Things To Do
in Simbach am Inn
Simbach am Inn is a small Bavarian town perched on the Inn River near the Austrian border, offering a picturesque mix of historic streets and riverside scenery. Its compact center features timber-framed houses, a friendly main square, and easy access to nature in the Inn valley. Visitors enjoy relaxed Bavarian hospitality, traditional taverns, and convenient day trips to Regensburg, Passau, and cross-border strolls in Austria.
The town serves as a calm base for exploring southern Bavaria and the Inn River corridor at a gentle pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey in Simbach am Inn with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional German pastries and coffee. Take a stroll through the picturesque town center, marveling at the charming architecture and vibrant squares. Don’t forget to visit the historic St. Peter and Paul Church to appreciate its stunning interior.
After lunch at a quaint restaurant, immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the Simbach Museum, which showcases the town's rich history and art. Spend the afternoon wandering through the local shops, where you can find unique artisanal products and souvenirs. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the banks of the River Inn, taking in the beautiful scenery.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious dinner at a traditional Bavarian beer garden, sampling local dishes such as Weisswurst and pretzels. Following dinner, relax with a drink while enjoying live music or a cultural performance in the town square. Conclude your day with a moonlit stroll through the serene streets of Simbach.
Set out early for a trip to Burghausen, home to one of the longest castles in Europe, where you can explore its fascinating history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy breakfast at a cafe in Burghausen before beginning your castle adventure. The picturesque old town, with its colorful buildings, is definitely worth a visit.
After touring the castle, have lunch at a local restaurant and try some hearty Bavarian fare. Spend the afternoon exploring more of Burghausen's charming streets or take a leisurely walk along the Salzach River. Consider stopping by the local shops for unique crafts and regional specialties.
End your day with a relaxing dinner in Burghausen, enjoying the river view as the sun sets. Sample regional wines or beers while reflecting on your day’s adventures. Head back to Simbach am Inn for a peaceful night at your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $70-140 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week (single traveler) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, walkable town center with historic architecture
- Proximity to the Inn River and easy access to nature
- Friendly locals and authentic Bavarian hospitality
- Great base for day trips to Regensburg, Passau, and Austria
- Small town amenities compared with larger cities
- Limited nightlife options for those seeking a club scene
- Some services may have limited English-speaking staff in smaller venues
- Weather can be variable; plan for rain or cooler evenings
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Simbach am Inn
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic stretch along the Inn with reflective water and gentle morning or golden-hour light—great for landscape and portrait shots.
Historic square with timber-framed architecture and a charming town hall facade, ideal for architectural photography.
Elevated view over the town; capture the skyline and church details from the tower (where permitted).
Picturesque river crossing at sunset, offering silhouettes of the town and water reflections.
Wide open spaces along the river with soft light and distant hills—perfect for wide landscapes.
Food in Simbach am Inn
Simbach am Inn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted pork with traditional bread dumplings and rich gravy; a Bavarian staple often found in local Gasthäuser.
Must-Try!
A creamy Bavarian cheese spread served with soft pretzels; great as a shareable starter in beer gardens.
Cheesy spaetzle with fried onions; comfort-food classic often enjoyed in a rustic dining room.
Warm apple strudel with vanilla sauce or whipped cream; a satisfying end to a Bavarian meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers’ market with fresh bread, cheeses, sausages, fruit, and seasonal produce; a good spot to sample local treats.
Casual al fresco options along the Inn with pretzels, sausages, and small bites perfect for a quick lunch or picnic by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite forms: greet with Grüß Gott or Hallo in casual settings; address strangers with Sie unless invited to use Du.
Be punctual for appointments; keep conversation polite and respectful, especially in casual dining or shops.
Observe local quiet hours in residential areas, especially late evenings and Sundays in some neighborhoods.
Safety
Tipping in Simbach am Inn
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but modest: rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafés.
Cash is widely accepted. Card payments (EC/Girocard) are common, and contactless payments are increasingly available in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; expect showers. Great for city walking, markets reopening, and garden photography.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours; outdoor cafés, river swims nearby, and plenty of outdoor events. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Golden light and harvest markets; cooler temperatures and colorful foliage make for picturesque walks and photo opportunities.
Cold with possible snow; quiet streets and festive markets in nearby towns. Dress warmly and enjoy cozy indoor dining.
Simbach am Inn at Night
Hiking in Simbach am Inn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat-to-gentle trails along the Inn, ideal for a relaxed hike or long stroll with river views.
Shaded forest paths with gentle climbs, offering wildlife viewing and peaceful woodland scenery.
Short climbs to viewpoints in the surrounding hills provide panoramic shots of the river and town.
Airports
How to reach Simbach am Inn by plane.
Major international hub about 1.5–2 hours by car or rail from Simbach; convenient for international flights and connections.
Smaller but well-connected airport about 1–1.5 hours away by car; easy for short-haul flights and regional connections.
Austria-based airport within roughly 1–1.5 hours; good for central European connections and occasional low-cost flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A welcoming, safe town center with parks, markets, and walkable streets ideal for family outings.
A relaxed pace and accessible amenities cater to retirees seeking quiet charm and nature nearby.
People who live in nearby towns and cross the border for work or study, appreciating easy access to Austria and beyond.
Visitors drawn to Bavarian culture, river scenery, and short countryside escapes from larger cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular local pastime with amateur clubs and regional matches that draw community support.
The Inn River Trail and nearby routes attract cyclists for day trips and scenic rides.
Forest and hillside trails around the Inn valley are favored for easy to moderate day hikes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simbach am Inn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bavarian dishes can be adapted: ask for dumplings or cheese-based plates, or enjoy hearty roasted vegetables and salads at most Gasthäuser.
Inform staff about gluten intolerance; many places offer gluten-free bread or dumplings, and some menus feature gluten-free pasta or salads.
Most meat dishes can be prepared without dairy; request oil-based sauces or dairy-free sides when ordering.