Bavaria
What you need to know before you go
Bavaria offers impressive scenery, from ancient castles and medieval towns to expansive lakes and snow-covered peaks. Germany’s largest state is steeped in history and culture. Many travellers embark on the Romantic Road scenic route, which starts from Würzburg and ends in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps, near Germany’s southern border. Along the way, you’ll pass a few pastoral villages and landmarks such as Neuschwanstein Castle, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Dinkelsbühl.
Munich is one of the busiest cities in Bavaria – its annual Oktoberfest beer festival draws thousands of beer lovers every year. Come during wintertime to experience Germany’s famous Christmas markets – expect loads of stalls selling beautiful ornaments, local fare like mulled wine and bratwurst, and an overall cheerful atmosphere.
Top destinations in Bavaria
Where will you go next?Nuremberg
From the 11th century to the beginnings of Nazi Germany, Nuremberg has a fascinating history, and much of it can be revisited in the city's many museums. Today, the northern Bavarian sprawl is best known for its spirited nightlife, hearty...Oberstdorf
Oberstdorf sits within the sunny Bavarian Alps beside the slopes of Nebelhorn, framed by snowy mountains, lush green valleys, and...Munich
Munich is perhaps best known today as the home of Oktoberfest, an epic folk festival that sees visitors from every...
What to see & do in Bavaria
Featured stories & fun stuff9 Best Things to Do in Nuremberg
Nuremberg is famous for its well-preserved historical landmarks, like the imperial castle and the walled Old Town. The location of the city made it an important commercial hub from the Middle Ages onwards, and this rich heritage can still...10 Must-Visit Small Towns in Bavaria
Small towns in Bavaria are absolutely worth visiting, especially if you want to experience alpine views, glittering lakes, and vibrant...10 Best Things to Do in Munich
The best things to do in Munich include exploring the city's many historical attractions – especially its long history of brewing...11 Best Family Things to Do in Munich
Our list of the best family things to do in Munich shows that there is more to the city than...10 Best Natural Sights around Bavaria
Most of the natural sights around Bavaria revolve around its most prominent natural feature: the Alps. Here, visitors can find...10 Best Things to Do in Bavaria
The best things to do in Bavaria include taking in its mix of impressive scenery, popular festivals, and distinctive local...10 Most Popular Streets in Munich
The most popular streets in Munich are overflowing with exceptional shopping, dining, and cultural landmarks. Many of these thoroughfares are...10 Best Outdoor Activities in Munich
Outdoor activities in Munich can be as active or relaxed as you choose – from lazy days in beer gardens to...10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Munich
These best things to do for couples in Munich let lovebirds enjoy a romantic getaway in the city. Munich’s lush...
Where & what to eat in Bavaria
10 Best Local Dishes from Bavaria
Many of the best local dishes from Bavaria are hearty, home-style meals made with plenty of meat (and not too many vegetables). As such, many Bavarian specialities are beer garden and Oktoberfest staples, going hand-in-hand with pints...10 Great Restaurants in Nuremberg
Great restaurants in Nuremberg range from fine-dining establishments with inventive takes on gourmet food to classic Bavarian restaurants featuring...10 Best Local Restaurants in Munich
The best local restaurants in Munich specialise in dishes inspired by the city’s vibrant culture and rich history. Munich is...
Where to shop & what to buy in Bavaria
10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Munich
The best places to go shopping in Munich include the city’s elegant shopping malls, pedestrianised boulevards, and flea markets on the outskirts of town. Many of the retail hot spots in this list can be found in the city centre...10 Best Markets in Munich
Munich markets offer a cultural scene that will quell your shopping bug and let you experience all the local colour...10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Nuremberg
The best places to go shopping in Nuremberg range from atmospheric Easter markets to one of the largest flea markets...
Where to go & what to do at night in Bavaria
10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Munich
This guide to things to do after dinner in Munich highlights the city’s vibrant nightlife scene. The capital of Bavaria offers a unique atmosphere that’s unlike the northern metropolises of Berlin and Hamburg. Renowned for its beer-drinking culture and...10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Nuremberg
There are plenty of cool things to do after dinner in Nuremberg, the second-largest town in Bavaria. Sitting on...10 Best Theatres in Munich
Theatres in Munich allow you to get dressed to the nines, enjoy a classical night out with your family or...
Useful information
Munich Travel Essentials
Our Munich Travel Essentials lays out the essential information you need to help planning your trip to one of the most popular destinations in Germany. No matter how frequently you travel, some questions will always need answers: What’s the weather like? How can I get from the airport to my hotel? What currency and type of plug do I need...