Bavaria

Information and Tourism

Bavaria isn't quite like other German states, although it is hard to say why exactly. What is clear, is that the people who live here have managed to hang onto a very distinct Bavarian culture and way of life.

Traditions abound in Bavaria, from the costumes that still emerge from wardrobes to be worn at special events - including the legendary 'lederhosen', to the 'oompah' music that plays on local radio. You can't help but sing along. Traditional food and drink includes a wide variety of 'bratwurst' and huge steins of beer. Indeed, this most beer-centric of states stages an annual Munich Oktoberfest, which is the proud holder of the title - largest beer festival in the world.

Reputed to be one of the oldest states in Europe, Bavaria boasts a plethora of historic buildings. Amongst the most splendid of sights is the fairytale silhouette of Neuschwanstein Castle. One of many built for the 19th-century King Ludwig II, it was never actually completed in its entirety. It doesn't seem to matter though, with millions of people coming to admire the royal castle each year.

The beating heart of Bavaria is undoubtedly its capital city of Munich. With its top-notch museums and galleries, this self-confessed centre of Bavarian provincial life also manages to exude an enviable cosmopolitan atmosphere.

In the north of Bavaria are the Franconian cities of Nuremberg and Würzburg, once very much separate from the rest of Bavaria. Reduced to rubble during World War Two, both have been carefully restored to their former glory - so much so, that it is almost impossible to believe that they haven't always been this picture-postcard perfect.

Head eastwards to the town of Regensburg for even more medieval perfection. This small city was once the home of Oskar Schindler, who was the subject of the film 'Schindler's List'.

Bavaria Information and Fast Facts

• Country: Germany
• Main city or administrative centre: Munich
• Population: approximately 12.6 million
• Language: German
• Area: 27,240 square miles / 70,550 square kilometres

	WORLD GUIDES TO BAVARIA
	World Guide to Munich, Germany Filled with traditional Bavarian character, the German city of Munich is actually the state capital. The centre of Munich comprises a series of historical structures, such as the famous Town Hall and the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche).
	World Guide to Nuremberg, Germany The second-largest city in Germany's Bavaria state, Nuremberg is a spirited city, which has successfully left its strong Nazi legacy in the past. Nuremberg is a forward looking city and hosts some spectacular seasonal festivals and events.
	World Guide to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany A charming Bavarian town enjoying a pretty hilltop setting, Rothenburg ob der Tauber comes with a quaint medieval Old Town (Altstadt) comprising cobblestone streets and part-timbered houses brimming with character.