Bavaria tourism remains strong with regional festivals and high visitor numbers

Bavaria continues to maintain high tourism levels in 2026, with approximately 18.6 million guest arrivals recorded in the first half of the year. While guest numbers rose by 2.0 percent compared to 2025, the average length of stay has not increased at the same rate, showing a trend toward more frequent but shorter visits.

Regional festivities are a major draw during the summer and autumn months. In the Franconia region, the Sandkerwa festival in Bamberg is a significant event, attracting an estimated 200,000 visitors. The festival features traditional activities such as the Fischerstechen (fisherman's joust) on the Regnitz river and various parades through the historic old town.

Other regional highlights include various folk festivals (Volksfeste) across Bavaria, such as the Gäubodenvolksfest in Straubing and the Rosenheimer Herbstfest. These events offer local cultural experiences, though beer prices vary by location, generally remaining lower than those expected at the Munich Oktoberfest. Travel destinations such as Landshut, known for Burg Trausnitz, and the Schladming-Dachstein region also remain prominent for cultural and slow-travel tourism.