Things to Do in Bavarian Alps, Germany

The Bavarian Alps stretch across southern Germany along the Austrian border, offering some of Europe's most spectacular mountain scenery and authentic Alpine culture. This breathtaking region combines dramatic peaks like the Zugspitze (Germany's highest mountain), pristine lakes such as Königssee and Chiemsee, and charming villages that seem straight out of a fairy tale. From the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle to traditional beer gardens nestled in mountain valleys, the Bavarian Alps perfectly blend natural wonder with rich cultural heritage. The region serves as a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and Christmas markets, while summer brings hiking trails through flower-filled meadows, crystal-clear mountain lakes ideal for swimming, and countless opportunities to experience authentic Bavarian hospitality. Whether you're seeking adventure on mountain peaks, relaxation in thermal spas, or immersion in centuries-old traditions, the Bavarian Alps offer an unforgettable Alpine experience.

Top Things to Do in Bavarian Alps

Castle Tours

Visit the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop above the village of Hohenschwangau. The castle's ornate interior rooms showcase King Ludwig II's romantic vision, while the surrounding landscape offers breathtaking views of lakes and mountains. Combine your visit with nearby Hohenschwangau Castle for a complete royal experience.

Booking Tip: Book tickets online in advance (€15-23) as daily visitor numbers are limited and tours often sell out weeks ahead. Early morning or late afternoon slots offer the best lighting for photos and smaller crowds. Choose combination tickets for both castles to save money.

Alpine Hiking

Explore hundreds of well-marked trails ranging from gentle lakeside walks to challenging summit climbs, including paths around the pristine Königssee or up to mountain huts serving traditional Alpine fare. The region offers everything from family-friendly nature walks through wildflower meadows to multi-day hut-to-hut treks for experienced hikers. Cable cars and cogwheel trains provide easy access to high-altitude starting points.

Booking Tip: Visit local tourist offices for free detailed trail maps and current conditions. Cable car day passes cost €20-40 and provide access to multiple trail networks. Book mountain hut accommodations (€25-45/night) well in advance for multi-day treks, especially during summer months.

Zugspitze Summit Experience

Ascend Germany's highest peak at 2,962 meters via cogwheel train and cable car for panoramic views across four countries. The journey itself is spectacular, passing through tunnels carved into the mountain and offering glimpses of glaciers and alpine landscapes. At the summit, enjoy restaurants, viewing platforms, and even a small glacier ski area open year-round.

Booking Tip: Day tickets cost €65-75 and include both train and cable car access. Weather can change rapidly, so check conditions before traveling and dress warmly even in summer. Early morning visits often offer clearer views before afternoon clouds roll in.

Traditional Beer Garden Experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Bavarian culture at traditional beer gardens nestled in Alpine settings, where locals gather under chestnut trees to enjoy fresh-brewed beer, hearty regional cuisine, and live folk music. Many beer gardens occupy scenic locations with mountain views and have been serving the community for centuries. Experience the famous Bavarian gemütlichkeit (coziness) while sampling local specialties like schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and obatzda (cheese spread).

Booking Tip: Most beer gardens don't require reservations and operate on a first-come basis, but larger groups should call ahead. Prices are reasonable (€4-6 for beer, €8-15 for meals). Bring cash as many don't accept cards, and don't miss the traditional pretzels served with local mustard.

Alpine Lake Activities

Discover pristine mountain lakes like Königssee, known for its emerald waters and famous echo demonstration, or Chiemsee with its island palaces and sailing opportunities. These crystal-clear lakes offer boat tours, swimming in designated areas, and waterfront hiking trails with spectacular mountain backdrops. Many lakes feature traditional wooden boats and offer seasonal activities from summer swimming to winter ice skating.

Booking Tip: Boat tours cost €15-25 and run frequently in summer but have limited winter schedules. Lake access is generally free, though parking fees apply (€3-8). Rent pedal boats or kayaks for €10-20/hour at larger lakes, and pack warm clothes as mountain lakes remain cool even in summer.

Getting There

Munich serves as the primary gateway to the Bavarian Alps, with its international airport connecting to destinations worldwide. From Munich, efficient train connections reach major Alpine towns like Garmisch-Partenkirchen (1.5 hours), Berchtesgaden (2.5 hours), and Füssen (2 hours). Rental cars provide maximum flexibility for exploring remote valleys and mountain villages, with well-maintained highways and scenic routes throughout the region. Regional buses connect smaller villages, while the Bayern-Ticket offers unlimited regional train travel for groups at discounted rates.

Getting Around

A combination of regional trains, buses, and cable cars provides excellent public transportation throughout the Bavarian Alps, with integrated ticketing systems covering multiple operators. The comprehensive bus network reaches even remote mountain villages, while cable cars and cogwheel trains access high-altitude destinations. Renting a car offers the greatest flexibility for exploring at your own pace, though parking can be limited and expensive in popular tourist areas. Many hotels provide guest cards offering free or discounted local transportation, making car-free exploration both economical and environmentally friendly.

Where to Stay

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Füssen

Berchtesgaden

Bad Reichenhall

Oberammergau

Mittenwald

Food & Dining

Bavarian Alps cuisine centers around hearty mountain fare featuring locally sourced ingredients like Alpine cheeses, wild game, and fresh trout from mountain streams. Traditional restaurants serve classics like sauerbraten, spätzle, and kaiserschmarrn in cozy, wood-paneled dining rooms with mountain views. Mountain huts (Almhütten) offer authentic experiences with simple but delicious meals like goulash soup and apple strudel, often accompanied by stunning panoramic vistas. Don't miss trying regional specialties like Leberkäse, Weisswurst with sweet mustard, and locally brewed Weissbier, best enjoyed in traditional beer gardens under chestnut trees.

When to Visit

The Bavarian Alps offer distinct seasonal experiences, with summer (June-September) providing ideal conditions for hiking, lake activities, and outdoor festivals, though this is also the busiest and most expensive period. Winter (December-March) transforms the region into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and magical Christmas markets, with reliable snow cover and festive atmosphere. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November) offer fewer crowds, lower prices, and unique seasonal beauty, though weather can be unpredictable and some high-altitude attractions may have limited hours or seasonal closures.

Insider Tips

Purchase a Königscard or similar regional guest card from your accommodation for free public transportation and discounts on attractions, potentially saving €50+ per person

Pack layers and waterproof clothing regardless of season, as Alpine weather can change rapidly and temperatures drop significantly with altitude

Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service (2-5 PM), so plan meal times accordingly or stock up on snacks from local bakeries

Things to Do in Bavarian Alps