8 best places to visit in Bavaria – highlights you need to see
Bavaria, Germany. Some might think of the alps, the cows and the wide landscapes. Others have an immediate picture of football and Munich in their head. Bavaria has multiple faces but one thing is for sure: it is an absolute dream destination for every traveller in Europe or Germany. It is one of the 16 states in Germany and marks the boarder to Austria in the south of the country. The area of Bavaria is known for the alps, the beautiful traditions and the delicious food. If you are looking for the best example of the picturesque German countryside, a trip to Bavaria is the best choice. When you are in Germany or visiting Austria, a trip to Bavaria is an absolute Must-Do. In this guide you will not only find countless reasons to visit Bavaria, but as well you´ll get to know the most beautiful places you need to see and the best things to do in the south.
Munich – the capital
Your journey through Bavaria will most likely start in Munich, the capital of Bavaria. While the city is not the most beautiful stop on your route, it still should not be missed. Many international travellers see Munich as the city of football, beer and the Oktoberfest. Surely, these are all important attributes of the city. And yet it is so much more of things to do.
When in Munich, make sure to visit the beautiful Olympia Park and enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the city. Stroll through the city center and over the Marienplatz. Take a walk along the Isar and watch the locals surf on the river. And of course, do not forget to have a beer in a local pub and try on some of the traditional clothing. You might as well discover, that in Munich not everybody walks around in the Dirndl and Lederhosen but still, it is a unique experience that you should put on your list. For the sport fans, a tour through the Allianz Arena is also a Must-Do.
Enjoy the life of the city, before you will dive deeper into the Bavarian nature and explore the German countryside.
The Lake Eibsee
After Munich, it is time to explore the very South of Bavaria. The region is known for the beautiful landscape and is therefore ideal for travelling. An absolute highlight is the Lake Eibsee – one of the most beautiful alpine lakes of Germany or even Europe. The Lake Eibsee is definitely one of the best places to visit in Bavaria.
The lake is located right at the bottom of Germany´s highest peak – the Zugspitze. But what makes the lake so special? The Lake Eibsee is a mirror of mother nature.
If you are lucky, you will see a beautiful reflection of the mountain in the water while you take a walk around the shore. A trip to Lake Eibsee is the ideal chance to explore one of Germany´s absolute treasures and the unique countryside. The lake is well known among photographers and offers some beautiful shots!
For the ultimate experience, you can rent a boat or take the SUP over the lake. Who wouldn´t love to paddle below Germany´s highest mountains? An absolute bucketlist experience!
The Lake Eibsee is located near the city of Garmisch Patenkirchen, directly at the boarder to Austria. The best time to visit the lake is directly in the morning. You can take beautiful pictures without crowds of tourists and you witness the morning light over the country´s highest peak. For many travellers, this is the number one place in Germany and a memory that will stay forever. Even the locals are surprised to see how beautiful their country actually is and how much it has to offer.
For more information on Lake Eibsee, check out 5 Tips to explore the famous Lake Eibsee.
Visit the Neuschwanstein Castle
Welcome to a fairy tale. One of the common images that represents Bavaria and the South of Germany is the Neuschwanstein Castle. Of course, the castle cannot be missing on the list of best places to visit in Bavaria.
The majestic building directly in the mountains was built by the last Bavarian King and is the main tourist attraction ever since. The castle is located in Füssen, a small city with the most beautiful scenery. It is both an incredible view to watch the castle from below and to hike up the hill to enjoy the view from above. If you are interested in the interior of the castle, there are different tours available each day.
One thing is for sure: the area will make you feel like you´re walking through a wonderland. During every season, the Neuschwanstein Castle offers one of a kind view and amazes millions of visitors each year.
Walk around the Hopfensee
After visiting the Neuschwanstein Castle, you can take some time to explore the surrounding area. You will find multiple picturesque lakes, one of them named the Hopfensee.
Drive to the small village of Hopfen by the lake and take a walk around. You will not only get to see an amazing view of the mountains but as well experience the laid-back lifestyle of Bavaria. The Hopfensee is a popular place for tourists to relax and enjoy nature. You can even rent a boat in summer and get an ultimate experience. Seeing the mountains in the background, the reflection in the water and the peace around you is one of the reasons, why many travellers love Bavaria and decide to stay longer as planned.
Visit the Lindau at the Lake Constance
Another highlight of the best places to visit in Bavaria is the Lake Constance. The Lake Constance is one of the biggest lakes in Europe and has its boarders in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Even Bavaria has its part around the shore and the city of Lindau is the ideal chance for you to explore the beautiful place.
The city of Lindau is the ideal mixture of culture and relaxation by the lake. Make sure to spend your days on the Lindau Island. There are different beaches and accesses to the water. During summer, a swim in the lake or a boat ride is an absolute Must-Do in Bavaria. You can enjoy a coffee in the harbor and feel the sun on your skin. During winter, Lindau has as well a beautiful Christmas Market directly by the water. Even the locals love to take some time out and enjoy the Mediterranean flair that Lindau has to offer. From Lindau, you can as well take the ferry across the lake and explore more areas of the Lake Constance.
Join a traditional celebration
If you have the chance while visiting Bavaria, make sure to experience a traditional celebration, also known as a Volksfest. Most travellers think directly of the Oktoberfest, but there are countless other events which are worth the visit.
The easiest way to find out, is to ask the locals. Especially, if you are staying in a small village, there will be a good chance for you to put on your Dirndl and join the crowd. Ask in your hotel or hostel for information and if you are lucky, you will get to experience a typical Bavarian evening. During summer, there is something going on almost every weekend. Be prepared for a lot of beer and good food. It will be worth it and you will see what Germany is really about!
Go on a hike in the alps
It would not be a trip to Bavaria, if you didn´t go for a hike. The best place to do so is the Allgäu. You will find a great variety of different tracks. From medium hikes to about 5-hour routes. If you are lazy, you can also take a gondola and enjoy the view from the top.
Hiking, for many Bavarians, is the best thing to experience the landscape and get some contrast from work and their daily life. especially down in the south, you will experience a true hiking culture and most visitors are eager to join. Don´t worry, there is a hike for everybody and Bavaria will not lose a chance to convince you enjoying the views from the summit! So, make sure to take some hiking boots when visiting Bavaria. This is also a great chance to do some photography and capture the countryside!
One of the best places to visit in Bavaria to go hiking is the Allgäu. To get to know the Allgäu better, check out The Top 5 things to do in the Allgäu.
Explore more Bavarian cities
Apart from the incredible natures and the capital Munich, Bavaria also has to offer a great choice of beautiful cities. While there is not the Number one city you should see, you can choose yourself and see which stops fit best in your route through Bavaria or Germany.
A good choice is Passau, located directly by the Donau. In Bayreuth you can dive into the history of classic music and get lost in historic buildings. In Würzburg you can enjoy a delicious wine tasting and in Regensburg you visit some historic monuments. The cities in Bavaria are both unique and classic and offer different attractions for any kind of tourist.
Bavaria is waiting for you
The Free State of Bavaria welcomes countless tourists each year. More and more travellers are attracted by the amazing landscape and the variety of activities. Bavaria is a unique place and one of the best reasons to give Germany a chance and explore the south.
