, romantic castles, cobblestone streets and brightly painted buildings, Bavaria looks like something out of a storybook. Bavarians are fiercely proud of their culture and identity, which they consider separate from the rest of Germany. The region never consented to becoming part of the Federal Republic of Germany when Ludwig II abolished the monarchy following World War I, so Bavaria’s official name is the Free State of Bavaria.

Bavaria is the largest region in Germany and our specialists have seen it all. Whether you want to explore the castle that inspired Disney’s distinguished castle logo, drink away an afternoon at a biergarten or visit a walled medieval city, they can guide you in the right direction and help you plan a trip around your interests.

You can explore the well-preserved medieval castle of Harburg and take in the German countryside as you ride the Romantic Road. You might head to the Bavarian capital of Munich, a former Nazi stronghold, and take a World War II walking tour. Observe the architecture of Nuremberg, a mix of buildings ranging from medieval and modern. Or, if you enjoy hiking, the Bavarian Alps provide plenty of paths for you to explore.

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Places to visit in Bavaria

Featuring heavily on our experiences of visiting Bavaria, these selected places are destinations that also prove consistently popular with our travellers. Our specialists can help you choose how to include them in your wider trip, based on your preferences.

Neuschwanstein

Start planning your trip to Bavaria

Map of bavaria, places & hotels on the map, places in and around bavaria.

• Munich Bavaria
• Neuschwanstein Bavaria
• Nuremberg Bavaria
• Rothenburg Bavaria
• Heidelberg 138 miles away
• The Black Forest 156 miles away
• Baden-Baden 157 miles away
• Frankfurt 158 miles away
• Titisee 167 miles away
• Freiburg 177 miles away
• Dresden 185 miles away
• Oberwesel 194 miles away
• The Rhine Valley 207 miles away
• Cologne 252 miles away
• Berlin 267 miles away

Photos of Bavaria

Accommodation choices for Bavaria

We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Bavaria. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.

Melter Hotel

The Charles Hotel

Bayerischer Hof

Louis Hotel

Hotel Excelsior

Discovering Deutschland: The Best Places to Visit in Germany

I f you've ever dreamed of exploring grand castles, basking in rich culture and history, or indulging in some of the world's best beer, Germany is the place to be . With a myriad of breathtaking landscapes, bustling cities, and quaint towns, it's a place where old-world charm meets modern elegance.

• Germany, Europe's second most visited country, has a unique blend of historical wonders and modern innovation.
• The country is renowned for iconic sites such as Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.
• From the lively atmosphere of Berlin to the romantic landscapes of the Rhine Valley, Germany offers a varied travel experience.

Beholding the Magnificence of Berlin

Berlin, the country's capital, is a city of rich history and vibrant life. Don't miss the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall's remnants, a stark reminder of the city's turbulent past. Meanwhile, the Museum Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site housing five world-renowned museums. It's truly a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts.

Bavaria: Castles, Beer, and Beautiful Landscapes

Bavaria is Germany's picture-perfect region. Here, you'll find the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, perched atop a rugged hill, overlooking the serene Hohenschwangau valley. Bavaria is also home to Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival. A journey along the Romantic Road is a must-do, showcasing medieval towns and pristine countryside.

The Romantic Rhine Valley

The Rhine Valley, with its steep vineyards, ancient castles, and charming towns, is postcard-perfect. A river cruise on the Rhine is the best way to soak in the beauty of this region. Don't forget to sample the local Riesling wine!

Heidelberg: A Blend of Romance and Academia

Heidelberg is a quintessential university town, renowned for its baroque architecture and romantic setting. The Heidelberg Castle, overlooking the Old Town and the Neckar River, is a sight to behold. Wander around the Old Town, with its narrow lanes and historic buildings, for a leisurely day.

Maritime Charm of Hamburg

Hamburg, Germany's gateway to the world, is a city of canals, bridges, and elaborate buildings. The Elbphilharmonie, a stunning concert hall, and the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district are among the must-see sites in the city.

Germany, with its mesmerizing blend of old and new, is sure to leave you enchanted. As American travel writer Rick Steves says, ""Germany is a beautiful combination of deep history and modern innovation, offering visitors a chance to explore ancient castles, picturesque villages , and bustling cities."" Pack your bags, and let Germany weave its magic on you!

Black Forest: Germany's Enchanted Woodland

For nature enthusiasts, the Black Forest is a paradise. The region offers some of the best hiking trails in Germany, winding through dark fir forests, serene lakes, and charming villages. Don't miss the chance to visit the Triberg Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Germany, or the quaint town of Baden-Baden, famous for its thermal spas.

Leipzig: City of Music and Art

Leipzig, often known as 'the new Berlin', is a buzzing city with a thriving arts scene. It's famed for its musical heritage - as the city where Johann Sebastian Bach spent a large part of his life and where Felix Mendelssohn established Germany's first musical conservatoire. The city is also home to Spinnerei, a former cotton mill turned art hub, where artists create, exhibit, and sell their works.

Nuremberg: Stepping Back in Time

Nuremberg, a city steeped in history, offers a fascinating glimpse into Germany's past. Visit the Nuremberg Castle, a symbol of the city, and explore the Old Town with its half-timbered houses and gothic churches. The Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a museum on the site of former Nazi party rallies, provides insight into one of the darkest times in human history.

Frankfurt: The Manhattan of Germany

Frankfurt, known for its impressive skyline, is a bustling metropolis with a lot to offer. The city is the financial heart of Germany, hosting the European Central Bank. Don't miss the Palmengarten, a beautiful botanical garden, or the Städel Museum, one of Germany's preeminent art institutions. And for a taste of traditional Frankfurt, visit the cider taverns in the Sachsenhausen district.

German Cuisine: Beyond Bratwurst and Beer

German cuisine is hearty and diverse, with each region having its specialties. Try bratwurst, a type of German sausage, or pretzels in Bavaria, Sauerbraten (pot roast) in Rhineland, and fresh seafood dishes in the northern regions. Don't forget to taste German beer and wine - with over 1,300 breweries and vineyards along the Mosel and Rhine river, there's plenty to sample!

Kevin Erickson, your experienced travel guide, hopes that this journey through the captivating landscapes, historic landmarks, and unique culture of Germany inspires you to pack your bags and explore the country yourself. Remember, the best travel experiences often come from veering off the beaten path and making your unique journey.

What is the best time to visit Germany?

Germany can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your activities. For sightseeing and city tours, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal, while winter is perfect for Christmas markets and skiing.

What are some must-try foods in Germany?

Bratwurst, pretzels, Sauerbraten, and currywurst are must-try dishes. Don't miss the local beers and wines, and try a piece of Black Forest Gateau in its place of origin!

Is Germany expensive to visit?

Germany is relatively affordable compared to other Western European countries. Costs can vary depending on the region and the type of travel experience you prefer.

Do I need to know German to travel in Germany?

While it's always helpful to know a few phrases in the local language, English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas in Germany.

What are some local customs I should be aware of?

Germans value punctuality, so be on time for any appointments. When eating, it's polite to say 'Guten Appetit' before starting. Always use formal addresses ('Sie' in German) unless invited to use the informal 'du'.

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We have one day to cover the Bavarian castles and on my list are :

- Fussen and Neuschwanstein castle,

- Linderhof palace and Town of Oberammergau,

- Town of Mittenwald

We will be based in Zirl so thats quite a lot to drive around in a day as a round trip.

I am looking for suggestions on which ones to keep and which to save for the next trip.

4 replies to this topic

Where are you coming from, where are you going to?

How many nights will you be based in Zirl?

With an early start you could probably tick off all the places in a day but 3-4 castles and 3 towns is too tiring imho. If I was you I'd spent the better part of the day touring Neuschwanstein, neighboring Hohenschwangau and in the lovely town of Füssen. There is an authentic late-gothic castle in Füssen also, Hohes Schloss. Another daytrip could be the loop via Linderhof Palace, Ettal Abbey, Oberammergau and Mittenwald. Mittenwald alone would als well be worth a sidetrip from Zirl. It's just about 30 minutes away.

But I also wanted to stop and breathe and not run around - so I know Neuschwanstein is more popular than Linderhof - but then I wanted to see at least one of the painted house towns. Also my daughter plays violin so Mittenwald was going to be special.

Is it a bad idea to do Neuschwanstein if we do not plan to go inside?

Neuschwanstein is not at all impressive from the inside. Only a handful of rooms are finished. Linderhof is by far more interesting imo. You wouldn't do anything wrong if you went the Mittenwald - Linderhof - route and had some time to breath and actually enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

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Germany travel guide: Discover the rich culture of Deutschland

Explore germany for its rich culture, historic architecture and fairytale landscapes.

Germany is home to Europe's largest 3D-printed building

The Wave House, a new data center, is located in an urban area of Heidelberg.

Germany is one of the most visited countries in the world, attracting travelers from far and wide with its thousands of years of history, rich culture and picturesque landscapes.

More than 183 million tourists visited the European country in 2023, according to the Statista Research Department.

From the natural beauty of Bavaria to the urban streets of Berlin, Germany offers an abundance of experiences for every kind of traveler.

'MARCH BEER' ONCE LUBRICATED MUNICH'S FAMOUS FALL FEST, NOW FOUND YEAR-ROUND ONLY IN US

Oktoberfest is a globally popular event that first started in Germany.

Travel requirements

Prior to purchasing your flight, it’s important to know Germany's visa requirements, which differ depending on where you are traveling from.

Visitors from more than 60 countries – including the U.S. and Canada – need not apply for a tourist visa for trips less than 90 days.

To visit Germany for short trips, U.S. citizens only need a U.S. passport that is valid for more than three months beyond the date of their departure. However, visitors from many other countries – including South Africa and India – will need to apply for a tourist visa for short trips.

5,600,000 LITERS OF BEER WERE CONSUMED AT OKTOBERFEST IN 2022, BUT WHAT ABOUT 2023?

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is Germany’s most visited castle, with 1,300,000 people crossing its gate each year.

Located in the Alps in Bavaria, the castle overlooks the Hohenschwangau valley and is close to the popular tourist town of Fussen. Built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, this fairytale-esque castle has been referred to as the inspiration for the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.

It is recommended to purchase tickets for a guided tour online in advance as they can sell out quickly.

Neuschwanstein Castle is Germany’s most visited castle, with 1,300,000 people crossing its gate each year. (Christof Stache/AFP via Getty Images)

Berlin Wall

The Berlin Wall , which divided the city from 1961 until 1989, stands as a symbol of the Cold War era when Berlin was separated into eastern and western parts.

The East Side Gallery is the longest remaining section of the wall, and in 1990, more than 100 artists decorated this portion with art, making it today the longest open-air art gallery in the world, according to Visit Berlin.

GERMANY, ALLIES CELEBRATE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BERLIN WALL FALL

Brandenburg Gate

Brandenburg Gate, located in the heart of Berlin, is one of the best-known landmarks in Germany.

The historic site has become a symbol of Berlin’s division and, later, its reunification following the Cold War. Built between 1788 and 1791, the monument stands more than 80 feet tall and was inspired by parts of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, according to the Visit Berlin website.

Cologne Cathedral

Cologne Cathedral, located in Cologne, is one of the largest Gothic-style cathedrals in the world and attracts around 20,000 visitors every day, according to the Visit Cologne website.

The cathedral, which belongs to the Catholic Church and stands more than 500 feet tall, began construction in 1248 and took more than seven centuries to build.

When planning a visit, travelers should only bring small bags and be prepared for identity checks, according to the website for Cologne Cathedral.

A view of Cologne Cathedral in April 2023 in Cologne, Germany. (Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images)

Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest, the largest Volksfest in the world, is held annually between September and October in Munich and usually lasts about 16–18 days.

Attracting more than 6 million visitors each year, the celebration features a beer festival with tents representing different breweries, a carnival, music, parades and more. It is a good idea to arrive early to the event as it draws large crowds, and remember to drink responsibly. Prost!

Europa-Park

For visitors looking for an adrenaline rush, family-owned Europa-Park is Germany’s largest theme park and attracts more than 5 million visitors every season. 

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Located in Rust, Baden-Württemberg, Europa-Park has something for everyone with 100 different attractions, 14 roller coasters, 17 European and three fantasy-themed areas, six hotels and more than 50 themed restaurants and bars.

Sophia Compton is a Digital Production Assistant at Fox News Digital. Sophia was previously a business reporter covering finance, energy and tourism and has experience as a TV news producer. She graduated with a journalism degree in 2021 from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

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[Travel time to memory clinics in Bavaria: A geographical analyses within the framework of digiDEM Bayern]

Affiliations.

• 1 Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Interdisziplinäres Zentrum für Health Technology Assessment (HTA) und Public Health (IZPH), Erlangen, Germany.
• 2 Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Institut für Geographie, Erlangen, Germany.
• 3 Zentrum für Medizinische Versorgungsforschung, Psychiatrische und Psychotherapeutische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany.
• PMID: 38579731
• PMCID: PMC11003252
• DOI: 10.1055/a-2233-6168

Abstract in English, German

Background: Memory clinics can contribute significantly to a qualified diagnosis of dementia. Since the accessibility of medical facilities is an important predictor for their utilisation, the aim of this study was to determine the accessibility of memory clinics for persons with dementia in Bavaria.

Methods: We used a Geographic Information System (GIS) to determine travel times to the nearest memory clinic for all Bavarian municipalities based on OpenStreetMap road network data.

Results: The majority of the modelled persons with dementia in Bavaria (40%; n = 93,950) live in communities with an average travel time of 20 to 40 minutes to the nearest memory clinic. Almost 7,000 (3%) require more than one hour. Especially persons from rural communities have to travel significantly longer distances than people from urban areas.

Conclusion: In view of demographic developments, there is an urgent need for memory clinics to be accessible throughout the country for all persons with dementia, regardless of where they live. The systematic development of memory clinics in areas with long travel times or the establishment of mobile diagnostic services could help to improve dementia care.

Hintergrund: Gedächtnisambulanzen können maßgeblich zu einer qualifizierten Demenzdiagnostik beitragen. Da die Erreichbarkeit medizinischer Einrichtungen ein wichtiger Prädiktor für deren Inanspruchnahme ist, war es Ziel dieser Arbeit, die Erreichbarkeit von Gedächtnisambulanzen für Menschen mit Demenz in Bayern zu ermitteln.

Methodik: Mit Hilfe eines Geographischen Informationssystem (GIS) wurden anhand von OpenStreetMap Straßennetzdaten die Reisezeiten von allen bayerischen Gemeinden zur jeweils nächstgelegenen Gedächtnisambulanz bestimmt.

Ergebnisse: Die Mehrheit der modellierten Anzahl an Menschen mit Demenz in Bayern (40%; n = 93.950) lebt in Gemeinden mit einer durchschnittlichen Fahrtzeit von 20 bis 40 Minuten bis zur nächstgelegenen Gedächtnisambulanz. Knapp 7.000 (3%) benötigen mehr als eine Stunde. Besonders Personen aus ländlichen Gemeinden müssen deutlich längere Fahrtzeiten zurücklegen, als Menschen aus städtischen Gebieten.

Schlussfolgerung: Eine flächendeckend gute Erreichbarkeit von Gedächtnisambulanzen für alle Menschen mit Demenz, unabhängig von ihrem Wohnort ist angesichts der demographischen Entwicklungen dringend geboten. Der gezielte Ausbau von Gedächtnisambulanzen in Gebieten mit langen Fahrtzeiten oder die Bereitstellung von mobilen Diagnostikangeboten könnte dazu beitragen die Versorgungssituation zu verbessern.

The Author(s). This is an open access article published by Thieme under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonDerivative-NonCommercial-License, permitting copying and reproduction so long as the original work is given appropriate credit. Contents may not be used for commercial purposes, or adapted, remixed, transformed or built upon. (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Publication types

• English Abstract
• Ambulatory Care Facilities
• Dementia* / diagnosis
• Dementia* / epidemiology
• Geographic Information Systems
• Germany / epidemiology
• Health Services Accessibility

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What Happened When a German Car Factory Went All Electric

Volkswagen’s plant in Zwickau stopped producing Golfs and switched to electric vehicles, illuminating the risks and opportunities for factory towns and cities.

The Volkswagen factory in Zwickau, Germany, which makes six electric car models. Credit... Ingmar Nolting for The New York Times

Supported by

By Jack Ewing

Jack Ewing, who lived in and reported from Germany for 28 years, reported from Zwickau in the former East Germany.

• April 9, 2024

Zwickau, a city in Germany’s east, may not be as famous as Detroit, but its economy has revolved around internal combustion engines since August Horch established Audi here at the beginning of the 20th century.

So when Volkswagen announced in 2018 that it would convert its Zwickau factory, the largest private employer in the area, to manufacture nothing but electric vehicles, it was a big deal.

“A lot of people were skeptical,” said Michael Fuchs, who has worked at the factory for more than a quarter century. They wondered, “What’s going to happen?” he said.

Volkswagen shut down assembly lines churning out its popular Golf hatchbacks and converted the factory, which has its own exit on the autobahn, to make six electric models. The remodeled plant can produce a car a minute, shipping them out by train.

It was a rare case of a major car plant’s switching completely from internal combustion to battery power, making Zwickau a case study for a big question confronting the auto industry.

Electric vehicles have far fewer parts than gasoline cars — no radiators, exhaust pipes, fuel tanks, fan belts or complicated gearboxes. As a result, many autoworkers, executives and politicians have hypothesized that such cars would require fewer workers, leading to mass unemployment in factory towns and cities worldwide.

Zwickau, where more than 10,000 people work for Volkswagen and tens of thousands more for suppliers, appears to have avoided those dire consequences. Employment hasn’t fallen off a cliff, and suppliers of combustion vehicle parts haven’t been forced into bankruptcy en masse. Its experience offers some hopeful lessons for other places that depend on the auto industry.

Yet people in Zwickau, with its immaculate but sleepy downtown, are still uneasy.

While Zwickau’s experience suggests that conversion to electric vehicles will not itself lead to economic misery, this and other new technologies are shaking up the industry in ways that could still be very painful for established companies and their workers.

One big change already visible in Germany and the rest of Europe is the fast growth of young Chinese electric carmakers like BYD and SAIC , which are increasingly luring customers away from established rivals like Volkswagen, the world’s second-largest automaker after Toyota.

“The question is: How much will mobility change overall?” said Thomas Knabel, who leads the Zwickau local of IG Metall, the union that represents Volkswagen workers. “In the future, will Volkswagen still be present?”

The best-selling electric car in Europe is Tesla’s Model Y sport utility vehicle, built at a factory around 145 miles north of Zwickau near Berlin. Last year, Volkswagen sold fewer than half as many of its equivalent S.U.V., the ID.4, according to Schmidt Automotive Research.

Disappointing sales have prompted Volkswagen to cut a shift on one of its two assembly lines in Zwickau, where the company makes the ID.4, the ID.5, two Audi models and two small electric cars. The decision illustrated the downside of going all-in on electric vehicles. Other established carmakers have hedged their bets, producing electric vehicles and fuel-burning cars in the same factories , allowing them to adjust to fluctuating sales.

“It’s a much more ambitious project than anything I know about in North America,” said Ian Greer, a research professor at Cornell University who has studied the region around Zwickau. “VW has taken a much bigger risk.”

With the factory operating below capacity, some people in Zwickau wonder whether Volkswagen’s electric vehicles are appealing enough.

Max Jankowsky, president of the regional Chamber of Commerce, said he was disappointed that he hadn’t seen any Volkswagens during a recent trip to Dubai. “It was just Teslas, Teslas, Teslas,” said Mr. Jankowsky, who is also the president of a company that makes cast iron parts for Volkswagen suppliers and other manufacturers.

Volkswagen’s executives say they expect sales to pick up this year as it begins selling new models, including a station wagon and a van, targeting market segments that Tesla does not play in.

“We are aware of our current challenges and are tackling them rigorously,” Oliver Blume, the Volkswagen chief executive, said last month in a statement.

In the short term, at least, the pain to the local economy caused by the Zwickau factory’s conversion was surprisingly mild, local officials, business leaders and worker representatives say.

Increased demand for workers to manufacture electronic components largely compensated for job losses from production lines that made parts for combustion cars, according to a study by AMZ Saxony, a suppliers’ group.

“All in all,” said Dirk Vogel, chief executive of AMZ, “not that much happened.”

Volkswagen, local businesses and officials coordinated an effort to prepare workers and businesses, blunting the impact.

The carmaker expanded its training institute in Zwickau to teach employees about electric vehicle technology. To generate enthusiasm, Volkswagen allowed workers to borrow battery-powered cars for a few days. The West Saxon University of Applied Sciences in Zwickau, a state college that already had a strong focus on the auto industry, expanded courses related to electric vehicle technology.

Suppliers developed new components for electric vehicles to replace products in danger of becoming obsolete. Eberspächer, a German supplier that has a factory 60 miles east of Zwickau, near Dresden, began offering temperature-control systems for electric vehicles in addition to emission systems for conventional cars.

A few suppliers have suffered. GKN Driveline, which makes drive shafts not needed in most electric cars, is closing a factory in Zwickau and shifting production to Hungary. But GKN did not supply Volkswagen, and the closure appears to be a reaction to broader trends in the industry and German labor costs. GKN did not reply to requests for comment.

New technology has also created jobs, including 175 at FDTech, based in the nearby city, Chemnitz. The firm, partly owned by Volkswagen, is one of five companies in the area developing autonomous driving technology.

Zwickau benefits from some unique good fortune. Many local suppliers make seats, dashboards, painting equipment or other products that electric vehicles need just as much as gasoline cars.

Because of a shortage of electricians, engineers and other skilled workers, the unemployment rate in the state of Saxony, which includes Zwickau, has increased only modestly. It was 6.6 percent in March amid an overall economic slowdown, up from 6.3 percent a year earlier.

“There will be suppliers that disappear,” said Karsten Schulze, the managing director of FDTech. “But the skilled workers will be immediately sought after elsewhere.”

Volkswagen workers had some control because German law requires them to be consulted on changes that affect working conditions. The IG Metall union extracted a promise from the company not to lay off any full-time employees in Zwickau until 2030 at the earliest. The guarantee does not apply to temporary workers, however, and the company let 270 of them go after their contracts expired.

In the United States, unions are relatively strong in the Midwest and East, but most automobile factories in the South are not unionized. The United Automobile Workers is trying to change that. But even if the union is successful, U.S. companies will have no obligation to consult workers about changes that will affect their jobs, or to retrain them for new jobs. And there is no guarantee that new jobs making batteries, for example, will pay as well as jobs in factories where cars are assembled.

Residents note with pride that Zwickau has survived many upheavals. After Germany’s defeat in World War II, Soviet occupiers confiscated Audi’s manufacturing equipment. The carmaker moved to Bavaria and was later acquired by Volkswagen.

The Communist government that ruled East Germany converted the Zwickau factory to produce no-frills Trabant vehicles. The cars spewed blue exhaust and had a body made of plastic because of steel shortages. They could not compete with Western cars after the reunification of Germany in 1991. Thousands of Trabant workers lost their jobs. By the end of the 1990s, unemployment in the region exceeded 20 percent.

Volkswagen acquired the Zwickau factory after reunification and gradually expanded it into one of the company’s biggest production sites. The conversion to electric cars was momentous enough that Angela Merkel, the German chancellor at the time, attended a dedication ceremony in 2019, when the first battery-powered model rolled off the assembly line.

Not everyone in Zwickau is a fan of electric cars. The far-right Alternative for Deutschland party, which has 11 of 48 seats in the Zwickau City Council, has complained that Germans are being forced to buy electric vehicles, echoing comments from former President Donald J. Trump and other Republicans.

The national government, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, a Social Democrat, angered many in Zwickau when it abruptly slashed subsidies for electric vehicles last year to deal with a budget crisis. Sales of electric vehicles in Germany slumped 14 percent during the first three months of the year, though they still accounted for 12 percent of new cars.

Still, few people in Zwickau are pushing for Volkswagen to go back to building gasoline cars.

“With a transition to a new technology, the question is always: Are you the first or the last?” said Constance Arndt, the lord mayor of Zwickau. “I think it’s always better to be first.”

Jack Ewing writes about the auto industry with an emphasis on electric vehicles. More about Jack Ewing

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