The 8 Best Places to Visit in Bavaria: Your German Travel Guide! 🇩🇪
Got that itch for a trip where ancient castles practically scrape the sky, beer flows like the happiest river you’ve ever seen, and your phone’s photo gallery will be begging for mercy? Well, dust off your comfiest walking shoes (and maybe those lederhosen you bought on a whim, no judgement here, rock ’em if you got ’em!) because Bavaria is shouting your name. It’s this incredible chunk of Germany that’s got everything from big city buzz to “am I dreaming?” Alpine views. We here at The Travel Tinker have been there, done that, and got the commemorative stein, so we’ve whipped up a guide to the absolute Best Places to Visit in Bavaria. Let’s make sure your trip is less “uh oh, wrong turn” and more “this is the life!”. 🇩🇪
Munich (München): The Bavarian Capital That’s All Heart (and Hops!) 🍺
Munich, or München to its friends, is so much more than just the legendary Oktoberfest though, let’s be real, that’s a pretty epic reason to pop over. It’s a city where that famous German Gemütlichkeit (think ultimate cosiness and good vibes) does a happy dance with a slick, cosmopolitan energy. You can almost hear the oompah bands just thinking about it. Munich is so good, I’ve been twice!
📍 So, what’s the Munich magic all about?
Marienplatz: This is the city’s beating heart, a massive square where you’ll find the jaw-dropping New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus). Make sure you catch the Glockenspiel show, it’s a quirky mechanical marvel that tells old stories, and it’s just brilliant.
English Garden (Englischer Garten): Picture this: a park so big it makes Central Park look, well, less big. It’s perfect for a lazy wander, a picnic, or, get this, watching actual surfers tackle a permanent river wave (the Eisbachwelle)! Mad, but true.
Hofbräuhaus: Yeah, okay, it’s probably the most famous beer hall on the planet and swarming with tourists, but come on! You’ve gotta do it once. Grab a massive stein, link arms with strangers, and just soak it in. Prost!
Museum Quarter (Kunstareal): If art’s your jam, you’ll be in heaven. The Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek, Pinakothek der Moderne… it’s an art crawl waiting to happen.
🔥 Recommended Tour: From Munich: Dachau Memorial Site Half-Day Trip
🔹 A Little Tip from The Tinker: Want a cracking view of Munich without queuing for ages? Scramble up the tower of St. Peter’s Church (folks call it Alter Peter) near Marienplatz. Your legs might complain, but your eyes will thank you.
💡 Did You Know?: The English Garden sounds very, well, English, but it was actually dreamt up by an American, Benjamin Thompson (who became Count Rumford), way back in the 18th century! Plot twist!
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Neuschwanstein Castle: Straight Out of a Fairytale (No, Really!) 🏰
Ah, Neuschwanstein. Say it with me: Noy-shvahn-shtine. Even if you butcher the pronunciation (we’ve all been there), you’ll know this castle. It’s the fairytale castle, dramatically plonked on a hill, looking like it waltzed right out of a Disney movie. And it kind of did, it was the muse for Sleeping Beauty’s castle. King Ludwig II, Bavaria’s wonderfully eccentric “Mad King,” clearly wasn’t a fan of subtle.
📍 What makes Neuschwanstein so utterly spellbinding?
The Castle Itself: It’s a 19th-century Romanesque Revival fantasy, all turrets and towers. Inside, it’s pure opera, Wagner-inspired murals and rooms so over-the-top, they’re magnificent.
Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge): This is the spot for that iconic photo of Neuschwanstein (pictured above). Brace yourself for crowds, but it’s worth the jostle.
Hohenschwangau Castle: Just down the hill is Ludwig’s childhood home, Hohenschwangau. It’s lovely too, and gives you a bit more context to the whole fairytale.
🔹 Tinker’s Two Cents: Book your tickets online. Seriously. Months in advance if you can, especially for summer. I can’t say this enough. And wear your comfiest shoes, there’s a bit of a hike involved (though you can cheat with a shuttle bus for part of it).
💡 Bet You Didn’t Know: Neuschwanstein looks ancient, but it was built in the late 1800s and even had fancy new-fangled things like flushing toilets and a sort of central heating! Ludwig liked his creature comforts.
🗺️ Check out our full guide here: Visit Neuschwanstein Castle: An In-Depth Guide for First-Time Visitors
Nuremberg (Nürnberg): Where History Whispers from Every Cobblestone 📜
Nuremberg is a city that wears its history on its sleeve, both the grand and the grim. It was a big deal in the Holy Roman Empire, and then, much later, became notorious during the Nazi regime and for the Nuremberg Trials. Today, it’s a lively place that doesn’t shy away from its past, all while showing off its stunning medieval core. Probably one of my favourite places in Germany /Bavaria!
📍 What should you absolutely not miss in Nuremberg?
Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg): This castle looms over the Old Town and gives you amazing views. It’s like stepping back into a knight’s tale.
Old Town (Altstadt): Lovingly rebuilt after WWII, it’s a maze of timber-framed houses, winding cobbled streets, and the bustling Hauptmarkt (main market square).
Documentation Centre Nazi Party Rally Grounds: This isn’t a light-hearted visit, but it’s incredibly important. It’s a museum that gives real context to a very dark period of German history.
Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt): If you’re in Bavaria around Christmas, this market is legendary. It’s pure, unadulterated festive cheer.
🔹 Insider Info: You absolutely must try the local grub: Nürnberger Rostbratwürstchen. They’re these tiny, finger-sized grilled sausages, usually served up with sauerkraut or a good dollop of potato salad. Delicious!
🔥 Must-do Tour: Nuremberg: Tunnels and Secret Passages in the City Wall Tour
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Like Walking into a Storybook (Seriously, It’s That Pretty) 🏘️
Ever wished you could just step into one of those beautifully illustrated Grimm’s fairytale books? Well, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is basically that wish granted and is my favourite place out of the 8! It’s a highlight of Germany’s Romantic Road, a walled medieval town that’s so perfectly preserved, you half expect to see Hansel and Gretel skipping down the street. It’s a time warp, in the best possible way.
📍 Why will Rothenburg steal your heart?
The Town Walls: You can walk almost the whole way around the old town on top of the medieval walls. The views over the terracotta rooftops and the countryside beyond? Chef’s kiss!
Plönlein (Little Square): This is probably Germany’s most Instagrammed spot. You’ll know it when you see it – the cute yellow house, the tower, the fountain. It’s ridiculously charming.
Night Watchman Tour: This is a must-do! Join the Night Watchman (he’s quite the character) for an evening stroll through the lamplit streets. He’s full of stories and a good few laughs.
Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Village: It’s Christmas all year round in this massive, magical shop. Even if you’re a Grinch, you’ll probably crack a smile in here.
🔥 My Recommended Tour: From Munich: Rothenburg and Nördlinger Ries Day Trip by Bus
🔹 Listen Up!: If you can, stay overnight. Rothenburg is super popular for day trips, and it gets rammed. But in the early morning or late evening, when the crowds have gone? It’s pure magic. Quiet, atmospheric, and utterly enchanting.
🗺️ More Guides to Germany, sure!
Recommended Tours in Bavaria
Berchtesgaden National Park & Königssee: Alpine Drama at its Finest 🏔️🛶
If your soul is craving some serious, jaw-on-the-floor natural beauty, then point your compass towards Berchtesgaden National Park, nestled in the Bavarian Alps. This place is just showing off, frankly. Think dramatic, snow-dusted peaks, forests so green they almost glow, and the star of the show: the emerald-green Königssee lake.
📍 What are the absolute knockouts in Berchtesgaden?
Königssee Lake: Hop on an electric boat (they’re super quiet to protect the peace) and glide across this stunning fjord-like lake. Your destination? The iconic St. Bartholomä Church.
St. Bartholomä Church: With its distinctive red onion domes, this little pilgrimage church sits on a peninsula and looks like it was painted into the landscape. Try the fresh smoked fish from the lake here – delish!
Jennerbahn Cable Car: Want epic views without the epic hike? The Jennerbahn will whisk you up Mount Jenner for a panorama of Königssee and the surrounding Alps that’ll have you lost for words.
Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus): This place has a complicated history (it was a Nazi-era mountain retreat), but the views from up there (on a clear day) are undeniably incredible. You get there by special buses from Obersalzberg.
🔹 A Cool Moment: When you’re on the Königssee boat, the boatman will stop and play a trumpet. Listen for the echo bouncing off the mountains – it’s genuinely spine-tingling.
🔥 Top-Rated Tour: From Munich: Guided Group Tour to Eagle’s Nest
Need accommodation!?! We all love Booking.com, right?
Garmisch-Partenkirchen & Zugspitze: Reaching for the German Sky 🚠❄️
Tucked away at the foot of Germany’s tallest mountain, the Zugspitze, you’ll find Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It’s a paradise for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you fancy hiking, skiing, or just gawping at mind-blowing mountain scenery with a hot chocolate in hand, this twin town is where it’s at.
📍 Why should Garmisch be on your list?
Zugspitze: You can’t go to Garmisch and not go up the “Top of Germany” (it’s 2,962m / 9,718 ft high!). Take the cogwheel train and then a cable car. On a clear day, you can see across four different countries. It’s pretty special.
Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm): This is nature showing off its power. The Partnach river has carved this insanely deep gorge through solid rock. You walk along paths cut into the cliffs – it’s thrilling and a bit damp!
The Towns Themselves: Both Garmisch and Partenkirchen have really pretty pedestrian areas. Look out for the traditional Bavarian houses covered in Lüftlmalerei – these beautiful frescoes that tell stories.
🔥 Want to find all the best places to eat, shop, and explore? Use our Google Maps Legend! Everything you need all on the google maps app!
Bamberg: Beer, Baroque, and Beautiful Bridges 🍻🏛️
Bamberg is one of those places that flies a bit under the radar, but trust me, it’s a total gem. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage city that somehow dodged the bombs in WWII. It’s built on seven hills, a bit like Rome, and it’s this gorgeous mix of medieval and baroque buildings, with the Regnitz River running right through it. And the beer… oh, the beer!
📍 What’s the buzz in Bamberg?
Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus): This has to be one of the coolest town halls ever. It’s built smack-bang in the middle of the Regnitz River, on its own little island, with bridges connecting it. So picturesque it hurts.
Bamberg Cathedral (Bamberger Dom): A seriously impressive imperial cathedral with four grand towers. Keep an eye out for the famous Bamberg Horseman statue inside – no one’s quite sure who he is, which just adds to the mystery.
“Little Venice” (Klein Venedig): A super cute row of old fishermen’s houses along the riverbank. You can see why they call it Little Venice.
Rauchbier (Smoked Beer): Bamberg is famous for this unique brew. It tastes… well, smoky, like bacon in a glass (in a good way, mostly!). It’s definitely an experience, and a must-try for any beer adventurer.
🔹 My Recommendation: Go on a brewery crawl! Bamberg has loads of historic breweries. Trying Rauchbier at legendary spots like Schlenkerla or Spezial is basically a Bamberg rite of passage.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Regensburg: A Medieval Masterpiece on the Danube 🌉
Another Bavarian beauty with a UNESCO stamp of approval, Regensburg has been around for over 2,000 years! Its medieval city centre is astonishingly well-preserved and is one of the biggest north of the Alps. It’s perfect for just getting lost in. Plus, the mighty Danube River flows right through, adding to its charm.
📍 What makes Regensburg so special?
Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke): This bridge is a medieval marvel. Walking across it gives you fantastic views of the city and the river. For ages, it was the only proper bridge across the Danube for miles around.
St. Peter’s Cathedral (Dom St. Peter): A stunning Gothic cathedral. The stained glass windows will take your breath away.
Old Town: Just wander. Seriously. Get lost in the narrow alleyways, stumble upon hidden courtyards, and admire the old merchant houses and towers.
Historic Sausage Kitchen (Historische Wurstkuchl): Tucked away near the Stone Bridge, this tiny little place has apparently been grilling up delicious sausages for nearly 900 years! How amazing is that?
🔥 Foodie Alert: You have to get sausages from the Wurstkuchl. Ask for “Drei im Weggla” (three in a bun) and eat them sitting by the Danube. It’s pure Regensburg.
Bonus Stop! Passau: The Dazzling "City of Three Rivers" 💧⛪
Alright, because we’re feeling generous and Bavaria just keeps on giving, here’s one more for the road! If you fancy a city that’s a bit different but utterly captivating, make a beeline for Passau. This beauty sits right where three rivers, the mighty Danube, the green Inn, and the dark Ilz, all spectacularly crash the party together. The coolest bit? Each river has a different colour, so where they meet is like Mother Nature’s own watercolour masterpiece. It’s genuinely unique!
📍 What makes Passau a delightful detour?
Veste Oberhaus: This is a whacking great fortress that glowers down over the city. The views from up here, especially of that three-river confluence, are absolute knockouts. Seriously, Instagram will thank you.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Dom St. Stephan): Pop your head in here because it’s home to the largest cathedral organ in the world. If you time it right and catch an organ concert, the sound is just immense – it’ll rattle your fillings in the best way.
Charming Old Town (Altstadt): Get lost in the narrow, winding streets, admire the colourful baroque buildings, and soak up the lovely Italianate vibe. It’s perfect for just pootling around and discovering hidden corners.
🔹 Pro Tip: Jump on a “Three Rivers Cruise.” It gives you a fantastic view of the city from the water and you really get to see that amazing mix of river colours up close. It’s a super relaxing way to take it all in.
That’s it, our insider scoop on the Best Places to Visit in Bavaria! It’s a land that honestly has a bit of everything. From those sky-high Alpine peaks that make you feel tiny, to the ancient streets of its utterly charming towns, and the brilliant buzz of Munich, Bavaria just has this way of grabbing your heart and making you want to stay forever.
Whether you’re dreaming of an epic drive along the Romantic Road, a city break packed with culture and more German beer gardens than you can shake a stein at, or just losing yourself in the stunning scenery of the Bavarian Alps, this slice of Germany is ready to roll out the welcome mat (and probably offer you a beer). So, what are you waiting for? Get those travel plans off the back burner, your amazing Bavarian adventure is closer than you think! 🌍 ✨
Your turn, travellers…
Have you been to any of these Bavarian beauties? Or maybe you’ve found a secret spot that we absolutely need to know about? Drop your stories, tips, or random Bavarian thoughts in the comments below.👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
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FAQs: Your Bavarian Brain-Ticklers, Answered!
Okay, when’s the actual best time to visit Bavaria?
Honestly, Bavaria’s got charm all year round, like that friend who looks good in any outfit. Spring (April-May) is lovely with everything blooming and decent temps. Summer (June-August) is prime time for hiking and sprawling in beer gardens, but yeah, it gets busy. Autumn (September-October) means Oktoberfest madness (if that’s your thing) and gorgeous golden leaves. Winter (November-March)? Think fairytale Christmas markets and hitting the slopes in the Alps. It really just depends on what kind of adventure you’re after! 😉
How long should I plan for a Bavarian escapade?
To really get a feel for it, I’d say give yourself at least 7 to 10 days. That’s enough to do Munich, see a castle or two, and maybe dip into a smaller town or the Alps. If you want to explore more of these Best Places to Visit in Bavaria without rushing like a mad thing, then two weeks would be dreamy. It’s all about your travel style, really!
Is Bavaria going to break the bank?
It can be a bit pricey, especially in the big tourist magnets like Munich and around Neuschwanstein, or if you hit Oktoberfest. But you can definitely do Bavaria on a budget. Look for Gasthäuser (guesthouses) or hostels, grab lunch from bakeries or Imbiss (snack) stands – their sausage game is strong – and check out regional train deals like the Bayern-Ticket. It’s doable!
My German is, err, non-existent. Am I doomed?
Not at all! While chucking in a Hallo, Danke, or Bitte will always get you a smile, you’ll find that loads of people speak English in the touristy bits, hotels, and restaurants. Bavarians are generally super friendly and helpful. So, no need to panic-learn the dictionary!
What Bavarian food absolutely has to pass my lips?
Oh, get ready to loosen your belt! Beyond the famous pretzels and every kind of sausage imaginable (try Weisswurst or the little Nürnberger ones), you’ve got to sample Schweinshaxe (that’s a massive roasted pork knuckle – epic!), Käsespätzle (think German mac ‘n’ cheese, but way better), Apfelstrudel (apple strudel, obviously), and, naturally, the incredible range of Bavarian beers and cakes. My advice? Arrive hungry!
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
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Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! I created The Travel Tinker as a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel, allowing you to tinker your own travels! Let's explore!
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