Bavaria

Alpsee is a seriously gorgeous lake tucked away in southern Germany, right in the heart of Bavaria’s Ostallgäu District. It’s not huge—just about one square kilometer—but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in pure, unspoiled beauty. The lake is surrounded by heavily wooded hills, and the five kilometers of shoreline are perfect for a peaceful day outdoors.

You can rent a boat and paddle around while taking in views of wild swans, thick green forests, and even distant castles—yep, real-life castles. If you’d rather stay on land, there are plenty of scenic hiking trails that loop around the lake, offering stunning glimpses of the Bavarian Alps. Whether you’re up for an adventure or just want to kick back and soak in the scenery, Alpsee is a total gem.

Highlights:

• Gorgeous lake surrounded by forested hills and mountain views
• Boat rentals available for a peaceful paddle on the water
• Look out for wild swans and distant views of historic castles
• Several hiking trails with picture-perfect Alpine scenery
• Great for outdoor recreation or a laid-back nature escape

Alpsee, Landsberger Strabe 81, Inning/Stegen, Germany, Phone: +49-08-14-39-30-40

The BMW Museum is a must-visit for car lovers, design buffs, and anyone curious about one of Germany’s most iconic brands. Located right near Munich’s Olympic Stadium and Olympiapark, this museum dives deep into the story behind BMW’s legendary vehicles and innovation over the decades.

BMW’s been preserving its history since way back in 1922, when it started displaying company souvenirs inside a room at its Munich plant. That humble collection has grown into today’s sleek, modern museum—complete with interactive exhibits and some seriously cool showrooms. Permanent exhibits include the House of Design, House of Technology, and House of the Series, each one offering a unique look into the brand’s evolution in style, engineering, and performance.

Highlights:

• Located near Munich’s Olympiapark and Olympic Stadium
• Explore BMW’s history, from early souvenirs to futuristic concept cars
• Permanent exhibits like the House of Design and House of Technology
• Great for car enthusiasts, families, and tech fans
• Interactive displays and sleek modern architecture

BMW Museum, AM Olympiapark 2, Munich, Germany, Phone: +49-08-91-25-01-60-01

For Photographers

Chiemsee, often called the “Bavarian Sea”, is the largest lake in Bavaria—and it totally lives up to its nickname. It’s a stunning place to unwind or explore, with gorgeous alpine views and a mix of history, nature, and water activities. The lake is home to three main islands: Herreninsel, Frauenchiemsee, and the small, uninhabited Krautinsel (aka “Cabbage Island”).

Herreninsel is where you’ll find a jaw-dropping, though unfinished, royal palace built in 1878 by King Ludwig II. It was meant to be a replica of Versailles, and even though it wasn’t completed, it’s still open for tours during the summer and is seriously worth a visit. You’ll also find scenic hiking trails all over the island, perfect for soaking in the peaceful landscape. Out on the lake, visitors can hop on boat tours, try sailing, kayaking, or just kick back with a little fishing—it’s a true Bavarian getaway.

Highlights:

• Known as the “Bavarian Sea” and largest lake in the region
• Home to historic Herrenchiemsee Palace built by King Ludwig II
• Explore hiking trails on Herreninsel with beautiful lake and mountain views
• Enjoy boat tours, sailing, kayaking, and fishing
• Visit the charming Frauenchiemsee island or peaceful Krautinsel

Chiemsee, Bernauer Strabe 5, Prien, Germany, Phone: +49-0-80-51-96-65-80

Neuschwanstein Castle is straight out of a fairy tale—literally. This jaw-dropping 19th-century palace sits high on a hill above the village of Hohenschwangau and is one of the most iconic sights in all of Germany. Built in Romanesque Revival style, it was originally meant to be the private escape of King Ludwig II, who was known for being a bit reclusive. These days, it’s a major tourist hotspot, attracting over a million visitors every year.

Aside from the dreamy architecture, Neuschwanstein offers some seriously epic views. From the castle, you can see Alpsee lake, the lush surrounding forests, and the nearby Pollat River, which winds past the castle and includes waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. Whether you’re touring the inside or just snapping photos from the outside, there’s a lot to explore—and even more to admire.

Highlights:

• One of Germany’s most famous castles and top tourist attractions
• Stunning Romanesque Revival architecture from the 1800s
• Built as a private retreat for King Ludwig II of Bavaria
• Panoramic views of Alpsee lake, forests, and mountain landscapes
• Pollat River adds extra charm with waterfalls and natural pools

Neuschwanstein Castle, Neuschwansteinstrabe 20, Schwangau, Germany, Phone: +49-0-83-62-93-08-30

Recommended Activities for Families

The Englischer Garten is Munich’s version of Central Park—but bigger, greener, and packed with charm. Set along the winding Isar River, this massive public park was created back in 1789 when Elector Carl Theodor decided the city needed more green space. A Brit named Benjamin Thompson helped bring it to life, and it was named after the style of English country parks, with open meadows, tree-lined paths, and a relaxed, natural vibe.

Today, Englischer Garten is one of the best places in Munich to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re up for a bike ride, jog, or leisurely stroll, the park’s 48.5-mile path network has you covered. Head to the small hill near the Monopteros (a Greek-style temple) for sweeping views of the city skyline—or just kick back and watch the surfers ride the standing wave in the Eisbach River. There’s always something cool happening here.

Highlights:

• One of the largest urban parks in the world—bigger than NYC’s Central Park
• Created in 1789 and inspired by English country gardens
• 48.5 miles of trails for walking, jogging, and cycling
• Panoramic views of Munich from the hilltop Monopteros
• Catch locals surfing the Eisbach or relaxing by the water

Englischer Garten, Marienplatz 8, Munich, Germany, Phone: +49-89-23-39-65-00

Herrenchiemsee is a royal gem sitting right in the middle of Chiemsee Lake on the island of Herreninsel in Bavaria. Originally home to a Benedictine monastery known as Herrenchiemsee Abbey (or the Old Palace), the complex later became a private residence for King Ludwig II, who used it as his base while overseeing construction of the nearby New Palace.

The New Palace was designed to rival Versailles—complete with all the extravagance and elegance you'd expect—but construction was never fully finished. Still, what stands today is nothing short of stunning. Visitors can explore both historic buildings on guided tours and take in the grandeur of the architecture and interiors. And for a fun bonus, you can even hop on a horse-drawn carriage between the palace and the boat pier—because why not lean into the royal fantasy?

Highlights:

• Located on Herreninsel, one of the islands in Chiemsee Lake
• Home to both the historic Old Palace (Abbey) and New Palace
• New Palace inspired by the grandeur of Versailles
• Guided tours reveal the life and vision of King Ludwig II
• Horse-carriage rides available for a scenic and fun experience

Herrenchiemsee, Chiemsee, Germany, Phone: +49-80-51-68-87-99

Hofbräuhaus am Platzl isn’t just a beer hall—it’s a full-on Bavarian experience with roots going all the way back to the 1500s. Located right in the heart of Munich, this iconic three-story beer hall is packed with history, energy, and nonstop good vibes. Each floor has its own character, and the whole place feels like one big, cheerful celebration of Bavarian culture.

The atmosphere is always buzzing—locals and travelers from around the world gather here to enjoy hearty Bavarian food, clink steins of beer, and soak in the traditional music and lively crowds. The building is also home to several historic rooms perfect for events, like the Braustüberl, Festsaal, Erkerzimmer, and Wappensaal. Whether you're here for a casual meal, a celebration, or just to say you’ve been, it’s a Munich must-do.

Highlights:

• World-famous 16th-century beer hall in central Munich
• Three floors of lively dining, drinking, and Bavarian atmosphere
• Historic rooms ideal for events, conferences, and celebrations
• Traditional food, music, and beer that flows all day long
• A go-to gathering spot for both locals and international visitors

Hofbräuhaus am Platzl, Platzl 9, Munich, Germany, Phone: +49-8-92-90-13-61-00