Bavaria is a state in southern Germany known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. From stunning alpine landscapes and scenic lakes to historic castles and charming villages, Bavaria offers a wealth of attractions for travelers of all ages and interests. In this article, we’ll highlight the top 10 must-see attractions in Bavaria to help you plan your next trip.
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- English Garden
- Marienplatz
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Zugspitze
- Nymphenburg Palace
- St. Peter’s Order
- Eagle’s Nest
- Oberammergau
- Chiemsee
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most famous and beautiful castles in the world, located in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Built by King Ludwig II in the late 19th century, this fairy-tale castle served as inspiration for the iconic castle in Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty.” Today, visitors can tour the castle’s ornate interior and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from its terraces and balconies.
2. English Garden
The English Garden is a public park in Munich that covers over 900 acres and is one of the largest urban parks in the world. The park features rolling lawns, picturesque lakes, and beautifully landscaped gardens, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. The park is also home to a number of landmarks and attractions, including the famous Chinese Tower beer garden and the beautiful Monopteros temple.
3. Marienplatz
Marienplatz is the central square in Munich and is surrounded by some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the New Town Hall and the Old Town Hall. The square is a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors and is the starting point for many of Munich’s city tours. Be sure to visit Marienplatz during the holidays to see the famous Christmas market and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
5. Zugspitze
Zugspitze is the highest peak in the Bavarian Alps and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the peak or hike the many trails that lead to the summit. At the top of the peak, there is a viewing platform and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the stunning panoramic views.
6. Nymphenburg Palace
Nymphenburg Palace is a stunning Baroque palace located in Munich and was once the summer residence of the Bavarian royalty. The palace features beautiful gardens, ornate rooms, and works of art from some of the greatest artists of the time. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history and admire its stunning architecture and art collections.
7. St. Peter’s Order
St. Peter’s Order is a historic monastic complex located in the town of Salzburg and is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can tour the complex to learn about its history and admire its many works of art and frescoes. The complex is also a popular spot for concerts and other cultural events throughout the year.
8. Eagle’s Nest
The Eagle’s Nest is a historic building located near Berchtesgaden that was once used by Hitler as a retreat. Today, visitors can take a scenic drive up to the building and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the beautiful Königssee lake. The Eagle’s Nest is also a popular starting point for hikes and other outdoor activities in the surrounding mountains.
9. Oberammergau
Oberammergau is a charming Bavarian village located in the Ammergau Alps and is known for its beautiful wood carvings, traditional architecture, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the village to see the colorful houses, stroll through the gardens, and shop for souvenirs. Oberammergau is also famous for its Passion Play, a theatrical performance that takes place every 10 years and retells the story of the Passion of Jesus.
10. Chiemsee
Chiemsee is a beautiful lake located in the heart of Bavaria and is surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to admire the views and visit the two beautiful islands, Herreninsel and Fraueninsel, which are home to historic castles and monasteries. Chiemsee is a popular destination for swimming, sailing, and other water sports, and there are many scenic hiking trails in the surrounding mountains that offer stunning views of the lake and its surroundings. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Chiemsee is a must-see destination in Bavaria that should not be missed.
In conclusion, Bavaria is a truly incredible destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there is always something to see and do in this beautiful region. The top 10 things to see in Bavaria include Neuschwanstein Castle, Marienplatz, Englischer Garten, Hohenschwangau Castle, Zugspitze, Nymphenburg Palace, St. Peter’s Order, Eagle’s Nest, Oberammergau, and Chiemsee. Make sure to add these amazing sights to your itinerary the next time you visit Bavaria!
We hope that this guide has given you some ideas for what to see and do in Bavaria. If you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always here to help you make the most of your travels.