Things to Do in Bavaria: The 22 Most Beautiful Places

Map of Our Top Bavaria Attractions

Before we walk you through our 22 most beautiful places in Bavaria, here’s a map to help you get your bearings — so you can plan your route before you even pack your bags.

Upper Bavaria

Munich

Munich is the state capital of Bavaria. And contrary to what you might expect, it’s so much more than a glitzy city and Oktoberfest — even though both are, of course, very real.

Culture lovers will adore the many museums in Munich, like the Pinakothek der Moderne. We personally fell in love with the beautiful historic buildings in the city center. The standout highlights in Munich are the town hall with the Glockenspiel at Marienplatz, the Residenz, the Frauenkirche, and Nymphenburg Palace.

If you want to see the real Munich off the tourist trail, head to the Olympiapark or the English Garden. The English Garden is home to the world-famous Eisbach wave, where a handful of surfers throw themselves into the water even in the bitterest cold of winter.

And of course, having a beer at a genuine Munich brewery is absolutely non-negotiable.

Our Hotel Pick: 25hours Munich – Stylish boutique hotel in the city center

Zugspitze

The Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain, and we probably don’t need to tell you that the view from 9,718 feet is absolutely breathtaking. From up here you can see four countries: Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria.

Don’t worry — you don’t have to hike to the top to enjoy it. There’s also a cable car that takes you up in comfort.

If you’re visiting Bavaria in winter, bring your ski gear. The area around the Zugspitze has a great ski resort with a wide range of runs.

Our Hotel Pick: Gästehaus Haag – Modern country hotel in the mountains

From Munich: Day trip to the Zugspitze

Eibsee

Just below the Zugspitze near Garmisch-Partenkirchen lies the Eibsee — and we have never seen such an emerald-green lake. The surrounding mountain peaks reflected in the glassy water make the view even more stunning. The lake gets its unique color because the water flows in underground.

In summer you can swim here, and in winter you can take romantic walks through the snow-covered forest — or rent a rowboat and explore the little islands.

We really recommend the Eibsee if you’re after peace and quiet. It’s no longer a secret, but there tend to be far fewer visitors here than at the Chiemsee and similar spots.

Our Hotel Pick: Eibsee Hotel – The only hotel right on the lake

Berchtesgadener Land

The Berchtesgadener Land is the only national park in the Alps and a genuine nature paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. What’s waiting for you? Stunning lakes, green mountain landscapes, alpine meadows, and delicious traditional Bavarian food.

The undisputed star is the mirror-smooth Königssee — more on that in a moment. Beyond that, there are countless beautiful spots in Berchtesgaden for hiking, cycling, or simply unwinding.

In winter the landscape transforms into a snowy winter wonderland. Pack your skis and snowboard — with Rossfeld, Jenner, and Götschen there are several great ski resorts to choose from.

For rainy days, we recommend a wellness day at the Watzmann Therme or a trip to the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine.

Our Hotel Pick: Hotel Seeblick – Family-friendly country hotel in the spa town of Bad Reichenhall

Königssee

The Königssee in Berchtesgaden National Park has a reputation that stretches far beyond Bavaria — and when you stand before the mirror-smooth lake surrounded by the towering slopes of the Watzmann, you’ll immediately understand why.

The best way to explore it is to start in Schönau, where a boat departs and travels the full length of the lake. Your first stop is the St. Bartholomä Church on the western shore. The captain also pauses at the narrowest point of the lake, where the famous echo is demonstrated — in true Bavarian fashion, with a trumpet.

Eventually you reach the far end of the lake. If you have time, we strongly recommend walking around the Obersee just beyond. Most tourists skip this, so it’s far less crowded than the Königssee itself.

Our Hotel Pick: Almhotel Grünsteinblick – Rustic hotel with a pool near the lake

From Munich: Full-day trip to the Königssee

Röthbachfall

While you’re at the Königssee, don’t skip the Röthbachfall. At 1,542 feet in height, it is the tallest waterfall in Germany — and seriously impressive.

You reach it by crossing the Königssee by boat, getting off at the southern stop, and taking a short hike of about two miles around and beyond the Obersee.

You may never have heard of this waterfall, and honestly, that’s a good sign — there is thankfully still no tourist infrastructure here. Given how close it is to the Königssee, we recommend combining both on one trip and spending the night nearby.

Kehlsteinhaus

High above the Berchtesgadener Land, perched at an elevation of 6,017 feet, stands the Kehlsteinhaus — a massive structure with walls several feet thick.

As stunning as the view is from up here, the history of the Kehlsteinhaus is equally dark. It was built under Hitler to receive important guests. After the war it was left standing and can be visited today — the site tells the full story, and there’s a pleasant restaurant with a view.

Even the journey up is an adventure. A bus takes you to the parking area, since private vehicles aren’t permitted on the road. From there you pass through a tunnel and step into a sleek elevator that whisks you up 407 feet to the Kehlsteinhaus in just seconds.

You can easily combine this with a stay at the Königssee and do it as a day trip from there.

From Munich: Tour to the Kehlsteinhaus

Chiemsee

The Chiemsee is also known as the Bavarian Sea — and given its size, we totally get why. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Upper Bavaria, and it’s reachable from Munich in under an hour by car.

Out on the lake you’ll find Herreninsel with the beautiful Herrenchiemsee Palace and the picturesque Fraueninsel. We really encourage you to take a boat trip and stroll around both islands — it’s worth every minute.

Beyond that, you can sail on the lake, go stand-up paddleboarding, or bike all the way around it. There are plenty of charming towns nearby with some genuinely lovely places to stay, for example in Prien or Chieming.

Our Hotel Pick: Hotel Garni Möwe am See – Modern country hotel right on the lake

From Munich: Day trip to the Chiemsee

Tegernsee

The Tegernsee is one of the most popular day-trip destinations for Munich locals, just an hour from the city.

There’s plenty to keep you busy around the lake: stroll along the lakeside promenade near Gmund, ride the Wallbergbahn cable car up to around 5,577 feet, or — for the more ambitious — hike all the way up to the Tegernseer Hütte mountain hut.

On a rainy day, the Monte Mare Seesauna is seriously worth a visit. Top-notch wellness facilities, plus direct access to the lake.

The must-dos also include a boat cruise on the lake and, of course, a glass of local Tegernseer beer at the Tegernsee Bräustüberl next to Tegernsee Palace. Don’t skip that one.

Our Hotel Pick: Hotel Garni Reiffenstuel – Country hotel with family rooms on the lake

Swabia

Allgäu

The Allgäu is the Heidi idyll brought to life: green pastures with contented cows, rugged mountains, deep-blue lakes, and endless forests. An absolute dream for nature lovers and hikers! We especially recommend the Breitnachklamm gorge and the Buchenegger Waterfalls for a day out.

The region is also home to two of Bavaria’s most beautiful castles — Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. More on those in just a moment.

Looking to truly treat yourself? The Allgäu has some fantastic wellness hotels — pure relaxation. And of course you can indulge in Allgäu cuisine to your heart’s content, because the Käsespätzle alone is honestly reason enough to make the trip.

Our Hotel Pick: Panoramahotel Oberjoch – 4-star wellness hotel in the mountains

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is probably the most iconic sight in Bavaria — the Disney dream of a fairy-tale castle made real. Seeing it perched on the hilltop with its turrets rising against the green mountains is simply one of a kind.

The opulent castle was built by King Ludwig II as a private retreat — one for which he squandered absurd sums of taxpayer money. He never saw its completion, drowning under mysterious circumstances in Lake Starnberg shortly after being declared unfit to rule.

Neuschwanstein is one of those places you absolutely have to see from the inside too. Since crowds are always enormous, it’s definitely worth buying your ticket online in advance.

Our Hotel Pick: Villa Ludwig – 4-star hotel within walking distance of the castle

From Munich: Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Read more about the most beautiful castles & palaces in Europe!

Lower Bavaria

Bavarian Forest

The Bavarian Forest is a national park right on the border with the Czech Republic. Many visitors know it mainly for one popular highlight: the Baumwipfelpfad Neuschönau treetop walk. The path takes you up to 82 feet above the ground, right through the tree canopy — a completely new way to experience the forest.

The Bavarian Forest is especially great for families. The wildlife enclosure at Lusen and Joska’s Glass Paradise in Bodenmais are a big hit with kids.

And like so many other regions in Bavaria, the Bavarian Forest is also superb for hiking. The highest peak is the Große Arber at 4,774 feet.

There are also some charming towns in the area, like Cham, if you fancy a leisurely stroll every now and then.

Our Hotel Pick: Landhaus Meine Auszeit – Beautiful boutique hotel in Bodenmais

Danube Gorge and Weltenburg Monastery

The Danube Gorge is one of our personal favorite spots in Bavaria — and since 2020 it’s also been officially designated a National Natural Monument. No surprise, really: the way the Danube winds between white limestone cliffs is simply breathtaking.

We highly recommend a boat trip from Kelheim. Alternatively, there are hiking trails for every fitness level. Either way, your destination should be Weltenburg Monastery, which welcomes you with a beer garden, a beautiful monastery garden, and the world’s oldest monastery brewery right on the banks of the Danube.

While you’re there, check out the Liberation Hall on Michelsberg hill. The round, temple-like all-white structure looks magnificent, and from the viewing platform you get a fantastic panoramic view over the Altmühl Valley.

Our Hotel Pick: Hotel am Ledererturm – Beautiful boutique hotel in Kelheim

Upper Palatinate

Regensburg

For us, Regensburg is a clear case of small but mighty. It’s not among the best-known places to visit in Bavaria — but did you know that Regensburg’s beautiful historic center has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status? Yep!

So which buildings do you absolutely have to see? In our opinion: the Stone Bridge, Regensburg Cathedral, Thurn and Taxis Palace, and St. Emmeram’s Palace Park.

We also simply love the vibe of the city. Regensburg is one of Bavaria’s most popular university cities: young, creative, and full of life.

Our Tip: In May and in fall, the Dult takes place — a folk festival with rides, shooting galleries, and festival tents. Think of it as the smaller, and above all more relaxed, version of Oktoberfest.

Our Hotel Pick: Goldenes Kreuz – Modern old-town hotel right on Haidplatz

Walhalla

Did we suddenly land in Greece? Not quite — but when you look at the Walhalla, you’d be forgiven for thinking so. The imposing structure really does look just like a Greek temple.

The interior is built entirely of white marble and features numerous busts of famous German figures such as Goethe and Kepler. On top of that, you get a fantastic view over the Danube.

The Walhalla is only a 20-minute drive from Regensburg, so you can easily stay in the city and make a quick side trip out there. There are no guided tours, but audio guides are available for a small fee.

Franconia

Nuremberg

Nuremberg is Bavaria’s second-largest city, and Basti even lived here for a while. Between old half-timbered houses and cool shopping streets, medieval heritage meets the energy of a modern university city.

The top must-sees in Nuremberg are the Imperial Castle, the Henkersteg, and the Frauenkirche. You can learn about National Socialism at the Documentation Center at the Nazi Party Rally Grounds — a truly moving museum. And if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the Toy Museum — super cool!

One thing that can’t go unmentioned: Nuremberg is famous for its Christkindlesmarkt! If you haven’t set a travel date yet, seriously consider visiting around Christmastime. Grab some authentic Nuremberg Lebkuchen, enjoy a bratwurst at the Christmas market, and soak it all in.

Our Hotel Pick: Hotel Five – Modern old-town hotel in a very central location

Guided walking tour of Nuremberg’s old town

Würzburg

The small city of Würzburg sits in one of Bavaria’s most beautiful wine regions, and you can enjoy many a fine glass here. Particularly charming is the Brückenschoppen: a small glass of wine enjoyed right on the Alte Mainbrücke bridge. Every evening visitors gather here to soak up the sunset.

But Würzburg has more to offer than great wine. With the Würzburg Cathedral, the Neumünster, and the Würzburg Residenz, the city boasts some truly magnificent buildings.

Just wander through this university city and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. The best vista, by the way, is from the Steinburg right in the middle of the vineyards.

Our Hotel Pick: Würzburger Hof – Modern 4-star hotel in the old town

Bamberg

A city built on seven hills? No, we’re not talking about Rome — we’re talking about Bamberg. It may be far less well-known, but it’s every bit as beautiful.

Bamberg has a picturesque historic center that’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Everywhere you look there are little alleyways with half-timbered houses, the Regnitz river branches through the city, and magnificent buildings like Bamberg Cathedral and the Town Hall grace the skyline.

We also recommend Bamberg if you love green cities. Right in the middle of town, fresh produce is grown in the Gartenstadt (garden city). And in the “Klein-Venedig” (Little Venice) neighborhood, you can stroll to your heart’s content. In short: Bamberg is pure idyll.

Our Hotel Pick: Altstadthotel Molitor – Lovingly decorated half-timbered house, central location

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Never heard of Rothenburg ob der Tauber? Fair enough — it’s no metropolis, but it is one of the most beautiful small towns in Germany.

Among narrow lanes lined with old half-timbered houses, slender towers, and handsome patrician mansions, a wonderful medieval atmosphere comes alive. The best way to enjoy Rothenburg is simply to wander through the old quarter, sip a coffee on the market square with a view of the town hall, or let your mind wander in the sea of flowers in the Burggarten.

Rothenburg is also great for active travelers: the Tauber Valley offers countless routes for cycling and hiking.

Our Hotel Pick: Romantik Hotel Markusturm – Central boutique hotel in a historic half-timbered building

Fichtelgebirge

Great mountains and green forests aren’t found only in the Alps — northern Bavaria has a seriously impressive mountain landscape in the Fichtelgebirge too. The region is defined by enormous quirky rock formations and seemingly endless conifer forests.

You can go hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding here — everything an outdoor enthusiast could want. The star attraction is the Schneeberg, which at 3,448 feet is the highest peak in the Fichtelgebirge. No comparison to the Zugspitze, of course — but that also means you don’t need exceptional fitness to reach the top.

The Fichtelgebirge is also well known for its numerous thermal baths, said to have healing properties for a wide range of ailments.

Our Hotel Pick: Hotel Am Fichtelsee – Beautiful, rustic hotel in a quiet location on the lake

Franconian Switzerland

Wonder where Franconian Switzerland got its name? The sweeping mountain landscapes look so much like its big sister, Switzerland, that you could easily mistake one for the other.

What makes Franconian Switzerland so special is the mystical atmosphere created by around 1,000 caves and medieval castles. The most well-known is the Felsburg Tüchersfeld, which appears to cling to the rock face in a bizarrely improbable way.

Franconian Switzerland is also a paradise for anyone who appreciates a good beer. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, it has the highest density of breweries in the world.

And if you’re traveling with kids, this is a great choice too. You’ll find many family-friendly activities, including a ride on the traditional steam train.

Our Tip: Bamberg, our #18, is right next to Franconian Switzerland. We recommend staying in the city and making day trips into Franconian Switzerland from there.

Teufelshöhle Pottenstein

The Teufelshöhle is also located in Franconian Switzerland and is one of the most beautiful stalactite caves in all of Bavaria. Enormous stalactites hang from the ceiling, and even larger stalagmites rise up from the floor. The colorful light installations make the whole scene even more impressive.

The scale of the Teufelshöhle is simply staggering: it stretches a total of nearly two miles and in some places is so high that an entire church steeple would fit inside.

The 45-minute guided tour takes you down — and mostly back up — over 400 steps into the cave. The effort is absolutely worth it!

Heads up: The cave stays very cool inside no matter the time of year. Make sure to bring a warm layer!

Our Hotel Pick: Bruckmayers Gästehaus – Just a 4-minute drive from the cave