Basing yourself at one of Munich’s many surrounding campgrounds, a visit to Dachau is an important pilgrimage, though indeed a solemn experience. Established in 1933, Dachau was one of the first Nazi concentration camps. Nowadays, the site has been transformed into an incredibly moving museum and memorial. Though once a place of unspeakable horror, Dachau today serves as a sobering reminder of the past, so that history does not repeat itself.

Plan to arrive in Schwangau early, as its most popular attraction draws huge crowds of tourists year-round. The enchanting Neuschwanstein Castle is worth it, though. Perched on a hilltop high above the Bavarian Alps, it looks like something straight out of a fairytale, because well, it is! The iconic limestone façade and deep blue turrets served as Walt Disney’s inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle at Disneyland.

Driving east on the famous Autobahn, you’ll reach Austria in no time. The attractive city of Salzburg is just twenty minutes from the border, with Alpine mountains to the south and the Salzach River running through its centre. The left bank contains Salzburg’s medieval Old Town, watched over by the imposing hilltop fortress, Hohensalzburg. On the right bank, you’ll find the captivating Mirabell Palace and its opulent gardens, one of many Salzburg filming locations for The Sound of Music.

Zipping back towards Munich, the final stop on this Bavaria travel itinerary is the stunning Lake Chiemsee. Nicknamed the “Bavarian Sea” on account of its enormous size, Chiemsee is a popular overnight trip from Munich with a charming nearby town centre and multiple lakeside campgrounds. On the largest of the lake’s three islands, you’ll find the extravagant Herrenchiemsee Palace, another castle built by the vain King Ludwig II. Styled after Versailles, the palace remains unfinished and has since been transformed into a museum and gallery.