Discover the Best of Munich and Bavaria
Planning a trip to Munich and Bavaria? This Travel Guide to Munich and Bavaria will help you explore a region where rich history meets breathtaking landscapes. After living in Munich for over 10 years, I’ve discovered the best that Bavaria has to offer — from outdoor adventures in the Alps to the most beautiful castles and cultural sites.
In this ultimate travel guide, I’ll share the top places to visit in Munich and beyond, including Neuschwanstein Castle, hidden alpine lakes, and scenic mountain hikes. You’ll also find essential packing tips, how to book tours, and an easy-to-use map to make your journey smooth and unforgettable.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Munich and Bavaria?
Munich is great all year, but the best time really depends on what you’re hoping to see and do. Each season has its own vibe — from snowy adventures to sunny days in the beer gardens — so it’s worth thinking about what kind of trip you want before you book.
Late Spring |
Summer |
Fall |
Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
(May to June)
|
(July to August)
|
(September to October)
|
(December to February)
|
Min15°C (59°F) Max 25°C (77°F) |
Min 20°C (68°F) Max 30°C (86°F) |
Min 10°C (50°F) Max 20°C (68°F) |
Min -5°C (23°F) Max 5°C (41°F) |
Pleasant weather, outdoor activities, fewer crowds.
|
Festivals, outdoor adventures, vibrant city life.
|
Beautiful fall, Oktoberfest (late September to the first weekend in October), mild weather.
|
Christmas markets, winter sports, snow-covered landscapes.
|
Tip: Cherry Blossom mid-end of May in Olympia Park
|
Tip: Summer is the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds at major attractions like Neuschwanstein Castle.
|
Tip: If you’re visiting for Oktoberfest, book accommodations well in advance, as this is the busiest time in Munich.
|
Tip: if you like winter sports I would recommend Jan-Feb as snow might be shallow in December still (check conditions at the mountains you want to visit).
|
What to Pack for Your Trip to Munich & Bavaria
Bavaria’s diverse landscapes and seasonal weather require some thoughtful packing. Here’s what you’ll need to bring to ensure you’re comfortable and prepared for both urban and outdoor adventures.
Clothing Essentials
Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Munich and the surrounding areas, so a good pair of walking shoes is essential.
Layered Clothing: Weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers. A lightweight jacket, long-sleeve shirts, and sweaters are great for cooler mornings or evenings.
Rain Gear: Bavaria is known for its rain, so pack a waterproof jacket or an umbrella, especially if you’re visiting during the fall or spring.
Hiking Gear: For those tackling trails around the lakes and mountains, bring hiking boots, breathable activewear, and a backpack with water and snacks.
Sun Protection: Even in cooler months, the sun can be strong in the mountains. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen for face & body, and a hat.
Travel Essentials
Travel Adapter: Germany uses the European two-prong plug, so I would always recommend packing a universal adapter.
Camera Gear: Bavaria is incredibly photogenic, so don’t forget your camera! A lightweight mirrorless camera or DSLR with an all-in-one zoom lens, and an action camera will help you capture both nature and cultural sites.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially on hiking trips.
Portable Power Bank: For long days of exploration, a power bank ensures your devices stay charged for photos, maps, and navigation.
Explore the best of Munich & Bavaria
To make the most of your time in Bavaria, consider booking guided tours through GetYourGuide. These tours offer skip-the-line access, expert guides, and transportation from Munich to some of the region’s top attractions. Here are a few of the best:
Best Tours to Take in Munich
Munich Bike Tour with Beer Garden Stop
Se você quer explorar muitos dos principais pontos turísticos de Munique em um único dia, este passeio de bicicleta é uma ótima escolha. É uma forma divertida e ativa de conhecer a cidade, com uma parada tradicional em um biergarten — uma experiência imperdível em Munique.Third Reich and WWII Walking Tour in Munich
Para os apaixonados por história, este tour mergulha no papel de Munique durante o Terceiro Reich e a Segunda Guerra Mundial. Você visitará locais históricos importantes e ouvirá relatos poderosos — apenas lembre-se de que, embora fotos sejam permitidas, gravar o guia não é, devido à natureza sensível do tema. Dica: assista a um vídeo de “antes e depois” de Munique antes de ir para entender melhor as transformações ao longo do tempo.Munich Old Town Guided Walking Tour
Perfeito para quem visita Munique pela primeira vez, este passeio guiado cobre os destaques da belíssima cidade velha. Você vai explorar praças encantadoras, prédios históricos e locais que talvez passassem despercebidos se estivesse sozinho.
Interactive Map of Must-See Spots in and around Munich
To further explore the city, if you like to navigate it yourself, I have marked all the important sightseeing and museums you can visit. The best way to get around in Munich is with their public transport (MVG) metro (Ubahn). You can buy single or group day tickets at every station.
The map also includes all-day trip suggestions from castles to nature and adventure.
My Favorite Places to Explore in Munich on Your Own
If you love walking through cities at your own pace, Munich is perfect for it. Here are my favorite spots to discover:
Isar River
The Isar River runs through the heart of Munich, offering beautiful walking and cycling paths along its banks. In summer, locals jump into the river to cool off — but be warned, the water comes from the mountains and stays pretty cold even on hot days!
Englischer Garten and Eisbach Surf
One of the largest urban parks in the world, the Englischer Garten is beautiful year-round. The Isar River also flows through parts of the park, and you can watch surfers ride the waves at the famous Eisbachwelle, even in winter. My favorite way to enter the park is through the “Universität” metro station or by visiting the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm), where there’s a traditional beer garden serving Bavarian food.
Viktualienmarkt
A must-visit for food lovers, Viktualienmarkt is an open-air market located right in the center of Munich. You’ll find everything from fresh produce and local delicacies to artisan cheeses and gourmet treats. It’s a great place to grab a snack, shop for local foods, or relax at the beer garden.
Olympiapark
Originally built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, Olympiapark is known for its striking modern architecture. Visit the Olympic Stadium, stroll around the beautiful grounds, and head up the Olympic Tower for one of the best panoramic views of Munich.
- Important Note:
Hidden gem: one of my favorite spots in Munich is Olympiaberg. It’s a little mountain located in the middle of Olympiapark. If you walk to the top you can see the whole city from above. If the weather is good you can even see the mountains in the background and watch the sunset. For those who don’t mind spending a little more, you can also buy a ticket to go up the Olympia Tower also located in the same park to have a better view of the city from above.
And who gets overwhelmed once choosing restaurants during their travels? I wish every city had a local Google Maps restaurant list I could get recommendations from! Use this map to discover my favorite restaurants in Munich after 10 years of living there. You will find options from cozy traditional Bavarian restaurants to different international cuisine options, offering something for every taste.
Day Trips from Munich – Must-See Spots in Bavaria
Bavaria is full of amazing places to explore, and it would be impossible to cover everything in one post. However, here are some unmissable spots — especially if it’s your first time visiting the region:
Neuschwanstein Castle
The real-life inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, Neuschwanstein is a must-see in Bavaria. To make your visit easier, book a guided tour that includes transportation and a local expert who will share fascinating stories about King Ludwig II. Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to book in advance through GetYourGuide or directly on the castle’s official site.
If you prefer to visit on your own, you can take a train from Munich and admire the castle’s exterior without needing a ticket. The best view is from Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) — sometimes it’s closed, but it’s definitely worth trying!
Important: if you plan to visit inside the castle, keep in mind that dogs are not allowed.
Zugspitze
Germany’s highest peak at 2,962 meters (9,718 feet), Zugspitze offers stunning views year-round. Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or just admiring the scenery, it’s a fantastic day trip from Munich.
Tip: the cable car ticket can be pricey, so check the weather forecast and the live webcams before buying to make sure visibility is good. You can book a tour through GetYourGuide (note: cable car ticket not included) or travel independently by car or train.
Chiemsee Castle and Lake Tour
Known as the “Bavarian Sea,” Chiemsee is home to the beautiful Herrenchiemsee Palace, built by King Ludwig II as a tribute to Versailles. Although the palace was never fully completed, both the island and the boat ride to get there are absolutely worth it. You can drive or take the train on your own, or book a tour for a more convenient experience.
Where to Stay Near Zugspitze
If you want to extend your trip and enjoy more of the Bavarian Alps, the best area to stay is Garmisch-Partenkirchen. From there, you can easily visit Zugspitze, Eibsee Lake, and the charming town itself. Here are some hotel recommendations for your stay in Garmisch.
For the Adventure Seekers – Nature & Hiking in Bavaria
Bavaria is a true paradise for outdoor lovers, with dramatic mountain peaks, serene lakes, and lush forests. If you’re looking to connect with nature, here are some of the best spots to explore:
Starnberger See
Located just 25 kilometers south of Munich, Starnberger See is perfect for a quick escape from the city. Whether you prefer hiking, cycling through the forests, or enjoying a peaceful boat ride, this scenic lake has a lot to offer.
Tip: boat rentals are only available during summer, and they tend to sell out quickly — arrive early if you plan to rent one! You can reach Starnberger See easily by car or by S-Bahn train.
Walchensee and Herzogstand
For outdoor enthusiasts, Walchensee is a must. This crystal-clear lake is ideal for swimming and kayaking in summer. From there, take the cable car up to Herzogstand for a short hike to one of the best panoramic viewpoints over the lake and the Alps. It’s a perfect day trip for those who want both water and mountain adventures in one place.
Eibsee
Nestled at the base of Zugspitze, Eibsee is one of the most stunning mountain lakes in Bavaria. You can enjoy an easy hike around the lake, rent a boat, or simply relax by the shore while soaking up breathtaking views of Germany’s highest peak. It’s an ideal spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Höllentalklamm Gorge
For a more thrilling experience, head to Höllentalklamm — one of the most impressive gorges in Bavaria. Walk through narrow pathways carved into the rock, alongside cascading waterfalls, for an unforgettable adventure.
Important: Höllentalklamm is closed during winter (generally open from May to October), and there’s a small entrance fee payable in cash. There’s a restaurant at the end of the trail, but I recommend bringing water and a snack for the hike.
Extra Tip:
Download the Komoot app to discover even more incredible hiking trails across Bavaria!
Bonus Tip: 6 Free Places in Munich to Take Stunning Photos
Looking for the best photo spots in Munich? The best part is: they’re all free to visit!
Here are six amazing locations to capture incredible memories:
Nymphenburg Palace & Gardens – Beautiful all year round, with grand architecture and serene gardens.
Justizpalast (Justitzplatz) – A hidden gem with stunning architecture right near Karlsplatz.
Juristische Bibliothek – One of the most beautiful libraries in Germany, located inside the New Town Hall.
Endless Staircase – A unique piece of modern art that looks amazing in photos.
Airborne – A cool street art spot perfect for creative shots.
Rathaus (New Town Hall) – The heart of Munich’s Old Town, iconic for its neo-Gothic facade and famous Glockenspiel.
Conclusion: Why Bavaria Should Be on Your Travel List
Bavaria is a place where culture and nature blend perfectly.
Whether you want to feel like you’re stepping into a fairytale at Neuschwanstein Castle, hike around breathtaking lakes like Eibsee and Walchensee, or dive into Munich’s rich history and vibrant life, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
With a bit of planning, the right packing list, and a few guided tours, you’re all set for an unforgettable trip through one of Germany’s most beautiful regions.
