Explore Bavaria: A 5 Day Itinerary in Germany’s Alpine Region

Known for its rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and historic sites, Bavaria is one of the top destinations to visit in Germany. Some of the most mesmerising mountain views are on the Bavarian Alps which are located in the southeast of the region. Many of the cities in Bavaria are well-preserved old medieval towns with ancient monuments and museums to remember their history. Bavaria’s cultural identity lies in its distinctive music, festivals, including Oktoberfest, and cuisine.

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Bavaria used to be an independent kingdom, meaning it had a very significant role in German history. The region was the centre of cultural, intellectual, and artistic life in Germany. After experiencing major destruction in World War II, Bavaria became a part of the Federal Republic of Germany. Not only is Bavaria a popular destination year-round for travellers, it’s also one of the strongest economic regions in Germany. It is home to many major industries such as technology, automotive manufacturing (BMW and Audis, anyone?), and biotechnology. Discover what Bavaria has to offer in 5 days!

Know Before You Go:

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Getting There

Munich International Airport (MUC) is the main airport in Bavaria, and you can easily get there from continental Europe as it is connected to many major cities such as Paris, Frankfurt, or Vienna. Alternatively, Airport Nürnberg (NUE) and Airport Augsburg (AGB) are also located in Bavaria if you want to travel to Augsburg or Nuremberg first.If none of these airports take you directly to your destination in Bavaria, you can simply hop on a bus, train, or take a car to get you where you want to go.

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Public Transportation

The train network in Bavaria will take you all around the region and is efficient in getting to other cities and tourist attractions. Consider purchasing a Bavaria Ticket if you are mainly getting around by train. The Ticket allows unlimited travel on regional trains within Bavaria. If you want a cheaper alternative, buses are the way to go and allow you to get to more remote locations.

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Cycling is very popular in Bavaria as there are many scenic routes and dedicated bike paths available. There are many bike rentals available all around the region, so hop on and get ready for a bike ride you’ll never forget.

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Walking is a great go-to when exploring the many cities and towns in Bavaria. It is also especially convenient for short trips and sightseeing. Many cities and towns have well-maintained sidewalks and are pedestrian friendly.

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Driving or Taxis

Renting a car is an easy way to navigate Bavaria and explore the region at your own pace. We love renting a car with Rent A Car, because of their wide range of different vehicles and locations to choose from.

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Taxis are a convenient option for short trips and are widely available throughout Bavaria. The only downside is that taxis can be pretty expensive, so keep that in mind if there’s public transportation available or if your destination is walkable.

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Weather

Spring in Bavaria has mild temperatures and increasing amounts of sunshine. Rainfall is a commonality in the springtime, so be ready for occasional showers, but that just means the May flowers are going to be beautiful. Summer is the warmest season in Bavaria, although it never gets too hot. Autumn is a beautiful time of year with cooling temperatures and trees covered in colourful leaves. Rain is very prominent this season, so make sure you’re ready. Winter can be cold, and snow is common in the higher elevations of Bavaria.

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Try to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly, because the weather can turn from warm to cold to rainy in an instant. Since the weather is constantly changing between cities and towns within Bavaria, be sure to check the forecast for your specific destination.

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Day 1: Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a culturally rich city known for its music, art, museums, and architecture. Munich has a cultural heritage dating back to the days of the Holy Roman Empire. The city has an urban landscape with plenty of parks, gardens, and greenery that provide a comfortable atmosphere. Make sure to take a guided bike tour to explore Munich in-depth.

Munich’s beautiful architecture, which includes modern design like the Olympic Park to Gothic-style like the spires of the Frauenkirche, gives recognition to the city’s rich history. Munich is also home to museums like the Deutsches Museum and the Alte Pinakothek, which have some of the finest collections of art and artefacts in Europe.

All around, Munich is known for its vibrant atmosphere with a lively nightlife, plenty of parks and greenery, and delicious cuisine. You can even take a guided Beer Hall and Brewery Tour! Munich has something for everyone whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply vibing in the bustling city.

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Local Places to Eat:

• Bratwurstherzl is a 17th-century Bavarian-Franconian restaurant that will have you laughing and drinking with your mates while enjoying rich, hearty fare.
• Hofbräuhaus München is a 3-floor beer hall that dates back to the 16th century. It has a Bavarian restaurant, entertaining shows and an upbeat vibe.
• Mariannenhof is a vibrant tavern with mouth-watering Schnitzel, steaks, and burgers.

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Places to Stay:

Budget Friendly - Pension Gärtnerplatz

Free parking and a private bathroom are available at the Pension Gärtnerplatz and Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz is 200 yards while the European Patent Office is 450 yards away.

Mid-Range - Hotel Ambiente Garni

This hotel has a side-street location, free Wi-Fi, and a train station that is a two-minute walk away. The modern style rooms of the Hotel Ambiente Garni include a TV, a private bathroom, and a mini bar.

Luxury - Domus Hotel

Domus Hotel is just 450 yards from the Bavarian National Museum and 650 yards from Hofbräuhaus and the Bavarian State Opera. The hotel has a sun terrace and a restaurant for guests to enjoy.

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Day 2: Füssen

Surrounded by rolling hills and mountains, Füssen is known for its picturesque setting, and is a popular stop for outdoor lovers. The town is also home to some of the most beautiful castles including the Neuschwanstein Castle, which was built in the late 19th century by King Ludwig II. Find yourself wandering the winding cobblestone streets and be amazed by the traditional Alpine architecture.

Spend the day exploring, or take a cable car up to the top of the surrounding mountains or stroll along by the river and lakes that are nearby. Füssen does not have a shortage of things to see and do, and it also has a vibrant cultural scene. There are plenty of museums, galleries, and music venues to immerse yourself into the lively atmosphere of the town. Try your hand at wood carving or glassblowing, which are two of the many traditional crafts Füssen has to offer.

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Local Places to Eat:

• Waldwirtschaft am Mittersee - Restaurant & Café offers stunning views of the nearby lake. Set in a cosy cottage with a terrace and serving robust currywurst, Schnitzel, and beer, you might never want to leave!
• Restaurant Ritterstuben serves traditional Bavarian cuisine like Schnitzel and spaetzle, all while served in rustic dining rooms and has a garden.
• Madame Plüsch has sharing platters of spaetzle noodles, smoked sausages, and sauerkraut for you and your bae to enjoy.

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Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle was one of my absolute favourite stops in Bavaria as it was like walking into a fairy tale! It’s hard to put into words how exquisite this Castle really is, but I’ll try. This stunning 19th-century castle is located in the Bavarian Alps and was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as a private retreat and a homage to German composer Richard Wagner. However, it was only used by King Ludwig II for a few months before his untimely death in 1886. After that, the Castle was then opened to the public and has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The design of Neuschwanstein is inspired by medieval castles, which means it has numerous turrets, towers, and a stunning white facade. The inside of the Castle is lavishly decorated with intricate wood carvings, murals, and colourful frescoes which depict scenes from German mythology and history. One of my favourite rooms in the Castle is the Throne Room, which is adorned with gold leaf and elegant chandeliers. I've never seen a room that elaborate in my entire life!

The Castle's location on a hill overlooking the countryside offers stunning views of the surrounding area. This is a must-see for everyone, and you can even take a day trip by train to Neuschwanstein so grab your partner, your squad, even your dog (while dogs aren’t allowed inside the castle feel free to explore the area outside with your furry friend) and get ready to have your breath taken away!

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Church of the Holy Spirit (Heilig-Geist-Spitalkirche)

The Church of the Holy Spirit was originally built as a hospital chapel in the 14th century but has been renovated and expanded several times over the centuries. The Church’s Gothic architecture, with a soaring nave, high vaulted ceilings, and intricate stonework is something worth taking a moment to soak it all in. The stunning stained glass windows, which date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints.

Heilig-Geist-Spitalkirche is known for its role in the history of Munich, because it was used as a meeting place for the city council and other civic organisations. It was also used as a refuge during times of war and disaster, and served as a shelter for the sick and the poor.

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Lechfall

Lechfall is formed by the Lech River, which flows through the town and drops about 12 metres over a rocky ledge. Offering beautiful views of the Lech River and the surrounding countryside, Lechfall is a popular tourist attraction. Watch the water cascade down the rocks and create a misty spray, and you can also take a short hike along the river to explore the area.

The historic St. Mang's Bridge is one of the highlights of Lechfall. It spans the river just upstream from the waterfall and was built in the 19th century. The bridge is named after St. Mang, the patron saint of the nearby Benedictine monastery.

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Linderhof Palace

While Neuschwanstein has to be my favourite castle, you can’t miss out on Linderhof Palace. It was designed in the Rococo style, and has ornate decoration and lavish furnishings. It was built on the site of an earlier hunting lodge, and was intended as a private retreat for the king.

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The palace has several notable features, including a grand hall with a chandelier, a mirrored dining room, and a bedroom with a canopy bed. The palace also has a number of beautifully landscaped gardens, including an Italian-style garden with fountains and sculptures, and a grotto with a man-made lake and a statue of a mythological figure.

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The best room in Linderhof Palace in my opinion has to be the Hall of Mirrors, which was inspired by the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles in France. The hall is decorated with gold leaf and mirrors, and the intricacy and detail in the room is absolutely astounding.

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Benedictine Monastery of St Mang

This Monastery was founded in the 9th century by St. Magnus of Füssen, and named after St. Mang, an early Christian martyr. The Monastery was crucial in the history of religion as it was a centre of religious, cultural, and intellectual life. It also housed the relics of St. Magnus, which were believed to have healing powers.

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The Monastery has several buildings, including the basilica of St. Mang, which was built in the Romanesque style in the 11th and 12th centuries. It contains important works of art, like frescoes and sculptures, and is notable for its beautiful cloister and crypt. There is also a museum that showcases the history of Bavaria, with exhibits on the life of St. Magnus, the history of the monastery, and the cultural heritage of the region. You can see artefacts from the early Middle Ages, including religious art, manuscripts, and everyday objects.

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Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau was built on the site of an earlier castle and was built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria in the neo-Gothic style between 1832 and 1836. This Castle also served as the childhood home of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. It was intended as a summer and hunting residence for the royal family, and it overlooks the Alpsee lake and the neighbouring Neuschwanstein Castle.

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Surrounded by mountains, forests, and lakes, Hohenschwangau has a picturesque location. The Castle has several towers and turrets, and its interior is lavishly decorated with frescoes and furnishings in a medieval style. There is also a large courtyard, a chapel, and a gatehouse. The Castle was inherited by King Ludwig II, after King Maximilian II death. Ludwig II later commissioned the construction of Neuschwanstein Castle, which can be seen from Hohenschwangau.

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Places to Stay:

Budget Friendly - Bavaria City Hostel

Bavaria City Hostel offers free WiFi, bright, modern dormitories and a terrace. It is only 350 yards from Füssen Train Station. Neuschwanstein Castle and the Tegelberg ski lift are 3.7 miles away while Hohenschwangau Castle is 2.8 miles away from the Hostel. It is 1.7 miles to Forggensee Lake.

Mid-Range - Hotel Sonne

Centrally located in Füssen, the Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles are a 5-minute drive away from Hotel Sonne. Each modern room at the Sonne has a different design and a private bathroom. Feel free to explore the Hohes Schloss palace and Kloster Sankt Mang abbey which are also nearby the hotel.

Luxury - Hotel Hirsch

Less than a 10-minute drive from Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles, Hotel Hirsch offers free Wi-Fi and traditional Bavarian cuisine. These chic rooms are individually furnished and feature Bavarian antiques. All rooms include a flat-screen TV and private bathroom.

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Day 3: Augsburg

Augsburg is a beautiful historic city that dates back to the Roman Empire and is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It is well-preserved and features a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. One example of the gorgeous architecture is the Augsburg Cathedral, a beautiful 11th-century Gothic church that is one of the oldest in Germany. There is also an extensive network of canals that are lined with charming houses and gardens. You can take a historical highlights walking tour of the city of Augsburg to see the best landmarks and attractions.

The Augsburg City Museum, gives you an in-depth look at the city's cultural heritage and history, is just one of the many museums and galleries Augsburg has to offer. The vibrant arts and cultural scene within Augsburg doesn’t disappoint. With numerous theatres, music venues, and art galleries, the city is always bustling with activity and life. Several major tech companies are based in Augsburg, making the city a hub for technology and innovation.

Local Places to Eat:

• Ratskeller Augsburg is in a brick-vaulted space in a 17th-century building that serves delectable robust Southern German cuisine.
• Altstadtgasthaus Bauerntanz is a cosy 16th-century tavern that provides hearty meat plates and Swabian-Bavarian cuisine, and of course, the meal wouldn’t be complete without beer.
• Drei Königinnen is located in a rustic brewery with a beer garden under chestnut trees that serve traditional German cuisine like Schnitzel.

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Augsburg Cathedral

Also known as the Cathedral of St. Mary, the Cathedral was built in the 8th century, but was sadly destroyed in a fire in the 10th century. The structure that stands today was built in the Romanesque style in the 11th century, but has the addition of Gothic elements from renovation in the 14th century.

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The Augsburg Cathedral has an impressive bell tower standing at a height of 70 metres (230 feet) and is one of the tallest in Germany. The tower is also home to the cathedral's largest bell, which weighs over six tons. The famous ‘Augsburg Altar’ is a large Gothic altarpiece dating from the 15th century. Other highlights of the Cathedral's art collection include a Romanesque crucifix, a Baroque pulpit, and numerous medieval sculptures and frescoes.

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Fuggerei

This small complex was founded in 1516 by Jakob Fugger, a wealthy merchant and banker, as a way of providing affordable housing to the city's poor. The Fuggerei consists of 67 houses and 147 apartments, which are still occupied by low-income residents today. The complex is surrounded by a wall and has a single entrance gate. The rent for each apartment is just under one euro per year, yes, that’s right, less than one euro, isn’t that incredible? Residents are required to pay an additional three daily prayers for the Fugger family.

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The Fuggerei also includes a church, a community centre, a museum, and a large garden. The church, known as St. Mark's Church, was built in the early 18th century and is one of the most impressive Baroque churches in Augsburg. The Fuggerei has been in continuous operation for over 500 years, making it the oldest social housing complex in the world, which is totally amazing. Feel free to take a guided walking tour of Fuggerei and the Golden Hall.

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Augsburg City Museum

The Augsburg City Museum has a collection that includes over 35,000 objects spanning more than 2,000 years of the city's history. The Museum's collections are divided into different topics that include art, history, and archaeology. Famous Augsburg artists like Hans Holbein the Elder, Lucas Cranach the Elder, and Johann Heinrich Dannecker, as well as multiple examples of decorative arts are featured in the Museum.

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A collection of historic weapons and armour, which includes suits of armour from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, as well as weapons and firearms from various eras is popular at the Museum. Other exhibits explore the city's industrial history, including its role in the production of textiles and machinery during the Industrial Revolution. The Museum is housed in the former Jesuit College of Augsburg, a historic building dating from the 17th century that was extensively renovated in the early 20th century to accommodate the museum's collections.

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Perlachturm

The tower was built in the 10th century and was originally part of the city's fortifications. It was used as a watchtower and as a means of signalling the approach of enemies or fires. The tower was extensively renovated in the 15th and 16th centuries and was given its current Baroque-style appearance.

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The Perlachturm is 70 metres (230 feet) tall and has a distinctive onion-shaped dome at the top. It is located in the historic city centre and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy the views, as well as explore the tower's interior, which includes a small museum about the history of the tower and the city.

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One of the most famous features of the Perlachturm is its carillon, a musical instrument consisting of a set of bells that are played by a keyboard. The carillon in the Perlachturm has 62 bells and is one of the largest and most impressive in Europe. It plays a variety of tunes throughout the day, and visitors can often hear the music as they explore the city.

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St Ulrich’s and St Afra’s Church

St. Ulrich's and St. Afra's Church, also known as Ulrichskirche, was originally built in the 9th century as a small chapel dedicated to St. Afra, a local martyr who was beheaded in the 3rd century. As the chapel expanded over the centuries, a new nave and choir were added to the church and it was renovated in the Baroque style in the 17th and 18th centuries.

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The impressive interior of the Church includes a number of stunning works of art and decorative features. The high altar is definitely the highlight of this Church, and it was created in the 18th century by the sculptor Johann Georg Bergmüller. The altar features a dramatic depiction of the crucifixion, as well as a number of other religious figures and symbols. The beautifully-carved wooden statues, the frescoes on the ceiling, the ancient relics, and a large organ dating from the 18th century all add to the beauty of the Church.

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Leopold Mozart House Augsburg

This house was the residence of the Mozart family from 1747 to 1773. During this time, Leopold Mozart, father of the legendary Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, taught music at the nearby St. Anna Gymnasium and also composed many works of his own.

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The house is now a museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and work of Leopold Mozart, as well as the cultural and musical scene in Augsburg during the 18th century. The exhibits of the Museum explore Mozart's life and career, as well as the history of music in Augsburg and the surrounding region. There are original musical manuscripts written by Leopold Mozart, as well as personal artefacts and mementos, such as the composer's violin and various personal letters and documents in the Museum. If you are a music fanatic like I am, this is a stop you can’t miss out on!

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Places to Stay:

Budget Friendly - Hotel am alten Park

Hotel am alten Park is just 350 yards from Augsburg Central Station and is only 0.6 miles from both the Augsburg Dom (Cathedral), Augsburg Theatre and the historic Maximilian Street. The rooms are bright with modern furnishings and provide a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, a sofa and work desk. Rooms for allergy sufferers are available on request.

Mid-Range - City Hotel Ost am Kö

Located on Königsplatz square in Augsburg, this hotel features a sauna and relaxation area. City Hotel Ost am Kö is just a few minutes' walk from the Congress Hall and Augburg's historic Old Town district. Augsburg Train Station is just 550 yards away. The rooms at the family-run hotel have a Mediterranean style with a flat-screen TV, satellite radio, and a private bathroom.

Luxury - Hotel am Rathaus

Old Town with its Fuggerei district and striking cathedral are all within walking distance from Hotel am Rathaus. The railway station and Königsplatz bus terminus are also within walking distance. Feel free to relax at the bar in the evening to unwind from your amazing day.

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Day 4: Regensburg

Regensburg offers a glimpse into the past as it is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe and was founded by the Romans in 179 AD. The city's historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the town is full of charm and character. Architecture in Regensburg is stunning, and the Old Town is home to several Gothic and Renaissance buildings, like the St. Peter's Cathedral, the Old City Hall, and the Stone Bridge, one of the oldest bridges in Germany and you can even take a guided tour to get an in-depth look at the Old Town. The city is also located near the Bavarian Forest, so look no further for outdoor adventure.

Shopping in Regensburg is a must and it is also home to many museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions. The traditional Bavarian cuisine of Regensburg is to die for with a wide range of local restaurants and beer gardens serving traditional dishes such as sausages, dumplings, and roasted meats. Explore Regensburg with a short sightseeing tour train tour or a private walking tour.

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Local Places to Eat:

• Gaststätte Gravenreuther has a warm atmosphere set in a tavern with nostalgic decor and sidewalk tables, all the while serving classic Bavarian food.
• Hacker-Pschorr Wirtshaus Regensburg im alten Augustiner Kloster is one restaurant you don’t wanna miss. Set in a centuries old monastery with a shaded garden, Hacker-Pschorr has roast pork, Schnitzel, dumplings and traditional Bavarian beer.
• Weltenburger am Dom serves hearty Bavarian cooking and craft beers in a relaxed setting with a terrace.

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Old Stone Bridge

Alte Steinbrücke is a medieval bridge that spans the Danube River and is one of the oldest and best-preserved stone bridges in Germany. The construction of the bridge started in 1135 and was completed in 1146. This new bridge was built to replace an older wooden bridge that had been destroyed by a flood. The Old Stone Bridge originally had 16 arches and was an important link between the old town of Regensburg and the other side of the Danube.

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This bridge has been through a lot of events, for better or worse. During the Thirty Years' War in the 17th century, the bridge was partially destroyed and had to be rebuilt. In the 18th century, some of the arches were removed to allow larger boats to pass under the bridge. Today, the Old Stone Bridge is part of the city's UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy views of the Danube River and the city's skyline, and make sure to take plenty of pics because this bridge is totally Instagrammable.

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Old City Hall

The Old Town Hall of Regensburg (Altes Rathaus) is a historic building that dates back to the 13th century, where it served as the seat of the city's government for over 700 years. The Gothic architecture is magnificent with its ornate façade, steep gables, and intricate stone carvings. The building’s central tower is crowned by a wrought-iron spire.

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The inside of the City Hall features a grand staircase, high vaulted ceilings, and beautiful frescoes. You can take a guided tour or explore the various rooms and chambers by yourself! One of the coolest of the Old Town Hall is its medieval torture chamber, which is located in the basement. The chamber contains a collection of instruments of torture and punishment, providing a chilling reminder of the darker side of medieval justice. Thankfully, the torture chamber hasn’t been used in a long time.

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Thurn und Taxis Palace

This Palace is the former residence of the Thurn and Taxis family, who used to be one of the wealthiest families in Europe and played a significant role in the development of the postal system. The palace was originally a Benedictine monastery, founded in the 8th century but the Thurn und Taxis family acquired the property in the 16th century. They then transformed it into a grand palace, adding numerous wings, galleries, and gardens over the centuries.

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The Palace features a mix of architectural styles, including Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical. The interior of the palace is equally impressive, with ornate stucco work, intricate frescoes, and valuable artworks and furnishings. Get a glimpse of the lavish lifestyle of the Thurn und Taxis family by taking a guided tour and explore the grand reception rooms, the family chapel, the private apartments, and the extensive gardens and courtyards.

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Regensburg Museum of History

The Regensburg Museum of History’s collection includes over 1,300 exhibits. From archaeological finds and medieval art to modern-day objects and multimedia displays, this Museum highlights the Roman era, the Middle Ages, the Reformation, and the city's role in the development of the modern postal system.

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The collection of Roman artefacts, which includes pottery, jewellery, and everyday objects, as well as a reconstruction of a Roman bathhouse is a must-see for those interested in ancient Roman times. There are also temporary exhibitions so be sure to check out what’s on so you don’t miss out on anything.

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St Peter’s Cathedral

Also known as Regensburger Dom, the Cathedral is dedicated to St. Peter, and it is the seat of the Bishop of Regensburg. Construction of the cathedral began in 1275, and it was not completed until 1872. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several renovations and additions, resulting in a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque elements.

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The Cathedral’s two tall towers, which rise to a height of 105 metres (344 feet) are visible from many parts of the city. The inside of the Cathedral has intricate Gothic vaulting, colourful stained-glass windows, and numerous sculptures and artworks. The famous ‘Stone Bridge of Regensburg’ portal, which features an elaborate sculptural relief depicting scenes from the life of Christ, is one of St Peter’s highlights. There’s also a treasury of valuable liturgical objects and relics, one of which is the famous Golden Madonna, a 13th-century statue made of gilded copper and enamel.

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St Emmeram’s Basilica

This Basilica is dedicated to St. Emmeram, a bishop and martyr who founded a Benedictine monastery on the site in the 8th century. Due to all the fixes and changes made over the centuries, the Basilica has resulted in a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Rococo. The two tall towers and an ornate Baroque façade will catch your eye from the outside of St Emmeram’s. The inside is decorated with beautiful frescoes, stucco work, and sculptures.

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The crypt in the Basilica, which contains the tombs of St. Emmeram and several other saints and bishops, features beautiful Romanesque and Gothic architecture, including a series of frescoes depicting scenes from the life of St. Emmeram. The basilica is also a venue for concerts and other cultural events, and the annual St. Emmeram's Fair, one of the oldest fairs in Germany, takes place in the Basilica's courtyard every September.

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Places to Stay:

Budget Friendly - Hotel Kaiserhof am Dom

Hotel Kaiserhof am Dom is 30 yards from Cathedral Regensburg, 900 yards from Regensburg Central Station and 550 yards from Thurn und Taxis Palace. Each room includes a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.

Mid-Range - L'Ostello Altstadthotel

L'Ostello Altstadthotel combines local Regensburg flair and Italian charm. The hotel is very close to the Maximilianstraße shopping street and is just a 5-minute walk from Regensburg Cathedral.

Luxury - Restaurant Dicker Mann Hotel zum Blauen Krebs

The Hotel is centrally located. It is around 750 yards from Cathedral Regensburg, 0.7 miles from Regensburg Central Station and 350 yards from Bismarckplatz Regensburg. Every room has a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Restaurant Dicker Mann Hotel zum Blauen Krebs is also close to the Old Stone Bridge, Thurn und Taxis Palace and Stadtamhof.

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Day 5: Nuremberg

Nuremberg dates back to the medieval period, features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and is surrounded by an extensive city wall. The holiday season is a very festive time to visit Nuremberg due to the many Christmas markets that occur. Take a load off and see the sights by taking a Nuremberg day trip from Munich by train!

Nuremberg has a powerful history and is most well-known as the site of the Nuremberg Trials, which took place after World War II and marked a significant turning point in the way international law and human rights were perceived. Today, the city is home to several museums and memorials that commemorate this important chapter in history, including the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, which provides a comprehensive overview of the events that took place in Nuremberg during this time.

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Local Places to Eat:

• Zum Albrecht Dürer Haus is set in a half-timbered building with strong Franconian cuisine like schäufele pork shoulder & bratwurst.
• Albrecht-Dürer-Stube serves delicious Franconian fare in a charming old-school setting.
• Alte Küch'n & Im Keller is an elaborate, old-fashioned German experience you’ll never forget. Set in a medieval cellar with traditional German food and performances by costumed musicians you might want to stay forever!

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Nuremberg Castle

Originally built as a fortification in the 11th century, Nuremberg Castle has since been restored and renovated into the spectacular medieval castle it is today. The Castle is mostly Gothic-style architecture but also has Romanesque and Renaissance elements. Nuremberg Castle consists of several buildings and structures like the Burgrave’s Castle, the Imperial Castle, and the Sinwell Tower.

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The Imperial Castle is the oldest structure in Nuremberg Castle as it was built in the 11th century as a royal palace for the Salian dynasty. It then served as a residence for the Holy Roman Emperors until the 16th century.

The Burgrave’s Castle was renovated in the Renaissance style, and it served as the home of the city's rulers. The castle’s large courtyard, chapel, hall with a magnificent wooden ceiling will keep you mesmerised.

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Finally, the Sinwell Tower, aka the Double Chapel, is a cylindrical tower built in the 13th century. Its purpose was to be a watchtower and a defensive structure. Fast forward to the 16th century and the tower was turned into a double chapel, with one chapel on top of the other.

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The Castle also played an important role in history as it was the site of events like the Imperial Diet of 1356, and it was where the Golden Bull was signed, which established the rules for the election of the Holy Roman Emperor. Today, visitors can explore the Castle and admire the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

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Germanic National Museum

Also known as the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, the Museum is dedicated to the art and cultural history of German-speaking regions. Today, the Museum has over 1.3 million objects in its collection. Yup, you read that right, 1.3 million. The collection includes sculptures, paintings, textiles, artefacts, furniture, musical instruments, and more. The Germanic National Museum is able to cover a wide range of topics like music, science, art, technology, and everyday life, since its collections are organised thematically.

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The medieval and Renaissance periods are a major focus in the Museum, and it features many impressive works of art from these periods. The Tucher Altar is one of the Museum’s most famous exhibits, which is a 15th-century late Gothic altarpiece with intricate carving and vivid colour. It is thought to be one of the most important examples of late medieval art in Germany. Along with the permanent exhibits, the Museum holds temporary exhibitions throughout the year which showcases a wide range of German culture, art, and history.

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St Lawrence's Church

Locally known as St Lorenz in German, this church is considered a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with towering twin spires that rise to a height of 81 metres (265 feet) ornately decorated with intricate tracery and delicate stone carvings. The church was founded in the 13th century and was originally a Romanesque basilica. The inside of St Lawrence’s church is just as exquisite on the inside with intricate frescoes, stone carvings, and stained glass windows.

The ‘Angelic Salutation’ altarpiece by 15th-century sculptor Veit Stoss is one of the most striking pieces of art in the Church. It features a series of carved and painted scenes depicting the life of the Virgin Mary. The Church has played an important part in the history of Nuremberg and was the site of historical events like the signing of the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which ended the Thirty Years' War.

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Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds

The Nazi Party Rally Grounds were built in the 1930s to accommodate large-scale rallies and events for the Nazi Party. It was originally intended to be a massive complex of buildings and open spaces, but it was never completed. However, Adolf Hitler performed many of his speeches there and it remained an important symbol of Nazi propaganda and power.

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Today, the Center is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the Nazi Party and the events that took place on the rally grounds. There are a variety of exhibits and collections that include photographs, documents, and artefacts from the time of the Nazis. There are also multimedia displays and interactive exhibits to provide a deeper understanding.

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Visitors can explore the site of the Rally Grounds and view the remaining architectural features of the original complex, including the Congress Hall and the Zeppelin Grandstand. You can also take a guided tour of the grounds and surrounding area, to get full insight on the history of the Grounds.

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Frauenkirche

‍‍‍ Also called the Church of Our Lady, Frauenkirche is a famous church in Nuremberg. The Church has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries. During World War II, the church was heavily damaged by Allied bombing, and it took many years to restore it to its former glory. Today, the Church of Our Lady stands as a religious and cultural centre in Nuremberg. Regular religious services are held and the Church also hosts many concerts and cultural events throughout the year.

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Inside of the Church there is a spacious nave, intricate stained glass windows, and a number of important works of art. One piece of art is the crucifix by the famous Nuremberg sculptor Adam Kraft. Visitors can climb the towers for a stunning panoramic view of the city.

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Toy Museum Nuremberg

The Toy Museum Nuremberg is set in a gorgeous historic building and has a collection of over 80,000 toys, games, and other playthings from around the world, from centuries ago to today. The exhibits cover multiple topics including dolls, trains, cars, board games, and many other types of toys.

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Nuremberg has been a centre of toy production since the Middle Ages, and one of the exhibits in the Museum is dedicated to the collection of toys from the Nuremberg area. There are also a number of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, so you or your kid can play with some of the toys and games on display.

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The exhibits are spread out over several floors, and each floor is dedicated to a different type of toy or game. There’s also a gift shop where visitors can purchase toys and souvenirs related to the exhibits. Satisfy your inner child and visit the Toy Museum.

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Places to Stay:

Budget Friendly - Hotel Hauser Boutique

A perfect central location, Hotel Hauser Boutique is a 10-minute walk to Nuremberg Castle. There is a selection of restaurants within a 5-minute walk of the accommodation. Hauptmarkt, the main market square in Nuremberg is 650 yards from the hotel while Nuremberg Zoo is 3.7 miles away. Be at the Nuremberg Main Train Station in 15 minutes by walking. Each of the cosy rooms at Hotel Hauser Boutique features a flat-screen TV, minibar and private bathroom.

Mid-Range - Art & Business Hotel

The Art & Business Hotel is just 350 yards from Nuremberg Train Station. The Hauptbahnhof Underground Station is less than 100 yards from the hotel. A large breakfast buffet with homemade specialities is served each morning at the hotel. During the evenings, the bar offers international cocktails.

Luxury - Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg

The Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg is located in the heart of Nuremberg’s Old Town district. The modern rooms at Sorat Hotel Saxx Nürnberg are individually furnished with air-conditioning and include a flat-screen TV and private bathroom. The hotel is a 650 yards walk from Nuremberg Castle along the cobbled streets of the beautiful Old Town. The historic Schöner Brunner fountain is just 10 yards from the hotel. Nuremberg Main Station is a 15-minute walk from the hotel.

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