Exploring Bavaria In November: A Guide To Autumn Adventures

If you're looking for a winter wonderland, Bavaria in November is the place to be. The region offers snow-covered landscapes, enchanting Christmas markets, and traditional Bavarian cuisine.

For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of cable cars and ski resorts to explore, such as Germany's highest peak, Zugspitze, which can be reached by cable car or cog railway. The Bavarian Alps provide a stunning backdrop for winter sports enthusiasts, with well-groomed slopes and modern facilities.

The city of Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a great place to start your journey. Here, you can visit Marienplatz, the city's large central square, and explore the neo-Gothic facade of the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall). The Glockenspiel, a huge clock with moving figures, performs twice a day and always draws a crowd.

If you're travelling with kids, there's plenty to keep them entertained, too. Legoland is a popular attraction, and the Englischer Garten in Munich offers playgrounds and plenty of space to run and explore.

So, whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a chance to indulge in some winter sports, Bavaria in November has something for everyone.

Explore the Christmas markets

Bavaria's Christmas markets are a magical experience, with enchanting decorations, festive food and drink, and unique gifts. Here's a guide to exploring the Christmas markets of Bavaria in November:

Munich

The Munich Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz (main square) is the original and most traditional Munich Christmas market, with roots dating back to the 14th century. Set against the romantic backdrop of the neo-Gothic town hall, the market exudes old Bavarian charm. It features a wide variety of stalls, including those selling Nativity scenes, gifts, and traditional crafts. The market also offers a glimpse into ancient crafts and living customs, with artisans demonstrating their skills. For children, there is the heavenly workshop 'Himmelswerkstatt', offering free crafting fun. The market runs from 25 November to 24 December 2024.

In addition to the main market, Munich has a series of other lovingly designed markets in its various districts:

• The Christmas Village in the Kaiserhof of the Residenz (city palace) – a fairytale-like market with a focus on handicrafts, including goldsmiths, fur tanners, and glassblowers. It runs from 18 November to 22 December 2024.
• Medieval Christmas Market at Wittelsbacherplatz – This market takes you back to the Middle Ages, with knights, noblewomen, and jugglers. It showcases ancient crafts, such as forging and glass blowing, and offers a unique culinary experience with vegan options and traditional drinks like Feuerzangenbowle. The market runs from 23 November to 23 December 2024.
• Pink Christmas in Glockenbachviertel – The queer Christmas market glows in pink, welcoming the LGBTQ community with mulled wine, gifts, tasty treats, and a small stage featuring artists and singers. It runs from 25 November to 23 December 2024.
• Christmas Market at Sendlinger Tor – This market offers a global selection of goods, from Nativity scenes and Christmas tree decorations to scented oils, ceramics, and Indian handicrafts. It runs from 25 November to 22 December 2024.
• And many more, including markets in Haidhausen, Bogenhausen, Lehel, Schwabing, Olympiapark, and more.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

The Reiterlesmarkt (horserider's market) in the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of the most charming and oldest Christmas markets in Bavaria. The festively decorated medieval alleys, along with the market square, Kirchplatz, and Grüner Market, create a magical atmosphere. Here, you'll find culinary delights, white mulled wine, and artisanal products. The market is highlighted by performances of the "Rothenburger Reiterle," a mythical figure from pre-Christian times. Rothenburg also offers brass concerts, church concerts, and guided tours of the historic old town. The market runs from 29 November to 23 December 2024.

Nuremberg

The Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, located in the heart of the Old Town, is known as one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world. It offers a festive atmosphere, with a children's Christmas area featuring a miniature railway and hands-on stalls. The "Christkind" (German for "Christ-child") visits the market every Tuesday to Friday at 2:30 pm, inviting children to ride the multi-storey carousel. The market runs from 29 November to 24 December 2024.

Treuchtlingen

The Christmas market at the Stadtschloss in Treuchtlingen, a former moated castle in Renaissance style, offers a romantic and historic setting. After dark, the castle is illuminated, filling the air with the scent of mullet wine and biscuits. A special attraction is the medieval market, which takes visitors back to the realm of knights, castles, and mythical creatures. The market takes place on two Advent weekends, usually the second and third Advent.

Coburg

The Coburg Christmas market is set in the historic market square between the historic town hall and the old ducal chancellery. Traders decorate their stalls with fir greenery, twinkling lights, and Christmas figures. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, punch, sweets, and the famous Coburg bratwurst, grilled on dried pine cones. The market is accompanied by musical performances from artists, choirs, and bands. The market runs from 29 November to 23 December 2024.

Regensburg

Regensburg welcomes visitors with four Christmas markets in the Old Town. One can take a guided walk along the Ecumenical Nativity Trail, discovering diverse representations of the Christmas story. Cruise liners offer Advent cruises on the Danube, and musical highlights include concerts by the Regensburger Domspatzen choir in the Cathedral. The Christmas market runs from 25 November to 23 December 2024.

Augsburg

The Augsburg Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, is set against the backdrop of the Renaissance town hall. It features over 150 stalls offering handicrafts, treats, and hot mulled wine. A highlight is the unique angelic game on the town hall balcony, where 23 angels create a dreamlike backdrop. The market runs from 23 November to 24 December 2024.

And More!

Bavaria boasts many other charming Christmas markets, each with its unique atmosphere:

• Würzburg – A Christmas market stretching across several squares in the old town, offering a variety of stalls with treats, gifts, arts, and crafts. The market is accompanied by live music, choir performances, and other entertainment. It runs from 29 November to 23 December 2024.
• Iphofen – A traditional Christmas market in the well-known wine town of Iphofen, held on the second Advent weekend. Visitors can stroll through the decorated market square and enjoy handicrafts, Christmas decorations, and culinary specialties, including Franconian mulled wine. It takes place on 7 and

Visit the highest peak in Germany

If you're looking to visit the highest peak in Germany, you'll want to head to the Zugspitze, which rises to 2,962 metres (9,718 feet) above sea level. Located in the Wetterstein Mountains, south of the town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Zugspitze is accessible by cable car, cogwheel train, and the Gletscherbahn cable car.

Here's a detailed itinerary for your visit to the Zugspitze:

Getting There

The Zugspitze can be reached by three different cable cars, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Cable Car Zugspitze, which holds a world record, and the Gletscherbahn cable car take you directly to the summit. Alternatively, you can opt for the cogwheel train, which runs inside the northern flank of the mountain and ends at the Zugspitzplatt, from where a second cable car will take you to the summit.

Things to Do at the Summit

At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of four countries: Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland. On a clear day, you'll be able to see over 400 surrounding mountain peaks. You can also visit the Maria Heimsuchung chapel, which is a short hike from the Zugspitze plateau and is known as Germany's highest church.

Dining Options

There are several dining options at the summit, including the Panorama 2962, Restaurant Sonnalpin, and Gletscher 2600. These restaurants offer refreshments and can also accommodate groups for company celebrations, seminars, and conferences.

Outdoor Activities

The Zugspitze offers a range of outdoor activities for hobby sports enthusiasts, professional athletes, and families. You can try mountaineering, with challenging tours to the summit for experienced amateurs and professionals. During the winter, you can enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding on groomed natural snow. Tobogganing on the Zugspitze plateau is another fun activity for all ages, with bob sledges and wooden sledges available for rent. For a unique experience, spend the night in the Iglu-Dorf Zugspitze, a village made of ice, complete with an evening hike in the snow, a fondue dinner, and access to a spa area.

Zugspitze in Winter

Even in winter, the Zugspitze is a popular destination. The peak season is the best time to visit, as snowfall is at its highest, making it perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. The area boasts world-class skiing resorts and vibrant winter festivals, such as the famous Christkindlmarkt in Munich.

So, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking breathtaking views, a visit to the Zugspitze will surely be a highlight of your trip to Bavaria.

Go ice skating

Ice skating is a popular activity in Bavaria, and for good reason! There are plenty of options for those looking to glide across the ice and take in the beautiful surroundings. Here are some places to go ice skating and things to keep in mind when planning your ice skating activities in Bavaria in November:

Natural Ice Rinks and Indoor Options

Bavaria offers a range of ice skating options, from natural ice rinks on frozen lakes to indoor ice rinks. The Zugspitz Arena Bayern-Tirol, for example, provides a wide range of choices, including frozen lakes, a natural ice rink, and an indoor ice rink. You can enjoy ice skating with a touch of Olympic flair, as this region was once the site of the Olympic Games.

Ice Skating Locations

In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you can find both an ice rink/stadium and natural ice for skating. This town is also known for its proximity to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle and Germany's highest peak, Zugspitze.

The town of Ehrwald, located near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, also offers ice skating opportunities with an artificial ice rink and a guest curling option.

Getting Around

When planning your ice skating adventures, it's important to consider transportation options. Bavaria has a well-developed public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams, which can help you reach various skating locations. However, if you prefer more flexibility or are travelling to remote areas, renting a car may be a better option. Just keep in mind that driving in Bavaria during winter can be challenging due to snowy and icy conditions, so ensure you have winter tires and check the latest road conditions before embarking on your journey.

Other Winter Activities

Bavaria offers a multitude of winter activities beyond ice skating. You can try your hand at other winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. The region boasts numerous ski resorts with well-groomed slopes suitable for all skill levels. Additionally, Bavaria is known for its vibrant winter festivals, including the famous Christkindlmarkt in Nuremberg and the Fasching Carnival. So, you can easily combine your ice skating plans with other festive activities and explore the region's rich cultural offerings.

Packing Essentials

When packing for your ice skating and winter adventures in Bavaria, don't forget these essentials:

• Warm winter clothing, including thermal underwear, sweaters, a good winter coat, hats, gloves, scarves, and thick socks.
• Waterproof boots with good traction to navigate icy surfaces safely.
• Hand warmers to keep your hands toasty during outdoor activities.

Try tobogganing

Bavaria offers a great variety of natural toboggan runs, with something for everyone, from families to experts. Swap skis for runners and try tobogganing, a fun and affordable winter sport that requires little material effort and costs. Here is a list of some of the best toboggan runs in Bavaria:

Hirscheckblitz near Ramsau

The Hirscheckblitz near Ramsau in the Berchtesgadener Land region promises fast-paced tobogganing fun. The descent starts at an altitude of approximately 1,390 metres at the top station of the Hirscheck chairlift and winds down 400 metres to the valley station. It is considered moderately difficult, making it enjoyable for beginners and families, but still offering a thrilling experience. You can rent toboggans at the valley and mountain stations, and there is a mountain inn at the top station with magnificent views of Mount Watzmann, Mount Hochkalter and Wimbach Valley.

Hindenburghütte near Reit im Winkl

Take a bus from Tourist Info and Blindau car park up to the Hemmersuppenalm area, where you'll find the cosy alpine inn "Hindenburghütte". After a bite to eat, borrow a toboggan and practise on a small slope. Then, enjoy the views of the mountains before descending on a four-kilometre track, considered demanding and unsuitable for small children or inexperienced tobogganers. There is also a rolled winter hiking trail that leads through the alpine pasture area.

Chiemgau-Spree from Priener Hütte

This is one of the longest toboggan runs in Chiemgau! First, hike for about two and a half hours from the Geigelstein hikers' car park in Sachrang up to the "Priener Hütte", a cosy mountain inn located at an altitude of 1,410 metres. After a hearty snack, descend the same route, being attentive on the way up and sledding down with foresight, taking in the beautiful landscape.

Wallberg near Lake Tegernsee

Mount Wallberg (1,722 metres) offers a popular toboggan run that starts at the mountain station and descends 825 metres to the valley station. It is one of the longest and most sporty natural toboggan runs in Bavaria and is only recommended for experienced tobogganers. Sturdy shoes, a helmet, and ski goggles are recommended. Toboggans can be hired at the valley station.

Luisenburg near Wunsiedel

The Luisenburg, a sea of rocks made of huge granite blocks, extends near Wunsiedel in the Fichtel Mountains. From the upper car park of Luisenburg Castle, follow the ascent path to the toboggan run, which is about 1.3 kilometres long and prepared by volunteers. There is a Franconian inn at the "Luisenburg Resort" for a refreshing stop.

Ochsenkopf

Mount Ochsenkopf, located in the Fichtel Mountains, offers several toboggan runs, including the family-friendly course at the Bleaml-Alm in Fichtelberg-Neubau and the longer Fleckl-Grassemann toboggan run. The toboggan run on the slope of the former Lattalift at the north valley station of the Mount Ochsenkopf chairlift in Bischofsgrün is also worth checking out.

Hochzell and Scherau near Bodenmais

The Hochzell and Scherau forest toboggan runs near Bodenmais offer fun for families and experts alike! Both tracks are about three kilometres long and end in Scherau, with a short walk to the nearest ski bus stop. The Bodenmais winter bus provides free transportation back to the starting point.

Grosser Arber

Take the six-seater Sonnenhang chairlift up to the top station and rent a toboggan if you haven't brought your own. There is a restaurant at the top, as well as a children's toboggan run for independent adventures. The main toboggan run is easy and suitable for children, running parallel to the ski slope and offering a wide, not-too-steep path. There are two refreshment stops along the way, with a free toboggan bus to take you back to the start.

Hohenbogen

The Hohenbogen mountain range offers a 700-metre-long winter toboggan run that starts at the middle station of the chairlift and runs through the forest, away from the ski slopes. In the evening, the run is illuminated with floodlights, providing a unique experience. There is also a wider, flatter forest path suitable for families with small children.

Riedlberg

The Riedlberg ski area offers a T-bar lift that brings tobogganists up to the start, from where you can take a one-kilometre cable car down to the valley. This route is suitable for families, and there is a sunny terrace at the "Riedlberg Alm" for a relaxing break. Parties are also held here regularly.

Mount Breitenberg near Pfronten

Mount Breitenberg boasts a 6.5-kilometre natural toboggan run along its flank. Toboggan rental is available at the valley station of the Breitenberg cable car. After a gondola and chairlift ride, followed by a half-hour walk, you'll reach the summit region, where you can enjoy a snack at the "Ostlerhütte" with stunning views. The descent offers a mix of leisurely and sporty passages, and there is a free bus to take you back to the valley station.

Mount Mittagberg near Immenstadt

Mount Mittagberg, part of the Hochgrat range, offers a five-kilometre natural toboggan run down to Immenstadt, providing winter fun with wonderful views of the Allgäu Alps. The lower part of the track leads through the forest, and there are two refreshment stops along the way. Toboggan rental is available at the valley station.

Hornbahn near Bad Hindelang

Bad Hindelang features three toboggan runs, each 3.5 kilometres long, starting at the mountain inn "Zum Oberen Horn". The yellow-marked run is winding and requires skill, while the blue route is perfect for families. The red route offers a longer, sweeping descent into the Ostrachtal valley.

Hochgratbahn near Oberstaufen

The Hochgratbahn near Oberstaufen offers a five-kilometre natural toboggan run that is fast-paced and sporty

Indulge in Bavarian cuisine