Six Unforgettable Sights in Bavaria, Germany

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Six Unforgettable Sights in Bavaria, Germany

Even if you’ve never heard of Bavaria, chances are you’ve seen the photos: whimsical, fairy-tale castles nestled in the Alps, rolling green hills and idyllic countryside scenes, and small towns and cities marked by red roofs and spires.  While Bavaria certainly has plenty of the fantastical, the region is also home to sites remembering Germany’s darkest hour.  The devoutly Christian and patriotic region proved to be fertile recruiting ground for Hitler and the Nazi party during the 1930s, and the contrast between photogenic Alpine foothills and World War II history means this region has something for everyone.

Bavaria is best explored by car, so I suggest travelers rent a vehicle and enjoy the gorgeous, scenic thoroughfares that run throughout southern Germany.  All six of the sights I recommend below are within ninety minutes of each other, making each accessible and easily utilized as a day trip or a stop on an unforgettable central European road trip.

1. Catch the daily glockenspiel show at Marienplatz, Munich’s main square.

Marienplatz, Munich, Germany

Munich, Bavaria’s gorgeous capital city, is home to the world’s most famous glockenspiel – essentially, a clock that puts on a mechanized performance.  High on the tower of the New Town Hall, the glockenspiel is the focal point of the city’s impressive main square, the Marienplatz.  Travelers to Munich can catch the glockenspiel show at 11 a.m. daily throughout the year, with additional showings at 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. during the summer.  The performance, which lasts approximately ten minutes, showcases a duel between Bavaria and a foe – of course, Bavaria wins, much to the delight of the kingdom’s royal family.

2. Climb Munich’s St. Peter’s Church for an enviable view

St. Peter's Church, Munich, Germany

Where does one go to get the best view of quaint, red-roofed Munich?  To the top of Saint Peter’s Church, of course, a landmark that also sits conveniently along the Marienplatz.  Climbing hundreds of stairs might seem daunting, but the view is unequivocally worth it.  Visitors can’t help but marvel at the sprawling, historic cityscape below – much of which was destroyed by Allied bombing raids in World War II.  Thankfully, the city came together to rebuild in the years following the war, meaning that visitors can experience a metropolis with all the character and charm we’d expect when traveling to Bavaria.

3. Visit the stunning Ettal Abbey.

What To Do In Bavaria - Ettal Abbey

Tours of this lovely site are available throughout the morning and afternoon (if you feel like deciphering some German, head to Ettal Abbey’s website for more information), but I found this structure’s exterior to be marvelous at sunset.  Without a doubt, Ettal Abbey is definitely a hidden architectural gem – and it’s only a few miles down the street from the popular Bavarian town of Oberammergau!  Ettal Abbey epitomizes the classically elegant old-world architecture that continues to draw visitors to Bavaria from all over the world.

4. Take to the water at Berchtesgaden National Park

Lake Konigssee, Berchtesgaden, Germany

A favorite for central Europeans looking to vacation out in the countryside, Berchtesgaden has somehow managed to evade the American tourist radar.  Lake Konigssee, the park’s highlight, is a mere half-hour drive from Salzburg, Austria and makes for a perfect day trip.  Hop on board one of the lake’s small boats in rain, shine, or fog for a scenic ride out to the picturesque Saint Bartholomew’s Church.  The fjord-like scenery will steal your heart at first sight, I promise!  Read more about the park, Lake Konigssee, and it’s ties to Hitler’s inner circle here.

5. Wander the grounds of Neuschwanstein Castle

castle

Bavaria’s most recognizable icon, Neuschwanstein Castle, deserves a spot on any south German itinerary.  Easily accessible from Munich and Salzburg this fairy-tale abode inspired Walt Disney himself when designing Sleeping Beauty’s castle.  Ludwig II, the Bavarian King who famously constructed this ostentatious home while simultaneously bankrupting his kingdom, barely spent any time in Neuschwanstein and died shortly after its completion.  The castle opened to the public almost immediately, and has since become one of Germany’s most treasured sights.  While you’re at Neuschwanstein, don’t forget to stop by the castle’s less popular, but more authentic, neighbor, Hohenschwangau.  Read more about the castle here.

6. Ponder German history in Oberammergau

Oberammergau, Germany

Street art meets religious history in this small Bavarian town just an hour south of Munich.  Oberammergau might seem sleepy and quiet at first sight, but this enclave blossoms into a tourist hotspot once every ten years, when locals famously put on the world-renowned Passion Play, depicting the last days and crucifixion of Jesus.  Read more about Oberammergau and its unique painted public buildings here.

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