It is also the second largest amongst Gothic churches in Germany. Do not believe that this is the only tourist spot in Ulm, since it has lots more on offer.

Ulm Minster

Check out the Ulm Museum where you can learn more about the town’s history and also the history of the regions surrounding it. Then there is also the Breadmaking Museum where visitors can learn more about the art of making bread.

Those who are interested about the history of Danube Germany must visit the Danube German Central Museum. Tourists who are interested in art and culture should pay a visit to the Ulm University where one can view around sixty works of art including murals and large scale sculptures.

The modern Stadhaus, designed by Richard Meier, an international architect of repute is another popular tourist spot.

Ulm, Old Town Hall

It was built in 1993 opposite the late Gothic minister and is famous for its modern style architecture. Tourists are also recommended to visit the Edwin Scharff Museum, which is devoted to the painter of the same name. One can find watercolor drawings along with sculptures, which are the main attractions.

Those interested in shopping should check out the pedestrian area which is one of the best outdoor shopping areas of the city. Small street side shops share space with famous departmental stores in Hirchelstrasse.

Stuttgart airport, the nearest airport, connects the city with the rest of the world, as does autobahns A7 & A8.

Built by Gabriel von Seidi in the historism style between the years 1894-1900, this building was considered as one of the significant and original of museum buildings of its era. Previously this museum was located in the building that currently houses the State Museum of Ethnology.

Munich Bavarian National Museum inside

Visitors are recommended to spare a full day, if possible more, to be able to fully view the huge collection, spread across forty rooms, of European artifacts that date back from the late antiquity to the early twentieth century. The artifacts on display are divided into two groups: the folklore collection and the art historical collection.

Do not miss out on the sculptures by renowned sculptors like Tilman Riemenschneider, Erasmus Grasser, Matthias Steinl and others. Be prepared to be bowled over by exhibits like goldsmith works, glass painting, ivory reliefs, oil paintings, clocks, miniatures, tapestries, and lots more.

Those interested in the late medieval sculptures should check out the Bollert Collection on the western wing of the museum.

Known locally as the Archäologische Staatssammlung, this museum, located in Munich, contains the best historical and archaeological collections of Germany. Johannes Ranke, the famous anthropologist, initiated the foundation of this museum in the year 1895. You should start of your sightseeing of Munich with this museum.

Munich Bavarian State Archaeological Collection

Be prepared for a rich feast for the eyes and view exhibits from the early middle ages, the migration period, the Roman Empire, the Celtan era, the Hallstatt and the Urnfield culture. Apart from all of the above, visitors can also witness artifacts from the Bronze Age, the Neolithic Age, and the Paleolithic Age.

Most of the exhibits in this museum are local in nature, but that hardly makes any difference as far as their archaeological values are concerned. Visit it and learn more about the history of the Bavarian settlement… right from the era when humans first made their appearance to the era of Charlemagne. A modern building was built in the year 1976 which is currently used to house the exhibits.

Brennhausen Castle

The record books pertaining to the Bishop of Wurzburg throws light on the holdings in Brennhausen by that of the Hans Truchseß. Until the year 1542, it was the Truchseß family that had held the reins of Brennhausen.

Physical evidences as well as documentation point to the burning of Brennhausen Castle during the year 1525, as when Peasants had revolted. The beam pertaining to the roof and the entrance related to one of the cellars belong to the age that followed this year. By the year 1587, Georg William von Kotzau had occupied the Brennhausen castle, and the year 1593 saw the return of the Truchseß family to the castle.

Brennhausen Castle

There is also a tradition that believes that Brennhausen Castle had been a monastery during the olden times, as the naming pertaining to the surrounding fields suggests such a possibility.

The castle of Johannisburg in Aschaffenburg was erected during the period that extended between 1605 and 1614, and it was built by Georg Ridinger. Schloss Johannisburg had served as the second residence related to the prince bishop of Mainz until 1803, and the construction of this castle was made possible through sandstone and other building materials found around the area of Aschaffenburg.

Aschaffenburg Schloss Johannisburg

This castle that takes its place on the prime riverside location is one of the attractions that make the city of Aschaffenburg proud, as it overlooks the waterside pertaining to Maine.

The oldest part pertaining to the Schloss Johannisburg is a keep that had been a part of the castle that had got destroyed in the 14^th century, with the keep getting included in the reconstruction process. The interiors of the castle were subjected to reconstruction during the 18^th century, as it embraced the style related to Classicism.

The former stately rooms of the castle are open to public view, as one can come across galleries of paintings that belonged to period 15^th to that of 18^th centuries.

Aschaffenburg Schloss Johannisburg courtyard

The castle courtyard is a host to regular summer markets as well as festivals, as the Schloss Johannisburg, one of the prime buildings belonging to the renaissance period adds value to Aschaffenburg. (photos: Sven Teschke)

Also known as Dreiflüssestadt (the city of three rivers), and nestled away on the German/Austrian border, Passau is situated in Lower Bavaria. It is close to the Danube, which is connected on the north by Liz and on the south by Inn. It is famous for its structures including the cathedral of St. Stephen which hosts the largest church organ in the world. This organ is also the second largest of its type in the world. This city is small in size and tourists can easily cover the same by foot.

Passau and Danube river

Passau Tourist Attractions:

Cathedral of St. Stephen: Popular by the name of `Dom St. Stephen,’ the Cathedral of St. Stephen, a baroque church, which is the seat of the Catholic Bishop of Passau, was rebuilt from 1668 to 1693 when a fire ravaged the old one in 1662. It also boasts of housing the largest cathedral organ in the world. The present building, which is around 100 meters long, still contains a part of the structure that remained unscathed by the fire. It lies on the eastern side of the structure and is popular with tourists for its Gothic style. Giovanni Battista Carloene undertook the interior decoration of the cathedral; Carpoforo Tencalla did the frescoes, and Carpoforo Tencalla the overall planning.

The Residenzplatz: This locale is bordered on the south by the new residence of the bishop, which dates back to the early Neo-classical period. Walk along and view a series of old buildings replete with their concealed ridge roofs, corbelling, and arcades. The residence of the bishop hosts the cathedral treasury. It also hosts a Diocesan museum that has to be accessed through the cathedral. The old palace, the toy museum, and the municipal theater are located close to the Residentplatz.

Veste Oberhaus, Passau

Veste Oberhaus: Established in 1219, this fortress served as the Bishop of Passau’s stronghold. This building is situated atop a mountain that lies between the Liz and the Danube rivers. It also provides tourists with a breathtaking view of the city. If the walls could talk, they would tell tourists that this fortress was assaulted on five occasions between 1250 and 1482. Thanks to its location, this fortress was never conquered militarily. According to history, locals who revolted against the Bishop in 1298 and in 1367 also attacked this building. During 1741, the Bavarians engaged the fortress. The Austrians removed the Bavarians and handed over the fortress to the Bishop.

The Jochenstien Power Station: Frequently visited by tourists, the Jochenstien Power Station is one of the largest power stations in Europe. It is located 22 kilometers east of Passau.

The Glass Museum: This is a must visit for those who are interested in Bohemian glass. There is simply no other glass museum of its kind in the world. Its 30,000 glass exhibits some of which date back as far as the year 1700 fascinate visitors. Founded by George Höltl, this museum was inaugurated in March 1985 by Neil Armstrong. Visitors are recommended to start from the fourth floor and work their way downwards. The Wilder Man Hotel also shares the museum building. (photos: Demonwhip, germany-vacations.com)

Situated in the region of Franconia, Würzburg lies on the northern point of Bavaria. It is also the capital of Regierungberg Lower Franconia. It is equidistant from Nurembug or Frankfurt am Main with its distance from either of them being approximately 120 kilometers.

Located on the point where autobahns A3 and A7 intersect, this city is easily accessible by car. Tourists can also visit it via train with frequent train services connecting it with Hamburg, Kassel, Munich, Nuremburg, Frankfurt, etc.

However, this city does not have its own airport with the nearest one being Frankfurt International airport which is an hour’s drive from this city. Apart from cabs, tourists can avail of trams and buses to travel within the city. However, the best way to explore the city and become familiar with it is by walking in its thoroughfares.

Würzburg Tourist Attractions:

Residenz: Constructed in the years 1719 to 1744 under the directions of Balthasar Neumann, Residenz, considered as one of Germany’s finest Baroque secular buildings is a must visit for tourists. The hall of mirrors, its beautiful court church, and its well-decorated imperial hall awe visitors to this palace. Do not forget to check out the huge fresco by Tiepolo that is located in the monumental staircase hall. Lovers of stucco-work should check out the white hall that contains the famous Roccoco stucco-work. The southern wing of the palace houses the Martin von Wagner Museum, which is famous for its collection including the art gallery, the print cabinet, and a decent collection of antique stuffs.

Museum of Eastern Franconia: The Museum of Eastern Franconia lies in the fortress of Würzburg and is famous for its work of art by artists who were either born or worked in Franconia. Do not miss viewing an important collection of sculptures by Tilman Riemenschnieder found on the first floor.

Würzburg Residence

Fortress of Marienberg: Locally known as the Festung Marienberg, this fortress is a well-known landmark on the Main River in the city. At present, it is more of a museum and park. For five centuries, it served as the residence of the prince-bishops. The fortress was reconstructed in the Baroque style in 1631, after being conquered by Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden.

The Hofgarten: Tourists simple love this French style garden, which is one of the best-maintained Roccoco garden in Germany. Built between the years 1703 and 1774, this garden is famous for its huge artificial lake, replete with fountains and a group of sculptures crowned by Pegasus. Apart from these, tourists will also find putti, alleogorical figures and ornamental vases.

Würzburg Festivals:

Almost all cities of Germany are famous for certain individual festivals that are unique to that city. Würzburg is no less and delights tourists with its famous Africa Festival which in arguably the largest festival for African music and culture in Europe. This event takes place every year during the end of May on the northwest side of the Main River.

Accommodation: Accommodation is no problem in Würzburg with various hotels catering to all budgets available in the city.

Tourists from all over the world are attracted to this city because of its wealth of architecture and art which has made it arguably one of the major tourist destinations of south Germany.

This city, founded in 15 BC by Emperor Tiberius, is also an archeologist’s delight, with ruins from the 4^th century AD discovered over here. Augsburg is the only German city has its personal legal holiday… the Peace of Augsburg… that is celebrated with much fanfare on 8 August every year. This city is also popular amongst international tourists because of its religious attractions.

Augsburg, Rathausplatz

Tourist spots:

Augsburg Cathedral: Both new visitors and those who visit this cathedral repeatedly are awed by its collection of stained glass windows. These stained glasses date back to the 12^th century and are considered the oldest of their kind in the world. The construction of this cathedral started in 944 AD.

Jüdisches Kulturmuseum: Visitors to this museum can find out more about this history of the Jewish community in the area. Visitors should not miss out viewing Augsburg’s main synagogue that was constructed in 1917 which is a art nouveau building topped by a golden dome.

St. Anne’s Church: Founded by Carmelite monks in 1321, this Gothic style church played a huge role in this history of the reformation. Visitors to this church should check out its fine works of art and also the Luther museum which is a part of the church.

St. Afra and St. Ulrich Church: Both of the churches that were constructed around 1500 on top of a Roman temple form the most exciting ecclesiastical compound in Augsburg. One of them is a Catholic church whilst the other is a Protestant church.

Maximilian Museum: A visit to Augsburg remains incomplete unless and until the visitor has viewed the Maximilian museum. It offers visitors a glimpse of the culture, art, and history of the city. The museum houses works by local silver and goldsmiths, items from the town’s history along with various sculptures.

The Town Hall: Known locally as the `Rathaus,’ the Town Hall is situated in the center of the city. It is a huge Renaissance building that was designed by Elias Holl, the municipal architect. Stroll along a bit and view the Augustus Fountain and the 78 meters tall Perlachturm.

Festivals: Augsburg is also famous all over the world for its festivals that include art, music, and film festivals. Apart from that there are quite a number of fairs and parades that keep on taking place throughout the year like the Bicycle Film Festival, the Emergenza Festival, SpielArt, etc. Visitors can get more information about the dates of these festivals from the tourism department.

It is assumed that this city derived its name from the House of the Bamberg family. It would be rather tough for tourists not to be impressed by Bamberg, which is adjudged as one of the most beautiful cities of Germany, thanks largely due to its superb palaces, magnificent cathedrals, along with a majestic center. Tourists will be impressed by the architectural delights that this city presents and that which have survived the ravages of bombing.

Apart from the above, the city is also a must visit for those who love drinking beer, with more 80 breweries in close proximity to the city and 10 in the city itself. Ask the locals and they will spare no pains to explain that their city, which is spread across seven hills, is just like Rome. They also love to compare the network of waterways of their city to that of Venice. The architecture of this city will remind tourists of Prague because the designs were done by the same set of architects. The Old Town of Bamberg is inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List.

Bamberg Cathedral

The repercussions of the Second World War left most cities of Germany damaged. However, Bamberg is one of the few such cities that were left untouched because of an artillery factory situated at close quarters that prohibited planes from approaching nearby.

Tourist Sights

Alte Hofhaltung: Built as the Bishop’s palace during 1571-1576, Alte Hoftaltun is considered amongst the best creations of the German Renaissance. Currently this building showcases a historical museum for decorative and applied art. Those who are interested in festivals should check out the Calderón Festival that is held it its courtyard.

Bamberg Cathedral: Locally known as the Dom, the Bamberg Cathedral boasts of four towers. Its main entrance lies on the north side, known as the Prince’s Doorway or the Fürstentor. This entrance is decorated with figures of prophets and apostles along with a relief of the Last Judgement that is located within the arch.

Michaelsberg: Tourists are recommended to check out the former Benedictine abbey that lies atop the hill in Bamberg. Over here, one can also find St. Michael’s Church. The north and west side of this church are surrounded by new abbey buildings. Do not miss out the ceiling paintings in the church that depict medicinal herbs.

New Residence: Known in local parlance as the Neue Residenz, this structure is considered to be one of the greatest works of J.L. Dientzenhofer. Do not miss the gallery of German Art and the State Library. Horticulturists will find interested to view the beautiful rose garden in the courtyard.

Festivals: Bamberg offers tourists with an option to view several festivals with the most famous ones being the Calderon Festival, which is a renowned open-air theater festival hosted in the courtyard of the Alte Hofhaltung each year, during the month of June. Also, try to attend the Sandkerwa, a religious festival and the Street Magician festival.

Strict laws protect the city center since the 1970s. The laws are so strict that they even dictate which pigments should be used when it is time to repair the façade of a building. Regensburg is one of the few German cities that escaped from bombardment during the Second World War, hence the Roman walls, the churches, towers, and the patrician mansions that tourists view are all authentic, making it an architectural delight.

Regensburg old town

Some of the artifacts of this city date back by more than 2,000 years. However, this does not mean that this city is just an architectural delight. Many other interesting spots make up the limbs of this city.

The Dom: Do not miss out on the famous cathedral, locally called as the Dom. It is a prime example of Gothic architecture in Bavaria. This cathedral was founded in the year 1275 and was completed, apart from the towers, in the year 1634. The towers were completed in the year 1869. The interiors of this cathedral contain a number of fascinating monuments that also include one of the masterpieces of Peter Vischer.

Regensburg Cathedral

The Stone Bridge: Another important tourist destination, the stone bridge was built between 1135 and 1146 and showcases an example of medieval bridge building. According to history, it was used by the knights of the second and third crusade to cross the Danube River on their journey towards the Holy Land.

Church of St. James: This church derives its name from the monastery of Scoti (Irish Benedictines) to which it was linked. Examine the doorway carefully for its amazing grotesque carvings of deities, animals, and saints.

Benedictine Monastery of St. Emmeram: This is both a chapel of the Thurn and Taxis family and also a Parish church. Check out the sanctuary carefully. It is a mixture of gilding and Baroque plaster that has been layered over a pre-Romanesque building.

Apart from the above, some more churches and cathedrals are worth visiting. What grabs the attention of the tourists the most is the way all these buildings have been preserved. The fact that this city had not been ravaged during the second world war helps, but then there are other cities too that have had this advantage, but few of them can boast of the levels of preservation of artifacts like Regensburg does.

Do not miss out on the festivals that are unique to this city while visiting it. Regensburger Dult is a famous public festival that takes place two times a year in May and August. Then there is the Bürgerfest that is celebrated every alternate year. The latter festival attracts more than 100,000 visitors.

It was built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria, as it gets spotted in the village of Schwangau that lies near Füssen. Erected on the remnants of fortress Schwanstein, it had got mentioned for the first time in historical records in the 12th century.

Hohenschwangau castle, Bavaria

Crown Prince Maximilian had captured the ruins pertaining to the fortress Schwanstein in the year 1832, and the reconstruction pertaining to the castle began in 1833, which continued until 1837, as additions were included up till 1855. Domenico Quaglio was the architect who paved way for the Neo-Gothic style related to the exteriors. After the death of Maximilian in 1864, Ludwig, his son had taken control over his father’s room in the Hohenschwangau Castle. When Ludwig had died in 1866, the only resident of the castle was Queen Marie.

Prince Regent Luitpold of Bavaria who had occupied the third floor pertaining to the main building of the castle was the one who enabled the electrification as well as the electric elevator in the year 1905. The palace got converted to a museum after the death of Lutipold in 1912.

The castle is now a favorite residence related to the successors of Crown Prince Rupprecht of Bavaria who had made use of Hohenschwangau Castle as their summer residence from 1933 to 1939.

The Augustine Monastery Herrenchiemsee, which had got converted into that of an Old Palace and the Herrenchiemsee Palace are the largest of palaces erected by King Ludwig II of Bavaria.

Herrenchiemsee palace

From being a Herrenchiemsee Benedictine Abbey that had been established in 765, it got converted to a brewery as when this island had been sold, as it was finally acquired by King Ludwig II in 1873.

It became the Old Palace as the New Herrenchiemsee Palace got initiated during the same year. The actual building related to this palace was designed by Georg Dollman, and this had been modeled on that of Versailles. The highlights related to the state rooms include the State Bedroom, State Staircase, and the great Hall of Mirrors.

The dining room at the Herrenchiemsee unveils an elevator table as well as huge chandelier of that of Meissen porcelain, which is the largest in the globe.

Herrenchiemsee castle

The formal gardens at the Herrenchiemsee are full of fountains as one can spot statues that embrace classical type pertaining to Versailles as well as that of the fantastical style belonging to that of the romanticism.

Munich is home to many castles, landmarks, and churches will keep the fine arts lover, history buff, and anyone else busy for days, even weeks, trying to see them all.

Munich city center, Marienplatz

Considered to be the “must-see” destination for visitors to Munich, the Nymphenburg Palace was built in the 17th century as a gift from Ferdinand Maria to his wife, Henriette. His heir, Maximilian Emanuel, expanded to the palace by adding symmetrical buildings that span from the central structure. The Nymphenburg Palace also features a large landscaped park with meticulously manicured lawns, trees, shrubs, and fountains. The associated pavilions include Amalienburg, a hall that is secular in shape and lined with mirrors; Badenburg, which houses the first modern heated pool; Pagodenburg, which was built with a mixture of French and Oriental designs; and Magdaleneklause, which was constructed to resemble ruins and built to honor Mary Magdalen.

The astounding BMW Museum features the history and technological advances of BMW. Motor sports fans will enjoy the history of BMW’s role in sports racing and its array of various prototypes on display. The BMW Museum is currently temporarily closed to the public for renovation, but will reopen in early 2007.

Munich Nymphenburg palace

Historic churches of note that are often visited in Munich include Alter Peter or the Church of Saint Peter, the Cathedral Church of our Lady, Theatinerkirche, and Asamkirche.

Munich is the home of the world-famous Oktoberfest festival and houses the Beer and Oktoberfest museum, which is open year round. The museum gives visitors a lesson in the history of beer and Oktoberfest and is housed in one of Munich’s oldest historical buildings.

The Oktoberfest festival celebrates Bavarian Beer and lasts for several weeks each year starting in September and ending in October. The tradition is nearly 200 years old and is probably Munich’s largest attraction each year. Festival events include the Oktoberfest Costume and Rifleman’s Parade, open-air music, beer tents, and distinct German cuisine feasts. Oktoberfest draws over six million visitors each year, with rates of attendance increasing with each passing year.

Munich is a very modern and cosmopolitan city and is an imperative hub to the high-fashion and glamour industry. Famous, world-renowned artists, designers, clothiers, actors, and models flock to the city to set trends, be seen, and make themselves known to the world.

Munich Oktoberfest

It is also a very active community for the family and outdoors enthusiasts. The Zugspitze is the highest mountain in Germany, towering over 2,900 meters above sea level.  The Munich Zoo is a popular attraction and houses over 460 species of domestic and exotic animals. It has the distinction of being the first “geo zoo” in the world. Finally, the Isar River is a well-loved target for rafting fans for its natural beauty.

Linderhof palace,

The Linderhof Palace embraced a private atmosphere as when compared to the other palaces, and at the palace, there are four rooms with that of a real function. The Hall of Mirrors had been put to use as a living room by the king, as the mirrors had created phenomenal effects by reflecting the light thrown out by the candles during the night, and the king was also habituated to stay awake during the nights. The two tapestry chambers had no specific role, and the dining room gets spotted towards the east, as it is surrounded by that of the blue and pink cabinets.

The bedchamber at the Linderhof Palace had been completely rebuilt in 1884, and the position pertaining to the bed found on the steps found in the alcove, as that gets closed by gilded balustrade gives the look of an altar. The gardens that surround the Linderhof Palace are held as one of the gorgeous creations related to historicist garden design. The park unveils elements that have been influenced by Baroque style and that of Italian Renaissance gardens.

Neuschwanstein castle, Bavaria, Germany

The third floor of the Neuschwanstein castle is the proof of Ludwig’s regard for Wagner’s operas. Literally taking the meaning of ‘New Swan Castle’, the Neuschwanstein castle embraces a fairytale look, as it was erected during the 19^th century. The construction that was started during 1869 extended till Ludwig’s death, which happened in 1886. The splendorous landscape surrounding the castle and the charming inner garden of the castle that gets surrounded by that of a walled garden enhances the beauty surrounding the Neuschwanstein castle. There is also an artificial cave that can be spotted here.

Among the 14 rooms that were built before Ludwig II’s death, two story throne rooms had embraced the Byzantine style, along with that of wall paintings that portrayed angels. But there is no throne to be spotted here as Ludwig had died before the completion of Neuschwanstein castle.

The town offers a remarkable historical panorama and great beauty. Situated at the base of the mount highlands of Bavaria, Fussen is calculated to be 2650ft above sea level. This earns its reputation as the town with the highest elevation in Germany. As peculiar to many places in the country, ancient historic sights mark the landscape of the town. These can be viewed as you take a walk around.

Fussen old town

Sincerely, this destination is bound to engage everyone who is visiting. You will also be fascinated by the spectacle of the rivers and mountains.

The Schloss Hohensschewangau is the abode where King Ludwig II used to spend summer. This name connotes Castle of the High Mountains. It is situated on the site of an antiquated fortification. As you tread the floors the castle, you will be stepping on the places where the royalty of Germany trod in ancient times.

To make the visit more interesting there are guides to the history of that place written in different language so that no visitor will remain ignorant of the its wonderful history.

Hohenschwangau castle

The Neuschwanstein Castle is another place that everyone who comes to Fussen must make sure to visit. It is one of the most popular castles around the town and it is similar to the castles talked about in fairy tales because of its towers which are helical in shape.

You will also find enormous stone walls here. Wagner was much loved by the monarch, King Ludwig II and the name of the castle was therefore derived from Swan Knight in one of his theatricals.

The adulation which the King accorded Wagner is depicted in some of the paintings that can be seen on the castle walls. From St Mary’s bridge, flanking the castle, a superlative sight of the building can be achieved. Here, it is not uncommon to see tourists taking snapshots of the site.

Neuschwanstein Castle

Furthermore, there is available for your pleasure, water sports activities on the Hopfensee and Weissensee beaches. The cable cars will also make your visit a remarkable one. From the cars you can experience a surpassing vista. The available lodging and menus contain both local and transcontinental cuisine, bound to be appreciated by all.

The symbol of Nuremberg, which is the Imperial Castle that dates back to the Early Roman Empire is one of the gorgeous palaces to set sight on. The main building unveils sumptuously furnished rooms, the deep well, the Roman double chapel and the Sinewell Tower. The visitor also can find the collection of old weapons and utensils an intriguing sight. Another important building that draws the attention of the traveler is the Gothic St Lorenz-Kirche.

Nuremberg castle district

The Gooseherd Fountain spotted opposite the City Hall unveils the bronze figure related to the gooseherd, which is a wonderful work art in bronze, and the fountain here was created during 1550. The Crafts Yard at Nuremberg is yet another attraction where the visitor can get soaked up in the rich ambience to embark upon exciting strolls here. The shops, lanes, the traditional crafts and the craftsmen happen to be an astonishing sight that beholds the attention of the traveler as when he visits the Crafts Yard.

There are many churches at Nuremberg that deserve a visit, as the list includes the our Lady’s Church, St Sebaldus Church and St Lorenz Church among the many other churches here. The Hangman Bridge that dates back to the year 1457, and which took the form of a wooden bridge has a long story to tell the tourists. Another splendid construction of the past that kindles the curiosity of an onlooker is the medieval tower houses, as the Nassau House with the octagonal corner towers, crenellated top storey and low storey dating back to the thirteenth century is a building to marvel at. The Hauptmarkt set amid picturesque settings is yet another attraction that attracts the attention of the tourists, and this happens to be a notable market for gingerbread.

Nuremberg, Church of Our Lady

One of the most exotic buildings to be found within Germany is the Staatstheater at Nuremberg, as this gorgeous theatre building offers three sections related to drama, opera and ballet. The Fountain of Virtues found in Nuremberg and which dates back to the year 1589 is yet another gem to be found here. Nuremberg, soaked in history, has many historical delights that amaze the many travelers who set foot to explore this region.

Bavaria’s capital Munich is well known as the gateway to the Alps – here you are barely an hour’s train ride away from the highest mountain in Germany – the Zugspitze – and before you reach these stunning Alpine scenes, there are beautiful forests and lakes, including the fine spa town of Tegernesee. Thus already, we find stunning alpine landscapes, crystal clear lakes, lush forests, relaxing spa resorts and historic towns.

Nuremberg, Church of Our Lady

Further north, we can pick out Nuremberg as offering a city steeped in medieval history, being the birthplace of Renaissance artist and engraver Albrecht Durer and a fine example of medieval City-state architecture.

Another great city is Regensburg belongs which is one of an exclusive group now nominated by UNESCO as Mankind’s World Heritage. Regensburg’s Old Town is a gem, with almost a thousand listed buildings are banded together in a small area. A walk through the narrow streets here, is a walk through history spanning thousands of years, ranging from Roman times, the imperial German emperors and kings and onwards to a the medieval splendour of the Stone Bridge.

Regensburg, Cathedral

More charm and delight is on offer at Füussen. Set in the fabulous surroundings of the Allgäu Alps and nearby to King Ludwig’s fairytale castles Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. This is an ideal place for a romantic getaway. Fussen has 700 years of history, and has typical Bavarian charm of quaint cobbled streets and a pretty medieval centre framed in the distance by the ever-present Alps.

Füssen old town

But modern amenities also prevail, of course. For the sports enthusiast, the holiday resort of Oberstaufen offers perfect conditions for golf. Three 18-hole courses offer lessons for beginners and plenty of sport for professional expert golfers. Here again in the Allgau Alps, a guest card gives free cable-car rides, use of the adventure swimming pool Aquaria, entrance to museums and much else besides.

In spring, summer and autumn, 300 kilometres of hiking paths, and there is a wide range of activities from paragliding to surfing on the nearby Alpsee, from tennis to mountain biking and from canoeing to horse riding.

Again for outdoor enthusiasts, Ruhpolding is superb for anyone who loves nature and is looking for active recreation. Here in Upper Bavaria’s mountains, Ruhpolding has stunning scenic beauty and plenty of Bavarian hospitality. During the summer months in Ruhpolding, the crystal clear alpine lakes provide a cool, refreshing place to take a dip and the miles of cycling trails and walking paths offer plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding vistas.

You can take the Traun stream through the broad valley all the way up to the peaks of the Bavarian Alps, and also enjoy a cable-car ride to the summit of the Rauschberg. Or it is possible to take the chair-lift up the Unternberg. In either case, the trip is repaid with superb vistas, and the possibility to join mountain nature trails where friendly mountain inns dotted along these routes allow for plenty of refreshment courtesy of Bavarian specialities.

With spectacular scenery, a great infrastructure for outdoor leisure pursuits, medieval towns and villages, vineyards and farms and a proud history, Bavaria is really much more than its famous beer and lederhosen!

Munich, Town hall building in Marienplatz

With cheap flights from the UK and other European cities, Bavaria is accessible for short weekend trips and longer stay, multi-centre holidays. It is region which really repays a second look for the holidaymaker looking for plenty of outdoor leisure and sporting activity as well as cultural exploration.
Author: Jimi St.Pierre writes for several Travel Companies in the UK, including Travelwhere Ltd and Country Connect, the latter being a publisher of a daily news feed to the UK travel industry. Country Connect has a UK Tourist Office Directory, cheap flights and airport parking at http://www.countryconnect.co.uk