bavaria germany places to visit

17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bavaria

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Apr 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Bavaria, Germany's largest state, lies in the southeast corner of the country and is bordered by Austria and the Czech Republic. One of Germany's most popular tourist destinations , Bavaria is filled with attractions and things to do and offers some of the country's most beautiful scenery, including spectacular mountain peaks, rolling hills, and lovely lakes.

Alpine peaks mark Bavaria's southern border with Austria, and the Danube River winds scenically through its center. Sightseeing is not the only attraction of Germany's largest state: outdoor enthusiasts will find mountain trails to hike, riverside paths to cycle, and superb skiing . Some of the most beautiful towns in Germany are in Bavaria, and the entire area is steeped in history.

The Danube winds scenically through its center. Some of the most beautiful towns in Germany are in Bavaria, and the entire area is steeped in history.

Although Bavaria is one of the most traditional parts of Germany and is filled with romantic castles, grand imperial palaces, and endearing old-world customs, you'll find a lot more variety among its attractions, including a lively contemporary art scene, cutting-edge architecture and design, and state-of-the-art interactive museums.

You could easily spend an entire vacation here. Find the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Bavaria.

1. Neuschwanstein

2. watch the glockenspiel in marienplatz, munich, 3. explore zugspitze and the bavarian alps, 4. nymphenburg and the residenz, munich's royal palaces, 5. tour nürnberg castle and altstadt (old town), 6. relax in the englischer garten (english garden), munich, 7. rothenburg and the romantic road, 8. visit linderhof palace, 9. königssee and kehlsteinhaus (eagle's nest), 10. dachau concentration camp memorial, 11. take a boat to herrenchiemsee, 12. imperial regensburg, 13. bamberg cathedral, 14. hike through the partnach gorge, 15. passau and the danube, 16. art museums in munich's kunstareal district, 17. cruise through the danube gorge from weltenburg abbey, map of attractions & things to do in bavaria.

Perhaps "Mad" King Ludwig II was eccentric in his choice of a fairy-tale-inspired neo-Romanesque style for his castle, but his choice of setting was pure genius. The spires and towers rise from a rocky crag above a forest and lake, with a panorama of the Bavarian Alps rising beyond.

Widely recognized as the inspiration for Walt Disney's theme park castles, Schloss Neuschwanstein is every bit as fantastical inside as it is when first viewed from below. The Throne Room, the Singers' Hall, and other grandiose rooms are sumptuously decorated (some might say over-decorated) in themes drawn from heroic legends, opera, and romantic literature. The views of the Alps from the windows are simply breathtaking.

On a facing crag is another castle of the imperial Wittlebach family, Hohenschwangau . Not far away is the king's hunting lodge, Linderhof , an equally fanciful architectural confection. You can combine tours of both King Ludwig's palaces with a stop in the beautiful Bavarian village of Oberammergau on a 10.5-hour Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Day Tour from Munich .

Address: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, Schwangau

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is the third largest city in the country and home to many of Germany's top tourist attractions . On the River Isar, along the fringes of the Bavarian Alps, it's one of the best places from which to explore Bavaria. A good place to start is Marienplatz , the city's large central square, one entire side of which is formed by the magnificent neo-Gothic facade of the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall).

The glockenspiel, a huge clock animated with moving figures, performs every morning at 11am and at 5pm March through October, always drawing a crowd. One end of the immense square is formed by the stair-stepped façade of the Old Town Hall, and behind the other end of the square rises the distinctive twin-domed towers of the Frauenkirche , the Cathedral of our Lady.

A few steps from Marienplatz are two more of the city's most important churches: Peterskirche , built during the Romanesque period, and Michaelskirche , the largest Renaissance church north of the Alps. Marienplatz is the center for many of this always-busy city's cultural activities , from regular concerts and festivals to its fabulous Christmas Market .

Bavaria's Zugspitze is part of the Wetterstein Alpine mountain range that spans the frontier between Austria and Germany. Surrounded by steep valleys, its 2,962-meter eastern summit is reached by cable car from Eibsee, or by the Bayerische Zugspitzbahn cog railway, a trip that begins in either Eibsee or in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The cog train takes you to the Zugspitzplatt, from which a short cable car ride reaches the summit.

The mountain, Germany's tallest, is extremely popular among hikers and casual walkers alike, with numerous trails of all levels to choose from (those who want the views without the steep climb can ride up and walk down).

At the Zugspitz-Westgipfel Station is a panoramic restaurant at 2,950 meters. The nearby Schneefernerhaus on the northern edge of the Zugspitzplatt is a popular place for skiers to visit in the winter . The highest skiing area in Germany , it comes alive as winter sports enthusiasts from across Europe arrive for the superb snow and après ski activities.

The Bavarian Alps extend south from Munich to the Austrian frontier and from beautiful Lake Constance in the west to the neighborhood of Salzburg in the east.

Reaching heights of almost 3,000 meters, their beauty enhanced by deep glacier-carved valleys and high plateaus with numerous lakes, the Bavarian Alps offer plenty of things to do. Along with winter sports, there are summer excursions of all kinds: forest walks, waterfalls, easy climbs, and gondola rides to spectacular views.

In the countryside, deep in its valleys, lie some of the most beautiful towns in Bavaria. Especially picturesque are the towns of Garmisch-Partenkirchen , Mittenwald, and Berchtesgaden , with their colorful painted houses and Baroque parish churches.

On a Zugspitze Day Tour from Munich , you can travel through the Bavarian countryside in an air-conditioned vehicle with a guide and take the cable car to the top of Zugspitze, riding back down on the cog railway.

The Munich Residenz , the seat of the dukes, electors, and kings of Bavaria for centuries, is one of Europe's most spectacular palaces. In the summer, the royal family moved to their airy country palace of Nymphenburg, surrounded by magnificent gardens.

The vast in-town Residenz complex encloses seven large courtyards and has three main sections: the late Renaissance Alte Residenz ; the Königsbau ; and the Festsaalbau (Banqueting Hall), overlooking the Hofgarten . The magnificent 16 th -century Antiquarium is now part of the Residenz Museum . Highlights to visit here include the Treasury, the Court Church of All Saints (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche), and Cuvilliés-Theater, along with the old courtyards and the beautiful Court Garden.

There's a much different atmosphere at the later Baroque palace of Nymphenburg , which seems to float above its canal, gardens, and fountain-splashed pools. In the 17 th -century Central Pavilion , built in the style of an Italian villa, you'll find the lavishly decorated three-story Stone Hall (Steinerner Saal) and furnished private chambers.

In the outer buildings, you can visit the Palace Chapel and a collection of state coaches and carriages in the Marstallmuseum . For many, the highlights of Nymphenburg are its magnificent 17th-century gardens, with its formal bed, hedge maze, Palm House, and fountains, and the Amalienburg , a grand hunting lodge featuring a Hall of Mirrors.

Although badly damaged in World War II, Nürnberg's historic Altstadt has been painstakingly restored to its prewar condition. Enclosed by more than four kilometers of walls that date from the 12 th to the 16 th century, the Old Town is dominated by Nuremberg Castle , a 351-meter-tall fortification that's among the most important surviving medieval fortresses in Europe.

Home of German kings and emperors for more than 500 years, Nürnberger Burg contains several historic structures to visit: the 15 th -century imperial stables, the Pentagonal Tower dating from 1040, the 11 th -century Kaiserburg, a 13 th -century chapel, the Well House, and the Sinwell Tower with panoramic views over the steep gabled rooftops of the Old Town. The Imperial Castle Museum displays medieval weapons and armor.

Just beneath the castle is the half-timbered Albrecht Dürer House , a museum dedicated to the artist and his work. Other highlights of the Old Town are the Hauptmarkt , site of Nuremberg's famous Christmas Market (Nürnberg Christkindlesmarkt) and the 14th-century Gothic church of St. Lawrence (St. Lorenz, or Lorenzkirche), with its nine-meter rose window.

Those with an interest in World War II history can join the four-hour Nuremberg Old Town and Nazi Party Rally Grounds Walking Tour , with an experienced local guide, for an in-depth view of the city's long history. You will tour sites from the days of the Holy Roman Empire, the Renaissance, and the Third Reich, with a visit to Nazi Party Rally Grounds.

Address: Auf der Burg 13, Nürnberg

One of the most popular places to go in Munich, for both locals and tourists, the English Garden attracts walkers, joggers, and cyclists with 78 kilometers of pathways and bridle paths, and sunbathers with acres of lawn and riverbanks. A good place to visit for families, the gardens have playgrounds and plenty of places to run.

The Chinesischen Turm (Chinese Tower), a 25-meter-tall pagoda, has a café and is always a hub of activity - especially in December when it hosts one of the city's several Christmas markets.

The park's newest feature is the Japanese Garden , on an island of its own, complete with an authentic teahouse presented to the city in honor of the 1772 Olympics. The park also contains the Bavarian National Museum , with medieval German sculptures and tapestries, and the Bavarian State Archaeological Collection of local prehistoric artifacts.

The three medieval walled towns of Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, and Nördlingen are highlights of the Romantic Road , a driving route that scenically through the rolling countryside of Bavaria and northern Baden-Württemberg. Rothenburg is one of the best-preserved medieval towns anywhere in Europe, its postcard-perfect streets lined by half-timbered houses, and its shops and cafes marked by intricately crafted wrought-iron signs.

Walls enclose the Old Town and seem to hold it from tumbling down into the Tauber River below. It's December all year-round at the town's most famous shop, Käthe Wohlfahrt's Christmas Village, just off the Market Square.

Dinkelsbühl owes its prosperity to the wool trade of the 15th and 16th centuries, when the row of gabled houses on the Weinmarkt was constructed. Look especially for the ornate wooden trim on the Deutsches Haus and for the 16th-century patrician Hezelhof.

Each July, Dinkelsbühl celebrates Kinderzeche, one of Germany's most colorful traditional festivals. The 10.5-hour Romantic Road, Rothenburg, and Harburg Day Tour from Munich follows this picturesque route, stopping at Harburg Castle before arriving in Rothenburg.

Linderhof Palace was King Ludwig II's favorite, and it's easy to see why. Although it glitters with lavish ornamentation, its size and its setting amid cool green forests give it an intimate and livable quality. On a tour, you'll see the Hall of Mirrors , the Audience Chamber that Ludwig used as a study, the two tapestry Chambers, the King's Bedchamber, and the Dining Room. On the required guided tour, you'll hear stories about this eccentric king.

A tour is also required for the Venus Grotto , Ludwig's fantastic man-made cavern, but you can explore the lovely gardens and grounds on your own, where you'll find both landscape and formal gardens, fountains and pools, and the Moorish Pavilion .

Address: Linderhof 12, Ettal

One of the most beautiful spots in Bavaria is the emerald green Königssee, a lake surrounded by steep wooded mountainsides and the rocky cliffs of the Watzmann range. On its shore, the distinctive red domes of the little pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomew reflect in its clear waters. The church dates to 1697, and inside is beautiful stucco work. You can reach it by boat from Schönau, and a footpath leads along the east shore of the lake for superb views of the church and lake from the Malerwinkel .

Nearby Berchtesgaden is one of the most popular resort towns in the Bavarian Alps, surrounded by mountains — the Hoher Göll, Watzmann, Hochkalter, and Untersberg. You can't drive the 6.5-kilometer-long Kehlsteinstrasse, the steep road to the infamous symbol of power of the Nazi regime known as the Eagle's Nest .

Instead, you can ride the gleaming brass elevator through the mountain; like the mountaintop Kehlsteinhaus itself, it was built to impress. In fact, Hitler was rarely there, and today it has only a few original features, but it's still a grim reminder of the horrors of that era of unbridled power. Inside is a restaurant with panoramic views of the Alps.

Before World War II and the Nazi era, the little town of Dachau was known for its castle and as a plein air artists' colony. Today, the attractive town's name is almost synonymous with the Holocaust, as the site of the notorious Dachau concentration camp , where 41,000 people died during the Nazi regime.

The KZ-Gedenkstätte Dachau is now a somber memorial to those victims and to countless others like them. Barracks and cells have been reconstructed, and the stories of its prisoners are told through photographs, personal accounts, artifacts, and documents. Guided tours in English are offered daily, or you can visit with a knowledgeable guide to interpret the site, on a Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour from Munich by Train .

Address: Pater-Roth-Str. 2a, Dachau

King Ludwig II of Bavaria chose an island in Chiemsee, Bavaria's largest lake, as the site of his third and largest palace, Herrenchiemsee . He envisioned it as a rival to Versailles in its grandeur and splendor, even to the Hall of Mirrors , but it was only partially completed when he was drowned near Neuschwanstein, at the age of 40.

Much of the palace had been completed as he envisioned it, including the Hall of Mirrors; State Staircase; State Bedroom; and Ludwig's Small Apartment, decorated sumptuously in the Rococo style. The King Ludwig II Museum displays artifacts and furnishings connected to his life, and the surrounding gardens, also patterned after Versailles, are decorated with fountains and statues. You can reach the island by boat from Prien or Stock. Guided tours of the palace, the only way you can see it, are available in English.

On the smaller Frauenchiemsee island is a monastery founded in the 8 th century and extended in the 12 th and 13 th centuries. Parts of the original remain, and the present church dates at least from the 11 th century. That island is the scene of a charming Christmas market each December, featuring fine handmade gifts and decorations.

The old imperial city of Regensburg lies at the most northerly point of the Danube, joined here by the River Regen and navigable all the way to the Black Sea. The town's medieval Old Town, made up of churches and aristocratic homes from the 13th and 14th centuries, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Crossing the Danube, the 310-meter-long Stone Bridge , was built in the 12th century and is a masterpiece of medieval engineering,

The 13th-century Cathedral of St. Peter in Domplatz, the city's central square, is considered to be the finest Gothic church in Bavaria, with a magnificent west front and delicate twin spires marking the city's skyline at 105 meters high. Highlights of the interior are the superb 14th-century stained glass and the figures of the Annunciation from 1280.

Romanesque All Saints Chapel , off the beautiful 14th-century cloister, features wall paintings, and St. Stephen's Chapel predates the cathedral, dating back to AD 800. The cathedral is known for its boys' choir, the Domspatzen, one of Europe's finest.

Bamberg Cathedral — affectionately referred to by locals as Domberg — lies high atop a hill overlooking one of Bavaria's most picturesque small cities. This four-towered masterpiece of early 13th-century ecclesiastical architecture includes the Fürstentor (Prince's Doorway), with its figures of apostles and prophets, and a relief of the Last Judgment.

Be sure to see the Adamspforte (Adam's Doorway) along with the Marienpforte (Virgin's Doorway). Inside is the tomb of Henry II, who died in 1024, along with that of his wife Kunigunde.

The cathedral's best-known feature is the famous Bamberger Reiter , or the Bamberg Horseman, erected in 1240. The identity of the figure pictured is something of a mystery. Various theories include Emperor Henry II; King Stephen of Hungary (Henry II's brother-in-law); and Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II, a major patron in rebuilding the cathedral. The Diocesan Museum displays the cathedral treasury with vestments and Henry II's imperial robes.

Other places to visit in Bamberg's Old Town are the Altes Rathaus (Old City Hall), which now houses a porcelain museum, and the Altenburg , a 12th-century castle crowning the tallest of the city's seven hills.

Address: Domplatz 5, Bamberg

One of Bavaria's most dramatic natural wonders, the Partnach Gorge is a narrow crevasse cut into the solid rock by the Partnach River in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Its formation began millions of years ago, and over the millennia meltwater and the debris from the Schneeferner Glacier on the Zugspitz plateau, carried by the rushing river, scoured the gorge to its current depth of 263 feet (80 meters).

Two trails, one of them right along the river's edge, take you beneath the vertical rock walls, past waterfalls, cascades, rushing rapids, and pools. The lower trail is the easiest; the upper one goes through tunnels less than six feet in height as it traverses the 699-meter (2,293-foot) gorge.

Those with a head for heights can climb the steep steps to view the gorge from the iron suspension bridge, which spans the forested summit 70 meters (225 feet) above the river. You can also take a torchlight tour of the gorge at night.

The gorge is open year-round, and is spectacular in the winter, when the walls become giant curtains of icicles. The Partnach Gorge is also the gateway to several hiking trails. To get to the gorge, follow the signs from the Olympic Stadium in Garmisch-Partenkirchen; it is a 25-minute walk.

Read More: Best Hikes in Europe

Passau lies on the Austrian frontier at the junction of the Danube and the River Inn and is famous for its flat-roofed, 17th-century, Italian-style houses linked by flying buttresses. Other highlights of the Old Town , widely regarded as one of the most picture-perfect townscapes in Europe, include the Oberhaus fortress , the Mariahilf church , and the charming stepped lanes leading down to the two rivers.

In the Domplatz, surrounded by old canons' houses, stands the Cathedral of St. Stephen , known for its massive organ, the largest church organ in Europe and the second largest in the world. The cathedral's Late Gothic east end dates from 1407 and the superb Baroque nave was added in 1678. Also of interest is Residenzplatz, with its old homes, and the New Bishop's Palace (Neue Residenz) built in 1772, home to the Cathedral Treasury and the Diocesan Museum .

The most fascinating museum, especially for visitors who admire fine glasswork or Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) design, is the Glasmuseum Passau , which displays the world's largest collection of Bohemian glass. The collection, which represents work from 1650 to 1950, features more than 1,000 Loetz pieces, including those shown at the 1900 Paris Exposition.

Passau is the starting point for Danube River cruises , both short day excursions and longer trips to Vienna , Budapest , and the Black Sea.

The art district around the Neoclassical Königsplatz features one of the finest groups of art museums anywhere in Europe . The three Pinakothek art galleries cover Europe's major art movements and styles. In the Old Picture Gallery (Alte Pinakothek) are the Dutch and Flemish masters and outstanding Italian, German, French, Spanish, and medieval paintings.

The New Picture Gallery (Neue Pinakothek), picks up with works ranging from the Rococo to Art Nouveau periods (note that this building is currently undergoing a major renovation, and highlights of its collections are temporarily exhibited in galleries on the ground floor of the Alte Pinakothek).

The State Gallery of Modern Art (Pinakothek der Moderne) houses an exceptional collection of more than 20,000 works after 1900 covering the Bauhaus, Cubism, Futurism, the Fauves, and other important avant-garde movements, with works by Picasso, Warhol, Magritte, and Dalí. The Glyptothek and the State Antiquities Collection (Staatliche Antikensammlung) reach further back into ancient sculptures and classical art.

The sixth and newest of this remarkable ensemble of art museums is Lenbachhaus , the Italianate villa of artist Franz von Lenbach, which, with its new extension, houses the world's finest collection of works by the Blauer Reiter (Blue Rider), a group of European Expressionist painters led by Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc.

Address: Königsplatz, München

Carved about 200,000 years ago when a branch of the Danube wore through the limestone and changed the course of the river, the Danube Gorge is a five-kilometer ravine with rock walls as high as 70 meters.

One of the most beautiful spots along the Danube, the gorge is best experienced on a cruise. You can board a boat (be sure you get one with a return sailing) from the dock at Weltenburg Abbey. This formidable monastery sits beside a deep bend in the Danube and is believed to be the oldest in Europe, dating back to 620.

Be sure to see the Baroque abbey church, built and decorated by brothers Cosmas and Egid Asam, who were to later build the famous Rococo Asamkirche in Munich. Its architecture and decorative stucco work and frescoes make it one of the most important works of Baroque art in Europe.

You can take a 30-minute tour of the abbey and church, and be sure to stop for a slice of the Abbey's Asam layer cake at the open-air café. For spectacular views of the Abbey and Danube Gorge, you can hike along the top of the gorge.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Discovering More of Bavaria: After seeing the highlights of Bavaria, you may want to see more of the top tourist attractions in Munich and explore its best museums and art galleries . You'll find more nearby places to visit with the help of our pages on the top day trips from Munich and the top attractions of Nuremberg (Nürnberg).

Exploring Germany: For a good overview of the country's best experiences, see our page on the top-rated tourist attractions in Germany . To discover more of the north, you might travel to the exciting capital city of Berlin and explore the historic port of Hamburg .

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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 one of the best cities to visit in Europe , 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 .

These are just some of the best things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber , an ideal town to explore on a city break or as a stop on your road trip, being part of the famous  Romantic Road route (one of the most beautiful routes in Europe ). 

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 , making it the best place to stay in Bavaria 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

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Weather & Climate

Munich International Airport Guide

Best Munich Hotels

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Day Trips From Munich

Top Things to Do

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Things to Do With Kids

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Complete Guide to Oktoberfest

Top Restaurants in Munich

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Guide to Munich's Hofbräuhaus

Top 10 Things to Do in Bavaria, Germany

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Bavaria is one of the most popular and most scenic travel destinations in Germany. For many, Bavaria means  sausage , beer, and lederhosen . If you want to escape the crowds and experience the down-to-earth Gemütlichkeit   Bavaria is famous for, make sure to spend time in some rural villages along the way. Stop in a town you never heard of before, head to a Gasthaus  (restaurant) for some Bavarian fare, buy some goodies in a local store, or go for a hike in the beautiful mountains and forests.

Here are the most exciting things to do in Bavaria, from city breaks, and nature spots, to castles, scenic drives , and historic sites.

Visit the Zugspitze

At 9,718 feet, the Zugspitze is the highest peak of Germany and is reachable by a 10-minute cable car or a 35-minute train. The platform at the top sits on the border of Austria and Germany, making it possible for tourists to quickly jaunt between countries and check out the view from both sides. On a totally clear day, it's possible to see not just Germany and Austria, but also Switzerland and Italy.

The best way to get to the peak is to take the cable car from Eibsee, which travels through the clouds on an unforgettable high-altitude journey. However, if you prefer to keep your feet firmly planted on the ground, there is also a train that can take you to visit the mountain's glaciers. If you are arriving from Austria, you can also take a cable car from the town of Obermoos .

Visit the World's Oldest Brewery

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If you won't arrive in time for Oktoberfest, you can still get an authentic beer experience in Bavaria by visiting the world's oldest brewery. It's worth noting that two breweries claim the title, but they're both in Bavaria and both worth visiting if you're a fan of beer.

The Weihenstephan Abbey began brewing in the year 1040 and offers tours and tastings of its historic premises, which are still bottling beer to this day. However, the Weltenburg Abbey is technically the world's oldest monastic brewery, and Germany's oldest monastery, having begun its brewing operations in the year 1050. Located on a sandy riverbank on a bend in the Danube River, the Weltenburg Abbey makes for a lovely day trip and has a modern beer garden, where you can order your lunch with a beer-tasting.

Take in the City Sights of Munich

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Munich—or München— is the capital of Bavaria and the gateway to the Alps. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany and offers first-class museums and traditional German architecture, a salute to Bavaria's royal past.

Whether you sun yourself in Munich's English Garden or make do with rainy day activities , Munich is the Germany most visitors dream of. From the sinuous tones of the clocktower in Marienplatz and the bustling energy of the beer halls , there is a lot of beauty and fun to be had in the city in addition to its great museums like the Deutsche Museum, the world's oldest science and technology museum, and fantastic restaurants like the historic Fraunhofer Wirsthaus .

Tour the Disney-Like Neuschwanstein Castle

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The world's most famous castle, Neuschwanstein, is nestled in the Bavarian Alps and comes straight out of a fairy tale. King Ludwig II designed his dream castle with the help of a theatrical set designer, and it has inspired modern fairy tales such as Sleeping Beauty's castle in Disneyland. For those who want to avoid a steep climb to the top—or have a fairytale moment—it's also possible to take a horse-drawn carriage up to the castle.

You can take a tour through the flamboyant castle's interior. Highlights include a gaudy grotto, the Throne Room with its giant crown-shaped chandelier, and the lavish Minstrels' Hall. The castle's design is an homage to the German composer Richard Wagner and takes its name from the fictional castle in his opera Lohengrin.

Drink Beer and Eat Sausage at Oktoberfest

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Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair and one of the best festivals in Germany . Every year, more than six million visitors from all over the world come to Munich to drink beer, eat sausage, and join together in song. Despite its name, the festival actually begins in mid-September and ends during the first week of October.

Oktoberfest is a steadfast tradition that has taken place since 1810 when a feast was held to celebrate the royal wedding of Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The festival is famous for its huge beers in massive steins, but there is more to the Oktoberfest: link arms with locals, swing to the oompah of Bavarian bands, admire traditional costumes, enjoy hearty food, and get a good helping of German hospitality.

Visit Nuremberg, Bavaria's Second Largest City

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The 950-year old city of Nuremberg ( Nürnberg ) is alive with history. See the Imperial Castle, which was the residence of Germany’s Kaiser and kings; check out the romantic Old Town with original timber-framed buildings; rub the Schöner Brunnen fountain for luck, visit Albrecht Dürer’s House, and see the Nazi Rally Party Grounds.

During the holidays, the Old Town becomes a winter wonderland when Nuremberg celebrates its Christkindlmarkt , which is one of the country’s best Christmas markets. Need a warm-up? Order a plate of signature Nuremberg Rostbratwürste .

Take a Moment for Remembrance at Dachau

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The concentration camp of Dachau , which is 18 miles northwest of Munich, was one of the first concentration camps in Nazi Germany and would serve as a model for all subsequent camps in the Third Reich. Dachau was one of the longest-running camps until it was liberated in April of 1945 by American troops who freed 32,000 survivors.

Dachau visitors follow the "path of the prisoner," walking the same way prisoners were forced to after they were brought to the camp. You will see the original prisoner baths, barracks, courtyards, and the crematorium, as well as an extensive exhibition.

Stroll Fairy-tale German Streets in Bamberg

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Located over seven hills, this Bavarian town is nicknamed the "Franconian Rome." Bamberg has one of Europe’s largest intact old town centers and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Its early medieval plan, winding narrow streets and half-timbered architecture is the holy grail of fairy-tale Germany.

But the city is more than just a gorgeous still life. The University of Bamberg brings in more than 10,000 students, the nearby U.S. army base has around 4,000 members and dependents, and there are nearly 7,000 foreign nationals that reside here.

The city is also well-known for its glorious beer tradition . Its many breweries and Biergartens are a continual source of entertainment, plus they offer a Bamberg specialty, Rauchbier (smoked beer).

Admire Medieval Architecture in Rothenburg

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a fortified town and is one of the most visited spots in Germany. Famous for its medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone lanes stretch from one wall to the other in this perfectly preserved town on Romantic Road , a 260-mile trail that travels from Würzburg to Fussen.

This medieval town has over a millennium of history, but after the bubonic plague depleted Rothenburg of its money and power, the city has been frozen in time with its 17th-century look. After it was bombed during the second world war, 40 percent of the town's historic buildings were reconstructed and restored.

Explore the Bavarian Alps

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Whether you're walking, hiking, mountain biking, or skiing , the Alps are one of Bavaria’s (and Germany’s) premier holiday destinations. Running along the border between Germany and Austria, the Bavarian Alps are home to Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze, where you can go glacier skiing until May. Some of the most well-known resort towns in the German Alps are Oberstdorf, Füssen, Berchtesgaden , and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

The Bavarian Alps are a year-round destination and offer opportunities to visit sobering historic attractions like the Eagle's Nest, which was a gift from the Nazi party for Hitler’s 50th birthday. Perched on a mountain summit close to the town of Berchtesgaden, its construction in 1938 was an architectural phenomenon. The chalet is now a restaurant and beer garden, both offering stunning views of the Bavarian mountains.

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Germany Guide: Planning Your Trip

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The Top Places to Visit in the South of Germany

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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 .

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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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Germany Footsteps

Check Out 10 Unforgettable Places To Visit In Bavaria 😍

Bavaria is a place with a stunning mix of natural beauty and historic sites, each corner offering something unique to explore. This article is like a highlight reel of the best bits—the places you simply can’t miss in this southern German gem.

We’ve trekked through green forests, past towering mountains, and into the heart of old towns to bring you a list that showcases the prime picks of Bavaria.

In our search for the ultimate Bavarian destinations, we left no stone unturned. You can imagine us poring over maps, comparing notes, and getting lost in photos and tales of each locale. We were on a quest to find spots that show off just how lovely and diverse Bavaria is.

Every place we’ve chosen brings its own flavor to the table. From the iconic, perched high up Neuschwanstein Castle, fitting for a king’s fairytale, to the Zugspitze, the tallest peak around, where the views are so wide and high they’ll take your breath away.

Each stop is a chapter in Bavaria’s story, a blend of nature and history that is inviting and full of surprises. Let this guide lead you to Bavaria’s outstanding highlights, where every spot offers an extraordinary experience.

Be warned, though, after reading this, you’ll be booking the first flight you can to Bavaria!

Love Germany?  Click here to download your free guide to ALL of Germany’s Amazing UNESCO sites . See all 52 of them!

Table of Contents

Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Bavaria

1. neuschwanstein castle.

Neuschwanstein Castle is a place where fairy tales come to life. From the moment it comes into view, perched atop its rugged hill in the Bavarian Alps, you can’t help but be enchanted. It’s the kind of beauty that doesn’t just sit quietly; it announces itself, with towers reaching into the sky and walls that could tell a thousand stories.

I visit whenever I’m in the area, each time feeling like I step into a storybook. The castle’s interior, with its grand rooms and intricate designs, is just as captivating as its exterior. In the throne room, you can almost hear the echo of royal footsteps, and each window frames the kind of views that make you pause and soak in every detail.

Every visit here confirms why it’s a must-see. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, Neuschwanstein’s splendor never fades. It’s a testament to the imagination, a place that proves beauty can be both timeless and ever-evolving.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a step inside a living fairy tale. Its cobbled streets and medieval architecture transport you to a time when knights roamed and the walls told stories of ancient lore. The colorful half-timbered houses are a photographer’s dream, each corner holding a new surprise, a more charming view.

When I wander through Rothenburg, the scent of fresh pretzels and a cool breeze whispering through the alleyways always greets me. I particularly love the serene walk atop the city’s defensive wall, offering sweeping vistas of terraced gardens and rooftops that meld seamlessly with the surrounding countryside.

Evenings here are magical. As the sun sets, the city glows under the warm light of street lamps, and the Night Watchman’s tour becomes a must-do experience. It’s not just a place to visit—it’s a place to be immersed in, a spot where every visit uncovers something new amidst the old. Rothenburg ob der Tauber, truly, is the jewel of Bavaria.

Click here to read our full guide to Rothenburg.

3. The Romantic Road

Traveling down the Romantic Road is like stepping into a living fairytale. Picture yourself coasting through a landscape where medieval towns, fairytale castles, and unspoiled nature conjure a sense of timeless enchantment. It’s not just the stunning vistas of the Alpine foothills or the majestic Neuschwanstein Castle looming in the distance; it’s the feeling of connection to a rich, romantic past.

Each stop along this legendary route offers its own unique flavor of charm. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a personal highlight, with its perfectly preserved medieval architecture fostering an otherworldly escape from modern-day hustle. The quaint cafes and artisan shops whisper stories of the past, inviting exploration.

Whether it’s the vibrant frescoes of the Wieskirche or the vineyards gently sloping beside the road, the Romantic Road captivates with its blend of art, history, and natural beauty, making it an undeniable jewel of Bavaria. It’s a journey that lingers in your heart long after the last cobblestone fades from view.

Click here to read our full guide to Dinkelsbühl on the Romantic Road.

4. Berchtesgaden National Park

Berchtesgaden National Park offers a glimpse into a natural world of breathtaking purity. Each visit here feels like a serene escape; the crystal-clear waters of Königssee are like a mirror, reflecting the majestic Alps.

Gazing upon the Watzmann, the park’s iconic peak, is an awe-inspiring moment that has never lessened no matter how often I see it. The sense of peace I find as I explore the gentle paths or face the challenge of a rugged hike is profound. Treasures like the Obersee’s secluded beauty, and the historic St. Bartholomä Church, only accessible by boat or a rewarding hike, are amazing.

Berchtesgaden is a reminder of Earth’s quiet power and raw beauty, a place where nature’s artistry is so vivid, it’s as if the world has turned up the intensity of its colors just to remind us of its wonders. It is, without a doubt, a jewel in Bavaria’s crown.

5. Munich’s Englischer Garten

As you stroll through Munich’s Englischer Garten, you’ll understand why it holds a special place among Bavaria’s must-visit spots. This vast urban park beckons visitors with its sprawling lawns, which unfurl like a green carpet under the city’s skyline. It’s an oasis of tranquility where the chatter of birds vies with the murmur of city life on the fringe.

Here, the serene flow of the Eisbach River adds an almost melodic backdrop as it weaves through the park. On sunny days, you’ll find surfers riding the river’s continuous wave, bringing an unexpected twist to an otherwise idyllic setting. It’s the juxtaposition of such surprises that casts the Englischer Garten in a unique light, making each visit memorable.

Wandering paths lead to hidden beer gardens, where a frothy local brew and pretzels provide respite for weary travelers. The Chinesischer Turm, towering amidst the trees, is not just a landmark; it’s a beacon calling you to indulge in the Bavarian penchant for good food and better company.

Click here to read our guide to Munich.

6. Linderhof Palace

When you step onto the grounds of Linderhof Palace, it’s like being whisked away into a fairytale. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, the palace is a jewel of lush gardens and stunning architecture. It’s not the largest of King Ludwig II’s castles, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in opulence and beauty.

A personal highlight is always the Venus Grotto, an artificial cave complete with a dreamy lake. I pause every time, marveling at the vivid colors and eerie illumination. The palace interiors, with their glittering mirrors and intricate patterns, leave a lasting impression of splendor dating back to a time when royal whims were etched in stone and gold leaf.

With each visit, I discover a new detail in the elaborate gardens, whether it’s a hidden fountain or a perfectly trimmed topiary, confirming that Linderhof Palace is indeed one of Bavaria’s most enchanting places.

Bamberg captures your heart with its medieval charm. As you wander through the cobbled streets, the city feels like a page from a fairy tale, with its half-timbered houses and the towering Bamberg Cathedral. Each visit strengthens the sense that this town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not just a place but a beautiful experience. It’s a fusion of history, culture, and beauty.

The Altes Rathaus, perched in the middle of a river, strikes a balance between a surreal work of art and an architectural marvel. And it’s not just the sights; the town’s brewery tradition invites you to savor a unique smoked beer, something that carries the genuine flavor of Bavarian heritage.

Standing amidst the old town, the serenity and beauty of Bamberg invariably instill a sense of wonder, a reminder of why it stands proudly amongst Bavaria’s best.

Click here to read our full guide to Bamberg.

8. Nuremberg

Nuremberg, the jewel of Bavaria, holds a unique charm that continuously draws me back. Walking through the cobbled streets, you can’t help but feel wrapped in layers of history, from half-timbered houses to the formidable Nuremberg Castle that stands watch over the city. It’s a place where the past and present elegantly intertwine.

Every visit offers something new amid the familiar. The bustling Christkindlesmarkt, with its twinkling lights and spicy scent of mulled wine, is a festive wonderland that enchants every sense. Meanwhile, the serene Schöner Brunnen fountain whispers secrets of medieval lore if you turn its golden ring.

But beyond the attractions, Nuremberg’s beauty lies in moments of quiet alchemy—like the golden hour painting the old city walls amber, or the gentle hum of the Pegnitz River, which seems to croon lullabies to the city it cradles. Whether you’re exploring history or simply basking in the Bavarian ambiance, Nuremberg has a way of captivating hearts subtly yet wholly.

Click here to read our full guide to Nuremberg.

9. Würzburg

Wandering through Würzburg, you’re swept into a realm where every street and building tells a tale. The architectural masterpiece, the Würzburg Residence, with its grand staircase and ornate frescoes, is a sight that shouldn’t be missed. Its gardens, with impeccably sculpted hedges and playful fountains, offer a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

Standing on the old bridge, Mainbrücke, a glass of local Franconian wine in hand, the view of the Marienberg Fortress across the river is stunning, especially at sunset when the sky is painted with streaks of pink and orange. The warmth of the city’s residents adds to the charm of exploring Würzburg—a place that doesn’t just boast beauty but invites you to be a part of it.

No trip to Bavaria is truly complete without experiencing the blend of history and culture that Würzburg offers.

Click here to read our full guide to Würzburg.

10. The Zugspitze

When you visit Bavaria, Zugspitze is an absolute must-see. Standing at the summit, the crisp, pure air surrounds you, creating a feeling of profound serenity. It’s Germany’s highest peak and offers views that are simply otherworldly. On a clear day, you can marvel at panoramas spanning four different countries.

The journey to the top, whether by the cogwheel train or the cable car, presents its own grand sights. Glaciers grace the landscape with a timeless majesty, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot climbers challenging the mountain’s daunting yet beautiful terrain.

I often find myself drawn back to Zugspitze. There’s a unique peace that comes with being above the world, isolated from the bustling sounds of daily life. The purity of nature here is unparalleled; it’s a reminder of Earth’s enduring splendor. Each visit feels like the first – staggeringly beautiful and utterly unforgettable.

Bavaria’s breathtaking landscapes, from the fairy-tale castles perched atop lush hills to the crystal-clear lakes nestled within the Alps, beckon to every kind of traveler. Each destination offers a unique window into the region’s rich history and culture, complemented by the warm hospitality of its people.

Whether you’ve come to wander through cobblestone streets, indulge in the hearty Bavarian cuisine, or simply to soak up the awe-inspiring vistas, there’s no doubt that the memories made in these top 10 best places in Bavaria will linger long after the journey has ended.

Venturing into the heart of Bavaria, travelers find more than just a vacation; they encounter an exuberant celebration of heritage, nature, and architecture that is compellingly intertwined with modern life. Don’t miss a chance to visit Bavaria.

Want to learn more about visiting Bavaria? Read our reasons here for why it’s the best region in the world and find all our detailed travel guides to Bavaria here . Also check out our list of the best places to visit in southern Germany here . Make sure you don’t miss our list to what you must know before you travel to Germany here or our full guide to Füssen here which is also a great place to visit in Bavaria.

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon first fell in love with Germany back in 2000 on her first visit. She loves the long history, the picturesque Old Towns, the castles, the food, everything really! Since then, she has visited many times and loves writing about Germany here so you can enjoy it too. In fact, Sharon loves German culture so much that she sent her kids to a German primary school in Australia. She especially loves Berlin and towns with charming Old Towns like Celle and Quedlinburg. Sharon also has a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and understands the nitty gritty of travel planning. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to Germany whether it's your first or tenth time!

Wurzburg was one of my favourite cities when I was stationed in Germany 🇩🇪 I was stationed in a city called Schweinfurt That a lot of people never talk about and it’s on the Main River and Avery good wine region With a lot of history.

I haven’t heard of Schweinfurt. Off to google it now!

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8. January 2022 - Anika Semmer

Best Places to Visit in Bavaria – 50 Favourite Places and Insider Tips

Crystal-clear lakes, majestic mountains, idyllic valleys and forests and breathtaking gorges – scenically, Bavaria has more to offer than almost any other federal state. Some of the most beautiful German cities – famous and surprisingly unknown – with their picturesque old towns, magnificent buildings, castles and gripping stories are located in Germany’s largest federal state. And then the state offers popular attractions like Legoland, treetop trails, thermal spas and amusement parks.

Whether you’re with family, as a couple or with friends looking for places to visit in Bavaria, you’ll find several excursion options in this listing that are just what you’ve been looking for. All 50 are perfect for a day trip – some cities and regions offer enough for a weekend trip or short holiday. In addition to absolute highlights, you’ll also find insider tips and personal insider tips and recommendations.

I lived in Bavaria myself for 10 years, in Upper Bavaria and in Franconia, and have already visited most of the best places to visit in Bavaria presented here. Every year I spend at least a week in the Allgäu and Franconia, two of the most beautiful holiday regions in Germany in my opinion. If you are looking for activities in cities or specific regions, you can find ideas for excursions in Allgäu and other regions and cities in other articles.

50 Best Places to Visit in Bavaria That Are Really Special

In the Berchtesgaden National Park lies the Königsee, which offers some insane photo motifs

Bavaria is the largest federal state and is located in the south-east of Germany. In the south it has high mountains and Alpine foothills. In the north, low mountain ranges such as the Fichtelgebirge and the Bavarian Forest dominate the landscape. I have sorted the excursion destinations geographically according to the parts of the country and their districts.

First up is Franconia, which has so many historic towns worth seeing that it was very difficult for me to limit myself. Then comes Upper Bavaria, in the middle of which lies the Bavarian capital Munich. Next comes Eastern Bavaria, whose excursion tips I have divided into destinations in the Upper Palatinate and Lower Bavaria. Lastly come my favourite places in the Allgäu and in Bavarian Swabia, home to some of the most impressive best places to visit in Bavaria.

Romantic Franconia: The 15 Most Beautiful Franconian Places

The Plönlein in Rothenburg ob der Tauber even graces the Lonely Planet Germany

Picturesque old towns with half-timbered houses and spire towers, magnificent palaces and castles, idyllic valleys, wooded hills and bizarre stone formations: Franconia’s towns and natural landscapes are so beautiful and varied that they lend themselves to many day trips, weekend breaks and discovery tours. Some of Franconia’s most beautiful best places to visit in Bavaria are located on the Romantic Road and the Castle Road and are famous sights beyond Germany’s borders, while others are real insider tips. Or have you ever heard of Dinkelsbühl, which some people call the most beautiful town in Germany?

There is also a lot to offer in the way of culinary delights: Fantastic Franconian wine, countless good breweries and brewery pubs with brewed specialities, three in a Weckla and ox shreds and gingerbread are typically Franconian.

The 15 most beautiful Franconian best places to visit in Bavaria are sorted by the districts of Lower Franconia, Middle Franconia and Upper Franconia: the first 4 excursion destinations are in Lower Franconia, 5-9 in Middle Franconia and 9-15 in Upper Franconia. They are all worth exploring and there are many a personal insider tip.

Masterpiece of baroque architecture: the Residenz in Würzburg

• Baroque and residential city of Würzburg: Würzburg has enough to offer for a weekend trip! It really is worth visiting some of the magnificent baroque and rococo buildings and churches! First and foremost the Würzburg Residence, where renowned artists have achieved great things, including the largest continuous ceiling fresco in the world. The Würzburg Cathedral with its magnificent Baroque organ, the Marienberg Fortress, many churches and the city’s landmark: the Old Main Bridge, are also well worth seeing.
• Kloster Kreuzberg near Bischofsheim: On the western slope of the “Holy Mountain of the Franks” lies the pilgrimage monastery Kreuzberg and offers a fantastic view over Franconia, the Rhön, the Thuringian Forest and the Spessart. The monastery inn serves delicious home-brewed beer.
• Rosarium in Bad Kissingen: The rose city of Bad Kissingen has a rose garden with around 10,000 rose bushes and 130 rose varieties. From early summer onwards, the sea of blossoms offers an overwhelming sight. Germany’s only multimedia fountain is also located in the rose garden, where water droplets provide the screen for films and musical water choreographies
• Franconian Red Wine Trail in Churfranken: In the Middle Ages, Franconia was the largest wine-growing region in the Holy Roman Empire. Even today, Franconia is famous not only for its high density of breweries but also for excellent wines. The most beautiful hike is an approximately 77 km long long-distance hiking trail from Großwallstadt to Bürgstadt through the Main valley, which can be enjoyed in 6 stages.
• Nuremberg’s Old Town: Nuremberg’s long history dates back to the year 850. The picturesque Old Town with its half-timbered houses, the Imperial Castle, the imposing Gothic Church of Our Lady, the Albrecht Dürer House and many other historic buildings and churches still shows the wealth of Nuremberg’s merchants. Nuremberg is still famous for its gingerbread and toys. For those with more time to spare, there are highly recommended museums here: the Germanic National Museum and the Dürer House. The Reich Party Rally Grounds with its monumental buildings and streets are an important piece of German history for anyone interested in the events of the Second World War. With a population of around 520,000, Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria.
• Hohler Fels near Happurg in Hersbrucker Schweiz: The Houbirg, Hohler Fels, in the Nuremberg region is one of the hiking highlights in Franconia and one of the special historical best places to visit in Bavaria. From the mountain you have a wonderful panoramic view of the Happurg reservoir and the rugged rock, and the vegetation is reminiscent of the Italian Trentino. Stone steps lead down to the hollow rock with its two arches and the cave. Findings prove that this cave has been used as a hunting station since about 6000 BC, in the Middle Palaeolithic. There are also remains of a Celtic oppidum, of which only remnants of the rampart are still recognisable, a castle stable and, as a sad part of history, the gallery, which was supposed to be built under inhuman conditions in 1944/45 as an armament factory but was never finished.
• The old town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A town like something out of a storybook. Many films have been shot in Rothenburg ob der Tauber and the Lonely Planet Germany travel guide features a picture of the Plönlein. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the must-see destinations in Bavaria. Within the completely preserved city wall, the picturesque old town with its largely preserved buildings from the Middle Ages lies above the Tauber valley. This town, which is well worth seeing, is one of the highlights of the Romantic Road. Particularly worth a visit is the Pfingstwiese, a historical festival at which the locals dress up in medieval costumes and hold a medieval festival with the “Meistertrunk” as the highlight. Medieval flair at its best!
• Old town of Dinkelsbühl: Nobody knows Dinkelsbühl, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is world famous. Absurd! The small medieval town is also surrounded by a city wall and offers pretty alleys with historic buildings where it seems as if time has stood still. Outside the town wall, a path leads around the town and offers wonderful views again and again. The people of Dinkelsbühl also dress up medieval every year and celebrate the local festival Kinderzeche, which dates back to the 30 Years War.
• Marked rock formations in Franconian Switzerland: Typical of Franconian Switzerland are the bizarre rock formations that tower up like needles and are remnants from the Jurassic Sea. Of the many hikes, I recommend the approximately 13-kilometre hiking tour from Gößweinstein to the rock village and rock gate, it takes about 4.5 hours. The Franconian Shweiz is one of the best places to visit in Bavaria where there is so much to discover that a day trip here is actually too short: 185 castles and palaces, around 1,000 caves and a wonderful landscape in the north of Bavaria are to be found here. You can drive through the whole of Franconian Switzerland in about an hour. Franconian Switzerland has the highest density of breweries in Bavaria, so there are great opportunities for beer lovers to go brewery hiking here!
• The old town of Bamberg : Around 2400 listed houses form a historic townscape that has grown over more than 1000 years. The imperial cathedral, which is well worth seeing, towers over the three historic town centres: mountain town, island town and gardener’s town with their beautiful corners. A visit to Bamberg must include a stop at one of the famous Sternla or Schlenkerla breweries, which serve smoked beer as a speciality.
• Griess celler in Geisfeld : In the district of Bamberg near Strullendorf is one of the most beautiful beer cellars in all of Upper Franconia. It is a rustic Bavarian restaurant with a terrace that offers a magnificent view of the valley. From the upper seats you can enjoy the sunset over the fields
• Cellars Forchheim: Beer from Forchheim breweries and hearty Franconian cuisine are available in the world’s largest beer garden in a relaxed atmosphere under trees. In an underground labyrinth with kilometre-long corridors, the barley juice has been maturing for over 400 years! In the past, beer was served in the cellar and drunk where it was stored: in the cellar. The pub was then built on top of the cellar. The Annafest, which takes place for a fortnight every summer and at which not only beer is drunk, but also danced and celebrated, is particularly lively.
• Rock labyrinth at the Luisenburg near Wunsiedel: A gigantic sea of granite stones forms the largest rock labyrinth in Europe. It is located in the Fichtelgebirge and you can wonderfully explore the unique landscape with caves, gorges and the 300-million-year-old granite stone boulders while hiking on the circular hiking trail.
• Main valley from Ebensfeld to Lichtenfels: Idyllic flowering meadows, rugged rock formations, picturesque villages characterise the scenically beautiful Main valley. Impressive cultural sights are the Banz Monastery and the pilgrimage church of Vierzehnheiligen with its 75-metre-high tower.
• Staffelberg in Upper Franconia: One of the biggest attractions in Franconia for nature lovers and hikers. From the striking rocky crest at 539 metres, you have a breathtaking panoramic view over the Main valley.

Gorgeous Upper Bavaria: The 15 Most Beautiful Best Places to Visit in Upper Bavaria

Glittering icicles in the Partnachklamm

In the middle of Upper Bavaria lies Munich, the “white sausage capital” with the worth seeing Viktualienmarkt, Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Castle and enough sights for a short holiday.

Many fantastic lakes, Germany’s highest mountain, magnificent castles and monasteries and breathtaking gorges as well as quaint typical Upper Bavarian mountain villages with onion-roofed churches and Lüftlmalerei make Upper Bavaria one of the most attractive holiday regions in Germany. Germany’s only national park in the Alps at the foot of the Watzmann is also a pure natural paradise.

From a culinary point of view, a visit to at least one of the rustic beer gardens and breweries is an absolute must. Hearty pork knuckles, Obatzter, Müncher Weisswürste with pretzels and sweet mustard, liver dumpling soup and Dampfnudeln are typical Upper Bavarian delicacies.

The 15 most beautiful Upper Bavarian best places to visit in Bavaria start in Munich, a city about which I could give many excursion tips because I lived there for several years. Then come some of the most beautiful lakes around Munich to Berchtesgaden. Finally come some of the most beautiful destinations in Germany in the German Alps, which are among my absolute favourites.

Munich is centrally located in the Alpine foothills

• Bavarian capital Munich: A Weisswurst (white sausage) at the Viktualienmarkt, overlooking the city from the Alter Peter and walking to the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady), a walk from the Stachus via Marienplatz to Odeonsplatz, then into the English Garden and a stop at a typical Munich brewery pub: If you are in Munich for the first time, you will only be able to see the best-known sights, despite the packed programme. Nymphenburg Palace with its beautiful park is an excursion destination in itself. Museums that are well worth seeing, such as the Pinakotheken and the Deutsches Museum, are great for rainy days. Don’t miss Café Dallmayr with its in-house roasting and homemade fresh chocolates! It’s also worth visiting the Olympic Park with its futuristic architecture, which offers a great view of the city and, on a clear day, even as far as the Alps.
• Tutzing beer garden on Lake Starnberg: You can philosophise and have a hearty snack with a cool “Mass”, a good “Obatzda”, radishes and pretzels right on the water at Lake Starnberg. In Upper Bavaria there are several beer gardens right on the water’s edge, which are perhaps the most beautiful Bavarian way of life. Beer gardens are part of the DNA of every Bavarian.
• Wellness oasis Therme Erding: In Erding, not far from Munich, lies the largest thermal spa in the world, which is really worthwhile despite the steep admission price. For me, a visit at least once a year was absolutely essential when I lived in Bavaria. Turquoise water, palm trees, cocktails in the pool and a terrific sauna landscape with a great programme and wellness oases let you come down wonderfully. But there are also a whole 27 water slides in the associated adventure pool, where you can spend the whole day on 2,700 metres. Therme Erding is the destination in Bavaria for everyone for whom a whole day of wellness is pure joie de vivre.
• Bräustüberl Weihenstephan: The beer garden in the middle of the campus of the Chair of Brewing Technology on Weihenstephaner Berg offers a great view over the town of Freising and the countryside. As the oldest brewery in the world, the Weihenstephan State Brewery has been brewing beer for almost 1000 years, now many different varieties. Before or after the stop, you can still stroll through the pretty town of Freising and let the excursion come to an end.
• Place of pilgrimage and economic asset Andechs Monastery: Since the Middle Ages, many people have made an annual pilgrimage to Andechs. Back then, a relic was the main reason, today it is the highly praised beer for many. The 1.5-hour hike from Herrsching up the mountain to Andechs Monastery through the shady Kiental valley is recommended. Once there, there is the pilgrimage church, magnificently decorated inside in Rococo style, the brewery and a traditional monastery inn. There you can also buy monastery schnapps, freshly baked bread, pretzels and freshly prepared local delicacies to take home.
• Bavaria’s largest lake with magnificent castle: Fantastic nature, the Kampenwand, caves and a magnificent castle: Bavaria’s largest lake, Chiemsee, offers several destinations in Bavaria that are well worth a visit. The most magnificent of these is Herrenchiemsee Castle. Lake Chiemsee lies picturesquely against the backdrop of the foothills of the Alps, and in the middle of the lake is the island of Herrenchiemsee. On it stands the most magnificent and last castle with its gardens, built by the fairytale king Ludwig II, whose 20 state rooms can be visited. He set himself the insane goal of surpassing Versailles Palace, which served as a model for Herrenchiemsee.
• Boating on Lake Königssee: In the Berchtesgaden National Park, Lake Königssee is nestled in the mountains with its steeply falling rock faces. To explore the beautiful nature around the lake, you have to take an electric boat. It glides silently in about 35 minutes to the other end of the lake to the Salet stop. Only from there can you reach the picturesque Obersee, an amazing photo motif. The boat trip also includes the captain performing the famous Echso am Königssee and blowing the trumpet. It’s worth stopping at the church of St. Bartholomä on the way there or back and taking a walk to the ice chapel or along the lake. However, you should not miss the last ride, a private ride costs around 250 euros!
• Viewing peak Jenner: On the Jenner, an amazing view over the Berchtesgadener Land with Königssee and Watzmann awaits you. A particularly beautiful hike goes from Schönau am Königssee around 1200 metres in altitude to the summit. From the Hinterbrand car park, you can also take a shorter hike to the Jenner, which only requires 690 metres in altitude and 8.4 kilometres. But if you don’t want to hike, you can also take the Jenner cable car and ride up to the summit, which is around 1,800 metres high.
• Fateful mountain Watzmann: The Watzmann crossing is one of the most beautiful hiking tours in the German Alps, but it is demanding. Climbing and crossing the 3 Watzmann peaks is considered the royal tour of the Bavarian Alps and is only feasible for fit and experienced mountaineers. If you want to take it easy, I recommend the hike to the Watzmannhaus from the Wimbachbrücke in Ramsau.
• Original Old Town Oberammergau: Urige, Bavarian paintings on the house facades, carvings, onion domes and pretty alleyways with historic buildings. Oberammergau is a picture-perfect little town of 5,500 people where woodcarving has been a tradition since the Middle Ages. It is one of the destinations in Bavaria that is best known for the passion plays that take place there every 10 years. it is a wonderful place to stop for a bite to eat, stroll through the pretty alleyways and browse through the shops of the many artisans.
• Partnachklamm in Garmisch Partenkirchen: I have done more than a dozen gorge hikes in Bavaria, but the Partnachklamm has topped them all. In winter, it offers a breathtaking natural spectacle when the water streaming down solidifies into metre-long bizarre icicles. From the Garmisch Partenkirchen car park, it takes about 20 minutes to walk to the Partnachklamm gorge or take a horse-drawn carriage. The gorge is about 700m through tunnels and passages.
• Idyllic Linderhof Castle: Linderhof Castle is another magnificent building built by the fairytale king Ludwig II. The castle itself can be visited in the summer months, but the main reason to come here is the 19th century park surrounding the castle. It is rightly considered one of the most beautiful of its time!
• On Germany’s highest peak: On the summit of the Zugspitze, at 2962 m, you get a fantastic 360-degree panoramic view of around 400 mountain peaks. There is also Germany’s highest beer garden, although it can be mercilessly crowded during the holidays. The gondola ride up to the Zugspitz glacier is one of the most popular best places to visit in Bavaria and you should definitely buy tickets online in advance – otherwise you might not get one on site! Even more grandiose is the ascent on foot for experienced hikers or for the less experienced with a state-certified mountain guide.
• Wildly romantic Höllentalklamm: The Hammersbach cuts deep into the mountains and tumbles over boulders, tumbling and foaming into pools. The Höllentalklamm is the imposing big sister of the Partnachklamm and is only open in the summer half-year and only when the weather permits. The walls of the Höllentalklamm are almost twice as high as those of the Partnachklamm and the nature is spectacular. From the Hammersbach car park, you have to cover around 3 kilometres and 300 metres in altitude until you reach the gorge.
• Ridge hike from Heimgarten to Herzogstand: The ridge hike between the peaks of two of Munich’s local mountains offers a wonderful panoramic view and is not difficult. The hike starts at the car park of the Herzogstandbahn in the direction of Heimgarten and leads first to Heimgarten and then along the ridge on the Höhenweg to the summit of Herzogstand. The view from the summit of the Herzogstand is fantastic and you can stop at the mountain inn before starting the descent.

The 10 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Bavaria

Idyllic Weltenburg Monastery on the Danube

Endless forests, Europe’s second largest river and mighty mountains characterise rural Eastern Bavaria. Eastern Bavaria comprises the districts of Upper Palatinate and Lower Bavaria and borders Upper Bavaria to the west and the Czech Republic and Austria to the west.

The cultural hotspot of the Upper Palatinate is the cathedral city of Regensburg with its fabulous old town. The Upper Palatinate is also known as the castle country of Bavaria, built by rulers in the most beautiful places. Popular cultural attractions in Lower Bavaria are the three-river city of Passau and the medieval Traunsitz Castle near Landshut. In addition, there are special excursion destinations in Eastern Bavaria to discover, such as one of the most beautiful dripstone caves and castle ruins on granite rock towers.

The most beautiful excursion destinations in Eastern Bavaria are sorted according to the districts of Upper Palatinate and Lower Bavaria: Excursion destinations 1-5 are in Upper Palatinate and 6-10 in Lower Bavaria.

King Ludwig I had the Valhalla built from 1842

• Cathedral city Regensburg: Regensburg has a beautiful medieval old town with colourful houses, the Gothic St. Peter’s Cathedral and the famous Stone Bridge, nice pubs and bars and many students. The old town has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006 and was important as a trading town in Roman times and especially in the Middle Ages. Regensburg is worthwhile both for strolling and sightseeing and for a night-time pub crawl.
• National Monument Valhalla in Donaustauf: Imposing and mighty, a temple rises on pillars above the Danube. Valhalla is one of the most important German national monuments of the 19th century. It was erected by Ludwig I as a memorial to important German personalities, who were immortalised there with commemorative plaques or busts.
• Weissenstein Castle Ruin in the Steinwald: The Weißenstein Castle Ruin sits enthroned on the 863m high Weißenstein near Waldershof in the northern Upper Palatinate in the Steinwald mountain range. From the castle tower you have a wonderful view over the Bavarian Forest. Historically, the castle did not play a major role. What makes it unique and one of the most beautiful castles in the Upper Palatinate is its location: it is enthroned on bizarre granite rock towers, which were included in the base and walls of the castle complex during construction.
• Old town of Amberg: Around the small town of Amberg, the town wall stretches as a ring with its four historic gates. It has a beautiful old town with a historic market square, town spectacles and the electoral castle, which today houses the district administration office. The Vils flows directly through the old town, which is why some Bavarians also call Amberg the Venice of the Upper Palatinate.
• King Otto Dripstone Cave near Velburg: One of the most beautiful dripstone caves in Germany was discovered on the name day of the Bavarian King Otto and named after him. The King Otto Stalactite Cave is a natural karst cave and was formed in the Jurassic Malm. On a 40-minute guided tour, you can visit the fascinating interior of the hall cave with its stalactites.
• Great Arber in the Bavarian Forest: The “King of the Bavarian Forest” is called the Great Arber and lies half in Lower Bavaria and half in the Upper Palatinate. It is the highest mountain in this forest. The Great Arber has four peaks in total, which can be hiked from all sides along a network of paths. Alternatively, you can take the cable car up to the mountain station at Aberschutzhaus. A beautiful hike goes from Bodenmais via the Rieloch Falls to the summit of the Arber. he view from the main summit, the Richard-Wagner-Kopf over the Bavarian-Bohemian border area is fantastic.
• Boat trip through the Weltenburg Narrows to Weltenburg Monastery: Between Kelheim and Weltenburg Monastery in the picturesque Altmühl Valley lies an impressive Danube breakthrough in the middle of a nature reserve. By boat or a “Zille”, a traditional fishing boat on the Danube, you can experience one of the most scenic Lower Bavarian excursion destinations from the water from Kelheim to Weltenburg Monastery. The Benedictine monastery of Weltenburg is picturesquely situated in a Danube gorge and owns the oldest monastery brewery in the world and its dark beer has been awarded several times as the best dark beer in the world at the World Beer Cup.
• Castle Trausnitz in Landshut: Towering above Landshut is the imposing Trausnitz castle complex built in the Middle Ages, which experienced its heyday in the 15th century as the Bavarian ducal court of the Wittelsbach dynasty. The view over the roofs of Landshut alone is worth it! Ludwig X modernised it in the 16th century as a Renaissance palace – it has been rebuilt several times to this day. In modern times, it served as barracks, a prison for nobles, a military hospital and a cholera hospital. Today, you can discover beautiful details from the different eras everywhere at Trausnitz Castle, and it is one of the most beautiful castles in Bavaria. The castle is home to a Chamber of Art and Curiosities, which houses works of art from the Renaissance, much like the historical Chambers of Art and Curiosities.
• Tree treetop field trail in the Bavarian Forest National Park: A wooden skeleton in the shape of an egg stands in the middle of the forest near Neuschönau. At least that’s how it looks from a distance. The wooden construction leads steadily up to above the treetops and is equipped with adventure elements such as wobbly backs, balancing beams and rope bridges and information boards. At about half the height, you can enjoy the beautiful Bavarian Forest in peace and quiet until you reach the tree tower at a height of 44 metres, offering a magnificent view over the Bavarian Forest. You can stop for a bite to eat in the forest restaurant below the tree-top walk.
• Three-river city of Passau: The Danube, Ilz and Inn flow together in Passau from three cardinal directions and continue together in the fourth cardinal direction. This is not the case in any other city in the world! Charming alleys, baroque buildings and the historic St. Stephan’s Cathedral form the beautiful old town of the university city. Also worth a visit is the Veste Oberhaus, a medieval castle complex that towers over Passau, and the New Episcopal Residence with the cathedral treasury.

The 10 Most Beautiful Best Places in Allgäu and Bavarian Swabia

Neuschwanstein Castle in Allgäu is one of the world-famous best places to visit in Bavaria

Idyllic old towns with half-timbered houses, splendid residences and magnificent buildings, fairytale castles, thundering gorges, picturesque lakes against the backdrop of the German Alps: Bavarian Swabia with the Allgäu is one of the most beautiful regions in the whole of Germany and offers many sights worth seeing. The romantic road also leads from Franconia to Füssen with some highlights that are known beyond Germany’s borders. One of the most famous is the snow-white fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein, which is visited by around 1.5 million people every year and is the epitome of romantic eclecticism, beautifully framed in a mountain backdrop.

Culinarily, you can taste the Swabian influence on Bavarian cuisine in Bavarian Swabia: Kässpätzle with mountain cheese and Krautkrapfen, Speckknödel, Flädlesuppe are typical of the local cuisine.

The most beautiful 10 Swabian best places to visit in Bavaria are sorted by excursion destinations in the south in Allgäu and in the north in Bavarian Swabia: Excursion destinations 1-7 are in the Allgäu and 8-10 in the Swabian part of the Free State of Bavaria.

Highlight in the Allgäu: The view from the Nebelhorn

• Lindau Old Town and Harbour: Lindau on Lake Constance has a charming old town with pretty, colourful, crooked houses and winding alleys. The heart of the old town is Maximillianstraße with the beautiful Gothic town hall, Bismarckplatz and some of the oldest patrician houses from the Middle Ages. The town lies on the eastern shore of Lake Constance on a harbour island and its harbour with the lion and lighthouse and the beautiful harbour promenade is one of the most beautiful in Germany. In summer, Lindau exudes a Mediterranean holiday feeling with its boutiques and fashion shops right on the waterfront
• Up to the Nebelhorn near Oberstdorf: Oberstdorf in the Bavarian Alps is famous for the Four Hills Tournament and some of the most beautiful hiking and skiing areas in Germany. Hiking from Oberstdorf through the Oytal to the Nebelhorn is one of the most beautiful hiking tours in the Allgäu: thundering waterfalls, green valleys, mountain meadows with gentian and bellflowers and the rugged mountains, that is the beautiful Oytal. However, the hike is classified as difficult and requires surefootedness in places. At 2,224m, the panoramic view of the Alps, Oberstdorf, Sonthofen and Kleinwalsertal is breathtaking. Alternatively, you can take the mountain railway from Oberstdorf up to the Nebelhorn.
• Breitachklamm gorge near Oberstdorf: Over 8000 years ago, the Breitach river bored its way through the rocks during the glacial melt of the last Ice Age. The result is the impressive deepest rock gorge in Central Europe. From Oberstdorf you can easily reach the two entrances to the gorge and walk through the narrow gorge, which is about 2.2 kilometres long and has overhanging rock walls up to 100 metres high, in about 1 hour. The Breitach river thunders over rocky banks, gurgles in pools and the finest droplets of spray or ice crystals waft around you in the glittering light as you hike. In summer and winter, this beautiful natural monument is one of the most beautiful destinations in Bavaria and one of the most impressive geotopes in Bavaria.
• Eistobel in Westallgäu: In winter, the Eistobel, a gorge through which the Obere Argen flows, is an incomparable sight. For several months, the waterfalls often freeze into ice. In spring to autumn, the water gurgles in the middle of the gorge with its 130-metre-high rock walls in strude holes and the river roars over huge boulders and falls in several cascades about 70 metres into the depths. You can hike the approximately 5-kilometre-long path through the gorge in 2 hours, for the way back with some steep passages you should plan another 1.5 hours.
• King’s Corner in the Allgäu: Around Füssen, Pfronten and Schwangau, there are so many fairytale castles and fortresses worth seeing that the term Königswinkel (King’s Corner) came into being in more recent times. Not only the world-famous fairytale castle Neuschwanstein, the most famous castle of Ludwig II, is enthroned here amidst a breathtaking mountain backdrop. From Neuschwanstein you can see the yellow Hohenschwangau Castle and the High Castle at your feet. The ruins of Falkenstein Castle were also planned by the construction-minded Ludwig II as a castle, and the ruins of Hohenfreyberg and Eisenberg are also well worth seeing. All are worth a visit and offer magnificent views over the hilly landscape with the Forggensee and Alpsee lakes and the Ammergau Alps! The main attraction and the most popular of the best places to visit in Bavaria is Neuschwanstein Castle, which you can get a picture-book view of from the Marienbrücke bridge.
• Old town of Füssen and the Lechfall: In Bavaria’s highest town, Füssen, the Via Augusta, the German Alpine Road and the Romantic Road come together. Grandly situated at the foot of the Ammergau Alps, the Lech flows through the beautiful old town with its lovely colourful half-timbered houses, the Heilig-Geist-Spitalkirche and the Benedictine monastery of St. Mang, which is well worth seeing. From the Hohes Schloss (High Castle), which towers above Füssen, you have a magnificent view over the roofs of the town. The roots of the town go back to Roman times and it reached its first heyday under Emperor Maximillian I and played an important role in the Bavarian War of Succession. It is worth taking a detour to the Lech Falls with its turquoise water, along which you can walk on a natural path to Austria.
• Boating on Lake Forggen: Bavaria’s fifth largest lake is an artificial reservoir. From June to October it reaches its full reservoir capacity and lies in the middle of the dream landscape with the Alps and royal castles and the silhouette of Füssen. On a boat trip you can relax and enjoy the wonderful views in all directions. Lake Forggensee is particularly impressive at alpenglow.
• Pompous Fuggerstadt Augsburg: Augsburg is one of the oldest cities in Germany and became a powerful and influential trading city under the Swabian merchant dynasty of the Fuggers. Jakob Fugger was quite rightly nicknamed “the rich man”: by today’s standards, his fortune was around 300 billion dollars – that was around 2 percent of Europe’s gross domestic product at the time! Even the Medici looked pale in comparison. Augsburg is still home to the world’s oldest social settlement, which is one of the main sights of the Fuggerstadt: the Fuggerei with its lanes of terraced houses and the Fugger Museum. Even today, Augsburg citizens live here for an annual rent of 88 cents! The most beautiful sights in the old town include Augsburg Cathedral, the Town Hall with the Town Hall Square, the Lech Quarter, Weavers’ House and Town Market and the city wall with its five city gates. Next to the Red Gate is the world’s most famous puppet theatre: the Augsburger Puppenkiste. There are children’s performances there in the afternoon and an evening programme for adults.
• Harburg Castle : On the romantic road, the magnificent Harburg Castle towers over the town of the same name. It is considered one of the best-preserved, largest and oldest castle complexes in southern Germany and looks back on an eventful history. like hardly any other castle complex, the medieval defence system with battlements, loopholes and pouring holes and many buildings are still preserved in their original condition. The former imperial castle withstood battles, sieges and wars and served rulers as a seat of government and residence. Emperors and kings were guests here. Today, Harburg Castle and Palace has buildings from the Romantic, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods.
• Oldtown of Nördlingen and Nördlinger Ries: Around 15 million years ago, a meteorite struck, the impact crater of which is called Nördlinger Ries. In the Nördlinger Ries lies the pretty town of Nördlingen, which has a beautiful town centre with buildings from the Middle Ages. The old town is still completely surrounded by the city wall, which can be walked around. The best way to explore the old town is with a signposted historical tour, which leads to the most important sights.

Short, crisp and compact, these were 50 tips for excursions to my favourite places in Bavaria. One thing is for sure: There are still many castles and monasteries, historic old towns, natural monuments, peaks, gorges, hidden lakes and Bavarian specialities waiting to be discovered in the Free State. You can find our highlights in our recommendations for Bavaria activities . Exciting adventures await you not only in Bavaria, but all over Germany! On Abenteuer Freundschaft you will find our adventure tests, tips for outings and ideas for activities with friends , activities for two or with the family. Life is made for exploring with your favourite people! 🙂

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15 best things to do in Bavaria

Raise a stein to bavaria – germany’s largest state. touch down here to be in striking distance of the alps and soak up everything from homebrews to cold water wellness cures.

W ith the nation’s best climate, its most spectacular castles and welcoming beer gardens, Bavaria will impress you at each turn. The mellow Danube runs across it; the classic touring route that is the Romantic Road bisects it; and Germany ’s highest point, the Zugspitze, marks its most southerly border. Soak up the art and science in Munich ’s museums, brace yourself for some wild swimming in its crystalline lakes, or lace up your boots for a hiking trail in the Alps.

Main photo: Rothenburg’s town hall (Alamy)

1. See the bright lights of Munich

The Bavarian capital, Munich, is the most appealing of German cities. Its southerly location combines warmer climes with easy access to the Alps and its architecture is a happy mix of German baroque and Italian renaissance. The city’s beer halls, particularly the Hofbräuhaus, are famous, as is its annual Oktoberfest. It’s also a storehouse of art museums, with the Alte Pinakothek for paintings and the Deutsches Museum for science, and it even has a BMW Museum. Besides that, its green spaces include an expansive parkland, the English Garden, threaded by streams.

2. Tour medieval Bamberg

The world heritage city of Bamberg has 2,500 protected buildings, and is still divided along medieval lines, with the Imperial Residenz and the cathedral up on a hill overlooking the Regnitz river, while a Little Venice of wonky, half-timbered fishermen houses lines the opposite bank. The Old Town Hall straddles the water, blushing with frescoes and frilly with rococo balconies. Of the nine breweries within the city walls, seek out Schlenkerla, a warren of wood-panelled rooms where customers smack their lips over rauchbier — smoky beer.

3. Hike the Bavarian Alps

The foothills of the Alps is a groomed and glossy landscape of milk and honey where all the cows seem to be auditioning for Bavaria’s Next Top Heifer. The countryside is dotted with lovely lakes and laced with ancient hiking trails such as the long-distance Via Alpina. Lakes such as Tegernsee, cupped in mountains, are perfect for wild swimming. Or Starnberg, with its islands, where King Ludwig II met his mysterious death. Climb high, and you’ll come across mountain “huts”, which despite the name are substantial, offering hearty food, beer and bunk beds.

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4. Cruise through imperial cities

The Danube threads its way across Bavaria’s midriff at the beginning of its huge journey through ten countries to the Black Sea. In its top section, from its source at Donaueschingen in the foothills of the Black Forest, it is best seen from a bicycle along the towpath, with little castles and riverside inns such as at Sigmaringen. But once you get to Imperial Regensburg, which has all the atmosphere of an Italian riverside city, the luxury river cruisers take over, heading downstream towards Passau and Vienna.

5. Feel the Passion

Oberammergau, a charismatic small town in the Alpine foothills, has a worldwide reputation for its once-a-decade Passion Play. This marathon staging of the Jesus story by a cast of more than 2,000 locals and their animals dates back to a promise made by God-fearing villagers during the medieval plague and it attracts huge international audiences, despite being performed in German. Come too for the town’s frescoes on house facades and its long tradition as a community of woodcarvers. Want a 10ft Jesus statue for your back garden? This is where you’ll find it.

6. Find homebrew heaven

An ancient legal loophole in the Oberpfalz region of eastern Bavaria allows householders to make their own beer in village breweries, which they then sell in their front rooms at weekends. This bottled secret is Zoigl beer, and involves around 14 households, the majority of which are in the small towns of Windischeschenbach and Neuhaus. When open, these convivial Zoiglstubes are marked by hanging the six-pointed Zoigl star outside the front door. For beer lovers, savouring these distinctive handcrafted beers is the equivalent of tracking down an aromatic cheese in France.

7. Roam the Romantic Road

Germans love their designated tourist routes. The Romantic Road, which runs up the spine of Bavaria from Füssen to Würzburg is the classic. And it’s easy to see why it is so popular: it starts down by the castle of Neuschwanstein and then runs up through medieval half timbered towns such as Nördlingen and Dinkesbühl, the setting for many films. Fairytale Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the prettiest of the lot, perched on a hill with its multitude of tower gatehouses, its cobbled streets and its skirt of vineyards.

8. Savour Nuremberg’s sausages

Nuremberg is a name with worldwide resonance. The ancient imperial city was a favourite of Adolf Hitler, who held some of his biggest pre-war rallies here, which is why the victorious Allies held their post-war Trials here too. These days this steepled and gabled place, the colour of freshly baked pottery, is known for more innocent reasons. For being the hometown of Albrect Durer. For a massive Christmas Market, presided over by a golden-tressed Christkind. And for Nürnberger Würstchen, a particularly delicious finger-sized sausage, served by the Bratwursthäusle since 1313.

9. Climb the Zugspitze by rail

Germany’s highest point, the 2,962m Zugspitze, sits on the border with Austria. A mountain-climbing cogwheel railway sets off from near the resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and runs right up through the skin of the mountain. It emerges in a high, arid, moonlike landscape, complete with (dwindling) glacier, providing magnificent views of mountain tops echoing away in all directions. Substantial buildings on top include restaurants and a beer garden – this is Germany, after all. The actual summit is a short scramble further up.

10. Try a Kneipp cure

The Germans are the inventors of wellness tourism and take complementary medicine very seriously. Nowhere more so than in Bad Wörishofen, a health resort west of Munich which is focused on Kneipp, a cure that involves a lot of cold water, in the belief that it produces a resistance to stress and disease. That means wading in cold water and having an attendant hose you down in doses of hot and cold. It’s said to be a great help for those with nervous disorders, blood pressure and conditions such as asthma and osteoarthritis.

11. Seek out Ludwig’s castles

You may not know its name, but spectacular Neuschwanstein castle, a salvo of towers and turrets in the foothills of the Alps, was Walt Disney’s model for the castle in Sleeping Beauty . Its creator, King Ludwig II, built others too, and the pocket schloss at Linderhof is a little gem. His extravagant palace perched on an island at Herrenchiemsee is a homage to Versailles, but only the true Ludwig fan will climb up to his mountain villa at Schachen. Ludwig, who was accused of mental illness and locked up by his own government, met a sudden and unexplained death.

12. See Rothenburg’s Christmas market

The market square in the storybook town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a perfect setting for a Christmas market: half-timbered houses, medieval cobbles and the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg rising from the 50 booths. But even if you can’t get here at Christmas time, don’t panic — Rothenburg is the headquarters of a business that promotes the festivities all year round, with no fewer than four shops and a Christmas museum in town. That business is Käthe Wohlfahrt, and if you can’t get to Rothenburg, then it also has shops in Bamberg, Oberammergau and Nuremberg.

13. Pay your respects at Dachau

In the northern Munich suburb of Dachau, easily reached on public transport, is a devastating memorial to the cruelty of Second World War. The Dachau concentration camp, created by the Nazis as early as 1933, was a prototype for those that followed. Although it wasn’t an extermination camp, at least 32,000 inmates died here from beatings and starvation and ovens had to be installed to dispose of the bodies. There’s a permanent exhibition detailing the camp’s history, plus harrowing testimonies about life within its fences.

14. Try the wine of Würzburg

Although Bavaria is predominantly a beer region, its northern department, Franconia, happens to be one of Germany’s foremost wine destinations. Stand on the old stone bridge across the river Main in Würzburg, and the wall of vineyards on the Steinburg slopes is barely a stone’s throw away. In fact one of the winemakers, 700-year-old Bürgerspital, has its fermentation vats and cellars right in town. And it’s unique in being a charitable foundation, so that every bottle it sells helps support care homes and a thousand needy townspeople.

15. Explore Bavaria’s placid lake

The gentle warm waters of Lake Chiemsee constitute the perfect family playground — within its 85 sq km are islands, rental boats, beaches and cycle routes, all against a backdrop of the Alps. An elegant fleet of ferries criss-cross the lake and serve the two main islands, the Herreninsel and the Fraueninsel. He spent just nine nights here, sitting in his Hall of Mirrors and reading by the light of 1,848 candles.

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• The 10 Most Beautiful Towns...

The 12 Most Beautiful Towns in Bavaria, Germany

No doubt about it, Bavaria’s one heck of a beauty, filled with all the photogenic attractions that evoke Germany in an instant: time-warp castles with pencil towers; lakes of transparent Alpine clarity; extravagant buildings in ornate and swirly Baroque style; enormous tankards of foaming ale at the Oktoberfest – Munich’s festival of beer – and those half-timbered homes straight out of Hansel and Gretel.

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Bavaria is a traveler’s paradise, drawing millions of visitors annually to towns rich in regional heritage and cultural traditions. Are you in a Bavaria state of mind already? Here are the most beautiful towns you should visit on your Bavarian travels. Have a great trip – or gute Reise , as they say in Germany.

Historical Landmark

One of the finest vacation destinations in southern Germany, Füssen has a history spanning 700 years, and has been on the map of must-visit Bavarian places for centuries. It’s at the southern end of the tourist-loved Romantic Road , which runs for 400km down from Würzburg, through picture-book scenes of beauty: lakes, vineyards and time-honoured half-timbered homes with window-boxes erupting in displays of floral pink. Until the demise of the industry in the 19th Century, Füssen was famed for its lute and violin-making – take a look at some of the finest historic specimens in the town museum. Check also what’s on at The Kaisersaal: concerts are part of the Füssen’s permanent cultural repertoire. What else? The romantic old town is famously lovely-looking, framed by dramatic mountain peaks and freshwater lakes, and perfect for visits to Neuschwanstein Castle.

4. Regensburg

This vibrant medieval town (and Unesco World Heritage Site ) on the banks of the Danube is home to an impressive assortment of historic structures spanning two millennia – it was founded in AD179, during the rule of the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the Danube becoming essentially the Roman Empire’s northern border. The legion camp Castra Regina, aka the “fortress by the river Regen”, where it joins the Danube, was Regensburg’s very first footprint. In AD590 it became the first capital of Bavaria, playing host to numerous dukes, kings and bishops down through the centuries. Thankfully, Regensburg was spared the tragic devastation visited upon other cities during the wars, so today, it retains many architectural head-turners that illustrate how it must have looked during its zenith. Don’t miss the Roman City Gate, or Porta Praetoria, and the 12th-Century Old Stone Bridge, with its 16 arches marching over the Danube: a triumph of Medieval engineering.

5. Würzburg

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

Author Hermann Hesse once wrote of this town: “If I could choose my place of birth, I would consider Würzburg “, and the moment you clap eyes on it, it’s easy to understand why. It is an upbeat university town of outstanding beauty, rippling with Baroque facades in its elevated position on a hill amid landscapes of vineyards. The history dates back to 686, when it was a Franconian duchy and a pilgrimage point. Similarly today, the scenic town has much to offer to visitors. One of the high points is the Würzburg Residence, commissioned in 1720 by the Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn, who summoned architects from across Europe to build his palace. There are frescoes by the great Italian artist Tiepolo, no less. Würzburg remains one of the most prominent blossomings of Baroque architecture in Germany. Coincidentally, it is also right in the heart of the country’s wine-producing region , making it a superb place to sample local fruits of the vine – the local wine culture dates back to Roman times. Look out for Silvaner and Bacchus grape varieties, and toast your good fortune for finding this town.

6. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

You couldn’t get a much-more-perfect day trip from nearby Nuremberg than Bamberg , a fascinating town with an Altstadt (old town) that, sure enough, has been anointed by Unesco as a World Heritage Site . It spreads over seven hills where numerous rivers and winding canals converge, a setting that explains why it is repeatedly voted among the most beautiful settlements in Germany. Bamberg’s narrow medieval streets are catnip for day-trippers, who idle away their time in its many pavement cafés, sampling local beer from its myriad city breweries. But there’s plenty of eye candy if you’re here to gain a historical perspective: the four-spired cathedral, the Baroque Residenz (residences) and the old Rathaus (town hall) will fill your Instagram feed faster than you can say “ wunderbar “.

Architectural Landmark

Where three rivers – the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz – meet, you’ll discover Passau. The Venice of Germany, as it’s sometimes called, is a picturesque town that has been shaped by water down through the centuries. It has always been a wealthy hub of commerce, known for trading Bohemian salt (Central Europe’s white gold), as well as its close ties to the Holy Roman Empire – a church has stood here since the fifth century. The quaint town was deemed incredibly prestigious long ago for being the largest bishopric in the land, exquisitely built by powerful princes and bishops to form the winding lanes, tunnels and grand archways, many of which still stand today. A perfect spot to visit for a day on a river cruise, Passau also appeals to avid cyclists for its abundance of long-distance routes.

9. Oberammergau

More of a village than a town, this small alpine community is, from a distance, just another charming rural Bavarian town. However, Oberammergau is known across the country for its esteemed history in woodcarving, its beautiful fresco-painted houses and its NATO training centre. This place really punches above its weight once every 10 years, though, when the local population puts on their decennial ‘ passion plays ‘, enacting the death of Christ. Around 5,000 people live in Oberammergau, but passion play season has seen as many as half a million visitors flock to the village in the past. The tradition has been running since the 17th century, the plays now having a season once every 10 years, with local men growing their beards in preparation a year in advance, and most of the village coming together to put on the shows. You’ll have to wait until 2030 for the next production , but Oberammergau is worth a visit any time. Other shows run all year round, the village itself is a delight, and its well-placed position on the German Alpine Road makes it a convenient stop when visiting the nearby Linderhof Castle and Ettal Abbey . Recommended by Gethin Morgan.

10. Berchtesgaden

There are predominantly three things bringing visitors to this spectacularly scenic resort town in the most southeasterly nook of Germany. The first is easy access to some of the country’s best ski slopes, not to mention nearby Austria’s. The second is that it’s the final stop on the aforementioned German Alpine Road , one of Europe’s prettiest driving routes. The third is Berchtesgaden’s historical significance. Perhaps as a result of reasons one and two, this unassuming town became a hub for holiday homes and mountain retreats among the very upper echelons of the Nazi party, with the likes of Goebbels, Himmler and Hitler himself all owning properties here. This naturally meant that Berchtesgaden became a key seat of political power, a place where meetings were held and decisions were made. It is also watched over by the infamous Eagle’s Nest compound, set atop Kehlstein mountain. The darkness of this town’s modern history contrasts so strangely with its peaceful nature and scenic surrounds – this is without doubt one of the most beautiful towns in Germany, but it’s also one of the most historically fascinating. Recommended by Gethin Morgan.

11. Dinkelsbühl

The historical town of Dinkelsbühl is located in Central Franconia on the northern stretch of the Romantic Road. According to many historians, it is the best-preserved medieval town in Germany, having remained totally unscathed during the World Wars, except for a broken window in the gothic cathedral of St. George. The unspoiled townscape harks back over 800 years and is filled to the brim with striking churches, proud townhouses and timbered cottages among its many winding lanes.

12. Mindelheim

Shaped by hundreds of years of history, Mindelheim is a journey of discovery in the heart of the Unterallgäu district. Located 56 miles (90 kilometers) west of Munich , it is the perfect stop on the way to Lindau. The town’s earliest history officially dates from 1365, when it came into the possession of the Dukes of Teck-Owen, but it was soon passed into the hands of the Württemberg counts. Today, Mindelheim reflects the structure of a typical medieval settlement, with its partially standing city wall, its array of churches and the town hall arranged around the market square.

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20 of The Best Things to do in Bavaria

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Get ready to be blown away by Bavaria! These are the most amazing things to do in Bavaria that will inspire you to visit Germany.

When telling people we were traveling to Germany this summer, we didn’t exactly get the “ wow ” reception we usually do with places like France or Italy. But after spending 10 days exploring the jaw-dropping region of Bavaria, we can guarantee that a trip to Germany will rival any European vacation you have ever fantasized about.

Germany doesn’t have that romanticized reputation that other European destinations have but when you step foot in Bavaria, you’ll be transformed to a fairytale destination that will stay with you for years to come.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Bavaria Germany

The best way to get around Bavaria is by car, you can compare rental car prices at CarRentals.com

1. Explore Munich

We only had one day in Munich and it definitely wasn’t enough. But the best way to make the most of it is to take a cycling tour with Radius Tours.

Our guide Tim was born in Germany and grew up in both the United States and Kenya . He shared awesome facts about Munich and the history of the city. We saw all the top Munich attractions and historic sites as well as the downtown area and old town. And cycling was a fantastic and leisurely way to get around the city. Read more: Best Things to do in Munich, Germany

We highly recommend this tour as we managed to see most of the things to do in Munich that you see on all the lists and we only had 24 hours in the city! If you don’t take a tour, at least make your way to Marienplatz to see the magnificent main square and have a beer at Hofbrau house for a beer. It’s Munich’s largest beer hall and while it is touristy, it’s a must stop for first-time visitors.

Check out our video for more things to do in Munich.

Where to Stay in Munich

We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn at Munich City West. It is close to the metro and is just two stops from the main square.

2. Neuschwanstein Castle

It’s the fairytale castle you’ve always dreamed about. Located an hour and forty-five minutes from Munich, Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bavaria.

But we suggest staying overnight in the area to get an early start. We arrived for sunrise and had the place all to ourselves. This is pretty rare for one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.

How to Visit to Neuschwantstein Castle

By arriving well before sunrise, we drove right up to the restaurant at the top of the mountain and had a short walk to the castle. Once everything opens, cars are not allowed to drive up there and you either have to hike or take a horse carriage to the castle.

We managed to get a fantastic drone shot, but had to go off the property and fly from a field. No drones are allowed on the premises of Neuschwanstein Castle.

3. Hopfensee

The nearby village of Hopfensee was a beautiful and peaceful stop after the chaos of Neuschwanstein.

Hopfensee is a lovely place for lunch overlooking the warmest lake in the upper Bavarian Alps. There is a boardwalk along the waterfront and you can hike around the lake with the gorgeous views of the Bavarian Alps in the background.

Where to stay

We didn’t stay in this area, but we wish we did. I could have spent another full day exploring, hiking and checking out the castles near Hopfensee and Neuschwanstein.

Think the village of Hohenschwangau located below the castle of Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle would make for a great base. Check out the new Ameron Alpsee Neuschwanstein Resort and Spa located at the foot of both castles.

4. Chill Out in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

After our time at Hopfensee, we drove directly to Garmisch Partenkirchen where we made our base for a couple of days. There are so many things to do here that it warrants its own post, but here are some of the very best highlights from our time there.

Read our full post: Things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen

5. Visit the 1936 Olympic Village

The town was home to the 1936 Winter Olympics and there are still relics of the Olympic village including the renovated ski jump center. But people come to this town for hiking or skiing and with good reason, the Alps here are stunning.

6. Marvel at the Alpspix

There are many gondolas that will take you into the mountains, but the Alpspix has them all beat. The viewing platform consists of two dizzying curved walkways leading out over a 1000 meter drop (3000 feet).

It offers staggering views of the surrounding mountains and an overhead view of Garmisch. If you buy a ticket for the Garmisch Classic, you can decide how you want to get back down.

Be sure to take the first gondola up to beat the tour buses. Like most of our trip to Bavaria, we had the place to ourselves because we were willing to get up at the crack of dawn to beat the crowds.

The Alpspix was a highlight of our time in Bavaria and gave us some of the best views.

7. Take the Rail to Germany’s Highest Peak

Take the Cogwheel train up to Germany’s Highest Peak, the Zugsptize. There are many hiking trails to explore, so you can make a day of it and go hiking high in the Alps all around the area. There is even a trail that connects the Alspix to Zugzpitze.

You can also take another gondola to Hochalmbahn on a different part of the mountain to enjoy a leisurely downhill walk for 30 minutes before you hop on the last gondola that takes you back to the parking lot.

8. Take a Walk Along Partnach Gorge

We had seen many people recommend the Partnach Gorge when in Garmisch, but we didn’t know how truly magnificent it was until we saw it with our own eyes.

This gorge is a powerful display of water crashing through deep caverns. The narrow walkway is an adventure along the rushing water with only a couple of metal cables between you and the gorge. It is loud, it is wet, it is a bit scary, but it is truly amazing.

I am so glad that we made the time to take this hike. If you only have a short time, you can walk out and back, but if you have a day, continue on and do a round trip to explore more of the trails.

Where to Stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Gastehaus Maria  is conveniently located in the old city. It is family run and has the most extraordinary views. We loved sitting on our balcony marveling at Germany’s highest peak while sipping a beer bought from their honor bar for a very reasonable 2 Euro.

Gastehaus Maria : Zoeppritzstrasse 20 82467 Garmisch Partenkirchen

Other must-dos in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

• Zugspitze – The Highest Peak in the German Alps
• Ettal Abbey – A beautiful Abbey just a short drive out of town.
• Linderhof Palace – King Ludwig’s smallest palace, but also the only one he saw finished.

Read our full guide to Garmisch at 14 Amazing Things to do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

9. Explore Castle Herrenchiemsee

If you are a fan of the Palace of Versailles , you are going to love Castle Herrenchiemsee. King Ludwig II was a fan of Versailles and modeled his dream castle after it.

We caught the first boat out at 6:40 am and explored the grounds in complete privacy. Nobody else was on that boat save for a few staff. The castle and grounds are huge and it’s beautiful to explore. But be warned, the mosquitoes are tyrants and we wished we brought our bug spray with us.

Nothing opens until 9:00 am, so if you do arrive early, you won’t have anything to do but marvel at the statues and fountains, take photographs and wander the paths.

Make a day of it and explore the nearby islands. It’s worth making a day of it and taking the ferry over to the neighboring island of Fraueninsel to see the monastery that is still inhabited by Benedictine nuns.

Where to Stay in Prien am Chiemsee

Hotel Bayerischer was one of the more chic hotels we stayed in during our time in Bavaria. It’s located right downtown and has two fabulous restaurants. I wish we had two nights there, but alas, there is so much of Bavaria to see!

Hotel Bayerischer Hof Bernauer Straße 3 83209 Prien am Chiemsee

10. Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is another popular destination in Bavaria that makes for a great home base. Located along the Austrian border, it houses some very extraordinary peaks. There are many things to see in the area, so be sure to spend a day or two.

Where to Stay in Berchtesgaden

We took a reprieve from our road trip and enjoyed our time here at the Alpenhotel where we took advantage of the spa and a tasty restaurant. But there are a few things to do in the area as well including hiking, exploring the salt mines and lake cruises.

Alpenhotel Fischer Königseer Straße 51 83471 Berchtesgaden

11. Hintersee

Hintersee is a picturesque lake located just 20 minutes from Berchtesgaden. It’s also one of the most photographed places in Bavaria. We had a lot of early mornings in the region to

12. Eagle’s Nest

Eagle’s Nest is famous because it was the headquarters of Nazi meetings between Hitler and his top brass. It was designed to instill fear and show power with an impressive copper elevator cut through the mountain to take people to the top. Most of Eagle’s Nest was destroyed and even the stones from the fireplace (a gift from Mussolini to Hitler) were taken by allied forces.

People are intrigued to go because it is said that Hitler spent a lot of time there, but he avoided the place due to his fear of heights and he never did spend the night there.

This is a major stop on all the tour bus routes and if you don’t arrive early, you will be stuck waiting up to two hours to get a spot on the shuttle that takes you to the elevator. When you get to the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views, but you can have those views anywhere in the Alps of Germany.

It may have been a Nazi retreat but today it is a restaurant and beer garden and any relic that dates back to the days of Hitler were either destroyed or looted.

13. Kuchlsbauer Brewery

Bavaria has approximately 1500 breweries, so choosing a brewery tour can be daunting. But if you are looking for something unique, the Kuchlsbauer Brewery  in the town of Abensbert is definitely one of the more unusual things to do in Bavaria!

It is located between Munich or Nuremberg and makes a good day trip from either.

This place reminded us of something Antonio Gaudi w ould have designed.Our tour started in Kunst Haus, a display dedicated to the works of Friedensreich Hundertwasser, one of the most important Austrian artists of his time.

Kunst Haus is a unique design by Peter Pelikan, a Viennese architect who worked with Hundertwasser and kept the buildings around the brewery in the vein of Hundertwasser’s style.

14. Kuchlbauer Tower

The other highlight of the tour is the Kuchlbauer tower that was designed by Hundertwasser himself! It was originally going to be 70-metres high but was not allowed to be higher than the church steeple.

Following the death of Hundertwasser, Peter Pelikan forged on with his wishes and built the tower that today sits at about 35 meters high.

While the brewery tour itself is interesting, it’s the gallery and the tower that are truly impressive. This is certainly one of the most unique places to visit in Bavaria.

When you are done touring, be sure to stick around the beer garden for a bratwurst and beer. A true Bavarian tradition.

15. Befreihungshalle

A strange stop on our Bavarian tour was Liberation Hall. This monument was commissioned by King Ludwig I to commemorate the victory over Napolean. It is a solitary monument sitting high on a hill filled with striking winged statues representing the Goddesses of victory.

16. Weltenburg Abbey  – World’s Oldest Monastery

We continued on through our Bavaria tour to Weltenburg Abbey located on the Danube River. The monastery boasts the claim to fame of being the oldest monastery in the world dating back to 620. Certainly making it one of the oldest Bavaria points of interest on our trip!

17. World’s Oldest Brewery

It also houses the world’s oldest brewery in the main square. Be sure to go for a tour and grab a beer while you are visiting the Abbey. You can sit in the square and order a traditional Bavarian meal of schnitzel or bratwurst with your beer.

18. Danube Gorge Boat Tour

It’s busy during the day and the main draw is the boat tours along the river to explore the Danube Gorge. You can catch boats directly at Weltenburg Abbey, but be sure to ask if it returns. Some boats only go one way. The Danube Gorge is a designated nature reserve that is considered one of the most impressive portions of the Danube River.

Where to Stay

If you are looking for something unique, you can stay at Saint George’s monastery right in the Weltenburg Abbey.

Everything closes at 7pm, so it will feel a little strange to be in the square with nobody around. Even the staff of the hotel goes home at night. But there is an honor bar for food and drink and you can get up early to see the views free from crowds.

19. Nuremberg

When planning what to see in Bavaria, be sure to add Nuremberg on to your list. This fascinating ancient walled city packs a punch and there are many things to see and do. Read more: Fantastic Things to do in Nuremberg Germany

A highlight for us was taking the underground tour to explore the cellars of the city. This underground maze of tunnels once housed the cities beer keeping it cool and ready to drink. During WWII the cellars were used for safety during the air raids as Nuremberg was heavily hit during the conflict.

20. Documentation Centre and Nazi Party Rally Grounds

Nuremberg was hit so heavily because it was here that Nazi Rallies attracted up to 1 million people at a time. The city played a huge part in helping Hitler rise to power as he used it for his base of Nazi propaganda.

We didn’t think we’d spend much time at the Documentation Centre but it ended up being a gripping display honoring those where were victimized and murdered by the Nazi regime. It also demonstrates how Hitler rose to power and discusses what happened to the Nazis after the fall of the party.

It is difficult to experience these types of museums, but it is also important to see to remind us all how fragile freedom is and to never forget how quickly civilized societies can become tyrants.

If you want to learn more about this part of Germany’s history make sure to take a trip to the Dachau Concentration Camp near Munich when you are traveling to Bavaria.

Where to stay in Nuremberg

The Adina Apartment Hotel  was a great location in Nuremberg located right beside Germanic National Museum, the City Wall and just a short walk to the old town. It was modern, had a swimming pool, parking, and a great lounge.

21. Enjoy the Medieval City of Volkach

Franconia is Bavaria’s wine country located just a couple of hours outside Nuremberg. Located in Northern Bavaria, it is a picturesque destination that promotes quiet and romantic getaways for couples searching for delicious food and peaceful retreats.

Volkach is the town we based ourselves in and it is a lovely place that escaped allied bombings. With

22. Go for a Canoe Trip on the Old River Main

Being Canadian, this was definitely a highlight of our time in Franconia. It was the easiest paddling we’ve ever done with the canoe trip being downstream all the way!

Waterwalker Canoe center offers rentals that you can take out for the day to float down the River Main. The best part is, they offer regular pickups along the route, so you never have to paddle upstream.

The trip takes you through wine country where you will see vineyards, monasteries, and mansions lining the riverbanks. Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and make a day of it on the water. It’s one of the most romantic things you will do in Bavaria.

Book your tour today with Whitewalker Canoe

Where to Stay in Volkach

Romantikhotel Zur Schwane was a great historic hotel in the town centre that had a chic and modern design. It felt exactly what things should feel like in wine country. They can arrange tours and there’s a fantastic restaurant attached to the hotel.

Romantikhotel Zur Schwane Hauptstraße 12 97332 Volkach

What to do in Bavaria – The Video

Book your Flight to Bavaria, Germany

We flew with Condor Air to Frankfurt and found it to be an amazing budget alternative to the large airlines. Business class was a reasonable upgrade and they even offered people in coach upgrades on the day of the flight for 250 Euro. The service was excellent and with 170 degrees (“nearly”) lay flat seats, we slept like babies.

Condor offered us the same first class service at a fraction the price. We had a champagne welcome drink, a selection of wines and cheese, delicious meals (seriously, the pasta was the best I’ve had on a long haul flight. We’ll definitely be looking into Condor for our future flights to Europe.

Map of Bavaria Attractions

Click here for a link to our Bavaria Attractions on Google Maps

Bavaria is fascinating. It is the oldest state in all of Germany making for an interesting historic tour of the country. It’s also the largest state housing the jaw-dropping German Alps, vineyards, forests, and countless lakes.

If you are looking for something different for your vacation, this summer in Bavaria is something you’ll never forget.

• Things to do in Garmisch Partenkirchen
• Top Historical Places to Visit in Berlin
• Where to Stay in Amsterdam
• Unique Vienna Attractions You Didn’t Know You Could Do

Our trip to Bavaria was sponsored by the Germany Tourism Board, for more information on Travel to Germany visit their website for travel ideas. 

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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19 thoughts on “20 of The Best Things to do in Bavaria”

Amazing blog, please keep on writing blogs like this, I like to read blogs like this, It is really amazing and interesting, also fun to read.

It was perfect the first time. I learn so much from you as well! Keep it up great post.

I loved ‘The Medieval City of Volkach’ . Its great place. I read your article. Its amazing. Thank you for sharing this information.

Bavaria is one of the most popular and most scenic travel destinations in Germany. Thanks for sharing your experience in Bavaria.

thank you for sharing this information .it is very good blog.and it is very helpful for me . so thank you once again

After going to Berlin a few years ago, I was a little less excited to see other parts of Germany. But the lure of Neuschwanstein Castle, a childhood bucket list item, brought me there. It was breathtaking and worth the visit, as were the other areas I saw in Bavaria. It is now in my soul and I’m eager to get back. Great opening to this post as I am sure many people feel the same! I loved Munich and can’t wait to see more of that area.

thank you for sharing this information. it is very good. and it is very helpful for me.

The first two paragraphs of this post is exactly what I thought about traveling to Germany…until I was there. I was fortunate enough to visit my cousin and his wife while he was stationed in Ramstein Air Base. Bavaria is beyond beautiful. It is a place I highly recommend people add to their travel list and a place I hope to return to.

your blog is very informative.thanks for your great post.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is my home-town and your post is just the best ad for Bavarian tourism. Thanks a lot!

love Bavaria, After reading your Article I will definitely plan my next holiday to go there.

Very Nice Post, Thank you for Sharing. Love to Go to Germany Once.

Great Post. thanks for sharing.

This is a part of the world that I would love to visit, but haven’t made it to yet. Neuschwanstein Castle is an obvious draw card but I would love to get up into the mountains and to visit some of the small historic villages of the area. Thanks for this great guide.

I look forward to doing some traveling in the near future as arbiters the keys a few good things recently. I need to get away and set my mind free because things are going through now is virtually running my mind up wall. I doubt that I’ll get to Bavaria, but I may make a second round back to Santa Barbara, California in the near future just to enjoy a weekend all to myself. 🙂

Neuschwanstein Castle is awesome

Informative post. I will definitely try

Absolutely love Bavaria. The architecture is nothing short of fantastic. The castles and that view at Hopfensee are glorious. I’m sure you enjoyed yourselves a lot. I’m adding Bavaria to my bucket list. Thanks for a great post. All the best in your travels!

Great Post. Thanks for sharing

Visit Bavaria!

Be it the Bavarian Forest, the Fichtel mountains and the Alps, Lake Chiemsee, Lake Constance or the Danube. Be it castles like Neuschwanstein and Linderhof or cool urban flair. Be it Munich or Nuremberg, Bamberg or Amberg. Oktoberfest and Bavarian folk music. Silvaner wine and wheat beer. Pretzel and Weißwurst sausages. Bavaria is more.

Bavaria is an attitude to life. Relaxed and cosmopolitan. Rooted in its homeland and innovatively free-spirited. We Bavarians love our traditions and therefore like to turn them upside down from time to time.

This website provides plenty of ideas and tips for your holiday in Bavaria.

You always want to know when new stories for your visit in Bavaria go online? Then sign up for our Bavaria Newsletter!

Along the Wall!

Street art is the modern version of fresco painting. The European graffiti era began in Bavaria in 1985, more precisely at Geltendorf train station. We take you on an artful journey from 250 metre long XXL murals to Invaders mosaic miniatures and tiny stencils to fresco paintings and the Holy Virgin on ceiling plaster. And we reveal where you can best admire this open-air art. Click here for all stories and tips

You have to see it!

Street art makes grey walls blossom! 18 graffiti tips throughout Bavaria

Alpine Graffiti

Fresco Painting from 1748 to 2024. A visit to the open-air gallery

Munich's Street Art Spots

We cycle with artist Thomas Neumann to Munich's most casual street art spots

Sacred art on the ceiling. Munich walk with artist Thomas Neumann

Inspiration and Tips for Your Visit in Bavaria

Our reporters are out and about for you on foot, by bike, in a canoe, by train and on skis, collecting the best stories and travel inspirations from all regions of Bavaria. Click here for over 135 reports and 90 listicles

Lovely Landsberg

Lots of greenery, Italian flair and art on the border between Upper Bavaria and Bavarian Swabia. Our reporters discovered Landsberg am Lech

16 x Summer Tobogganing Fun

Summer tobogganing is like riding a rollercoaster - only in the great outdoors. Into the bend, out of the bend. 16 tips for Bavaria

16 Wonderful Boat Trips in Bavaria

Bavaria's lakes and rivers invite you to go on excursions. Whether electric-powered ship, nostalgic paddle steamer, sailing yacht or raft, your choice

There’s more than meets the eye!

Lichtenfels on the Obermain was once a stronghold of the basket trade. It stands for innovation and high-tech. We had a good look around the town

Beautiful Views!

Colourful paintings on house facades turn some places into veritable open-air galleries. We travelled around Upper Bavaria with artist Bernhard Rieger

City tour through Nuremberg

A colorful city walk from Gostenhof via Rosenaupark and Hesperidengärten to Wöhrder See Lake. Together with two real insiders

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Street Art in Bavaria

Street art makes grey concrete blossom! Subways and building façades in Bavaria are pimped up legally, often on public commission. 18 must-sees!

Straubing at its finest

Straubing is considered the heart of Old Bavaria. The city has much more to offer than just a beautiful façade. Come with us on our tour

Small-town Charm

With actor and cabaret artist Thorsten Siebenhaar on an exploration tour through his Ansbach, on the trail of a deeply relaxed attitude to life

Rothenfels on the Main River

Rothenfels am Main: What does the smallest town in Bavaria look like? Our reporter took a look around, and not just on a guided tour with the mayor

Take it easy!

The town of Donauwörth is very chilled out and without any hustle and bustle. A day between colorful facades, dolls, sweets and beer

Right in the thicket of it

Waldkirchen lies deep in the Bavarian Forest and turned out to be a real surprise during our visit, culturally, scenically and historically

Pompeii on the Main River

In Obernburg am Main, a town stands on top of its predecessor. Two layers of cities on top of each other. This is unique in its form. Let's visit

10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

This listicle introduces you to all ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bavaria, i.e. monuments, architectural ensembles and cities

We're queer!

The Schwuhplattler are the world's first and only gay association that is completely dedicated to the Bavarian folk dance "Schuhplattler"

The world of film and TV

The Bavaria Film Studios near Munich are among the largest and most renowned film and television studios in Europe

Family Ski Fun

Insider tip for families, with double chairlift, four T-bar lifts, four conveyor belts, pistes around 5 km long, junior ski circus and toboggan run

Pack your swimming costume!

Comfortable and child-friendly: the Lindau family youth hostel is located between Lake Constance, mountain peaks and vineyards

Nebelhorn: Peak Pleasures

Winter paradise on the Nebelhorn: off-piste in fresh snow and a night in the "Igloo Lodge" at 2,000 metres. You can't experience more winter in 24h

Experience Bavaria With Our Insiders!

Our Bavaria insiders deal creatively, innovatively and against the grain with crafts, culture, tradition, and enjoyment in a Bavarian way. They produce pottery, distil spirits, make wine, brew beer, devote themselves to street art and Lüftl painting.

They protect nature and the alpine pastures, look after the health of our guests, blacksmith cowbells, design fashionable traditional costumes or tattoo Lederhosen. Get to know our insiders and their life in Bavaria here in their profiles

Daniela Dotzauer and Bernhard Reichherzer

Every July, the three-day Blasius Festival in Fremdingen brings people of all ages together to dance.

Small beads, great art

Traditional, hand-knitted “Perlbeutel” or “beaded bags” are a near-forgotten traditional costume accessory. Claudia Flügel-Eber has brought them back

Mask carver Timm Buckley

The scary masks made by Timm Buckley are sure to give you goosebumps at festivals such as Perchtenläufen, Walpurgisnacht or Johannesfeuer

Crafted carnival mask by Anton Ostler

Between Epiphany and Shrove Tuesday, wild men bearing strange names move through Mittenwald, their faces hidden behind beautifully crafted masks

Alpine graffiti by fresco painter Bernhard Rieger

Vast pictures shine out from the walls of old buildings in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. This is known as “Luftmalerei”, or fresh air painting

Fine local dining

Chef Stefan Fuß focuses on regional-sustainable cuisine with local producers. For this, his restaurant in Rohrbach received the Green Michelin star

Elisabeth Stiglmaier introduces guests to the secrets of the green gold, which helps give beers all over the

Fruit farmer Roland Schmitt

The view from the Walberla is most beautiful at the time of the cherry blossom. Fruit grower Roland Schmitt preserves species-rich orchards here

Radically sustainable

Felix Schneider's "Etz" in Nuremberg holds two Michelin stars. He relies on sustainably-sourced products and believes in "culinary mindfulness"

Sledge builder Alexander Hergenhan

Each year, Alexander Hergenhan from the Rhoen fashions around 150 traditional wooden sledges from domestic ash using ancient techniques

The Latest Lists: "Things to Do and See in Bavaria"

Hundreds of inspirational tips, ideas and rankings from all over Bavaria. Cultural monuments, monastery breweries, castles and palaces, hiking and cycling trails, river adventures, swimming in the wild, must-sees in over towns and cities, fun for kids, Kneipp holidays and truly crazy museums. Over 90 "Let's go" Listicles provide all this at a glance.

Bavarias 16 most beautiful waterfalls

When water runs riot in the vertical: 16 roaringly beautiful tips. From the highest waterfall in Germany to the romantic Mini in Franconia

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Worth seeing in Landshut

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Bavarian for beginners

This wonderful term can be heard in Franconia. It means as much as "gnawed-off chicken leg". The chicken itself is called Giegerla.

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Find the best holiday and travel stories interactively. And the best hotel near your holiday destination? Interested in where our Bavaria-insiders have their workshops, shops and restaurants and guide you through nature? Want to find out what reports there are on the Bavarian regions and cities? Our Bavaria map shows it all.

Bavaria in 100 Seconds

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A 100-second declaration of love to the beauty and uniqueness of Bavaria as a travel destination in the usual traditionally different way: Bavarian Comedian Harry G, who is known for his Bavarian grant, embarks on a criss-cross journey through Bavaria.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

10 Beautiful Places To Visit In Bavaria, Germany

Simon Schacherl / Shutterstock

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• History and Culture
• Seasonal Travel
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Bavaria is the biggest state in Germany: a sprawling picturesque landscape of alpine peaks, charming towns, and vast, enchanting forests that will transport you straight into a fairy-tale.

From quaint festivals to world-class celebrations like Munich’s famous Oktoberfest , Bavaria is in a near-constant state of revelry. No matter what season you visit this treasured German state, you’re sure to find something wonderful to do and see.

While there are dozens of captivating destinations in Bavaria, these are the top ten that you must visit to really get a good feel for what the region has to offer. Put some, or all, on your Bavarian bucket list. You will not regret it!

MNStudio / Shutterstock

1. Konigssee Lake

The enthralling emerald waters of Konigssee Lake are one of the finest places to visit in Bavaria — and the lake is only about two hours away from Munich by car. You could also take a three-hour train ride through the scenic countryside.

Konigssee Lake is home to one of Bavaria’s most iconic churches: St. Bartholomew . Built in 1697, St. Bartholomew’s Church is one of the most excellent examples of stucco work in the country. The countryside around Konigssee Lake is crisscrossed with hiking trails , and the stunning backdrop of the Bavarian Alps makes this lake a popular and restorative day trip from bustling Munich.

Jazzmany / Shutterstock

2. The English Garden

The beating heart of Munich is a superb green space that is larger than Central Park and full of lovely gardens, cafes, and Biergartens where you can experience genuine Bavarian hospitality in a pastoral setting. Munich’s English Garden is a one-of-a-kind experience designed to provide visitors with a welcome oasis from the bustling streets of Bavaria’s capital. Spend the day strolling through the lush park, and enjoy a pint and hearty meal at The Chinesischen Turm . Cyclists and joggers flock to the park to explore the nearly 50 miles of manicured paths. The English Garden is a welcome surprise and a fantastic addition to downtown Munich.

Tobias Arhelger / Shutterstock

3. Zugspitze

Outdoor enthusiasts will not want to miss the chance to marvel at Zugspitze , Germany’s highest mountain, and one of the most spectacular places in the Bavarian Alps. Although you can technically climb the Zugspitze , many people opt to take a cable car tour to the peak instead. Zugspitze towers 2,962 meters above Bavaria, so the views are nothing short of phenomenal. Take a day trip from Munich, or spend the night in Zugspitze’s charming Igloo village or one of their many ski resorts . If you love winter sports, you’ll be enchanted by the powdery slopes of Zugspitze, as well as the panoramic views of beautiful Bavaria.

JeniFoto / Shutterstock

4. Nuremberg’s Old Town

Step off the beaten path and look beyond the delights of Munich for a truly authentic and bonafide Bavarian experience. how to spend a day in Nuremberg, Germany is utterly captivating: a city that was decimated by the Nazis in the Second World War but has managed to retain its medieval charm and rise from the ashes. Nuremberg’s crown jewel is Old Town, also known as Altstadt. After World War II, the Old Town was restored to its former glory and is a popular haunt for tourists and locals alike. Nuremberg’s Imperial Castle dominates Old Town and stands as a reminder of Nuremberg’s colorful past. Visit the castle and spend the afternoon wandering the whimsical streets of the city’s famous Altstadt.

Yuri Turkov / Shutterstock

5. The Romantic Road

Driving Bavaria’s Romantic Road is the best reason to rent a car in Germany. Stretching roughly 220 miles, the Romantic Road snakes through mountains, forests, and cute alpine towns. It runs from Wurzburg to Fussen and is the best way to soak in the majestic landscapes of Bavaria thoroughly. There are plenty of places to stop on the way, and you are bound to discover true Bavarian hospitality set against a fairy-tale backdrop.

volkova natalia / Shutterstock

6. Wurzburg Residence

Dazzling Wurzburg is the jumping-off point of the Romantic Road. Before you hit the Bavarian highway, it’s worth checking out the Wurzburg Residence , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning architecture and lovely gardens. Built by Balthasar Neumann, the Wurzburg Residence is a celebration of French, Italian, and German styles and is known as an artistic marvel. Wurzburg is also known for its wine culture , and many tourists love to sip a delicate rose or pinot before making their way further into Bavaria.

Karin Jaehne / Shutterstock

7. Bavarian Forest National Park

On the cusp of the German-Czech border is a national park that celebrates Bavaria’s deep and lovely forests. Bavarian Forest National Park , a full 93 square miles of the great outdoors, is a popular destination for conservationists, nature enthusiasts, and hikers. The protected land is also home to plenty of forest creatures who enjoy the sprawling sanctuary. Since it’s right on the border of the Czech Republic and Germany, you can get to the park from either Munich or Prague. It’s about two-and-a-half hours by car from either city.

Yury Dmitrienko / Shutterstock

8. Neuschwanstein Castle

The Romantic Road ends at Neuschwanstein Castle , a stunning structure that inspired Walt Disney and stands as a testament to “Mad King” Ludwig II. Ludwig’s madness is still the subject of heated controversy today , but his genius and eye for beauty have never been disputed. Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most beautiful and iconic sights in all of Bavaria, towering high over an alpine lake. Composed of graceful spires and turrets, Neuschwanstein Castle is a miracle of imagination and opulence. After visiting the castle, why not try a Konig Ludwig Hefeweizen? Made by a local Bavarian brewery , this tasty pint celebrates the ousted Bavarian King and proves that he still holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Bavarians. Ein Prosit!

Viacheslav Lopatin / Shutterstock

9. Munich’s Marienplatz

Munich’s Marienplatz is one of the most celebrated areas of the Bavarian capital: a whirlwind of old and new cultures as well as delightful cafes and shopping. During the festive holiday months, the Marienplatz hosts Munich’s famous Christmas market, a yearly tradition for those who want to spend the end of the year in lovely Bavaria. The highlight of Munich’s Marienplatz must be the remarkable glockenspiel , whose figurines represent essential elements of German history. The glockenspiel runs its course a few times daily. Seeing the performance is a unique experience and is sure to be one of the highlights of your Munich adventure.

Also, read up on the best tips for Christmas markets in Europe according to experts .

PlusONE / Shutterstock

10. Augsburg Botanical Gardens

Augsburg is a must-visit destination on the Romantic Road. This stop on the medieval trade route is packed full of history, and you can certainly spend the day exploring its relics. While you don’t want to miss the Augsburg Cathedral , make time to see the Botanical Gardens as well. The Augsburg Botanical Gardens is a celebration of plant life from around the world. It’s organized into different areas, including a Japanese garden, rose garden, and medicinal plant garden. Anyone with a green thumb or interest in the natural world should certainly make time to visit this expansive garden.

Breathtaking Bavaria is arguably one of the loveliest spots on the planet. With a broad spectrum of indoor and outdoor activities, shopping, architecture, and culture, it’s no wonder why Bavaria is one of the most popular states in Germany. Visit for a once-in-a-lifetime trip or bucket-list-worthy adventure. See the best of this beguiling region on your next trip across the pond.

Bavaria bound? Read up on how to spend a day in Nuremberg, Germany , plus the mystery and history of the Oberammergau Passion Play .

Elizabeth Lavis is a freelance writer who spends the majority of her time traveling the world and seeing exciting and fun new places. She likes physical challenges, such as mountain climbing, and enjoys interacting with interesting people and learning to appreciate new cultures and ways of doing things. Elizabeth is curious about the world around her and is always looking for ways to make it a friendlier and more welcoming place. Read more from Elizabeth on her personal site .

11 things to know before going to Bavaria in Germany

Jul 20, 2023 • 9 min read

With top tips on safety and local etiquette, here's what you need to know before visiting Bavaria © Westend61 / Getty Images

Picture this: you’ve made it to the top of the mountain after a long hike through the Bavarian Alps .

The trail was like something out of a postcard, with lush green meadows and some friendly cows. But it’s a hot day and even the backs of your knees are sweating. Those last few kilometers were tough, and only the thought of a cold drink at the summit’s alpine hut kept you going. Only when you’re at the hut waiting in line to order do you spot the sign saying, “Cash Only”. You realize you forgot to get cash before starting the climb, and now your reward will have to wait.

In Bavaria, many restaurants and businesses still do not accept credit cards. After four years of living in the southern German state, I’m finally getting into the habit of carrying cash (but only after a disappointing hiking trip ). I’ve learned a few other things during my time here, too. 

While fairy-tale castles and beer are certainly part of Bavarian culture, there’s more to the state than the famous stereotypes. The following tips on transportation, local culture and etiquette can help ensure your visit goes smoothly.

1. Nature is accessible and must be respected

Home to the foothills of the Alps, Bavaria is naturally breathtaking. Bavarians are aware of the beautiful landscapes surrounding them, and there is an emphasis on cherishing and spending time in nature. With the mountains at their fingertips, many people plan their weekends and holidays around outdoor activities like hiking , skiing and biking. The lakes are particularly popular in summer.

If you want to get out and enjoy the natural scenery during your visit, it’s very accessible. From almost any train station, you’ll find yellow signs listing hiking trails with the difficulty level and a time estimate. Just remember that Bavarians take care of their natural surroundings, and littering on hiking trails (or elsewhere) is highly frowned upon. Avoid leaving trash behind during your adventures and always respect the nature.

2. Shops close early and are shut on Sundays

Generally speaking, conservative, religious values are upheld in Bavaria more than other parts of Germany. The state values its traditions, which is reflected in a slower pace of life. You may experience this during your visit, especially if you’re here on a Sunday and notice that many shops and businesses are closed. You’ll also be out of luck if you need to go grocery shopping on a Sunday or after 8pm on other days. Additionally, many smaller businesses and restaurants still only accept cash.

3. Bavaria is traditional but also a leader on modern technology

Bavarians may enjoy traditional values in their daily lives, but that doesn’t stop the state from being a leader in industry and innovation. Despite the slower pace of life, especially in the smaller villages, technological progress is palpable, and it’s not uncommon to spot flashy sports cars parked down remote country roads.

As the richest state in Germany, Bavaria is home to a booming economy with many internationally recognizable companies. For example, BMW, Adidas, Siemens and Audi all have their headquarters in the state.

4. Bavaria's many different regions each have their own distinct identity

Bavaria in its current form is relatively new, dating back to 1919. Until this point, the different regions were rather independent with their own culture, traditions, and cuisine.

For example, Franconia , in the northern part of the state, has a history separate from the rest of Bavaria that goes back over 1000 years. Today, many Franconians identify themselves as separate from Bavaria (and many Bavarians identify themselves as separate from the rest of Germany). The region is home to medieval cities like Nuremberg , Bamberg  and Würzberg, where there’s a rich wine growing culture dating back to Roman times. You’re more likely to find locals sipping Silvaner white wine than knocking back beer.

In the Swabian region to the west, which includes Füssen , home of the iconic Neuschwanstein castle , there’s also a distinct cultural identity. This area prides itself on rich culinary traditions, which include dishes like Spätzle  (egg noodles) and Maultaschen  (large meat-filled dumplings).

If you need proof of Bavaria’s regional diversity, just listen to the different dialects. The main dialects spoken are Fränkisch, Schwäbisch and Oberbayerisch in the south. Some Germans even have difficulty understanding the Bavarian dialects.

5. The dining culture is laid-back

You won’t need to worry about reservations in most Bavarian restaurants. While you may have to wait for a table during the busy summer months, most of the time you can simply show up, grab a seat and relax. If you’re in a busy restaurant or beer garden, it’s common to sit down next to other diners if there are empty seats at long tables.

Keep in mind that water and bread are typically not free in restaurants. Bavarians don’t normally drink water in restaurants, and when they do, it’s sparkling water from a bottle. If you don’t want to pay for water, you can try asking for “Leitungswasser” and you may be grudgingly served tap water.

6. Being a vegetarian in Bavaria is challenging

Bavarian cuisine is hearty and delicious, but it can be heavy on the meat and low on the vegetarian options. (The Schweinshaxe , an enormous hunk of roasted pork, is a staple on most menus). While plant-based fare is popular in cities like Munich, it hasn’t quite caught on in smaller villages. Sometimes it can be difficult to be sure you’re ordering a dish without meat. For example, I’ve had a waiter insist that the salad I ordered was vegetarian, and the pieces of ham were just seasoning.

If you’re vegetarian or have other dietary restrictions, it may be difficult to find suitable options on the menu. When in doubt, order the Käsespätzle , a cheesy pasta with onions. If you want a dish with vegetables, your best bet is a veggie stew, potato salad or mushrooms with dumplings.

7. Tipping is customary, but amounts vary

When it comes to tipping, there aren’t strict rules in Bavaria. Although tipping is customary, servers make a living wage and don’t depend on tips. You can generally round up to the nearest €5 or €10 mark, or if that’s a small amount, go for a 10% tip. If paying by card, the staff will typically ask you what tip you would like to leave, and then enter the total amount on the card reader machine directly at the table. It’s also fine to split the bill at the table if you’re part of a larger group of people.

8. The beer culture should be embraced

Yes, there’s truth to the stereotypes, and beer is considered a staple food in Bavaria. Indeed, drinking beer for breakfast with sausage or at work lunches is common. To fit in with locals in the beer garden, remember that you’ll need to clink glasses before sipping your beer, and it’s best to cheers with gusto. The word for “cheers” in German is “Prost” (or “Zum Wohl” if you're drinking wine), and you’ll hear these expressions often in the beer halls.

In addition, Germans insist on making strong eye contact when toasting. While the exact origins of this custom are unknown, it’s said that failing to lock eyes will lead to seven years of bad sex. Whether you believe the superstition or not, it’s best to make like the locals on this one. Another tip to know before you go is that in most beer gardens, you’re allowed to bring in your own food (just not your own drinks).

While drinking in public in Bavaria is legal and socially acceptable, the state has a zero-tolerance policy toward drugs, including marijuana.

9. Oktoberfest isn't the only local beer festival

Bustling beer gardens with overflowing glasses and larger than life pretzels are often the first image that comes to mind when thinking about Bavaria. After all, the region hosts Oktoberfest every year , which is the largest beer festival in the world.

However, Oktoberfest is not the only beer festival in Bavaria. In fact, you can experience a more authentic Bavaria by visiting one of the regional festivals, held from spring to autumn. Whereas Oktoberfest attracts more of an international, tourist crowd with the accompanying high price tags, these smaller folk festivals are where the locals go.

If you really want to take a step back in time, visit Erlangen’s Bergkirchweih , held from late May to early June. You can sip local beer under towering chestnut trees, while enjoying traditional folk music, fairground rides, and an atmosphere steeped in tradition. Expect to see everyone, regardless of age, wearing Tract, the traditional dress. Towns like Rosenheim , Straubing , and Fürth also hold annual festivals that are worth a visit.

10. You can explore the region by train

Public transit in Bavaria is fairly reliable and a great way to get around during your visit. While locals like to complain about Deutsche Bahn (the national rail company), you can generally trust the posted timetables on the  DB website and app. If you will be traveling around Bavaria for the day, the Bayern Ticket may be the way to go. This is a day ticket that lets you travel anywhere in the region with unlimited trips for 24 hours, with single and group ticket options available.

To view all of your ticket choices and plan your trips, download the  DB Navigator app from Deutsche Bahn. This useful app lets you buy tickets and view updated timetables directly from your phone.

11. Bavaria is the safest state in Germany

With the lowest crime rates in the country, Bavaria is an incredibly safe place. You can walk comfortably alone at night without any problems, and even if you happen to forget your wallet or other valuables at a restaurant, you should be able to get them back easily. While it’s always a good idea to have your wits about you while traveling, Bavaria is one place where you can let your hair down a little in terms of safety.

Bavaria is also very clean. Maybe it’s the high number of trash cans, but the region is surprisingly free of dirt and grime. The water is drinkable everywhere, unless you see a sign reading, “Kein Trinkwasser”.

In case of emergency, dial 110 for the police and 112 for fire and medical assistance.

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This Is The Ultimate Bavarian Road Trip Itinerary, & We Did It

Bavaria is a bucket list destination in Germany. Here are some of the best stops to make on your ultimate Bavarian road trip!

• Bavaria offers a deep-rooted culture and stunning beauty that will make you feel right at home in the Alps region.
• Plan your Bavarian road trip during the shoulder seasons to avoid large crowds and snowstorms for the best experience.
• From Oberammergau to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, explore charming towns, alpine lakes, and iconic castles on this memorable road trip in Germany's Bavaria region.

Before moving to Germany almost two years ago, I always had my heart set on visiting the country's castles and fairytale villages that dotted the map. The historical and beautiful Bavaria is a place with such spots, many of which are great day trips from Munich and other popular German cities. Last year, when I first stepped foot in Bavaria, nothing could have prepared me for the overwhelming feeling of being "at home" and the immense beauty of the Alps region.

Driving through the state of Bavaria, you can immediately sense the deep-rooted culture and the agrarian lifestyle in this region. In every direction I looked from the car window, I could see the green rolling countryside and jagged, snow-capped mountains incomparable to anything I've seen in the United States.

There is simply so much to see and experience here in Bavaria (plus enjoying many of Germany's festivals and Christmas markets during the holidays) that it's impossible to see everything in a few days, so I can't wait to go back this year for more! If you're visiting Germany in the near future and have a few days open, be sure to add Bavaria to your bucket list! If you fly to Munich or Frankfurt, you can easily rent a car and start your road trip through Bavaria.

Here are the highlights in Bavaria to see on a road trip that I recommend visiting while you're here (plus an extra trip to Austria)! In addition, before I dive into the Bavaria road trip stops, I've included a couple of useful things to know before actually embarking on the journey, such as the best time to do the road trip and how long is needed for the adventure.

7 Amazing One-Day Road Trips In Germany That We Recommend

7 the best time of year to take a bavarian road trip, there is a benefit to visiting bavaria during each season, so it's up to you.

Everyone has a preference for the best time to visit when traveling abroad. In Germany, I can firmly argue that every season has pros and cons.

During the spring and summer, you'll have mild temperatures and beautiful blooms, but larger crowds of tourists. In the autumn and winter, Bavaria's fall foliage and crisp air are mesmerizing and there are fewer crowds and fun festivals, but this is when heavy snowfall is forecast, and you'll most likely experience severe snowstorms and road closures.

From my experience visiting Bavaria in early November, I suggest picking one of the shoulder seasons to visit, March through May or October through mid-November. This is a good way to avoid large summer crowds and the risk of being snowed in.

6 How Much Time Should You Spend In Bavaria?

Bavaria can be explored anywhere from 3 to an average of 10 days.

Bavaria is the largest state in Germany, so there's definitely a lot of ground to cover if you want to experience everything Bavaria has to offer. However, if you only have a few days to spare or want to explore one or two regions of Bavaria, you can absolutely do a road trip in three to five days.

Also, if you have the time, I recommend staying in these locations around Bavaria for at least a night or two to ensure enough time to see and experience everything. Some Bavarian towns are small and only need an hour to see, but there are plenty of hiking trails, observation points, and gorges that are accessible via small towns.

• Best Way To Get Around: Car or train
• Average Daily Budget: $153-300 per day

5 Munich To Oberammergau

Start your road trip by heading to this charming town nestled in the alps, which captures the tradition and spirit of bavaria.

Starting from Bavaria's capital city, Munich , we're traveling south into the Alps region of Bavaria to a small town called Oberammergau.

This overly charming and beautiful town is a must-see for its traditional Bavarian chalets, lush landscape, and scenic hiking trails .

All the restaurants in the area are highly decorated and serve traditional Bavarian dishes and beers, which add even more to the cozy setting here.

• Distance: 56.3 miles
• Road Trip Length: 1 hour 9 minutes
• Major Stops: Rottenbuch, Sindelsdorf, Murnauer Moos

I Used AI To Help Plan My Honeymoon, Here's What Happened

4 oberammergau to füssen, a small town on the lech river that sits in the middle of 5 alpine lakes and 2 castles.

If you've read any of my previous articles about Germany, you'll know that I am practically in love with Füssen. This small Bavarian town sits about five minutes away from the Austrian border and is filled to the brim with hidden gems.

Füssen is also located in the center of five beautiful alpine lakes- Hopfensee, Weißensee, Alpsee, Banwaldsee, and Forggensee, which are absolute must-sees while you're here.

Feeling adventurous? The best way to experience the Bavarian Alps in Füssen is to embark on the Baumkronenweg Treetop Trail . The Treetop Trail is suspended above the forest and the Lech River and crosses the border between Germany and Austria, giving you 360° views of the Bavarian and Tyrolean Alps.

• Distance: 29.4 miles
• Road Trip Length: 42 minutes
• Major Stops: Bad Bayersoien, Forggensee

3 Füssen To Schwangau & Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein and hohenschwangau castle are can't-miss activities in schwangau.

Right next door to Füssen is a very small village named Schwangau, which is considered the residing town of both Hohenschwangau Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle, which should definitely be on your roster of bucket list castles in Germany to visit !

If you're staying for a few days to visit the castles and nearby attractions, I recommend making Schwangau your home base. There are several amazing hotels and Airbnbs in the village that are centrally located and the majority of them offer spectacular views of the castles.

Be sure to add Hotel & Restaurant Alpenstuben , Café Kainz , and Schwangau Castle Brewery to your restaurant considerations while you're here.

• Distance: 2.2 miles
• Road Trip Length: 5 minutes
• Major Stops: Lechfall, Alpsee, St. Coloman Church

Drive Germany's Romantic Road To See An Ancient Roman Route & Medieval Castles

2 neuschwanstein castle to innsbruck, this road trip to innsbruck, austria, winds through the alps and several alpine villages.

Taking a bit of a detour from Bavaria, I couldn't help but include this scenic road trip to Innsbruck, the heart of Tyrol's Austrian Alps . Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol, the western state of Austria, and is one of the most picturesque and ornate cities I've ever visited.

However, the less than two-hour road trip to get there from Schwangau is arguably even more scenic and memorable than the destination.

Travelers can easily spend less than a day exploring the city of Innsbruck. Everywhere you look, you'll see spectacular views of the Inn River, the colorful buildings and churches, and the majestic Alps in the background.

• Distance: 69 miles
• Road Trip Length: 1 hour 47 minutes
• Major Stops: Reutte, Highline 179 , Heiterwang, Zugspitze

When driving in Austria, you'll need to purchase a vignette , or a toll sticker before you cross the border. Vignettes can be found at any gas station near the Austrian border and cost under €9. If you're caught driving without one, you may receive a fine.

7 Mountain Towns To Retire In Europe

1 innsbruck to garmisch-partenkirchen, end your scenic bavarian road trip in one of the best mountain towns in germany.

Heading back north across the Austrian border into Bavaria, the best way to conclude your ultimate Bavarian road trip itinerary is in the most beloved mountain town in Germany - Garmisch Partenkirchen.

This charming town is nestled in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps and is sprinkled with decorated chalets, resorts, and a wide variety of outdoor activities.

Garmisch Partenkirchen is also a great place to enjoy skiing and snowboarding during the winter. Zugspitze Ski Resort is a paradise during the winter and offers family-friendly fun for everyone.

• Distance: 37 miles
• Road Trip Length: 1 hour
• Major Stops: Seefeld, Scharnitz, Mittenwald, Grainau

20 of the Best Places to Visit in Germany for Breathtaking Mountains, Medieval Towns, and Moving Historic Sites

From moving landmarks to charming villages, these are 20 of the best places to visit in Germany, according to experts.

Germany is filled with charming small towns, exhilarating cities, enchanting castles, historic landmarks, and famous festivities — notably Oktoberfest and the Christmas markets . With 16 states, from Bavaria to Bremen, there are a lot of different ways to vacation in Deutschland. That might look like bopping around to hilltop villages on a road trip or plopping down in a vibrant metropolis and going on some interesting day trips. Need some inspiration ahead of your first (or next) trip to the land of bratwurst and beer? We asked Liam S. Dunch, product manager, Europe at Abercrombie & Kent , and Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato , to share their top picks. Scroll on for the best places to visit in Germany.

Related: 12 Best Small Towns in Germany, From Charming Medieval Villages to Idyllic Mountain Escapes

1. East Side Gallery

Once a symbol of oppression — and an enduring reminder of Germany’s turbulent past — the concrete barrier that used to divide Berlin now serves a vastly different purpose thanks to the creation of the East Side Gallery. Artists transformed the largest remaining section of the Berlin Wall into an open-air art gallery with colorful, thought-provoking graffiti murals.

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

One of the most beautiful small towns in the world , Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an endlessly charming village along Germany’s fabled Romantic Road in the Franconia region of Bavaria. Its cobblestone lanes, half-timbered houses, churches, medieval walls, and towers look like they were plucked from a storybook.

3. Courtroom 600

Many people who visit Germany want to gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events of the 20th century. “Not only does a trip to Courtroom 600 means the chance to step inside the room where Nazi leaders were tried for their unspeakable crimes, but visitors can also watch real footage of the Nuremberg trials and learn about the legacy of the verdicts,” explains Dunch.

4. Bach-Museum Leipzig

Dunch urges lovers of classical music to make the pilgrimage to Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach composed most of his major works and spent the last 27 years of his life. The Bach-Museum Leipzig houses a collection of instruments, original manuscripts, and other memorabilia related to the German composer. 

5. Baden-Baden 

European aristocracy (including Napoleon III and Queen Victoria) have decamped to Baden-Baden, a historic spa town on the edge of southwestern Germany's Black Forest, since the 19th century. This Belle Époque resort town retains its glamorous reputation and wellness credentials, continuing to entice well-heeled travelers with thermal baths and high-class spa hotels such as Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa .   

6. Museum Island

“I always tell first-time visitors to Berlin to check out Museum Island,” says Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato . Situated in the middle of the Spree River, this architecturally stunning cultural complex houses five magnificent museums: Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and Pergamon Museum. 

7. Schloss Proschwitz

Schloss Proschwitz is a beautiful 18th-century, neo-baroque castle in the district of Meissen with elegant interiors and gardens. The estate also plays host to Saxony's oldest private winery, which invites visitors for cellar tours and tastings.  

8. Hofbräuhaus

The most famous of the many beer halls in Munich, Hofbräuhaus takes patrons back in time to an era when tokens were used to pay for steins and shares the tradition of gemütlichkeit (geniality) with visitors from around the world through live music, warm hospitality, and homemade Bavarian food.

9. Meissen's Porcelain Museum

“The medieval town of Meissen has produced fine figurines and crockery since 1710,” explains Dunch. The Meissen Porcelain Museum tells the story of Meissen porcelain through a collection of more than 2,000 objects — including ornate tables used in the royal courts of Europe in the 18th century, vases, candle holders, and intricate animal figurines. 

10. Neuschwanstein Castle 

One of Germany’s most famous and frequented attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle welcomes a whopping 1.4 million visitors each year. Travelers come from all over to gawk at the fairy-tale medieval palace and far-reaching views from atop a dramatic rocky hilltop in the Bavarian Alps. Quinn recommends booking timed-entry reservations to avoid waiting in lengthy lines.

11. Linderhof Palace

And you don't have to go far to see another stately residence. Instead of (or after) fighting the crowds at Neuschwanstein Castle, Dunch suggests visiting nearby Linderhof Palace. “It’s easy to see why this idyllic fantasy ‘hunting lodge’ was Ludwig II’s favorite getaway.”

Set on the shores of Lake Constance in Bavaria, Lindau attracts travelers with its harborfront charm and scenic views. On the itinerary? Catch sight of Switzerland across the water as you stroll the streets, check out the lighthouse, pause along Seepromenade to snap photos of the 12th-century Mangturm watchtower, and embark on a kayak excursion.  

13. Spreewald Biosphere Reserve

Tucked between Berlin and Dresden, the UNESCO-listed Spreewald Biosphere Reserve is a unique inland delta along the Spree with waterways and woodlands. It’s an idyllic setting for kayaking along the channels and soaking in the natural beauty of the area. 

14. Porsche Experience Center Leipzig

Sports car enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Porsche Experience Center Leipzig , a state-of-the-art factory and test circuit. Ready to go full-throttle? After the tour and a brief history lesson, accelerate, brake, and drift on an adrenaline-pumping drive on the circular track.   

15. Zugspitze

Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, rises 9,718 feet above sea level and stands out as a top spot for high-altitude fun and year-round recreation. The Wankbahn cable car operates from April to October, bringing visitors to Mount Wank for a homemade breakfast at Sonnenalm and far-reaching panoramas. Hiking is also popular during the warmer months, while winter brings opportunities for skiing, tobogganing, and glacier tours.

16. Baiersbronn

Baiersbronn, a quaint village in southern Germany between Strasbourg, France and Stuttgart, is the culinary capital of the Black Forest with seven Michelin-starred restaurants and even more that have earned other culinary awards. “It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch on a drive through this scenic region,” says Quinn. 

17. Therme Erding

The largest thermal bath complex in Europe, Therme Erding , located just 30 minutes northeast of Munich, draws upwards of 5,000 visitors each day. The giant water slides, wave pool, and lazy river are a hit with kids. Prefer relaxation? There’s also a classic spa and sauna area just for adults. 

18. Titisee-Neustadt

Nestled within the Black Forest in southwest Germany, Titisee-Neustadt is a local’s getaway on the lakeshore that’s beloved for family fun and access to nature. During the summer, active types love to hit the scenic trails and climb Hochfirst Mountain, while winter means skiing and sledding. Bringing the kiddos? Head to Badeparadies Schwarzwald, an indoor water park with slides, mineral pools, and saunas. 

19. Europa-Park

Travelers of all ages will have a blast at Europa-Park , a theme park in Rust, Germany with over 100 rides — including 13 thrilling roller coasters — plus a water park, live shows, restaurants, bars, hotels, a camping site, and even a wellness spa. Looking for something unique? The resort area is also home to Eatrenalin , an experience that combines fine dining with theme park technology for a totally immersive meal.

There are plenty of naturally beautiful places to visit in Germany, but few are as stunning as Eibsee. Sitting at the base of the Zugspitze, this pristine lake is filled with crystal-clear water and surrounded by alpine peaks that make it a favorite destination for boating and hiking.

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WATCH: Bayern Munich 2, Real Madrid 2, postgame analysis, highlights, more on Golazo Network

A wild match featured plenty of fireworks as things head to spain even.

Bayern Munich and Real Madrid met in the UEFA Champions League semifinals on Tuesday in a wild 2-2 draw in the first leg. Both teams scored a penalty kick, Vinicius Junior scored twice and the two sides head to Spain for next week's second leg level. Again, it was one of those matches where Real Madrid weren't at their best but they were able to grind out a victory that puts them on the verge of another UCL final appearance. 

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How Bayern got here

Bayern saw off Arsenal 3-2 on aggregate in the last eight having overcome Lazio 3-1 over two legs in the round of 16. Before that, the German dropped just two points in Group A to finish top of the pool which included Manchester United, Galatasaray and Copenhagen. The deposed Bundesliga kings are into their first Champions League semifinal since 2019-20 when they went all the way and beat fellow semifinalists Paris Saint-Germain in the final. PSG's 3-2 win in Bavaria close to three years ago was the last time that Bayern suffered a reverse in front of their home support and Tuchel would love a return to London for the Wembley final before signing off with a second UCL triumph after his Chelsea feat.

How Real got here

Real came out on top of City in the quarterfinals on penalties after a 3-3 aggregate draw against the 2023 champions. Prior to that, Ancelotti's men saw off RB Leipzig over two legs having topped Group C with a perfect tally of 18 points ahead of Napoli, Braga and Union Berlin. Andriy Lunin was the hero against Pep Guardiola's side from the spot but the truth is that it has been an impressive campaign overall so far from Los Blancos without a single continental defeat to date. Real are unbeaten across 10 consecutive UCL games which is one away from equaling their 2016-17 record so even a draw against Bayern would maintain that record. Specific to these two meeting, the Spanish giants are unbeaten across six clashes with Bayern and eliminated them in 2013-14, 2016-17 and 2017-18 -- all editions ultimately won by Real.

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Bayern: Alphonso Davies is back after his ban against Arsenal which required Noussair Mazraoui and Raphael Guerreiro to fill in admirably. Sacha Boey, Gabriel Marusic, Bouna Sarr and Tarek Buchmann are all out while Tuchel is not yet 100% certain to have Konrad Laimer or Matthijs de Ligt available. Jamal Musiala is also a doubt along with Leroy Sane, Serge Gnabry, Dayot Upamecano and Kingsley Coman but only the France international has been ruled out so far.

Potential Bayern XI: Neuer; Kimmich, Kim, Dier, Davies; Goretzka, Pavlovic; Muller, Musiala, Gnabry; Kane.

Real: Ancelotti should be boosted by Jude Bellingham's return from illness while Rodrygo and Ferland Mendy should also be back which means Thibaut Courtois and David Alaba are the only major absentees. Lunin should continue in goal while Bellingham, Rodrygo and Mendy are likely to return to the starting XI. Dani Carvajal is suspended, though, which is likely to mean a start for Lucas Vazquez in Munich.

Potential Real XI: Lunin; Vazquez, Rudiger, Tchouameni, Mendy; Valverde, Camavinga, Kroos; Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior.

This one promises to be tight with nothing sewn up after leg one and both sides have impressive records to protect. With so much on the line, a narrow Bayern win at home sounds plausible although a score draw should not be ruled out. That scenario could suit Real, though, who will fancy themselves to advance in Madrid in next week's second leg. Pick: Bayern 1, Real 0.

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