Planning a trip to Bavaria and wondering what the best places to visit are? Bavaria, a state in Southern Germany, is famous for its stunning landscapes, fresh mountain air, magnificent medieval castles and towns, and rich cultural heritage. And let’s not forget the celebrated Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival!
So, what should you do in Bavaria? To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of must-see spots in this beautiful region.
First on the list is Neuschwanstein Castle, a historic palace built in 1869. Perched on a hill overlooking the village of Hohenschwangau in southwest Bavaria, the castle was King Ludwig II of Bavaria’s private residence until his death in 1886. Today, it’s open to the public and is well-known for its fairytale-like appearance. Around a million people visit Neuschwanstein each year, making it one of Germany’s most famous and popular castles. For an enriching experience, join a guided tour from Munich. The castle’s history and beauty make it a fantastic day trip.
Next, don’t miss Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak at 2,962 meters above sea level. It’s a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. While reaching the summit does require climbing gear, there are less challenging routes like the two-day Reintal Valley Route that don’t need special equipment. Alternatively, if hiking isn’t your thing, take a cable car to the top. You can also combine both by hiking up and taking the cable car down. Late summer and early September are the best times for this adventure. Be sure to visit Eibsee, a scenic lake at the base of Zugspitze, which is accessible via the cable car.
Königssee is another gem, one of Germany’s deepest lakes. Formed by glaciers, this 8 km long lake resembles a fjord and is surrounded by dramatic mountains, with the tallest reaching around 2,700 meters. It’s one of Bavaria’s most picturesque spots. Nearby Berchtesgaden is a popular resort town nestled in the Bavarian Alps, perfect for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts, offering skiing and other recreational activities.
Munich, Bavaria’s capital and most populous city, is an essential stop. As Germany’s third-largest city, Munich is steeped in history and culture, dating back to the 12th century. It is most renowned for Oktoberfest, a massive beer festival held annually from mid-September to early October, attracting around six million visitors each year who come to enjoy the beer, food, and festivities.
Dachau holds significant historical importance as the first Nazi concentration camp, opened in 1933. Now a memorial, Dachau offers a poignant reminder of the Holocaust with numerous religious memorials, reconstructed cells and barracks, and a museum displaying photographs and documents about the camp’s history. Located just 22 km from Munich, it’s easily accessible and offers guided tours.
Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city, features the beautifully restored Old Town (Altstadt), which was heavily bombed during WWII. The city’s highlight is the impressive Nuremberg Castle, one of Europe’s most formidable medieval fortifications. Other notable sites include the Church of Our Lady, St. Lawrence’s Church, St. Sebaldus Church, Albrecht Dürer’s House, and the iconic city walls, making Nuremberg a must-visit.
The Romantic Road is a scenic driving route through Bavaria’s idyllic countryside, highlighting three medieval towns: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, and Nördlingen. These towns are renowned for their well-preserved city walls. Rothenburg ob der Tauber stands out with its beautiful half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. Dinkelsbühl highlights German town life from the 15th to 17th centuries with its surrounding medieval walls and towers. Nördlingen, first mentioned in 898, features a striking 15th-century church and a historic town hall.
Neuschwanstein Castle, mentioned earlier, along with Hohenschwangau Castle, are also significant highlights along the Romantic Road and are must-sees in Bavaria.
This comprehensive guide should provide you with all the inspiration you need for an incredible trip to Bavaria!