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Bavaria

Bavaria, a captivating region in southern Germany, enchants visitors with its stunning landscapes, historic castles, and rich traditions. In Munich, the vibrant regional capital, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of beer gardens, explore the grand architecture of Marienplatz, and visit world-class museums. The fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, nestled in the Bavarian Alps, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the imagination of King Ludwig II. Charming towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber enchant with their medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. The region’s picturesque lakes, such as Lake Chiemsee and Lake Königssee, provide serene escapes amid nature.

What you’ll love most about Bavaria

Explore the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, perched on a hilltop and said to have inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle
Stroll through Munich’s historic Marienplatz, home to the iconic Glockenspiel, bustling beer halls, and lively markets
Drive the scenic Romantic Road, passing through medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, with its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets
Hike through the Bavarian Alps, where breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and charming alpine villages await
Experience Oktoberfest in Munich, the world-famous festival celebrating Bavarian beer, music, and traditional lederhosen-clad revelry
Cruise along the Danube, stopping in historic cities like Regensburg, with its well-preserved medieval old town and stunning cathedral

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Munich’s weather patterns

Holiday Highlights

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

3℃J
5℃F
9℃M
14℃A
19℃M
22℃J
24℃J
24℃A
19℃S
14℃O
8℃N
4℃D

9J
8F
9M
9A
11M
12J
12J
11A
9S
8O
9N
10D

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

January

Winter grips Bavaria firmly. Ski resorts in the Bavarian Alps, like Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Berchtesgaden, are in full swing. Snow blankets Neuschwanstein Castle, adding to its fairytale feel. Expect crisp highs of around 0-2°C, with colder conditions in the mountains.

February

Still deep in winter, February is perfect for winter sports and spa retreats. Carnival celebrations, especially in Augsburg and Regensburg, add bursts of colour and fun. Snowfall remains frequent in rural and Alpine areas, while cities like Munich stay lively indoors.

March

Signs of spring appear in March. While mountain areas still see snow, cities begin to thaw. In Nuremberg, Würzburg, and Bamberg, cafés spill back into the streets. Temperatures hover around 7-10°C, and by late March, you’ll notice blossoming trees and longer days.

April

April is famously unpredictable - sunshine, showers, and even the occasional snowflake are possible. Still, it’s a beautiful time to explore Franconian wine country, where vineyards begin to green. The Romantic Road sees fewer tourists than in summer, making now a good time for peaceful castle visits.

May

Bavaria comes alive in May. The countryside blooms, beer gardens reopen, and locals celebrate Maifest with maypoles, music, and dancing. In Munich, the English Garden fills with sun-seekers. Expect pleasant highs in the mid-teens to low 20s°C.

June

Early summer is ideal for hiking in places like Tegernsee or the Allgäu Alps. Cultural events like the Richard Strauss Festival in Garmisch begin, and lakes such as Chiemsee become warm enough for swimming. June days often peak around 22-24°C.

July

Warm and festive, July is full of outdoor concerts, village fests, and lakeside relaxation. The Kaltenberg Knights’ Tournament (near Landsberg) transports visitors to medieval times. In Regensburg, the Jazz Weekend fills the old town with music. Daytime highs frequently reach 25°C or more.

August

The height of summer brings busy cities and countryside alike. Locals and tourists flock to Alpine lakes, beer gardens, and historic towns. Füssen and the Ammergau Alps offer cooler retreats from city heat. Temperatures can climb to 27°C, though mountain areas stay milder.

September

September is glorious in Bavaria. Clear skies and golden light mark the beginning of autumn. Oktoberfest begins mid-month in Munich, drawing millions with traditional dress, music, and beer. Vineyards turn golden in Franconia, and it’s a fine time for hiking. Daytime highs hover around 20°C.

October

Autumn colours reach their peak, especially in Bavarian Forest National Park and the Altmühltal Nature Park. The Auer Dult folk fair in Munich offers a local, less touristy experience. Cooler temperatures settle in, especially in the mountains - around 12°C in cities like Passau.

November

November is quieter. Mists wrap around castles and forests, creating a moody, romantic atmosphere. Snow may return to the highlands by late in the month. All Saints’ Day (Nov 1) brings solemn remembrance, while preparations for Christmas markets begin across the region.

December

Bavaria in December feels like a Christmas postcard. Traditional markets glow in towns like Nuremberg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and Augsburg. Snow is likely in the Alps, adding to the festive feel. Expect chilly highs around 2-4°C, and cosy up with Glühwein and roasted chestnuts.

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