Bavaria
From the cloud-shredding Alps to the fertile Danube plain, the Free State of Bavaria is a place that keeps its clichéd promises. Story-book castles bequeathed by an oddball king poke through dark forest, cowbells tinkle in flower-filled meadows, the thwack of palm on Lederhosen accompanies the clump of frothy stein on timber bench, and medieval walled towns go about their time-warped business.
©syolacan/Getty Images
- Marc DiDuca|Feb 23, 2026The top 10 things to do in Bavaria, Germany
- Marc DiDuca|Sep 16, 2025Beyond Oktoberfest: alternative beer festivals in Bavaria
- Kate Mann|Oct 25, 2024The best of Bavaria, beyond the mainstream
- Kate Mann|Sep 9, 2024Counting down Bavaria’s top 10 castles
Dreaming of Bavaria? Protect your trip
Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.
We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Take your Germany trip with Lonely Planet Journeys
Pick one of our ready-to-book trips or fully customize your own with help from our local experts.
bookable trip
8 Days in Germany: Frankfurt, Munich and Stuttgart
8 days / 7 nights
highlights
- 1 Channeling your inner royal at Bavaria's many, magnificent castles, including Neuschwanstein
- 2 Cheering for your favorite Bundesliga team at a thrilling PreZero Arena match
- 3 Satiating your need for speed with optional visits to Germany's BMW and Mercedes-Benz museums
from $3,600
per person
Explore more trips
Explore more trips

13 days / 12 nights
Gems of Germany: Cross-Country Castles, Culture, and Cuisine in 13 Days
FROM $4,570
per person
Top places to visit in Bavaria
Discover the best attractions in Bavaria from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.
Travel Guides
Bavaria travel tips from Lonely Planet experts
Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.
Best Things to Do
Bavaria’s landscapes, traditions, and culture make it a must-visit destination in Germany
Read full article
Things to Know
Plan your trip to Bavaria in southern Germany with these tips on money, etiquette, health and safety.
Read full article
Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.
in partnership with getyourguide













