hiking day trips from munich

Top Day Trips from Munich – Including Hiking Trips To Bavarian Alps

By: Author Mattie Bamman

The Top Day Trips from Munich

Bavaria is the most visited state in Germany and most people that visit add Munich to their itinerary. We recommend to stay a few extra days in Bavaria’s capital and enjoy some of the best day trips from Munich to explore the beauty of the region. Whether you are looking to go hiking near Munich in the Bavarian Alps, explore Neuschwanstein Castle or nearby towns and cities, we have something for you. 

Our list of Munich day trips focuses on famous Bavarian castles, a handful of unique hikes, a lot of history, a great brewery, several quintessential Bavarian towns, and more.

In order to plan day trips from Munich , you should become acquainted with the region’s transportation options. The best option, of course, is renting a car, as Germany’s roadways are excellent and you have better access to many more attractions.

Need help planning your trip? Don’t feel like planning this hiking trip to Germany yourself? Then I recommend JayWay Travel! They offer custom trip planning services that tailor your trip to the German and Austrian Alps according to your interest and skill level. Take a look at their 10-Day Alps hiking itinerary here.

List of Day Trips from Munich

Hiking in the bavarian alps.

If you can’t wait to go explore the best hiking trails near Munich and hike in the Bavarian Alps, you can either rent a car and go out on your own or join a guided hike . As a lot of the trailheads are not that easy to get to, especially if you don’t have a car, we recommend the latter. That way, you don’t have to worry about anything, can meet other avid hikers and make the most of your day hiking near Munich. 

Also check our guide on Hiking Gear Packing Essentials before you head to Munich. 

Neuschwanstein Castle and Summer Coaster Run in Rural Bavaria – Perfect for Families

This is the perfect Family day trip from Munich if you like to get outdoors. First, visit the famous Neuschwanstein Castle and then hit the Alpine Coaster for some downhill adventures. Perfect to explore the Bavarian Alps and the beautiful countryside. Book this trip here.  

Alpine Ski Trip in Winter

If you visit Munich in winter and want to have some fun in the snow, this is the easiest way to hit the slopes. Everything is organized for you – transfer, snowboard or ski gear rental, ski pass and all – so you don’t have to worry about anything. The trip will take you to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the home to the 1936 Winter Olympics. You will find any level of slopes, from beginner to black diamond afficionados. Book your Munich Ski Trip here. 

Neuschwanstein Castle

Likely your guidebook features this castle on the cover, and it looks like something out of Disneyland for a reason: The Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland was based on it. And now that the tourism industry has fully taken over the area, you’ll feel like you’re visiting Disneyland, too. Neuschwanstein Castle is probably one of the most popular day trips from Munich. Expect huge crowds, long ticketing queues, and exceptionally well-organized tours led by robotic tour guides.

Neuschwanstein is two hours by train and we highly recommend going with a guided tour, (this one is a small group tour and includes Linderhof palace) as it really takes the hassle out of it. They book the tickets, organize a tour guide and transportation from Munich, so all you need to do is show up (and there isn’t really a way to see Neuschwanstein “off the beaten path” anyways).

If you want to splurge and do something really special, I recommend this Helicopter tour that will take you to some of the most stunning castles and lakes of Bavaria. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you will never forget!

Berchtesgaden & Eagle’s Nest

If you are a history lover, this is a must do for your trip to Bavaria: A visit to the idyllic alpine town of Berchtesgaden and Hitler’s infamous Eagles Nest. You can explore Hitler’s vacation home – the Kehlsteinhaus – which looks just like it did in 1945, plus a beer garden on the terrace in the summer. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful scenery yet at the same time, the place feels eery and haunted.

If you are in Munich, I recommend the Berchtesgaden and Eagles Nest Tour .

Dachau Concentration Camp

Located just a 30-minute train ride from Munich, Dachau was the first Nazi concentration camp ever built, and today it can be toured. Many of the camp’s original buildings remain intact, as well as the crematorium. Guided tours are offered daily.

Take the S2 train from Munich to the Dachau train station; from there, take bus 726 towards Saubachsiedlung to get to the concentration camp. Or you can book a tour that includes your train ticket and a guided tour of the Dachau Concentration Camp.

Königssee & Bavarian Alps

On this tour, you will see some of the most magnificent Bavarian landscapes, the Alps and stunning Königssee. On this 9-hour small group tour, your guide will take your from Munich to the Bavaria Alps’ heart: Berchtesgaden. There you will have a chance to take short boat ride on the beautiful Königssee (King’s Lake) where you can spot the infamous Eagle’s Nest – Hitlers Bavarian vacation residence.

As you drive through the breathtaking  scenery, you will feel like you are driving through the set of Sound of Music.  Book your tour here.  

Romantic Road – Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Rothenburg , albeit quite touristy, is a beautiful little town in Franconia. Its iconic half-timbered houses are instantly recognizable and to be honest; it is the stereotypical German town. While it is a top tourist destination, it is also worth a visit. Some places you just have to see for yourself. Just be aware that you might hear more English than German. This tour will take you along the Romantic Road and you’ll have an extended stay in Rothenburg.

Lake Starnberg

Lake Starnberg is also a 30-minute train ride from Munich, and this beautiful lake is home to several small towns and relaxing lakeside promenades. Completely off the beaten path, this is a great day trip for absorbing Bavarian culture and relaxation.

The town of Starnberg has a castle in the center, and it is worth hiking up to it for the views of the lake.

If you want to experience something special during your time in Starnberg, you can book a dinner cruise on the lake, which includes a 3-course meal, a Water Music Concert and even a firework.

Ferries run from Starnberg, and you can either spend an hour or three puttering around the lake. Ferries run to the town of Berg, which is home to the Castle Berg. King Ludwig II, who resided in the castle, was famously found dead in the lake one day.

Germany’s tallest mountain is a great choice for a day trip from Munich, if you want sweeping alpine views. If you do a guided tour to the Zugspitze, you will be picked up at your hotel and drive to Garmisch-Patenkirchen, where you will take a cable car to the 2962-meter-high peak. Enjoy the stunning views, relax and have a beer at Germany’s highest beer garden and take way too many photos.

If you want to get up close and personal with the mountain and are in good shape, you can also hike up to the top. I highly recommend going on a guided hike, especially since you get all the equipment (you need crampons and harnesses for this hike) through the tour company.

Ammersee Lake and Kloster Andechs

50 minutes by train, this day trip combines a beautiful lake, relaxed hiking, and one of the best places for beer in Germany: Kloster Andechs. The train drops you off in the town of Herrsching , where you can stroll down to the Ammersee Lake. From Herrsching you can get to Kloster Andechs monastery by taking a bus or hiking 45 minutes along a well-marked path. At the monastery, you can take a tour, drink the excellent beer, and eat the famous Schweinehaxe (roasted ham hocks). A must for beer enthusiasts.

If you want to join a group tour for convenience, check out this one leaving from Munich .

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

One of the closest ski resorts to Munich, this Bavarian Alps town is famous for hosting the 1936 Olympics, so if you are interested in some winter fun, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one of your best day trips from Munich options in the winter.

In the summer, hikers can trek down to the Partnachklamm Gorge : a narrow, deep canyon with walkways carved into the cliff walls. You will get wet, but it will be worth it. Other hikes can be reached by taking a breathtaking cable car ride. Garmisch-Partenkirchen can be reached in one hour by express train, and the local train takes around an hour and a half.

If you don’t want to organize this day-trip yourself, you can book this  Tour from Munich , that includes Garmisch-Partenkirchen, as well as the Zugspitze , the highest peak in Germany (don’t worry, you can take a cable car up to the top!).

The second-largest city in Bavaria after Munich, Nuremberg is a true gothic city with one of the most impressive centers in Germany. The Nuremberg castle looms above the cobblestone streets and sunny courtyards.

Ornate churches and buildings are around every corner; the city’s once impenetrable city walls, now broken into sections, stand side-by-side with Renaissance buildings. Nuremberg has a wide selection of art and history museums, including the Reichsparteigelande, which documents the rise of Adolf Hitler. Nuremberg was the Nazi Party’s rally grounds.

Express trains reach Nuremberg in just one hour or you can book a day trip that includes an English-speaking guided tour , and roundtrip train tickets from Munich.

Regensburg is a stunning little city that is worth a visit. Its old town is a UNESCO Heritage Site and you can admire the beautiful medieval center, including the 12th-century bridge crossing the Danube river, the impressive St Peter Cathedral or the Porta Praetoria tower. 

A bit out of the city, you can visit the Walhalla – sort of like the “Hall of Fame” of notable Germans. 

Würzburg

Würzburg is a bit further away, but if you get an early start, you can still make it a day trip from Munich. Located in the North-Bavarian region of Franconia, this city makes wine lovers’ hearts beat faster. Try some Silvaner – the most iconic Franconian grape variety – on the Old Main Bridge. It is a favorite hangout spot for locals to drink a glass of wine, with a stunning view of the Würzburg Fortress.

I also highly recommend a visit to the Würzburger Residenz – another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Especially in the summertime, the gardens are lovely and they offer tours in English.  

Naturpark Altmühltal

The valley of the River Altmühl lies between Munich and Nuremberg. It is home to the Altmühltal Nature Park , where visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and swimming. Rent bicycles and take the Altmühltal  Radweg cycle path along the river to see stunning rock formations and more. Several towns are located inside the park; from Munich, most towns take an hour and a half to reach by train.

Herrenchiemsee Castle

Around two hours by train, this castle is just as grand as Neuschwanstein, but it is much less known. Located on an island in the middle of Chiemsee Lake , the Herrenchiemsee Castle was designed to look like Versaille. The gardens and grounds are expansive, replete of bubbling fountains and sculptures.

Inside you’ll find rooms elaborately decorated with gold leaf as well as the largest porcelain chandelier in the world. Tours are offered daily . To get to the castle, take a train to Prien, then a ferry to the island.

This Austrian city is two hours by train from Munich. It is famous for being the birthplace of Mozart and the filming location for The Sound of Music . Besides reenacting scenes from The Sound of Music , you can tour the stunning Old Town of Salzburg , which is overlooked by the imposing Hohensalzburg Castle.

With all the gothic homes and churches, it’s definitely worth spending a whole day in the city, then unwinding with great beer at Augustiner Bräustübl . Here is a great tour that will take you to Salzburg – a fun day trip from Munich.

All of the day trips above can also be made by train. The local trains run frequently, are reliable, and take you through the Alps, forests, and incredible lake districts. The Bayern ticket is a good deal: it gives you unlimited travel for one day through Bavaria for 21-31 euros. It is only good for local trains, not the IC or EC trains, and some other restrictions apply. It is an especially great deal if traveling in a group of two to five people. The Einfach Raus ticket  is Austria’s version of the Bayern ticket.

To plan day trips from Munch by train, visit bahn.de  , which provides searches in English. To search for routes covered by the Bayern Ticket, check the “Local Transport” box, unchecking the “Prefer fast connections” box.

Munich Day Trips – Pin for later:

Sophie Camp

Sunday 16th of September 2012

I loved Andechs. Would love to have seen the others in this list as well!

The Language Journal

Wednesday 20th of June 2012

This place is quite great.Along the streets of Munich, there are royal avenues, parks and more squares. Museums hold collections of the branches of science. 

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Hiking in the Bavarian Alps from Munich The Top 5 Hiking Destinations

Discover the enchanting la ndscapes of the Bavarian Alps on a hiking tour just a stone's throw away from Munich. Picture-perfect rolling hills, rocky ranges, lush meadows and turquoise lakes await. The Bavarian Alps range among the top reasons why Munich locals love their city so much and man y regularly embark on tours to the nearby mo untains. So why don’t you immerse yourself in the authentic Munich lifestyle by extending your stay beyond the city limits and adding a fun day of hiking to your stay?

There are numerous options and destinations to choose from and making a choice can get a little overwhelming. So let's explore the Top 5  Hiking  Destinations that are accessible within 1 to 2 hours by train from Munich Central Station (or by car, of course). All these destinations offer trails for various levels and ensure a memorable experience in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Get ready for your hiking day trip from Munich!

Hiking From Munich – Destination No 1: Mangfall Mountains

The area around Lakes Schliersee, Spitzingsee and Tegernsee in the Mangfall Mountains (named after the Mangfall River that spoils Munich with its excellent drinking water) is a favourite with Munich locals. So if you want to spend a day like a local would, these are the areas to check out. Here, you’ll find anything from lovely rolling hills and easy trails to more challenging routes in more rocky terrain. Benefit: The travel time from Munich is rather short (around 1 hour) and the many chalets ensure that you can treat your palate to some authentic Bavarian food during or after your hike. Take RB 57 to Tegernsee or RB 55 to Schliersee (with a connecting bus to Spitzingsee).

Not sure where to start with your planning? Keen to learn about the area from a local guide? Choose one of our hand-selected itineraries in the area and enjoy your day with a hiking guide who will meet you at Munich Central Station. Two lovely Easy Hikes in Sound of Music worthy terrain are our Alpine Village Explorer or our Mountain Pastures . You fancy a more challenging hike? Check out Best of Tegernsee . The title says it all really! Or look into The Great Traverse , connecting Schliersee and Tegernsee.

Hiking From Munich – Destination No 2: Upper Isar Valley

Munich wouldn't be Munich without its famous river Isar. This mountain river was once a major transport route (beer, spices, wood and travellers were carried on rafts) and after a major renaturation project in the early 2000s is now a natural jewel with lush meadows, beaches, hangout spots and green water inside the city. So don't miss your chance to check it out while in Munich!

A hiking day trip into the Upper Isar Valley takes you closer to the source of this beautiful river (the actual source is out of reach unless you have your own wheels and a bike – or don't mind some serious hiking). And the surrounding Karwendel, Kochel and Mangfall Mountains near Lenggries are also a sight for sore eyes: Here, you'll find anything from lush and green to dramatic and rocky. Hop onto the RB 56 to Bad Tölz or further south to Lenggries to explore the area or drive down to Sylvensteinspeicher, Jachenau or Ahornboden (this is much easier if you have your own wheels).

Keen to embark on an adventure in the Upper Isar Valley without having to plan? Meet your local hiking guide at Munich Central Station for two Easy Hikes in the area : Our Hiking and Alpine Coaster truly is a tour for all generations with its fun alpine coaster ride(s). Zoom Up  conveniently takes you up the mountain in a cable car. At the top, gorgeous long-distance views of the Alps await and various chalets are at hand to treat our palates!

Hiking from Munich – Destination No 3: Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Mittenwald

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is located between three mountain ranges – the Wetterstein Mountains, the Ester Mountains and the Ammergau Alps – and therefore offers an amazing array of hiking near Munich. The train that runs south from Munich Central Station (RB 6 or RE 61) has several good hiking stops along the way (Eschenlohe, Oberau, Farchant). Garmisch-Partenkirchen itself is famous for its Olympic history: In 1936, during the 3rd Reich, the winter games were held here and a lot of the infrastructure remains. Amongst others the famous and dangerous ski jump. 

Stay on the train for two more stops to Mittenwald, nestled between the Wetterstein and Karwendel Mountains. The cute old village centre is a few steps from the train station and is famous for its artistically painted houses (the so-called Lüftlmalerei) and its violin-making. Famous violin-makers have called Mittenwald home since the 17th century and this village of 7000 inhabitants still boasts around a dozen violin-makers and one of two German schools for violin-making. Several hiking trails start right at the outskirts of the village.

If you don't want to wing it yourself, book a hiking tour from Munich in the area. Munich Wanderland offers two hikes through Partnachklamm – an Easy Hike and a Mid-level Hike . Or join us for Garmisch Delights if you also want to explore the old town centre of Garmisch. 360° takes you through the village of Mittenwald and up a mountain with spectacular views in all directions. Alternatively, look into our Panorama Hike that starts half way between Garmisch and Mittenwald.

Hiking from Munich – Destination No 4: Chiemgau and Inn Valley

For those who want to travel east, the Chiemgau and Inn Valley offer excellent walking and hiking near Munich.

The lush and green Inn Valley boasts great hiking tours on both sides of the river: in the Mangfall Mountains to the west and in the Chiemgau Mountains to the east. A little further south, the Inn River demarcates the border between Austria and Germany. On the Austrian side you’ll find Kufstein with its old castle and the dramatic Kaiser Mountains (that literally translate as Emperor's Mountains) in the backdrop. Look for train RB 54 and its stops for good hiking east of Munich.

Even further east, Lake Chiemsee features great walking and boating options, a beautiful Versailles style castle on Herrenchiemsee island (built by the same king as Neuschwanstein – Ludwig II) and a beautiful monastery and art shops on the smaller Frauenchiemsee island. Check out Train RE 5 for your trip to Prien.

You want to skip the research and spend a day hiking off the beaten track with a local Munich guide? Our beautiful Farmhouse Hike (a Mid-level Hike ) takes you from Munich to the Inn Valley, boasts excellent views of the Kaiser Mountains and you enjoy lunch at a 1000-year old mountain farm.

Hiking from Munich – Destination No 5: Neuschwanstein Trails

If you come to Munich from abroad, chances are that a visit of Neuschwanstein castle is on your agenda anyway. This castle by our all-time favourite fairy-tale king Ludwig II is nestled in the Allgäu Alps and surrounded by great hiking options. Ludwig II was an avid hiker himself. So is there a better way to explore one of his favourite areas than by foot? If you want to experience the surroundings of Neuschwanstein in more depth, you might want to stay for more than one day. But even if you are just out on a day trip from Munich, you can stretch your legs on the nearby hiking trails.

The journey takes 2 hours from Munich Central Station. But beware: Neuschwanstein gets very very busy. It is one of Germany’s favourite sights with over 1.5 million visitors per year. So, if you are into a more laid-back and local experience while you are in Munich, you may want to look into Destinations 1 to 4.

Munich Wanderland offers a secret tour to the castle on a hiking day trip from Munich. It is not listed on our website (because we like to take our guests to less known places). But please drop us a line at [email protected] if you are interested and we’ll send you the offer (castle visit included).

What do I need to bring for my hiking adventure in the Bavarian Alps?

Bring extra layers as the weather in and around the mountains can change quickly. On e of the layers should be waterproof.

Wear sturdy shoes boasting excellent profile and grip (ideally boots). Poles will also be helpful.

Don't forget your hat and sunglasses, along with a generous application of sunscreen.

Bring cash as not all places in the countryside accept cards (Germany is not always as technologically advanced as its stereotype!).

Bring enough water (at least 1.5 to 2 litres per person) and either snacks or enough food for lunchtime if there are no chalets or restaurants along the way.

Carry a first-aid kit on your adventures and stay connected with a fully charged phone for any unexpected emergencies. In case of an emergency, call 112 in Germany or 140 if your phone is dialled into the Austrian network.

Ideally, you’ll pack all of the above into a comfortable backpack with a rain cover. If you don’t have a cover, you can always place your items in a bin liner before putting them into your backpack.

When is the best time to go  hiking near Munich ?

The sweet spot for hiking near Munich is from mid-April to October — when the weather's just right. By mid-April, the snow has usually cleared on the lower mountains. This can vary from year to year, however, and there may still be snowy and icy patches on north faces and in forests. The first snow can also arrive earlier than October. So please keep an eye on the forecasts.

Thunderstorms are a risky affair in the mountains: A thunderstorm can build up literally out of nowhere within 15 minutes, even if it is not in the forecast! So please use a good local weather app (such as Bergfex) for the exact location leading up to your tour and monitor the situation on the day of.

A little warning: The mountains are no playground. More and more people get into trouble and send distress calls every year. But make no mistake: Help can be difficult to come by in some places! We therefore urge you to take all the necessary precautions before you go on your hike. Start early in the day, plan your trip thoroughly and don't overestimate your stamina or surefootedness.

Too much information? We have a simple solution!

You don’t want to plan your hiking day trip into the Bavarian Alps from Munich yourself? Why n ot book one of our delightful hik ing tours starting from Munich Central Station. Your personal guide will meet you at the station and will be with you all the way. Save time that yo u would spend on tedious planning and enjoy the company of one of our three local and personable guides. See our selection of Easy H ikes, Mid-level Hikes, Winter Hikes and Customised Hikes starting from Munich to find your favourite tour.

Mid-level Hikes

Winter Hikes

Customised Tours

7 of the best day trips from Munich: nature, culture, and fairy-tale castles

Jul 7, 2023 • 8 min read

From the lakeside beauty of Berchtesgadan to stunning Bavarian castles, here are the best day trips from Munich © Cavan Images / Getty Images

If the residents of Munich look pleased with their lot, it’s little wonder – this city strides effortlessly between the urban and outdoors. When you've had your fill of palaces, art collections and rollicking beer halls, a little farther afield you'll find plenty of new cultural thrills and outdoor adventures.

Within an hour or so of the Bavarian capital, you hit the Alps, where hiking trails hoof it up to cloud-shredding peaks and winter snows entice skiers. Alternatively, you could have a historic romp of Augsburg or Ulm, or a fantasy-loaded spin of one of "Mad" King Ludwig’s palaces. Here are seven of the best day trips from Munich.

1. It's easy to spend more than a day in Berchtesgaden

Travel time:  2 hours

While doable as a day trip at a push, the Alpine dream that is Berchtesgaden is better savored on a long-weekend detour from Munich. This is where Germany slings its hook into Austria . Landscape-wise, it’s astounding, with jewel-colored lakes and rugged limestone mountains, among them Watzmann (2713m/8900ft), Germany’s second-highest peak.

The Königssee , a fjordlike lake of dazzling jade green, cradled by steep mountain walls, is the scenic icing on the proverbial cake. Much of Berchtesgaden’s surrounds are protected by  Berchtesgaden National Park , a Unesco biosphere reserve crisscrossed by some of Germany’s most exhilarating hiking trails.

For breathtaking views with minimal effort, head up by bus or car to the eyrie-like Eagle’s Nest , a lodge built as a mountaintop retreat for Hitler on his 50th birthday and now a dark-tourism destination. It took 3000 workers two years to hack out the precipitous 6km-long (3.7-mile-long) road to the top. 

How to get to Berchtesgaden from Munich : Berchtesgaden is roughly a two-hour drive southeast of Munich via the A8. The journey takes half an hour longer by train (departures at least hourly).

2. Visit Augsburg, one of Germany's oldest cities

Travel time:  30 minutes/1 hour (train/car)

If you fancy a breather from Munich but are craving culture as opposed to outdoor adventure, Augsburg hits the mark exquisitely. History is writ large across one of Germany’s oldest cities, founded by the stepchildren of Emperor Augustus (hence the name) some 2000 years ago, and made great and glorious by the medieval textile trade.

A city of spires and pretty gables, Augsburg is real eye candy on the 400km (249 miles)  Romantic Road that meanders from the vineyards of Würzburg to the foothills of the Alps. The city’s Old Town revolves around the Rathausplatz , with its fountain honoring the Roman emperor and 17th-century, twin onion dome-spired Rathaus, topped off by a 4m-tall (13ft) pinecone (the city’s emblem).

Factor in a trip to the alley-woven Fuggerei , too, Augsburg’s Catholic welfare settlement, where the rent remains frozen at 1 Rhenish guilder (€0.88) per year. You can also book tickets ahead for the Augsburger Puppenkiste , one of the world’s most fabled puppet theaters bringing fairy tales to life. 

How to get to Augsburg from Munich : Augsburg is an hour’s drive northwest of Munich via the A8 motorway. There are very frequent fast trains (ICE, EC) departing from the Hauptbahnhof. The journey takes roughly 30 minutes.

3. See Schloss Neuschwanstein, an inspiration to Walt Disney 

Travel time:  1 hour, 45 minutes

Part of the fun is getting your tongue in a twist pronouncing the name of this whimsically turreted 19th-century castle, with its incredibly beautiful backdrop of forest and the Alps. King Ludwig II loved to give free rein to his fertile imagination and nowhere more so than here in Schloss Neuschwanstein . Kids’ bedtime story stuff, the Schloss worked its magic on Walt Disney, who used it as the blueprint for Sleeping Beauty’s castle. It also staged an appearance in the 1968 film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang .

With its interior bearing the hallmark of a stage designer (as opposed to an architect), the castle is more exuberant folly than fortress, with its gaudy grotto, Byzantine-style Thronsaal (Throne Room) and Sängersaal (Minstrels’ Hall) dancing with frescoes from Wagner’s opera Tannhäuser.

While you’re up here, allow time for the 10-minute walk to Marienbrücke, a bridge spectacularly straddling the sheer-sided, waterfall-laced Pöllat Gorge, with knockout views of the castle perched high on its wooded crag.

How to get to Schloss Neuschwanstein from Munich : To reach the castle from Munich in a day, get an early start. The castle is a highly scenic one-and-three-quarter hour drive southwest via the A95. Or take the half-hourly train to Füssen (two hours), from where it is an eight-minute bus ride to the castle.

4. Explore unique sights in the city of Ulm

Travel time:  1 hour, 30 minutes

Under-the-radar Ulm deserves to be better feted, not least because this historic juggernaut of a city has sights you won’t see anywhere else: from the world’s most crooked house (as listed in the Guinness World Records) to the world’s tallest cathedral steeple (161.5m/530ft high), the world’s oldest zoomorphic sculpture (aged 30,000 years), and the birthplace of superstar physicist Albert Einstein.

Top billing naturally goes to the colossal Münster lording it above the Marktplatz , which took almost 500 years to build from the first cathedral stone laid in 1377. From here, dive into the warren of lanes leading to the Fischerviertel , the old fishers’ and tanners’ quarter, where half-timbered houses huddle along the channels of the Blau River.

If you’re on an Einstein mission, you won’t want to miss the rocket-snail fountain depicting the wild-haired genius and the memorial marking the spot where he was born in 1879.

How to get to Ulm from Munich: Ulm is an hour-and-a-half’s drive west of Munich via the A8 motorway. There are twice hourly trains (1¼ hours).

5. Enjoy the natural beauty of Chiemsee, the region's largest lake

Travel time:  1 hour

Nicknaming Chiemsee the "Bavarian Sea" might be a tad far-fetched, but for beauty, you can’t fault this looking-glass lake, with its heaven-on-earth mountain views. On warm summer days, it’s tempting to just hang out at the lakeside lido beaches, rent a boat or paddle along the shores.

The big cultural deal on the lake is the riotously romantic and unashamedly opulent Schloss Herrenchiemsee , which Ludwig II ambitiously modeled on Versailles back in 1878. The lavishly frescoed, gilded and chandelier-lit Grosse Spiegelgalerie is 10m (33ft) longer than its Versailles counterpart at 98m (321ft) and elicits a chorus of "wows" from visitors.

How to get to Chiemsee from Munich : Prien am Chiemsee – the easiest access point – is an hour’s drive southeast of Munich via the A8. Trains depart frequently for Prien am Chiemsee from Munich’s Hauptbahnhof, making the journey in an hour. To reach the palace, take the ferry from Prien-Stock to Herreninsel (it’s a 20-minute walk through pretty gardens from there).

6. Pay tribute to those killed at Dachau

Travel time:  30 minutes

Needing little introduction, the KZ-Gedenkstätte Dachau was the Nazis’ first concentration camp, built by Heinrich Himmler to house political prisoners in March 1933. The sobering statistics show that it "processed" more than 200,000 inmates and killed at least 43,000. It is now a stark, hard-hitting memorial and poignant reminder of the grim atrocities of the Third Reich.

Allow at least a full morning or afternoon here to fully absorb the exhibits (note that young children may find them too disturbing). Harrowing displays include original photos of the camp, its guards and prisoners, including some depicting the horrific "scientific experiments" carried out by Nazi doctors.

The visitors center is a logical starting point, with its tour-booking desk where you can pick up an audio guide. Two-hour tours depart at 12pm, and tickets should be purchased at least 15 minutes in advance.

How to get to Dachau from Munich : Dachau is a half-hour (30km/19 mile) drive north of Munich via the A99. Follow the signs to KZ-Gedenkstätte Dachau. Alternatively, there are very frequent regional trains (11 minutes) or S-Bahn trains (21 minutes) from Munich Hauptbahnhof. Change for bus 726 (direction Saubachsiedlung) to reach the camp.

7. Head up to the mountains at Garmisch-Partenkirschen

Propelling you into the Bavarian Alps proper, this double-barrelled resort snuggles up close to the Austrian border. Garmisch and Partenkirschen are actually two towns (twinned for the 1936 Winter Olympics), the latter being the most appealing of the two, with its pastel-daubed old-world charm.

But, let’s face it, you’re here for the outdoors. Here you’ll find mountainscapes to make your heart sing, whether schussing down ski slopes or hiking high in Alpine meadows. First up should be a ride up to Zugspitze , the so-called "rooftop of Germany" at 2964m (9724ft) above sea level.

At the top, you’ll find snow, a Glacier Adventure Trail and arresting views dipping into four countries (Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Germany). For more drama, ramble through the 700m-long (2296ft)  Partnachklamm gorge, arguably at its most spectacular during the deep freeze of winter.

You’ve come this far, so why not make a couple of days of it? This allows time for visits to Ludwig II’s sumptuous Schloss Linderhof palace and Jagdschloss Schachen hunting lodge, with its Moorish Room straight out of an Arabian Nights fantasy.

How to get to Garmisch-Partenkirschen from Munich: Garmisch-Partenkirschen is a scenic hour’s drive south of Munich on the A95. Or hop on one of the hourly trains from the Hauptbahnhof. The journey takes around an hour and a half. From Garmisch, a cogwheel train chugs to Eibsee, where you can take the cable car to Zugspitze. Start early and avoid weekends to dodge the crowds.

This article was first published February 2021 and updated July 2023

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Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 15 Best Day Trips from Munich

15 Best Day Trips from Munich

Whether it’s hearty Bavarian food and beer you’re looking for, or jaw-dropping vistas from the top of The Alps, the various regions around Munich, Bavaria’s largest city, are a wealth of endless possibilities for any and all types of traveller.

From castles and palaces more magical and mysterious than the last, to beautiful natural escapes that are within easy reaching distance, finding the perfect Munich day trip couldn’t be easier.

Between the country’s highly reputable transport system and the ease of hiring a car in Europe, you’ll have no problem in arriving at the ideal excursion and enjoying all it has to offer within the space of a day.

To get you started, here are the best day trips from Munich :

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

Arguably the most iconic castle in Europe, if not the world, this pastel-coloured masterpiece with its complex of sprawling turrets, battlements, towers and spires is a true testament to the concept of a fairytale castle.

So much so, that it was actually used for the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s famous castles in the various Disneyland parks.

Less than two hours away from Munich, you’ll be transported to a realm of princes and princesses in a magnificent structure that is just as lavish on the inside as on the out.

You can expect a luxurious Throne Room and indulgent decorations inspired by romantic literature and opera.

This is without mentioning of course, the stunning views of the Alps that can be enjoyed from one of the many towers.

2. Linderhof Palace

The mind behind Neuschwanstein Castle, namely King Ludwig II – happened to also have another favourite spot.

Linderhof Palace, tucked away in the alpine woods near the mountains where Neuschwanstein sits, is an elegantly furnished palace built with the intention of being the king’s hunting lodge in the late 19th Century.

Like so many of the royal establishments of the era, Linderhof is supremely luxurious, containing rich wall hangings, immaculately carved fountains and beautiful gardens.

Make sure you don’t miss the Hall of Mirrors, the Tapestry Chambers and the famous Venus Grotto.

It’s worth noting that you can find some tours that combine Linderhof Palace with Neuschwanstein Castle in the space of a single day.

3. Herrenchiemsee

Built on an island that happens to be situated in the middle of Bavaria’s largest lake (a worthy tour in itself), the royal complex of Herrenchiemsee is only around 60km from Munich and truly is a sight to behold.

Partially finished but no less impressive, the palace grounds contain highlights such as the State Staircase, the Great Hall of Mirrors and King Ludwig’s Small Apartment.

The gardens are bedecked with fountains and sculptures of exceptional calibre and you can expect not one, but two museums to be found on the estate.

The King Ludwig II Museum and the Augustinian Monastery are both filled to the brim with artefacts from the King’s life and pieces of priceless furniture.

4. Salzburg

Make your way to the Austrian border and hop over to one of Europe’s most loved countries where you’ll find the impossibly picturesque city of Salzburg, surrounded by alpine snow peaks and complete with Baroque-style castles and romantic neighbourhoods.

Most famously known for being the birthplace of the immortalised composer Mozart, Salzburg is a hotbed of attractions concerning the late musician.

With it’s pretty winding roads, beautiful Old Town and scenic natural backdrop, it’s easy to see why the city was the setting of Mozart’s The Sound of Music.

Make sure you set time aside to visit Salzburg’s cathedral and the wonderful St Peter’s Abbey.

5. Nuremberg

One of the oldest cities in Bavaria, the ancient settlement of Nuremberg has been the site of many pivotal artistic and cultural events since the 14th and 15th Centuries and still holds a lot of the evidence there today.

So much importance has been attributed to the arts here that almost all of the beautiful Gothic buildings and various churches have been painstakingly restored after bombing from World War II. Discover a sense of deep history walking along the preserve walls of the city and explore the castle in the city center that offers excellent views from its vantage point on top of a hill.

6. Ingolstadt

Perfect for wandering around on foot due to it’s pedestrian-friendly layout, with wide walkways and boulevards, the old town of Ingolstadt is a veritable maze of historic buildings each more beautiful than the last.

Encircled by the preserved ruins of medieval battlements and fortifications, you’ll find highlights such as the Rathausplatz, the monumental Herzogsschloss and the Kreuztor.

Amongst the many wonders you’ll find scattered around the town, be sure to make time for the Minister of Our Lady Church, that contains the jaw-droppingly beautiful and largest stained glass window in Bavaria that was installed in 1527.

7. The Schleissheim Palace Complex

Containing not one, not two, but three magnificent palaces, the 18th Century-built Schleissheim Palace and Park is a convenient 20km away from the center of Munich, meaning its gorgeous attractions are within easy reaching distance either by public transport or by car.

The Neues Schloss is the grandest of the palaces with pavilions linking the huge sections of building and interior that is guaranteed to dazzle visitors with its subtle combinations of different styles including Baroque, Italian and Rococo.

Standout highlights include the Entrance Hall and the Grand Staircase Hall.

The other highlight every bit as impressive as the palaces is the Schleissheim Park which is a Baroque garden that has survived since 1720.

One of the most striking townscapes in Europe belongs to the skyline of Passau, a combination of Italian-style buildings and houses reminiscent of Venice overlooking the banks of the beautiful River Danube.

Located on the Austrian border, the town is perfect for those looking for a riverside getaway.

Passau’s old town is perfectly laid out to give the impression of always being close to the water’s edge, with cobbled lanes leading down from the hill to the river at regular intervals.

Be sure to visit the Cathedral of St Stephen and the pedestrianized shopping street Ludwigstrasse, where you’ll find all manner of Austrian and Bavarian goods and treats.

9. Rothenburg

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of Europe’s most impeccably well-preserved towns and without a doubt one of the most picturesque towns in the world.

Street after street are lined with pastel-coloured, fairytale timbered buildings and store fronts and no shortage of fine churches.

A popular stop on the famous route through various towns known as the Romantic Road, Rothenburg attracts visitors from all over the world to amble through its postcard perfect streets.

10. Berchtesgaden and Eagle’s Nest

Perched on a vantage point-like spot that is surrounded by the striking beauty of the Berchtesgaden National Park, the town of the same name is frequently visited by travellers in search of the perfect 360 degree view of the Alps.

The town boasts an impressively old palace dating back to the 1100’s and the Wittelsbach dynasty.

Also of great popularity to tourists is the infamous Eagle’s Nest, a hideaway built into the mountain for Hitler, standing at an astonishing 1834 meters.

A perfect mix of Alpine scenery and fascinating history, the town of Berchtesgaden is best visited on a tour with a professional guide and ease of transport from Munich.

11. Mount Eckbauer

A nationwide favourite place for snowsports, Mount Eckbauer is the home of the astronomically large Olympic ski jump that is still used today.

Best viewed from the thrilling gondolas of the Eckbauerbahn, its been in use since the Winter Olympics of 1936. With unbeatable views of the snowy Alps, you can even bring a toboggan with you to descend one of the public slopes instead of taking the return gondola.

Also wonderfully appropriate for the location is the hearty Berggasthof where you can fill up on beer and traditional, deliciously authentic Bavarian food.

12. Chiemsee

Easily reachable in under two hours from Munich on public transport, you’ll find Chiemsee, the largest lake in Bavaria.

Its serene waters, backdropped by mountains make for excellent photo opportunities on both sunny and overcast days.

One of the main attractions of the lake is the Prienavera centre, a custom complex built specifically for exercise and relaxation and boasting both indoor and outdoor pools with panoramic views of the lake and unique lakeside saunas.

If all the relaxation works up an appetite, then enjoy a meal at one of the many waterside restaurants before returning to the city.

13. Walchensee

For more alpine lake magic, head about an hour away from Munich to the depths of Walchensee Lake, one of the deepest in Germany.

With a host of activities available, it’s impossible not to stay entertained when visiting, whether you surf, sail dive or fish in Walchensee’s waters.

To get a real perspective of the depth of the lake, you can venture up into the mountains the surround it and peer down into the clear water.

Once you’re up in the mountains you can also enjoy a number of hiking trails, including the beautiful pine tree-lined Mittenwald.

14. Partnach Gorge

Declared as a natural monument owing to its stunning aesthetic beauty, the Partnach Gorge offers an immersive adventure into the middle of the gorge along winding walkways that take you down cliff side paths and through waterfalls.

Make sure you wear clothes that you’re prepared to get a little wet!

15. Regensburg

Less than 2 hours away from Munich is a world famous, UNESCO listed World Heritage Site that sits on the banks of the River Danube.

A truly remarkable city with roots dating back to 179 AD, the riverside city flourished from the regular trade routes established after the Stone Age and as a result is home to some fascinating history and beautiful architecture.

15 Best Day Trips from Munich:

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Linderhof Palace
• Herrenchiemsee
• The Schleissheim Palace Complex
• Berchtesgaden and Eagle's Nest
• Mount Eckbauer
• Partnach Gorge

• Route planner

Hiking around Munich

Want to go hiking around Munich to explore more of this corner of Upper Bavaria? In this guide, we’ve reviewed our full collection of hikes and walking routes around Munich to bring you the best hiking routes in the region. To see which of our walks around Munich is the right one for you, browse real tips and photos uploaded by other hikers—and see what they had to say about each walk.

The best walks and hikes around Munich

Fischtreppe – georgenstein loop from grünwald, schlosspark nymphenburg – amalienburg loop from nymphenburg.

Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app

Anlegestelle für die flößer – großhesseloher brücke loop from großhesselohe isartalbahnhof, isarweg – flauchersteg loop from brudermühlstraße, eisbach und schwabinger bach – chinesischer turm loop from odeonsplatz, park aubinger lohe – teichblick loop from lochhausen, japan-garten (westpark) – thai-sala (westpark) loop from partnachplatz, an der schönen isar – ickinger wehr loop from schäftlarn, flauchersteg – an der isar loop from implerstraße, schöner waldsteig – blick auf den georgenstein loop from buchenhain, explore these walks and hikes on the map.

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

Popular around Munich

Hiking Collection by komoot

Find the perfect Tour

Explore the most popular tours around munich, discover the most popular attractions around munich.

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out more Hikes throughout Munich below and find the perfect Tour in your destination.

• Unterföhring
• Garching bei München
• Perlacher Forest
• Forstenrieder Park
• Kirchheim bei München
• Straßlach-Dingharting
• Perlacher Forst
• Oberschleißheim
• Hofoldinger Forest
• Grünwalder Forst
• Oberhaching
• Unterhaching
• Forestenrieder Park
• Grünwalder Forest
• Ismaninger Speichersee Und Fischteiche
• Unterschleißheim
• Höhenkirchen-Siegertsbrunn
• Regattastrecke Oberschleißheim
• Speichersee
• Pullach im Isartal
• Aubinger Lohe
• Allacher Forest
• Südliche Fröttmaninger Heide
• Panzerwiese Und Hartelholz

Explore more of Upper Bavaria : Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

• Garmisch-Partenkirchen
• Tölzer Land
• Berchtesgadener Land
• Landsberg am Lech
• Pfaffenwinkel
• Fürstenfeldbruck
• Pfaffenhofen an der Ilm
• Neuburg-Schrobenhausen
• Mühldorf am Inn

Munich to Tegernsee Hiking the German Alps

I may earn income from affiliate links or partnerships in this post. I spend time to curate tours or products that align with my values. Thanks for supporting my work, at no additional cost to you.

Last updated on May 13th, 2019 at 05:49 pm

A clearing opens before you as you leave the padded forest behind. The sound of goats bleating fades into the distance. You smile, spotting a hut with the white and blue of Bavaria adorning the umbrellas. You have just enough time to recharge your batteries with a refreshing locally brewed Tegernsee beer before beginning the grueling stair climb. Your motivation is the view from the top. The stairway ends at a small chapel with breathtaking panorama views; nestled among the red-roofed houses of Bavaria lays the sparkling lake of Tegernsee. This is hiking in the German Alps and this is a fun day trip from Munich to Tegernsee.

Munich to Tegernsee by Train Hiking the German Alps

Another exciting installment in our Day Trips from Munich series is here! This time we’re heading to the foothills of the German Alps for hiking in the gorgeous Tegernsee. This day trip from Munich to Tegernsee can be done year round, but I’m debuting this post during my favorite season to visit, autumn. Hiking in the Bavarian Alps is a great autumn activity in Germany and truly something special with the trees shining bright shades of orange and yellow and the cool temperatures. I’ll cover a few of my favorite routes, but once you’re in town you’ll be able to plan your own adventure if you choose. The town is incredibly hiker friendly and is well marked from the second you leave the train station. Make sure to stick around to the end because I’ll go over some of the highlights of making this day trip from Munich in the winter too!

Trip Stats Munich to Tegernsee

Length of Time: 6-8 hour day. About 2 hours of transit and about 4-6 hours of hiking, plus lunch! Skill Level: 20-70 HP, which is a beginner and intermediate trails. Some of these trails are very easy and paved/smooth rock the whole time, some of them are uneven and rocky. Elevation gain ranges from 400-1000 depending on the hike you take. Options and Cost: The cost of your BOB ticket, if you have more than 2 people in your group, buy the group ticket. It’s 31 Euros and saves your a ton! Bring some extra spending money for beer and lunch. Seasons: All seasons. Hiking in the spring, summer and autumn and Tobogganing and ice skating in the winter! Packing List:

• Small backpack.
• Water bottle or camelback.
• Good walking or trail shoes.
• Light jacket in the fall. (check the weather for rain)
• Extra food or snacks, I usually go to Dean and David at the train station and back a sandwich.

Starting Your Day trip from Munich

The day trip from Munich to Tegernsee is a great option for the outdoor lover who needs a break from the city. The train leaves from the Munich Hbf about every 30 min from 5 after. You can find a detailed Timetable here. Head to the train station about 20-30 min before your train leaves, so you can grab some breakfast, coffee, buy your ticket and have plenty of time to find your train. There are plenty of ticketing stations near the platforms with English translation. Buy your BOB or Meridan (only on weekends) group tickets from the station, they also have a kiosk with English speaking attendants to help if you’re scared to navigate the tickets or station on your own. Head toward platforms 23-27, in the back corner. Look for the train that has Tegernsee lit on the front and all aboard! Make sure to load into the front cars that say Tegernsee on them. ***This train splits into three parts and if you’re not on the right compartment you’ll be having a different type of day trip! Tegernsee is your last stop, so sit back and enjoy the views!

Finding Your Tegernsee Hiking Trail

As soon as you leave the train station there’s restrooms and a shop, if you need anything. When you’re ready to start your day, walk along the station toward town and you’ll see a huge billboard with hiking trails and directions on it. You can wing it and plan your day based on this map, or use my guide for help. Pick your trail and look around for the yellow signs on poles. These will be your handy helpers for sticking to the trail and knowing how long and how far you have to go. Here’s the rundown of a few options!

Tegernsee Hiking – Riederstein

• Circuit trail.

Probably the easiest hike with the best views. The best bang for your buck, if you will. This trail starts along the paved road before crossing a river continuing to a steady uphill climb. This first part is steep, but with benches and amazing views, it’s all worth it. Keep following the trail as it wraps around the side of the mountain through farmland with adorable baby sheep! After about an hour or more you’ll and some unpaved incline you’ll hit a clearing with that long-awaited beer garden! Grab some brews and enjoy lunch with a view!

After lunch, the real work starts! It’s only 20 minutes, but it’s ALL stairs through the thick lush woods. As with any hike in Bavaria you’re given a friendly reminder of the 15 stations of the cross. I think it’s their way of dealing with the torture of climbing stairs.Once you reach the top, or station 15, you’re rewarded with amazing views of the surrounding Tegernsee area! There’s also a super cute chapel on top. Sign their visitor book for a lasting memory.

The way back down connects with the beer garden then loops around the mountain and connects with the town for a scenic walk around the lake this option is mostly all paved. My tip is to grab another beer at the hut for good measure. Once you are in the town the trail makers will direct you back to the Hbf. The train departs from Tegernsee back to Munich every 20 minutes, but make sure you’re back to the station before 6 or you might not make the day trip back to Munich. Most trains will go direct to Munich, but check the signage on your carriage before sitting down.

Pfliegeleck

An alternative to the hike above is my favorite variation. It peaks at Pfliegeleck and has a lot more unpaved wooded trail. You start the trail like normal, as soon as you peak the first steep paved part and viewpoint you’ll see a yellow trail marker sign pointing right into the woods. This trail is a bit more advanced, but it’s more similar to the hiking I am used to. Once you peak, you’ll see a giant cross, as you do in Bavaria. From here the trail continues down a paved trail, which will turn back into unpaved elevation before meeting up with the beer garden. Continue up to the chapel for your panorama views.

Take a different way down for some extra variety. Once you reach the beer garden go straight down the little valley toward the town. Be careful though as you’re walking right through a herd of Alpine cattle and this trail has loose gravel! The cattle are friendly, but you’ll want to stay out of their way and give them space.

Continue through the town to the train station.

Tegernsee to Schliersee

• 13km. 520m.

This route is for those who aren’t a fan of the circuit route and is a good intermediate level hike. The trail takes you over the spine of the small mountain area from one town the next. The start of this trail is the opposite of the other two. So, when you exit the train in Tegernsee you’ll need to turn to the left instead of the right and follow trail markings for this. The town you end up in is called Hausham. This hike has scenic views of both Tegernsee and Schliersee, so you can check out two lakes spotted with the adorable red houses of Bavaria. You can use your BOB ticket all day for any transportation, so you can easily catch the BOB or Meridan back to Munich from Hausham station.

Day trip from Munich to Tegernsee, in the Winter

You’ll want to add a lot of winter gear onto your packing list including, hats, boots, gloves, jackets and snow pants if you can get your hands on some.

This is something I have yet to personally experience, even though I’ve had several summers and autumn adventures in Tegernsee. This year I am waiting anxiously for the snowfall so I can update and share my adventures with you. The best thing about most day trips from Munich is they can be enjoyed year round. The Bavarians don’t let a little snow stop them from having fun. As soon as you exit the snowy train station follow the trail for our first hiking trip Riederstein. Yes, this involves a bit of hiking in the snow, but don’t worry the trails are well groomed and manageable! Once you’re at the top 4 Euros will get you a ride down in the toboggan or snow tube! Enjoy fast-paced snow filled ride to the bottom. Make sure to grab their famous fondue or hot chocolate to warm up before catching the train home!

Want More Day Trips?

Don’t miss  and Day Trip from Munich to Andechs Monastery

If Munich isn’t your final destination check out 7 Reasons to Visit Hamburg You won’t be sorry you did!

Check out More Autumn Beauty Around the World!

I hope you enjoy our day trip from Munich to Tegernsee. Before you go make sure to check out Mexatia’s post on how to spend Autumn in Zagreb! You’ll also find tons more places to see the autumn beauty around the world thanks to our Travel Blogger Link Party! Are you a blogger? Join the Party!

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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39 comments.

appreciate the level of detail you give in your post, makes it all that easier for people to plan! pictures look beautiful, the sun filtering through the trees is so amazing! thanks for sharing :)

This area sounds like a dream for lovers of the outdoors! The forest at Pfliegeleck looks magical and surreal and the views from RIederstein are magical. I’d love to do some hiking there and fondue sounds like a perfect reward!

Thanks for the great comment, Erika! It was pretty magical. If you are ever in Munich let me know and we can do some hiking!

This looks like an amazing hike! I need to get back into shape so I can hike again.

Wow, such beautiful scenery. Sounds like a pretty strenuous day, but well worth it.

Wow! That’s a long hike! I’m always amazed when I read posts about hikes that take all day. I’ve only completed short easy hikes. The photos look amazing too!

That’s what I love about hiking in Germany, there’s always a beer garden halfway up so you can rest and grab a beer haha. There’s one hike in here that’s about 2.5 hours, so that’s a good starting point!

I should definitely go to Southern Germany more often. While I like Munich, I usually just go there to visit friends and don’t take the time to visit the Alps – a mistake, I can see that when I look at your pictures. Those hikes look amazing. Love your whole blog, by the way!

I actually tend to get bored in the city living here, so I am always out and about the surrounding area. Next time you come you’ll have to visit outside the city. Thank you so much, that means a lot!

Wow what a detailed post, thank you! The photos are so beautiful and I think you’re right – hiking in the fall is something so special! What gorgeous colours!

I haven’t been to Germany, but now I want to go! It looks so idyllic. Thanks for sharing this detailed information!

Germany is a place I’ve always been curious to visit. Maybe someday! Your info is very specific, detailed and informative. Very helpful for someone planning a 1st trip. Happy Travels!

wow what a hike and beautiful views, I love your details in your post and your good to be hiking from 6am, I’m not a morning person

Tegernsee sounds so awesome. I think 4-6 hours of moderate level hiking is exactly what the doc ordered for me. I am amazed how you can always go out of a big city few hours here/there and read a completely untouched (comparatively) paradise.

I love how in depth this guide is!! I’ve been wanting to do a hike for so long now, so I may need to come to Germany to lace up my hiking boots again! (Although I can’t imagine doing 20 minutes of stairs right after lunch! Hello leg muscles!)

I absolutely love your writing style. I feel like I am there. You are a great storyteller! I haven’t been to Munich yet but after reading this post I absolutely want to add it to my list. Beautiful photos! I never would have known that just outside of Munich would be a great place for hiking. Can’t wait to read your other posts :)

Thank you so much, Brit!! I hope you make it to Munich and the surrounding areas very soon!

I’ll admit I’m not much of a hike…actually been to intimidated to do a hike on my own. But these hikes look gorgeous. And to go on a hike to a beer garden with those views is pretty stunning.

Well if you’re ever in the area and need a hiking buddy, let me know. It can be intimidating, but on well marked trails, it’s not so bad. Just start small and easy and you’ll learn to love it.

Perfect scenery! perfectfor lovers of the outdoors! The forest at Pfliegeleck looks amazing. I’d love to do some hiking there someday! There are also tons of hiking places here in PH! :)

Tegernsee look wonderful and good to know it can be done in a day from Munich. You photos are stunning, I particularly like the stairs and the leaf covered path. I think you really warned that beer after your hike!

Love the trails! the color of the trees is so mesmerizing. I plan to do my first summer overseas trekking next year, hope to get beautiful scenery like yours. :)

Beer and walking. It’s a great mix. Thank you for putting so much details in your posts. It is a great help when it comes to planning a walk! I have done a couple of walks near Munich with a friend (I can’t remember the names of the places though :-( ) and it was great. Plenty of rest stops to grab a beer too :-)

Nice and detailed post! We recently started hiking so I love beginners friendly trails. It’s even better if they are photo friendly like Tegernsee, right? Leaves covered paths are my favorite thing about autumn.

Day trips are the best! What’s a 4 hour drive for that scenery!

Beautiful pictures and so much hiking inspiration. Love the woods in the forest and your picture of those stairs almost got me packing the bags and heading to Munich… :)

Some great photos, I love the combination of hiking and beer! A perfect trip for Autumn!

Pretty detailed and useful post, Susanna. You seized a beautiful autumn day!

Thank you so much! It was a beautiful day!

As someone who’ve lived the majority of my life within walking distance of the start of the Riederstein hike I gotta say you picked nice hikes. And I’m glad there are some you didn’t pick because I love their solitary atmosphere. I do really wanna go on the Riederstein again now though, haven’t gone up there in years, used to be up there at least once a week as a kid.

You have such a lovely home Barbara! I just moved to Munich and have been enjoying all the hiking around the area. I’ve been branching out a bit more and starting to do some harder hikes, but they’re a bit hard to explain in a blog post, or do in a day trip, plus I would like to keep them more secret for locals like us to enjoy :) Thanks for reading!

Thanks for the trail info.

It’s worth noting that prices at the train station shop in Tegernsee are extortionate (€3.50 for a 1.5l bottle of water), so bring what you need from Munich.

Water in Munich is also pretty expensive. It is not uncommon to spend over 5 euro for a bottle in some areas, and at restaurants, it can get up to 8 Euro. All the tap water in Munich and Bavaria is drinkable and I always suggest filling up a personal bottle from the tap and using that!

hello, Like your detailed on this place. We want to know if hike to riederstein in winter is possible in month of jan, You mentioned abouts snowtub , where i can book ticket for that, I cant find that over internet

Hi! The hiking at Riederstein, might not be ideal in January, however, as I mentioned the snow tubing will be in full swing. There are a few areas to do this around Tegernsee. The first is Oedberg and there is a pulley that brings you up in an innertube and you can tube down. You can find more information in English here https://www.bavaria.by/experiences/winter-holidays/excursions/adventure/snow-tubing-bavaria/ (It’s the second listing for Gemund-Osten) Or you can head over to the Wallbergbahn for the longest toboggan hill in Germany, which is near Tegernsee. You take the Wallbergbahn up and can rent the toboggans at the top https://www.wallbergbahn.de/winter/die-rodelbahn/ . You don’t need tickets for any of these, you can just purchase the ride on the spot, however during snowy weekends it might be quite busy.

My husband and I will be going to Munich Nov 5 to 14th, Would love to do some sledding/hiking up the hill etc, Is that too early for snow sport? if we went to Riederstein where is the train station? Thanks Love you page…

It really depends on the season and weather. Typically we don’t have too much snow around that time, skiing and such usually starts toward the end of November, early December. Wither way you should still be able to enjoy the region. There might be a light dusting of snow at the top of Riederstein, but you should still be able to do some cold weather hiking at least. The train station is the Tegernsee station.

Are there huts for lunch or beers between Tegernsee and Schliersee? If so, do you know their names? Thanks!

There are loads. I’ve been to Kreuzbergalm and Berggaststätte Riederstein. Have a great time.

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The nicest hiking routes around Munich – Without a car

Good weather in Munich means that you can see the mountains as if they were right at the end of the street. Though the mountains aren’t really that close, you can reach them very quickly and easily to go for amazing hiking trips around Munich, completely without a car even. In this article, we want to show you some of our favorite hiking routes around Munich.

Table of Contents

What would Munich without Mountains and mountains without hiking be?

Munich is closely connected to the mountains. One couldn’t imagine the city without them. Always in the background, no panorama picture of Munich does without the mountains , Munich’s water comes from the mountains, and often the weather comes from the mountains. And if the weather allows it Munich comes to the mountains, meaning the people of Munich. In these instances, the people of the surrounding areas like to complain about the reckless driving of the city’s drivers.

Of course, that doesn’t mean everybody and can be avoided easily, because many people use public transport to get to the mountains completely without a car. The train companies offer several tickets and connections with which you can easily reach the nicest hiking routes around Munich. The best would probably be to use the Bayern Ticket, but for some destinations, special offers for the trains will be better suited to reach the mountains. The DAV (German Alpine Society) provides a summary of the different ticket options on their website that will bring you directly into the mountains from Munich and to the hiking routes.

Family hiking in Munich’s surroundings – These routes you can reach with the suburban train

For families and those who like to sleep in or aren’t particularly fond of the mountains the option of taking the suburban train to hiking routes around Munich is perfectly suited. These hikes will lead you along Isar, to picturesque places like St. Ottilien or lake Starnberg . You can practically begin right there where the best biking tours around Munich end.

There are clearly many more beautiful hiking routes around Munich that you can easily reach with the suburban train. We only want to list the two that we think of as the nicest ones.

Following Isar: Ebenhausen until Wolfratshausen

This route is perfectly suited for families with kids. The difference in altitudes from the beginning to the end is just about 100 meters and that is downhill all the way. In total, this hike could take from two and a half up to three hours . The way is incredibly beautiful along the riverbanks of Loisach. At the of the hike, you can just take the suburban train back to Munich.

Once around Geltendorf

Close to Geltendorf is the monastery of St. Ottilien. On the way through the flat landscape, you will walk just about 50 meters in altitude and you can complete the tour in around two to two and a half hours , and then just take the suburban train back to the city. In St. Ottilien there is a healing spring and the route is easy and walkable all year round and beautiful.

Hiking around Munich – It quickly gets mountainous

To start hiking you should just take the regional trains from Munich. These trains will bring you to Bad Tölz, Lenggries, Bayrischzell, Kufstein, or Tegernsee, to just name one direction. In these places alone there’s an almost endless supply of hiking routes, which is why we must make some decisions and only introduce you to a few selected classics.

 The favorite hike around Munich: Partnachklamm

On holidays and Sundays, we recommend some caution. Partnachklamm is probably the most popular destination for hiking enthusiasts from Munich. Therefore, on specific days it can get extremely crowded there. That might either be since you can directly reach the entry point of the canyon by train, or that the hike along the river is perfectly suited for families . The hike through Partnachklamm is an incredible natural spectacle and we highly recommend it to everybody.

Hiking in the countryside of Tölz

The surroundings of the town of Tölz close to Munich are perfectly suited for short and long hiking trips. There are routes on which you can climb the peaks of Munich’s house mountains and others where you hike through flat land. In both cases the panorama is breathtaking.

Most of the time, we would recommend you not to take the train directly to Tölz but to drive a little further. Some nice routes start in Benediktbeuern or Lenggries . Sometimes you have to take a bus before you reach the starting point of the hike. But that’s not complicated at all and doesn’t take a long time either.

One rather unknown route starts directly in Bad Tölz. The mountain Rechelkopf is the closest mountain to Munich. It is just 46 kilometers away from Marienplatz as the crow flies. To get there you get out at the train station of Gaißach. The mountain is not particularly spectacular, but perfectly suited for a little family trip .

Brauneck and Geierstein

Hiking up Brauneck is amazing and your efforts will be rewarded by a stunning view over the Isar valley. Geierstein is in the same area where a just as amazing view awaits you. This peak is a little less well known , and therefore less packed. Along Tegernsee and various places around there are many other scenic hikes that are easy to reach by train and/or short bus rides.

Jochberg and Herzogstand

From Kochel you can easily reach Jochberg by bus. Same as Herzogstand, which is right next to Jochberg, is very accessible by bus. Both are very well liked “front yard” mountains of Munich in the Bavarian alps and on both you can find numerous hiking routes with different levels of difficulty.

Hiking in Chiemgau – Easy to reach from Munich

Lake Chiemsee itself is worth a day trip. Everybody should see the castle Herrenchiemsee, built by the same king that built Neuschwanstein. But the hiking trails on the mountains around the lake are worth a visit. One is especially noteworthy, and is extremely recognizable for its unusual shape, but of course for its beautiful trails as well:

Like the Partnachklamm, the Kampenwand is one of the absolute classics among Munich’s day trip destinations. Therefore, it’s worth setting off early so you don’t have to go to a completely crowded mountain, or, if possible, plan the hike for during the week. Almost at the top, there is an Alm, where you can stop, and strengthen yourself for the following final part. Because this needs strengthening, here it is more about mountain hiking . You climb over scree and further up along steep rock cliffs to the summit, from which the view is definitely worth it.

Even “true-blooded” Chiemgauiens sometimes forget about this little treasure. A beautiful secret tip. You can get here from Munich by public transport, first taking the train to Ruhpolding and then changing onto the Bus and getting out at Seegatterl. The hike to the peak is long but not very hard . There are three inns or Alms on the way to the top and you can even reach the last inn with a mountain bike still.

Feldlahnalm

Feldlahnalm is the perfect destination for a family trip with kids. The hike there is easy and not exhausting at all. On the Alm itself there you will find a petting zoo and a playground. The path to the Alm leads you through a small canyon, Hammerer Graben, along a river. Therefore, it is exciting and entertaining for the kids, too. Of course, you can arrive by train as well, at least to the starting point. You will take the train to Prien am Chiemsee and from there get a bus that gets you to Brem. From here it’s just a couple of minutes of walking to get to the starting point of the hike.

Some little-known hikes in Munich’s mountains

We are slowly reaching the limits of our capacity to find suiting categories for the countless hiking mountains around Munich. Already, we had to leave out so many, by concentration only on those that you can reach via public transport. But even with those, public transport accessible hiking trips around Munich, there are so many still that we decided to specifically look at the lesser-known hiking routes in our last category.

Ringspitz close to Tegernsee

This hike is a bit more challenging and especially in wet conditions, you should be extremely careful. The slightly increased exhaustion will be worth it though since you won’t have to share the amazing view of the lake Tegernsee with masses of other hikers. The best way to get to Ringspitz is to take the train to Gmund am Tegernsee and then continue by bus to Ringsee.

Silberkopf with a small self-catering hut

Let’s stay at Tegernsee for a short while longer, shall we? Here you can find the little-visited Silberkopf which, basically as a small gimmick for the real outdoor freaks, has a self-catering hut on top. The DAV has more information on how the hut works and what you have to know if you, for example, want to spend a night there. The hike up Silberkopf is not particularly complicated and quite family-friendly. From the train station close to Tegernsee you get into the bus until Scharling Grundnerweg Kreuth and from there continue a little until the beginning of the hike.

Latschenkopf

One last nice, exciting and little-known hike around Munich leads up Latschenkopf close to Lenggries. This hike is a little bit more complicated already and if you want to master it you should definitely bring some mountain hiking experience with you. In some places there are no signs showing you the way, therefore you should get informed about the route beforehand . You can reach the hike by taking the train from Munich to Lenggries and then taking the bus to Jachenau.

Summer in the City of Munich

In their song “Sommer in the City” the Spider Murphy Gang described so many things that are perfectly suited for the summer in Munich. In the coming weeks, we will also look exactly at these topics and take a peek at different summer activities in Munich. Who already wants to cool down right now can look at the 10 best open air pools in Munich or the best Spots close to the Isar .

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The 25 best day trips from Munich, Germany

Winter or summer: a massive list of the most popular day trips from munich as ranked by a local..

Munich is an amazing city. I should know, I live here. Architecture, art, tradition, food, beer – there is virtually nothing my hometown cannot offer (check my list of the 50 best things to do in Munich ). But that is not the only reason Bavaria’s capital is often ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. There is also a sheer endless mass of tourist attractions in the close vicinity . Here is my list of the 20 best day trips from Munich.

 The easiest way to reach most of the places on this list is by car or guided tour. You’ll find the average time to reach them in parenthesis. As Bavaria has a very good public transport system , there is (almost) no location you cannot reach via train or bus in southern Germany. In some cases, it will take longer, though. I usually take the train.

Note: I earn a small commission for purchases made through links in this article

1. Day trip to Neuschwanstein castle (1h 50min)

The probably most popular reason to leave Munich is Schloss Neuschwanstein , near Füssen. The picture-perfect castle inspired Walt Disney for the Sleeping beauty castle  and countless generations of photographers. The most stunning part: It’s even more spectacular from within than from without. Construction started in 1869 as a private mansion for King Ludwig II but it never got finished due to his untimely death and the astronomical costs.

Plan some extra time to visit the adjacent castle Hohenschwangau. It’s a bit older, but nevertheless quite charming. As Neuschwanstein is pure fantasy, Hohenschwangau will also give you the unique opportunity to see a real castle of the Bavarian Kings.

How to get there: It’s a bit more complicated to get there by public transport, so I recommend a tour.

Recommended tour: This is the tour I booked on my last trip to Neuschwanstein

Related blog post: How to get from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle

Note: If you plan a visit definitely pre-book your tickets on the official website, especially during the summer months.

2. Regensburg (1h 30min)

Regensburg is another well preserved medieval town worth a visit listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The capital of Upper Palatinate (“Oberpfaltz”) was founded in 179 AD under the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and started to flourish after the Stone Bridge across the Danube opened up the international trade routes between Europe and Venice.

Truly a remarkable city with fascinating architecture and lots of history! So, put a Regensburg day trip from Munich on your bucket list, eh?

Related blog post: You can read my detailed Regensburg travel guide here .

Recommended tour: Here is a lovely direct guided tour from Munich .

How to get there: There are direct trains from the central station every hour. It only takes 90 minutes.

3. Nuremberg (1h)

Nuremberg is a medieval town of epic proportions and quite a spectacular old town. It has also quite a sinister Nazi-past, so it makes for the perfect day trip from Munich. If you are visiting Germany in winter, then the famous Christmas market in Nuremberg will be a more than welcome diversion.

I personally love the Germanic National Museum (one of the best museums in Germany), and the Toy Museum is also quite special. Above all, walking through the historic old town will be a treat. The Hangman’s Bridge is half-timbered medieval perfection if you ask me! Although most of it was destroyed during World War II, you should reserve some time to walk along the historic city wall and of course, the medieval Kaiserburg (emperor’s castle) abutting the old town.

Related blog post: Here is my travel guide to Nuremberg

How to get there: Take the train from the central station. If you take the expensive high-speed train, it only takes 60 minutes. The direct regional train is about 2 hours.

4. Würzburg (2h)

Another UNESCO World Heritage site you shouldn’t miss can be found in Würzburg. The drive might be quite long, but the Würzburg Residenz is worth it. The vast castle complex is especially famous for its stunning Baroque style interiors, and the world’s largest fresco created by none other than Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.

Related blog post: Read my Würzburg guide here

How to get there: The highspeed train takes 2 hours from Munich central station to Würzburg. The fastest regional connection is 3 hours 15 minutes, so not sure if that is feasible.

Note: If you just want to see the castle, I’d recommend visiting on route to another city in Germany like Frankfurt, Cologne or Berlin.

5. Bamberg (1h 40 min)

Looking for more UNESCO World Heritage sites? Then Bamberg might just be the perfect place for you. The medieval old town of the city is world-famous and beyond pretty. It’s not that close to Munich, but the highspeed train (ICE) will get you there in no time to make it feasible. I’ve done it plenty of times.

Related blog post: Here’s my Bamberg travel guide .

Recommended tour: Definitely consider booking a private brewery and walking tour ! You’ll thank me later.

How to get there: Again, the easiest way to get to Bamberg from Munich is by train. There is a direct train every hour (and a couple of slower trains in between).

6. Salzburg (1h 30min)

Not all that far away from the Königsee, hides another wonderful day trip option from Munich: Salzburg. Often coined the town where Mozart was born, has much more to offer than just music. The fourth-largest city in Austria is renowned for its impressive Baroque architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Related blog posts: Click here for my detailed Salzburg travel guide )

Recommended tours: You can book a day trip from Munich here . Definitely also consider doing the authentic Sound of Music tour !

How to get there: A RailJet Express leaves every hour from Munich central station and only takes 90 minutes! You’ll have to walk a bit from Salzburg central station to the old town (quite scenic) or take the regional bus.

7. Altötting (1h 20min)

The small town of Altötting is a true insider tip. It is here, almost all Bavarian Kings had had their hearts buried, it is here Germany’s oldest and most important shrine to Mary can be found. And it is here all past three Popes came to pray in front of the black Madonna . It is a quiet place, a place for contemplation, but nevertheless stunning. Doubly so, as almost no international tourists come here.

Related blog post: Read my full Altötting guide here

How to get there: There are no direct trains from Munich central station. You will first have to catch one to Mühldorf and then change to the Regional Train to Altötting. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes one way.

8. Zugspitze (2h 25min)

Looking for an adventure? They how about climbing Germany’s highest mountain ? But fear not, for those short on time or too lazy to hike, three cables cars run all the way up those 2.962 meters (9.718 ft). The panorama of the Bavarian Alps from the top is truly spectacular.

There is a big skiing resort at the Zugspitze, so it is also a perfect winter getaway. If you are looking for further things to do between December and March, check out my guide to the best things to do in Munich in winter .

Recommended tour: Here is a comfortable direct tour from Munich .

How to get there: It is a bit more complicated to get to the Zugspitze. First, you have to catch a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, they leave every hour. Then you have to take the Regional bus to the Eibsee Cable Car and from there you can buy your tickets to go all the way to the top.

9. Blaubeuren (1h 40min)

In 2017 the UNESCO inscribed Blaubeuren and the nearby prehistoric cave dwellings as a World Heritage site . Even before, the medieval town was famous for the Blautopf, a natural spring of the deepest blue. Such a scenic setting.

There really is no way around visiting this amazing town near Ulm. Why? Well, in the URMU museum in Blaubeuren you get the chance to see the oldest human figurine ever found ( The Venus of Hohle Fels ; 42.500 years old) and the oldest human music instrument (The Geierknochenflöte ; same age).

Related blog post: Read how to visit Blaubeuren on a day trip from Munich here .

How to get there from Munich: It takes about 90 minutes to get to Blaubeuren by train, but you will have to catch a connecting train in Ulm. If you start your day early, you could even do a tour of Ulm for 2 hours (see below).

10. Innsbruck (1h 45 min)

Innsbruck is another lovely Austrian town, you really should visit. Fear not, as Austria is in the EU, crossing the border is utterly hassle-free. Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol and famous for its mountains, its old town , ski-resorts, and excellent cuisine.

It also happens to be the birthplace of the Swarovski crystals and there is a Swarovski Theme park quite close to the city worth visiting. Actually, I’d say Innsbruck is one of the best weekend trips from Munich, as there is so much to be explored in Tyrol that one day is probably not enough.

Related blog post: Read my detailed Innsbruch guide here

How to get to Innsbruck : There is a direct train from the central station every two hours. So, try to catch this one, as the alternatives take considerably longer.

11. Breitachklamm (2h 10min)

In the most southern part of Germany hides another Gem you will find in very few tourist guides. For some reason, the region called Allgäu is not all that popular among tourists. Berchtesgaden is closer, but traffic jams are frequent and its often a bit crowded. The Breitachklamm is the deepest rocky gorge in Central Europe and you really have to see. It’s a wonderful day trip from Munich in winter or summer.

How to get there: This one is a bit tricky. I actually recommend you to go there by car as taking public transport is difficult and slow. First, you have to catch a train to Fischen. And then you need to take bus 44 which will take you directly to the gorge (3 hours+ one way); With the car, you can make it in less than 2 hours.

12. Burghausen (2h)

Burghausen is home to the longest castle complex in the world . The medieval fair tale castle stretches for more than one kilometer along a high mountain ridge. Burghausen Castle was founded in 1025 AD and has quite a history to tell. You won’t need a full day to explore the complex, though. As both Salzburg and Altöttingen are quite close, you could possibly combine them.

How to get there: Take the train to Mühldorf from the central station and then catch the connecting train to Burghausen.

13. Königsee (2 hours)

Few spots in Bavaria, if any, are more beautiful than the Köngisee (Lake of the Kings). Located in the scenic area of Berchtesgaden, the lake and its picturesque church Saint Bartholomäus have been a tourist’s favorite for more than 200 years .

While you are in the area, definitely make sure to drop by at the famous Eagle’s Nest (or Kehlsteinhaus , how it is properly called). It was erected during the third Reich-era for special diplomatic receptions and was visited by Adolf Hitler many times. These days, it’s just a beautiful restaurant in a stunning setting.

Recommended tour: You can book an organized group tour here , which will be way easier than public transport

How to get there: I recommend you to book a tour or take the car. As an alternative, you could take the train to Salzburg and then catch Bus 841 to Schönau. From there, you can walk to the lake (1 kilometer)

14. Dachau Concentration Camp (40min)

Germany is a proud nation with a very long history and many accomplishments. We invented the computer, the car, the electro engine, planes, television, we reformed Christianity and so much more. But we also committed atrocities beyond imaginations.

The Nazi regime and Hitler are a stain we will never get rid off and one we should never forget either. Visiting one of the concentration camps, where hundreds of thousands of Jews and political enemies were killed under the most inhuman conditions might not be the most cheerful day trip from Munich, but it will leave a profound mark on your itinerary.

Recommended tour: This experience really calls for a guide, you can book it here .

How to get there: Take the suburban train S2 to Dachau. From here, you can catch bus 726 which will stop right in front of the memorial.

15. Rothenburg ob der Tauber (2h 30min)

I was somewhat reluctant to put Rothenburg ob der Tauber on this list of the best day trips from Munich. It’s quite far away. At the same time, the romantic medieval old town has always been a tourist’s favorite. If you start your day early, I’m sure you will enjoy your stroll through what once has been one of the Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire. Rothenburg is part of the world-famous Romantic Road.

Recommended tour: If you don’t want to navigate public transport and would like a guide, this is a tour I can really recommend .

How to get there: Rothenburg is actually not that close to Munich and you will have change trains 3 (!) times. First, you have to get to Nürnberg, then catch the train to Ansbach, from Ansbach to Steinach, and from Steinach to Rothenburg. As you don’t have a lot of time to reach the other tracks, a tour is probably better for first-timers.

16. Linderhof palace (1h 15min)

Linderhof is another beautiful residence of King Ludwig II you have to see. It’s perhaps the most private, most intimate place he commissioned and thus the most intriguing. It is also the only of his castles and palaces that got finished during his lifetime.

The small villa and it’s surrounding park was never meant to be an official place, but rather some kind of Hermitage for a man who was more constantly longing for the lost glory of past ages.

Related blog post: You can find a list of the top castles near Munich here .

Recommended tour: This is the tour I booked on my last trip . It is the fastest and best way to see the castle (& Neuschwanstein castle)

How to get there: Linderhof castle is located in the middle of nowhere and there are no easy direct connections by public transport. Book a tour or rent a car. As an alternative, you can take the train to Oberau, then catch the bus 9606 to Ettal and then another bus (9622) to the castle. It will take roughly 2 hours 30 minutes if you don’t miss any connections. The bus service can be a bit unreliable.

Note: Do drop by at the fantastic Ettal monastery which is only a 20-minute drive away.

17. Bayreuth (2h)

There are many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Bavaria, but in my opinion, Bayreuth beats them all. The Margravial Opera House is out of this world. Then there is the Eremitage and quite a host of other wonderful Baroque style buildings you won’t be able to see anywhere else. Bayreuth is one of my favorite day trips from Munich!

Related blog post: Check out my full Bayreuth travel guide here .

How to get there: The only feasible way to visit Bayreuth from Munich is taking the highspeed train to Nuremberg and then catch a connecting regional train to Bayreuth. Then, you will only need 2 hours to get there. Regional trains might take close to 4 hours.

18. Museum Buchheim (1h)

One of my personal favorite places to visit near Munich is the Museum Buchheim – or Buchheim Museum of Imagination. Buchheim was a German author and art collector. The museum is home to one of the finest collection of expressionist art and a beautiful starting point to explore idyllic lake Starnberg.

Note: Kloster Andechs is quite close. So why not combine the two for an extra special day trip

How to get there: There are direct trains to the city of Kochel from central station Munich (RB 59653), but you will have to get out in Bernried and then you can walk the rest (1 kilometer). There is a bus, but it basically makes no sense, as you will have to walk almost half the way to get to the next bus station.

19. Augsburg (30 min)

Augsburg is the third oldest city in Germany (founded in 15 BC!!) and played a major role in our history. There are magnificent buildings from the very earlier medieval times (like the Cathedral, founded in the 9th century), beautiful Renaissance architecture and the oldest social housing estate in the world (the Fuggerei ).  It’s also home to one of the very few Synagogues to survive the pogrom during WWII.

Related blog post: Read my Augsburg guide here .

How to get there: It’s quite easy to get from Munich to Augsburg. There are direct trains every 15 minutes. The highspeed train will only take 30 minutes, while the cheaper regional train takes 45 minutes to get there.

20. Ulm (1h 15min)

Ulm should be on any list of cities near Munich to visit. It’s not only the birthplace of Albert Einstein but also home to the tallest steeple in the world (161m / 520ft). The long and winding climb up the Ulm Minster is a truly unforgettable experience – both in terms of the pain your legs will experience and the amazing view in grants over the old town. I especially liked walking through the old fishermen’s quarter with its many half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets.

How to get there: There are direct trains from Munich central station to Ulm every hour.

21. Wieskirche (2h 20 min)

Close to the alps, there is a region known as the Paffenwinkel (the ‘shavelings quarter’). The people in this part of Bavaria have always been very religious and value their ancient traditions a lot. There is a sheer endless mass of outstandingly beautiful churches you can explore, but the Church of the Wies is probably the crowning achievement .

Right in the middle of nowhere, you’ll find a UNESCO World Heritage site of such beauty, it’s hard to comprehend. The small rococo church is famous for its awe-inspiring frescos . It also is an important pilgrimage site and weirdly enough not very popular among international tourists. This is entirely weird, as the most visited attraction in Germany (Neuschwanstein castle) is only 10 kilometers away.

Blogpost with more details: Here is my Wieskirche guide .

Available guided tours: I could only find this combined tour , which also visits Neuschwanstein castle.

How to get there from Munich: You have to take the train to Füssen and then there is a tourist bus right to the entrance. You could also rent a car and visit all the highlights in the area in one day.

22. Herrenchiemsee Palace (1 hour 30 minutes)

Visiting the fantastic Lake Chiemsee is one of my favorite tours from Munich. In summer, it’s a good place to escape the heat of the city, but most tourists want to visit the wonderful Herrenchiemsee Palace no matter the season. The Bavarian King Ludwig II visited Versaille in France and was so inspired by all that splendor that he too wanted a piece of it.

That’s why he commissioned the wonderful Herrenchiemsee Palace on a picturesque island on Lake Chiemsee. I love strolling through the park and just enjoying the beautiful scenery. There’s another island close by, the so-called Fraueninsel, which you should also check out. There are an ancient church and some lovely restaurants where you can eat fresh fish!

Recommended tour: Here is a wonderful direct tour to Herrenchiemsee .

How to get there: Probably the easiest way to get there is catching a train to the city Prien am Chiemsee, walk down to the harbor (or take the bus) and then take the ferry to one of the islands.

23. Kloster Weltenburg (1h 30 min)

There are many smaller and bigger monasteries near Munich. Ottobeuren, Ettal or Andechs instantly come to my mind. But probably none is as beautiful as the Weltenburg monastery. Being founded in 617 AD, it is also the oldest monastery in Bavaria .

To me, the setting makes Weltenburg so special. The view from the other side of the Danube is nothing short of spectacular . You should definitely combine your trip with a visit to the Hall of Liberation in Kehlheim, which is quite a beautiful neoclassical memorial.

How to get there: The only feasible way to get there is by renting a car. You’ll get there in about 90 minutes. Otherwise, you have to catch a train to Ingolstadt and then navigate the public bus network, which will be a bit frustrating and will take around 3 and a half hours.

24. Oberammergau (1h 45 min)

Air paintings are very popular in the rural areas of Bavaria. Often, you will find huge murals adorning the facades of private houses – most of them with a religious background. Sadly, it is slowly vanishing art. The town of Oberammergau is the exception. Virtually every house is painted one way or another .

Oberammergau is world-famous for its woodcarvers and it could be the perfect opportunity to buy a wonderful sculpture. There is one more thing you should know: Every 10 years the citizens are performing a Passion Play . It is recognized by the UNESCO and draws hundreds of thousands of tourists. And here is the good news: The next performance is scheduled to be in 2020. You can get your tickets here .

How to get there: Many tours to Neuschwanstein stop there, but you can also get there by public transport. Take the regional train to Murnau and then change into the train to Oberammergau. Takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes one way.

25. Fürstenfeld Abbey (25 minutes)

Just outside of Munich’s city gates, you will find a baroque masterpiece : The Fürstenfeld Abbey. Founded in 1258 AD by the Bavarian dukes, the huge monastic ensemble is often compared with the El Escorial in Madrid.

Related blog post: My Fürstenfeld Abbey guide

How to get there: Take the suburban train S4 to Geltendorf from the central station and get out at Fürstenfeldbruck

26. Therme Erding (1 hour)

Wondering what to do in Munich on a rainy & cold day? Well, you should know that you’ll find the largest thermal bath in Europe in Erding on the outskirts of Munich ( here is the official website ).

It is truly huge and separated into three main areas: The waterpark with plenty of slides for the kids, the wellness and swimming area, and the spa & sauna area for adults only.

How to get there: Suburban train S2 will get you to Altenerding in about 40 minutes. From here you have to catch bus number 550 directly to the thermal bath.

[Bonus] The best day trips for Kids: Legoland + Wildpark Poing

Searching for the best day trip from Munich with kids ? Then Legoland is what you are looking for. The Lego theme park is a wonderful mixture of rides and theme worlds built from Lego bricks. While young adults might still enjoy Legoland, it’s probably more suitable for ages 4-14.  Here is the link to the official website. 

Another wonderful place to visit with kids is the Wildpark Poing. It’s not so much a zoo and more like a safari park where a huge emphasis lies on species-appropriate husbandry . To give you a good impression: The housing of the bear is 30,000m² large. For adults and kids, I think this is the best way to experience the local wildlife in a sustainable way.  Here is a link to the official website .

Other day tours from Munich

Believe it or not, but calling this list finished would be a lie. There are many, many more beautiful day trips from Munich. I really didn’t mention Kehlheim, the Walhalla, Kempten and it’s Roman fort, nor Schwaz and its medieval silver mine. Even Erfurt in Thuringia is a possibility!

You also have to remember, that the Alps are only an hour’s drive away and there are so many beautiful hiking trails it would warrant another article (or two!). The surrounding area is also home to a couple of outstanding churches (like the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wieskirche).

Once it starts snowing, things change dramatically as well. A list of the best day trips from Munich in winter would definitely have to include all the amazing skiing resorts in Germany and across the Austrian border. Garmisch, Kitzbühl, Schladming, Stubai, and Ischgl instantly come to my mind. And let’s not forget the fabulous Christmas markets.

To tell you the truth: I have been living in Bavaria all my life and hardly a month passed where I did not explore something new. Ever since the Roman time new and outstanding architecture has been added, while the landscape has been developed by the local farmers since eons before. Certainly, there have been a couple of wars in between, but the remains still more than you could possibly explore in one lifetime.

Looking for more Munich inspiration? Here are some of my other articles:

• The 5 best hotels in Munich’s old town
• One day in Munich – What to see when time is short
• A self-guided Art Nouveau walking tour through Munich
• My Ultimate Oktoberfest Survival Guide

Anyway, I’ll conclude my list here. Hope you liked it. If you got any questions, feel free to drop me a comment below. And don’t forget to pin this to your Pinterest board.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

The 15 best things to do in Stuttgart, Germany

The 10 best things to do in Erfurt, Germany

The 15 best things to do in Weimar, Germany

Amazing post – thank you!

Visiting in late June, you’ve made me excited to be there and sorry we can’t stay longer already! I wanted to plan a special day while we’re there for my partners bday … we’re outdoor people and foodies. If you have any suggestions that would be much appreciated! Either way thanks for all the terrific info :) Karen Detroit, MI

thank you! I’m sure you will have a blast of a time. As for food suggestions – try to go to a beer garden at least once! :)

Such a great list! I’ve been to Munich and other parts of Bavaria several times (I used to live in Freiburg and now I live in Berlin) but there are still so many places to visit. I really like Nuremberg and Bamberg, haven’t been to Regensburg yet. And there are definitely more castles I need to see!

We’ve visited Wurzburg – it was very interesting, but the trip to Neuschwanstein was a bit questionable because of the amount of tourists, we have decided to choose the daytrip to Prague, it’s not that far from Munich.

Great post and thanks for the tips! Will be visiting Munich in Dec – will definitely check out some of these sights. Thanks again!

This is a fantastic post about the best day trips from Munich. There are so many places I would like to see and you gave it to one article so it would be easy to choose some and just go – as soon as travelling is possible again I would definitely use your post for picking the best trip!

Thank you again for this post and I wish you all the best!

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9 Incredible Day Trips from Munich You Can’t Miss!

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Exploring the Bavarian region of Germany with a day trip from Munich should be on everyone’s bucket list ! The southeastern corner of Germany is filled with gorgeous landscapes, beautiful cities, and centuries of history.

You can spend days exploring Munich, but don’t miss the rest of Bavaria! The entire region is brimming with natural wonders. The Bavarian Alps in the south are breathtaking. Every city and town has something to see or do, and one of the most impressive castles in the world is here.

Check out these 9 easy day trips from Munich. Pick a few favorites to add to your itinerary, or try them all!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

9 Easy Day Trips from Munich

Munich is the perfect home base for a southern Germany vacation. It’s a big city that not only packs a punch all its own but also provides a central location for staging day trips across Bavaria.

We’ve collected nine of the best day trips from Munich and included how long it’ll take you to get to each destination and the top must-see sights while you’re there.

Each of these day trips is amazing (or else we wouldn’t have recommended them), but don’t forget to leave time to explore Munich itself, too!

Without further ado, here are 9 easy day trips from Munich!

1. Salzburg, Austria

1hr 30min by train or car.

Just across the Austrian border to the east, Salzburg is an enchanting city. This is the home of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the Sound of Music , and there is always a musical event to attend.

Wander through beautiful gardens, visit the fortress overlooking the city, and see where a musical prodigy was born. And that’s just the Old Town!

I highly recommend spending a few days in Salzburg if you have the time , but a day trip from Munich is a good taster to make you want to come back.

Must-See Salzburg Sights

Hohensalzburg fortress.

Fantastic views and who doesn’t love a good castle? The funicular is a short and fun ride up the cliffs. Climb the Tower for the best views of the city! No lines at the end of the day, by the way. Grab a bite or a brew at the restaurants, and enjoy those views a little longer.

Salzburg Residence and Cathedral

Learn how the Prince-Archbishops lived when they ruled the region. The Residence showcases the state and private rooms and an art gallery.

Use the attached walkway for great views of Residenzplatz as you continue your tour into the Cathedral. The walkway takes you through the organ loft and offers amazing perspective down the length of the sanctuary. Amazing architectural details everywhere you look!

Mozart’s Birthplace (Geburtshaus)

Salzburg’s original poster boy, check out where Mozart was born and grew up. He made his musical debut at the age of 5 in the nearby Salzburg Cathedral and didn’t stop composing until the day he died. The museum focuses on Mozart’s family, early life, and musical history.

Pro Tip : Very popular and always crowded. The Mozart Wohnhaus across the river has similar exhibits with somewhat smaller crowds.

Mirabell Palace Gardens

Get that iconic picture of the gardens, palace, and Hohensalzburg Fortress in the distance. Go early to miss the crowds , or catch the sunset lighting up the fortress on the hill.

Pro Tip : Don’t miss the Dwarf Garden while you’re here! These statues are hilarious, in a nice shaded area, and easily accessible from the palace gardens.

2. Berchtesgaden

1hr 45min by car; 2h 45min by train/bus (train to salzburg/bus to berchtesgaden).

History and nature are the main reasons for visiting this quaint mountain village. Berchtesgaden National Park protects astonishing views and lakes in the Bavarian Alps.

If you’re a history buff, visit the Documentation Center and see Kehlsteinhaus (aka the Eagle’s Nest): Hitler’s Bavarian mountain chateau.

Pro Tip : Berchtesgaden is an even easier day trip from Salzburg. Consider a weekend getaway to Salzburg from Munich, for a day in Salzburg and a day in Berchtesgaden !

Must-See Berchtesgaden Sights

Documentation center and eagle’s nest.

Drive or take a bus (15min) up to Obersalzburg and visit the Documentation Center to learn about the area’s Nazi past. The museum is matter-of-fact and includes a tour of the underground bunker system.

Next, purchase a bus ticket to the Eagle’s Nest. It’s free to visit the chateau, but the roads are winding and narrow and not open to the public. You can either hike up the mountain for free or buy a bus ticket.

The views up top are amazing and a few short hikes along the ridge give you unparalleled views of the surrounding country.

The chateau itself is now a restaurant (eat lunch outside!) but historical plaques are found all around.

Fun Tip : Spot the photo of Hitler sitting on a lounge chair on the sun terrace where you’re standing.

Königssee (King’s Lake)

Save some time to see the beautiful Königssee! This gorgeous teal blue lake is part of the protected Berchtesgaden National Park and only a 10min drive or bus ride from central Berchtesgaden.

The lake gets its color from natural minerals in runoff from the surrounding mountains. The river in town is the same beautiful color!

Electric-powered ferries shuttle visitors to Kirche St Bartholomä (St Bartholomew’s Church) and take about 35min from dock to dock. The domes on this famous pilgrimage church are best admired from the lake, so have your camera ready.

Arrive around lunchtime and spend an afternoon by the water or in the beer garden. You can hike to some fantastic viewpoints, or even take the ferry on to Salet.

But bring a watch so you don’t miss the last ferry back!

Important : The lines for the ferry back get incredibly long in the late afternoon. Leave yourself plenty of time to wait for a ferry if you have to catch the last bus back to Salzburg to catch your train.

3. Nuremberg

1hr 10min by ice train; 2hr by car.

Nuremberg is for the history fans! This is another great option to spend a few days if you have the time , but a day trip from Munich works well.

Exit the train station and just start walking north for the Kaiserburg Castle. You’ll see everything else along the way and can pick and choose your stops as you go.

Must-See Nuremberg Sights

Kaiserburg nürnberg (imperial castle of nuremberg).

The armory alone is worth the visit! The first room with the procession of the Holy Roman Emperor is also fun to watch. This castle has been around since the 11 th century and has evolved over the years as regimes have changed.

Peek inside a medieval church or two.

Plenty to choose from on your walk from the train station to the castle: St Lorenz, Frauenkirche, and St Sebald’s being the largest three. Gush over architectural details that have stood since the 11 th century. They may not have had much technology, but they knew how to build beautiful cathedrals.

Rally Grounds and Documentation Center

A bit out of the center of town, take a bus or tram to the Documentation Center. Enter the immersive exhibit about how the Nazi party rose to fever pitch with the Nuremberg Rallies and ended with the Nuremberg Trials.

We saw several documentation centers on our epic 12 day trip, but the one in Nuremberg was by far the most comprehensive.

Hint : The last room in the museum features a wall-sized photo of Nuremberg after it was bombed. Center stage of that photo is St Sebald’s Church with its roof gone and windows blown out. It struck home with us because we visited St Sebald’s right before coming to this museum.

Continue out on the catwalk into the incomplete Congress Hall and understand the scale of this movement at its peak. If you have time, walk around the lakes and out to the Zepplinfield to further reflect.

Warning: Don’t be the idiot that does the Nazi salute or fake re-enacts rally speeches at the zeppelin grounds. It’s in poor taste, and it’s illegal.

>> Steal our complete one day in Nuremberg itinerary! <<

4. Füssen

1hr 30min by car; 2hr by train.

Neuschwanstein Castle, or the model for the Disney castle as some of you know it, has been on my bucket list for years! This is the most popular day trip from Munich, by far.

Take the train to Füssen and a short 15min bus ride to the village of Hohenschwangau, home of the castles!

That’s right, plural! Not just one but two castles to see here: Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau.

The town shares its name with Hohenschwangau because that castle has been there since medieval times.

Neuschwanstein was the product of King Ludwig II’s ego or vision, whichever you prefer, and wasn’t built until the 1860’s. King Ludwig II was an enormous supporter of the arts and wanted to literally build up Bavaria’s culture, no matter how much it cost.

Must-See Füssen Sights

Castles, of course.

Neuschwanstein Castle’s reputation for opulence precedes it, but Hohenschwangau Castle is decorated like a fairytale (and actually complete). Get the combo ticket and see both!

Tours are 30min, mandatorily guided, and timed entry. Don’t be late! With a combo ticket, you’ll visit Hohenschwangau first, have a 2 hour gap to get up the mountain, and then tour Neuschwanstein.

If you don’t want to go inside or listen to a guide, then visiting the outside is free! I’m personally all about the history and love the tours. The details and decorations in both castles are jaw-dropping and not to be missed!

Pro Tip : Order tickets online before your trip to guarantee your spot. Tickets can sell out months in advance during peak summer season.

Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge)

Chances are you’ve seen the same picture of Neuschwanstein every time; it’s just changed seasons from picture to picture. That iconic shot is taken from the Marienbrücke!

It gets crowded in peak season, but the views are 1000% worth the wait. If you have time continue across the bridge and along the path for another stunning viewpoint of the castle.

Pöllat Gorge Walk

Highly recommend this path for the walk down the mountain. The Pöllat River, which the Marienbrücke spans, falls into an awesome waterfall below.

The Pöllat Gorge path descends to the base of the waterfall and follows the river through the gorge and back to Hohenschwangau.

You’re literally walking over the river on portions of the trail. Wonderful shaded path in summer, but be mindful of ice in the winter.

5. Dachau

20min by s-bahn (train); 30min by car.

This suburb of Munich is largely known for its dark Nazi past, but the town was popular with Bavarian nobles for centuries before that. Fairs and festivals see the town turn out in their best dirndls and lederhosen!

We included this as a full day trip, despite being so close to Munich, because the concentration camp memorial will take a long time to see everything.

The museum alone took 2-3 hours if you read most exhibits and watch the short film, and you’ll want to walk the grounds as well.

>> What to Expect when Visiting Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial <<

Must-See Dachau Sights

Dachau concentration camp memorial site.

A truly haunting place to visit, but a must-visit site so that we never forget. This should be a place of remembrance and contemplation.

Dachau was the first camp, the model work camp filled primarily with political prisoners. Enter the camp through the notorious Arbeit Macht Frei gate (“Work Sets you Free”). (Auschwitz is the other infamous camp with this same phrase over its entrance.)

The exhibits in the museum include thousands of photos, artifacts, and descriptions of what life was like in the camp and the atrocities that happened there. It was a work camp, but it still has a gas chamber in the back.

A tour here can be disturbing and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Don’t bring your little ones, and be cautious with your tweens. Displays can be unsettling.

Warning : Don’t be the idiot taking selfies with the torture artifacts. Definitely saw a teen/20-something doing this, with a duck face no less. Get your act together, and show some respect.

Schloss Dachau (Dachau Palace)

End the day on a lighter note by visiting the old town of Dachau. Dachau Palace sits atop a hill with good views of Munich in the distance. Use the telescopes in the Hofgarten (garden) for secret views!

The ceiling of Dachau Palace is a stunningly detailed wooden Renaissance masterpiece, and the prime reason this is on the must-see list!

The ceiling was miraculously saved throughout centuries of renovations, and then sent off to the Bavarian National Museum in the mid 1800’s. It was finally returned to its proper place in the main ballroom at Schloss Dachau in 1977.

Pro Tip : Frequently rented out for events so check before you go. We arrived during an art exhibition, but the ticket taker kindly took us upstairs so we could get photographs of the ceiling and the staircases.

6. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

2hr 20min by car; 3h 30min by train.

This is where everyone gets that famous half-timbered houses pic for their Instagram. Fair warning: it’s swamped with tourists during peak season and for the Christmas markets. But this is still a fantastic example of a medieval German walled town.

I hesitated to include this one as a day trip from Munich. It’s pretty far by train, but could be manageable if you drive yourself.

If you’re working your way north, consider staying overnight and booking the Night Watchman’s Tour. Alternatively, it’s a good day trip from Nuremberg, too.

Pro Tip : There are several “Rothenburg” towns in Germany. Make sure you’re traveling to “ob der Tauber” (on the Tauber River).

Must-See Rothenburg ob der Tauber Sights

Half-timbered houses.

Just walking through the town is half the appeal. Those magnificent timbered houses are everywhere.

Medieval City Walls

Walk along the old city walls and pretend you’re on guard duty in the middle ages. All the old German towns were walled, but these in Rothenburg ob der Tauber are exceptionally well-preserved.

7. Zugspitze

1hr 10min by car or train.

Visit the highest mountain peak in Germany , and straddle the German-Austrian border! The Bavarian Alps pack amazing views every direction you turn. Enjoy lunch at the top!

Take the train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and then hop the bus to the Eibsee Cable Car.

Must-See Zugspitze Sights

The mountaintop, of course.

Check the weather before you go. Clouds are cool, but not if they obscure your entire view.

Eibsee (Lake)

If you have some time left, enjoy a walk around part of the Eibsee. Alpine lakes are gorgeous blue/teal hues, and this lake is no exception. Get some ice cream at the shop first, and then walk north from the parking lot along the lake to find the bridge over the lake for some great photos.

8. Linderhof Palace and Ettal Abbey

1hr 15min by car; no train route but many group bus tours from munich.

Linderhof Palace is another King Ludwig II building project. One that was actually completed. Ettal Monastery is a beautiful complex in the middle of the German countryside. The monastery is on the route to Linderhof Palace from Munich.

Tours often try to cram in Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, and Ettal Monastery into one trip. Recommend renting a car if you don’t want a rushed day trip from Munich.

Must-See Sights

Linderhof palace and grounds.

Originally his father’s hunting lodge, Ludwig II continually renovated the once simple wood-frame structure until finally arriving at the symmetrical stone-clad palace seen today.

Ludwig was obsessed with French culture, and this palace is decked out just as beautifully with tributes to France’s King Louis XIV in every room.

The Linderhof Grounds also mimic French royal parks with water features, fountains, and small “refuge” buildings spread throughout. Wander the park and discover gardens, buildings, and lakes.

Ettal Abbey

A Benedictine monastery founded in 1330, this beautiful complex is in the middle of nowhere. Just a fabulous abbey tucked into the mountains! The exterior architecture is photo-worthy, and the interior decoration is just as detailed and jaw-dropping.

There’s also a brewery and hotel, all provided by the monks, if you want to sip and stay awhile.

9. Herrenchiemsee Royal Palace

1hr by car or train.

Another Ludwig II building project: the Bavarian Palace of Versailles and its grounds. The building wasn’t meant to be a copy, even though it looks pretty close, but the grounds and fountains match its French counterpart to the last detail.

Take the train to Prien am Chiemsee and shuttle to the ferry dock for transport to the island. Ferries take about 20min from dock to dock. The various sites and buildings are spread out over the entire island, so leave time to walk between tours.

It’s so close, this day trip from Munich could be a half-day trip if you’re very short on time.

Must-See Island Sights

Royal palace.

The interior is available via 30min guided tour only. Take as long as you like in the gardens though!

The Ludwig II Museum, located in the ground floor of the Herrenchiemsee Palace, tells of the life of King Ludwig II and his contributions to Bavaria. He’s most well-known for his building projects and as a great patron of Richard Wagner.

Augustinian Monastery

The monastery buildings were gradually added over time until the current square with enclosed courtyard was formed in the late 1700’s. The monastery now houses a museum and art galleries.

Need Help Planning your Vacation with All These Day Trips from Munich?

If you need more inspiration for planning your Germany vacation based in Munich, we’ve got you covered.

• Epic Europe Trip: 4 Countries in 12 Days
• Explore Bavaria: 4 One Week Itinerary Ideas
• How to Get to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
• How to Spend a Day in Nuremberg
• How to Day Trip to Salzburg from Munich

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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This post has 5 comments.

This was a really well done post. I loved the details and photos. We are Jewish and my grandfather was liberated by US GI’s from Dachau. We’ve never been but it’s on my bucket list to honor his memory. Thank you for sharing.

What a lovely post with so much great info and tips! I lived near Munich for 4 months as a teenager and loved it. But sadly it has been so long I don’t remember a lot. This makes me want to go back and enjoy it again!

WOW those views from King’s Lake are stunning!! I love any place with some castles. It always feels so magical. Would love to visit.

How beautiful! I’m ashamed to say that as a German who’s lived in the country for 15 years, I haven’t been to Munich and the surrounding area a single time! I lived quite far away so I usually just went across the border to neighboring countries rather than explore my own country. I just realized how much I have to catch up with!

Love love loooove this! We spent our honeymoon in the Dolomites, so came home via Austria and Munich…we only had a taste of the city, but we could tell it would be a fantastic area to explore. This post just shows HOW fantastic!

I looove the looks of the mountains, the castles and Mary’s bridge! 😀

Comments are closed.

A Private Day Tour of the Zugspitze mountain from Munich Germany

• Ticketing for the cable car ride to the peak of Germany
• Private tour guide the entirety of the tour
• Chocolate samples
• Our "Coronavirus Safety Standard of Travel" on all vehicles and guides
• Entry/Admission - Zugspitze
• Food and drinks
• We offer pick up at your hotel or apartment in the city center of Munich.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• If weather does not allow for mountain access then secondary tour options will be available
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Zugspitze Stop: 3 hours - Admission included See details
• 2 Garmisch-Partenkirchen Stop: 60 minutes See details
• 3 Zugspitze Top of Germany Stop: 2 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• Pioneer00598238706 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Carriage Tour of Garmisch We had a wonderful time on our carriage tour of Garmisch! Jake told us many stories of the rich history of the area on the way to meet the carriage and was great with our young kids. This was a great way to take in all of the sights and my whole family loved it. I would absolutely book another tour with Jake and All Things Garmisch! Read more Written February 25, 2024
• jennamoonphx 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Enchanting and Exciting. Krampus and Christmas Markets I’d love to convey how absolutely amazing the Krampus tour is, but this tour is something one must experience first hand. There is no way to describe the feeling you get when you hear the bells clank knowing Krampus is near. I can’t adequately describe the bit of fear followed by the rush you get when Krampus comes near you, looks at you and maybe smacks you with a branch. It is exciting and invigorating! You walk away feeling like the travelers you just met are your teammates and partners in battle regaling tales of narrowly escaping Krampus, or of being scared to get flogged as Krampus approaches but instead being marked with coal on the face. As a solo female traveler in her 40s, I can attest to the excellent tour content, the safety, the positive group dynamic, and the sound logistics and communication of Jake, Drew and All Things Garmisch. I saw Jake and Drew oversee care for a fellow traveler who needed an emergency room and then a specialist appointment. They handled the situation appropriately and without incident. As a former clinical liaison, I was glad to see it. Our group was the Krampus Tour and we mingled with the Christmas Market tour also. The ages of people on our Krampus Tour spanned 30s to 70s, and it seemed most of us were 40s and 50s, and I’d say there’s something for everyone. Some people kept to their family or group while many of us became friends and spent time eating street food, shopping together and occasionally shutting down bars. This trip is perfect for most people whether seasoned travelers, solo travelers, female travelers, and couples or friend groups old and young. I would advise you to have adequate mobility as there are stairs to climb and hills to walk. This is not appropriate for the mobility impaired, but that is the only restriction I’d advise. Read more Written December 8, 2023
• mari0eb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great time. The VIP tour was a little pricey, but well worth the experience. Angus the tour guide was an excellent host. Great time, great people. Read more Written October 25, 2023
• tyler034987103498712 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Jake & company are great Jake and his wonderful team, Monya, Drew were tons of fun, very well organized, and very adaptable. They were sure to budget for unexpected delays, like a few stragglers getting out of bed a few mins late, or traffic delays, etc. He would pick up on our individual interests and think hard about how to cater to them to make our trip really special and meaningful. Jake was extremely knowledgeable and was able to answer just about any question we could think of, as well as provide interesting historical and cultural insights. Read more Written October 12, 2023
• gjrakkar 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An Amazing Trip! 5 Stars, 10 out of 10, 100%!!! Whatever metric you use, this trip gets the highest score. I went on the Oktoberfest trip with a group of 11 others and we all agreed that it was one of the best trips of our lives! The airport pickups were thoughtful and staying in Garmisch was an excellent idea. Jake planned several activities for our group and they were all really fun. Highlights include - 3 days at Oktoberfest with table reservations (spread out over the 10 days), two castle tours, hot air balloon ride, cable car rides up the German alps, visits to breweries, a really fun apple strudel class followed by a 6 course dinner with beer pairing, and a Mozart concert in Salzburg in a building constructed in the 600s. The accommodations were perfect, and once we landed we didn't have to worry about a thing. If you are looking for a fun way to enjoy Oktoberfest without the hassle of planning a trip thru a foreign country, this is it. It was absolutely worth it. Prost! Read more Written October 12, 2023
• B892GFmichaelb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best day at Neuschwanstein castle Jake was an incredible guide. Him being an obvious history buff my wife and I learned so much about Austrian and Bavaria royal families and the decisions they made to hold their countries together. Jake also provided deeper insights into what King Ludwig was like and what helped to shape the decisions he made. I could not imagine going to Neuschwanstein Castle without a guide like Jake and so glad we made the investment. Read more Written October 11, 2023
• lindsaywN7402OY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Ultimate Bavarian Experience My husband and I booked a 10 day "Bavarian Beer Vacation" trip with Jake. Included were tours of Garmish-Partenkirchen, Neuschwanstein, breweries, Zugspitze, Herrenchimsee Palace, Oberammagau, Munich, Saltzburg, and Sound of Music. In addition, we took a hot air balloon ride, took an apple strudel making class, went to a Mozart Concert, and attended Oktoberfest twice with table reservations in the tents. Jake is incredibly knowledgeable and his love for the content he shares is evident in his storytelling. My husband and I were put with a small group of 11 other people making the tour feel friendly and intimate. On our trip we ate delicious Bavarian food, drank many beers, learned a ton of history, and marveled in the beauty of Germany and Austria. We had THE best time and were sad to be leaving at the end of our trip. Read more Written September 27, 2023
• Delbert_12 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Hassle free Castle visit David was a great guide and gave us lots of information about the fascinating castle and the beautiful region- he was easy going and fun. The tour gives a nice day long overview of the area and the castle and church were highlights - we recommend this tour as a great way to see the castle with a minimum of hassle and then a leisurely tour of the gorgeous area . Read more Written September 1, 2023
• lilianah553 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing The views were awesome. We took a lot of pictures. Jake is an excellent guide, well documented but also creative and enthusiast. Read more Written August 23, 2023
• TeamTannerTx 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Picturesque Beautiful little tourist town in picturesque setting. Tour through castle is limited and almost feels like a movie set. But so worth the drive and scenery in particular. Read more Written August 3, 2023
• DGW8660MS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Private Tour Experience! Jake personalized a private tour into Lago Di Garda (Italy) area, with stops in Innsbruck (Austria), Bolzano, Verona and Sirmione. Our adventure included an overnight stay at Hotel Ansitz Rungghof (Bolzano), surrounded by vineyards and amazing views. A private cooking class w/ a renowned Chef overlooking breathe taking views of Lago Di Garda. Cultural, food and wine tasting city tours of Bolzano and Verona. Several night stay (at Piccola Vela Hotel) in Desenzano del Garda. Our garden room was steps away from their pool and well-manicured garden. Our last night, we attended a superb dining experience at Osteria La Frasca, highly recommend for its meals and attentive staff. We closed the tour in scenic Sirmione. Jake was attentive and we seriously underpaid for this adventure. Read more Written July 14, 2023
• Connie S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Zugspitze, a must do Jim was fantastic, you couldn't have asked for a better tour guide. He has an incredible knowledge of the area's history and general knowledge. He was very accommodating and if we had any things that we particularly wanted to see he insured that we saw or did them. He made suggestions of beautiful photos to take and fun photos to do. From the time that the tour company contacted us they were helpful and kept in contact with us, using whatsapp or email for contact with us. We highly recommend this tour to anyone. An excellent tour. Read more Written June 21, 2023
• jaime w 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great intro to German Sauna This was an amazing trip! I’d never been to a sauna before, the guide Jake went over all of details of Sauna, the faculty, proper etiquette, all the different types of faculties offered, what each floor had to offer and so much more! My group wasn’t able to go in the evening and Jake was able to accommodate a day tour for us. There is also a female guide available from the tour company if you want. The faculty has robes and towels, lunch, desserts and an expansive swim up bar back up against the most beautiful lake and maintains. Read more Written June 16, 2023
• afar44 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Jake and all things Garmisch was awesome! Jake was great! Met us at our hotel, and took us to coffee pastry shop, and then to Castle. Jake really knows his history and how to tell a story. He was very informative and is an all-around great guy. We had an amazing lunch afterwards overlooking the castle. Went to a nice Bavarian town and walked around and also to the monastery. Jake makes the trip great, and we really enjoyed our day with him and look forward to doing additional trips with him in the future! Read more Written June 10, 2023
• VanceWiley8615 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Canceled On Us Last Minute Well, might be ok ? They canceled on us at the last minute 3 days before our paid in full RSVP. Made our rsvp 6 months ago, booked & paid for hotel in Garmisch. Never made it to Neuschwanstein Castle. We tried to book with other companies, they where all booked up. So maybe in my next life I can go visit this castle. Read more Written April 17, 2023

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A Private Day Tour of the Zugspitze mountain from Munich Germany provided by All Things Garmisch - Day Tours

3-Day Bavarian Alps Itinerary: Neuschwanstein, Berchtesgaden

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While a 3-day trip may not be enough to fully experience the Bavarian Alps, it’s certainly sufficient to visit some of the region’s most beautiful and noteworthy destinations, such as Neuschwanstein Castle and Berchtesgaden.

These two attractions are located on opposite ends of the Bavarian Alps, with Neuschwanstein on the westernmost side and Berchtesgaden on the easternmost side. However, visiting both is not entirely impractical.

In fact, you can visit both even if you’re based in a single city, Munich. By choosing to stay in Munich, you’ll also have the opportunity to explore what makes this city so amazing!

With these destinations on your itinerary, you can look forward to a 3-day trip that offers a blend of different experiences, making your journey truly worthwhile. From cultural discoveries and architectural marvels in Munich to the enchanting sights of Neuschwanstein Castle and the breathtaking natural beauty of Berchtesgaden, you should be more than excited for a trip guided by this itinerary!

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IMPORTANT : Before we dive into the specifics of this 3-day Bavarian Alps itinerary, let’s set some expectations.

• Firstly, while this itinerary promises a visit to many places, it’s important to understand that time constraints may limit the depth of each experience .
• This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors, as it provides a personal introduction to various attractions in the Bavarian Alps . The experiences gained here should inspire a return visit for a more dedicated exploration of the attractions that piqued their interest the most.
• Lastly, this itinerary is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time during their visit to Bavaria and the Bavarian Alps , rather than those seeking a completely laid-back trip.

If you’re seeking a vacation filled with numerous discoveries in the Bavarian Alps, I would recommend planning a 7-day Bavarian Alps trip . This duration allows ample time to explore and experience the region’s diverse attractions.

However, if your goal is to experience all the highlights this region has to offer, then a 10-day Bavarian journey would be even better. This extended timeframe ensures you won’t miss out on any of the must-see sights and experiences in the Bavarian Alps.

For more information about Bavarian Alps (planning your trip and tips) check my post about the 20 Things to Do in Bavarian Alps .

To summarize, your 3-day trip to the Bavarian Alps will take you to three main attractions: Munich, Neuschwanstein Castle, and the Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden.

• Day 1 marks your arrival in Germany. This day should be dedicated to all the necessary preparations for the trip (example, dropping your bags on your hotel, buying SIM cards and more). Once everything is set, you can spend the rest of the day exploring Munich’s rich culture, history, and architecture.
• Day 2 is reserved for a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle , the most famous tourist attraction in the Bavarian Alps. If time permits, you can also stop by Lindenhof Palace and Oberammergau to make the most of your day.
• Day 3 is all about immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Berchtesgaden . From the town, you’ll visit the Eagle’s Nest, another iconic historical landmark in the Bavarian Alps, and Konigsee, one of the most picturesque lakes in Germany. If time allows, you can also join a tour of the town’s historic Salt Mine. This itinerary promises a blend of cultural, historical, and natural experiences, making your 3-day trip to the Bavarian Alps truly memorable.

Neuschwanstein Castle and Berchtesgaden are both accessible from Munich via public transportation, including trains and buses.

However, I would advise against relying solely on public transportation. The reason being, the travel duration from Munich could consume valuable time that could be better spent exploring each destination. I’ll provide more details on this later.

If possible, consider renting a car. This can significantly reduce your travel time. Alternatively, joining a tour can offer the utmost convenience, allowing you to make the most of your visit to these stunning locations.

If you’re still in the process of securing accommodation, you can find the best hotel deals in Munich here.

Day 1: Munich

Munich is the most convenient city to start your three-day Bavarian Alps trip, whether you’re flying into the Bavarian Alps or coming from other European cities. It’s the capital of Bavaria and the gateway to the Bavarian Alps.

Most importantly, Munich is a beautiful destination by itself, with many places to visit . That’s why you’ll also be spending time in Munich on this three-day Bavarian Alps trip.

Arriving in Munich in the morning gives you a full afternoon and evening to soak in the city’s charm. Even in this short time, you can have a variety of delightful experiences. Start with a leisurely stroll around Marienplatz, the city’s central square, and take in the grandeur of the New Town Hall. Next, visit Viktualienmarkt, a bustling food market.

Afterwards, enjoy a peaceful walk in the English Garden, one of the city’s largest public parks. End your day by immersing yourself in Bavarian culture at the Hofbräuhaus, a renowned beer hall.

To maximize your time, consider joining a walking tour of the city, particularly through Munich’s old town. This area is home to some of the city’s most stunning architecture. Being part of a tour allows you to uncover the fascinating history behind these buildings. A bonus of joining a tour is the opportunity to ask your guide for insider tips and the latest happenings in the city.

Feel free to ask your tour guide about the latest attractions in the city. You might also want to inquire about the best spots to enjoy panoramic views of Munich. Don’t hesitate to ask about the currently trending restaurants in the city. Following their recommendations will surely make your time in Munich unique and memorable.

If you’re a fan of stunning vistas and want to catch a sunset in Munich, the Olympic Tower would be my top pick.

The Olympic Tower , soaring at a height of 291 meters, offers the highest viewpoint in Munich. You can ascend to the viewing platform, situated at a dizzying 185 meters, via super-fast lifts. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Alps in the distance.

Day 2: Western Bavarian Alps (Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, Oberammergau)

Your second day in the Bavarian Alps promises to be magical, with visits to two fairy-tale landmarks and a stroll through a village that seems straight out of a storybook. Your destinations are Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Oberammergau.

Neuschwanstein Castle is the top highlight of the Bavarian Alps and should be your priority. Given the time it takes to fully explore the castle and its surroundings, you might want to save Linderhof Palace and Oberammergau for another day. This is especially true if you’re visiting Neuschwanstein Castle on DIY and relying on public transportation.

It’s worth noting that it’s quite challenging to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Oberammergau in a single day using public transportation. There are no direct bus routes connecting these places. While it’s possible to travel from Neuschwanstein Castle to Oberammergau and Linderhof Palace by bus, it involves two transfers and can take up to three hours, which might not be the best use of your time.

However, if you have a driver or are driving yourself, visiting all three places in one day is feasible. Oberammergau is just a 45-minute drive from Neuschwanstein Castle, and Linderhof Palace is a mere 15 minutes from Oberammergau.

If you prefer not to drive and want a hassle-free experience, joining a tour is a convenient option. There are several tours from Munich that visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Oberammergau in a single day. There are also tours dedicated solely to Neuschwanstein Castle.

To help you decide whether to dedicate your day to Neuschwanstein Castle or include Linderhof Palace and Oberammergau in your itinerary, let’s explore the unique attractions each location has to offer.

Morning of Day 2: Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle, with its fairytale-like appearance, is a sight to behold. Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the castle is a blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine architectural styles. Despite its medieval design, it was equipped with the latest technological comforts of the time.

Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle is like stepping into a storybook. The castle, with its towers and turrets, is so enchanting that it inspired Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. It’s not just a visual treat, but also a journey into history, having been built as a retreat for King Ludwig II and in honor of composer Richard Wagner.

The castle’s location, perched on a rugged hill in the Bavarian Alps, offers breathtaking views that are sure to leave you spellbound. Inside, you’ll find rooms adorned with frescos inspired by Wagner’s operas and old German myths. To make the most of your visit, consider booking a guided tour inside the Castle. This will give you a deeper understanding of the castle’s history and architecture.

I’ve prepared an article about Neuschwanstein Castle and its surrounding attractions . This guide will guide you and help you make the most of your time during your visit.

Afternoon of Day 2: Oberammergau

After departing from Neuschwanstein Castle, your next stop on the second day of your three-day Bavarian trip will be Oberammergau. This is simply because it’s much closer to Neuschwanstein Castle, whether you’re traveling by car or bus.

Oberammergau has several attractions that make it worth visiting . If you wish, you can spend an entire day in this town. However, for a 3-day Bavarian Alps trip, I believe an hour would be sufficient. This will allow you to see the aspects of this village that make it a unique destination in the Bavarian Alps.

Oberammergau is a charming village; one of the places in the Bavarian Alps with the richest history and culture. It’s best known for its once-a-decade Passion Play, a tradition that has been upheld for over 400 years. The play is a community affair, with half the town’s residents participating in the performance.

As you wander through the town, you’ll notice the intricate wood carvings in the local shops. This craft is deeply rooted in the town’s culture. You’ll find everything from religious figures to whimsical toys and humorous portraits.

The buildings in Oberammergau are a sight to behold, adorned with beautiful frescoes depicting Bavarian themes, fairy tales, and religious scenes. This art form, known as “Lüftlmalerei”, originated here in a house called Zum Lüftl, home to the renowned painter Franz Seraph Zwinck.

If you’re planning a brief visit, start with the historic Passion Play Theater or Pilatushaus . Then, take a leisurely stroll through the town center, admiring the frescoes and popping into woodcarver shops. If you have a little extra time, treat yourself to some local Bavarian cuisine at a cozy café.

Additional Destination for Day 2: Linderhof Palace

If you feel that you’ve fully immersed yourself in Neuschwanstein Castle in the morning of the second day of your Bavarian Alps trip, you might choose to skip Linderhof Palace. While the two landmarks are distinct in their own right, they share a common thread – their connection to King Ludwig II. This shared history contributes to the similar experiences they offer.

For the sake of variety and new discoveries, it could be more rewarding to spend additional time exploring Oberammergau after your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle.

Suppose you still wish to visit Linderhof Palace after your trip to Oberammergau, and time permits. In that case, there are several exciting aspects of Linderhof Palace that you might look forward to.

Linderhof Palace, nestled in the Ettaler Forest of Bavaria, Germany, is renowned for its stunning gardens and various park buildings. It’s the smallest of the three palaces built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, and the only one he saw completed. The palace, inspired by Versailles, boasts a hall of mirrors and a dining room famous for its disappearing dumbwaiter in the middle of the dining table.

If you’re planning a short visit to Linderhof Palace, start by stopping at the Moroccan House on your way from the parking lot. Then, pass the Royal Lodge, originally located where the palace now stands.

After touring the palace, take some time to admire the beautiful gardens to the east and west. Near the east garden is St Anna Chapel, the oldest building in the Linderhof complex. End your visit at the Temple of Venus, which offers the best view of Linderhof Palace.

For more detailed information on how to spend your time at Linderhof Palace, you can refer to the palace’s official website .

Day 3: Eastern Bavarian Alps (Berchtesgaden Eagle’s Nest, Salt Mine, Konigssee)

On the previous day of your three-day trip to the Bavarian Alps, you’ll explore Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Oberammergau, immersing yourself in the region’s rich heritage.

For the third day, you’ll fully embrace the natural beauty of the Bavarian Alps, a must-see for any visitor. But where should you go from Munich? You have several options, including Mittenwald and Garmisch-Partenkirchen . However, I highly recommend the town of Berchtesgaden, located in the southeastern corner of the country.

Berchtesgaden offers a richer blend of experiences, from historical sites atop mountains (Eagle’s Nest) to adventures beneath them (Salt Mine), and a visit to one of Germany’s cleanest and most picturesque lakes (Konigssee).

Here’s how you can spend a day in Berchtesgaden visiting these attractions:

• Experience all : Konigssee (Morning) —> Eagle’s Nest (Lunch or Early Afternoon) —> Salt Mine (Late Afternoon)
• Nature focused : Konigssee (Whole morning until late lunch) —> Eagle’s Nest (Afternoon)
• Cloudy weather : Konigssee + Salt Mine + Old Town Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden’s proximity to Salzburg, just a few kilometers away, is another advantage. A 30-minute car ride or an hour by public transportation will take you to this Austrian city, offering an opportunity for even more memorable travels if you wish to extend your Bavarian trip.

Salzburg is home to historical landmarks and musical experiences inspired by Mozart and the movie “The Sound of Music”, among other attractions. If you wish, you can conclude your journey in the Bavarian Alps with Salzburg as your final stop. The city has its own airport, making it a convenient departure point for your return home.

Considering the travel duration from Munich to Berchtesgaden, which is approximately an hour and a half by car or two and a half hours by train, a round trip from Munich may not be the most efficient option. A more practical itinerary would be to travel from Munich to Berchtesgaden, then on to Salzburg after spending the whole day at Berchtesgaden’s tourist attractions. This is actually my recommendation .

However, there can be advantages to making a round trip from Munich to Berchtesgaden, especially if you’re interested in exploring more of southern Germany . This region is home to a host of beautiful destinations, including Nuremberg , Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber , Wurzburg , Bamberg , and more.

Anyway, let’s return to the topic of the day trip to Berchtesgaden. Unlike the second day of your three-day Bavarian Alps trip, where hiring a car or joining a tour is essential to make the most of your day, doing so for the third day isn’t as necessary.

However, if you’re visiting Berchtesgaden for the first time, I would recommend joining a tour to maximize your time. Visiting places like Eagle’s Nest and Konigssee can be a little bit complex and require several steps and additional research to fully experience them.

But don’t worry, if you prefer to visit these places on your own, I will provide the necessary information for a do-it-yourself approach using my posts Things to Do in Berchtesgaden and Scenic Spots in Berchtesgaden . Below is the summary of how you can spend the day in Berchtesgaden visiting Eagle’s Nest, and Salt Mine, and Konigssee.

Good Weather Must-See: Eagle’s Nest

Perched high atop the Kehlstein mountain, the Eagle’s Nest or Kehlsteinhaus is a historic site near the town of Berchtesgaden in southeast Germany. Built by the Nazis, it was used for government and social meetings. Its high, remote location led the Allies to name it the Eagle’s Nest.

Visiting the Eagle’s Nest is like stepping back in time. You’ll be walking through the same rooms where members of the Nazi Party once gathered. The building itself is an architectural marvel, featuring a golden elevator and a famous Italian marble fireplace.

But it’s not just about history. The Eagle’s Nest offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bavarian Alps. And if you’re a foodie, you’ll love the restaurant. Try to get a table on the outdoor terrace for the best views of Berchtesgaden and the lake.

In my view, lunchtime is the ideal moment to visit the Eagle’s Nest during a three-day excursion to the Bavarian Alps. The lunch experience is truly one-of-a-kind, offering a feast for both your eyes and taste buds.

However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, particularly during the busy season, an early morning visit could be a good option. This allows you to soak in the serenity of the surroundings.

Before setting off, it’s a good idea to visit the Eagle’s Nest’s official website . Here, you’ll find all the information you need for your visit. You can also get a glimpse of the current view from the Eagle’s Nest through the live webcam on the site. While the Eagle’s Nest is a fantastic destination when the weather is clear, it’s worth considering other attractions if the view is obscured by clouds.

Here is a quick summary of how you can get to Eagle’s Nest from Berchtesgaden:

• First, travel from Berchtesgaden Hbf to the Eagle’s Nest Bus Stop, also known as Kehlstein Busabfahrt. This is where you can also park your car.
• From the Eagle’s Nest Bus Stop, you’ll board the RVO Bus 849 . This bus will take you to the Eagle’s Nest Tunnel, or Kehlsteinparkplatz. Please note that you’ll need to purchase separate tickets for this bus. Also, you cannot drive your car on this route. This part of the journey can only be covered by Bus 849.
• Finally, you’ll walk through the tunnel and ride the elevator to get to the Eagle’s Nest.

Cloudy Weather Alternative: Salt Mine

Berchtesgaden boasts of an ancient Salt Mine, the oldest in Germany. This is another highlight of the area. In case your visit to the Eagle’s Nest is hindered by unfavorable weather, the Salt Mine presents a convenient alternative. This way, you won’t have to spend your time waiting for the skies to clear.

The thing is, Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, nestled under the mountains of Bavarian Alps, is a fascinating place to visit. It’s not just any salt mine; it’s the oldest active one in Germany. The mine has been extracting salt since before the 13th century, and it was the economic backbone of the Berchtesgaden Provostry.

When you visit, you’ll be taken on a journey deep into the heart of the mountain. A miners’ train will whisk you 650 meters (2,133 feet) below the surface. There, you’ll find a gigantic salt cathedral and a thrilling miner’s slide. You’ll also get to see 3D animations that bring the process of salt mining to life. And the highlight? A boat trip across an underground salt lake. It’s an hour-long adventure that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Getting there from Old Town Berchtesgaden is straightforward. You can hop on a regional bus ( RVO 837 or RVO 848 ) from the Berchtesgaden Hbf and get off at the Salzbergwerk (Salt Mine) stop. Just remember to check the current bus schedules and routes as they may vary.

Before setting off on your journey, it’s a good idea to visit the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine’s official website . This will provide you with any recent announcements that might affect your visit. Additionally, the website will have the most up-to-date information on opening hours. This will help you plan your visit to make the most of your time at the mine.

Unmissable Destination: Konigssee

If you’re ever in Berchtesgaden, there’s one place you simply can’t miss – Konigssee. This is particularly true if you’re a photographer or a nature enthusiast. The breathtaking natural beauty of this place is sure to leave you spellbound.

Konigssee, tucked away in the Berchtesgaden National Park, is a sight to behold. This natural lake, formed by glaciers during the last ice age, is Germany’s third deepest and is renowned for its crystal-clear water. Surrounded by towering mountains, it’s often hailed as the country’s most beautiful Alpine lake.

Imagine embarking on a boat ride across this pristine lake, with the steep mountain flanks providing a dramatic backdrop. As you glide across the water, you’ll hear fascinating stories and legends about the lake from your boat guide.

The highlight? The moment when the guide plays a trumpet, and you hear the sound echoing off the mountain walls. It’s an experience that’s as magical as the scenery itself.

If you have 2 to 3 hours to spare, you can opt for the shortest boat ride. This ride includes a stop at the Saint Bartholomew Church, nestled in the middle of the lake. This brief visit should be enough to let you soak in the beauty of Konigssee. It’s a place that will make you yearn to return soon!

The church in Konigssee isn’t just any ordinary church. It’s a Roman Catholic pilgrimage church with a rich history. The first structure was built in 1134, and it was later rebuilt in a Baroque style in 1697.

Every year, a pilgrimage to St. Bartholomew’s is held. It starts from the Austrian municipality of Maria Alm and crosses the Berchtesgaden Alps. This annual event adds to the historical significance of the church.

Traveling from Berchtesgaden to Konigssee is a breeze. If you’re taking public transportation, hop on bus no. 841 or 842. These buses will take you directly to Schoenau am Koenigssee. The journey is short and sweet, with bus no. 841 getting you there in about 10 minutes, and bus no. 842 in around 20 minutes.

If you’re keen to explore Konigssee further, a visit to its official website is a must. Here, you’ll find the boat ride schedules that can help you plan your visit. The website also hosts a wealth of other important information and a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section . This can provide answers to any queries you might have about your visit.

Where to Go Next After Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps, as you can see from the 3-day itinerary, is a destination filled with incredible experiences. It offers everything from castles and quaint villages to mountains, lakes, and even salt mines. This wonderful destination truly has something for everyone.

If you’re planning a longer vacation and the Bavarian Alps is just one stop on your journey, there are plenty of other places brimming with beautiful scenery and fascinating discoveries. You don’t even have to leave Germany to find them. The Black Forest , another mountainous region in Baden-Württemberg, is one such place.

If you’re a car enthusiast, Stuttgart is a must-visit. This city is home to the Porsche Museum and Mercedes-Benz. Near Stuttgart, you’ll find Lichtenstein Castle , a beautiful castle much like Neuschwanstein Castle.

For a different experience, consider destinations outside Germany. One recommendation is to visit one of the most beautiful villages in the South of France . Alternatively, you could explore the beautiful destinations in Northern Italy . Each of these places promises a unique and memorable experience.

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‎ Germany ‎ > Munich > Best Day & Top Side Trips From Munich

Top 10 Munich Tips | Suggested Itineraries For Munich

• Top 10 Things To Do
• Old Town Walking Tour
• English Garden Walking Tour
• Oktoberfest
• Dachau Memorial
• More Sights
• Overview & Dates
• Top 25 Oktoberfest Tips
• Best Beer Tents
• How To Dress
• Most Popular Songs
• Table Reservations
• Beer and Wine Tips
• History Of Oktoberfest
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Tourist Tips
• Suggested Itineraries for Munich
• Transportation Tips
• Historical Overview

Top Day Trips From Munich:

Because of its central location in Bavaria and Germany’s vast train system, it is easy to take a day trip from Munich to some of the best sights in Europe.  It seems like every time we visit Munich we find a new unbelievable village or castle within a close striking distance.  With Munich as your base camp, the options can feel endless, but we have narrowed down a great list covering all of the best day and side trips.  Hope you enjoy our top day trips from Munich!

Train Tickets & Transportation Info:

1. Neuschwanstein Castle ( 2 Hours & 15 Minutes ):

About Neuschwanstein Castle : Tucked away on the edge of the Alps mountain range, the top day trip from Munich is the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein ( Noy-shvahn-shtine ).  This castle is so impressive that Walt Disney used Neuschwanstein as the model for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in the hit 1959 film as well as his theme parks and company logo.  From the castle’s timeless design and lavish interior to the Alpine setting overlooking a lake, you’ll quickly understand why visitors from all over the world love Neuschwanstein so much.

While Neuschwanstein Castle may look like it is straight out of the Middle Ages, it was actually the work of Bavarian King Ludwig II in the mid-1800s.  Ludwig was inspired by Romanticism, the operas of his friend Richard Wagner, and the former Medieval castle ruins that once stood on the perch where Neuschwanstein was built.  Neuschwanstein ( which means New Swanstone Castle ) is filled with everything from a man-made grotto cave to grand halls, a Byzantine-style throne room, and embellished bedrooms that only a theater mind could drum up.  While touring the inside of this wondrous castle, you’ll see where Ludwig’s imagination and spending both went wild.

One huge added bonus of visiting Neuschwanstein as a day trip from Munich is that you also get to tour King Ludwig’s boyhood castle Hohenschwangau ( Ho-en-shvahn-gau ) which is just downhill from the main attraction.  The bright orange-colored Hohenschwangau Castle was built for the family by Ludwig’s father King Maximilian II and is where the young prince grew up.

Made in the Gothic style, Hohenschwangau Castle was built over the ruins of the former fortress of the Knights of Schwangau .  These knights had controlled the region from the 1100s until 1535 and had three ruined castles, one where Hohenschwangau sits, and two that Ludwig eventually built his masterpiece Neuschwanstein over.  It is said that many of Ludwig’s fantasy castle ideas came from staring up at the remaining ruins as a boy.

Touring both properties during your day trip from Munich is a must as it gives you a lot deeper insight into the secluded life of the King behind what may be Europe’s greatest castle.  In his day, Ludwig was nicknamed the Mad King due to his uncontrolled personal spending on over-the-top building projects.  As time has passed, however, Ludwig has become beloved in Bavaria for the beauty of his projects and Neuschwanstein Castle is now a national treasure.

One of our favorite things to do at Neuschwanstein is to explore Mary’s Bridge ( closed mid-Winter )   which spans a large waterfall behind the Castle.  You’ll get excellent views of the castle’s profile and access to hiking trails for even more viewpoints.  Just as fun as the castles is taking a paddleboat out onto nearby Swan Lake just like the young King Ludwig did in his childhood.   There is even a Summer luge slide within one mile of Neuschwanstein.

Ambitious day-trippers from Munich can also explore the nearby village of Füssen before leaving the area which has a Medieval Archbishop palace and a delightful old town that dates back to Roman times.  If you have a car, you can also consider visiting Mad King Ludwig’s Linderhof Palace on the way back to Munich.

Getting Here From Munich By Train : Take the train directly from Munich to Füssen ( 2:05 ) then either Bus 73 or 78 directly to the Castles’ ticket office ( 0:10 ) from outside the Füssen train station.  Consider getting the Bayern Pass for the train, explained above, to save money which is valid for the round-trip regional train travel all day on weekends or anytime after 9am on weekdays.  By Rental Car : It takes 1:45 by rental car which isn’t necessary just to save you 30 minutes but does give you the flexibility to explore old town Füssen or nearby Linderhof Palace before returning to Munich.

Tour Hours : April to October 15th 9am-6pm; October 16th through March 10am-4pm; Closed on Christmas Eve & Day, New Year’s Eve & Day.  Tour Cost : 13€ for one castle or 25€ for both; free is under 18 years old.  Booking  Tour Tickets : This is the crown jewel of Europe’s fairytale castles and therefore and you need to book your tickets a couple of weeks in advance.  They have a limited number of daily tickets and are usually sellout 2-14 days ahead of time.  We suggest booking 4-5 weeks early to be safe in the Summer or on any weekend.  Tickets must be picked up 90 minutes before your tour time.  Same-Day Tickets : Each day there is a very limited amount of in-person tickets you can buy if you get there when the ticket office opens ( 7:30am in Summer or 8:30am in Winter ).  Every time we have done this our tour time ended up being between 1-3pm and we have heard of people getting there just opening and all the in-person tickets were already gone.  Reservations Phone : +49 (0) 8362-930830.  Official Online Tickets : HERE .

Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : A strong 10 out of 10.

2. Salzburg, Austria ( 1.5-2 Hours ):

About Salzburg :   Known as the home of Mozart and the setting for the hit movie The Sound of Music, compact Salzburg has great Medieval roots that still shine brightly today.  Protected by a mighty castle in the middle of town, Salzburg was originally a Roman city that grew powerful through the Middle Ages thanks to the salt trade.  Salzburg stunning to visit on a few days’ stay in its own right, but because it is less than two hours from Munich it can also make for an excellent day trip.

During your day trip from Munich to Salzburg, you will be carried away by the music of Mozart and tunes from the Sound of Music as you stroll the cobblestone lanes.  While there seems to always be a festival going on, the vibe of the city is definitely driving by classic music, alpine culture, and gorgeous architecture.  Because of Salzburg’s wealth from the salt trade, most of the city was rebuilt in the 1500s in the Baroque style and preserved after they basically bought their way out of the 30 Years War.

There seems to be an impressive church on every corner, fountains everywhere you turn, and Salzburg has some of the best shopping in Central Europe. You can really see the Medieval roots of this compact pedestrian street by the signage that hangs above each shop.  In the Middle Ages, almost no one could read so instead of having signs with business names on them, the shops would hang an icon for their trade of craft.  Notice how the signs for the hat maker, locksmith, umbrella shop, and many more have kept this signage tradition alive.

One of the biggest surprises for most visitors seeking to find where the “Hills Are Alive” is how impressive Salzburg’s High Fortress is.  The massive castle ( started in 1077 ) is one of the best urban castles to visit in all of Europe and is our #1 favorite to visit in Austria.  From the castle, you can get a feel for Salzburg’s important trade position at the foot of the Alps.  With mountains on one side and the village pinned between the Salzach River on the other, you’ll also see how the Prince-Archbishops ruled Salzburg through Medieval Times.  At one point Salzburg was the 2nd largest church-state in Europe behind the Vatican.

We especially love visiting Salzburg for the traditional Austrian food and local beer.  Between the hometown Stiegl brewery and the Medieval Augustiner Monks Brewery, there are plenty of great drinks for any tourist.  If you plan ahead you can even get tickets for the evening Mozart Dinner Concert inside Saint Peter’s Keller which is the oldest Restaurant in Europe dating back to 803 before returning to Munich.

Top Things to do : Old Town Walking Tour , Sound of Music Movie Locations Tour .   Getting Here From Munich : Takes 90-120 minutes from Munich by train which is covered by the money-saving Bayern Pass using the Blue & Yellow Meridan trains although the pass cannot be used on weekdays before 9am.  If you are leaving from Munich’s airport you can reach Salzburg in 2-2.5 hours with an easy connection in Munich Ost Station instead of the Central Station.   Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 9 out of 10.  If you are able to swing staying overnight in Salzburg a visit bumps up to a 10 out of 10.

View Our Salzburg Section : ( HERE ).

3. Dachau Concentration Camp ( 21-38 Minutes ):

About Dachau Concentration Camp : Reachable in less than 30 minutes from central Munich, the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial is one of the most powerful day trips to take from Munich.  As the Nazis’ first forced labor camp, the Dachau Memorial is now a chilling reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.  Overall the site does a great job serving as an outstanding museum and memorial for life as it was in the camp and the hardships endured here.

During your day trip to Dachau from Munich, you will learn about the torture that took place here, the background stories of some of the prisoners, and the propaganda used to cover it all up.  The excellent exhibits are all detailed in English plus there are daily guided tours available in English every day.  The main buildings you will see including the former barracks, the ghostly crematorium, the supposedly never used gas chamber, and the famous Work Will Set You Free Gate.  The thing that will stick with you the most is a saying posted, in multiple languages, in the center courtyard stating ‘Never Again.’

Getting Here From Munich : It takes 21-38 minutes from Munich Station to reach the memorial including a transfer to Bus 726 at Dachau Station.  We have a full guide on How To Get To Dachau From Munich including tips on the route and how to save money using day passes.   Visiting Hours : Daily 9am-5pm. Cost : Free.  Tours : Paid tours in English are at 11am & 1pm ( plus 12:15pm on weekends in Summer ) and there are also audio guides available.  Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 9 out of 10.

View Our Dachau Section : HERE .

4. Rothenburg, Germany ( 2.5 Hours ):

About Rothenburg :  The quaint German village of Rothenburg seems frozen in time, Medieval times that is.  Known as the Imperial City, Rothenburg was once home to the King of Germany ( Conrad III – 1142 ) before becoming a trading powerhouse but eventually got stuck in the 1600s have as the local economy collapsed during the 30 Years War.  This downslide help preserved Rothenburg from modernization and today there probably isn’t a more authentic feeling Medieval village in Europe from top to bottom which makes it a great side trip from Munich.  Ideally, you will stay overnight in Rothenburg a few nights since it is over two hours from Munich, but you can still see a lot on a long day trip.

Rothenburg is packed full of Medieval city gates, half-timber homes, cobbled streets, splashes of color, secret passageways, amazing festivals, and postcard-perfect views including the famous Plönlein Corner.  The old city wall still stands circling the village while trying with all of its might to encapsulate Rothenburg’s magical feel.  You feel like you left the real world and stepped onto a movie set.  Having been the inspiration for many Disney movies ( plus Chitty Chitty Bang Bang ), in some ways Rothenburg really is a living film set.

Once you wrap your head around Rothenburg’s beauty, you’ll find there is actually a lot to do here as well.  We love touring the Imperial City Museum, the famous Medieval Criminal Museum, the Germann Christmas Museum, the entertaining 1 hour Night Watchman’s Tour in the evening, and walking on top of the old city wall.  Throw in an old Blacksmith shop, a lively market square, plus great family-owned pubs, and you’ll feel like you have traveled hundreds of years into the past in no time.

All of these elements together make Rothenburg the Medieval destination for you if you are looking for fun, authenticity, and some small-town flair.  A visit gets even more magical if you can stay overnight as you will be able to see the village totally free of other tourists in the early morning and again after dinner time.  If you are really lucky you can time your day from Munich to be during Rothenburg’s Imperial City Days in the Fall or the magical Christmas Market which has been happening each December since the 1400s.

Getting To Rothenburg By Train : Trains make this journey in each direction about every half hour from Munich with departures ranging from 4:30am until 10pm. The trip is very easy but will require 1-2 train transfers depending on your ticket.  Getting To Rothenburg By Car : It is very common to rent a car to drive to Rothenburg from Munich as it’s faster than the train ( especially from the airport ), but it also gives you the ability to check out other Romantic Road cities such as Dinkelsbuhl and Nordlingen along the way.  Tour groups also make the full-day round trip journey but don’t give you a ton of time in each village.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 8.5 out of 10; only negative is the total travel time, but with an overnight stay it is a 10 out of 10.

View Our Rothenburg Section :  HERE .

5. Berchtesgaden, Germany ( 2.5 Hours ):

About Berchtesgaden :   Berchtesgaden has been a retreat for kings, monks, and travelers since the early 1100s at it still retains much of its old-world charm.  Whether it is the Deer House ( Hirschenhaus ) on Marktplatz , the storybook Advent Christmas Town over the holidays, or a visit to a beer hall during Oktoberfest , you’ll fall in love with Berchtesgaden.  Sitting right next to Old Town is the  Berchtesgaden Salt Mine ( Salzbergwerk ) which is a tourist favorite and has been in operation since 1517.  No visit to the region would be complete without visiting a salt mine as it is how many of the towns like Berchtesgaden and Salzburg got rich starting in the 1100s.

Perched above Berchtesgaden is a pair of reminders of the atrocities from WII, the Nazi Documentation Center and Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest .  During WII, Hitler built the mighty Eagle’s Nest as his 2nd seat of power after being inspired by the area’s beauty.  Today mini fortress serves as a restaurant sitting high enough above the valley floor to give visitors a 120-mile view on a clear day!  Combined with the Documentation Center you will be able to learn a lot of history as well as check out some old WW2 bunkers and even take a high-speed elevator up the mountain.

Before leaving your alpine elevation, make sure to check out the views of Königssee from above at Jennerbahn Mountain .  The Mountain also has great skiing, but it is the lake below that interests us more. If you have time, a ride out onto Königssee can put your trip over the top.  You’ll not only cruse between tower peaks and through an echo chamber, but also past the is the triple-domed St. Bartholomä Chapel .  Either way you slice it, Berchtesgaden is one of the best-hidden gems in all of Germany.

Getting To Berchtesgaden From Munich : You can take the train directly to Berchtesgaden from Munich with a quick line switch in Freilassing. Berchtesgaden is best seen either on the way to or from Salzburg to which is connected by bus only 12 miles away. This will help you maximize your travels.

Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 8.5 out of 10. While small, the best sights in Berchtesgaden are a little spread out so we suggest seeing it either right before or after spending the night in nearby Salzburg so you aren’t cutting your time short in this amazing city.  From Salzburg, it is easily a 9 of 10 rating.

View Our Berchtesgaden Section : HERE .

6. Zugspitze Peak & Eibsee, Germany ( 2.5 Hours ):

About Zugspitze : At 9,718 feet ( 2,962 meters ), the Zugspitze Mountain Peak near Garmisch-Partenkirchen is literally the top of Germany!  As the tallest peak in Germany , the Zugspitze has the best Alpine views and downhill skiing you can find during a day trip from Munich.  It’s said that on a clear day you can see up to 155 miles ( 250 kilometers ) along the horizon.  This view spans some 400 mountain peaks in Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland).

Because the main peak sits on the border of Austria, you can be in two countries at once while on top of the mountain with one foot in Bavaria and the other in Tirol.  Aside from the stunning views, our favorite activity at Zugspitze is the Summer Snow Sledding .  From June through September you can sled down a gently sloped toboggan run at the peak which is free to use.

There is also another great mountain peak right next to Zugspitze called the Alpspitze.  This peak offers great opportunities for hiking as well as thrills from the AlpspiX viewing platform .  The daring platform is in the shape of an ‘X’ and hangs over the valley 3281 feet below.  We prefer to visit Zugspitze first then visit Alpspitze on our way back to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

One of the coolest things about visiting Zugspitze Mountain is that you have to transfer trains in nearby Garmisch-Partenkirchen which is a tourist hotspot.  This tiny village at the foot of the Alps is known for its rustic homes with murals painted on their facades, excellent woodworkers, and great souvenir shopping.  The village can feel a bit tacky, but it is cool t stroll through before you return to Munich from your day trip.

Getting Here From Munich : Train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen takes 8o minutes.  Once you get there walk to the neighboring train station ( Zugspitze Bahnhof ) and get on the local Cogwheel Train to your desired cable car lift.  The Cogwheel will take 40 minutes to Eibsee Station or 75 minutes to the end up at the Zugspitze Glacier.  From either stop, it is a 10-minute cable car ride up to the main observation deck.  We like to go up one way and back the other.  The cable car section from Eibsee to the main peak is a world record holder rising over 6381 feet (1,945 meters).

Keep in mind that the Classic Train is also an option from Garmisch, but it only goes to Grainau which is fine for visiting Alpspitze but for Zugspitze, you need to take the Cogwheel Train.  The cable car for the AlpspiX is at Alpspitzbahn and the cable car for Zugspitze is at Eibsee.  While Eibsee is the last main stop, hikers can ride the Cog up the Rifferlriss to get closer.   Video : HERE .   Website : HERE .

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich :  8 out of 10.

7. Nuremberg, Germany ( 90 Minutes ):

About Nuremberg :   Before heavy WW2 bombings for being a Nazi stronghold, Nuremberg ( Nürnberg ) was one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe.  Luckily enough of the city remained that Nuremberg has slowly rebuilt itself over the decades into a great tourist destination yet again.  We like to start off with the city’s biggest attraction, the Kaiserburg Imperial Castle which dates back to 1050 AD.

The Castle sits at the highest point of Nuremberg which created a natural defense and still provides great views of the town.  All the Holy Roman Emperors stayed at the Imperial Castle for a short period at least between 1050 and 1571.  The historic castle looks plainer than some of Germany’s other over-the-top castles which were built later in the Middle Ages, but we enjoy the old feel.  Today, one of the best youth hostels in Europe sits inside the Medieval castle’s former horse stables.

That same old-world feel carries into the city wall and watchtowers, plus the picture-perfect Craftsmen’s Courtyard.  Built into the city wall is our favorite buildings called the Wine Store ( Weinstadel ) .  The beautiful building overlooks the water and is connected to the town by Hangman’s Bridge .  The bridge and tower were constructed in the 1400s as a place for the Nuremberg executioner to live as the common people didn’t want someone of his profession living among them.  It was really a strange arrangement, but interesting.  You have to make sure to stroll down Weißbergergasse in Old Town and check out Saint Elisabeth Church which was once home to the Knights of Germany as well.  Not to be overlooked in Old Town is the food and especially the Original Nuremberg Rostbratwursts which have been made here since the 1300s.  The best way to wash down your wursts is with Nuremberg’s best beer on the City Brewery Beer Tour .  The 3-hour tour is only 25 Euros and is lead by a Medieval innkeeper who teaches you about the 700 years of beer in the city complete with tastings.

While these sights are the happy-go-lucky ones it is also important to know about Nuremberg’s Nazi years .  One of the most moving sights is in the former Nazi rally grounds where 100,000s would gather for rallies. The grounds were later used by the Nazis as a concentration camp for over 50,000 Socialists and now holds the Fascination and Terror Museum . There is also a monument marking the Nuremberg Trials, where Nazi leaders were put on trial for the horrors of WW2. When you are all done with doom and gloom Nuremberg has plenty more historic sights and mansions to tour on top of having one of the best Medieval Christmas Markets in Europe. If it is not over the Holiday season you can still get your Christmas on in the wonder Toy museum at Nuremberg has been famous for its toys since the middle ages

Getting Here From Munich : Direct train from Munich to Nuremberg takes 75-90 minutes.   Tourism Website : HERE .

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 8.5 out of 10.

8. Bamberg, Germany ( 2-2.5 Hours ):

About Bamberg :   Bamberg is known as Little Venice, and for good reason.  The Regnitz River literally runs directly through Bamberg and the Old Town Hall sits right in the middle of the flow.  As seen in the photo to the left, they actually built the Old Town Hall ( Alte Rathaus ) in the middle of the river and connected to town with a series of bridges.  The build is the most photographed spot in Bamberg, but it is the impressive murals painted on the sides of the Old Town Hall that we really like.  Most of the town hugs the riverbank making renting a rowboat a very popular thing to do.  A lot of the island-like city center was once a fisherman’s settlement in the Middle Ages and has been turned into a great pedestrian-only area today.

Getting beyond the buildings and sights, Bamberg is really a city known for its beer .  There are 9 breweries, 2 malting companies, 50 local beers, and tons of taverns just inside the city limits.  If you go out a couple of miles there are 90 more breweries in the small towns around Bamberg.  The most famous beer in Bamberg is Smoke Beer , which tastes like bacon.  Unlike most beers where the malt is dried industrially by hot air, the malt for the Smoke Beer is kiln-dried over an open fire to add flavor.  The BierSchmecker Beer Tour is awesome as you vouchers for drinks at your choice of 5 of the 9 breweries for only 20 euros, plus you keep your mug.  If you are deciding what time to go July hosts the International Magician and Street Performers’ Festival which really brings Old Town to life.  In August is our favorite event called the Sandkirchweih Fair .  During the Sandkerwa Festival, fishermen joust on the river standing on the end of their boats American Gladiator-style.

Getting Here From Munich : A direct train from Munich takes 2 hours ( 2.5 with a connection ) or from Nuremberg it is only 1 hour.  Tourism Website : HERE .

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 8 out of 10.

9. Herrenchiemsee New Palace & Lake ( 1 Hour 45 Minutes ):

About Herrenchiemsee New Palace : The Herrenchiemsee New Palace is a replica of Paris’ Versailles Palace and is another one of Mad King Ludwig’s extravagant properties to make our top day trips from Munich list.  This grand project was almost scrapped when King Ludwig’s plot of land at Linderhof Palace was too small, but lucky his family acquired a large island in the middle of Chiemsee Lake to build it on.  Although Ludwig died two before Herrenchiemsee was completed, his vision for this masterpiece lives on today.  While there are still plenty of tourists, the crowds here are much less than other major castles in Germany which makes it easy to enjoy.  If you have ever been to the real Versailles, then you will really love the uncrowded replica of the Great Hall of Mirrors and boulevard like French gardens.

Getting Here From Munich : 1-hour train to Prien a Chiemsee, then 30 minutes later the boat leaves from the pier which takes 15 minutes to get to the Palace. During the Summer a shuttle line takes you to the boat dock saving you a 1/2 mile walk, but there is a 30-minute gap from getting off of the train until the boat leaves. Click here for the boat timetable.  If you are looking to only visit the lake and beach instead of the palace, then you can get a train ticket to the village of Übersee on the southside of Chiemsee

Stopover on the way to Salzburg :  It is a great stop on the way to or from Salzburg from Munich but with the ferry ride and layover it adds 90 minutes to the total route to Salzburg in addition to the time doing the tour so you need to account for an extra 3-3.5 hours on your journey.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7.5 out of 10.  Website : HERE .

10. Linderhof Palace ( 2 Hours ):

About Linderhof Palace :   At the same time Mad King Ludwig was building his fairytale castle near Füssen, he had plans for many other expansive building projects as well.  On some family land near Oberammergausd, Ludwig created the design for a palace modeled on Paris’ Versailles plus another large complex in the style of a Byzantine Palace.  At the last second, he decided to fix up his dad’s old cabin on the property in a royal hunting lodge instead due to a lack of space.  The end result was an amazing hunting palace with a beautiful garden with an unreal series of fountain ponds.

As the tourist tend to flock to Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle in Füssen, the crowds at Linderhof are smaller, making it a very enjoyable place to walk around.  The area is also a great place to jump over to Ettal Abbey or down to Zugspitze Mountain.

Getting Here From Munich : Take the train to Oberammergau ( 1 Hour and 45 Minutes ) then take local Bus 9606 directly to Linderhof Palace ( 22 Minutes ).   Getting Here From Füssen : From Füssen, Bus 9622 connects all the way to Oberammergau where you can hop onto Bus 9606 for the Palace.   Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7 out of 10.   Website : HERE .

Honorable Mention Day Trips:

11. regensburg, germany ( 90 minutes ):.

About Regensburg : Locals call it “Germany’s medieval wonder”.  Pretty small but the Cathedral of St Peter, the Stone Bridge, the Bridge Tower, and the ‘Salt Barn’ is cool.  Famous for torture. Locals call it “Germany’s Medieval wonder”.  It was settled by the Celts in the Stone Age and around AD 90, the Romans built a fort there.  In 179, a new Roman fort Castra Regina and it served as the Roman’s most Northern fort on the Danube.  The city became the capital of Bavaria  from 530-1180AD.  The Duke of Bavaria, Heinrich II of Babenberg, was ousted as ruler in 1156, and quickly went on to lay the groundwork for a new city built over another former Roman fort known today as Vienna which he modeled after his beloved Regensburg.  When the Wittelsbachs were appointed the new rulers of Bavaria in 1180, they decided to move the capital to Munich.

City Website :  ( here ).   Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7 out of 10.

12. Würzburg, Germany ( 2 Hours & 15 Minutes ):

About Würzburg : Northwest of Munich a long way, but really cool.  Prince-bishops’ Residenz Palace and Marienberg Citadel are the main highlights.  The UNESCO World Heritage Site the Residence , the medieval fortress Marienberg, the historic town hall building the Romanesque cathedral “St. Kilian”, from the old bridge “Alte Mainbrücke”, you will enjoy fantastic views of the fortress “Marienberg,” the pilgrimage church “Käppele” and the famous vineyards.  The nearby town of Volkach has the Historic Schwane wine cellars. http://www.schwane.de http://www.wuerzburg.de/

Getting Here : The train from Munich takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.  Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7 out of 10; if you are going to go this far toward Frankfurt, you might as well see Frankfurt instead.

13. Landsberg am Lech, Germany ( 50 Minutes ):

About Landsberg am Lech : This small medieval city is a great getaway if you want to experience an authentic Bavarian feel without the flocks of tourists.  Large portions of the Medieval city walls and gates are still intact plus most of the city’s buildings still have colorful, traditional facades.  We especially love to visit the riverside Landsberg am Lech as a day trip from Munich because it is littered with many beautiful Medieval towers  which feel like they could be Rapunzel’s fairytale house.

Among the towers is the Schmalzturm Tower, also called Beautiful Tower, which lies in the Witches Quarter ( Hexenviertel ) was named for its beautiful tiled roof and is the cities oldest tower built in 1260.  The romantic Mother’s Tower ( Mutterturm) at the Herkomer Museum on the West side of the river is the newest built in 1888.  This is one of the towers you can actually go inside.  There is also the beautiful Bayertor Tower on the Eastern city wall, and the Northern wall’s gate has Sandauer Tor and the tall Dachlturm tower overlooking the village.

The village is maybe most famous for being where Adolf Hitler was imprisoned for 9 months in 1924 following his failed Beer Hall Pusch in Munich.  It was in this jail where he wrote/dictated the first half of his book Mein Kampf ( finished in Berchtesgaden ) which later served as a foundation for the Nazi Party.  Like many cities in Germany, Landsberg am Lech ended up being home to a large concentration camp during World War II.  Lucky today the horrors of the past was well behind Landsberg am Lech and you can explore the various towers as a day trip from Munich pretending like you are looking for Rapunzel.

Getting Here : Train from Munich takes 50 minutes and often requires a train transfer in Kaufering.  Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 6.5 out of 10.

14. Esslingen, Germany ( 2 Hours and 15 Minutes ):

About Esslingen : At just 9 miles ( 15km ) away from Stuttgart, Esslingen is one of the little gems of Germany that most tourists don’t even know about.  This little village is so untouched by the hoards of tourists that we almost left it off this top day trips from Munich list just so we could keep it all to ourselves.

First mentioned in 777, this little village gained market rights in 866 which was very early compared to most German cities.  After becoming a Free Imperial City in 1229 Esslingen flourished thanks to its Neckar River toll bridge and position on numerous trade routes.  The trade industry is highlighted by Esslinged Castle which is a section of the fortified wall that encircles a large sloped grape vineyard on the edge of town.  Started in the 1300s, the fact that they went to such great lengths to protect sections of crops shows how important they were.  Today this “castle” offers a great chance to walk along a covered Medieval town wall and offers the best views in Esslingen.

The most iconic attraction in Esslingen is the Gothic Town Hall which dates back to the 1420s.  Located on the main square, the salmon-colored facade of the Town Hall is highlighted by an astronomical clock from 1592.  Esslingen is also jammed packed with over 200 half-timber homes and many churches including one with foundations dating to the 800s which you can tour the excavations of.  Walking along the riverfront with the Medieval half-timber houses to us feels like visiting Bamberg, Germany which is also on our best day trips from Munich list.

Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 6.5 out of 10.

15. Innsbruck, Austria ( 2 Hours ):

About Innsbruck : Known as the city of the Golden Roof, and the Tirolean capital, Innsbruck is the only major city located in the European Alps.  Innsbruck is best known for its winter sports and skiing as it hosted the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games.  There are mainly other year-round attractions such as Ambras Castle, great shopping, a number of beautiful lakes, and the world’s largest crystal at Swarovski’s Crystal Factory.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 6 out of 10; if you are into downhill skiing then it is a 10 out of 10 in the Winter.

16. Wendelstein Mountain ( 1.5-2 Hours ):

About Wendelstein Peak : The Wendelstein is 1,838-meters high is the easiest accessible Alpine peak from Munich.  The summit can be easily accessed either with the cable car from Osterhofen or the rack railway from Brannenburg.  Overall we still prefer to visit either Zugspitze near Garmisch-Partenkirchen or Jennar Peak near Berchtesgaden as a day trip from Munich since both have more to do around them, but Wendelstein still has some great views.

About 100 meters below the summit is the Berggasthof Inn with a large terrace serving hot and cold meals.  On the summit, there is a viewing platform offering an excellent view of the northern Alps and of Bavaria, an observatory, a weather station, and a broadcast relay station.  Easy hiking trails lead from the valley up to the summit of Wendelstein Mountain.  In Winter it is possible to ski on the slopes of Mount Edelstein.

Getting Here : 80 min train ride to Osterhofen-Bayrischzell and take a brief walk to the Cable Car which climbs almost 1,000 feet in 7 minutes -or- you could instead take a 60-minute train Brannenburg from which it’s a 30-minute scenic walk to the Cog Railway which takes you directly to the summit within 30 minutes on a very unique, fun, and steep ride.   Hours :  9am-5pm in Summer, 10am-4pm in Winter.   Brochure :   HERE .   360 Degree Photo :   HERE .   Tip : You can get an upgraded Bayern Pass with a combo that includes round-trip train to/from Munich and the cable car.

17. Ulm, Germany ( 90 Minutes ):

About Ulm : In Medieval times, Ulm was a jewel of a village and although 80% of the town was ruined in WW2, it was once again become an enjoyable place to visit.  While much of Ulm has been rebuilt, there are still a large number of surviving half-timber homes scattered around the city.  Some of the homes date back to the 1400s and they are denser in the Fisherman’s Quarter which is very picturesque.  We can only imagine how amazing Ulm was in Medieval times when it would have more closely resembled villages like Colmar, France.

As you walk around Ulm you will also see numerous sections of Medieval wall and preserved towers that once protected the city.  From the same era, the Ulm Cathedral or Minster is the main attraction in the town today.  Started in 1377, the Ulm Minster still was still the 5th tallest building in the world in the year 1900s and still has the tallest true steeple out of any church.  The steeple is so large that from the ground it almost looks wider than the height of the church’s nave.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 5 out of 10.  Expect your visit to mainly be a visit to the cathedral and a stroll through the Fisherman’s Quarter.

18. Herrsching & Lake Ammer ( 50 Minutes ):

About Herrsching : Sitting on the shores of Lake Ammer, Herrsching is the best place to visit a beach as a day trip from Munich.  Even if you aren’t looking to swim or lounge on the beach, Herrsching can still be a very relaxing place to visit and from Munich, it only takes 50 minutes to get here.  You can have a wonderful time simply strolling the paved waterfront trail, having lunch by the lake, and visiting the famous Little Castle ( Kurparkschlössl ).  Built in 1888 by the artist Ludwig Scheuermann, the red and white Little Castle was built in the style of Italian noble homes.  Today the mansion is owned by the city and part of a park which you are free to visit.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 5.5 out of 10.  Definitely the top of the list if you are looking for a beach near Munich although Chiemsee is also wonderful.

19. Landshut, Germany ( 45 Minutes ):

About Landshut : Landshut is an ideal Bavarian day trip from Munich.  The highlights of Landshut are its Trausnitz Castle ( website )and multicolored home facades.  The main reason it makes this list is that every 4 years it is home to the 3-week-long Royal Wedding Festival ( website , Landshuter Hochzeit ) which in 2009 drew 600,000 visitors.  The festival is to celebrate a royal wedding between Bavaria and Poland in 1475 and serves as a living history as most visitors dress in Medieval Dress and the town’s people reenact the original wedding.  Home to the largest European Middle Ages festival which celebrates the marriage of Duke George and Hedwig, the daughter of the king of Poland each summer with the next one being 2021.

Getting Here : The train from Munich takes 45 minutes and is direct.   Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 4 out of 10; but during the Wedding Festival every 4 years it is a 10 out of 10.

Longer Side Trips From Munich:

Here are a couple great places not too far from Munich that may be worth a night or two stay over.

Accessible In 3-5 Hours :  Hallstatt ( Austria ); Vienna ( Austria ); Prague ( Czech Republic ); Berlin ( Germany ); Frankfurt ( Germany ); Heidelberg ( Germany ). Accessible By Night Train : Budapest ( Hungary ); Rome ( Italy ); Florence ( Italy ); Amsterdam ( Netherlands ); Paris ( France ).

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Disclaimer: Information on this page and in our walking tours were deemed accurate when published, however, details such as opening hours, rates, transportation, visa requirements, and safety can change without notice. Please check with any destinations directly before traveling.

Munich's environs: Tips for the cold season

Eight great winter excursions.

Even in winter, the area around Munich offers many attractive excursion destinations that can be reached after a short journey by car or train. From Schloss Neuschwanstein (Neuschwanstein Castle) to the icy Prachtnachklamm (gorge): We have compiled eight excursion destinations that are particularly appealing during the cold season.

Winter excursions at a glance

- Schloss Neuschwanstein - Partnachklamm - Herrenchiemsee - Tegernsee - Therme Erding - Zugspitze - Königssee - Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Neuschwanstein Castle: A fairy-tale setting just like in Disney World

King Ludwig II's Schloss Neuschwanstein ( Neuschwanstein Castle ) is not called the "fairy-tale castle" for nothing – in fact, it served as the inspiration for Disney films such as "Cinderella" and "Sleeping Beauty". By the way, the small Olympic Hall will host an exciting exhibition in 2023 to mark Disney's 100th anniversary . The former retreat of the Bavarian fairy-tale king, who unfortunately only lived there for a few months, is now open all year round. And the castle in the Allgäu region looks particularly romantic when it is covered in snow. Besides, the castle is usually less frequented in winter – around 1.5 million people visit it throughout the year.

Book a day trip to Neuschwanstein now!

How to get there : From Munich, you can reach Schloss Neuschwanstein by car in just under two hours. The last opportunity to park your car is at the village of Hohenschwangau. If you travel by train, get on bus 78 in Füssen, which will take you all the way to the castle. From Munich main station, the journey takes a total of two and a half hours.

www.neuschwanstein.de

Partnachklamm (gorge): Magical world of ice near Garmisch

In winter, only selected gorges around Munich are open – fortunately, the Partnachklamm is one of them. Dressed in warm clothing, you can experience a true natural spectacle here. Since the gorge near Garmisch hardly receives any sunlight, metre-high icicles hang from the rock. From October to May, the Partnachklamm gorge is open to visitors between 8 am and 6 pm – here, you can experience a real world of ice! However, it is always advisable to take a look at the website and be aware of any unplanned closure. Also remember to wear sturdy, warm shoes and bring hiking poles!

How to get there : It takes about one and a half hours by car from Munich to Partnachklamm. There is a large car park at the ski stadium, just before you leave Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Buses 1 and 2, which depart from the Garmisch-Partenkirchen railway station, also stop here. From the ski station, it is a 25-minute walk to the gorge.

www.partnachklamm.de

Herrenchiemsee (lake): Discover the "Bavarian Versailles"

A visit to Chiemsee (lake) is not only worthwhile in summer – especially Schloss Herrenchiemsee (Herrenchiemsee Palace) offers an even more intense experience in winter. The palace was commissioned by King Ludwig II on the model of Versailles. Today, the Grand Staircase, the State Bedroom and the Great Hall of Mirrors are highlights that are well worth a visit! If you still have time and fancy more explorations after the Herreninsel (island), take a 10-minute boat ride to Fraueninsel (island) – here, you can not only enjoy an enchanting Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market), but also the pilgrimage site Kloster Frauenwörth, the oldest nunnery in Germany.

How to get there : It takes between one and one and a half hours to drive from Munich to Prien am Chiemsee. Follow the signs to "Chiemsee / Königsschloss”, where you will find a car park. Then take the boat across to Herreninsel. Rail travellers reach "Prien am Chiemsee" in about an hour and walk about 20 minutes from there to the boat landing.

www.herrenchiemsee.de

Tegernsee (lake): Skiing, tobogganing and sauna fun

Lake Tegernsee is one of the most popular destinations in the Munich area at any time of year. In winter, however, it is particularly beautiful – and this is not only due to the picturesque Bavarian landscape between the mountains and the ice-blue lake. The region also offers one of the largest connected ski areas in the Alpine foothills, as well as one of the longest natural toboggan runs in Germany on the Wallberg (mountain). Cross-country skiing is also particularly popular at Lake Tegernsee, and curling has a long tradition. Those who prefer to stay indoors can head to the lakeside sauna , the iodine-sulphur baths in Bad Wiessee or stop off at one of the Bavarian inns.

How to get there : The journey from Munich to Tegernsee takes about an hour, both by car and by train. Or you can travel nonstop with the Bavarian Regiobahn (train)!

www.tegernsee.com

Therme Erding (thermal spa): The largest thermal spa in the world

With a total area of 430,000 square metres, Therme Erding is in fact the largest thermal spa in the world – and it's only about 30 kilometres from Munich! There is so much to discover here that you will probably want to spend not just one day, but a whole weekend in the comfort of the on-site hotel. In addition to a slide park with 27 water slides and a huge swimming pool area, Therme Erding also has a sauna landscape. You can try out 35 saunas and steam baths or rent your own relaxation area.

How to get there : The journey from Munich to Therme Erding takes between 30 and 45 minutes by car. There are plenty of parking spaces on site. If you travel by public transport, take the S2 Erding (suburban train) to the "Altenerding" stop – from there you can either take the bus or walk 800 metres.

www.therme-erding.de

Zugspitze (mountain): Hike, toboggan and enjoy

There are three mountain railways leading up to Germany's highest mountain these days, two of which are in Bavaria – the historic cogwheel railway and the modern "Seilbahn Zugspitze” (cable car). In winter, several ski lifts run up to the Zugspitzplatt (plateau). If you don't want to ski, you can toboggan on the plateau (also in summer), visit the glacier restaurant or go for a walk. On a clear day, you can enjoy a spectacular view of mountain peaks of Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Italy. If you like, you can also explore Eibsee (lake), which you can admire in all its glory from up here!

How to get there : Travellers by train get off at Garmisch-Partenkirchen – from the station, the cogwheel railway takes you across the Eibsee to the Zugspitzplatt. By car, it is best to drive to the cable car right at the Eibsee (lake), which leads up to the Zugspitze . There are plenty of parking spaces at the cable car station. The journey takes about two hours by train and one hour and 15 minutes by car.

www.zugspitze.de

Königssee (lake): Between the Malerwinkl view point and the Ice Chapel

This is where Bavaria reveals its most beautiful side – all year round: A view of Lake Königssee from Malerwinkl viewpoint, a boat ride to Sankt Bartholomä or a stroll along the water edge will make you understand why the Berchtesgadener Land is such a popular destination. In winter, you can go cross-country skiing, ski touring , snowshoeing or tobogganing in the area around Königssee. If you prefer to stay on site, you can, for example, take a winter hike to the impressive Eiskapelle (Ice Chapel): From Sankt Bartholomä, the path leads around six kilometres to the all-year ice field.

How to get there : It takes about two hours by car from Munich to Schönau am Königssee, by train between two and three hours – depending on the connection. From Schönau, you can walk to Königssee and the Jennerbahn (cable car), and if you want to get to the other side of the lake, you can take the boat. It runs all year round, except in icy conditions!

www.berchtesgaden.de

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A Christmas town straight out of a storybook

If you are looking for a picture-perfect Christmas town, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the place to be! The Franconian town is not only home to the German Christmas Museum and Christmas decoration manufacturer Käthe Wohlfahrt, but also to the world-famous Christmas market once a year. And the location between medieval city walls and cute half-timbered houses rounds off the experience. No wonder the medieval old town becomes a popular destination as soon as the first snow falls.

Book a day trip to Rothenburg now!

How to get there : Both by car and by train, the journey from Munich to Rothenburg ob der Tauber takes about three hours. You can also stay overnight there and add a stopover in Nuremberg.

www.rothenburg.de

Text: Anja Schauberger; Photos: erlebe.bayern / Tobias Gerber, Rothenburg Tourismus Service, erlebe.bayern / Bernhard Huber, Der Tegernsee/Dietmar Denger, Bayerische Zugspitzbahn Bergbahn AG / Herbke

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Discover Munich in a relaxed and uncomplicated way: discounts for the diverse range of art, culture and leisure activities with our guest cards.

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Ultimate List of Day Trips from Munich

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, I might make a little extra spending money, at no extra cost to you. As always, all opinions are my own and these products/services have been found useful during our travels and come highly recommended to you from yours truly!

Whether you live in or around Munich , or are visiting somewhere near Munich, there are PLENTY of places to go if you’re looking to take advantage of a beautiful day! These are the best day trips from Munich all year round! 

If you don’t mind getting up and leaving your house around 6am, driving no more than 3-3 1/2 hours (one way), you CAN manage a FULL day in any of the following locations. I know, because I’m crazy enough to have managed many of these in a single hit and run, wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am kinda day trip! Especially during the summer months when the weather is great and the nights are long.

Just in case you’re interested, PIN IT FOR LATER!!

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Quite personally, I find that many Germans don’t actually travel much around their home country, let alone leave their hometown that often. Ok so I travel a bit obsessively, but why wouldn’t you want to get outta your 20 mile radius and explore more!?! And ok…many of these could be extended into a long weekend trip, but when you’re itching to get out, 3 hours is nothing! Plus, there are so many European cities near Munich that I just had to get out to see!

People always think I’m crazy for driving somewhere 3+ hours and now make it a weekend trip, but for me I grew up in California where driving 3 hours and you’re still in the same town because you’re sitting in traffic! Driving 3 hours in Europe and you’re in another state or another country! There are seriously a ton of places to visit outside of Munich, so get going! Of course, day trips from Munich by car are always easier, but many of these are not impossible to visit by train or bus. However, the more the remote the town, the more likely you’ll need a car for these day excursions from Munich!

Nonetheless, these are some of the best things to do in southern Germany as well as a few day trips into Austria and the Czech Republic! All of these top attractions are easily doable! I promise!

Bavaria, Germany

1. schloss nymphenburg.

Located on the outskirts of Munich, this beautiful palace is definitely an easy day trip in Munich for visitors who love stunning stucco artwork, beautiful architecture and lush gardens with hidden treasures! It’s first on the list because most people either forget about it or overlook it, but it makes a great day trip in your own backyard and is one of the most beautiful places in Munich!  ( More on Schloss Nymphenburg here )

2. Chiemsee & Schloss Herrnchiemsee

Time: 59 min

Another one of mad King Ludwig II’s castles that he built, but never finished. Schloss Herrnchiemsee is located on the Herreninsel (island) on Lake Chiemsee and was built as a replica to France’s Palace of Versailles in honor of the ‘Sun King’ Louis XIV. Although it is a much smaller scale, the Hall of Mirrors is definitely worth a visit as well as the stunning gardens. Spending a day on a lake is a great way to escape from the city!  ( More on Chiemsee here )

3. Ammersee

Time: 50 min

Just 26 miles southwest of Munich and with the S-Bahn, the lake is easily reachable and takes roughly 50 min. Ammersee is Germany’s 6th largest lake which developed as a result of ice age glaciers melting. In the lake town of Herrching, you can find the Little Castle ( Kurparkschlössl ), built in 1888 by the artist Ludwig Scheuermann along the promenade. To get here take the Munich S-bahn S8. 

4. Dachau Concentration Camp

Time: 28 min

The town of Dachau will unfortunately always be linked to one of the worst concentration camps in Germany. If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Munich, visiting Dachau Concentration Camp is always a good choice. Dachau was the first concentration camp to be built in Germany and soon more would follow the example of Dachau. It was built in 1933 and was supposed to be a forced labor camp for “political prisoners” but over the next 12 years, 200,000 people would be imprisoned here and 40,000 would be methodically murdered here and is worth a visit as those who don’t understand history are bound to repeat it. ( More on Dachau here )

5. Tegernsee

Time: 48 min

Located in one of Southern Bavaria’s most stunning regions, surrounded by mountain peaks is Lake Tegernsee which is a relaxing day trip from Munich to get out of the concrete jungle! Scattered around the lake are five small villages hugging the shoreline, easily reachable with trips across the lake by boat. Great location for a slower pace with a touch of sophistication. ( More on Tegernsee here )

6. Berchtesgaden

Time: 1 hr 46

Berchtesgaden is hailed as one of the most beautiful regions, not just in Germany but in all of Europe. Surrounded by the Berchtesgaden Alps, it’s worth a day trip to this region just to drive around and admire the views, get out and do a bit of hiking or simply enjoy the little village. Quite personally, I would even turn this day trip into a long weekend trip as there is a lot to do and the region is absolutely picturesque!   ( More on Berchtesgaden here )

7. Kehlsteinhaus (Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest)

Time: 2 hr 32

If you’re looking for a historic day trip from Munich or perhaps a hiking day trip from Munich, then heading to Berchtesgaden is the place for you! Built for and gifted to Hitler for his 50th birthday, it is one of the few locations that were not destroyed after the war to prevent Neo-Nazi gatherings. Instead, this beautiful house was saved as a feat of architecture for its era and was reinvented as a restaurant with breathtaking views of the Berchtesgaden National Park. ( More on Kehlsteinhaus here )

8. Königssee

If you’re looking for the most beautiful lake to visit from Munich, then heading to one of Bavaria’s most unspoiled, fjord-like lakes, it is a must for those who truly appreciate the beauty of nature. Enjoy a historic boat ride across the lake before reaching St. Bartholomews Church and even a bit further, the majestic Obersee. While you’re here, try to make time to visit Kehlsteinhaus or take a ride on the Jennerbahn for a view over Königssee. Day trips to the Bavarian Alps is always a good idea!  ( More on Königssee here )

9. Ramsau an der Ache

Time: 2 hr 23

If you’re already going to be in the Berchtesgaden region, then I highly suggest driving just a bit more to find this enchanting parish church in the small village of Ramsau, with a jaw-dropping backdrop of the Bavarian Alps. This is a picture perfect photo opportunity day trip from Munich if you’re an avid photographer!  ( More on Ramsau here )

10. Mittenwald

Time: 1 hr 24

Not only is the small little town of Mittenwald adorable, but there lies a gorge that is said to be inhabited by a spirit and his goblins. If you’re looking for an easy hike near Munich with beautiful crystal blue waters, this little pathway known as the Leutasch Gorge which clings to the side of the mountain is fun for the the entire family! It’s definitely a family-friendly hike not far from Munich! Day trips to the Bavarian Alps is always a must!  ( More on Mittenwald here )

11. Zugspitze

Time: 1 hr 39

Germany’s tallest peak sits at 2,962m high and offers endless views as far as the eye can see. This day trip is perfect year round for those who are interested in skiing, hiking or sightseeing or even drinking at Germany’s highest beer garden! Quite personally, I think visiting the Bavarian Alps is one of the best day trips from Munich in winter! While here, consider exploring the town of Garmish-Partenkirchen where the Olympics were once held! ( More on Zugspitze here )

Time: 1 hr 37

The last and final stop on the Romantic Road and is definitely worth visiting. Perched high on a rock, above the town is the palace of the Augsburg prince-bishops which began construction in 1291. ( More on Füssen here )

13. Schloss Neuschwanstein & Schloss Hohenschwangau

Time: 1 hr 45

If you’re in Bavaria, then you CAN NOT leave without visiting THE most fairytale-like, romantic castle that all hopeless romantics are drawn to create their own fairytale story. This is quite possibly THE most popular day trip from Munich and the epitome of ultimate day trips from Munich! Built by the mad King Ludwig II of Bavaria, it was never completed after his untimely death. Since its creation, it has inspired even people like Walt Disney! And just a hop, skip and a jump across the road is Schloss Hohenschwangau where Ludwig spent some of his childhood, and where he stayed while he built his masterpiece. (More on Schloss Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau here)

14. Wieskirche

Time: 1 hr 23

One of the loveliest art day trips from Munich! If you’re an art lover and an appreciate a stunning piece of work, then the inside is for you! Not directly on the Romantic Road, it is located in the foothills of the Alps and it’s definitely worth a visit on your way to/from Schloss Neuschwanstein! This pilgrimage church is an oval rococo church is a miraculous masterpiece of Bavarian Rococo and is probably the finest in the world! ( More on Wieskirche here )

15. Schloss Linderhof

Time: 1 hr 13

Another popular day trip from Munich is yet another castle! You can never have enough castles and of the three castles that mad King Ludwig II of Bavaria built, only Schloss Linderhof was completed before his untimely death. The King chose to live here in part because of its secluded location, as well as because of the splendor of the castle. One of the most popular attractions here is the Venus Grotto which was designed after stories from Richard Wagner. ( More on Schloss Linderhof here )

16. Kloster Ettal  (Ettal Abbey)

Time: 1 hr 2

The village of Ettal has a beautiful Benedictine monastery home to about 50 monks which was founded by Emperor Ludwig IV of Bavaria in 1330. The inside is stunningly designed in Rococo stucco work with a massive dome with pale yellow frescoes. The monastery also produces its own fruit liqueurs, flavored brandies and beer! ( More on Ettal here )

17. Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm)

If you’re looking for an easy and relaxing hike, consider heading down to Garmish-Partenkirchen and immerse yourself in nature. Located near the Olympic Skiing Stadium used during the 1936 Olympics, hiking Partnachklamm is a hike the whole family can enjoy! Perhaps not for those who struggle with tight spaces, Partnach Gorge is a sliver of walkway carved out of the side of the mountain, just feet above beautiful blue water. ( More on Hiking Partnach Gorge here )

Time: 1 hr 21

18. Walchensee

Time: 1 hr 33

If you’re looking for the prettiest lake in Bavaria to visit on a glorious summer day, perhaps to do a bit of windsurfing, hiking or soaking up the sun, then you need to head to Walchensee, the larger and higher of two sister lakes. Daytrippers from Munich and other surrounding areas love to come here not just to escape the city, but to enjoy the Tiffany turquoise water backed by rugged peaks in every which direction! ( More on Walchensee here )

Time: 1 hr 47

Lindau is the one town Bavaria can pride itself on for being on Lake Constance (Bodensee). The borders of Germany, Austria and Switzerland meet. The most popular attraction here is the Flower Island of Mainau, famous for its beautiful gardens. I would personally turn Lake Constance into the perfect weekend trip from Munich and spend the weekend exploring the towns around the lake, even going into Austria and Switzerland!

20. Kloster Andechs (Abbey)

Time: 44 min

Located in the town of is the pilgrimage site of Andechs Abbey, perched upon the 700-m Holy Mountain of Andechs. If you’re looking for a pretty cool place to drink beer as part of your day trip, then Kloster Andechs is worth a visit here simply for the views from the tower of Ammersee as well as the excellent beer the monks brew.

21. Oberammergau

Time: 1 hr 8

Home to the Passion Play which is only performed every 10 years, the town itself is still worth visiting for all of the fabulous and colorful folk art on the facades of the buildings. Here, you’ll run into quite a few tourists, but if you’re looking for a charming little day trip from Munich, this would be it!

22. Burghausen

Another easy excursion from Munich is Burghausen, close to the Austrian border. Burghausen Castle is Europe’s longest castle, stretching 1,100m (1,200 yards) along the river Salzach and is definitely off of the typical tourists’ travel itinerary!

23. Landsberg am Lech

Time: 51 min

Most tourists seem to skip over Landsberg am Lech as it lies between Augsburg and Füssen, therefore, the town isn’t overcrowded with tourists looking for that picturesque ambiance that Rothenburg can offer. But that doesn’t mean the town isn’t worth looking at, because it definitely is! ( More on Landsberg am Lech here )

24. Augsburg

If you’re looking for a city that is off-the-beaten track from Munich, then consider Augsburg! The third largest town in Bavaria, was one of the richest towns until the Thirty Years’ War ended it prosperity. Nonetheless, the town has a stunning city hall and thoroughfare lined with significant buildings, shops and restaurants. ( More on Augsburg here )

25. Schloss Schleissheim

Time: 21 min

The town of Schleissheim is home to a Baroque palace, great for an easy day trip from Munich. The palace is actually comprised of three individual palaces in a grand baroque park in the village of Oberschleißheim, a suburb of Munich and was once the summer residence of the Bavarian rulers from the House of Wittelsbach (King Ludwig’s family).

Time: 1 hr 56

Passau’s Old City Center is surround by three rivers that converge into one large river. There’s the Donau (Danube), Inn and Ilz rivers. Therefore, Passau is also known as “The City of Three Rivers “. Passau is also a very popular tourist destination for those traveling by boat down the Danube River. Passau is definitely one of the most charming towns to visit from Munich!  ( More on Passau here )

Time: 1 hr 26

Ulm’s Minster is the absolute focal point of the city and is also known as being the world’s tallest church standing at a whopping 162 meters high! Tourists who aren’t afraid of heights can climb the steep steps to the top for a fantastic view over the city! ( More on Ulm here )

28. Kloster Wiblingen Library

Time: 1 hr 28

The Abbey was once a former Benedictine Monastery that was later used as barracks and now houses several departments of the medical faculty from the University of Ulm and is home to one of Europe’s most stunning libraries. The library is designed in the whimsical Rococo style of pale pinks and blues. ( More on Wiblingen Library here )

29. Regensburg

Time: 1 hr 15

If you’re looking for one of the most off-the-radar day trips from Munich, then visiting Regensburg is a must! The entire city of Regensburg is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site with 1,500 historic buildings in the city center as well as Stadtamhof. The cathedral is one of the only French Gothic style cathedrals east of the Rhine. The historical Stone Bridge was considered the 8th wonder of the world when it was completed in 1146. ( More on Regensburg here )

30. Kloster Weltenburg (Weltenburg Abbey)

Time: (To Kelheim) 1 hr 11

Just below the Befreiungshalle in the small village of Kelheim, you can find a small parking lot next to the DeutschePost from where the ships pick up to take you downstream to the beautiful Kloster (Abbey) that is not only famous for its church designed by the Asam Brothers but for the fantastic beer the monks brew here. You could drive, but why not go by boat? ( More on Weltenburg Abbey here )

31. Kuchlbauer Brewery & Hundertwasserturm in Abensberg

Time: 1 hr 1

Do you like day trips that include drinking a plethora of good beer and art? Just a 30 minute drive from Regensburg is the small Bavarian town of Abensberg and here you will find a brewery famous for their Weissbier (Wheat beer) as well as a futuristic tower designed and created by the Austrian artist Friedrich Hundertwasser . ( More on Abensberg here )

32. Nördlingen

Time: 1 hr 32

Located in the Donau-Ries district, Nördlingen is the third of three medieval walled towns on the Romantic Road, it’s has by far one of the most interesting origins. The town is surprisingly built entirely inside of a massive crater , that was created some 14 million years ago when a meteorite struck the Earth! So, that makes it all the more worth visiting! It wasn’t until 1960 that two American scientists discovered that the town was in fact built inside of a crater! Today, it’s called the Nördlinger-Ries, or the Ries Crater. ( More on Nördlingen here )

33. Dinkelsbühl

Time: 1 hr 54

The second medieval walled town of three along the Romantic Road, Dinkelsbühl is located in Central Franconia and is definitely worth a visit. Luckily, the entire town escaped the Second World War completely unscathed, which means that it remains just as beautiful today as it did in the Medieval Ages. Although, the town claims it is “the most beautiful town in Germany” . ( More on Dinkelsbühl here )

34. Nuremberg

The second largest city in Bavaria, this town is definitely one of the absolute best day trips from Munich. Partially surrounded by its medieval walls, the town has a dark connection to the Nazi era, and has tons of interesting things to do for anyone interested in WWII history. If not, there’s a beautiful castle perched upon the hill overlooking the town. ( More on Nuremberg here )

35. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Time: 2 hr 14

An easy day trip from Munich is without a doubt Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a small town that packs a big punch of endless historical, colorful, medieval half-timbered houses. Considered one of the most picturesque towns in Germany along the Romantic Road, so this is one town you DO NOT want to miss as it is the epitome of fairy tale towns from Munich!  ( More on Rothenburg ob der Tauber here )

36. Würzburg

Time: 2 hr 39

Würzburg is considered to be the gateway to the Romantic Road which leads to Füssen with some of the most amazing German towns and is definitely a wine-lovers paradise! The town itself is popular for having many wine festivals between spring and summer. And it’s definitely worth walking up to the Marienberg Fortress which is perched above the city, for a great view. If you’re looking for a drinking day trip from Munich with lots of wine, then consider Würzburg!  ( More on Würzburg here)

37. Bamberg

Time: 2 hr 11

Bamberg is a town of historical importance and is situated over seven hills! The most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Altes Rathaus (Old City Hall) which is located in the middle of a bridge, and of course the unique taste of Smoked Beer makes for one of the top day trips from Munich! ( More on Bamberg here )

38. Bayreuth

Time: 2 hr 10

If you’re looking for a unique place to visit not far from Munich, then consider a day trip to Bayreuth. The perfect day trip for lovers of music as the town is associated with the composer Richard Wagner and has one of the most stunning Baroque Opera houses in Europe. The Old Hermitage Palace (Eremitage) was built in the French fashion as a retreat and is definitely worth visiting. ( More on Bayreuth here )

Baden-Württemburg

39. blaubeuren and it’s blautopf.

Time: 1 hr 40

Probably one of Germany’s best kept secrets lies in the small little half-timbered town of Blaubeuren. In a corner of the town, you’ll find the most magical place of any fairytale! Sitting next to the whimsical crystal blue waters is the most adorable little house with a water wheel. ( More on Blaubeuren here )

40. Schloss Lichtenstein

Time: 2 hr 16

This beautiful castle is considered to be a Gothic Revival Castle in Baden-Württemburg which was built to replace an older version of the castle. Today, it is one of the most fairy-tale like castles that pays homage to the Middle Ages and is commonly referred to an Schloss Neuschwanstein’s “Little Brother”. ( More on Schloss Lichtenstein here )

41. Stuttgart

Time: 2 hr 35

The capital of Baden-Württemberg and home to Mercedes and Porsche, the city is one of the most important manufacturing industrial centers. Business aside, the city center has several splendid historical sites and great shopping. Great place to consider for a day trip especially during Christmas Market season! ( More on Stuttgart here )

42. Esslingen am Necker

Just a 15 minute drive from Stuttgart is the absolutely picturesque half-timbered town of Esslingen, untouched by the ravages of war. Therefore, the town is exactly the same as it was in during the Medieval Ages, surrounded by rolling hills of vineyards. ( More on Esslingen here )

43. Schloss Ludwigsburg

Time: 2 hr 49

What was once a simple hunting lodge has over time evolved into a beautiful, sprawling palace. Today, people love to visit the Germany’s largest baroque palaces because of it’s stunning gardens and of course for the delicious annual Pumpkin Festival. ( More on Schloss Ludgwigsburg here )

44. Heidelberg

Time: 3 hr 19

I squeezed this in the list, as it’s just over a 3 hour drive from Munich, and to be honest, how could you NOT consider driving to this wonderful town!? A historic town perfect for hopeless romantics to loose their hearts strolling the banks of the Neckar and wandering the ruins of the Heidelberg Castle. Heidelberg is small enough that you could visit the entire town in a day anyways, but why not turn it into a weekend trip from Munich?  ( More on Heidelberg here )

45. Burg Hohenzollern

Time: 3 hr 4

Perched upon a hill in the Schwabian Alb, this previous fortress has evolved into a castle with multiple towers and turrets over the centuries and is a wonderful example of neo-Gothic architecture. Today, the castle still belongs to the Hohenzollern family and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. ( More on Burg Hohenzollern here )

46. Tübingen

Time: 2 hr 29

Along with Freiburg im Breisau and Heidelberg, Tübingen is home to one of southern Germany’s three famous universities. With many half-timbered houses and Schloss Hohentübingen which towers over the town, it is another picturesque town worth visiting.

47. Innsbruck

Time: 1 hr 53

If you’re looking for day trips to Austria from Munich, then be sure to check out Innsbruck! Innsbruck is the capital of the Tyrol and is Austria’s most important tourist region. What makes Innsbruck special is that it is nestled into the Tyrolean Alps and during the winter, it is one of the many popular ski towns people flock to. With colorful, vibrant buildings and a crystal clear river flowing through the town, this will make for a joyful day trip! ( More on Innsbruck here )

48. Hallstatt

Time: 2 hr 26

Hallstatt, Austria is one of those idyllic towns that ends up on those “ must-see-before-you-die ” lists as being one of the most beautiful towns to bless this planet. Located in a remote part of Austria along the banks of the Hallstätter See in the Salzkammergut region, the town clings to the edges of the lake, making for one of the most picturesque towns ever! If you’re looking for a jaw-dropping excursion from Munich, then heading over the border to Austria will leave you dumbfounded with awe!  ( More on Hallstatt here )

49. Salzburg

A day trip from Munich to Salzburg is easier than you might think! Salzburg borders Germany and Austria and is only a short distance away from Berechtesgaden .Home to the popular story of the Sound of Music, it’s worth coming to this town to explore the sights that Julie Andrews skipped and sang her way through! Even though its so close, it could also be turned into a weekend trip from Munich, giving you more time to explore!  ( More on Salzburg here )

50. Admont Abbey Library

Time: 3 hr 9

Tucked away in the Gesäuse National Park in the Stryia region, is the oldest Benedictine monastery in the region and contains the largest monastic library in the world! Decorated in pastel pinks and blues and highlighted with gold accents, it left one to imagine they were walking through the pearly gates of heaven! One of the Europe’s most stunning libraries . Admont Abbey’s library was considered to be the “Eighth World Wonder” soon after its completion in 1776. ( More on Admont Library here )

Czechia (Czech Republic)

51. cesky krumlov.

Time: 3 hr 26

Surrounded by a meandering Vltava River, with an incredibly interesting history, this town is a must see for those who are looking for something a little different than your average city! Founded in the 13th century and once owned by three different families, it escaped the horrors of both world wars and was forgotten about until the 90s, therefore, preserving it’s unique appearance earning it it’s UNESCO World Heritage badge. Cesky Krumlov is definitely one of the best day trips from Munich to the Czech Republic we’ve had yet!  ( More on Cesky Krumlov here )

52. Ceske Budejovice

Time: 3 hr 40

A bit further of a drive than the rest, but well worth the effort! The capital of South Bohemia, České Budějovice is home to a large industrial center, which helped it to grow. The historic city center shows the wealth that the city once enjoyed with colorful, unique, intricate buildings which helps draw people in who are looking for something a little less touristy besides just Prague . And just a short drive of about ten minutes sit the Hluboká Castle well worth a visit! ( More on Ceske Budejovice here )

If you’re interested in visiting Germany and are looking for more information, I highly recommend using the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide! Without these guides, I would be lost! This is my travel Bible!

Germany Travel Inspiration & Tips:

40 of the BEST Day Trips from Frankfurt

Your 10 Day Guide to Bavaria

Top Places to Visit in Germany

Most Picturesque Half-Timbered Towns in Germany

A COMPLETE Guide to Using the DeutscheBahn in Germany

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Replies to Ultimate List of Day Trips from Munich

so this is a month’s worth of day trips from Munich:))

I’m desperate to visit neuschweinstein but hadn’t realised how well connected Munich is to other great places #mondayescapes

Germany is so easy to travel because its all so well connected with the autobahn! Makes it easy to get everywhere!

Great tips for trips 🙂

This is an amazing list. I’ve wanted to really only visit Bavaria in Germany as it’s so pretty and oh that castle! But you’ve got me thinking about all sorts of parts of it now. It’s very stunning isn’t it?

Oh there is definitely sooo much more to Germany than just Bavaria 🙂

Wow what an amazing list, each place looks so beautiful and inviting, except the concentration camp, though I’d love to visit here for interest too. #MondayEscapes

I visited Munich over 20 years ago. If I wasn’t already in love with the place, I certainly would be now! So many beautiful places to visit. I like the fact that they’re incredibly picturesque, but also have a really interesting history behind them. And beer! #MondayEscapes

Heavens this is some list – what a great idea to encourage me to get out of bed a bit earlier at a weekend and explore places that bit further away. You lucky lady, having these places on your doorstep – well, not too far from your doorstep! #mondayescapes

I love how many options are within about an hour of Munich! I’m pinning this for later 🙂

oh wow, I felt like a kids in a sweet shop I want to visit them all especially Schloss Lichtenstein. I visited Esslingen and Ludwigsburg in December and fell head over heels with Germany, I will be bookmaking this post for my next trip. Thanks so much for linking up #mondayescapes xx

Great way to put it!

You know, I feel like moving to Munich at this moment. I would visit as many of these as possible! I have read info about day trips from the city but this is the most extensive and complete list I have seen. This post is gold right now since I will be visiting Munich on May. Kind of fascinating Germans do not move around their country when they seem to visit the most obscure countries in the world. #MondayEscapes

Yes, it always surprises me how many Germans don’t travel within their own country. People tell me all the time I know Germany better than the Germans do! haha

Great article! Very helpful to have all these in a list since I am traveling often to Munich and staying over the weekend!

Ingrid https://ingridzenmoments.wordpress.com

What an amazing list! We have visited Munich so many times – mostly for Oktoberfest and not ventured further to most on this list – love how much detail and timing info – great post! #citytripping

Ah that’s a shame, there’s so much more to see than just Munich and Oktoberfest. You definitely need to come back and explore more!

We will definitely, its one of those places keeps drawing you back

I really tried to pick a favourite from your selection but I just couldn’t. Everything looked so picturesque or interesting and the architecture of each style gets me every time! #MondayEscapes

You would need a whole month of constant travel to see them all! And they’re all worth visiting!

Munich is one of my favorite cities in the world. I’ve been to a few of these places but you’ve given me more suggestions for the next time we go. #citytripping

I have heard so many good things about Germany lately. What a wonderful country to explore and it looks so pretty and unique at the same time #MondayEscapes x

Wow! So many beautiful places! I think I might need to make a trip to Germany sometime in the near future…

Wow – this is a serious list, you’ve outdone yourself! I am all about day trips too and I like your analogy of living in L.A, so it’s really not a big deal – so true! Sharing, pinning, etc. – fab post! #mondayescapes

I’d rather waste my time driving somewhere beautiful than sitting in 3 hours of traffic in LA! 🙂

You always do such great comprehensive posts. Thank you for this! #citytripping

Thank you! 🙂

Wow! What an incredible list. I didn’t realise there were so many delightful sights to see near Munich. I think I need a road trip there. I particularly love the look of Schloss Neuschwanstein. Thanks for linking #citytripping

I think people always assume Germany is massive, and it is one of the larger countries in Europe, but it’s still small enough you could drive across the whole country from left to right in ~5 hours and top to bottom in around 8 without traffic of course!

We have done Schloss Neuschwanstein & Schloss Hohenschwangau and really enjoyed them. Need to go back and visit some of the other places you have mentioned. Will bookmark this for a later date #MondayEscapes

Love this post! I have yet to visit Munich (def. on the bucket list) so if I ever do this post will come in handy. I love taking day trips when I travel, and this list has so many wonderful spots!

Munich is one of my favorite cities in the world, it’s so “livable” to me. When I was visiting a couple of years ago, I did a few of these days trips and I wish I had time to do them ALL! #WanderfulWednesday

What an excellent and comprehensive list, I wish we’d had it before we visited Munich last year! #CityTripping

I really wanted to visit Zugspitze when I was in Munich but we only had 36 hours in the city and the price of the train up there really put me off. There are so many other lovely options though – I think I need to spend 2 weeks in the area and visit them all one day 🙂

Before I started reading this post I thought that we didn’t do a good job exploring around Munich while we were there, but we did explore around Salzburg during our trip too! I’d love to go back and explore some more! There really is so much around that area of Germany to explore!

Wow! What a detailed list. We really tried to get to Ehrenberg Castle in the Tirol, but things conspired against us 🙁 Oh well, next time we are in the region I suppose 🙂

Wow Lolo you have done it again! What an incredible list of day trip options from Munich. There is literally a decades worth of day trips here. I would find it so hard to choose! I loved the look of Mittenwald and its pretty gorge and I absolutely must see the Admont Abbey Library. What a beautifully ornate interior. Pinned, shared etc etc thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles

It was actually quite surprising once it was finished to realize that I have been to almost all of them. There are only 5 that are on my to-do list in the next couple of weeks! You don’t realize how much you travel until you compose a massive post! 🙂

What an incredible resource this is! I can hardly believe that you could see this many wonderful places on day trips from Munich – although I must say this Brit couldn’t stomach more than a two-hour trip anywhere! We have such a different attitude to you Americans and Australians. Fantastic recommendations for #FarawayFiles

I’m so crazy I’m contemplating driving 8hrs one way to the Kreukenhof Gardens for our anniversary for 2 nights and coming home another 8hours on Sunday! Haha

Living in a small country like Singapore, it is my DREAM to be able to just drive 3 hours to explore a new spot and come right back home and sleep – no need to spend money on hotels! I mean I could go to Malaysia, but crossing the causeway jam is a nightmare. Abensberg definitely caught my attention in the list. And I would never have thought of visiting Hallstatt as a day trip from Munich! I wonder.. Is it easy to rent a car in Munich and drive it to neighbouring countries? #CityTripping

Oh yes it’s absolutely not a problem to rent a car and go into another surrounding country. But if you were to go somewhere in Eastern Europe, then I recommend telling the car company as then they won’t give you a nice BMW.

This is such a comprehensive post, how wonderful got anyone visiting Munich. I want to go now and cross some off the list! #farawayflies

Wow that is a list and a half – there is so much to see in that part of Germany, from history to scenery and beautiful buildings. I think 2h is my cut-off for a day trip though, I do love the American attitude distance 🙂 #citytripping

You are amazing! I can’t believe you really did all that traveling. You are hard core :). This is so helpful. We would love to return to Germany and I enjoy these small towns that are lesser known. Thanks for putting together all this info!

Thank you! I get really fidgety if I don’t live my 10 mile radius every so often!

I love taking day trips when I visit somewhere – 3 hours drive isn’t too bad at all! Will keep this in mind as I might be going to Munich later in the year – Dachau sounds very moving, but an important place to see. #WanderfulWednesday

Oh wow, there really is so much fun to be had! It’s the best when you get to explore so many amazing places close to home!

Wow, so many tips. I think that do the same trip, even I am not from Munchen (I live in Prague). It funny when you comparing sitting in car in California and in Europe 🙂 #TheWeeklyPostcard

Okay wow, this list is incredible!!! I’ve been to Munich 3 times now, but from this list I’ve only been to Neuschwanstein. Who knew there were so many amazing day trips so close! Really great resource for anyone traveling in the area!

Great list of short trips from Munich, Lolo. I’ve been to some of these places, but I’ll bookmark your post for future reference. I have a cousin in Munich and next time I’ll visit her I’m going to stick your list under her nose. She might not even know about all these places. #TheWeklyPostcard

Surprisingly I’ve heard many people in Germany say they’ve never heard of the places we’ve been to! So you’ll definitely need to check them out!

Totally loved Munich, and would happily go back for a while and do some of these day trips.

I will be taking Paula back to Munich. We both enjoyed it, and will look at this for our reference for trips.

Wow this really is the ultimate list, there are so many good options. I remember reading your other posts about some of these places. I think on top of my list is Schloss Neuschwanstein, it looks just like a fairy tale. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.

Wow this is a really really helpful post for people planning on going to Munch, really useful to have timings too so that people can decide if they fancy it. Thanks for linking up to #MondayEscapes

Wow, this really is the ultimate list of day trips. Some fabulous ideas here, I like the sound of Mittenwald Gorge! #farawayfiles

I loved both Mittenwald and Füssen! I wish I’d seen this list before our Bavarian road trip, though–so much else to see, and all so close!

So many schloss’s so little time! You do get around! Ahhhh…I loved little Hallstatt, but haven’t been in over 20 years! This is one of the reasons that I wish we had a car to get out and explore those little towns and castles around Denmark on a weekend. When we do rent a car, we’re usually going a little further afield and miss some of the stuff within a few hours of Copenhagen! Thanks for sharing with #FarawayFiles – a great list and resource! Cheers, Erin

We had the same problem for 3 years but we finally bought a car May 2015 and since we have been on the go! Sooo much more freedom!

I just came back from a 5 day trip to Bavaria. Your list is fantastic! I agree with it 110%!

Wow, so many places to see. Passau looks interesting and many more besides.

What a fab list with some absolute gems! I’ve been lucky enough to see quite a few on your list… so I can just say that I support this list 200%!!!

I’ve never visited Germany and never really wanted to. I would love to now that I’ve read your post. I had no idea there was so many beautiful thing to see. Thank for sharing on the #theweeklypostcard

Oh such a shame you never wanted to visit before, but I’m at least glad I’ve changed your mind! Germany is such a beautiful country!

Wow, stunning places. I have only visited Munich once and I only got as far as Dachau. That’s one of the great things about Europe, there’s lots close together. #MondayEscapes

Oh my, there are so many places to visit from Munich for a day trip or over the weekend! I’m surprised to read that Germans hardly travel outside of their hometowns, what a shame, because look at all these picturesque and lovely destinations at their ‘backyard’ – how could they not visit these places?? LOL! #TheWeeklyPostcard

Can’t wait to get back to Germany and explore some more. Thanks for more suggestions for places to see.

I totally agree! Three or four hours in a car is nothing. There is so much within reach in Europe that it seems criminal to not get out and explore. Awesome list! Thanks for linking up! #wkendtravelinspiration

Ok, so “Ultimate” is right, holy moly! You know how I feel about day trips so I love this list. You’re so right about Europeans not exploring more of their own country or even neighbouring ones which as an Australian I always struggle to comprehend. From your list, I think I’ve only been to Berchtesgarden in Germany recently, although we did visit Heidelberg and Nuremberg when I was a kid. So much of Germany I need to explore and this has to be the definitive list to use!

I was just looking at your page today and saw you had nothing from Germany! Looks like you need to come here soon!

These day trips seem like an amazing idea! Would you suggest staying at Abensberg for a couple of days?

Abensberg is veeeery small and I would not spend more than an afternoon there!

German highways are so great, but also so crowded during the weekends!! We have visited many of the places you have mentioned. Last June we had a stop in Chiemsee and we drove further to Austria. We are planning a trip to Salzburgerland as it has lots of sights and attractions for children.

Hooooly moly, I feel like I just struck gold – this is so incredibly helpful!

I’m planning an 8-day trip to Germany (flying into and out of Munich) in March with my husband and 2-year-old kid. We would like to see Munich and Salzburg, but otherwise our schedule is wide open. What would you recommend? If we can stay overnight in 3 places so we’re not rushing from place to place, where would be a good third place to book an overnight stay?

Berchtesgaden is a reallly lovely area is you’re already going to be down near Salzburg!

this is like , the best and most comprehensive list ever!

I would love to go here after reading your post. Thanks for some great tips on where to go

Completely agree with Hallstatt being on here, one of my fav places ever!

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6 easy must-do weekend trips from Munich

Germany, like Italy, is one of those countries that's much younger than you think. For most of its history, Germany was a patchwork of small states spread across central Europe, each with its own government, customs, and in some cases, even language. Now, Germany is one of the largest and most economically successful countries in Europe, but many of its regions maintain their own character, and that's part of what makes Germany so fascinating to visit.

Bavaria is definitely one such region. Located in the south of the country, Munich is the capital of Bavaria, and it's one of Germany's most interesting cities. From the minute you arrive at Munich Central Station, you'll be able to immerse yourself in the magnificent buildings of this beautiful city, visit the incredible Christmas market, and enjoy the lively cultural attractions it has to offer.

But if you have some time on your hands, it would be a shame not to see more of what Bavaria has to offer. Weekend trips from Munich let you explore more of Germany and see some spectacular places. You can take a weekend trip back in time to the Middle Ages and see half-timbered houses in medieval villages or visit a fairytale castle with a truly amazing view. Whatever you want to see on weekend getaways from Munich, you won't have a hard time finding something worthwhile. All you need to do is hire a rental car or hop on an intercity or regional train, and the best of Bavaria is open to you.

Of course, seeing more of the country is much easier if you can travel light. Leave your bags behind at a Bounce luggage storage in Munich and visit some of these incredible attractions.

Easily one of the most beautiful cities in the region, if not in all of Germany, Regensburg is a fairytale of beautiful buildings, quaint narrow streets, and historical interest. No wonder it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Easily reached from Munich, it would be a shame not to see this historic town while you're in the area.

Distance from Munich

Around 120 km north of Munich, Regensburg can be reached with a drive of about an hour and 20 minutes. A train takes around the same amount of time, so you may be better off avoiding the stress of driving and using public transport.

Our activity recommendations

St. Peters Cathedral: Located close to the river, this breathtaking Cathedral has been the spiritual heart of Regensburg for centuries. It houses Germany's largest collection of stained glass and is a beautiful place to contemplate the craftsmanship and passion that went into building such a magnificent structure.

Old Town Hall: This iconic yellow structure dates back to the 1200s and was the center of power in Regensburg until the New Town Hall replaced it. From around 1600 to 1800, it hosted a Diet or assembly of the Holy Roman Empire, and displays inside will teach you more about the complex history of this pre-modern German state.

Regensburg Museum of History: This lovely town has had an impact on German history that's out of proportion with its modern importance. You can learn more about the history of the town – which in many ways is the history of Germany — at this fascinating museum.

Best season to visit

Regensburg has plenty of indoor activities that you can visit at any time. Summer may be the best time to wander the charming streets of the old town and enjoy the outdoor atmosphere, but winter brings a beautiful Christmas market to this incredibly photogenic place, so there's really no bad time to visit.

Neuschwanstein Castle

This iconic building may look familiar. Maybe it's because it appears in so many pictures online. Maybe it's because it was the basis for the Disney fairytale castle. Neuschwanstein is, in some ways, no more authentic than the Californian replica. But it is an incredibly photogenic place to visit.

120 km from Munich, you can reach Neuschwanstein Castle with a drive of just under two hours. Since this is a popular tourist destination, it's also possible to reach the castle by public transport, including shuttle buses that will take you from Munich Central Station right to the castle gates.

Visit the castle: Obviously, this is the number one thing to do in town. Built in the 19th century in honor of composer Richard Wagner by King Ludwig II , Castle Neuschwanstein was never intended to be a fortress but instead a retreat for the monarch and his friends. For that reason, it's beautifully preserved and looks very much like something out of a fairytale. You can now go inside the castle and explore the opulent rooms the king furnished to build his mountain retreat.

Marienbrücke: This iron footbridge crosses the Pöllat gorge only 500 m from the castle. As a result, it gives magnificent views of the castle and the rolling hills beyond and may be the perfect spot for a photo opportunity.

Alpsee boathouse: Surrounded by mountains, forests, and castles, the Alpsee is an incredibly beautiful lake, and there's no better way to explore it than by boat. At the Alpsee boathouse, you can rent a small boat and head out on the calm waters of the lake to enjoy these natural surroundings at their best.

The castle is one of the best weekend trips from Munich, no matter when you decide to go. If you want to do some boating during your weekend getaway, you'll want to go in the summer because the boathouse only operates from May to October. But the main attraction, the castle, is open year-round, making this a great day trip or weekend trip out of the city.

Linderhof Palace

Close to the Austrian border, this palace was another of King Ludwig II's pleasure palaces. When you see it for yourself, you'll have to agree that this monarch had great taste.

Just a short hop from Neuschwanstein, Linderhof lies about 100 km from Munich, so it can be reached in about an hour's drive from the city.

See the palace: Another somewhat obvious choice, visiting the stunning palace is the main thing to do around here. Built as a hunting lodge in 1878, this palace was, in fact, the favorite of the King. Admire the incredible Hall of Mirrors and visit the Dining Room where the eccentric King would dine alone while having entire conversations with imaginary guests.

Explore the grounds: The beautifully manicured grounds of the palace are almost as beautiful as the building itself. Check out the Venus Grotto , a man-made copy of Capri's famous Blue Grotto, and fantasize about what you would do on your property if you had Ludwig's money.

The grounds are their best in spring, and visiting in this season can also help you avoid some of the tourist crowds on what is one of the most popular day trips from Munich.

Herrenchiemsee

Located on an island on Bavaria's largest lake, this palace built by — who else? — King Ludwig II was intended to be the Bavarian monarch's rival to Versailles. However, he never got to see it finished, as it was still uncompleted when he drowned at the age of 40.

Herrenchiemsee lies about 90 km southeast of Munich and is easy to reach with an hour-long drive.

See the palace: How many palaces does a single monarch need? That's a question you may find yourself asking as you explore the on-site King Ludwig II Museum. You can also visit the State Room, the king's bedroom, and another Hall of Mirrors to admire either the taste or the madness of this king.

Augustinian Monastery: Also on the island, you'll find this Monastery that dates back to 620, making it the oldest in Bavaria. Wander through the halls and admire the austere life of the monks that couldn't be more of a sharp contrast to that of their neighbor, the king.

Summer is the best time to head out on the lake and explore, though there are enough indoor attractions here to make it worth a visit on weekend trips from Munich at any time of the year.

Berchtesgaden and Eagle's Nest

Part of the Berchtesgaden National Park, this is one of the best weekend trips from Munich to take if you want to see beautiful mountain scenery. But this being Germany, there's also some fascinating history to explore here.

It's around 150 km from Munich to the Eagle's Nest , requiring a drive of around two hours. Public transport is spotty in this mountainous area, so a rental car may be the best way to go.

The Eagle's Nest: If you're admiring the mountain scenery of this area, it may be a little disturbing to know you're not the only one to appreciate it. Hitler was a big fan of this area and had the Eagle's Nest built as his mountain retreat. In Germany, most structures dedicated to Hitler were destroyed after the war, but this one was preserved, and now you can visit and see the recreational life of one of history's most notorious dictators.

Berchtesgaden Monastery: Long before Hitler moved in, Berchtesgaden was home to a monastery that dates back to the 1100s. You can explore it and the charming old town of this Alpine city on weekend trips from Munich that will show you both the rich history and incredible natural surroundings.

Hiking: All these mountains have to be good for something. Berchtesgaden is a premium hiking destination popular with both Germans on day trips from Munich and international travelers. Bring your hiking boots and explore the many trails in this beautiful region.

Many mountain roads get closed during the winter, so summer is a good time to visit here, even if it does get crowded. Alternatively, consider a visit in the spring to see the wildflowers sprouting in the alpine meadows.

The Romantic Road

If you want to see the most picturesque towns in Bavaria, it's worth taking a trip along the so-called Romantic Road. It takes over 10 hours to drive the entire length of the road, but it makes one of the best weekend trips from Munich if you don't mind driving and want to see some unbelievably photogenic places.

The Romantic Road runs from Füssen in the south to Würzburg in the north. You can join it anywhere along its length, but Füssen is far closer to Munich. It's 130 km from Munich to the town, and you can start your adventure from there.

Augsburg: The oldest city in Bavaria and one of the oldest in Germany, Augsburg dates back to the Romans. Visit the beautiful Renaissance town hall and explore the charming Old Town to get a glimpse of Germany's distant past on one of the best weekend trips from Munich.

Nördlingen: One of the very few medieval walled towns still remaining in Germany, this town is located in the impact crater of a meteorite and features a tower built from the rock the impact formed. Less crowded than many of the towns along the Romantic Road, it's a wonderfully atmospheric place to explore.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Probably the most famous town along the Romantic Road, this beautiful riverside town is almost unbelievably photogenic, so it's not surprising that this is one of the most popular weekend trips from Munich.

Cruising along the road in warm weather is a delightful experience, so even though these towns get crowded in the summer, that's probably the best time to visit.

The best day trips and weekend trips from Munich can take you back in time or show you some wonderful natural surroundings. Whether you want to rent a car or take public transport, you'll have lots of options to explore what makes Bavaria so special.

If you only have three days in Munich , it's better to stick to the city. But with a little longer at your disposal, you can take advantage of these excellent weekend trips from Munich to get the most out of your German vacation.

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