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When Americans think about Germany, they usually think of Bavaria first. This isn’t surprising since Bavaria is the origin of export hits like the Oktoberfest, traditional lederhosen, dirndl and good old German beer. But there’s a lot more to do in Germany’s biggest state than attending Munich’s Oktoberfest!
Bavaria not only scores with its rich culture (The wine fests! The beer fests! The food!) but also with its gorgeous scenery. This southern German state has all the stunning rivers, mountain ranges, lakes, and forests you could dream of, so you shouldn’t miss out on them during your stay.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a charming medieval city
Located in the Franconian region of Bavaria close to the Baden-Württemberg state border, Rothenburg is a charming small town that is sure to fascinate visitors with the outstanding medieval architecture of its old town which has (among others) served as a film location for scenes in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1.
You can enjoy spectacular views of the town by taking a walk on the top level of the original city walls or just by strolling through the mazes of amazing alleys flanked by gorgeous timber houses. In summer, there’s a town parade every Saturday from 8-11 a.m. where you can get a peek at the various regional communities and traditions. If you’re a Christmas enthusiast, stop by the German Christmas Museum for exhibits on unusual and rare Christmas decorations from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Bamberg, home to 9 breweries and ‘Little Venice’
Bamberg, formerly an important base for American military stationed at Warner Barracks, is located in Upper Franconia by the river Regnitz and has lots to offer to visitors.
Its old town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, mainly because of its authentic medieval appearance. For a great view overlooking the town, take a trip to Altenburg castle, which was built on Bamberg’s highest hill before 1109 and nowadays hosts a restaurant.
“Little Venice,” a colony of fishermen’s houses from the 19th century along the riverbank, is considered unique to Bamberg. Another thing Bamberg is known for is its beer, especially its smoked beer (Rauchbier). You can try it at one of Bamberg’s nine breweries, for example at Schlenkerla, the historic smoke beer brewery.
Margravial Residence of stunning Bayreuth
Bayreuth, the biggest city in Upper Franconia, is sure to attract lovers of classical music — it hosts the infamous Bayreuth Festival Theatre as well as numerous other music and theatre festivals throughout the year. The Margravial Opera House is definitely a sight worth seeing, being the self-proclaimed “most beautiful preserved Baroque Theatre in Europe” and part of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage since 2012.
The New Castle, built by the French architect St. Pierre in 1753, will stun you with its Rococo beauty. To take a closer look at the Old Palace with an inner cave, water games and a fabulous orangery, including a central sun temple, take a trip to the historical park Eremitage Museum on the outskirts of the city.
Bayreuth is also considered the global center of interest in composer Richard Wagner and his works, having operated the Richard Wagner Museum since its opening in 1976.
The historical Romantic Road
In post-war times, Germany was desperate to find a way to rebuild its tourism industry and created the idea for the formal route called Romantic Road in 1950. According to the official website, the first visitors were friends and families of the American soldiers stationed in the large bases in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg.
The Romantic road combines the historic cities of Würzburg and Augsburg with the three medieval walled towns of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen, and then finishes off with the tourist highlights of Neuschwanstein Castle and the Alps. You can either take a bus tour along this beautiful route or explore parts of it on your own, in which case the official website gives you lots of information.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is really one of those “can’t-miss places” in Bavaria. Fans of maximalist architecture and art will truly get their money’s worth here. Inspired by medieval art and operas, the castle features lots of dark wood, bright colors, intricate gold details, and swans, the king’s favorite animal.
The construction of this castle started in 1860 and was never finished due to King Ludwig II’s untimely death. Despite the king explicitly not wanting visitors at his castle during his lifetime, 60 million people have visited it since it was first opened as a museum only 6 weeks after his death.
Starnberg’s Five-Lakes-Region
The Starnberg Five-Lakes-Region is located just 30mins south of Munich, which makes it the perfect spot to visit for some relaxing time away from the city. There’s lots of gorgeous lakes to hike around or even surf in. There are great walks and hikes in the region, as well as plenty of mountain biking opportunities.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed activity, visit Possenhofen Castle (Karl-Theodor-Straße 14, 82343 Pöcking), the once infamous Austrian Empress Elisabeth’s childhood home, which is now a private property. You can still get a look at the gorgeous building when you’re strolling through the neighborhood.
Perhaps sporting less of a rich history but beautiful nonetheless is Ammerland Castle (Nördliche Seestraße 13, 82541 Münsing), located at the other side of Lake Starnberg. Honestly, if you want to enjoy a good look at some historically stunning buildings, just look up “castles near Starnberg” on Google Maps. The region is overflowing with them. You could even plan a fun day trip just looking at castles and stopping by cafés on your way!
Nürnberg/Nuremberg
Famous for culinary highlights like Nürnberger Lebkuchen (gingerbread), beautiful architecture and a fascinating history, Nürnberg is a popular day- or weekend-trip destinations amongst people living in or visiting Bavaria.
Würzburg
Würzburg on the romantic road is surrounded by vineyards. It also has both a fortress and a residency including gorgeous gardens and is just a very lovely city overall.
Augsburg
This quaint city is famous for the Augsburger Puppenkiste, a kids’ tv show about wooden puppets. It’s also a fantastic spot to visit for culinary treasures, great architecture, and shopping.
Due to regulations to prevent the spread of COVID-19, bookings and trips may be cancelled or postponed, and travel to neighboring countries may not be allowed. Please verify the status before making plans to attend. For U.S. government employees, including service members, remember to always follow command regulations, which may be different than host nation policies.
