Winter Wonders In Bavaria: What To See

Bavaria in winter is a magical and picturesque experience for travellers. From snow-covered landscapes to enchanting Christmas markets, there is something for everyone.

Bavaria, Germany's largest state, is filled with attractions and things to do. It offers some of the country's most beautiful scenery, including spectacular mountain peaks, rolling hills, and lovely lakes. The region is steeped in history and is known for its romantic castles, grand imperial palaces, and endearing old-world customs.

- Explore the capital city of Munich, with its famous Marienplatz, the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), and the Frauenkirche, the Cathedral of Our Lady.

- Visit the Zugspitze, Germany's tallest mountain, and enjoy the surrounding Bavarian Alps.

- Tour Nürnberg Castle and the historic Altstadt (Old Town).

- Relax in the Englischer Garten (English Garden), one of the most popular places in Munich for locals and tourists alike.

- Discover the medieval walled town of Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber, a highlight of the Romantic Road driving route.

- Experience the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Palace, which inspired Walt Disney's theme park castles.

- Stroll through the narrow streets of Regensburg, known as Germany's medieval miracle.

- Indulge in beer tasting in Bamberg and Nuremberg, two important brewing cities.

Explore the winter sports and festivals of Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a resort town in the German countryside and is a great base for exploring Bavaria in winter. The town is known for its ski resorts, with over 60 kilometres of slopes, well-groomed trails, and modern facilities. The ski resorts offer something for everyone, from family-friendly areas to challenging slopes for experienced skiers.

For those who want to try something other than skiing, there are over 110 kilometres of winter hiking trails, including snowshoe hikes and challenging tours in the Bavarian Alpine region. The winter hiking trails offer enchanting paths through snow-covered landscapes, with tranquil surroundings and breathtaking views.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous beer festival, Festwochen, in August, and a colourful carnival in January. The town's reunification is celebrated during the Festwochen Garmisch-Partenkirchen festival in late July and early August, where the two former settlements, Garmisch and Partenkirchen, showcase their unique cultures through folk music, dance, and culinary delights.

Foodies will also enjoy the delicious mountain hut cuisine in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where they can sample Bavarian delicacies and authentic hospitality in rustic settings.

With its ski resorts, winter hiking trails, and festive celebrations, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a great destination for those looking to explore the winter sports and festivals of Bavaria.

Discover the medieval miracle of Regensburg

Regensburg, a Bavarian town nestled on the banks of the Donau River, is a true medieval marvel. With a history that dates back over 2,000 years, it boasts the distinction of being the only authentically preserved large medieval city in Germany. The Old Town of Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates visitors with its colourful array of historic buildings and Mediterranean flair.

One of the town's most prominent landmarks is the Stone Bridge ("Steinerne Brücke"), which has served as the city's sole crossing over the river for more than 800 years. This engineering marvel, constructed between 1135 and 1146, inspired the design of other renowned bridges, including Prague's Charles Bridge. Another notable site is the Porta Praetoria, a remnant of Roman occupation and one of the most impressive structures from that era.

Regensburg's architectural wonders also include the Cathedral of Regensburg, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The town's rich history as a trading centre is reflected in its lively Old Town, where modern shopping centres coexist with independent boutiques. The city's vibrant student life adds a youthful vibe to its ancient charm, with a plethora of bars, cafes, and restaurants offering a variety of culinary delights.

For food enthusiasts, Regensburg presents a unique opportunity to savour traditional Bavarian cuisine. The ancient Wurstküche, located near the Stone Bridge, is Germany's oldest sausage kitchen, serving homemade sausages with sauerkraut and sweet mustard for over 500 years. The city also boasts beautiful beer gardens, cosy cafes, and hip bars, providing a delightful blend of Bavarian tradition and contemporary flair.

Regensburg's well-preserved historical buildings, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination when exploring Bavaria in winter. Its dense concentration of landmarks and sights invites exploration on foot, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the medieval miracle that is Regensburg.

Wander the old imperial town of Rothenburg

The town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, meaning "Red fortress above the Tauber", is a well-preserved medieval town in the district of Ansbach of Mittelfranken, Bavaria. It is one of only four towns in Germany with completely intact city walls. Wander through the town's winding alleys and cobblestone lanes, and admire the colourful half-timbered houses and pretty squares.

Start your tour at the Rödertor gate, one of the five main gates of the outer city fortifications, and embark on the four-kilometre-long Rothenburg Tower Trail, which takes you around the town wall. Along the way, you'll pass information boards that provide insights into the towers of the city wall and other attractions. Some of the towers are open to visitors, and the wall itself is accessible in certain places, offering the best views of the city's 42 towers.

Near the Kobolzell tower, you'll find the Plönlein, a picturesque narrow half-timbered building framed by the Kobolzell Gate and the Siebers Tower, which is one of the town's most photographed spots. It is said that Walt Disney's illustrators were inspired by this very building when creating the birthplace of Pinocchio.

Continue your walk to the Burg Gate and Garden, where the Rothenburg Imperial Castle once stood before it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1356. The stones from the ruins were used to build the city walls. The garden offers a romantic atmosphere and stunning views of the valley surrounding Rothenburg.

For a glimpse into the darker side of the Middle Ages, visit the Medieval Criminal Museum, Europe's largest museum of legal studies, located just a two-minute walk from the Plönlein. Here, you'll find a collection of masks of shame, stretching benches, torture devices, and an iron maiden.

End your day at the Castle Garden, where the former castle grounds provide a romantic setting for a relaxing stroll. The centrepiece is a small figurine garden that symbolises the seasons and the four elements.

Stay overnight in Rothenburg to truly experience the medieval atmosphere and explore the town when it's at its most peaceful, before and after the tour groups arrive.

Visit the Christkindlmarkt in Munich

Bavaria in winter is a magical and picturesque experience, offering everything from snow-covered landscapes to enchanting Christmas markets. One of the most famous Christmas markets in Bavaria is the Christkindlmarkt in Munich, which takes place in the main square of Marienplatz. Here are some reasons why you should visit the Christkindlmarkt in Munich:

A Traditional Market with a Long History

The Munich Christkindlmarkt is considered the original and largest Christmas market in the city, with roots dating back to the 14th century. It has been held in Marienplatz since 1972, attracting around three million visitors from all over the world each year. The market typically features over 130 stalls selling a variety of goods and food, preserving old Bavarian traditions and crafts.

A Festive Atmosphere with Musical Accompaniment

The Christkindlmarkt is not just about shopping; it's an immersive festive experience. The market is adorned with glittering lights and fragrant almonds, filling the air with a wonderful aroma. From the town hall balcony, you'll be treated to live Bavarian folk music, brass bands, and choirs performing Advent music to enhance the holiday spirit.

Unique Shopping Experiences and Delicious Treats

At the Christkindlmarkt, you'll find an array of unique shopping experiences. The Kripperlmarkt, located west of Marienplatz, offers Nativity scenes, figures, and accessories, while other stalls sell everything from handcrafted goods to delicious treats like gingerbread and mulled wine. The market also features an extensive musical-cultural program, ensuring there's something for everyone.

A Children's Paradise

The Christkindlmarkt is a wonderful experience for children, too. The "Himmelswerkstatt" is a free creative workshop for children aged six to twelve, where they can make their own Christmas decorations and explore their creativity. There's also a puppet theater, "Kasperl," that performs entertaining stories in the town hall courtyard, captivating young audiences.

A Chance to Explore Munich

While visiting the Christkindlmarkt, you can also explore the beautiful city of Munich. Known for its rich history, Munich offers a range of attractions, including historical sights, popular museums, and traditional Bavarian cuisine. The city is quite friendly to English-speaking travelers and boasts a great public transportation system, making it easy to navigate.

Take in the views from Zugspitze

Bavaria in winter is a magical and picturesque destination, offering snow-covered landscapes, enchanting Christmas markets, and world-class ski resorts. One of the highlights of a winter trip to Bavaria is a visit to Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak. Here are some reasons why you should take in the views from Zugspitze:

Unparalleled Views

From the summit of Zugspitze, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of four countries: Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland. On a clear day, you can see the peaks of 400 surrounding mountains, a truly awe-inspiring sight. The Zugspitze Round Trip allows you to take in these incredible vistas, utilising various modes of transport.

Cable Car Experience

The Cable Car Zugspitze is a modern marvel, holding three world records. It has the highest steel support for a cable car at 127 metres, a unique altitude difference of two kilometres between the valley and mountain stations, and the longest freely suspended rope section in the world at 3.2 kilometres. The ride offers stunning views of the valley and Lake Eibsee.

Mountain Railways

In addition to the cable car, you can also access the Zugspitze using the cogwheel train and the Gletscherbahn cable car. The cogwheel train is a nostalgic way to travel, taking you through the 4.5-kilometre Zugspitztunnel to the Zugspitze plateau. The Gletscherbahn cable car provides additional opportunities for breathtaking views as you ascend to the summit.

Winter Sports

Zugspitze is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts, boasting Germany's highest ski area with 20 kilometres of ski runs. The natural snow makes skiing and snowboarding an incredible experience. For those seeking a challenge, there are also mountaineering tours to the summit for experienced amateurs and professional mountaineers.

Dining Options

At the summit, you can indulge in culinary delights at Panorama 2962, where you can savour delicious food while taking in the surrounding mountain scenery. There are also restaurants at the Photostop Zugspitze and the Zugspitze plateau, such as Gletscherrestaurant Sonnalpin and Gletscher 2600, ensuring you stay energised during your visit.

Maria Heimsuchung Chapel

A short hike from the Zugspitze plateau will lead you to Maria Heimsuchung, Germany's highest church. This peaceful chapel offers a respite from the outdoor activities and a chance to immerse yourself in the region's religious culture.

So, if you're planning a winter trip to Bavaria, be sure to include a visit to Zugspitze for incredible views, outdoor adventures, and memorable dining experiences. It's sure to be a highlight of your Bavarian winter journey!

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