Bavaria is a paradise for world travelers. Located in the southern region of Germany, Bavaria is quite diverse. From story-book castles to the scenic Alps and fertile Danube plain. But Bavaria not only has several beautiful and famous sites but also holds numerous world records through its 2,000-year history. The region is proud to claim many of the world’s oldest and largest accomplishments.

The largest state in Germany is more than beer, pretzels and lederhosen. It offers stunning landscapes and amazing cities that exude a cultural distinction. Visitors will find beautiful and rugged mountain scenery. Plus, food lovers will discover magical, culinary flavors suit all palates. In addition, one can celebrate countless ancient customs to this day.

Discover intriguing stories about times past. Bavaria’s has a remarkable history. With these stories, impressive and unique historic accomplishments become apparent. For example, learn about the determination, creativity and strength of Bavaria and its people as a culture and lifestyle. Yet, there is more just below the surface. Bavaria is proud to boast several world records. Below are just a few of them.

World Records

1) Oldest Social Housing: Augsburg is Bavaria’s third largest city and by far the oldest with over 2,000 years of history. Its impressive stream and canal system earned the city on the Romantic Road the coveted title of UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019. Augsburg’s most famous son is Jakob Fugger. 500 years ago, the richest man in the world. With his “Fuggerei“, he created a unique monument to charity. In 1521, he signed the charter for the construction of a housing estate in which Augsburg citizens in need, could receive dignified accommodation. Hence, creating the first official social housing in the world. To this day, it still remains the oldest of its kind.

2) Largest Cathedral Organ: Located in the city of Passau, the organ inside St. Steven’s Cathedral is the largest organ in the world. There are 17,974 pipes and 233 registers. Therefore, international travelers need to visit the “City of Three Rivers” and see the amazing cathedral organ. Also, between the months of May and October, enjoy an organ concert.  They take place every day at 12:00pm and every Thursday at 7:30pm.

3) Largest Continuous Ceiling Fresco: The ceiling fresco in the staircase of the Würzburg Residence (photo above) is the largest continuous ceiling fresco in the world. Measuring 19 m x 32 m and restored by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. He’s the greatest fresco painter of the 18th century. Due to the vaulting, its surface area covers 677 m². Once the former residence of the prince bishops of Würzburg. The residence was built between 1720 and 1744 and completed in 1780. Interestingly, it is one of the most important palaces in Europe. In addition, it has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site.

4) Largest glass roof: The transparent acrylic glass pavilion roof of the Munich Olympic Stadium at the Olympia Park is amazing.  The roof was specially designed and built for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games. Also, it measures 85,000 m². Thus, it is the largest glass roof in the world. Today, visitors can book a tour and climb to the glass roof of the stadium. The Olympia Park and Olympic stadium offer many different events throughout the year. Therefore, it is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the outdoors in magical Munich.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your luxury vacation to Bavaria, Germany. See the top destination sites, including the world record places referenced above.

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Rothenberg Germany

Germany is a land of extremes. In this ancient land, you’ll find geographic wonders ranging from the sand dunes of the North Friesian Islands to the towering Alps to idyllic pastoral land dotted with enchanting villages. You can visit castles, sample some of the world’s best beer and wine, explore historic sites and so much more.

Of course, you’ll want to visit Bavaria, home to Munich with its many unique towns and villages, of which Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most famous. The castle, by the same name, was the inspiration for Disney’s signature Sleeping Beauty castle.

There are plenty more interesting destinations, so consider planning a trip other regions, as well. You might want to journey to Germany’s most northerly province, Schleswig Holstein, and visit Hamburg and the surrounding area. Another idea would be to explore the Black Forest, which boasts picturesque scenery, relaxing spas and even casinos.

If you cannot make up your mind as to where to travel, let prolific travel writer Karen Brown do the work for you. On her popular website, Karen Brown’s World of Travel, she has created several different itineraries for travelers to Germany. Her suggestions include places of interest, maps, regional tips and excellent places to stay. The following hotels and inns were chosen by her readers as the top lodging choices in Germany.

Built in 1730, the Hotel Bulow Residenz in Dresden is a charming Baroque relic painted a sunny shade of yellow. Hotel Bulow is across the river from the city center, so it offers close access to Dresden’s many attractions, but is located in a quiet, peaceful setting. Elegant guest rooms range from cozier single rooms to more spacious suites decorated with antiques. Breakfasts are often served in a vine-covered courtyard. The hotel has a formal restaurant as well as an intimate piano bar in the wine cellar. The hotel was chosen by Karen Brown readers as Germany’s “Most Romantic” lodging.

A trip to Rothenberg is a bit like waking up in the middle of a fairy tale — you almost expect to see Hansel or Gretel skipping down the streets of this medieval village. A stay at the Romantik Hotel Markusturm is all part of the enjoyment of a visit to this magical town. The guest rooms, decorated by host Lilo Berger, are welcoming, comfortable and eclectic. Lilo’s husband, Stephan, creates the wonderful dinners; his wine soup and homemade beer are among the highlights. Karen Brown readers have chosen this delightful hotel as the winner of the “Warmest Welcome” award for Germany.

The Gasthaus Die Krone in the Black Forest town of Staufen is a delight. This family-run hotel is located in a pedestrian-only area, so it enjoys a quiet and peaceful spot. The exterior of the building is charming with shuttered windows, window boxes bursting with color and a mural depicting the Revolution of 1848. Guest rooms are simple and pleasing with light pine furnishings and beds topped with white duvets and fluffy pillows. The hosts are friendly and welcoming and in addition to the guest rooms, there is a restaurant where dinner is served nightly. The hotel won the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for “Greatest Value” in Germany.

The Romantik Hotel Benen-Diken-Hof is an excellent spot for every type of traveler. Its location is unusual, located on a sand-dune island in Germany’s northernmost spot; the hotel is surrounded by acres of prairie land. There is a wellness center where guests can enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, as well as a sauna and swimming pool. The inn’s restaurant serves breakfast far longer than traditional breakfast hours, so you need not rise early and rush to get in the morning meal. Children will adore the hotel as there is plenty of room to run and play, and the hotel has a children’s program, baby sitting services and a room filled with toys. Hiking, fishing and golf are among the many local activities available. Karen Brown readers have chosen Hotel Benen-Diken-Hof as Germany’s best “Splendid Splurge.

Author:Tess Kirkpatrick loves writing about boutique hotels in Germany and other travel destinations.