Fall in Bavaria: Castles, Forests and Great Beer
Bavaria in fall is a mix of quiet trails, loud beer halls, golden trees, and cool mountain air. The summer rush is gone, the forests are changing color, and there’s something going on in nearly every town. It’s a season made for eating well, walking more, and getting a better sense of how deeply tradition runs in this part of Germany
Munich in Fall
If you’re heading to Bavaria in fall, start in Munich. Oktoberfest kicks off in mid-September and runs into October, filling the city with massive beer tents, brass bands, and thousands of people in dirndls and lederhosen. It’s a huge celebration, but underneath all the noise is something distinctly local. Read all about Oktoberfest here.
But Munich doesn’t shut down when Oktoberfest ends. Walk through the Englischer Garten to see the trees turn gold, visit the Viktualienmarkt for fall produce and hot snacks, and head to Nymphenburg Palace for quieter strolls through royal gardens. The cooler weather makes the city feel more relaxed—and easier to enjoy.
Neuschwanstein Castle in Fall
Neuschwanstein is one of the most visited spots in Germany, but fall is when it feels more like a real castle and less like a movie set. The crowds are smaller, the hike up is cooler, and the trees surrounding the cliffs shift into deep red and orange. Skip the inside tour and take your time on the trails around the castle. The views from the Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) are worth the climb.
Hiking in the Bavarian Alps
Fall is the best time to explore the Bavarian Alps. The summer heat has faded, and the trails are open without the usual crowds. If you want a challenge, hike around Zugspitze, Germany’s tallest peak. For something easier but just as scenic, walk the trail around Lake Eibsee. The reflection of the mountains in the still water, framed by fall color, is hard to beat.
Pack layers, bring water, and start early. Some trails close in late fall as the snow returns, but until then, it’s all crisp air and clear skies.
Berchtesgaden and Königssee
If you’re looking for somewhere quieter, head to Berchtesgaden. This alpine town feels tucked away, with steep peaks, winding roads, and plenty of forest. It’s a good base for boat rides on Königssee, where the lake stretches between sheer cliffs and pine trees that catch the autumn light.
The Eagle’s Nest is nearby if you want a heavy dose of history with your hike. Just check the access—it often closes by the end of October.
Fall Food and Traditions
Fall in Bavaria is all about comfort food. Menus feature game meats like venison and wild boar, hearty dumplings, and rich sauces. Kaiserschmarrn, a shredded pancake served with fruit and powdered sugar, shows up on dessert menus and makes a great cold-weather breakfast.
This is also when you’ll see Kirchweih festivals in many towns, celebrating church dedications with parades, food, and music. In the alpine regions, Almabtrieb is a seasonal highlight. Farmers bring their cows down from the mountains, dressing them with bells and flowers for a day of music and celebration.
Fall is the time when Bavaria feels the most balanced. It’s cool but not cold, festive but not overcrowded. You can lean into the noise of Oktoberfest or disappear into the trees. Whether you’re hiking, castle-hopping, eating something heavy and warm, or just taking in the scenery—fall here gives you space to do it.
Know Before You Go
When to visit: Late September through early November, with Oktoberfest running mid-September to early October
How to get there: Fly into Munich or take the train from other major German cities
Where to stay: Stay in Munich for festivals, Garmisch for hiking, or Füssen for castle views
What to pack: Layers, waterproof shoes, and something warm for alpine mornings
Planning More Fall Travel In Europe?
If you’re looking for other fall destinations, check out:
Fall in Champagne – Wine tastings, harvest season and quiet countryside towns
Fall in Zermatt – Cooler air, empty trails and Matterhorn views
Fall in Ljubljana – Cobblestone walks, riverside cafes and castle views
Fall in Budapest – Thermal baths, riverside walks and ruin pub nights
Fall in Copenhagen – Cozy weather, cinnamon buns and rollercoasters
Fall in Burgundy – Vineyards and charming villages
Fall in Tuscany – Harvest festivals and truffle markets
Fall in Amsterdam – Canals, stroopwafel and fall bike rides