Complete Guide to Bavaria (2025)

Augsburg, nestled in the Swabian region of Bavaria in southern Germany, offers a delightful blend of urban charm and green retreats. Begin your visit at the bustling Rathausplatz, where the Renaissance Town Hall and Perlachturm tower over lively cafés and street musicians. Just a short stroll away, the historic Fuggerei—world’s oldest social housing complex—invites you to wander its peaceful courtyards and colorful façades before venturing along the canal-lined streets toward the quiet refuge of the botanical gardens.

When it’s time to dine, Augsburg’s culinary scene shines with hearty Bavarian–Swabian specialties and inventive modern fare. Traditional beer gardens spill under chestnut trees along the banks of the Lech, serving crispy pork knuckles, hand-made spätzle, and local Weisswurst paired with freshly brewed lagers. For a lighter meal, artisanal bakeries offer pretzels still warm from the oven and creamy Obazda cheese spreads, perfect for a picnic on the riverbank or in the shadow of the centuries-old Stadtmarkt hall.

Beyond the city’s historic core, Augsburg makes an ideal base for exploring the wider region of Bavaria. Rent a bike to follow the scenic Lech canal all the way to the edge of the Alps, or join a guided tour along the Romantic Road’s medieval towns and castles. Art lovers will appreciate the modern galleries in the university quarter, while families can spend a day at the nearby Augsburg Zoo or the grand cool waters of the Stadtwerke swimming complex. Whether you seek urban culture, riverside relaxation, or easy adventures into Bavaria’s landscapes, Augsburg delivers a welcoming blend of German hospitality and regional character.

Würzburg sits amid the rolling vineyards of the Main Valley in northern Bavaria, Germany, making it a perfect base for exploring both river-side promenades and hillside wine trails. Its compact city center is easily walkable, with pedestrianized lanes linking café-lined squares to the Baroque grandeur of the Residenz and the cathedral. Strolling along the Alte Mainbrücke at sunset—where locals gather to sip Franconian wine—offers a magical introduction to Würzburg’s relaxed, yet sophisticated, atmosphere.

Beyond the historic core, the surrounding region teems with opportunities for day trips: cycle along the Main River to charming villages like Volkach or venture up to the terraced vineyards of the Steinberg for panoramic views. The city’s excellent tram and bus network also reaches the nearby University district and the botanical gardens, where seasonal blooms provide a serene escape. Culinary highlights include hearty bratwurst with sauerkraut, fine local cheeses and, of course, the region’s celebrated Silvaner and Müller-Thurgau wines enjoyed in traditional taverns.

Throughout the year, Würzburg’s calendar is dotted with vibrant events that draw both locals and visitors. In spring, outdoor concerts enliven palace courtyards; summer brings the Africa Festival and a grand wine festival on the fortress grounds; and winter lights up with a traditional Christmas market around the cathedral. Nestled in the heart of northern Bavaria, Würzburg combines the charm of a riverside town with the cultural buzz of a university city—an inviting destination for every season.

Situated in Upper Franconia, Germany, near the confluence of the Regnitz and Main rivers, Bamberg is a town with a rich history dating back to the 9th century, deriving its name from the nearby Babenberch castle. Renowned for its exceptional beauty, the old town of Bamberg is considered one of Germany’s most captivating destinations, characterized by its medieval streets and the largest intact old city wall in Europe. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993, Bamberg’s preservation of its historical charm is widely celebrated.

During the 10th century, Bamberg played a significant role as a vital connection to the Slavic peoples, particularly those in Poland and Pomerania. Its fortunes thrived from the 12th century onwards, briefly serving as the center of the Holy Roman Empire. Notably, Emperor Henry II and his wife Kunigunde were laid to rest in the old town. The architectural influence of Bamberg from this era left an indelible mark on the regions of Northern Germany and Hungary. The bishops, who became princes of the Empire in the middle of the 13th century, governed Bamberg and oversaw the construction of grand edifices that contributed to the town’s growth. Acquiring substantial portions of the estates of the Counts of Meran, both by purchase and appropriation of extinguished fiefs, further bolstered its prosperity.

Following the secularization of church lands in 1802, Bamberg lost its independence and became part of Bavaria in 1803. The town’s integration with the German rail system in 1844 significantly influenced its infrastructure. After the Bavarian Soviet Republic took control over Bavaria in the aftermath of World War I, the state government sought refuge in Bamberg for nearly two years before Munich was recaptured by Freikorps units. In Bamberg, the first republican constitution of Bavaria, known as the Bamberger Verfassung (Bamberg Constitution), was enacted.

Following the Second World War, Bamberg played a crucial role as a base for the Bavarian, German, and later American military stationed at Warner Barracks until its closure in 2014.

Nördlingen is a historic town in the region of Swabia, located in Bavaria, Germany. It is situated in a large meteorite crater, and the town’s unique location has made it a popular tourist destination.

One of the town’s most notable attractions is its well-preserved medieval walls, which encircle the town and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the walls and towers, which date back to the 14th century, and take in the picturesque views of the town and the nearby Ries Crater.

Another popular attraction in Nördlingen is the St. George’s Church, which is located in the town’s central square. The church features a striking Gothic interior, and its tower provides panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape.

The town also has a number of other historic buildings, including the historic town hall and the Heilig-Geist-Spital, a former hospital that now houses a museum and art gallery.

Nördlingen is also known for its annual Kinderzeche festival, which celebrates the town’s history and culture. The festival takes place in July and features a range of events, including traditional music, dance performances, and a historical parade.

Overall, Nördlingen is a charming town with a rich history and a range of attractions for visitors to explore. Its unique location and well-preserved architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Bavaria.

Füssen, nestled in the heart of Bavaria’s Allgäu region near the Austrian border, greets visitors with a picture-perfect Old Town framed by pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone lanes. Its compact pedestrian zone leads naturally from the baroque St. Mang’s Abbey to the Lech River, where shaded benches invite you to linger over a gelato or a stein of local beer. Quaint cafés and artisanal shops line the streets, making it easy to sample Bretzeln warm from the oven or browse for handcrafted cuckoo clocks without straying far from the main square.

Just a short ride from the town center, the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau top many Füssen itineraries. Perched against a backdrop of forested hills, these 19th-century palaces offer guided tours that bring King Ludwig II’s romantic vision to life. Beyond the castles, the shimmering expanse of the Forggensee lake invites summer visitors to paddle, sail, or simply stroll its shores; in winter, the same slopes transform into cross-country ski trails with Alpine vistas.

Surrounded by the Tannheimer and Ammergau Alps, Füssen is also a gateway to outdoor adventures in southern Bavaria. Hiking trails fan out from the town—wander through meadows bursting with edelweiss or climb to panoramic viewpoints overlooking mountain lakes. Mountain-bike routes and e-bike rentals provide an active alternative, while families can explore the Bavarian Alps Adventure Park or take a leisurely boat cruise on the Forggensee. After a day in the crisp mountain air, local taverns serve hearty Swabian dishes—Maultaschen, Käsespätzle, and robust mountain cheeses—that perfectly round out the Füssen experience.

Dinkelsbühl, nestled in the heart of Bavaria’s Franconian region along the famed Romantic Road, greets visitors with its perfectly preserved medieval walls and colorful half-timbered houses. Begin your day wandering the pedestrianized streets of the Old Town, where artisan shops, bakeries, and cozy cafés line the cobbles. Stop for a freshly baked Brötchen and a strong German coffee at a pavement table overlooking the Weinmarkt before exploring the charming side alleys that reveal hidden courtyards and fountains.

When it comes to dining, Dinkelsbühl offers a delicious taste of Franconian cuisine. Traditional taverns serve hearty dishes like Schäufele (pork shoulder) and Käsespätzle, paired with regional brews or a glass of local Silvaner. In summer, many restaurants extend their beer gardens into the narrow lanes, creating a convivial al fresco atmosphere beneath festoon lights. For lighter fare, food stalls around the Market Square offer seasonal produce, bratwurst, and sweet treats—ideal for a casual picnic on one of the grassy ramparts.

Beyond the walls, the surrounding countryside beckons with scenic cycling and hiking routes. Rent a bike near the train station and follow the Tauber Valley path through vineyards and orchards, or tackle gentle forest trails that reward you with panoramic views of Dinkelsbühl’s red-tiled rooftops. If you prefer a slower pace, a riverside stroll along the Wörnitz offers peaceful water views and the chance to spot native waterfowl. Whether you’re here for gastronomy, outdoor adventure, or simply the magic of an intact medieval town, Dinkelsbühl in Bavaria delivers an unforgettable experience.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, nestled in the heart of Bavaria’s Franconian wine country, feels like a living storybook town the moment you step through its medieval gates. Begin your visit with a gentle walk along the town walls—each step offers a different vantage point over the terracotta rooftops and surrounding countryside. Inside the walls, the pedestrian-only lanes are lined with artisan workshops, bakeries, and cozy cafés where you can pause for a Schneeballen pastry and a strong coffee before exploring hidden courtyards and tranquil gardens.

When hunger strikes, sample hearty Bavarian–Franconian cuisine in one of the traditional taverns clustered around the Market Square. Classics like Schäufele (slow-roasted pork shoulder) and Bratwurst pair perfectly with a glass of locally produced Silvaner or Müller-Thurgau. In summer and autumn, many restaurants spill out onto cobbled streets under festoon lights, creating a convivial al fresco scene. For a lighter bite, pop into the weekly farmers’ market to taste regional cheeses, smoked sausages, and freshly baked breads—ideal for an impromptu picnic on a sunny bench by the Tauber River.

Beyond the walls, the gently rolling hills of northern Bavaria beckon with cycling and hiking trails that wind through vineyards and orchards. Rent a bike near the town entrance and pedal along the Tauber Valley cycle path, stopping at family-run wineries to learn about Franconian winemaking and sip their fine vintages. If you’d rather stay on two feet, guided walking tours will lead you to panoramic viewpoints and hidden chapels perched on hilltops. Whether you’re here for gastronomy, scenic walks, or simply the magic of Bavaria’s best-preserved medieval gem, Rothenburg ob der Tauber delivers an unforgettable experience.

Röttingen sits in the heart of Bavaria’s Lower Franconia region, offering a wonderfully compact old town that’s perfect for leisurely exploration. Begin by wandering the medieval walls and gates that encircle the Market Square, where charming half-timbered houses give way to artisan bakeries and cozy cafés. Mid-morning, settle at an outdoor table overlooking the Tauber River to enjoy a freshly baked pretzel and strong coffee before meandering through narrow lanes lined with colorful window boxes.

Food and drink are highlights here—Röttingen is part of Franconia’s renowned wine country, so be sure to sample the local Silvaner and Müller-Thurgau in one of the town’s traditional wine taverns. Many inns spill their tables onto cobblestones beneath festoon lights during the warmer months, creating an inviting al fresco atmosphere. Seasonal markets often showcase regional cheeses, smoked sausages, and handmade preserves—perfect for assembling a picnic to enjoy on a bench by the riverside or atop the town walls at sunset.

Beyond the old town, the gently rolling vineyards and orchards of the Tauber valley beckon. Rent a bike to follow the scenic cycle path along the river, stopping at family-run wineries for impromptu tastings, or lace up your walking boots to explore hiking trails that wind through forested slopes and terraced vines. Day trips to nearby villages reveal more half-timbered gems and panoramic viewpoints, making Röttingen an ideal base for experiencing the pastoral charm of southern Germany.