Bayreuth Germany is famous for its annual Bayreuth Festival, which celebrates the works of composer Richard Wagner. But there is so much more to this Bavarian town than opera! From markets to landmarks, bratwurst to Universität, Bayreuth tourismus has something for everyone to enjoy.
Bayreuth Tourismus: Places of Interest
No matter what time of year you visit, Bayreuth has activities to fill a weekend any time of the year!
Universität Bayreuth
Opened in 1975, University of Bayreuth is a research university that focuses on creative and courageous innovation. It is renown for the Bavarian Research Institute for Experimental Geochemistry and Geophysics.
Even if you are not a student or faculty member, University of Bayreuth invites the public to tour its botanical gardens and attend musical performances. Check their website for upcoming events and ticket availability!
Bayreuther Winterdorf
Christmas markets in Germany are truly something special to experience, and Bayreuth’s is exceptionally charming. Every holiday season, booths full of glühwein, bratwurst, crepes, housewares, Christmas ornaments, and holiday treats fill the market.
And while the Winterdorf (“winter village”) is open every day of December until Christmas, you can see special performances on the weekends. Stroll through the stalls with a mulled wine and enjoy the winter wonderland!
Bayreuth is just a 1-hour drive from Weiden in der Oberpfalz!
Eremitage
The Eremitage is a public Baroque garden with small castle ruins and temples. Margravine Wilhelmine (also known as Princess Wilhelmine of Prussia) designed the Sun Temple as well as various fountains throughout the property. She and her husband Frederick wanted the area to be like a miniature Versailles, but they never realized their vision due to near bankruptcy.
Today, visitors can walk through the gardens and dine at the restaurant inside the old palace. The restaurant offers a selection of traditional German dishes, and Café Orangerie serves smaller treats such as coffee and ice cream.
Additionally, the Eremitage hosts public events, like their Sommernachtsfest and their murder mystery dinner shows. And if you are interested in hosting a private event, they have options for that as well!
Festspielhaus
Originally, Wagner did not intend to build it in Bayreuth, but after visiting the city in 1872, he fell in the love with it. Construction finished four years later, and the first Bayreuth Festival was held on August 13, 1876.
But while the construction time is impressive for the nineteenth century, it nearly bankrupted him. Luckily, King Ludwig II supported Wagner’s work and provided the funds to complete the building. Now, tourists from all over the world visit the city to enjoy Wagner’s work in its intended theatre. Tickets for the Bayreuth Festival sell quickly, so be sure to claim yours!
Richard Wagner Museum
After years of reconstruction, the Richard Wagner Museum re-opened to the public in July 2015. Visitors can tour his living areas and work space within his home (named “Wahnfried”), as well as visit his son Siegfried’s home. There, tourists can learn more about Wagner’s ideologies and the family’s personal relationship with Adolf Hitler.
The newest addition to the museum highlights the history of the Bayreuth Festival. The permanent exhibit has original costumes and stage equipment on display. The museum also has a variety of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Bayreuth Opernhaus (UNESCO Welterbe)
The Margravial Opera House was completed in 1750 by French architect Joseph Saint-Pierre, with the help of Margravine Wilhelmine and her husband. The Baroque style theatre originally hosted works by Wilhelmine after its construction. And over 100 years later, Wagner’s operas also graced the stage.
The Markgräfliches Opernhaus (also called the Bayreuth Opernhaus) joined the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2012, and closed for extensive renovations later that year. After its original wooden interior was restored and preserved, the Opera House opened to the public in 2018.
Fabrik Bayreuth
If you’re interested in an activity that is a bit more festive, head to Fabrik Bayreuth! Their DJs spin hits from the 90s, 2000s, and new electronic favorites. They even host Bürgerfest after-parties!
Bayreuth Tourismus: Where to Eat
There is no shortage of beer and bratwurst in Bayreuth Germany!
Liebesbier
At most restaurants throughout Bavaria, you will not see a wide variety of beers offered. But at Liebesbier, you will find all kinds of domestic and international beers! And to complement your foamy beverage, they also have an extensive food menu. If the sun is out, be sure to make a reservation for the patio!
Bayreuth Bratwurst
If you just want a quick snack while you walk around Bayreuth, stop at the Bayreuth Bratwurst stand! Sometimes two bratwurst on a roll is just what you need between meals.
Dubliner Pub
For something a little less German (but only a little), the Dubliner Pub on Wittelsbacherring serves Irish beers and whiskeys until 4 a.m.! And if you’re hungry, they also have sandwiches, pizzas, and bar food to fix your munchies.
FAQ: What is Bayreuth Known For?
While the city is known for the Opera and Wagner’s history, Bayreuth University is a well-respected educational and research institution. Plus, it’s home to the Maisel Beer World. You can find their beer throughout Bavaria!
Visit Bayreuth
Bayreuth, Germany has things to do all-year round. See the blooming Eremitage gardens in Spring, attend the Bayreuth Festival in the summer, and enjoy the Winterdorf at the holidays! And in between events, tour the various sites and dine at the restaurants for a taste of Bavaria. No matter when you visit, Bayreuth, Germany is ready to entertain!
Looking for more local things to do in Bavaria? Visit these restaurants in Weiden in der Oberpfalz!
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