visit bavaria

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

14 Nuremberg Tips for Kids and Teens

We show you where and how a vacation in Nuremberg with kids and teenagers is particularly fun. 14 cool tips for unforgettable experiences

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

Landlord Muk Röhrl

The “Gasthaus Röhrl” has been in the hands of just one family since 1658. We met up with Muk Röhrl, who is the eleventh generation to run this inn

Innkeeper Stefan Stretz

With his bar “Schanzenbräu”, Stefan Stretz has changed the face of the former Nuremberg district of Gostenhof, aka GoHo

Winemaker Teresa Deufel

The charming winery of Teresa Deufel is located directly on Lake Constance - a meeting place for locals and visitors

Architect Peter Haimerl

Peter Haimerl breathes new life into old farmhouses. In this way, the architect saves and preservers a piece of Bavarian identity

Alpine dairyman Peter Haslach

The dairy industry is as much part of the Allgäu as the sound of cow bells. Cheese has been produced with passion in Bavaria’s oldest dairy

Master butcher Ursula Sedlmayr

Master butcher Ursula Sedlmayr has proved all her doubters wrong. She was determined to take over the family butcher’s business in Garmisch-Partenkir

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

Winemaker Katharina Geißendörfer

Winemaker Katharina Geißendörfer gives new life to her family’s Franconian winery. We accompanied her to the vineyard

The crew from "Snow White Gin"

Four young distillers from Lohr am Main use ingredients exclusively sourced from native woods for their award-winning “Snow White Gin”

Alpine Techno

Marcel Engler combines alphorn with electro beats. No lederhosen techno, but music to dance to, inspired by his homeland and the Loisach river

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

12 Tips for Remote Viewers

Look over here! You don't need high alpine peaks to see into the distance. Here are 12 great lookout towers in Bavaria for the best views

16 Winter Hiking Tours

Skis, boards and snowshoes aside! All senses are served during relaxed winter hiking. Here are 16 insider tips for tours in Bavaria

Worth seeing in Landshut

Medieval history festival, castle tour, city stroll, art exhibition. What to see and experience in Landshut. Here are 9 tips

16 Historical Festivals in Bavaria

We show how Bavaria's history comes to life again in lovingly staged parades or historical spectacles

OZULTS BUDDLASBAA

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.

Story Finder: What Can We Get You?

Delete or like and get your favourite stories

All Stories and Information on Bavaria in One Map

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

The video is not showing.

To protect your data, we use a so-called two-click solution. The cookies from YouTube are deactivated by default .

They are only loaded from the respective servers after you click on the "Accept" button. After that you can then view the video.

Find more information in our privacy policy .

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.

Where Do You Want to Go?

Holidays in the city, in the countryside, by and on the water or in the mountains?

News from Bavaria

Get first-hand tips on stories, travel reports and events!

Privacy settings

Here you will find an overview of the types of cookies used on the website. You can set your consent for each category individually. Further information can be found in the privacy policy .

• Essential Cookies For the use of the website with all functions (e.g. user settings, watch lists, etc.)
• Statistics Statistics Cookies collect information anonymously. This information helps us to understand how our visitors use our website.
• Marketing In order to provide you with the best possible offer in cooperation with our partners, we use marketing tools. For example, in order to use our chatbot, you must activate this setting.
• External contents Required for viewing external media and third-party content. The provider may set cookies for its part. The respective data protection regulations of the provider apply.

Inspiring Germany

• Cities & Culture
• Nature & Outdoor Activities
• Royal Palaces & Castles
• Experience & Enjoy
• Current highlights
• Sustainable travel
• Barrier-free travel
• Easy language
• Federal states

Bavaria - inspiration and pure attitude to life

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

Bavarian diversity

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

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

World-famous attractions

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

© BAYERN TOURISMUS Marketing GmbH

Discover more

Christmas eve: christmas tree, christ child and father christmas, baroque cities: travel back in time to the 17th and 18th centuries, strongholds of romanticism: a hotspot for medieval splendour, walk on the bottom of the sea the wadden sea, berlin museum island: concentrated culture, history museums: looking back, looking forward, explore the surroundings.

Your Trip to Munich: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Munich International Airport Guide

Best Munich Hotels

Public Transportation

Day Trips From Munich

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Top Museums in Munich

Munich's English Garden

Complete Guide to Oktoberfest

Top Restaurants in Munich

Best Beer Halls

Top Beer Gardens

Guide to Munich's Hofbräuhaus

Top 10 Things to Do in Bavaria, Germany

Achim Thomae/Getty Images 

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

Wikimedia Commons

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

Christopher Larson / TripSavvy

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

Michaelangelo Gratton/Getty Images 

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

Johannes Simon/Stringer/Getty Images 

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

TripSavvy / Maria Ligaya

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

Fred Romero/Flickr/CC BY 2.0

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

Holger Thalmann/Getty Images 

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.

The Top 23 Things to Do in Munich

Germany's 500-Year-Old Beer Purity Law

The Best Places to Photograph Neuschwanstein Castle

How to Visit Munich on a Budget

Germany's Best Scenic Drives

Germany Guide: Planning Your Trip

48 Hours in Munich: The Ultimate Itinerary

Regensburg: Planning Your Trip

The Best Cities to Visit in Bavaria: Munich and Nuremberg

The Top Places to Visit in the South of Germany

Prague: Planning Your Trip

The Best UNESCO Sites in Germany

The Best Time to Visit Munich

Weather in Munich: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

Top 10 Attractions in Germany

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 .

More on Germany

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.

You May Also Like

Where To Stay in Berlin In 2024: Best Areas And Places

17 Best Day Trips from Munich in 2024

37 Of The Best Things to Do in Munich, Germany

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

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

• Travel tips
• Photography
• Mediakit & Collaboration
• In the media
• Press releases

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

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

Hi! Wir sind Biggi & Flo

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

Discover Bavaria: Our top 10 sights at a glance

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

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

Map with all sights in Bavaria

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

[mapsmarker map=”234″]

1. Neuschwanstein Castle – Bavaria’s top attraction

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Zugspitze with Eibsee – an unforgettable nature experience

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Bamberg – Journey into the past

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

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

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

Great travel guide for your vacation in Germany

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here you can find even more great sights in Augsburg.

8. New castle Herrenchiemsee – popular excursion destination

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

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

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

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

9. Munich Residence – an imposing palace complex

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

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

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

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

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

10. Romantic Road – the perfect road trip through Bavaria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Kehlsteinhaus – popular destination in the Bavarian Alps

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

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

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

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

13. Danube Breakthrough & Weltenburg Monastery – Experience Nature

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

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

14. Felsburg Tüchersfeld – landmark of Franconian Switzerland

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

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

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

15. Steinerne Brücke Regensburg – historical sight

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

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

A pact with the devil

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

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

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

16. Großer Arber – Highlight in the Bavarian Forest

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

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

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

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

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

18. Valhalla – Greece in Bavaria

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Würzburg Residence – Highlight in Lower Franconia

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

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

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

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

Florian Westermann

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

No comments

Your opinion is important to us cancel reply.

Hast du Fragen oder Anregungen? Dann hinterlasse hier einen Kommentar – wir antworten so schnell wie möglich

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Bavaria Travel Tips

Discover Bavaria Germany

• Privacy Policy
• Places to See in Bavaria
• Bavarian Food & Drinks
• Bavaria Itineraries

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

Ultimate Bavaria Itinerary – Everything You Need To Plan Your Trip

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

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

Day 1-3 Munich

Day 1 in munich.

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

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

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

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

Day 2 in Munich

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

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

Day 3 in Munich

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

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

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

Day 4-6 Nuremberg

Day 4 in nuremberg.

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

Day 5 in Nuremberg

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

Day 6 in Nuremberg

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

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

Day 7 Bamberg

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

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

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

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

Day 8 Würzburg & Franconian Wine Villages

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

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

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

Day 8 Rothenburg ob der Tauber

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

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

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

Things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber:

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

Where to Stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber:

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

Day 9-11 Romantic Road

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to do in Füssen

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

Where to Stay in Füssen

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

Day 14 Return to Munich

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

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• New Year’s Eve
• Group Excursions
• Theme Parties
• Halloween Party
• 2 Player Games
• Family Outings
• Family Games
• Family Celebration
• Child’s Birthday
• Baden-Württemberg
• Brandenburg

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! 🙂

You don’t want to miss any more excursion tips? Then simply follow us on Facebook ,  Instagram and Pinterest . Also subscribe to our newsletter ! 😉

Note: There are affiliate links in this article. This means that if you buy a product, Abenteuer Freundschaft may receive a small commission.

Similar Posts

Franconian Switzerland Sights: 10 Best Things You Have to Do

20 Best Upper Bavaria Scenery, Attractions and Places to See

50 First Date Ideas for a Successful Extraordinary Date

Advertisement

10 Must-See Places to Visit in Black Forest – An Insider’s Tips

What should you have seen in the Black Forest? Where is it especially beautiful? You will love these places of longing, authentic old towns, thundering waterfalls, romantic mills and ruins in the Black Forest!

10 Must-See Places to Visit at the Swabian Alps

Wildly romantic and the Swabian Alps - how does that go together? From castles, rocky seas, prehistoric witnesses, Ice Age caves to the ruggedly beautiful natural landscape, this region surprises with picturesque excursion destinations!

Babelsberg Park – Discovery Tour in the Footsteps of Emperor Wilhelm I.

History meets beautiful nature. Find out what you need to know for a historical discovery tour through Park Babelsberg.

Hellsee Hike Around the Wild Lake - A Varied Nature Experience

A wild lake, marshes flooded with light, primeval beech forests - the 8.3 km hike around Hellsee sounds tempting. Is it really worth it?

7 Places to See in the Allgäu That Will Enchant You At Any Season

Winter fairy tale Allgäu. Exploring romantic castles, rustic villages and fantastic nature by car is a must on your bucket list.

Valentine’s Day in Berlin - 10 Tips for Romance in the Capital City

A Berliner reveals which places and excursions are his insider tips for soulful moments in the capital city of Germany.

• Abenteuer Freundschaft
• PR & Advertisement
• Become Guest Author
• Legal Notice
• Privacy Policy

Ads Blocker Detected!!!

We have detected that you are using extensions to block ads. Please support us by disabling these ads blocker.

Top 10 reasons to visit Bavaria

Jan 8, 2016 • 5 min read

High-tech and traditional, conservative and innovative, quaint and quirky – there’s much more to the Free State (as Bavaria is known) than the stereotypical Lederhosen and felt hat image.

World-class museums, thigh-slapping beer halls, speedy cars, Alpine vistas, dreamy castles, belly-filling food, top-notch beer…there are hundreds of reasons to visit Germany’s southeast corner – here we list the ten most compelling.

1. The Alps

Geography may have handed Germany’s south a mere sliver of the Alps, but the region certainly makes the most of its peaks, many of which are but a short train ride from central Munich . The ski resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the place to head for the best fun in the snow, as it sits under Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze , the top of which can be reached by train.

Surrounded by Austria on three sides, the Berchtesgadener Land in Bavaria’s far southeast keeps all the region’s clichéd Alpine promises, providing dramatic mountain scenery, great hiking and Germany’s prettiest lake, the Königssee .

2. The beer

Munich has often been called 'the city of art and beer’, and when you are done with the art by day, the evenings belong to the 1L steins of frothy brews in typical beer halls such as the Hofbräuhaus , the Augustiner Bräustuben and the Weisses Brauhaus . Of course the best time for disciples of the hop to make a pilgrimage to the Bavarian capital is during Oktoberfest (annually late September to the first weekend in October), during which around six million litres of beer are slurped. Outside Munich the beer is just as good, better in fact, according to drinkers in  Franconia (Bavaria’s northern region), where countless village breweries pump out an astonishing variety of Landbier (small-scale regional beers) not available anywhere else.

3. The castles

Every Bavarian town and hilltop seems to host a medieval noble pile or two, but it’s to three 19th-century follies commissioned by Bavaria’s King Ludwig II that most outsiders flock. Rising out of Alpine forest near the town of Füssen , Schloss Neuschwanstein is Germany’s most popular tourist attraction, its dreamy turrets and dramatic location having inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. Ludwig’s other two sugary creations are the Herrenchiemsee , a Versailles-inspired palace on an island in the Chiemsee , Bavaria’s biggest lake, and compact Linderhof in a remote Alpine location near Oberammergau.

4. The cars

Bavaria is home to some of the highest-octane names of the motoring world – BMW in Munich and Audi in Ingolstadt. Munich’s space-age BMW Welt  (BMW World) is a petrolhead’s dream come true, a huge free exhibition of the company’s latest models which can be sat in, fiddled with and admired from the driver’s seat. Next door is the excellent BMW Museum , and intriguing tours of the nearby factory can be easily arranged.

5. The traditions

From the world-famous Oktoberfest and Christmas markets to Oberammergau’s once-a-decade Passion Play  and the glass-blowing traditions of the Bavarian Forest; from the beer-brewing monks of Andechs  and folk-costumed bashes in Alpine taverns to Bayreuth’s Wagner obsession – Bavaria is a place where culture and traditions form an easily accessible link with a colourful, folksy past.

6. The museums

You could devote many months to Bavaria’s exceptional museums, some of which rank as the best of their kind in Europe . It would be easy to while away a week ‘doing’ Munich’s art museums alone, including the world-class Pinakotheken ( Alte Pinakothek , Neue Pinakothek and Pinakothek der Moderne ). The  Deutsches Museum is a highly enjoyable repository of the technical past, while Nuremberg boasts the Deutsche Bahn Museum , Germany’s top railway museum, and the Nationalmuseum , the country’s most comprehensive exhibition of Germanic culture.  Of course, Bavaria witnessed one of the most sinister chapters in European history – the rise of the Nazis – and many places such as Berchtesgaden’s Dokumentation Obersalzberg and Nuremberg’s Reichsparteitagsgelände  – where the largest Nazi rallies were held in the 1930s – relate that dark story.

7. The shopping

Traditional Bavarian folk costume makes for a truly unique souvenir. Central Munich’s Loden-Frey sells the real deal, but those on a budget should head for Holareidulijö which sells second hand outfits. Nymphenburg porcelain is another popular take-home item, best sourced at the Porzellan Manufaktur Nymphenburg factory shops. Glassware from the Bavarian Forest area, Nuremberg gingerbread and new and antique beer steins are other mementoes to take home from a Bavaria trip. More unusual shopping experiences are provided by Käthe Wohlfahrt shops, where you can source your Christmas decorations all year round, a surreal experience in July when the mercury is pushing 30ºC.

8. The lakes

Between Munich and the Alps, many picturesque foothill lakes reflect quaint villages and onion-domed churches in their glassy waters. Easily accessible by S-Bahn from Munich, the Fünf-seen-land is an area of five lakes including the pretty Lake Starnberg, a popular, gentle retreat for stressed out city folk and the place King Ludwig II mysteriously drowned in 1886. Southeast of Munich, the Chiemsee is a great place to mess around in boats, but top marks among the region’s lakes must go to the Königssee , Germany’s most stunningly beautiful body of water, which is cupped by alpine slopes. Take an electric boat along its length.

9. The food

Bavarian cuisine may not enjoy worldwide renown, but the region’s meat-heavy menus are the perfect accompaniment to the unsurpassed beer. Eating out is not all about soaking up the beer, however. Munich has a thriving culinary scene, with vegetarian, vegan, Asian and Michelin-starred gourmet restaurants, and boasts more Italian eateries than most cities in Italy. Out in the sticks things are more traditional, though there’s still a lot of variety, especially where tourists congregate in numbers.

10. The romance

Running along the western edge of Bavaria, the Romantic Road is Germany’s most popular tourist route, extending for 350km from Würzburg in the north to Füssen in the south.

It’s a ribbon of quaintness punctuated by perfectly preserved walled towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber , Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen. The route is travelled by millions of visitors over the summer; go in winter when a blanket of snow adds some authentic romance to these special places.

Last updated in November 2017.

Explore related stories

Apr 30, 2024 • 8 min read

Get back to nature with these incredible treehouses in Europe, perfect for a family adventure in the woodland.

Apr 28, 2024 • 11 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 14, 2024 • 16 min read

Mar 13, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 13, 2024 • 6 min read

Mar 5, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 26, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 26, 2024 • 8 min read

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

16 Best Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

1 March 2024 · In: Bavaria , Germany , Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

16- Lake Constance

Overview: 16 must-visit bavaria places.

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

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

Scenic places in Bavaria – Map

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

16 best places to visit in Bavaria, Germany

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

1- Neuschwanstein Castle

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

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

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

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

UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES I RECOMMEND

2- munich .

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN MUNICH

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

3- Rothenburg ob der Tauber

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

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

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

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 . 

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN ROTHENBURG

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

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN BAMBERG

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

5- Regensburg

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN REGENSBURG

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

6- Berchtesgaden National Park

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN BERCHTESGADEN

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

7- Würzburg

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN WÜRZBURG

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

8- Nuremberg

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN NUREMBERG

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

9- Garmisch-Partenkirchen

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN

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

10- Passau 

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN PASSAU

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

11- Augsburg

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN AUGSBURG

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

12- Dinkelsbühl

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE IN DINKELSBÜHL

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

13- Linderhof Palace

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

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

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

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

14- Lake Chiemsee & Herrenchiemsee

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE AROUND LAKE CHIEMSEE

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

15- Kelheim & Weltenburg Abbey 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BEST THINGS TO DO & SEE AROUND LAKE CONSTANCE

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

Shop the printable road trip planner

Create your dream road trip in Bavaria 🇩🇪

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

• Share on Twitter Share on Twitter
• Share on Facebook Share on Facebook
• Share on Pinterest Share on Pinterest

You will also love

STAY INSPIRED

Join our community today to receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories that will inspire your next adventures, directly to your inbox. Can't wait to see you inside ♡

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Where To Stay in Venice: 7 Best Areas (& Hotels)

Follow the journey.

On the Blog

• Privacy Policy

Become an insider!

And receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories ♡

Copyright Lucie Charpentier © 2024 · Theme by 17th Avenue

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

Love it? Share it!

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

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

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

Ultimate 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: 10 days in Southern Germany

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

10-day Bavaria itinerary: at a glance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You can also book an airport transfer by bus here

Here is our hotel recommendation for 3 days in Munich, 

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

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

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

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

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

Walking tour around Old Town

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

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

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

Hang out at the Viktualienmarkt

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

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

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

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

Attend a concert at Munich Residenz

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visit Nymphenburg Palace

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

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

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

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

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

Admire art in the Kunstareal District

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

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

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

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

Explore Munich’s historical churches

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 of Bavaria Itinerary – Munich’s fun attractions

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

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

Laze around at the English Garden

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

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

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

Wander around Olympiapark

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

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

Catch a Bayern Munich game at Allianz Arena

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

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

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

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

Two days in the Bavarian Alps

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

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

Where to stay in the Bavarian Alps

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

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

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

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

Explore Neuschwanstein Castle

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

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

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

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

Stop by Hohenschwangau Castle

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

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

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

Visit Linderhof Palace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Berchtesgaden

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

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

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

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

Tour Eagle’s Nest (The Berghof)

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

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

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

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

Take a short day trip to Salzburg

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

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

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

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

Read: 10 days in Prague Vienna Salzburg Budapest itinerary

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

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

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Visit

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

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

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

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

Explore Dachau

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

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

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

Where to stay in Dachau

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

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

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

Walk around the Fuggerei

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

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

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

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

Marvel at the Augsburg Cathedral’s windows

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

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

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

Explore Augsburg

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

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

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

Where to stay in Augsburg

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Nuremberg

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

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

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

Take a Nuremberg Old Town walking tour

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

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

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

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

Visit the Nuremberg Castle complex

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

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

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

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

Stroll through Hauptmarkt

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

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

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

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

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

Brush up on some history at the Germanic National Museum

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

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

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

Marvel at St. Lawrence Church’s architecture

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

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

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

Tour the Romantic Road route

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

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

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

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

Snap some pics at Plönlein

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

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

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

Alternate Bavaria Itinerary: One Week Bavaria Road Trip

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

One Week Road Trip to Bavaria, Germany 

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

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

Book: A walking tour of Old Town and its attractions

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

Stay in Fussen overnight. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alternate Option : Garmisch Partenkirchen (town)

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

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

Travel Tips for Bavaria: Southern Germany Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

Where is Bavaria located?

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

Tourist Visas for Germany

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

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

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

Arriving in Bavaria Germany

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

This airport serves Munich as well as Upper Bavaria. 

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

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

Getting around Bavaria

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

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

Travel via rental car

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

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

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

Travel via public transportation

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

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

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

Travel via tours

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

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

When to Visit Bavaria 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Activities in Bavaria 

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

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

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

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

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

Packing for Your Trip 

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

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

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

Other items to add to your road trip:

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

Additional travel tips for your Bavaria 10 day itinerary

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

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

Is Bavaria worth visiting?

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

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

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

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

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

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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

The Fairytale Road

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

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

The King’s castles 

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

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

The Christmas markets 

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

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

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

Wrapping up an epic 10-day Bavaria itinerary

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

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

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

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

Similar Posts

Guide to Marienplatz Munich Old Town : Munich in a day

Munich is a German city located in the state of Bavaria. Marienplatz or Mary’s Square is a historic and popular tourist square, located in the heart of Munich in Germany. There are lots of historical monuments, events and traditions that are located in and around Marienplatz. This post will highlight cool things to do in…

The Perfect 4 Day Northern Iceland Itinerary

From the charming town of Akureyri to the mystical shores of Lake Mývatn, buckle up for the trip of a lifetime. This 4 day northern Iceland itinerary will provide you with a balance of breathtaking landmarks and unique experiences, ensuring each day in the land of fire and ice is unforgettable. 4 day Northern Iceland…

One Day in Montreal Itinerary – Visit Montreal in a day

Montreal is a stunning Canadian city, located in the French province of Quebec. The beauty of Montreal lies in its cobblestone streets, old port, and the beautiful French remnants. Old Montreal is the oldest part of the city. It has a historical square which is surrounded by the famous basilica, the old port and stunning…

One Day in Budapest Itinerary: See Budapest in a day

One of the stunning European cities, Budapest has been attracting travelers for decades. The capital city of Hungary is laced with tons of history, UNESCO heritage sites, and ruin bars; it is also gastronomic heaven! Here’s the perfect one day in Budapest itinerary and how to make the most of your time! One Day in…

Perfect One Day in Pisa Itinerary: Pisa in a day

It is always advisable to stay longer when visiting any new place – not only to see all the attractions but to experience the culture and traditions as well. However, since a day is all you can spare for Pisa, it is best to optimize your available time. Here is the perfect one day in…

3 Days in Porto Itinerary: From Port wine to epic views

If you’re looking for a beautiful European city to visit that isn’t overrun with tourists, Porto is the perfect place for you. This charming city in Portugal’s north has everything you could want on a trip, from stunning architecture to delicious food and wine. And best of all, this 3 days in Porto itinerary covers…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

17 Best Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 4, 2024

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

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

17. Franconian Lake District

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

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

16. Nuremberg

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

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

15. Landshut

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

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

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

14. Augsburg

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

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

13. Linderhof Palace

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

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

12. Wurzburg

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

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

11. Dinkelsbuhl

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

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

10. Regensburg

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

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

9. Lake Constance

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

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

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

8. Franconian Switzerland

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

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

7. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

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

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

6. Chiemsee

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

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

5. Berchtesgaden

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

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

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

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

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

See also: Where to Stay in Munich

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

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

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

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

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

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

Map of Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

Share this post:

8 Most Beautiful Castles Near Munich

10 Best Day Trips from Munich

A Picture Perfect Day Trip to Salzburg from Munich

Best Time to Visit Munich: Month-by-Month Guide

23 Best Things to do in Nuremberg, Germany

How to Travel from Munich to Vienna

20 Top Tourist Attractions in Munich

10 Top Destinations in Southern Germany

Where to stay in Munich: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

22 Top Tourist Attractions in Dresden, Germany

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• 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.

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our premium small-group tours to discover the world like never before.

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.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

See & Do

10 reasons why you should visit bavaria.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in garmisch for every traveller.

Craft and Culture in the Lesser-Known Gems of Eastern Germany

A Voyage Through Germany: the Lowdown on River Cruising

Stay Curious: Experience Germany From Your Living Room

Architecture

Breathtakingly beautiful buildings in germany.

Places in Germany for History Lovers

The Best Hotels in Germany for Every Traveller

Guides & Tips

The story behind germany's neuschwanstein castle.

The Best Hotels to Book in Thuringia, Germany

Top Tips for Travelling in Germany

The Best Spa Hotels in Baden-Baden

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 433321
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload