Without doubt, Munich is one of the best cities to visit in Germany, if not Europe. Not only does the city centre have lots to do and see, but the surrounding area is the most beautiful part of the country. You can find castles straight from a fairy-tale, alpine lakes and some gorgeous little villages. Here is my ultimate guide to day trips from Munich – enjoy!
Day Trips from Munich: Exploring Bavaria and Beyond
Augsburg
Travel Time: 30 minutes by train
As one of Germany’s oldest cities, Augsburg offers a fascinating blend of Renaissance architecture, history, and culture. Visit the Fuggerei, the world’s oldest social housing complex still in use, and explore the beautiful Augsburg Cathedral.
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
Travel Time: 30 minutes
Outside of the city is the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, where the first Nazi concentration camp once was. Whilst this is obviously a deeply moving experience, the museum and reconstructed barracks are really good at taking you back in history. Plus, there are touching memorials that pay tribute to the lives lost in this dark chapter of Germany’s history.
Nuremberg
Travel Time: 1 hour by train
On the topic of history, one of the best places in Germany for it has to be Nuremberg. Here you’ll find the impressive Nuremberg Castle (€9.00 for a combined ticket) and the stunningly preserved Old Town. As well as older periods, the city famously played host to the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, which are available to visit at the Documentation Centre. The cost for this thought-provoking museum is currently €6.00 per adult. Once you’ve had your fill of history, make sure that you sample the locally-famous Nuremberg sausages and gingerbread.
Herrenchiemsee Palace
Travel Time: 1 hour by train
On an island on the tranquil Lake Chiemsee is an incredible palace built by King Ludwig II. Herrenchiemsee was actually inspired by Versailles and can is open to the public for €11.00. You can tour the many different state rooms or explore the wonderfully-kept gardens. The best part about a trip here has to be the scenic boat ride across to the island!
Salzburg, Austria
Travel Time: 1.5 hours by train
One of the best day trips from Munich is a visit to Salzburg, the birthplace of both Mozart and The Sound of Music. Your first stop is the Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the breathtaking Hohensalzburg Fortress perched above the city. Another must-see is the Mirabell Gardens, which are always fantastic to see. Whilst you are here, make sure that you sample some Austrian delicacies like Sachertorte or apple strudel. You could even consider the Sound of Music tour to see all of the historic sets of the movie.
Regensburg
Travel Time: 1.5 hours by train
Another great day trip from Munich is Regensburg. Yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the medieval Old Town is a great place to start. You’ll see the impressive Regensburg Cathedral and you can stroll across the Stone Bridge. If you’re after something quite quirky, check out Wurstkuchl which is incidentally one of the oldest sausage kitchens in the world. Lastly, if you have a car to hand, why not check out the Walhalla Memorial just on the outskirts. This was built back in the 19th century by Crown Prince Ludwig and has an incredible view from the top over the Danube Valley.
Zugspitze and Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car or train
If you are a fan of nature and the outdoors, Zugspitze should be high up on your list of places to visit; it is Germany’s highest peak after all! You can take a cable car up and the ticket price varies based on what you want to do. Nearby is also the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen which is accessible by bus or train. This is a perfect place to indulge in alpine views and, of course, Bavarian cuisine.
Linderhof Palace
Travel Time: 1.5 hours by car or train
Whilst Schloss Linderhof is the smallest of Ludwig’s castles, I would actually go as far to say it is the most lavish. The interiors are immaculately decorated and the gardens are certainly worth seeing. Here you’ll also see the Venus Grotto, where Ludwig apparently indulged his Wagnerian fantasies. Whilst you are in this direction, stop off at Oberammergau which is known for frescoes, wood carvings and the famous Passion Theatre.
Bamberg
Travel Time: 1 hours 45 minutes by car or train
If you are after a fairy tale experience, then Bamberg’s UNESCO-listed Old Town could be for you. This Bavarian city is famous for the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) which is dramatically perched on top of a historic bridge. You also have the gorgeous Bamberg Cathedral and some of the most unique beer (rauchbier; “smoked beer”) in Germany. Lastly, whilst you are here, definitely stroll down Little Venice, a traditional row of former fishermen’s houses nestled along the river.
Würzburg
Travel Time: 2 hours by car or train
Wurzburg is a fair way away from Munich, but it is home to some excellent feats of architecture and history. The Wûrzburg Residence is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and will cost you €10.00 for admission. Inside you’ll see some excellent examples of baroque interiors as well as the world’s largest fresco by Tiepolo. Nearby is the Marienberg Fortress where you can find breathtaking views of the city’s red-roofed skyline. Another great place to see is the Alte Mainbrücke (Old Main Bridge) which is actually lined with statues of saints.
Berchtesgaden and Königssee
Travel Time: 2 hours by car or train
If you fancy a wander about the natural landscapes, then Berchtesgaden is an ideal destination. Whilst the National Park is home to Königssee Lake, one of Germany’s most iconic sites, nearby you’ll also find the site of the Eagle’s Nest, Adolf Hitler’s former mountain residence. Whilst it is now a ruin having been destroyed after the Second World War, it is well-worth seeing for the historical significance and views.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Travel Time: 2 hours by train or car.
Of course, the most iconic day trip from Munich has to be a trip to the gorgeous Neuschwanstein Castle. This masterpiece is the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and has one of the most opulent interior of any European castle. One of my favourite things about this place is actually the range of viewpoints where you can see the castle. Marienbrücke (Bridge of our Lady) and Reith-Alpe Lodge are some of the best. You could also combine a visit to Neuschwanstein with a visit to the nearby Hohenschwangau Castle if you have access to a car.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Travel Time: 2.5 hours by car or train
Lastly is Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which is quite far away from Munich but I think worth the effort. It is a town that is lost in time and you’ll feel as if you were walking through a scene from an early Disney film. It is really difficult to find a more charming and quaint town in Germany.
Top Tips
- Use the BayernTicket: This is a budget-friendly train pass that allows unlimited regional travel for a day within Bavaria. It’s valid from 9am on weekdays (midnight on weekends) and works on all regional trains and public transport. The ticket costs €32.00 per day.
- Check out the Deutsche Bahn website: You can check connections in a matter of seconds and even book your tickets. They also have an app which is a really useful download to check the platforms for connecting trains and any delays.
- Book Tickets in Advance: Popular spots like Neuschwanstein Castle can sell out quickly. Reserve tickets online in advance to avoid long waits. Also, some sites like Linderhof and Herrenchiemsee have guided tours only.
- Start Early to Beat the Crowds: Top attractions get busy by late morning, especially in peak season. Try to arrive early in the day to enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Final Thoughts | Day Trips from Munich
Whilst Munich itself has heaps to offer, a day trip or two will make your visit to Bavaria that bit more memorable. I’ve covered all of my own top things to do and see, however I’m sure there are plenty more options that I could add. If you have any questions or suggestions please let me know; I always love hearing from you.
