MUNICH & UPPER BAVARIA
Bavaria’s heart beats in the blend of Munich’s cosmopolitan flair and the Alpine majesty of Upper Bavaria. Experience royal history, vibrant beer culture, and stunning natural landscapes.
This region is the epitome of German tradition. It offers iconic sights, from fairytale castles and world-class museums to the highest peaks of the Bavarian Alps.
Munich
Most Popular Attractions
Munich City Core:
- Marienplatz & Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall): The city’s central square, home to the famous Neo-Gothic town hall with its elaborate Glockenspiel (chime and figure play).
- Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady): A landmark cathedral with distinctive twin onion-domed towers and a famous “Devil’s Footprint” legend inside.
- Munich Residenz: The former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs, the largest city palace in Germany, featuring opulent rooms and the grand Antiquarium.
- Peterskirche (St. Peter’s Church): Munich’s oldest parish church, affectionately called “Old Peter,” offering panoramic views from its tower.
- Hofbräuhaus am Platzl: The world’s most famous beer hall, a cornerstone of Bavarian beer culture and tradition.
- Viktualienmarkt: A bustling open-air market for gourmet food, fresh produce, and local specialties, with a popular beer garden.
- Asamkirche (St. Johann Nepomuk): A small, highly decorated Baroque church with an incredibly rich and intense interior design by the Asam brothers.
- Odeonsplatz: A grand square framed by neoclassical architecture, including the Theatine Church and the Feldherrnhalle monument.
- Hofgarten: A beautiful, formal Renaissance garden near the Residenz, a tranquil green space in the city center.
- Karlsplatz (Stachus): A large, bustling square on the edge of the pedestrian zone, known for its fountain and historic gate.
Museums & Arts District (Kunstareal):
- Alte Pinakothek: One of the world’s most important art galleries, housing masterworks by European painters from the 14th to 18th centuries.
- Pinakothek der Moderne: A vast museum complex covering modern and contemporary art, architecture, and design.
- Deutsches Museum: The world’s largest museum of science and technology, located on an island in the Isar River.
- Glyptothek: A museum dedicated to ancient Greek and Roman sculptures.
City Parks & Modern Sites:
- Englischer Garten (English Garden): One of the world’s largest urban public parks, famous for its Chinese Tower beer garden and river surfing at the Eisbachwelle.
- Olympiapark: The site of the 1972 Summer Olympics, featuring a distinctive tent-like roof and the Olympiaturm (Olympic Tower) with city views.
- Nymphenburg Palace: A magnificent Baroque palace, the former summer residence of the Bavarian rulers, with extensive park grounds and pavilions like Amalienburg.
- BMW Welt & Museum: A futuristic exhibition center and museum showcasing the history and future of the BMW automotive brand.
- Allianz Arena: The architecturally impressive, color-changing home stadium of FC Bayern Munich.
- Tierpark Hellabrunn: One of the first “geo-zoos” in the world, organizing animals by continent.
- Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site: A profound and solemn memorial to the victims of the first Nazi concentration camp, located just outside Munich.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Surf Lesson on the Eisbach Wave: Witness or even try to surf the famous standing wave on the Eisbach river in the Englischer Garten. It’s an iconic and uniquely Munich experience.
Go on a Beer Garden Tour: Experience authentic Bavarian social culture by visiting several of the city’s iconic beer gardens, from the vast Hirschgarten to the central Viktualienmarkt beer garden.
Attend a Bayern Munich Football Match: If visiting during the season, experience the electric atmosphere of a game at the Allianz Arena to see one of the world’s most successful football clubs.
Explore the Deutsches Museum: Spend a day at one of the world’s largest and oldest science and technology museums, featuring historical artifacts from aviation, mining, and physics.
Take a Bike Tour: Rent a bike and cycle along the Isar River or through the expansive Englischer Garten, which is larger than New York’s Central Park.
Visit a Traditional Brez’n (Pretzel) Bakery: Take a class or simply visit a traditional bakery to learn about and taste the perfect Bavarian pretzel.
Take a Day Trip to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial: Pay a respectful visit to the memorial site of the first Nazi concentration camp to reflect on a dark but important part of history.
Walk the Olympic Park (Olympiapark): Explore the innovative architectural legacy of the 1972 Summer Olympics. Climb the Olympiaturm for a panoramic view of the city and the Alps on a clear day.
Attend the Auer Dult Fair: If visiting at the right time (spring, summer, or autumn), experience this traditional, historic market fair with rides, antique stalls, and local food.
Go Shopping on the Kaufingerstrasse and Maximilianstrasse: Browse high-end boutiques and department stores on Munich’s premier shopping streets.
Take a Cooking Class for Bavarian Classics: Learn to prepare iconic dishes like Weisswurst (white sausage), Obatzda (cheese spread), or Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle).
Local Tips & Transport
The U-Bahn and S-Bahn are Your Lifeline: Munich has an excellent, comprehensive public transport network (MVV) consisting of the U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban train), trams, and buses. Most attractions are easily accessible this way.
Ticket System: The system is based on zones. If you are staying primarily in the city, the Inner District (Zone M) ticket is usually sufficient. Look into the IsarCard (weekly/monthly pass) or a Day Ticket (Tageskarte) if you plan to use public transport frequently. Validate your ticket before starting your journey—there are no barriers, but controls are frequent and fines are high.
Cycling is a Lifestyle: Munich is extremely bike-friendly. In addition to the public transport network, consider using one of the city’s many bike-sharing services. It’s often the fastest way to get around the center.
From the Airport: The S-Bahn lines S1 and S8 run frequently (every 10-20 minutes) and directly from Munich Airport (MUC) to the central Hauptbahnhof (main train station), taking about 40 minutes. Taxis are available but significantly more expensive.
The Beer Garden Rules: Bringing your own food (Brotzeit) to a beer garden is not just allowed—it’s traditional! However, you must buy your beer from the establishment. Order your beer in a traditional Maß (one-liter glass mug).
Punctuality is Paramount: Germans, and Bavarians in particular, value punctuality. Be on time for appointments, reservations, and tours.
The Ruhezeit (Quiet Time): Respect the quiet hours, especially in residential areas, which are often enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM and throughout the day on Sundays and public holidays. Avoid loud activities during these times.
Sunday Closures: Most shops, including supermarkets, are closed on Sundays in Bavaria, with only a few exceptions like shops in the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) or the airport. Plan your grocery shopping accordingly.
Hidden Gems:
- The Hofgarten: A beautiful, quiet, Italian-style Renaissance garden tucked behind the Residenz, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
- Asamkirche (Asam Church): A tiny, stunningly opulent Baroque church nestled right on a residential street that is a breathtaking contrast to its modest exterior.
- Viktualienmarkt: More than just a food market, this is a central hub for local life, offering an amazing array of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and a popular beer garden.
- Residenz: While the palace is a major sight, don’t miss the spectacular Antiquarium, a massive and beautifully preserved Renaissance hall within the complex.
Servus is Key: Instead of the more formal German Hallo, a friendly “Servus” is the most common informal way to say “hello” and “goodbye” in Munich and Bavaria.
Top Restaurants
Wirtshaus in der Au [$20-$35] – A popular, non-touristy Wirtshaus (tavern) known for its focus on traditional Bavarian cuisine, especially its wide variety of Knödel (dumplings), and a cozy, authentic atmosphere.
Görreshof [$20-$35] – One of the older, traditional Bavarian taverns in Munich, offering classic hospitality and a wide menu including Münchner Schnitzel and Schweinebraten (roast pork).
Gasthaus Isarthor [$20-$35] – Known by locals as a “last traditional isle,” this spot brings back the pride of Bavarian traditions and offers a genuine, no-frills experience near the Isar gate.
Augustiner Bräustuben [$20-$35] – Located at the Augustiner brewery premises, this traditional spot offers authentic Bavarian cuisine and the brewery’s excellent beer in a lively, historic setting, popular with locals and known for its reasonable prices.
Gaststätte Großmarkthalle [$20-$35] – Famous among locals, especially market workers, for having some of the best Weißwürste (white sausage) in Munich. It offers hearty portions in a classic, unpretentious setting.
Zwickl [$20-$35] – A favorite for its tender, melt-in-your-mouth Schweinebraten and good Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), providing high quality Bavarian food at a reasonable price point.
Schiller Bräu [$20-$35] – A smaller, local brewery with a restaurant that is highly recommended for its excellent Käsespätzle (a better version of mac and cheese) and house-brewed beer.
Zum Kloster [$25-$40] – A cozy and authentic Bavarian spot, often recommended by locals for its traditional dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, away from the main tourist crowds.
Servus Heidi [$25-$40] – A modern interpretation of a Munich tavern (Wirtshaus), offering great, hearty Bavarian food in a trendy yet comfortable atmosphere that appeals to a younger local crowd.
Der Pschorr [$30-$45] – Located near the Viktualienmarkt, this restaurant stands out for its commitment to sourcing, using rare-breed Bavarian cattle and offering excellent traditional dishes in a high-quality setting.
Georgenhof [$30-$45] – Located in Schwabing, this is a highly-regarded, non-touristy spot known for its very good Bavarian-German cuisine and excellent value for the quality.
Weisses Bräuhaus [$25-$40] – Famous for its own Schneider wheat beer and delicious, traditional Bavarian dishes, including offal-based snacks, in a large, historic setting frequented by locals.
Trisoux [$35-$60] – A modern and dramatically designed urban retreat that offers a sophisticated, inventive cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients.
Gabelspiel [$40-$70] – Located in Obergiesing, this restaurant has a modern, creative menu that earned it a Michelin mention, focusing on a playful take on contemporary cuisine.
Sparkling Bistro [$45-$75] – A unique concept combining a casual bistro setting with ambitious, Michelin-starred cooking that focuses on creative, contemporary dishes.
Brothers [$50-$80] – A modern spot in Maxvorstadt owned by twin brothers, offering inventive, refined dishes and a high-quality dining experience.
Pageou [$50-$80] – Chef Ali Güngörmüş offers elevated cuisine with culinary inspiration from his Turkish roots, providing a sophisticated, unique fusion experience.
Schwarzreiter Tagesbar & Restaurant [$60-$90] – Located in the Kempinski Hotel, this posh venue offers New Bavarian Kitchen, a reimagined, refined take on local fare with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
KOMU [$60-$90] – A Michelin-mentioned spot in the Old Town offering a modern take on German cuisine, appealing to those seeking contemporary refinement of classic dishes.
Alois (Dallmayr Fine Dining) [$100-$180] – A Michelin-starred restaurant located in the famous Dallmayr delicatessen, known for its elegant, modern cuisine and exceptional service.
Atelier [$150-$250] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant located in the Bayerischer Hof hotel, renowned for its French cuisine with subtle Asian influences and an industrial-chic atmosphere.
Tantris [$180-$300] – A two-Michelin-starred institution with a legendary status, offering intense, modern, and often experimental cuisine in a striking, architect-designed space.
JAN [$150-$250] – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering sleek, stylish haute cuisine that is often experimental and pushing culinary boundaries.
Tohru in der Schreiberei [$180-$300] – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering an experimental French-Japanese fusion menu in a historic setting, focusing on precision and creativity.
Brenner Grill [$35-$60] – Located in a grand, pillared setting, this popular spot offers a fusion of Italian cuisine and classic grilled dishes, known for its lively, upmarket atmosphere.
Tian [$40-$70] – A Michelin-mentioned restaurant specializing in gourmet vegetarian and vegan cuisine, offering inventive, refined dishes that elevate plant-based cooking.
Bar Centrale [$20-$35] – A popular espresso bar that evokes “la dolce vita,” offering a simple menu of excellent Italian espresso, pastries, and lunch items like pasta dishes.
Trattoria Da Paolo [$25-$40] – A typical Italian restaurant with a Sardinian focus, praised by locals for its authenticity and being a non-touristy spot for delicious Italian food in a city with many Italian options.
BOs VIET DELI [$15-$25] – A highly-rated, budget-friendly spot specializing in authentic Vietnamese cuisine with vegan options, providing a delicious and popular diverse option.
Sangeet [$20-$35] – A highly-rated, authentic Indian restaurant with a great local following, known for its traditional curries and warm hospitality.
Wirtshaus am Bavariapark [$20-$35] – Known for its delicious food and beer garden, this spot offers traditional Bavarian fare and is located slightly outside the core tourist area, making it a great local choice.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Schumann’s Bar am Hofgarten: An absolute institution in the heart of Munich’s city center near the Hofgarten, known for its iconic status, sophisticated ambiance, and classic cocktails. It’s a timeless spot for a late-night drink.
Zephyr Bar: Found in the Baaderstrasse area (Glockenbachviertel), this trendy speakeasy-style hangout is celebrated for its artistic cocktails, fun flavor combinations, and creative, fancy garnishes.
Die Goldene Bar: Located within the historic Haus der Kunst art museum near the English Garden, this vibrant, historical lounge features a stunning golden interior and a lovely terrace, specializing in gin and exceptional cocktails.
Bar Gabányi: Set near Beethovenplatz, this bar strikes a balance between sophistication and relaxation, standing out for its impeccably crafted classic cocktails, warm atmosphere, and impressive whiskey selection.
Trisoux: A dramatic urban retreat in the Glockenbachviertel, offering an innovative cocktail menu in a stylish, high-concept setting.
CALL SOUL – Breaking Bar: A unique, quirky bar in the center of the city with a concept inspired by the show Breaking Bad, featuring lab coat-wearing bartenders, dry ice, and test-tube cocktails.
Negroni Bar: A stylishly retro space on Sedanstrasse offering classic and modern cocktails with a focus on house-made bitters and syrups, along with a Mediterranean food menu.
The Crowbar: Located in the city center, this authentic spot stands out from the crowd with its positive, “different” vibe and a focus on high-quality spirits and expertly mixed drinks.
Barroom: Situated in the trendy Schwabing neighborhood, this modern cocktail bar is known for its inventive creations and sometimes features prohibition-era specialties.
Auroom: A compact, unassuming cocktail bar in the Glockenbachviertel, highly regarded for its creative and delicious twists on classic drinks.
Juliet Rose Bar: Found within the Hilton Hotel in the city center, this lounge bar is known for its floral-inspired cocktails and lovely decor.
Falk’s Bar: Located in the famous Hotel Bayerischer Hof, this bar offers a relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere and friendly staff, perfect for a quality drink in the city center.
The High: A popular, peak “hipster” bar near the River Isar, with a tropical vibe, lots of sprawling plants, and creative cocktails.
Bar Tantris / Bar Rendezvous: Part of the iconic Tantris Maison Culinaire in Schwabing, the bar is a stunning 70s design space, perfect for classic cocktails, fine wine, and champagne.
The Boilerman Bar München: A stylish and inviting venue located on the first floor of the 25hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian near the train station, known for its rich colors, velvet chairs, and a focus on highballs.
P1 Club: One of Munich’s most legendary and exclusive nightclubs, located at the Haus der Kunst, known for its stylish clientele, high-energy parties, and reputation as an “After-Wiesn” (Oktoberfest) hotspot.
Rote Sonne: Situated in the city center, this electro and techno club is a well-known institution, considered the successor to the legendary Ultraschall and a long-time home for dance enthusiasts.
Blitz Club: A more recent addition to the scene near the Deutsches Museum, this club is all about the music, boasting a top-tier sound system and a focus on diverse electronic music genres.
Palais Club: A lavish venue in the city center known for its opulent design with gold accents, VIP lounges, and a vibrant scene centered on electronic and house music.
Milchbar: A popular, lively club in the city center that is famous for its themed nights, with DJs playing a mix of house, EDM, and music focusing on different decades.
Bahnwärter Thiel: Located in the Schlachthof district, this unique space is built using shipping containers and old subway cars, hosting a mix of club nights, cultural events, and open-air parties in a relaxed setting.
Milla Club: A venue in the Glockenbachviertel that regularly features live bands and concerts, but also transforms into a vibrant club for a more diverse music scene.
Lucky Who: A popular club in the city center that offers a lively atmosphere and is known for its diverse events and good music mix.
Charlie: A bar and club in the city center known for its fun, unpretentious atmosphere and diverse local DJs, perfect for hopping from drink to drink.
Upper Bavaria
Most Popular Attractions
Royal Castles & Palaces:
- Neuschwanstein Castle: The iconic, world-famous “fairytale castle” built by King Ludwig II, perched dramatically in the Alpine foothills.
- Linderhof Palace: The smallest of King Ludwig II’s palaces, inspired by Versailles, featuring elaborate Rococo interiors and a stunning Venus Grotto.
- Herrenchiemsee New Palace: An unfinished palace on an island in the Chiemsee lake, built by King Ludwig II as a tribute to Louis XIV of France.
- Hohenschwangau Castle: The childhood residence of King Ludwig II, located near Neuschwanstein, in a striking neo-Gothic style.
Alpine Peaks & Lakes:
- Zugspitze: Germany’s highest peak, accessible by cable car or cogwheel train, offering spectacular panoramic views of four countries.
- Eibsee: A stunning emerald lake at the foot of the Zugspitze, known for its crystal-clear water and picturesque islands.
- Königssee (King’s Lake): A deep, fjord-like lake in Berchtesgaden National Park, surrounded by steep cliffs, with a boat trip to St. Bartholomew’s Church.
- Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm): A dramatic, deep gorge near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, offering impressive hiking paths.
- Tegernsee: A popular, beautiful lake region known for its high water quality, charming spa towns, and panoramic views.
- Chiemsee (Bavarian Sea): Bavaria’s largest lake, featuring two main islands: Herreninsel (home to Herrenchiemsee Palace) and Fraueninsel (with a Benedictine convent).
Historic Towns & Cultural Sites:
- Berchtesgaden: A picturesque town nestled in the Alps, known as the gateway to the Berchtesgaden National Park.
- Garmisch-Partenkirchen: A famous winter sports town with traditional painted facades, situated near the Zugspitze.
- Mittenwald: A violin-making village with beautifully painted houses, surrounded by the Karwendel Alps.
- Oberammergau: A village famous for its woodcarvers and the Passion Play, performed every ten years.
- Wieskirche (Pilgrimage Church of Wies): An oval Rococo church, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of 18th-century European art.
- Ettal Abbey: A large Benedictine monastery near Oberammergau with an impressive Baroque church.
- Bad Tölz: A historic spa town on the Isar River, noted for its painted houses in the main street, the Marktstraße.
- Burghausen Castle: The longest castle complex in the world (according to the Guinness Book of Records), stretching over a ridge above the Salzach River.
- Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle’s Nest): Hitler’s former mountaintop retreat, now a restaurant and historical site with breathtaking views near Berchtesgaden.
- Schleißheim Palace Complex: A grand Baroque palace ensemble outside Munich, including the Old and New Palaces.
- Drei-Seen-Gebiet (Three Lakes Area): A tranquil area near Weilheim, including the popular Starnberger See (Starnberg Lake), one of Bavaria’s largest.
- Tölzer Christkindlmarkt: (Seasonal) The Christmas market in Bad Tölz, a prime example of Upper Bavarian holiday tradition.
- Kloster Andechs: A Benedictine monastery on a hill above Lake Ammersee, famous for its pilgrimage church and its own brewery and beer garden.
- Franz Marc Museum in Kochel am See: Dedicated to the famous Expressionist painter Franz Marc, situated by the beautiful Kochelsee lake.
Activities & Experiences
Visit the Castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau: Take a day trip to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, the fairytale inspiration for Disney, and its less-famous but equally historic neighbor, Hohenschwangau.
Hike the Zugspitze: Ride a cable car or cogwheel train to the summit of Germany’s highest mountain for breathtaking, multi-country views.
Go Swimming or Boating on a Lake: Spend a summer day at one of Upper Bavaria’s stunning lakes, such as Chiemsee (Bavarian Sea), Tegernsee, or Starnberger See.
Explore the Baroque Abbey of Ettal: Visit this magnificent Benedictine monastery located near Oberammergau, renowned for its stunning architecture and historic brewery.
Attend a Passion Play in Oberammergau: If visiting during the decennial year, witness the world-famous Passion Play, a profound and historic theatrical event.
Take a Toboggan Ride (Sledging): In winter, find one of the many local hills or dedicated tracks for a fun, traditional sledging experience. Some tracks are also open for summer tubing.
Go on a Scenic Drive along the German Alpine Road (Deutsche Alpenstraße): Rent a car and drive a section of this famed route, passing through picturesque towns and dramatic mountain vistas.
Visit the Salt Mines in Berchtesgaden: Take an underground train deep into the mountains to explore the historic salt mines and learn about the region’s long-standing salt production.
Explore the Charming Town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Wander through this popular dual-town known for its stunning mountain backdrop and houses painted with traditional motifs (Lüftlmalerei).
Take a Ferry to Herreninsel in Chiemsee: Visit King Ludwig II’s Herrenchiemsee Palace, a lavish replica of the Palace of Versailles, located on an island in the lake.
Hike to a Mountain Alm (Hut): Embark on a rewarding hike up one of the many peaks and enjoy a hearty meal and a local beer at a rustic mountain hut before descending.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential for Flexibility: To fully appreciate the stunning lakes and mountains of Upper Bavaria and visit attractions like Neuschwanstein, a rental car is highly recommended. This allows you to explore the scenic routes and charming villages at your own pace.
Regional Trains (BRB/Meridian): For day trips to major towns and lakes like Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Salzburg (though in Austria), or Lake Chiemsee, the Bayerische Regiobahn (BRB) and Meridian services offer a comfortable, efficient, and often very scenic alternative to driving.
The Bayern Ticket: If you are traveling in a group (up to 5 people) or simply making a long day trip by regional train, the Bayern Ticket offers unlimited travel on regional trains and most local transport across all of Bavaria for one fixed price per day. It is an excellent value.
Alpine Cable Cars and Cogwheel Trains: In the mountains, local transport often involves cable cars (Seilbahnen) or cogwheel trains (Zahnradbahnen) to reach summits or high-altitude hiking areas. These are separate from the main MVV/BRB network and require individual tickets.
The Hiking Culture: Hiking (Wandern) is a fundamental part of the culture. Always check the weather and trail conditions before setting out. It’s polite to offer a friendly “Grüß Gott” (a typical Bavarian greeting) to fellow hikers you pass on the trail.
Mountain Hut Etiquette: When visiting an Alm (mountain hut) for a break, it is expected that you order drinks and food—don’t just sit and eat your own packed lunch. They often serve local, hearty fare that’s part of the experience.
Tracht (Traditional Dress): Don’t be surprised to see people wearing traditional clothing, such as Dirndl (for women) and Lederhosen (for men), not just at festivals like Oktoberfest, but also on Sundays, during special occasions, and even in daily life in more traditional villages.
Castle Planning: The famous Neuschwanstein Castle requires a pre-booked time slot for entry, especially during peak season. You cannot simply walk up and buy a ticket. Plan this day well in advance.
Hidden Gems:
- Wieskirche (Pilgrimage Church of Wies): A UNESCO World Heritage site near Steingaden, this rococo masterpiece is a stunning example of intricate Bavarian craftsmanship.
- Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm) in Garmisch-Partenkirchen: A spectacular, deep gorge with trails carved into the rock, where you can walk alongside a rushing river, especially magical in winter when icicles form.
- The Bavarian Lakes: While Starnberger See and Chiemsee are popular, seek out smaller, less crowded gems like Walchensee or Kochelsee for a more peaceful experience.
- Königsee: A stunning fjord-like lake near Berchtesgaden where a silent electric boat will take you past towering cliffs to the picturesque St. Bartholomew’s Church.
Top Restaurants
Gasthof Fraundorfer [$25-$40] – A renowned, historic inn in the heart of Partenkirchen (Garmisch-Partenkirchen), famous for its traditional Bavarian specialties and lively Bavarian evenings with Schuhplattler dancing and music.
Bräustüberl Garmisch [$20-$35] – A traditional restaurant in Alt-Garmisch with a 350-year-old history, popular with locals and known for hearty Bavarian dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and Käsespätzle.
Zum Wildschütz [$25-$40] – A highly-rated traditional tavern in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, well-known for classic Bavarian fare such as Schweinebraten (roast pork) and a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Gasthaus zur Schranne [$20-$35] – Located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, this is a popular spot for authentic Bavarian cuisine, including dishes like Zwiebelrostbraten (roasted beef with onions).
Gasthof zur Linde [$20-$35] – A traditional Bavarian inn in Garmisch-Partenkirchen offering classic, home-style Bavarian dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wolpertinger [$25-$40] – A traditional restaurant in Garmisch-Partenkirchen known for its regional dishes like Münchner Schnitzel, Sauerbraten, and a cozy, folklore-inspired ambiance.
Landgasthaus Mesnerwirt [$20-$35] – Located in Gstadt-Gollenshausen (Chiemsee area), this spot offers fresh, regional, and seasonal Bavarian cuisine with a pleasant beer garden.
Zum Goldenen Pflug [$20-$35] – A classic Country cooking restaurant in Chieming (Chiemsee area), offering traditional regional dishes in a comfortable setting.
Gasthof Alpenrose [$20-$35] – A charming inn in Samerberg (Chiemsee area) known for its authentic, simple Bavarian Country cooking and local feel.
Alpengasthof Hochlenzer [$20-$35] – Situated on the mountainside near Berchtesgaden, this offers simple traditional Bavarian dishes in a cozy atmosphere with a stunning outdoor terrace and panoramic views.
Berggasthof Vorderbrand [$25-$40] – A very traditional alpine guest house in the Berchtesgaden area, offering an authentic Bavarian experience with cosy interiors and great views, focusing on staple dishes and seasonal specialties.
Watz Pub & Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located in the Berchtesgaden train station, this pub-restaurant offers Bavarian specialties and other international dishes in an authentic pub atmosphere.
Gasthof Zum Stern [$25-$40] – A historic and highly-regarded traditional inn in Tegernsee, offering classic Bavarian cuisine with fresh, regional ingredients.
Zum Vaas [$20-$35] – An outstanding traditional German restaurant outside of Munich, often noted by locals for its authentic and high-quality Bavarian fare.
Alter Wirt von Farchant [$20-$35] – Located in Farchant, near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, this traditional restaurant offers hearty Bavarian specialties and hospitality.
IKIGAI [$60-$100] – A modern cuisine restaurant located in Krün (near Garmisch-Partenkirchen) in the luxurious Schloss Elmau, offering high-end, creative culinary experiences.
ES:SENZ [$100-$180] – A two-Michelin-starred restaurant in Grassau (Chiemsee area) that offers a highly creative and innovative dining experience focusing on regionality and seasonality.
Restaurant Karner [$80-$140] – Located in Frasdorf (Chiemsee area), this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a creative menu focused on high-quality ingredients and modern culinary techniques.
Wachter Foodbar [$60-$100] – A modern cuisine spot in Prien am Chiemsee, known for its refined dishes and contemporary approach to dining near Lake Chiemsee.
June [$40-$70] – Located in Übersee (Chiemsee area), this restaurant focuses on modern regional cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal products.
Skytop Restaurant im Gutshof [$30-$50] – Recently re-opened on the Obersalzberg mountainside (Berchtesgaden), offering traditional Bavarian dishes with a modern twist, seasonal specialties, and beautiful mountain views.
PANORAMA Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located on the highest floor of Hotel EDELWEISS in Berchtesgaden, offering “Casual” Fine Dining with stunning panoramic views of the Alps and a menu featuring exquisite gourmet dishes, burgers, and salads.
STUBN in der Frasdorfer Hütte [$40-$70] – An upscale ‘Alpine’ dining experience in Frasdorf (Chiemsee area), blending traditional mountain flavors with modern refinement.
Gabelspiel [$70-$120] – Although technically in Munich-adjacent Giesing, it’s worth noting as a high-end, creative restaurant with a focus on upscale cuisine.
Restaurant Überfahrt [$180-$300+] – A three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Rottach-Egern on the shore of Lake Tegernsee, offering an indulgent and highly-refined dining experience balancing international and regional flavors.
Michaels Leitenberg [$120-$200] – A fine dining restaurant in Frasdorf (Chiemsee area) focusing on modern cuisine with an elegant atmosphere and high-quality preparation.
Epicures [$100-$180] – A high-end restaurant in Aschau im Chiemgau (Chiemsee area), known for its modern French cuisine and sophisticated dining experience.
Dorfstadl im Bio-Hotel Grafthof [$80-$140] – Located in Schliersee, this high-end spot focuses on gourmet regional cuisine, often organic, in a beautiful, upscale alpine setting.
Karrisma [$100-$180] – A fine dining, creative cuisine restaurant in Lindau, offering a luxurious experience outside of the main city areas.
IKIGAI [$60-$100] – Mentioned above, this restaurant in Schloss Elmau in Krün provides a modern and high-quality, fine-dining experience in a stunning mountain setting.
Schlosswirtschaft Herrenchiemsee [$30-$50] – Located in the Augustinian Monastery on Herrenchiemsee Island, offering Bavarian and seasonal dishes in a unique historical and scenic location.
Hotel-Café-Restaurant “Zur Linde” [$30-$50] – Found on the tranquil Frauenchiemsee Island, offering regional specialties and fish from the lake in a lovely island setting.
Zum Fischer am See [$30-$50] – Located in Prien am Chiemsee, this restaurant offers seasonal cuisine with a focus on fish, benefiting from its lakeside location.
Weisses Rössl [$20-$35] – A traditional regional restaurant in Wasserburg am Inn, a beautiful, historic town, offering local dishes.
Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle’s Nest Restaurant) [$30-$60] – Open seasonally, this unique restaurant near Berchtesgaden offers traditional Bavarian fare with one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the world from a historically significant location.
Landgasthaus Mesnerwirt [$20-$35] – Mentioned above, a great example of a local, authentic Landgasthaus (country inn) in Gstadt-Gollenshausen with fresh, regional cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
Moosleitner [$30-$50] – Located in Freilassing, bordering Austria, this idyllic restaurant in a traditional hotel focuses on simple, traditional, hearty regional food and an almost entirely locally sourced menu.
Zum Wirt [$25-$40] – A classic, local Wirtshaus (tavern) often found in smaller towns like Lenggries or Bad Tölz, providing a genuine taste of non-touristy Bavarian home cooking.
Kaiserschmarrn-Alm [$20-$35] – A mountain hut/restaurant in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, known for hearty alpine dishes, especially the namesake shredded pancake dessert/meal, and incredible views.
Metzgerei Sedlmayr [$15-$25] – While primarily a butcher shop in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, it is famous for its simple, traditional lunches like Leberkässemmel (meatloaf in a roll) and Schweinebraten—a true local’s spot for cheap, high-quality eats.
Hofcafé Utz [$15-$25] – A delightful farm café near the Chiemsee in Lienzing, perfect for coffee, cake, and light regional fare in a peaceful, rural setting.