Between nature, heritage and architecture, Bavaria is a region (or rather a Land) of incredible richness. You'll need at least 4 days to see its most beautiful treasures, but a whole week probably wouldn't be too much. From Munich to Nuremberg, passing through castles with marvellous scenery, many surprises await you. Petit Futé guides you to the best things to do in Bavaria in 4 days.
Day 1: What to do in Bavaria in 4 days? Visit the capital, Munich, and Nymphenburg Palace
Let's start with one of Bavaria's must-sees in 4 days: its capital. Munich is a great starting point for your getaway, thanks to its airport.
Morning: Visit downtown Munich
Every step you take in Munich' s city center is an opportunity to make new discoveries. TheAsamkirche, a rococo church like no other, is a prime example! Fans of exciting museums can then continue on to the Deutsches Museum, with its display of satellites, aircraft and rockets. Young and old alike will leave with their heads in the stars!
Of course, Marienplatz is another must-see in Munich, with its superb neo-Gothic town hall and famous carillon. Don't hesitate to climb the tower for a splendid view of the city.
Are you more of a shopping enthusiast? Visit Kaufingerstraße, one of Munich's oldest streets. While you're here, you can also admire (or even visit) the Frauenkirche, a huge cathedral in the heart of the city. In short, every step is a wonderful discovery. From historic buildings to museums and period buildings, there's something to marvel at around every corner.
To book: We recommend this 3-hour guided bike tour through Munich, taking in the city's most beautiful sights.
Related articlewhat to do and see in Munich in 2 or 3 days Itinerary tips for 2025
Afternoon: Munich Suite and Nymphenburg Palace
Munich is so exciting that one morning won't be enough. So devote part of your afternoon to exploring this extraordinary city. However, plan to leave at 3 p.m. at the latest, as it will take you 2-3 hours to visit the next site: Nymphenburg Palace nymphenburg Palace. Here, allow around 1 hour to visit the castle and the Stables Museum, then another 1-2 hours for the park.
To book: take advantage of our partner's special rates by booking your your ticket to Nymphenburg Palace.
This former summer residence of the Wittelsbach family is adorned with sumptuous frescoes, rococo decor and ornate salons: a superb glimpse into the royal life of yesteryear! The vast English gardens cover no less than 800,000 m². From the landscaped paths to the Amalienburg - a rococo pavilion - the visit is as beautiful as it is surprising. The icing on the cake is undoubtedly the carriage museum, housed in the former stables. On display are the exceptional carriages used by the royal family.
Good to know: oktoberfest, Munich's beer festival, is one of the must-see European events of the year.
Day 2: What to do in Bavaria in 4 days? Neuschwanstein Castle, Füssen, Linderhof Castle and Augsburg
The tour continues west of Munich, between city and castle.
Morning: Neuschwanstein Castle and Füssen
A magnificent nugget of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein neuschwanstein Castle was built under Ludwig II of Bavaria. A veritable fairy-tale evocation, it's one of the most beautiful castles in the world, so don't hesitate! From the top of its white towers, it dominates a beautiful Alpine landscape, surrounded by lush vegetation. Inspired by both Germanic legends and Wagner's operas, its interior is richly decorated, making for a beautiful visit. During the Second World War, it served as a repository for works of art looted by the Nazis. But good news: some of them were found in 1945!
Petit Futé tip: It's easiest to book this day trip to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Palace from Munich. This is the most popular option with travelers, as it combines a visit to these two fairytale castles.
Good to know: Book your admission ticket early, as guided tours are only available in groups of 30. 30 minutes is a short time to visit this treasure of the past.
After the tour, it's on to Füssen, an essential stop on the local Romantic Road. Surrounded by the Alps, Füssen boasts a rich historic center littered with medieval alleyways and colorful houses: a real treasure to be discovered without moderation!
Füssen's "high castle" offers a breathtaking view of the Forggensee lake. Inside, you can admire Bavarian paintings and a large weapons room.
Good to know: the Romantic Road is one of the best road trips in Europe. It's the perfect way for couples to spend a few weeks exploring Bavaria and the surrounding region!
Afternoon: Linderhof Castle and Augsburg
A white castle surrounded by greenery, in front of which magnificent gardens are reflected on the surface of a vast expanse of shimmering water... That's the setting for the superb linderhof Palacea must-see at least once in your life. Known as the favorite hideaway of Ludwig II of Bavaria, this small castle bears witness to the king's admiration for Louis XIV. The interior is adorned with scenes from the court of Versailles and portraits of French courtiers.
After this quick 25-minute guided tour, drive to Augsburg, about 1h30 away. I promise, it's well worth it, as this is one of Germany's most fascinating historic cities! From period houses to sumptuous fountains, the cathedral with its thousand-year-old bronze doors and the basilicas of St. Ulrich and St. Afra, the visit is a pure marvel.
Good to know:in Augsburg,you can visit the Mozart House, where the famous composer's father was born. A festival in his honor is also held every year.
Day 3: What to do in Bavaria in 4 days? Nördlingen, Railway Museum, Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Würzburg
It's time to head north to Bavaria, to discover new treasures.
Morning: Nördlingen and Railway Museum
Unusual: Nördlingen was built on a meteorite impact crater formed 15 million years ago! It's still possible to walk along its perfectly preserved ramparts. We also invite you to climb the 90-meter high bell tower of theGothic church of St. George, for an exceptional view of the surrounding landscape. Interested in history? Then head for the Rieskrater-Museum, a geological museum dedicated to the formation of craters, including the local one.
The morning continues at the Bavarian Railway Museum, a must-see for train and history buffs. Comfortably housed in Nördlingen's former locomotive depot, this astonishing museum exhibits over 200 original vehicles, including working steam locomotives. If you're visiting Bavaria as a family, be warned: the kids will love it! Special events and excursions aboard historic trains are regularly organized.
Afternoon: Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Würzburg
Top-rated tour: We recommend booking this private walking tour of the old town Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Continue on to the old town of Rothenburg ob der Taubera veritable open-air museum where the Middle Ages seem frozen in time. Your steps will lead you to 1001 treasures throughout the town: charming alleyways, towers, fountains and fortified gates immerse you in a unique atmosphere.
Good to know: Rothenburg ob der Tauber is home to an unusual and magical place : Käthe Wohlfahrt's Christmas village, Europe's largest Christmas store, open all year round. Pure enchantment, and a must-see in Bavaria with children!
The day ends in Würzburg, a pretty Baroque town with Mediterranean charm. One of its highlights is the Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece surrounded by magnificent gardens. From the Marienberg fortress that dominates the city to the old bridge over the Main decorated with sacred statues, the visit is as picturesque as it gets and has plenty of charm. And don't miss St. Kilian's Cathedral, a jewel of Romanesque architecture. Nestled between vineyards and the banks of the River Main, the city offers an idyllic setting to end your day with 100% Instagrammable photos!
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Day 4: What to do in Bavaria in 4 days? Bamberg and Nuremberg
Nuremberg is the perfect place to end your stay, as it has a new airport. If you prefer to fly into Munich, you'll need to make an extra 2-hour journey.
Morning: Bamberg, Bavarian charm
A real favorite! Bambergbamberg, a delightful UNESCO World Heritage Site, guides you from alley to alley, all lined with half-timbered houses. The Little Venice district, along the Regnitz river, is one of the most beautiful places to discover during your stay. In the heart of this charming group of fishermen's houses, you'll be delighted to plunge into a unique atmosphere in an enchanting setting to simply stroll around.
To book : Discover the city of Bamberg and feel the magic of the past by booking this guided tour that takes you through winding streets, picturesque churches and half-timbered houses.
In the island city, visit Bamberg Cathedral, an architectural splendor combining Romanesque and Gothic art, where the tombs of Emperor Henry II and Pope Clement II bear witness to its historical importance.
The old Town Hall, perched on an artificial island in the middle of the river, is also well worth a visit. Its impressive baroque and rococo façade is a marvel to behold! Legend has it that the citizens had to create this island due to the lack of land granted by the bishop. Finally, don't hesitate to climb up to Altenburg Castle, perched on a hill. An exceptional panoramic view of Bamberg and the surrounding area awaits you.
Afternoon: Nuremberg, history and heritage
Your 4-day stay in Bavaria comes to an end in Nurembergfamous for hosting the post-World War II trials of the main Nazi criminals. A memorial has been erected in the city to help you remember. One of its highlights is the imperial castle, Kaiserburg, a 12th-century fortress that dominates the city and can be visited for a small fee. Then it's back down to the old town to explore its richly decorated churches, fountains and Tucher Castle. So many pretty testimonies to the town's medieval past!
To book: this guided walking tour of Nuremberg's Old Town will introduce you to the city's history and its must-see places.
It's time for a dip into modern history with a bit of memory tourism, with a visit to the Documentation Center at the Nazi Party Congress Site, a landmark that illustrates Nazi propaganda and mass gatherings.
Art lovers will appreciate the German National Museum. The largest cultural history museum in Germany, over a million exhibits trace the country's artistic and historical development!
Travelling in winter? You're in luck: the Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg's famous Christmas market, is a pure marvel!
The article to read: Top 19 of Europe's most beautiful Christmas markets
If Munich is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, the rest of Bavaria is also well worth a visit. Neuschwanstein Castle, one of Europe's most beautiful castles, is the best proof of this. Do you prefer nature trips? In southern Bavaria, you'll find idyllic spots like Lake Chiemsee and Lake Königssee. Bavaria is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Germany, so don't hesitate to take your time!
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