Best time to travel to Bavaria

Birdwatching in Bavaria

Most bird species in Bavaria are best spotted during spring, summer, and autumn

Best time: March–October

Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching

In Bavaria, you can observe most Central European Alpine species and abundant bird life. Some of the best birding areas in the Alpine region are Allgäu, the North Tyrolean Limestone Alps, the Karwendel Mountains, and parts of the Salzburg Limestone Alps in the Berchtesgaden region. Most of them can't be reached during winter though. The best period starts in May and lasts till July. In summer as well Ismaniger, Moosburger, the Echinger reservoirs, and the lakes Ammersee and Starnberger See are worth a visit. The river valley region, the Lower Inn, the Danube near Aholfing, or the Donaumoos near Guenzburg are good to visit during the breeding and migration seasons—the spring and autumn period. There is also nothing special to see during winter. But in winter you can visit the Starnberger See, Chiemsee, and Ammersee. The most common bird species you can observe in Bavaria are Divers, Night Heron, Little and Great White Egrets, and many, many more.

Practical info

What is the best time to visit Bavaria for birdwatching?

Birdwatching in Bavaria is ideal between March and October, with May to July being the most recommended period to observe Central European Alpine species and abundant birdlife. Additionally, Ismaniger, Moosburger, the Echinger reservoirs, and the lakes Ammersee and Starnberger See are best enjoyed during summer. Show more

What are the best birding areas in Bavaria?

The birding hotspots in Bavaria include Allgäu, North Tyrolean Limestone Alps, Karwendel Mountains, parts of the Salzburg Limestone Alps in the Berchtesgaden region, the river valley region, the Lower Inn, the Danube near Aholfing, and the Donaumoos near Guenzburg, with Chiemsee, Starnberger See, and Ammersee being the preferred winter destinations. Show more

Where are the Alpine bird species found in Bavaria?

Alpine birds such as Central European Alpine species are often seen in Allgäu, the North Tyrolean Limestone Alps, the Karwendel Mountains, and the Berchtesgaden region, including the Salzburg Limestone Alps. They are also visible in Ismaniger, Moosburger, the Echinger reservoirs, and the lakes Ammersee and Starnberger See during summer. Show more

When is the breeding and migration season in Bavaria?

The breeding and migration season in Bavaria spans from March to October, with the optimal timeframe for observation being May, June, and July, when diverse species are mating and parenting. During these periods, the river valley region, the Lower Inn, the Danube near Aholfing, and the Donaumoos near Guenzburg are some places to visit. Show more

What are some unique bird species that can be observed in Bavaria?

Bavaria is home to an array of bird species, such as Divers, Night Heron, Little and Great White Egrets, Eurasian Spoonbill, Great White Pelican, White-tailed Eagle, Eurasian Wryneck, and Black Woodpecker. The presence of migratory birds also adds to the region's allure, making it an indispensable birding destination. Show more

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