Traditional Bavarian Villages which you have to visit

There is no doubt that Bavaria is one of the most beautiful regions in Germany.located in the southeastern part of Germany, is renowned for its picturesque villages, each offering unique charm and cultural heritage. Here are some must-visit traditional Bavarian villages that encapsulate the essence of this region.

If you want to make use of your 49€ ticket and explore some of the quaint villages in Germany in the region of Bavaria then this post will inspire you to visit some.

1. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This medieval town is known for its well-preserved architecture and historical significance. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. Highlights include the Town Hall Tower, St. James’s Church, and the Medieval Crime Museum.

I have written a separate post about Rothenburg ob Der Tauber where I’ve talked in detail about what you can do in this beautiful village in Germany.

How to reach Rothenburg ob der Tauber

• Closest Major City: Nuremberg
• Public Transport: Travelers can take a train from Nuremberg to Ansbach and then transfer to a regional train or bus to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The total journey time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

2. Oberammergau

Famous for its Passion Play held every ten years, Oberammergau is also known for its beautifully painted Lüftlmalerei (frescoes) on houses and buildings. The town is set against a stunning alpine backdrop, making it a popular spot for both cultural experiences and outdoor activities.

How to reach Oberammergau

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Trains and buses run regularly from Munich to Oberammergau, with a travel time of about 1.5 to 2 hours. Visitors can also drive or take a scenic train journey through the Bavarian countryside.

3. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, this village is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts and hikers. It offers breathtaking views of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. The town is split into two parts: Garmisch, with its modern vibe, and Partenkirchen, which retains a more traditional feel.

How to reach Garmisch

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Direct trains operate from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses and regional trains also connect Munich and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

4. Schwangau

Home to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau attracts visitors from all over the world. The village itself offers beautiful lakes, such as Alpsee, and extensive hiking and biking trails. The nearby Hohenschwangau Castle also adds to its historical allure [4].

How to reach Schwangau

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Travelers can take a train from Munich to Füssen and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Schwangau. The total travel time is around 2.5 to 3 hours, including the transfer.

5. Berchtesgaden

Located near the Austrian border, Berchtesgaden is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Berchtesgaden National Park and the Königssee lake. The village has rich historical significance with sites like the Eagle’s Nest and the Salt Mine [5].

How to reach Berchtesgaden

• Closest Major City: Salzburg (Austria)
• Public Transport: From Salzburg, take a train to Berchtesgaden, with a journey time of approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Buses also run between Salzburg and Berchtesgaden for alternative transport.

6. Mittenwald

This village is famous for its violin-making tradition and picturesque landscapes. Surrounded by mountains, Mittenwald offers scenic hikes and ski slopes. The colorful houses and the Baroque church of St. Peter and Paul are notable attractions.

How to reach Mittenwald

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Trains operate from Munich to Mittenwald, with a travel time of about 1.5 to 2 hours. Visitors can also drive or take a bus from Munich to Mittenwald.

7. Bad Tölz

With its charming old town and spa facilities, Bad Tölz is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy traditional Bavarian culture. The Marktstraße, lined with historic buildings and shops, is a must-see.

How to reach Bad Tölz

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Direct trains run from Munich to Bad Tölz, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour. Buses and regional trains are also available for travel between Munich and Bad Tölz.

8. Dinkelsbühl

Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, Dinkelsbühl is a charming walled town with colorful houses and cobblestone streets. The Minster of St. George and the Rothenburger Tower are notable landmarks worth exploring. The town’s annual Kinderzeche festival, where children reenact the town’s rescue during the Thirty Years’ War, is a unique cultural experience.

How to reach Dinkelsbühl

• Closest Major City: Nuremberg
• Public Transport: Travelers can take a train from Nuremberg to Feuchtwangen, and then transfer to a bus or taxi to Dinkelsbühl. The total journey time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

9. Füssen

Situated along the Romantic Road, Füssen is a gateway to the Bavarian Alps and the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. The town’s picturesque Old Town features historic buildings, cozy cafes, and artisan shops. Visitors can also enjoy boat trips on the Forggensee lake or explore the nearby Hohes Schloss (High Castle).

How to reach Füssen

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Direct trains operate from Munich to Füssen, with a travel time of about 2.5 to 3 hours. Visitors can also drive or take a bus from Munich to Füssen to reach this village.

10. Murnau

Nestled between the Alps and the Staffelsee lake, Murnau is an artist’s paradise with a vibrant cultural scene. The town was home to the expressionist painter Wassily Kandinsky and features the Münter House museum showcasing his works. Murnau’s charming market square and surrounding countryside offer a peaceful retreat for visitors.

How to reach Murnau

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Trains run from Munich to Murnau, with a journey time of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Buses also connect Munich and Murnau for those preferring bus transport.

11. Passau

Known as the “City of Three Rivers” due to its unique location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, Passau is a picturesque town with Baroque architecture and a rich musical tradition. Highlights include St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Veste Oberhaus fortress, and the charming Old Town with its narrow alleys and historic buildings.

How to reach Passau

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Travelers can take a train from Munich to Passau, with a journey time of around 2 to 2.5 hours. Buses and regional trains are also available for transportation between Munich and Passau.

12. Burghausen

Home to the longest castle complex in the world, Burghausen is a historic town with stunning views of the Salzach River and the Austrian Alps. The medieval castle offers guided tours, while the Old Town’s colorful houses and lively market squares exude a quaint charm. The annual Burgfest (Castle Festival) celebrates the town’s history with medieval reenactments and cultural events.

How to reach Burghausen

• Closest Major City: Salzburg (Austria)
• Public Transport: From Salzburg, take a train to Burghausen, with a journey time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Buses also run between Salzburg and Burghausen for alternative transport options.

13. Chiemsee

Known as the “Bavarian Sea,” Lake Chiemsee is surrounded by picturesque villages like Prien am Chiemsee and Gstadt. Visitors can explore Herrenchiemsee Palace, built by King Ludwig II, or Fraueninsel, a tranquil island with a Benedictine convent. The region offers opportunities for water sports, cycling, and leisurely strolls along the lakeshore.

How to reach Chiemsee

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Trains operate from Munich to Prien am Chiemsee, with a travel time of about 1 to 1.5 hours. Visitors can also take a boat from various locations around Lake Chiemsee to reach the islands.

14. Ettal

Located in the Ammergau Alps, Ettal is famous for its Benedictine monastery, which dates back to the 14th century. The monastery features stunning Baroque architecture, a brewery known for its Ettaler beer, and a distillery producing herbal liqueurs. Visitors can attend services in the monastery church or hike in the surrounding Alpine landscape.

How to reach Ettal

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Trains and buses run from Munich to Oberammergau, and then visitors can take a short bus or taxi ride to Ettal. The total journey time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

15. Oberstdorf

Located in the Allgäu region, Oberstdorf is a charming village known for its outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and cycling. The Nebelhorn mountain offers panoramic views, while the Breitachklamm gorge provides a stunning natural spectacle. Visitors can also explore the Kurpark and enjoy spa treatments at local wellness centers [13].

How to reach Oberstdorf

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: From Munich, take a train to Immenstadt or Kempten, and then transfer to a regional train or bus to Oberstdorf. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

16. Erding

Famous for its thermal spa, Erding is a relaxing retreat just outside of Munich. The Erdinger Therme is one of the largest thermal baths in Europe, featuring various pools, slides, and saunas. The town also has a historic Old Town with traditional Bavarian architecture and a vibrant market square [14].

How to reach Erding?

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Direct trains run from Munich to Erding, with a journey time of around 45 minutes. Erding can also be reached by bus from Munich’s central bus station.

17. Ruhpolding

Surrounded by the Chiemgau Alps, Ruhpolding is a picturesque village known for its outdoor sports and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Rauschberg mountain, the Ruhpolding Biathlon Center, and the idyllic Lake Chiemsee. The village also hosts traditional events like the Almabtrieb (cattle drive) and the annual Christmas market [15].

How to reach Ruhpolding

• Closest Major City: Salzburg (Austria)
• Public Transport: From Salzburg, take a train to Traunstein, and then transfer to a bus or regional train to Ruhpolding. The total travel time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

18. Oberammergau

Renowned for its Passion Play, Oberammergau is also famous for its woodcarving tradition and colorful frescoes adorning buildings. The village hosts the Pilatushaus Museum showcasing local art and crafts. Visitors can hike to the nearby Ettal Abbey or explore the picturesque Ammer Gorge [2].

How to reach Oberammergau

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Trains and buses run regularly from Munich to Oberammergau, with a travel time of about 1.5 to 2 hours. Visitors can also drive or take a scenic train journey through the Bavarian countryside.

19. Miesbach

Located near the Mangfall River, Miesbach is a peaceful village with a rich history dating back to Roman times. The town’s Rathaus (town hall) and Stadtpfarrkirche St. Ägidius (parish church) are architectural gems worth visiting. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in the nearby Bavarian Alps or swimming in the Schliersee lake .

How to reach Miesbach

• Closest Major City: Munich
• Public Transport: Trains operate from Munich to Miesbach, with a journey time of around 1 hour. Alternatively, buses run between Munich and Miesbach for those preferring bus transport.

20. Oberaudorf

Situated along the Inn River, Oberaudorf is a scenic village known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The Hocheck mountain offers skiing and tobogganing in winter, while the Wendelstein mountain provides panoramic views of the Bavarian landscape. Visitors can also relax in the Kurpark or explore the historic Old Town.