5 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING BAVARIA

I had a few ideas of what to expect when I first visited Bavaria in November 2024, but I hadn’t really done much research—I knew I’d have the chance to come back. And come back I did, several times, before settling part-time between France and Germany and truly discovering this region, which now holds a special place in my heart. Yet there are a few things I wish I had known when I first arrived in Munich—and Bavaria in general. Little insights that could be really useful if you’re planning to explore this beautiful region.

So here’s 5+ tips to make the best of your stay in Bavaria.

BAVARIA ISN’T JUST MUNICH, NUREMBERG & NEUSCHWANSTEIN

Bavaria is a region so vast and diverse—both in landscape and culture—that it’s hard to claim you’ve truly seen it by only visiting the famous trinity of Munich, Nuremberg, and Neuschwanstein.

If you want to discover another side of Bavaria, why not head north to Wurzburg, Bayreuth, and Bamberg to sample Franconian wines and admire stunning Baroque architecture ? Or explore the east with Passau and Regensburg, one of Germany’s most picturesque cities. You could follow the Lech River from Augsburg to Landsberg—cycling makes it even more magical—or spend a weekend by Constanz or Ammersee lakes. The possibilities for discovering another side of Bavaria are almost endless. Of course, if it’s your first visit, seeing the highlights is a must. But don’t forget : Bavaria has countless facets, from rolling vineyards to towering mountains, all waiting to be explored.

FEIERTAG & SUNDAYS ARE GERMANY SACRED’S PAUSE

One thing that truly surprised me in Bavaria—and more broadly in Germany—is the almost sacred respect for public holidays (Feiertag) and Sundays (Sonntag). On Sundays, everything stops, or almost everything: shops close, supermarkets remain shut, and only cafés and restaurants continue to operate. So there’s no point in planning a shopping trip or last-minute errands—it’s also a good idea to check that your stay doesn’t coincide with a public holiday (national or regional), as everything will be completely shut down.

And that’s precisely what makes this collective break so special. The clear divide between workdays and days of rest invites a different rhythm of travel : strolling through parks, escaping on hiking trails, taking advantage of public transportation – that is still running -, and simply reconnect with nature—especially when the sun is shining.

You might complain at first, as I did — but in the end, you’ll come to love it.

STAYING LONGER IN BAVARIA ? GET AN ANNUAL OR A 14-DAY TICKET

If you plan to spend a week or more in Bavaria and explore its architectural heritage in depth, few options are as advantageous—and as little known—as the annual or 14-day passes dedicated to Bavarian architecture.

These tickets give you unlimited access to the region’s greatest architectural gems, including the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle, the sumptuous Würzburg Residenz, and Nymphenburg Palace in Munich. But these passes are also great for discovering more off-the-beaten-track places : the Residenz in Kempten with its remarkably well-preserved interiors, the spectacular Walhalla perched above the Danube near Regensburg, and the exceptional Margravial Opera House in Bayreuth—arguably Germany’s most beautiful opera house.

An annual pass costs 55€ and is activated on your first visit, while a 14-day pass costs 40€. Pick it up directly at one of the locations . It’s a valuable and inexpensive way to explore Bavaria off the beaten track on the long term.

BEER GARDENS ARE BAVARIA’S BELOVED TRADITION

I’ve never seen a country so devoted to beer—or one that turns it into such a communal ritual. Beer gardens in Bavaria are nothing like the dark, crowded bars you might imagine; they’re convivial, family-friendly spaces where friends, couples, and relatives gather to enjoy each other’s company. On sunny days, people arrive early in the morning or linger into the evening, sharing a beer, a coffee, or a freshly baked pretzel by the river, at the edge of a park, or in a leafy courtyard. It’s a tradition that epitomizes Bavarian culture, now found across Germany and even beyond. One little tip: if your budget is tight, you can bring your own snacks to enjoy on site—just be sure to order drinks from the Beer garden itself.

If you’re in Munich, I’ve put together a little guide to my favorite foodie experiences in the city—including some of the best beer gardens. Definitely worth a look!

MAKE USE OF THE DEUTSCHLAND TICKET TO EXPLORE ANOTHER COUNTRY

You might assume that the Deutschland Ticket—the now indispensable pass that lets you travel unlimited on regional trains and public transport across Germany—is only valid within Germany. But in fact, it opens the door to nearby border towns too. One of the most interesting options from Bavaria is Salzburg, Austria : a picturesque city framed by mountains, the birthplace of musical prodigy Mozart, and perfect for a day trip. I’ve already written a complete guide to exploring Salzburg in winter (which is just as enjoyable when the weather warms up), making it an ideal way to experience two countries in just a few hours.

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If you’re planning to stay in Germany for a long time — or maybe you’re already living here — I’d love to hear your advice on things I haven’t yet covered about this beautiful country. I still feel there’s so much to discover about Germany and its rich regional traditions.