About Bavaria
Bavaria is Germany's largest federal state and one of Europe's most popular travel destinations. From the cosmopolitan bustle of Munich to the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, from the Zugspitze summit at 2,962m to the tranquil Chiemsee lake, Bavaria offers an extraordinary range of experiences. The state is famous worldwide for Oktoberfest, its beer hall culture, traditional Lederhosen and Dirndl, and the Romantic Road touring route. Bavaria boasts more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than most countries, including Regensburg's medieval old town, Bamberg's historic city, the Wieskirche pilgrimage church, and the Würzburg Residenz.
Quick Overview
Capital: Munich
Largest City: Munich
Population: 13.1 million
Languages: German, Bavarian dialect
Currency: Euro
Time Zone: Europe/Berlin (UTC+1, UTC+2 in summer)
Explore Bavaria by Topic
Best Places to Visit in Bavaria
Discover the top 25 must-see destinations in Bavaria, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures.
Recommended Itineraries for Bavaria
Plan your perfect Bavaria trip with our expertly crafted itineraries for every travel style and duration.
5-Day Bavaria Explorer
- Day 1: Arrive in Bavaria, explore city center
- Day 2: Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3: Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4: Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5: Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Bavaria
- Days 1-2: Bavaria city highlights
- Days 3-4: Regional exploration
- Days 5-6: Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7: Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Bavaria
- Days 1-3: Bavaria comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6: Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9: Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12: Southern attractions
- Days 13-14: Return to Bavaria, departure
Where to Stay in Bavaria
From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, Bavaria offers accommodations for every traveler.
Budget Options (€60-80)
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-Range (€120-180)
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury (€300+)
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich
Munich's grandest hotel, opened in 1858 on Maximilianstrasse. The Vier Jahreszeiten offers 305 rooms and suites with lavish period furnishings, a world-class spa (Spa Vier Jahreszeiten), and the celebrated Schwarzreiter restaurant. The hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, and heads of state for over 160 years.
Bayerischer Hof Munich
An iconic Munich institution since 1841, the Bayerischer Hof is steps from Marienplatz and Theatinerstrasse. The hotel encompasses a full city block and features 337 rooms, multiple restaurants (including the Michelin-starred Atelier), the legendary Blue Spa rooftop, and a jazz club. Visited by German presidents, film stars, and the world's glitterati.
Mandarin Oriental Munich
A refined 5-star hotel occupying a historic neo-Renaissance building near the Englischer Garten. Just 73 rooms and suites make this one of Munich's most intimate luxury properties. The rooftop pool with city views is unique in Munich. The restaurant Mark's serves modern European cuisine.
Hotel Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Housed in the magnificent neo-Baroque former Bavarian Post building next to Munich Hauptbahnhof, the Sofitel Bayerpost seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern French luxury. 396 rooms and suites, a large spa (Le Spa by Sofitel), and the Délice restaurant distinguish this property.
Where to Eat in Bavaria
Discover the culinary delights of Bavaria, from local street food to fine dining experiences.
Tantris
Munich's most revered fine dining restaurant, founded in 1971 by Hans Haas and still holding 2 Michelin stars. Tantris occupies a stunning 1970s brutalist building in Schwabing and serves modern European cuisine with classical French influences. The cellar contains over 30,000 wine bottles. Reservations essential.
Atelier at Bayerischer Hof
Jan Hartwig's 3-Michelin-star restaurant inside the Bayerischer Hof hotel, consistently voted one of Germany's finest dining experiences. Atelier serves a single multi-course tasting menu emphasising outstanding seasonal ingredients and precision technique. The intimate 22-seat restaurant offers an immersive culinary event.
EssZimmer BMW Welt
Bobby Bräuer's 2-Michelin-star restaurant on the upper level of BMW Welt, with panoramic views of the Olympic Park. EssZimmer serves modern European cuisine with a focus on regional ingredients elevated to an extraordinary level. The unique automotive-cultural setting makes this a memorable special occasion restaurant.
Restaurant Hubert
A contemporary fine dining restaurant in Munich's Maxvorstadt near the Pinakothek museums, serving modern cuisine with clean, seasonal flavours. Hubert has established itself as a strong 1-Michelin-star destination for Munich's sophisticated dining scene.
Hofbräuhaus Munich
The world's most famous beer hall and restaurant, serving traditional Bavarian dishes in a 3,500-seat historic setting since 1589. The Schwemme (ground floor) serves the classic menu of Schweinshaxe, Weisswurst, Obatzda, pretzels, and roast chicken alongside HB's own beers brewed on-site. A brass band plays traditional Bavarian music throughout the day.
Augustiner-Keller
Founded in 1812, Augustiner-Keller is one of Munich's oldest and most beloved beer establishments with a 5,000-seat beer garden under 100-year-old chestnut trees. Augustiner Bräu is widely considered Munich's finest brewery. The attached restaurant serves traditional Bavarian cuisine. A favourite of locals over tourists.
Getting Around Bavaria
Bavaria has excellent public transport centred on Munich's S-Bahn/U-Bahn network, with regional trains linking cities across the state
Budget Breakdown for Bavaria
Plan your spending with our comprehensive cost guide. Currency: EUR.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €25-40 | €70-120 | €180-500 |
| Food (per day) | €15-25 | €35-55 | €80-150 |
| Transportation | €5-10 | €15-20 | €30-60 |
| Activities | €10-15 | €20-35 | €50-100 |
| Daily Total | €60-80 | €120-180 | €300+ |
Best Time to Visit Bavaria
Best Season: Year-round
Essential Travel Tips for Bavaria
- Buy the Bavaria Ticket for cheap regional train travel — one ticket covers up to 5 people
- Book Neuschwanstein Castle tickets online months in advance especially in summer
- Oktoberfest tent reservations should be made months ahead for weekends
- Tap water is safe and delicious throughout Bavaria
- Sunday closures are widespread — plan grocery shopping for weekdays or Saturdays
- Munich's MVV public transport is efficient; buy day passes at the airport
- Many Alpine cable cars and ski lifts offer combination tickets
- Cash is still king in many traditional Bavarian restaurants and rural areas
Safety Information
Travel Advisory
Bavaria is one of Germany's safest regions. Exercise normal precautions in Munich city center. Exercise extra caution during Oktoberfest (pickpocketing). Mountain hiking requires proper preparation — weather changes rapidly in the Alps.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Bavaria?
The best time to visit Bavaria is year-round. Check local conditions may have less favorable conditions.
Do I need a visa for Bavaria?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest embassy or consulate for Bavaria for current requirements before travel.
How many days do I need in Bavaria?
For a comprehensive Bavaria experience, we recommend 7-10 days. However, you can have a great trip in 5 days focusing on highlights.
Is Bavaria expensive to visit?
Budget travelers can expect €60-80 per day, mid-range €120-180, and luxury €300+.