Bavaria is Germany’s south-western region, bordered by the Czech Republic and Austria. From major cities like Munich, to World War II history in Nuremberg, and natural wonders like Konigssee, Bavaria has a lot to offer. Enjoy the sights of this pretty area of Germany with this 1 week in Bavaria road trip itinerary.
Germany Road Trip Ideas for Bavaria
Taking in highlights of the Romantic Road, one of Germany’s most picturesque road trips; alongside WWII history and spectacular lakes and castles, this Bavarian road trip has something for everyone. Historic cities, grand buildings, fairytale castles, military history and lots of delicious food to try!
We love road tripping through Europe, and Bavaria offers some fantastic sights, very achievable in one week in the area.
Würzburg
At the northern edge of Bavaria, Würzburg is a must-visit with its UNESCO-listed Residenz Palace, and lush vineyards along the Main River.
Things to do:
- Würzburg Residence (Residenz)
- Alte Mainbrücke (Old Main Bridge)
- Festung Marienberg (Marienberg Fortress)
- Würzburg Cathedral (St. Kilian’s Cathedral)
- Market Square (Marktplatz)
- Vineyard Tours
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Backöfele: A traditional Franconian restaurant with authentic regional dishes and a rustic ambiance.
- Bürgerspital Weinstuben: Located within a historic wine estate, this restaurant offers classic local cuisine paired with their own wines.
WHERE TO STAY IN WÜRZBURG: Luxury: Schlosshotel Steinburg; Mid-range: Hotel Alter Kranen; Family: DAS v EVERT Hotel – am Congress Centrum Würzburg
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
One of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, Rothenburg features charming half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and historic city walls.
Things to do in Rothenburg:
- Walk the Town Walls
- Visit Plönlein (pictured street)
- Explore the Market Square and Town Hall
- Medieval Crime Museum
- Relax in the Castle Garden
- Attend the Night Watchman Tour
- Visit St. Jacob’s Church
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Zur Höll: Enjoy a meal in one of the oldest buildings in Rothenburg, offering traditional Franconian cuisine in a cozy, historic setting.
- Altfränkische Weinstube: Authentic regional dishes in a charming wine tavern with a rustic ambiance.
WHERE TO STAY IN ROTHENBURG: Luxury: Hotel BurgGartenpalais; Mid-range: Hotel Rappen Rothenburg ob der Tauber; Family: Hotel-Gasthof Goldener Greifen.
Neuschwanstein Castle & Füssen
The iconic fairytale castle that inspired Disney, Neuschwanstein sits near the charming town of Füssen. Nearby, Hohenschwangau Castle and the scenic Alpsee Lake make it an ideal road trip stop.
Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century as a tribute to composer Richard Wagner and as a personal retreat. Despite its medieval appearance, the castle features modern innovations of its time, including running water and a central heating system. It was never fully completed, because Ludwig died before its construction was finished.
It’s best to reserve tickets in advance due to high demand, especially in the summer. The surrounding area also offers hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, including Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge), which provides panoramic views of the castle and the surrounding valley.
The Eagle’s Nest & Königssee
A stunning alpine region, Berchtesgaden is home to the Eagle’s Nest, a historic mountaintop retreat. Nearby Königssee (King’s Lake) is one of Germany’s most beautiful lakes, perfect for boat trips and hiking.
We stopped by King’s Lake and did the hike to Over Lake (Obersee) during a road trip across Austria.
We then visited the Eagle’s Nest (alongside Munich and Dachau) on our WWII tour of Europe.
Stay: at the Almhotel Grünsteinblick after a day of adventures on the lake!
Munich & Dachau
Bavaria’s capital is famous for its Oktoberfest and beer gardens. Explore WWII history here, from historic sites to the sombre but educational Dachau concentration camp.
Things to do in Munich:
- Marienplatz & New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)
- English Garden (Englischer Garten)
- Nymphenburg Palace
- Deutsches Museum
- BMW Welt & Museum
- Viktualienmarkt
- Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site (30 mins by train)
Restaurants to try:
- Andechser am Dom: Traditional Bavarian fare in a beer hall atmosphere, just steps from Frauenkirche.
- Wirtshaus in der Au: Known for their giant dumplings and excellent roast pork—great local vibe and family-friendly.
WHERE TO STAY IN MUNICH: Luxury: Mandarin Oriental; Mid-range: Hotel Torbräu; Family: Motel One München-Deutsches Museum.
Regensburg
A UNESCO-listed city on the Danube River, Regensburg boasts a beautifully preserved medieval old town.
Things to do in Regensburg:
- St. Peter’s Cathedral (Dom St. Peter)
- Old Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke)
- Regensburg Old Town (Altstadt)
- Thurn und Taxis Palace
- Walhalla Memorial (20-minute drive)
- Museum of Bavarian History
Restaurant Recommendations:
- Historische Wurstkuchl: Iconic sausage kitchen by the river, serving grilled bratwurst with sauerkraut and sweet mustard since the 1100s.
- Alte Wurstkuchl zum Goldenen Kreuz: Traditional Bavarian cuisine – try the roast pork or schnitzel with dumplings.
WHERE TO STAY IN REGENSBURG: Luxury: Hotel Goliath am Dom; Mid-range: Hotel Münchner Hof und Blauer Turm; Family: Holiday Inn Express Regensburg.
Nuremberg
Known for its medieval old town, impressive castle, and WWII history, Nuremberg is a sobering, but important place to visit. Explore Kaiserburg Castle, the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and the Nuremberg Trials Memorial. The city’s Christmas Market is one of the most famous in the world.
Restaurant recommendations:
- Essigbrätlein: A Michelin-starred gem tucked into the Old Town, known for creative seasonal tasting menus that highlight regional ingredients.
- Albrecht-Dürer-Stube: Serving classics like Nürnberger sausages, pork shoulder, and sauerkraut.
1 Week in Bavaria – Germany Road Trip
From exploring the vibrant streets of Munich and walking through medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, to learning about the region’s WWII past in Nuremberg and relaxing by alpine lakes near Berchtesgaden, these Bavarian road trip stops are diverse and will keep the whole family interested.
Whether you’re into castles, local cuisine, or scenic drives through the Bavarian Alps, this itinerary provides a well-rounded introduction to one of Germany’s most picturesque regions.
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