City, Country, Culture

Traditional and modern: Discover the fascinating Bavarian mixture of lively-urban city life and historical cultural treasures on a discovery trip. Unique, magnificent, fascinating.

Bavaria is captivating thanks to the exciting contrast it makes between tradition and modernity – from opulent buildings to historical monuments through to contemporary art and hip festivals.

On your culture trip, you will experience Bavaria in its best light: Stroll through the picturesque old town of Regensburg, for example, or visit Bamberg Cathedral. Due to their well-maintained historical urban landscapes, both towns are classed as UNESCO world heritage sites.

The 45 state castles, fortresses and residences in Bavaria combine superb architecture with history: Visit the splendid buildings of King Ludwig II and his fairytale castle at Neuschwanstein or visit the longest castle complex in the world in Burghausen.

Bavaria is fascinating because of its traditions – and its contemporary way of life: Modern and popular festivals entice people from all countries to the free state. For example, the international jazz week in Burghausen or the Richard Wagner Festival in Bayreuth offer pure culture. Sun in your face and the mountains beyond you: At the Chiemsee Summer Festival you not only get to dance to reggae, pop and electro sounds, you are also very close to nature.

The twelve state museums of cultural and art history of Bavaria are also an attraction. They are some of the most important museums in the world– for example, the Neue and Alte Pinakothek (New and Old Picture Gallery), the Museum Brandhorst as well as the Germanische Nationalmuseum Nürnberg (Germanic National Museum of Nuremberg).

Towns and cities

Bavaria’s town’s and cities provide a range of unusual ways for visitors of all ages to explore their heritage, their rich past and the life in the city today. Experience the magic of Bavarian cities for a city break or a longer city route.

Museums and galleries

No other region in Germany has as many museums as Bavaria. However, it is not just the diversity of Bavaria’s museums that is impressive, but also the passion and imagination of their curators.

Churches and monasteries

The state's famed churches and other sacred buildings are still today important places of pilgrimage and witnesses to the deeply held faith of the people of Bavaria.

Palaces, Castles and Fortresses

In Bavaria you can find some of the most beautiful and breathtaking palaces, castles and fortresses.

Scenic Routes

The extensive network of themed or tourist routes links Bavaria's nature and cultural highlights providing visitors with a perfect route to the state's most beautiful and important sights.

UNESCO-world heritage sites in Bavaria

UNESCO World Heritage – seven historic sites in Bavaria are able to flaunt this title. They invite visitors to travel back in time on a fascinating journey to a multi-faceted past.

Traditions and Customs

We would like to give you deeper insight into Bavaria’s customs, lifestyle and traditions. In the following selection you can find out more about the traditional festivals and events that Bavaria offers for locals and visitors alike.