Live out your fairy tale dreams in Bavaria. This enchanting pocket of Germany is dotted with medieval towns, centuries-old castles and snow-dusted mountains. Visit UNESCO-listed palaces, explore the postcard-perfect countryside and discover the legacy of the “mad” king.
Things to do in Bavaria
Of all the storybook castles in Bavaria, Schloss Neuschwanstein is the most famous. King Ludwig II designed the castle in the 1800s and incorporated a meringue of towers and turrets. If it looks familiar, it’s because the castle inspired the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle that towers over Disneyland. Unlock the best views of the chocolate-box castle from Mary’s Bridge. Guided tours take you into the lavishly furnished rooms.
Ride a cogwheel train and exhilarating cable car to the summit of Zugspitze. At 2,962 metres above sea level, it’s one of the tallest peaks in Germany and commands breathtaking views over the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Get lost in the English Garden, one of the biggest urban parks in Europe. Paths wind through the park and take you through sun-dappled stands of oak and maple trees. Enjoy a picnic in an emerald-green meadow and watch buskers entertain passers-by. Rent a rowboat and paddle around the central lake before heading to the atmospheric beer garden.
Visit Regensburg and explore one of the best-preserved medieval Old Towns in Europe. The city is quintessentially Bavarian and features a skyline of gabled roofs, Gothic spires and flying buttresses. Cafes and restaurants spill onto the cobbled laneways.
From bratwurst to sauerkraut, Bavaria is synonymous with hearty cuisine. As you travel around the region, you’ll start to recognise dishes like “leberknödelsuppe” liver dumpling soup, “weisswurst” white sausages and crumbed schnitzel. Treat yourself to “kaiserschmarrn” sugar-dusted pancakes and apple strudel for dessert. Bavaria is famous for beer, but you’ll also find excellent wine. Look for pinot noirs and Rieslings from the Franconian winemaking region.
Getting around Bavaria
All cities, towns and villages in Bavaria are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Trains are a fast and affordable way to travel between destinations, or you can rent a car. Munich International Airport is a gateway to Bavaria.