Altbayern, Germany Travel Guide

Discover the essence of Bavaria in Altbayern: a region rich in tradition, history, and natural beauty, perfect for exploring vibrant cities and serene countryside.

Altbayern, or Old Bavaria, is a charming region in Germany known for its rich history and vibrant culture. It encompasses the areas of Upper Bavaria, Lower Bavaria, and the Upper Palatinate. This region is the birthplace of many Bavarian traditions that are celebrated worldwide, including Oktoberfest, traditional Bavarian clothing, and hearty Bavarian cuisine. In Altbayern, you can explore a mix of bustling cities and serene countryside. Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a must-visit with its stunning architecture, museums, and of course, the famous beer gardens. But don't miss out on the smaller towns and villages like Regensburg and Passau, where you can wander through medieval streets and enjoy the scenic views along the Danube River. Nature lovers will find plenty to do in Altbayern. The Bavarian Alps offer breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing. The region is also dotted with beautiful lakes, such as Lake Chiemsee, where you can relax and take in the natural beauty. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or nature, Altbayern has something to offer every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Altbayern.

Visit during Oktoberfest for an authentic Bavarian experience.
Try local dishes like Weisswurst and pretzels in traditional beer gardens.
Explore the smaller towns and villages for a more relaxed and scenic experience.
Pack comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
Learn a few basic German phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

Top City Travel Guides in Altbayern

The cities of Altbayern, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Munich

Nuremberg

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Stuttgart

Wurzburg

Destinations in Altbayern

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Berchtesgaden National Park

Eagle's Nest

Bavarian Forest National Park

Munich Countryside

Zugspitze

Explore Altbayern: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Altbayern

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Old Stone Bridge

Explore the Old Stone Bridge in Regensburg, a historic architectural marvel offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.

4.7

Nationalpark Berchtesgaden

Explore Nationalpark Berchtesgaden: A breathtaking Bavarian natural wonder with stunning landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and endless outdoor adventures.

4.8

Rossfeld Panorama Strasse

Explore the stunning Rossfeld Panorama Strasse for breathtaking views and unforgettable hiking experiences in the Bavarian Alps.

4.8

Nationalpark Bayerischer Wald

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Nationalpark Bayerischer Wald, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts in Bavaria.

4.8

Best landmarks in Altbayern

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Marienplatz

Explore Marienplatz, Munich's historic plaza where culture, architecture, and Bavarian traditions come alive in the heart of the city.

4.7

Neuschwanstein Castle

Explore the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, a stunning architectural gem in the Bavarian Alps, rich with history and breathtaking views.

4.6

Olympiapark München

Explore Olympiapark München, a stunning blend of nature, culture, and history in the heart of Munich, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and event-goers alike.

4.7

English Garden

Explore the English Garden in Munich, a stunning urban park filled with lush greenery, cultural attractions, and vibrant beer gardens, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

4.7

Best restaurants in Altbayern

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Ratskeller München

Discover authentic Bavarian cuisine at Ratskeller München, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Munich.

4.4

Andy's Krablergarten

Experience authentic Bavarian flavors at Andy's Krablergarten in Munich - where tradition meets taste in every bite.

4.6

Der Pschorr

Experience authentic Bavarian cuisine at Der Pschorr in Munich’s vibrant Viktualienmarkt – a must-visit for every food lover.

4.2

Münchner Stubn

Savor traditional Bavarian dishes at Münchner Stubn, where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Munich.

4.3

Best bars in Altbayern

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Kennedy's Bar and Restaurant

Discover the charm of Irish cuisine and hospitality at Kennedy's Bar and Restaurant in Munich, where every meal is a celebration.

4.4

Alte Utting

Experience the unique charm of Alte Utting, Munich's floating gastropub offering delicious food, drinks, and live music in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Gasthof Neuhaus

Discover authentic Bavarian flavors at Gasthof Neuhaus, where traditional cuisine meets stunning alpine beauty in Berchtesgaden.

4.5

Tap-House

Discover the ultimate brewpub experience at Tap-House in Munich, where craft beers and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Altbayern

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Maxxim

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Maxxim, a premier night club in Berlin, where music and energy collide for an unforgettable evening.

4.1

Neuraum

Experience the ultimate nightlife at Neuraum, Munich's dynamic club where dancing, dining, and socializing meet in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

City Beats

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Salzburg at City Beats, where electrifying music meets an unforgettable atmosphere for party lovers.

3.7

P1 Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Munich at P1 Club, a luxurious destination for dance, drinks, and unforgettable memories.

3.4

Best shops in Altbayern

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

pep Einkaufscenter Neuperlach

Explore pep Einkaufscenter Neuperlach for an unforgettable shopping and cultural experience in the heart of Munich.

4.3

Olympia Shopping Center

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Olympia Shopping Center in Munich, offering a diverse shopping and dining experience for every traveler.

4.3

Pasing Arcaden

Discover Pasing Arcaden: Munich's premier shopping mall with an array of stores, dining options, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.4

City-Galerie

Explore City-Galerie in Augsburg, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse stores, dining options, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.4

Explore Altbayern on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Altbayern, mapped for you.

Altbayern Essentials

Altbayern, or Old Bavaria, is well-connected to other parts of Germany and Europe. The major entry points are Munich, Nuremberg, and Regensburg, all of which have international airports. Munich Airport (MUC) is the largest and offers numerous international and domestic flights. From the airports, you can take a train, bus, or rent a car to explore Altbayern. The Deutsche Bahn (DB) train network is extensive and offers convenient connections to various towns and cities within Altbayern.
Altbayern has a robust public transportation system, including trains, buses, and trams. Deutsche Bahn (DB) operates the regional and long-distance trains, while local public transport is managed by various municipal companies. For intra-city travel, trams and buses are frequent and reliable. If you prefer to drive, car rentals are widely available. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes in many cities and picturesque cycling routes in the countryside.
The official currency in Germany is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and rural areas where card payments may not be possible. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns, allowing you to withdraw Euros as needed.
Altbayern is generally a safe region for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places like markets and train stations. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always advisable.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to emergency services, including police, fire brigade, and medical services. Hospitals and clinics are available in major cities, and pharmacies are plentiful for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual when dining out or visiting cultural sites. Avoid overly casual attire in formal settings. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially in churches. Always remain quiet and dress modestly. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be open to different types of cuisine. Don't rush meals; savor your food and enjoy the experience.
To experience Altbayern like a local, attend a traditional beer garden or 'Biergarten' and enjoy a pretzel with your beer. Visit local farmers' markets to taste fresh produce and regional specialties. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the region's culture and history. Don't miss the regional festivals, such as Oktoberfest in Munich, for an authentic cultural experience.

When is the best time to visit Altbayern?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Altbayern

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Altbayern. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGrüß Gott
  [Grewss Got]
- GoodbyePfiad di
  [Fyahd dee]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNein
  [Nine]
- Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [Bittuh]
- Thank youDanke
  [Dahnkeh]
- Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [Entshooldihgoong]
- How are you?Wie geht's?
  [Vee gates?]
- Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [Goot. Oond deer?]
- Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [Shprekh-en Zee English?]
- I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [Ish fer-shtay-eh nicht]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch hätte gerne die Speisekarte, bitte
  [Ish hett-eh gair-nuh dee Shpieze-kart-eh, bitt-eh]
- I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [Ish ess-eh kyan Fly-sh]
- Cheers!Prost!
  [Prohst!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIch möchte bezahlen, bitte
  [Ish merkh-tuh beh-tsahl-en, bitt-eh]
- Help!Hilfe!
  [Hil-fuh!]
- Go away!Geh weg!
  [Gay vek!]
- Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [Roo-fen Zee dee Polite-sigh!]
- Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [Roo-fen Zee eye-nen Arts!]
- I'm lostIch habe mich verlaufen
  [Ish hah-bee mikh fer-lah-fen]
- I'm illIch bin krank
  [Ish bin krank]
- I'd like to buy...Ich möchte ... kaufen
  [Ish merkh-tuh ... kauf-en]
- I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [Ish shou-eh noor]
- How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [Vee feel kost-et es?]
- That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [Dahs ist tsu toy-er]
- Can you lower the price?Können Sie den Preis senken?
  [Kurn-en Zee den Price senk-en?]
- What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [Vee shpayt ist es?]
- It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [Es ist ine Oor]
- Half past (10)Halb (10)
  [Halb (10)]
- MorningMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- AfternoonNachmittag
  [Nahch-mit-tag]
- EveningAbend
  [Ah-bent]
- YesterdayGestern
  [Geh-stern]
- TodayHeute
  [Hoy-tuh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Mor-gen]
- 1Eins
  [Eyns]
- 2Zwei
  [Tsvi]
- 3Drei
  [Dry]
- 4Vier
  [Feer]
- 5Fünf
  [Fuenf]
- 6Sechs
  [Zex]
- 7Sieben
  [Zee-ben]
- 8Acht
  [Acht]
- 9Neun
  [Noyn]
- 10Zehn
  [Tsayn]
- Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/das ...?
  [Vo ist ine/dahs ...?]
- What's the address?Wie ist die Adresse?
  [Vee ist dee Ah-dress-uh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir (auf der Karte) zeigen?
  [Kurn-en Zee meer (owf dare Kahr-tuh) tsigh-gen?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [Vahn komt dare nex-teh (Boos)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ein Ticket (nach ....)
  [Ine Ticket (nahkh ....)]

History of Altbayern

Altbayern, meaning 'Old Bavaria,' refers to the regions of Upper Bavaria, Lower Bavaria, and the Upper Palatinate. This area forms the historical core of the Free State of Bavaria. The roots of Altbayern trace back to the early Middle Ages, around the 6th century, when the Bavarii tribe settled in the region. Their influence laid the groundwork for what would become one of Germany's most culturally rich and historically significant areas.
One cannot discuss the history of Altbayern without mentioning the Wittelsbach dynasty. This influential family ruled Bavaria from 1180 until the end of World War I in 1918. The Wittelsbachs were pivotal in shaping the political and cultural landscape of the region. Their legacy includes numerous architectural marvels such as the Residenz in Munich and the Neuschwanstein Castle, which is often referred to as the 'fairy-tale castle.'
In 1806, Bavaria was elevated to the status of a kingdom under the rule of Maximilian I Joseph, the first King of Bavaria. This period marked significant modernization efforts, including the establishment of a centralized administration and the promotion of arts and sciences. The Kingdom of Bavaria played a crucial role in the unification of Germany in 1871, although it maintained a high degree of autonomy within the newly formed German Empire.
Oktoberfest is arguably one of the most famous cultural events associated with Bavaria. The first Oktoberfest took place in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The festival has since grown into the world's largest Volksfest, attracting millions of visitors annually who come to enjoy traditional Bavarian beer, food, and music.
Altbayern, like much of Germany, was profoundly affected by World War II. Cities such as Munich faced significant destruction due to Allied bombings. After the war, the region was part of the American occupation zone and underwent extensive rebuilding and economic recovery. The post-war period saw the resurgence of Altbayern as a cultural and economic hub in West Germany.
The fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the subsequent reunification of Germany in 1990 brought significant changes to Altbayern. The region has since developed into a thriving and modern part of the unified Germany, while still maintaining its rich cultural heritage. Today, Altbayern is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.