1/12 Zugspitze/ Neuschwanstein Castle
Start with two classics: the Zugspitze, above, and Neuschwanstein Castle, below. It's no secret that both are among Bavaria's most famous attractions – but they definitely had to be included in this ranking. The Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bavarian landscape on clear days. Neuschwanstein Castle is pure postcard idyll, and its world-renowned status is well-deserved. A true fairytale castle.
2/12 Schrecksee
Schrecksee (1,813 m above sea level) in the Allgäu Alps is one of Bavaria's most beautiful lakes. However, the hike there is quite difficult (17 km, 7 hours of climbing time), making Schrecksee a recommended hidden gem. It is nestled in a valley surrounded by green meadows and steep mountains – a truly picturesque sight.
3/12 Weltenburger Enge Danube Gorge
The Danube Gorge, or Weltenburger Enge (English: Danube Gorge), is one of Bavaria's most breathtaking landscapes. It's located at the confluence of the Danube Valley in the Bavarian region of Kelheim. It's considered a nature reserve and geological site. The setting even evokes the "Pillars of the Kings" from the "Lord of the Rings" universe, where the characters sail past the majestic statues of the kings (at the end of the first film). It's recommended to experience the wonders of the Danube Gorge from the water, for example by boat or canoe.
4/12 Medieval houses on the rock (Tüchersfeld)
The village of Tüchersfeld is located in Franconian Switzerland, near Pottenstein. Its special feature: impressive rock formations towering over medieval houses. It's a sight that could be straight out of a fairy tale or fantasy novel.
5/12 Devil's Cave Pottensteiner Teufelshöhle
Pottensteiner Teufelshöhle is a spectacular stalactite cave, stretching three kilometers, making it the longest in Bavaria. Beyond that, you can marvel at impressive reconstructions of bear skeletons and other bony remains. If you're looking for a macabre attraction in Bavaria, you'll definitely find your money's worth here.
6/12 Höllentalklamm Canyon
The Höllentalklamm gorge is equally exciting. Hiking through this stunning natural wonder is on everyone's bucket list. The trail winds through a deep gorge, along the Hammerbach River, and over bridges that stretch from one boulder to another. Höllentalklamm in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is open from May to October – definitely worth a visit.
7/12 Würzburger Residenz
The Würzburger Residenz has been compared to the Palace of Versailles near Paris, and for good reason. This breathtaking castle is like something out of a fairytale, and its expansive castle park is free to visit. It's also a legitimate World Heritage Site. Inside, the palace boasts exquisite Baroque ceiling frescoes and a grand hall adorned with mirrors and polished chandeliers.
8/12 Röthbachfall
Röthbach Falls near Lake Königsee in the Berchtesgaden region is Germany's largest waterfall. It rises 470 meters and nestles in a beautiful valley. Surprisingly, this natural wonder is virtually unknown, attracting nothing but tourists. However, the hike to Röthbach Falls is no easy task. After a boat ride across Lake Königsee, you'll need to hike three kilometers.
9/12 The Four Great Cities of Bavaria
These cities shouldn't be left out of this list of Bavarian attractions. Here, we'll look at the state capital, Munich (top left), the imperial city of Nuremberg (top right), the World Heritage city of Regensburg (bottom left), and the medieval wonder of Rothenburg (bottom right). Of course, there are many other cities worth seeing in Bavaria – but these four are definitely worth visiting.
10/12 Hohenbogen
Hohenbogen is a mountain ridge near Cham in the Bavarian Forest. It offers several attractions: In addition to the breathtaking views from the ridge, you can explore the mountain landscape by cable car. A particular highlight is the old NATO towers located at the ridge's highest point, the Schwarzriegel. A staircase leads to the protected main tower, allowing you to climb it and enjoy the magnificent views of the surrounding area.
11/12 Baumwipfelpfad Treetop Trail
The Baumwipfelpfad, a treetop path in the Bavarian Forest, offers spectacular walking opportunities. As the name suggests, it allows visitors to explore the Bavarian Forest at treetop level. The observation tower is barrier-free, making it even accessible to wheelchair users and parents with strollers.
12/12 Walhalla
Walhalla, located near Regensburg, is one of the most important national monuments of the 19th century. Built in 1842 by King Ludwig I, it features busts of generals, rulers, scientists, and artists. From the temple, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Upper Palatinate.
