Best 10 day Bavaria Itinerary + 5 to 7 day trip ideas

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As the largest state in the country, the Bavaria region boasts picturesque towns, vibey beer gardens, and scenic road trip routes across southern Germany. There’s so much to do and see here that you may not know where to begin your Bavaria itinerary. But don’t sweat it – our 10 day Bavaria itinerary is here to save the day!

You’ll travel across some of the best places to visit in Germany, from charming medieval towns like Nuremberg to the magical castle lands of the Bavarian Alps. 

Now buckle up, and get ready to experience central Europe like never before.

Ultimate 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: 10 days in Southern Germany

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10-day Bavaria itinerary: at a glance

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick rundown of how we conquered Bavaria, Germany, in just ten days. 

This road trip itinerary is packed with epic experiences, from unmissable tourist attractions such as the Marienplatz to hidden gems like Obersee Lake tucked into the mountains.

• Day 1 in Bavaria itinerary: Explore Munich’s Old Town. The Altstadt is where you’ll find the most popular tourist attractions in Bavaria’s capital.
• Day 2 in Bavaria itinerary: Take a deeper dive into Munich’s cultural heritage, from royal palaces to art galleries. Visit the art district for a close-up look at Munich’s stunning collection of modern art, artifacts, and paintings.
• Day 3 in Bavaria itinerary: Wrap up your three days in Munich by hanging out with all the other tourists at English Garden for a fun-filled day laying out on lawns along a riverbank.
• Day 4 in Bavaria itinerary: Learn about the life of mad King Ludwig at Neuschwanstein Castle while taking in gorgeous alpine views of the Bavarian countryside.
• Day 5 in Bavaria itinerary: Head over to Eagle’s Nest to learn about the lives of Adolf Hitler and his party members. The Berghof has some of the most stunning views of the alps.
• Day 6 in Bavaria itinerary: Visit Dachau Concentration Camp for an in-depth look into the atrocities of the Third Reich and pay homage to those who were imprisoned and ultimately lost their lives here.
• Day 7 in Bavaria itinerary: Stroll through one of the oldest cities in Germany, Bavaria. Augsburg was home to one of the wealthiest families in southern Germany, the Fuggers – who developed the Fuggerei.
• Day 8 in Bavaria itinerary: Explore the postcard-worthy medieval scenery in Nuremberg’s Old Town and its bustling main market square.
• Day 9 in Bavaria itinerary: Admire the gorgeous museums and numerous gothic-style churches dotted across Nuremberg.
• Day 10 in Bavaria itinerary: Get a glimpse of Germany’s Romantic Road in the picturesque town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Kickstart your Bavaria Itinerary with Three Days in Munich | Where to stay in Munich

Munich is an excellent place to start your Bavaria itinerary, as it’s the region’s capital and the largest city. This city is most commonly known for hosting the most popular beer festival in the world – the annual Oktoberfest. 

Munich Airport is the second busiest in Germany in terms of passenger traffic after Frankfurt. It is located about 43 km (or 26.7 miles) away from Marienplatz train station or the city centre. 

You can take the train to get there (and it takes 45 minutes and costs about 11.90 euros). 

Or pick up a car rental from the airport, which will take about 30+ minutes to get to Marienplatz. 

You can also book an airport transfer by bus here

Here is our hotel recommendation for 3 days in Munich, 

• Hotel Europa – Clean, contemporary, and easy on the pocket – that’s Hotel Europa. This highly-rated hotel offers everything you’ll need for your Bavaria itinerary, from a soundproof room to a delicious buffet breakfast. Book your stay here. 

• Hotel München City Center affiliated by Meliá: A centrally located mid-budget hotel is the TRYP City center/Munchen city center. The rooms are simple, and you will find a lot of restaurants and small shops nearby. Check availability here

• Hotel MIO by AMANO – Brimming with modern decor, this star-rated hotel is the perfect choice for a central location. You’ll be served an à la carte or vegetarian breakfast daily and enjoy luxury hotel amenities, like an onsite bar and free Wi-Fi. Book your stay here.  

Day 1 of the Bavaria Itinerary – Munich’s Old Town (The Altstadt)

There’s no better place to get the feel of Bavaria than in Old Town. 

Affectionately known as the Altstadt München, this gorgeous medieval town is smack dab in the heart of Munich and boasts incredible scenery. 

The Altstadt is an excellent place to admire Munich’s bustling squares, old churches, and town halls.

Walking tour around Old Town

Take a guided tour walking around the picturesque Old Town. Popular attractions like the New and Old Town Hall, Marienplatz (or Mary’s Square), and St. Peter’s Church are must-visits.

Marienplatz is Munich’s cultural hub; there’s plenty to do, so you should expect lots of tourists. 

Stop by the Hofbräuhaus beer hall for a cold beer and a warm plate of hearty German cuisine.

Hang out at the Viktualienmarkt

The Viktualienmarkt is a popular daily market with over 100 vendors selling the freshest local produce, gourmet food, bread, spices, wines, and of course, beer! 

While this market mainly attracts foodies and beer lovers, you can find other points of interest, like magical figurine fountains and the Heilig Geist Church.

And if you’re up for an adventure, how about going on a  Bavarian beer and food tour for an in-depth dive into the gastronomy of southern Germany?

Note: Viktualienmarkt stalls are open Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, but some vendors may be closed on Mondays.

Attend a concert at Munich Residenz

Wrap up the first day of your Bavaria itinerary with a classical Munich Residenz concert. We suggest you arrive early, so you have enough time to admire the marvelous interior. 

The complex has about 150 rooms, and each one is layered with impressive frescoes and regal decor. 

During the concert, you’ll enjoy wine-ing and dining while entranced by a breathtaking show at the same place where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once played. 

Honestly – we can’t think of a better way to end the day, can you?

Day 2 of the Bavaria Itinerary – Munich’s heritage, art, and culture

On your second day in Munich, it’s time to explore some of the historical nuggets in this city. 

Whenever you visit Bavaria, checking out the local art scene is imperative. Munich holds some of the country’s most extensive collections and attracts many creative minds annually.

Visit Nymphenburg Palace

Surrounded by nearly 445 acres of lush landscape, Nymphenburg Palace is one of the top royal properties in Europe. 

The complex has a fascinating history of being the summer residence for the birth of Max Emanuel, the long-awaited heir to the Bavaria throne. 

Regular guide-led tours may be hard to come by here, but you can explore this royal residence with an audio tour available in various international languages. 

Inside Nymphenburg Palace, you’ll be greeted by ornate wall designs and impressive frescoes dotted throughout the royal apartments and galleries. 

And don’t get us started with the garden; its parterres are lined with colorful flowers and fountains.

Admire art in the Kunstareal District

And after taking in the majesty of Nymphenburg Palace, head over to Kunstareal for a deeper dive into one of Europe’s most important centers of culture and art. 

Located in the heart of Munich, the Kunstareal District is home to 18 renowned museums and art venues exhibiting stunning paintings and artifacts. 

The quarter also boasts six universities, about 40 modern art galleries, and several cultural institutions, all within walking distance – wow!

Some notable sights worth checking out include the Museum Brandhorst, the Old and New Pinakothek, and the Museum of Egyptian art.

Explore Munich’s historical churches

Bavaria, Germany, is home to several magnificent churches. Munich alone has about 25 churches, each more elaborate and regal than the last. 

The Cathedral Church Of Our Lady, also known as Frauenkirche, is a popular tourist stop. It’s one of the largest hall churches in Germany, featuring inner chapels, octagonal pillars, and two giant clock tower structures that you can see from afar.

Just minutes away from the Frauenkirche, you’ll stumble upon the Gothic-styled St. Peter’s Church with its Baroque-influenced interiors and iconic clock tower, piercing the azure skies. 

Other notable churches to check out when you visit Munich include the white-washed St. Michael’s Church, St. Boniface’s Abbey, and the stunning Trinity Church.

Note: During peak season, these baroque buildings are often packed with tourists, so arrive early to get the best pics without too much foot traffic.

Day 3 of Bavaria Itinerary – Munich’s fun attractions

You want to go all out for your last day in Munich, right? So spend your final day in Munich wandering through the city’s most thrilling attractions. 

If walking around isn’t your thing, you may enjoy sightseeing on the double-decker hop-on hop-off tour buses.

Laze around at the English Garden

The English Garden is the beating heart of Munich’s city center. 

Just imagine this, a 1.45 square mile public park dotted with lush riverbanks, pathways, stunning Asian gardens and towers, and charming cafes – what more could you ask for? 

This natural oasis is a great place to hang out in Munich. It has something for everyone, from nature lovers to surfing enthusiasts, sunloungers, joggers, and many more.

Wander around Olympiapark

Olympiapark is another fantastic green space you can visit. Constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics, this complex still hosts sporting, cultural, and religious events. 

While there may not be much going on when you visit, this is an excellent place for walking around, connecting with nature, and taking tons of photos.

Catch a Bayern Munich game at Allianz Arena

This is not for everyone, but we can already hear the football fans cheering in the background. 

Bayern Munich is one of the best football teams in the world, and when you’re in their hometown, seeing a game is a no-brainer.

Football is part of Bavaria’s cultural flair, and the Allianz Arena is where it all comes to a boil. 

Every other Tuesday, Wednesday, or Saturday, thousands of local fans come here to support their team by chanting, dancing, and savoring every goal.

Two days in the Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps are a special place in Germany. These towering snow-capped peaks attract thousands of skiers and snowsport lovers from across the globe. 

But that’s not all this alpine wonderland has to offer – it’s also home to beautiful fairytale castles.

Where to stay in the Bavarian Alps

Hotel Sonne – This 4-stay hotel is where you’d want to wake up every morning in the Bavarian Alps. 

Boasting perfectly blended earth tones and pops of green and salmon, this hotel offers quirky rooms and an extensive buffet breakfast. Book your stay here.

Day 4 of the Bavaria Itinerary – Visiting the Alps’ fairytale castles

You can find a heap of magical castles dotted all over Germany and central Europe, but none can compare to the grandeur of these royal palaces. 

Explore Neuschwanstein Castle

Perhaps the most stunning, ornate, and dramatically-located castle in Bavaria, the Neuschwanstein Castle, resembles something straight out of a storybook. 

In fact, this historical palace is known as the inspiration behind the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. 

Although many visitors opt for a short day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich, we urge you to spend the whole day exploring this fortress and its neighbors nearby. 

Top Tip: A guided tour through this royal residence will give you a sneak peek into the refuge of King Ludwig II.

Stop by Hohenschwangau Castle

After seeing where mad King Ludwig spent a lot of his years, head over to Hohenschwangau Castle to marvel at the king’s childhood residence. 

While this castle is often overshadowed by its more famous and glamorous neighbor, Hohenschwangau Castle is definitely worth a visit. 

You’ll be dazzled by the ornate ballrooms and salons as they depict a medieval tale of Lohengrin, the Knight of the Swan. 

Visit Linderhof Palace

The white-faced Linderhof Palace is the smallest of the three palaces built by King Ludwig II. It is the only one he lived to see complete. 

While the lavish Rococo interior will leave you stunned, the outside is where the magic is. 

The gardens surrounding Linderhof Palace are considered the most beautiful in the history of garden design. 

You’ll find a harmonious blend of Baroque and Renaissance landscape elements, beautiful fountains, and symmetrical lawns.

Top Tip: If you’re short on time, we recommend bundling the Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace into one guided tour.

Day 5 of the Bavaria Itinerary –  Wander the lanes of the Alps’ charming towns

Nothing spells out a mountain getaway like spending the day in a quaint alpine village with nothing but snow-capped peaks and glistening lakes on the horizon.

Explore Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden is one of the most picturesque villages in Bavaria. This mountain retreat boasts a whirlwind of adventures to keep you busy. 

Start the day walking around Old Town, where you’ll stumble upon charming cafes and shops to grab a bite and souvenirs.

The Berchtesgaden also has plenty of hiking trails that lead to overlooks with jaw-dropping alpine views. 

But if you’re not up for a hike, catch an electric passenger ferry on Kings Lake, and see Berchtesgaden from the water.

Tour Eagle’s Nest (The Berghof)

If you’re a history buff who finds World War II stories fascinating, take some time to tour Eagle’s Nest.

Perched atop the Kehlstein summit, Eagle’s Nest is a Nazi fortress that overlooks Obersalzberg and Berchtesgaden in southern Bavaria.

Eagle’s Nest was exclusively for Nazi members; they used it for social gatherings and party meetings. 

Also known as Berghof, the fortification comprises an intricate channel of bunkers, galleries, and tunnels.

Take a short day trip to Salzburg

You seriously missed out if you’ve visited Bavaria before, and it didn’t cross your mind to visit Mozart’s birthplace. But lucky for you, we’ve thought of everything in this Bavaria itinerary. 

Salzburg is a stone’s throw away from southern Bavaria, making it the perfect day trip. You’ll find plenty of things to do and see in this Austrian city. 

So make sure to add these to your Salzburg itinerary. Admire the incredible alpine scenery, hop between souvenir shops, grab a bite at a quaint cafe, and visit the UNESCO-listed Salzburg historic center.

From Salzburg, you can return back to Munich to sleep overnight. 

Read: 10 days in Prague Vienna Salzburg Budapest itinerary

Day 6 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: Spending one day in Dachau

Dachau is a charming town with all the bells and whistles that make a Bavarian city. However, it has an eerie twist that may leave some visitors feeling a little saddened.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Visit

Your in-depth lesson on World War II continues with a half-hour day trip from Munich to the laid-back town of Dachau. 

Here you’ll find Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, where thousands were imprisoned during the Holocaust.

Today the camp welcomes nearly a million annual visitors and treats them to unforgettable memorial site tours. The feeling is surreal as you walk through the reconstructed barracks and cells. 

You’ll also tour the exhibition center, where you’ll learn how this prison quickly became an infamous death camp.

Explore Dachau

After spending a half day at the camp, head into the town center to explore more of what’s in store. Dachau may be known for doom and gloom, but this town also has beautiful historic buildings, galleries, and museums. 

Some notable points of interest in this town include Dachau Palace, Gemäldegalerie Dachau, and Bezirksmuseum.

You can return back to Munich, or stay overnight in Dachau.

Where to stay in Dachau

FreshSuites & Bar – This Dachau hotel is all about keeping it clean and minimalistic. The star-rated hotel treats you to a modern onsite restaurant, bar, and fully-equipped fitness center. Book your stay here.

Day 7 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: Spend one day in Augsburg

Augsburg is one of Germany’s oldest cities. It’s also one of Bavaria’s most picturesque towns, thanks to its Renaissance-style architecture and dazzling Christmas Markets.

Walk around the Fuggerei

The Fuggerei is the world’s oldest social housing complex. Constructed between 1514 and 1523 under the watchful eye of architect Thomas Krebs, the Fuggerei project was the brainchild of Jakob Fugger. 

This wealthy nobleman wished to create a haven where impoverished Catholic workers could live debt-free. 

After nearly 500 years, the scenery is still outstanding. Stroll through the Fuggerei maze of identical houses with a mustard facade, red roof, and green framing. 

And try not to get lost as most homes are buried under green and brown shrubbery. 

Marvel at the Augsburg Cathedral’s windows

Windows, why, right? We thought the same thing. The Augsburg Cathedral is home to the world’s oldest antique stained glass windows. 

This unusual treasure forms an integral part of the history of humankind, depicting images of notable Bible characters like the five prophets David, Daniel, Moses, Jonah, and Hosea. 

Although the exact origin of the stained glass remains a mystery, these panels attract thousands of tourists each year.

Explore Augsburg

Some tourists often skip Augsburg in their Germany itinerary, but we suggest spending at least one of your days in Bavaria here. 

You’ll find tons of appealing sites in Augsburg, like the 1,000-year-old Perlachturm belltower, the Augsburger Puppenkiste, plenty of churches, art galleries, and public fountains. 

And if you’re an animal lover, Augsburg Zoo is a great place to catch some wildlife, such as big cats and meerkats.

Where to stay in Augsburg

Haunstetter Hof – Find reprieve at the Haunstetter Hof hotel and restaurant. The setting resembles something from a vineyard. This property offers a serene garden and popular hiking trails nearby. Book your stay here.

Day 8 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary – Explore Nuremberg’s historical landmarks

A Bavaria road trip itinerary could not be complete without spending more than a day in one of the most beautiful cities in Germany. 

Nuremberg is the second largest city in Bavaria, known for its historical landmarks, the imperial castle, and hosting the infamous Nuremberg trials.

Where to stay in Nuremberg

Park Plaza Nuremberg – Centrally located in the heart of Nuremberg, this Albrecht Dürer-inspired hotel has everything you’ll need along your Bavaria itinerary. 

You’ll get access to a signature restaurant and bar, gym, and public transportation hubs. Book your stay here.

Nuremberg’s postcard scenery brings in many tourists from across the world. The town’s colorful half-timbered buildings, such as Albrecht Dürer’s House, medieval churches, and vibey Christmas market, are some of Nuremberg’s main draws. 

Take a Nuremberg Old Town walking tour

Before you get carried away with the deep history of this town, start your day by walking through the cobblestone streets and exploring the city’s gorgeous landmarks. 

A guided tour through Old Town takes you through the main market square, which boasts a lively arts scene and gorgeous medieval architecture. 

Then you’ll stop by the Old Town Hall to explore its several doorways, dungeons, and torture chamber. 

Top Tip: You can experience all the highlights in Nuremberg via a thrilling sightseeing train tour. 

Visit the Nuremberg Castle complex

Nuremberg Castle is a dominating figure in Old Town’s northwestern skyline. This 1,151-foot-tall building is a vital structure of the most formidable medieval fortress in Europe. 

It was a symbol of the Holy Roman Empire’s power and significance.

Together with the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, this fortification is known to have housed all legitimate emperors and German kings from 1050 to 1571. 

Set atop a sandstone ridge, the complex is a great place to get sprawling views of the city below.

Stroll through Hauptmarkt

The Hauptmarkt is the main market square in Nuremberg. This vibrant marketplace has been the town’s beating heart since ancient times. 

It’s open Monday to Saturday, so you’ll have plenty of time to stroll through Hauptmarkt’s fruits, vegetables, fresh bread, ready-to-eat meals, and fresh flower stalls.

The Hauptmarkt’s aptly named “Beautiful Fountain” is an excellent place for a photo op, thanks to its ornate golden decor.

Day 9 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary – Visit Nuremberg’s museums and churches

Nuremberg’s city center is packed with intriguing museums and ancient churches. The town’s rich history is well-preserved and brought to life in the halls and exhibitions of these new and old monuments.

Brush up on some history at the Germanic National Museum

This is where you go if you’d like to know everything about German history. This national museum holds the country’s largest collection of German-related arts and culture. 

You’ll feel immersed in Germany’s heritage as you browse through over a million artifacts, religious scrolls, and historical documents. 

The museum also has an impressive collection of paintings, musical instruments, and sculptures for you to admire. 

Marvel at St. Lawrence Church’s architecture

The church of St. Lawrence is a gothic-style building towering over Lorenzer Platz. The church’s blue-crowned twin towers are a spectacle to behold and don’t get us started on the 14th-century stone brick facade.

St. Lawrence Church’s exterior is decorated with elaborate cravings, but the large rose window above the west doorway is the most prominent figure. 

Inside the church, you’ll walk through a grand hall with beautiful murals and frescoes.

Get a glimpse into the life of an artist at Albrecht Dürer’s House

Albrecht Dürer is a renowned German Renaissance artist known for his paintings and print works. The artist lived here from 1509 until he died in 1528. 

Now serving as a museum, the five-story building originally dates back to 1420 and has been dedicated to Dürer’s life and work, particularly his printed maps, since 1871. 

A guided tour takes you through several exhibits of Dürer’s creations, a reconstruction of his studio workshop, and displays of period-appropriate furniture.

Day 10 of the 10 day Bavaria Itinerary: Spend one day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Settled in the northern part of Bavaria, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming town known for its vibrant half-timbered buildings and cobblestone lanes. 

Picture this, Nuremberg – but on steroids! It’s one of the most attractive towns in Germany, and for a good reason.

Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Hotel Goldener Hirsch – Savor Rothenburg’s charming medieval architecture by actually staying in one of the buildings. 

Hotel Goldener Hirsch boasts a lovely exterior, proximity to the Plönlein, and scenic views of the Tauber River valley. Book your stay here.

Tour the Romantic Road route

If there’s one thing you should do on this German trip, it’s to explore the Romantic Road. 

Passing through 459 km or 285 miles of lush forests and mountains, this popular route cuts through several charming towns, and luckily for you, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of them.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the best spot for medieval sightings along the Romantic Road. 

Its collection of dazzling buildings and alleyways make this town a prime example of a walled medieval village – one of the last of its kind.

Snap some pics at Plönlein

Plönlein is arguably the most picturesque part of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Translating to “Little Square”, this quaint intersection boasts a gorgeous skinny half-timbered building that divides two streets.

The street on top leads to the Siebers Tower — a landmark with a small arch that served as the entrance to Rothenburg ob der Tauber several hundred years ago. 

In contrast, the lower street takes you down to the Kobolzeller Tower, which leads you to the breathtaking scenery beyond the valley.

Alternate Bavaria Itinerary: One Week Bavaria Road Trip

It would be nearly impossible to explore all that Bavaria, Germany, has to offer in just a few days. But if 7 to 10 days is what you got then let’s make the most of it. Here is an alternate itinerary option,

One Week Road Trip to Bavaria, Germany 

Day 1: Munich – Start your trip in Munich, the capital of Bavaria. Munich is known for its lively Oktoberfest celebration, delicious beer gardens, and beautiful Gothic architecture. 

Don’t forget to visit world-renowned museums like the BMW Museum and the Deutsches Museum during your time in Munich!

Book: A walking tour of Old Town and its attractions

Day 2: Neuschwanstein Castle – From Munich, head south to Schwangau to see the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. This castle was built by King Ludwig II and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Germany. 

Stay in Fussen overnight. 

Day 3: Tegernsee Lake – After exploring Neuschwanstein Castle, drive to Tegernsee Lake where you can enjoy stunning mountain views and go on a short hike. 

Day 4: Berchtesgaden National Park – Continue your road trip by heading southeast to Berchtesgaden National Park. 

The park is known for its breathtaking scenery as well as its many hiking and biking trails. You can also take a cable car up to the park’s highest peak, Mount Watzmann! 

Day 5: Zugspitze Mountain – From Berchtesgaden National Park, head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen where you can take a cable car up to Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze. This mountain offers stunning views of both Germany and Austria and is perfect for a day of hiking or skiing. 

Day 6: Nuremberg – From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, drive to Nuremberg. Be sure to visit sites like the Nuremberg Castle and the Nazi Party Rally Grounds during your time in Nuremberg! 

Day 7: Bamberg – Finally, end your road trip in Bamberg which is located just northwest of Nuremberg. Bamberg is known for its beautiful Old Town which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

You can also visit Bamberg Cathedral and experience the city’s well-preserved medieval town aesthetics. 

Alternate Itinerary: 5 days in Bavaria Itinerary by Public Transportation and/or day tours

If you are not renting a car, you can spend 5 days in Munich and then venture outside to explore more of Bavaria. You can use both day tours or trains to get to various destinations. 

Day 1 in Munich: Start your trip with a visit to Munich’s cultural delights. Visit one of its most famous landmarks, the Frauenkirche. This cathedral is known for its twin spires and is located in the heart of the city. 

Once you’ve taken in the beauty of the Frauenkirche, explore some of the other sights nearby, such as Marienplatz and Peterskirche. 

In the evening, head to Hofbräuhaus, a world-famous beer hall, for a traditional Bavarian meal and some local beer.

Day 2 in Munich: Make your way to Olympiapark, built for the 1972 Summer Olympics. Take a walk through the park or ride the Olympic Tower for stunning views of the city below. 

In the afternoon, visit one of Munich’s many museums and then end your day with a stroll through Englischer Garten, one of the largest public parks in Europe.

Day 3 Munich to Fussen: On day 3, spend some time outside of Munich and venture into the Bavarian countryside. 

Take a day tour to Neuschwanstein Castle, located about 2 hours away from Munich. This 19th-century castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany. 

After touring the castle, enjoy some time in Linderhof Palace Gardens before heading back to Munich.

Day 4 Munich to Nuremberg: Start the day by exploring the historic old town of Nuremberg. 

Stroll down cobbled streets and admire the beautifully preserved buildings – many of which date back hundreds of years. 

Make sure to visit sites like the Nuremberg Castle, and the Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg’s central market square. This is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and people-watch. 

In the afternoon, take a walk along the Pegnitz River or visit one of Nuremberg’s many parks. 

Day 5 Munich to Dachau: Go on a half day tour to Dachau and then enjoy a food tour in Munich. 

Or walk through Viktualienmarkt, an open-air market that has been around since 1807. Browse through stalls selling fresh produce, meat, cheese, and more before stopping for lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the area. 

Alternate Option: Garmisch Partenkirchen (town)

If you wish to go hiking, choose Partnach Gorge for a 1.50-hour round-trip hike. You can get to Garmisch Partenkirchen by bus. It is a beautiful Bavarian town, and then walk 25 minutes+ to the trailhead to start the hike. 

Sightseeing Bavaria Map for One week to 10 days in Bavaria Itinerary

Travel Tips for Bavaria: Southern Germany Road Trip Itinerary

When planning a trip to Bavaria, there are a few things you’ll need to know before you go. 

From figuring out when to go and what to pack, to tourist visas, and finding the best activities for your interests, we’ve got you covered. 

Where is Bavaria located?

Bavaria is located in the southeast of Germany and is known for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and ancestral castles.

Tourist Visas for Germany

Germany is a European Union member, and it follows the Schengen agreement to allow non-visa-exempt passport holders to enter the country. 

If you need a Schengen visa, be sure to apply for it prior to your trip. 

Visitors with US and Canadian passports do not require a visa to enter the country and stay for 90 days; however, from 2025, an online authorization – ETIAS – is required prior to travel. 

Arriving in Bavaria Germany

Munich International Airport -Franz Josef Strauß is the best point of entry to kick start this road trip or itinerary for Bavaria. We found decent flights to get there from Canada. 

This airport serves Munich as well as Upper Bavaria. 

Your next best option to arrive in Germany is Frankfurt Airport. 

You can get to Munich from Salzburg Austria by train or road as well. 

Getting around Bavaria

The form of transportation you choose to travel across the region may make or break your Bavaria itinerary. But luckily for you, Germany has a sophisticated network of roads and rails at your disposal. 

The three main ways to travel through Bavaria are by going on a road trip, by taking trains, or by tour buses.

Travel via rental car

If you are planning a Bavaria road trip, hiring a rental car is your best bet. This allows you to curate and alter your itinerary on the go as you see fit. 

It also gives you the liberty to stop along scenic routes and admire the wonders of Bavaria.

Note: Always adhere to the German rules of the road, including the speed limits and road signs.

Travel via public transportation

Your Bavaria itinerary may be totally reliant on public transportation (no judgment – we did it with our Iceland itinerary). 

If that’s the case, you’ll be using trains and buses to get around. And that’s easy to do; just get the Deutsche Bahn Bayern Pass. 

You’ll get unlimited day trips around Bavaria for the day, from as little as $27.

Travel via tours

Booking guided tours from one Bavarian town to another is also an excellent alternative transportation method. 

You can take day trips from the city you’re based in, for example, Munich, to places like the Alps and Nuremberg for a half-day or full-day tour.

When to Visit Bavaria 

Bavaria is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to choose the right time of year to visit. 

The weather in Bavaria can be quite cold in the winter, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. 

If you’re not a fan of the cold, spring or fall might be a better time for you. Summers in Bavaria is beautiful but can be quite crowded due to the influx of tourists. 

In our opinion, the best time to go is between late spring and early fall when the weather is ideal. 

During this time, you’ll be able to take advantage of all that the region has to offer including hiking, biking, and exploring. 

And if you’re lucky enough to be there during Oktoberfest, don’t forget to swing by one of the many beer tents for a stein or two! 

Activities in Bavaria 

There are endless possibilities for activities in Bavaria depending on your interests. 

If you love hiking and being outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails with stunning views. 

For those interested in history and culture, there are museums, castles, and historic sites throughout Bavaria. 

And let’s not forget about the food! There are countless restaurants and cafes serving traditional German cuisine as well as more modern dishes. 

In Bavaria, you’ll find traditional dishes such as Weißwurst (veal sausage), Leberkäse (a type of meatloaf), and Hendl (roast chicken). 

Packing for Your Trip 

When packing for your trip to Bavaria, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First off, if you’re visiting during the winter months, you’ll need to pack warm clothes as it can get quite cold.

Additionally, comfortable walking shoes are a must as there will likely be a lot of walking involved during your trip (trust me, your feet will thank you later). 

Finally, don’t forget to pack your camera so you can capture all the amazing sights (and delicious food) that Bavaria has to offer!

Other items to add to your road trip:

• Universal Adaptor: To charge all of your electronics. Check price here
• GPS: Ask for a GPS from the car rental. Or at least save the map listed in this post to navigate in Germany
• Rain jacket: The weather in Bavaria can be unpredictable (especially in spring and fall), so it’s always good to have a rain jacket on hand just in case. 
• Sunscreen & sunglasses: Don’t forget the sunscreen! Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through the clouds and cause sunburns. 

Additional travel tips for your Bavaria 10 day itinerary

Is Bavaria worth visiting?

Do you love fairytales, cultural gems, and stunning scenery? If so, then you will love Bavaria! This southern German state is full of incredible places to explore. 

Bavaria is the largest and oldest state in Germany, with a long and storied history dating back to the days of the Holy Roman Empire. 

In more recent times, Bavaria has been home to some of Germany’s most famous exports, including lederhosen, Oktoberfest, and of course, BMW. 

With its towering castles, idyllic countryside, and charming towns and villages, it’s no wonder that Bavaria is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Europe. 

Here are just a few reasons why Bavaria is worth visiting: 

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

A large number of sites in Bavaria are UNESCO-protected, including the Historic Centre of Bamberg, Pilgrimage Church of Wies, and the Würzburg Residence – making these attractions absolutely bucket list worthy. 

The Fairytale Road

Bavaria is/was the backdrop for many movies – thanks to its charming scenery. 

You can soak in the beauty of Bavaria by driving along the Romantic Road, which takes you through small towns and picturesque villages that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. 

The King’s castles 

No trip to Bavaria would be complete without exploring at least one of the many castles that dot the landscape. These grand palaces were once home to Bavarian kings and dukes, and they range from fairytale-like fortresses to imposing neo-Gothic masterpieces. 

Some of the most popular castles to visit include Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Hohenschwangau Castle. 

The Christmas markets 

If you love all things Christmas, then you’ll be in heaven in Bavaria! 

The Christmas markets here are some of the best in Europe, with festive stalls selling traditional holiday decorations, gingerbread cookies, mulled wine, and other seasonal delights. 

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or outdoor adventure, you will love exploring Bavaria. 

Wrapping up an epic 10-day Bavaria itinerary

There you have it – the ultimate Bavaria itinerary to conquer southern Germany in just ten days. 

Bavaria is a year-round destination, so whether you visit in winter or in the summer months, there’s always something fun awaiting you. Prost!

Pin: 10 day Bavaria Germany Itinerary: Road Trips, tours, and beyond

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