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Munich is the perfect city to start sightseeing in Germany, particularly Bavaria.
- It’s easy to get to and around.
- It is a great introduction to Bavarian culture.
- Oktoberfest (need I say more?)
You can easily spend a day in Munich or several (here are my 1, 2, and 3 day Itineraries) because there is so much to explore.
But another reason why I love München is because it is such an easy city to call a home base. You can add on almost infinite days to your itinerary by going out each day and returning back without ever having to check out of your hotel. This is especially handy when you are traveling Germany with kids and don’t want to do a bunch of hotel hopping with all your kid gear!
In this guide, I’m going to cover the best day trips from Munich but also some great, off-the-beaten path gems (yes, they do still exist!), the best ways to get to the different cities, and more. Whether you are looking for a city near Munich to explore, want to get into the mountains, or are on the hunt for gorgeous castles in Germany, I’ve got you covered.
Looking For Even More Germany Planning Advice and Suggestions?
- 20 Authentic German Foods to Try While In Bavaria
- The Best Tents at Oktoberfest
- Know Before You Go Tips For Traveling To Germany
- When Is the Best Time To Visit Germany?
Planning a Trip To Bavaria? Join Our Bavaria Travel Planning Facebook Community Here
Day Trips From Munich By Train, Car, or Tour?
Munich makes for the perfect home base to do day trips from. Here are 20+ Day Trips From Munich to help you really explore some local gems.
One of the easiest ways to navigate the Deutsche Bahn (DB) train system is to just download the Deutsche Bahn App. It’s incredibly easy to use. You can purchase tickets right on your phone, see real-time time tables, and more.I love Germany’s train and rail system. It is so stereotypical German for the whole system to be simple, efficient, and almost never late! One of the fantastic parts is that public transportation can get you just about everywhere you are going to want to go in Bavaria, including a lot of surprising small towns and off the beaten path locations! You’ll find many day trips from Munich by train on this list, but do know that many of my “lesser known” suggestions will be faster by car.
If you are in Munich, you’ll probably also want to download the MVV App as well for the Munich public transportation around town.
Ok, shhhh. One of my favorite secrets that many other bloggers don’t disclose is the Bayern Ticket and it.is.amazing! Most likely, it is going to be the best bang for your buck and I HIGHLY recommend learning all about it if you are wanting to do day trips near Munich.
Read my How To Use the Bayern Ticket article here to see prices, what trains you can use and more.
You can also watch my Bayern Pass Tutorials Here
Renting a Car and Driving In Germany
Many people get squeamish (or REALLY excited, depending on your interests) about driving in Germany. Is it true that there are no speed limits? Yes.
And No.
Read my Driving in Germany Guide to understand what I mean by that, help you know what all you need, the rules you’ll have to follow, where to rent cars from, and more.
For a lot of my Munich day trips suggestions, a lot of them are a bit more off the tourist path. So, while that means that yes, you can technically get to them by train, for a lot of these, I highly recommend a car to get to much faster.
I really don’t recommend having a car for your entire length of stay in Munich though. Parking can be hard to find (or expensive if it is not included with your hotel), and driving in a big, foreign city can be intimidating for some. Therefore, if you can, I recommend having a car just for the few day trips you might be taking.
Another option if you do have a car the whole time while staying in Munich is to find a Park and Ride (P & R) right outside of the city and then take public transportation to your hotel so you can avoid driving in the city itself. This is often free to park at and is super easy.
Planning a Trip to Germany? Join Our Fantastic Traveling in Bavaria Facebook Group!
Car Rentals
You can find car rental companies throughout Munich and they will most likely be cheaper if you get them away from the Hauptbahnhof or Airport. If you are looking for affordable car rentals in Munich, you can expect to pay between $20-30 a day for car rental (plus gas).
However, with public transportation in Germany being so efficient and easy, I really do encourage you to attempt at least one day via trains. It is such an enjoyable experience!
Munich Tours
If you are the kind of traveler that doesn’t get the thrill out of planning your own days, then a great way to go for day trips is to find a suitable Munich Day Tour. A lot of the locations below are easy to find group tours for day trips Munich Germany as well as private tours from Munich day tours where everything is planned and ready for you.
30 Of the Best Day Trips From Munich
So, now that you know how to easily get around Germany for day trips, here are some of my own, personal favorite day trips to take from Munich.
Note: While I’ve included transportation time for both driving and train, the locations are listed under whatever would be the fastest method. For example, it may only take 1 hour to get to one location via car, but 3 hours with the train somehwere. I will note both times, but it will be listed under the shortest possible option, so plan accordingly if you are going to use a different mode of transport.
In Less Than An Hour
Dachau Concentration Camp
Day trips from Munich to Dachau are a must if you are spending time in Munich, even just a few days.
In about 30-60 minutes on public transportation (30 min by car), you can be at one of the most powerful concentration camps that tourists can still visit. In Germany, all school age students are required to visit a concentration camp at least once during their schooling and it is clear to see why.
This is not a “tourist” destination for the sake of selfies and fun. This is a somber reminder of the evils of our past so that we can make better choices for our future.
Note: This can be a very difficult activity for many people emotionally and mentally. I highly suggest allowing for a few hours after your tour to decompress for a bit before moving onto your next Munich activity.
Read my EXACT Step by Step Guide On How to Easily Get to Dachau
Should I take my children on a concentration camp tour?
I often get asked if kids should go and I always say yes. You can choose to do a self guided audio tour so that you can go at your own pace. Young kids don’t fully grasp the concept of the camp and ones who can, should. As a parent, you can decide exactly how much they fully take in. For example, if you do not want them going into the gas chambers, they can stay outside. The first time I visited a concentration camp was when I was 14 and I will always remember how compelling it was for me. I have also been to Dachau in both summer and winter and I would argue that both seasons are equally as important to visit. Therefore, do not let poor weather deter you.
There are English tours every day at 11 am and 1 pm and on Saturday and Sunday from June 22 to September 15 at 12:15 for €3.50
Getting To Dachau from Munich:
By Public Transportation: It only takes 45-60 Minutes
- Take the S2 towards Altomünster. Ride 9 stops and get off at Dachau Bahnhof.
- Transfer to bus stops and find the 726 towards Saubachsiedlung and ride it 7 stops.
- Get off at “Dachau, KZ-Gedenkstätte”
Therme Erding
Whether you are looking for a great rainy day activity or just need some major relaxation after all those long days of travel, visiting Therme Erding, the world’s largest thermal spa, is the perfect day trip from Munich.
You can take the kids to the huge “Galaxy” water park section where you’ll find tons of different pools, waterslides, and more. Or, you can choose to go to the adult only spa section, where you’ll find fantastic saunas, soak in the thermal baths, or book a relaxing massage.
Getting To Therme Erding from Munich:
By Car: About 40 Minutes on the A94 to Erding
By Public Transportation: About 40 minutes. There are several options that are S-Bahn/ Train Combos. Check the Deutsche Bahn App or Google Maps for time of day that works best for you for exact routing and length of time
Read my Complete Therme Erding Guide Here
Bad Tölz
This charming town is nestled right at the feet of the Bavarian Alps, making it a stunning backdrop for any photographer lover. There are tons of great hikes and walks from the town itself, or, while in Bad Tölz, be sure to drink some of the spring well waters, which supposedly have healing properties! This is also just a great little village to wander around in for an afternoon as well.
Getting To Bad Tölz from Munich:
By Car: Be there in about 50 minutes when you take the A8 to the B13 which takes you to Bad Tölz.
By Public Transporation: There are several options (all of which will take about 1 hour and 45 minutes) that are S-Bahn/ Train Combos. Check the Deutsche Bahn App or Google Maps for time of day that works best for you for exact routing
Ettal Monastery
At first glance, this elaborate, beautiful Monastery might look more like a castle than an Abbey. The inside of the monastery feels nothing short of a baroque museum, with all the frescoes and brightly shimmering facades!
And since it seems like German monks and beer always oddly go hand in hand, it’s no surprise that there is a brewery right next door. Nothing beats freshly brewed beer…except for when it comes from monks, and then somehow, it always tastes AMAZING!
Getting To the Ettal Monastery from Munich:
By Car: Just over 1 Hour on the A95
By Public Transportation: This is a possibility, but with numerous changes. I highly recommend a car for this day trip and adding on a place like Linderhof and even Neuschwanstein to make for a full, worthwhile day trip from Munich castles tour with a short stop at the Monastery
In Less Than 2 Hours
Neuschwanstein Castle
Arguably, a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich is one of the most popular day trips from Munich, and for good reason. While yes, you’ll be sharing the magical castle with plenty of other tourists, this is a MUST do from Munich!
Few things (besides beers, brats, and Lederhosen) scream “Germany” the way that this famous castle does.
Since this is such a popular place, I’ve created an “Everything You Need To Know About Neuschwanstein Guide” which includes some top tips on how to avoid the crowds, best times to go, places to add on for your day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein and more.
Also check out:
- Paragliding OVER the Neuschwanstein Castle: an adrenaline-pumping memory of a lifetime
- Exactly How to Get From Munich to Neuschwanstein (Train, Car, or Tour)
- Day trips from Munich in December: Is Neuschwanstein in the winter worth it?
Getting To Neuschwanstein from Munich:
Read My Article Above on How to Get from Munich to Neuschwanstein. It gives exact directions by car, detailed instructions for the public transportation (and the several transfers you’ll need to make), as well as day trip tour options.
You can also take a Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Munich. Here are a few that are worth booking:
Hohenschwangau
On your day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, you’d be remiss if you skipped out on Neuschwanstein’s neighbor, the more “lived in castle” of Hohenschwangau. If you have to twist my arm, I would actually argue that, while you simply can’t beat the images of Neuschwanstein, that I actually prefer the inside tour of Hohenschwangau.
Luckily, if you drove on your trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich then you’ll have plenty of time to do Hohenschwangau as well.
Linderhof Palace
While everyone makes the day trips from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle a top priority, one of my absolute favorite castles/ palaces in all of Germany is often quickly overlooked. Ironically enough, with a car, you can actually easily do Linderhof in the morning, then go on to do Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau in the afternoon for one amazing, Bavaria castle day trip day!
Why do I love Linderhof so? Just like Neuschwanstein, it is nestled into the Bavarian Alps, but unlike Neuschwanstein, where you can only see a few rooms inside, at Linderhof, you can tour almost the entire palace. But, it’s not just the palace you are there to see. The castle is on a massive amount of beautiful garden grounds, including an underground cave and grotto! And one of the best parts is that this is way more off the beaten path and far less touristy than Neuschwanstein!
If you are looking for Munich castle tours, head over to Linderhof to be blown away!
Getting From Munich to Linderhof Palace
By Car: Just over 1 Hour on the A95 leads you to Linderhof
By Public Transportation: It would take over 3 hours just to reach Linderhof by trains (it is getting into the mountains after all, so it’s best to rent a car and do Linderhof, Neuschwanstein, and Hohenschwangau all in one day to make the most of your car rental.)
Garmisch Partenkirchen
A Munich to Garmisch day trip is often at the top list for people and it’s easy to see why. Granted, this is another location that I think is worthy of more than just one day, but if that is all you have, it is a totally do-able (albeit long) day trip from Munich.
Most people coming down to Garmisch are actually wanting a Zugspitze day trip from Munich, which is the tallest mountain in Germany. And lying right at the foot of the Zugspitze is the ultra Insta-worthy Eibsee, which is one of the most beautiful Alpine lakes in Germany.
However, the town of Garmisch itself is quite charming and picturesque to have a short wander through to marvel at the frescoes on the buildings as well.
There is also a really fun Rodelbahn (Alpine coaster) that you can ride as well as the beautiful Partnach Gorge to hike through. However, you probably will only have time for either the town walk, coaster, and gorge OR the Zugspitze and Eibsee.
Getting To Garmisch from Munich
By Car: Just over 1 Hour on the A95 leads you to Linderhof
By Public Transportation: It’s incredibly easy to get to the town of Garmisch-Partenkirche from Munich. Just use your Bayern Pass and take the RB6 (or RB60) and be from one train station to the next in about 1.5 hours
Getting To the Zugspitze from Munich by Train: Here is a fantastically detailed article that outlines exactly how to get to the Zugspitze by train from Munich.
Weltenburg Abbey and Kelheim
If you are truly looking for an amazing day trip from Munich, just head a little bit north to Kelheim. Here, you can walk up to the beautiful Liberation Hall for fantastic views out over the Donau (Danube) River.
However, it’s not really Kelheim that we are here to see. Instead, here you are going to get on a ferry that is going to twist and wind down the Donau for about 45 minutes. On this leisurely ride, you’ll pass giant rock karsts and feel like you are in a Bavarian fairytale!
As the ferry turns the corner, the Weltenburg Brewery, our destination, will come into sight. Not only is this monastery located in an absolutely picture-perfect location, but it is actually the oldest monastery brewery in the world!!! And while that in and of itself is a great bragging right, it doesn’t mean much without some fantastic beer to back it up!
At the Monastery, which is on its own little island, dip into the beautiful church, where if you are lucky enough, there might even be someone playing the huge organ. If you contact the brewery ahead of time, they will sometimes offer tours as well.
But then, spend the rest of your time lounging under the shade of the trees in the classic Bavarian Beer garden. Order Weltenburg’s famous “Barock Dunkel” (this is actually one of my favorite dark beers in all of Germany). The bier garden also serves some classic, authentic, Bavarian food as well, like a Rahmschwammerl which is a bread dumpling slathered with a fantastic creamy, mushroom sauce or try a Haxen, which is a perfectly roasted pork knuckle. Looking for the best food to try in Germany? Here’s my top 20 suggestions.
Getting To Weltenburg from Munich
By Car: Plan on about an 1.5 hour drive from Munich to get to the Kelheim Schiffsanlegestelle (Boats)
Address: Stadtknechtstraße 5, Kelheim. From here, take the ferry to the Weltenburg
By Public Transportation: It would take over 3 hours just to reach Kelheim by trains, therefore, this day trip from Munich is best done by car.
Nuremberg
Nürnberg is the perfect day trip from Munich. The city itself is quintessential Germany with half-timbered houses, ancient fortifications and walls, a castle, and plenty of markets (farmers, Christmas, etc) galore. The old city is small and compact enough to easily walk the whole thing in a long morning. That leaves just enough time to take the S-Bahn across town to one of the best museums and holocaust memorials I have ever been to, the Documentation Center. Nuremberg is stifled in WWII history (Nuremberg trials anyone?) and while the old Nazi Rally grounds were heavily destroyed at the end of the war, it is still a place to visit if you have even a splinter of interest in history, as you can still see so much even today.
Between the Old Town and the Nazi Grounds and Documentation Center, you have yourself a jam packed, memorable, and fantastic Munich to Nuremberg day trip!
Getting To Nuremberg from Munich
By Car: Pending traffic, it only takes about an hour and 45 minutes to drive from Munich to Nuremberg and is an easy drive North along the A9 (It will take longer if driving during rush hour times)
By Public Transportation: Munich to Nürnberg by train is quite easy (some regional train routes do require one change) and will get you there in about 1 hour 45 minutes on the regional trains with the Bayern Pass.
(Note: You can take the ICE Train from Munich to Nurnberg but it will be more expensive but can get you there in just over an hour)
Burghausen
While there are plenty of schlosses (beautifully ornate palaces) to see in Bavaria, I love going to classic castles as well. And that includes the fascinating Burghausen, which lies on the border of Austria and Germany, to the east of Munich.
But what makes Burghausen such a good day trip from Munich? Well, it is the longest castle in the world! That means that there is plenty to walk, explore, and enjoy to make for the perfect day as you step back into time in the old, stone, castle.
While there, you can wander the medieval, picturesque old town as well or head down the road to stroll around the idyllic Wöhrsee (lake).
Getting To Burghausen from Munich
By Car: It will only take about 1.25 hours to get to Burghausen from Munich by train on the A94
Address: Stadtknechtstraße 5, Kelheim. From here, take the ferry to the Weltenburg
By Public Transportation: In less than 2 hours, you can get to Burghausen on the Bayern Pass. Depending on what time you leave, will depend on the exact route and trains. Check the Deutsche Bahn App or Google Maps to plan accordingly
Regensburg
I may be a bit biased since I now call Regensburg home, but this is probably one of the most underrated, well worth it, and best day trips from Munich out there. Regensburg is one of the best preserved medieval cities and is old….like REALLY old. Many of the houses and buildings in the Innenstadt are still standing from about 800 years ago!! The town itself has history (and structures you can still see today) that goes back 2000 years!!!
Since it was one of the wealthiest and most northern cities of the Holy Roman Empire, you might even forget you are Germany at times and think you’ve escaped to Italy, with the tall lookout towers and winding cobblestone alleys.
You can easily spend 1 perfect day in Regensburg (and do my free DIY walking tour of the town to really get a feel for it)
Getting To Regensburg from Munich
By Car: It’s a really easy drive from Munich to Regensburg by either taking the A9 and A94 or by taking the A92 (I particularly like this route because it takes you on the B15, which can be a beautiful stretch of highways in the countryside!)
By Public Transportation: Use the Bayern Pass and be from one train station to the other in 1.5 hours
Bad Abbach or Bad Füssing
If the idea of a spa getaway or the local, “German Baths” sounds like a must try (which it should!) but you want to avoid the crowds of Therme Erding, there are several spa towns near Munich that are worth looking into.
Bad Abbach: I personally love Bad Abbach because it is completely off the beaten path! You’ll really only find locals at this thermal pool and Saunahof and you’ll be transported into a world of relaxation! The downstairs “pool” area is a great place to splash around in, and then head down into the Saunas (adult only, no clothing/suits allowed) for some classic German spa time! This spa is a bit smaller than Therme Erding or the ones in Bad Füssing, really giving it a more local feel.
By Car: About 1 hour 20 minutes from Munich
Read My Full Bad Abbach Review Here
Bad Füssing: Bad Füssing is basically an entire spa TOWN! Again, this thermal town is a bit more off the beaten track for tourists, but is quite popular with Germans and Austrians, so it can still get busy. However, just choose from what kind of spa activities you want to do and you have it all at your exposure. Therme Eins is an absolutely HUGE thermal spa. You could spend all day in the uniquely Bavarian Saunahof area that has plunge pools and plenty of saunas or go to the giant thermal pools as well. There is also the Johannesbad in Bad Füssing, which has enormous thermal pools (great all year around!) and spa packages available.
By Car: About 1 hour 45 minutes from Munich
Read My Full Guide On The Bad Füssing Thermes
Oberammergau
This is one of my favorite, picture perfect German towns to visit. From Munich, you’ll be down into the Alps and Oberammergau in a little over an hour and be transported into a truly Bavarian Alpine Scene!!!
While Oberammergau is known for several things, one thing that will (quite literally) catch your eye immediately is all the painted buildings. And no, it’s not just the gorgeous, pastel-colored houses of Germany, but instead, you’ll find massive artwork on a lot of the facades of the buildings, often depicting biblical scenes or daily life in the Bavarian Alps. They are all truly gorgeous!
Oberammergau is also known for its woodworking skills. Wander around the town for a while and stop into one of the many, locally owned wood carving shops to be blown away by the artistry.
While on your day trip to Oberammergau, take the Laber Bergbahn Cable Car to the top of one of the nearby Bavarian Alpine peaks to be swept away by stunning views expanding over the Alps. While up there, go for a hike or just have lunch at the cafe!
Getting To Oberammergau from Munich
By Car: In less than an hour and a half, you can reach Oberammergau via the A95. Take the B2 to B23 to reach the town.
By Public Transportation: Train times will vary. One of the shorter options is about 2.5 hours from Munich. First, you’ll take the RB 59513 to Welheim (Oberbay). From there, you’ll transfer to the RB 59449 towards Garmisch-Partenkirchen and get off at Murnau. Take one more train RB 59565 to Oberammergau.
Amusement Parks in Bavaria
One fun way to break away from the city and do a fun day trip from Munich is to head out for the day to an amusement park. There are actually a lot right here in Bavaria, so just choose which one looks like the most fun (or easiest to get to!) and go have a blast!
Note: You will need a car to get to all of these amusement parks in Germany
Bayern Park
About 1.5 hours by car from Munich is the fantastic Bayern Park. There are rollercoasters, water rides, and even an animal park all right inside the amusement park. While there are plenty for adults to do, there is actually a ton for little ones and families as well, including “kiddie” rides.
Address: Bayern-Park Freizeitparadies GmbH, Fellbach 1, 94419 Reisbach
Pullman City
Also about 1.5 hours drive from Munich is the Pullman City Western Town. Step back into the old West with archery, panning for gold, real pony rides, live country music, line dancing, and even sitting around a good ‘ol campfire. There are also shows put on by live performers to entertain as well!
Address: Westernstadt Pullman City, Ruberting 30 · 94535 Eging am See
Legoland
Also, about 1.5 hours drive from Munich is Legoland Deutschland (read my overview here) ! Kids, and kids at heart, LOVE Legoland where everyone uses their imaginations! Become a brave knight, fly a plane as a pilot, or go on explorations, all within the theme park. There are roller coasters that are ideal for the younger crowd, an “underwater world,” and plenty of activities to keep kids busy all day long! Legoland is perfect for kids 2-12 years old. You can even get a free ticket for kids on their birthday.
Address: LEGOLAND Allee 1, 89312 Günzburg, Germany
Less Than 3 Hours From Munich Day Trips
Salzburg Day Trip From Munich
Honestly, Salzburg deserves SO much more than just a day trip. But, I get it. Some European whirlwind itineraries don’t allow for that kind of leisurely travel, but with Salzburg being one of my favorite cities of all time, even if you can squeeze it in as one of your day trips from Munich to Salzburg, then it is so worth it. (If you do have more time on your trip, I highly suggest my 10 Days in Bavaria, Austria, and Switzerland Itinerary, which covers Salzburg and several other locations on this list)
Since getting from Munich to Salzburg by train is actually a cinch using the Bayern Pass, you can be from one Hauptbahnhof to the other in just about 2 hours. And what is there to do in Salzburg? Oh so much!!!
- Take a free walking tour with Rick Steves
- Eat and be merry at my favorite beer hall in all of Europe; the Augustiner Bräu Kloster Mülln
- Tour the towering fortress
- See the birthplace of Mozart
- Do a Sound Of Music tour from Munich (There are both bus and bike tours, depending on your time and interests)
- So much more!
Getting To Salzburg from Munich
By Car: Since it only takes about 1.5-2 hours by car, a Munich to Salzburg day trip is quite do-able if you allow for a very long, full day. HOWEVER, Austria does require a Vignette to be purchased before entering Austria. You can get this car sticker easily at any gas station on the Autobahn before the border, just make sure you have it when you cross or risk high fines.
By Public Transportation: You can actually use the Bayern Pass for the Munich to Salzburg train and it’s super simple! But, note that if you are traveling on the Bayern Pass, that you can only use Regional Trains, therefore, the RJX and EC trains (high speed) will not be valid with your Bayern Pass. Look for trains that start with BRB and RE
(Review how to know which trains you can use the Bayern Pass with this easy video tutorial below)
From the Munich Hauptbahnhof to Salzburg it is about 2 hours (give or take a few minutes pending the exact train.
Berchtesgaden
You’ll actually see that I think that going to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg on my 10 Day Bavaria, Austria, and Switzerland Itinerary is more efficient than doing a Munich to Berchtesgaden day trip. However, if going from Munich is all that your agenda allows for, it is so worth the long day to get there, as it is one of the most beautiful areas in Germany (in my opinion!)
Luckily, not only is it a stunningly gorgeous national park but there is so much to choose from to do there as well.
Note: If you are planning a day trip from Munich to Berchtesgaden, then you will need to plan on having a very long, full day. Leave as early as possible.
Berchtesgaden Eagle’s Nest
Germany’s grappling with the past can still be seen today in places like the Eagle’s Nest. After all, this was once Hitler’s private Alpine getaway and often was the meeting place for high authority Nazi get togethers.
However, today you will find hardly any mention of Hitler or the Nazi regime, yet it is still one of the most visited attractions in all of Berchtesgaden National Park. So, if you are wanting to go here for historical context, I suggest skipping it (and instead going to the Dokumentation Zentrum, one bus stop before Hitler’s Eagle Nest, and then just making this a beautiful lunch spot)
Today, what you will find is a sprawling beer garden and restaurant topping the peak of Mount Kelstein. Granted, it is mostly tourists who do the Eagles nest tour from Munich, but regardless, you will be rewarded with some absolutely stunning views of the imposing Alps in all directions!
Note: It is not even worth the attempt of going up to the high Eagle’s Nest if the weather is bad or cloudy. Since all it is is a restaurant today and viewpoint, you will see nothing if it is covered in clouds.
Getting To The Eagles Nest from Munich
By Car: Driving yourself is going to be the most straightforward and fastest way to get to Berchtesgaden, but particularly the Eagle’s Nest from Munich. It only takes about 2 hours by car. HOWEVER, you will have to drive through Austria, which means you will need to get a Vignette for your vehicle in order to drive on the Austrian Autobahn or risk high fines (yes, even for just a short stretch of road)
By Tour: Taking a Munich to Eagles Nest tour is probably the second easiest way to get to the Eagle’s nest from Munich. Most will take you to the Dokumentation Zentrum as well. Book an Eagle’s Nest Tour Here
By Public Transportation: There are no direct routes to get from Munich to the Eagle’s Nest and since it is high up in the mountains, it is quite difficult with many transfers.
1) Use a Bayern Ticket to go from Munich to Freilassing. Transfer to the train to Berchtesgaden Hauptbahnhof
2) At the Berchtesgaden HBF, find the bus terminals and take Bus 838 to the Kehlstein Busabfahrt (which is the “Eagle’s Nest Bus Stop”)
3) Transfer Buses here (additional bus ticket needed) to an RVO bus that will take you up to the Eagles Nest
Berchtegaden’s Dokumentationzentrum Obersalzberg
If the weather is bad or if you are already planning your trip to the Eagle’s Nest, then adding the Dokumentationzentrum is well worth your time. It is the bus stop that you have to get off at any way to transfer up to the Eagles Nest and is a very well done museum. Not only do you get the history of the Obersalzberg area but it does a phenomenal job of describing the rise and the history of National Socialism in Germany and how the Nazis came to such power, particularly in this region.
Getting To The Obserzalbserg Dokumentation Zentrum from Munich
Follow the same instructions as for the Eagle’s Nest
Berchtesgaden’s Schönau am Königssee
Perhaps one of the most beloved locations in all of Berchtesgaden is the absolutely breathtakingly beautiful Koenigsee. You can easily spend your entire day at the lake and be awe struck the entire time. Some people compare it to an inland version of the Nordic Fjords, with the towering cliffs plummeting into the beautiful aqua waters below and fairytale boat rides. A few things to do at Königssee are:
- Take a Boat Ride: This is the highlight for most people coming to the lake and it can take you all around the picture-perfect location. During your boat tour, you’ll be completely transported to a different realm and time as your captain plays a song on his trumpet to demonstrate the amazing echo of the mountains and lake.
- Stop at Saint Bartholomä Church: One of the most iconic images of Königssee is this church. You can get off the boat ride and enjoy this little chapel on the lake
- Boat Houses – You’ll see tons of picture-perfect boat houses with the peaks in the background just screaming for you to grab your camera
- Eiskapelle – Take a 30-minute hike from the Bartholomä church and you can reach this ice cave. However, this route or cave may be closed due to the cave becoming unstable in recent years and is at risk of collapsing
- Salet & Obersee – Take a boat to Salet and then from there, there is about a one hour, medium level hike to the smaller (but just as stunning) Obersee.
- Röthbach Waterfall – From Obersee, just follow the signs to the waterfall, which is the tallest in all of Germany!
Getting To Königssee from Munich
By Car: You can easily get to Königssee from Munich in less than 2 hours on the A8. HOWEVER, you will have to drive through Austria, which means you will need to get a Vignette for your vehicle in order to drive on the Austrian Autobahn or risk high fines (yes, even for just a short stretch of road)
By Public Transportation: There are no direct routes to get from Munich to Konigsee it is a very long day doing it this way with multiple transfers. Allow for plenty of time for transport as well as enough time to actually enjoy the lake itself.
1) Use a Bayern Ticket to go from Munich to Freilassing. Transfer to the train to Berchtesgaden Hauptbahnhof
2) At the Berchtesgaden HBF, find the bus terminals and take Bus 843 or 831 which will take you to the town of Schoenau am Koenigssee, which you can then easily walk to the lake from there.
Berchtesgaden Salt Mine
Going all the way back to 1193, salt mining (Salzburg literally means “Salt Castle”) began in the Obersalzburg region, particularly here at this mine. Today you can go deep underground to see the Salt Mine at work and how it previously was mined and even go on an underground lake boat ride. One of the highlights of the tour is taking the actual slides that miners once had to take you even deeper underground. It’s a fascinating and fun tour that is quite unique!
Getting To The Salt Mines from Munich
By Car: You can the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines from Munich in less than 2 hours on the A8 HOWEVER, you will have to drive through Austria, which means you will need to get a Vignette for your vehicle in order to drive on the Austrian Autobahn or risk high fines (yes, even for just a short stretch of road)
By Public Transportation: There are no direct routes to get from Munich to the Salt Mines.
1) Use a Bayern Ticket to go from Munich to Freilassing. Transfer and then go to the Berchtesgaden Hauptbahnhof
2) At the Berchtesgaden HBF, find the bus terminals and take Bus 840 in the direction of Salzburg and go about 8-1o minutes and get off at the Salt Mine stop
Tour: You can also take a tour from Munich to Berchtesgaden that will also include the Salt Mines. Book it here.
Bamberg
Bamberg is such a beautiful city that isn’t completely overrun with tourists, making it a great day trip option!
The beauty of Bamberg is in just wandering around. There are plenty of latticed houses to adore, cafes to people watch at, and churches to marvel in. However, beer is really what Bamberg is known for. It has the most breweries per capita in Germany and is known for it’s Rauchbier, or “Smoked Beer” which is….interesting to say the least!
If you are looking for a picture perfect town to adore and love trying out unique beers, Bamberg could be just the perfect Munich Day Trip for you!
Getting To Bamberg from Munich
By Car: Since you will have to drive through both Munich and Nuremberg, pending traffic times, Bamberg can take anywhere from about 2.5-3.5 hours to drive to along either the A3 or the A9.
Note: Even though you pass by Nuremberg, each city deserves its own exploring. If making the trek from Munich, I don’t recommend combining the two into one day trip.
By Public Transportation: By using the Bayern Pass and the regional trains, it will take just under 3 hours with at least one transfer in Nuremberg. You can also take the more expensive, but faster ICE train which will take you just under 2 hours with no transfers.
Romantic Road Day Trip From Munich
When most people are looking at doing the Romantic Road, they are actually looking for picture-perfect towns in Germany, which we’ve covered quite a few of already here. So the reality is, many people are looking for a Munich to Rothenburg day trip. But if I have to be completely honest with you, this isn’t the best use of your time as a day trip from Munich.
If you are truly wanting to do the Romantic Road, then the nearest town for a Romantic Road tour from Munich would be Landsberg. From there, you can pick up the Southern portion of the road and take it all the way down to the end, which is Neuschwanstein. But the whole point of the road is to just take your time and not zip through everything, so that would make for a VERY long day if you were trying to squeeze in the Romantic Road and Neuschwanstein all in one day.
But if it is a Munich to Rothenburg day trip that you are actually looking for, it’s about 2 hours and 40 minutes by car alone, one way. If you don’t mind that kind of drive, then Rothenburg ob der Tauber is such a picturesque (albeit touristy) town that most tourists absolutely adore seeing and wandering around in. However, I think it’s best done as a separate part of your trip outside of Munich if your itinerary allows for that. You’ll want a full down in Rothenburg, so if you do decide to do that as a day trip, just make sure that you leave extra early.
Read my Full Romantic Road Itinerary and Guide Here
PS: Doing the Christmas Markets in Germany? Rothenburg’s Christmas Market is a MUST visit!)
Getting To Rothenburg from Munich
By Car: Taking the A8 and A7, you can be to Rothenburg is about 2 hours and 40 minutes without traffic
By Public Transportation: Even though Rothenburg is still in Bavaria, which means you can use the Bayern Pass, using the ICE trains will get you to Rothenburg much faster, in about 3 hours.
Day Trip From Munich To the Alps
I LOVE escaping down to the Alps for some hiking or skiing. While many of the locations mentioned above are somewhere in the Alps (such as Neuschwanstein, Berchtesgaden, Garmisch, and more) there are SO many other fantastic locations in the mountains if you are looking for an amazing day out hiking from Munich or even a ski day trip from Munich in the winter or just want to get into some nature!
Gorgeous Lakes To Visit as Day Trips From Munich
If you are looking for a fantastic way to escape the city a bit and get some R&R as the locals do, look no further than one of the many beautiful Bavarian lakes, many of which are nestled into the Alps.
Chiemsee
This is a beloved day trip from Munich by locals and tourists alike. Start by going to Prien, which is one of the villages on the shores of the “Bavarian Sea” and hopping on the Chiemseebahn, which is a classic steam locomotive that will transport you to the harbor of the lake. From there, hop on a ferry to explore any of the islands on the lake (yes, the lake is so big that there are islands!)
One of the most famous islands (and things to do) on Chiemsee is to visit the elaborate Herrenchiemsee Palace. If you have gone to Linderhof or Neuschwanstein, then you already know that King Ludwig spared no expenses when building his palaces, and this one is no exception.
Of course, you can also enjoy the waters itself. Bring a swimsuit to dip into the lake, rent a SUP and paddleboard yourself around, or even hire a skipper and go out on a sailboat for a memorable afternoon on the waters.
Getting To Chiemsee from Munich
By Car: On the A8 Autobahn from Munich in the direction of Salzburg, it can take about 1- 1.5 hours by car, pending traffic
By Public Transportation: By using the Bayern Pass and the regional trains, it only takes about 1 hour to reach Prien Chiemsee. From here, you can get to the boats, steam locomotive, and orient yourself to the vast lake.
Tegernsee
For an absolutely delightful and super easy day from Munich, I love heading to Tegernsee. This lake has numerous little villages all dotting the “coast” of the lake, which makes for just the most leisurely stroll doing some window shopping, ice cream eating, and enjoying a cappuccino gazing out over the lake. It is pure, slow, European living at its finest!
Alternatively, there are several hikes, several of which are quite easy and yet provide fantastic views out over the lake.
Getting To Tegernsee from Munich
By Car: On the A8 Autobahn from Munich in the direction of Salzburg, it only takes about 1 hour (or less) from Munich to Tegernsee
By Public Transportation: In just 1 hour by train, you can be at the Tegernsee train station. From here, you can walk to where you want to go around the lake or take a bus to get to the other side easier.
Osterseen
The “Easter Lakes” are actually a series of lakes and a lot of the area makes up a natural reserve. While you don’t have as dramatic of a backdrop of the Alps as some of the other lakes, in the summertime, when the sun hits the lakes at just the right angle, you just might forget you are in Germany and think you are sitting by a Caribbean blue ocean!
The Osterseen makes for a great day trip if you are wanting to get into a bit of nature for an easy hike and away from the crowds.
Getting To Osterseen from Munich
By Car: On the A95 Autobahn you’ll find yourself in the town of Iffeldorf, where you’ll find parking, in less than an hour from Munich
By Public Transportation: You can take the RB66 train to Iffeldorf to get close to the lake and walk the rest of the way.
Starnberger See
Just North of the Osterseen is the vast Starnberg, which is often a day getaway for Munich city dwellers looking for an escape. This is often joked as “Munich’s Swimming Pool” so you can expect plenty of people taking a dip in the lake but you can also take a beautiful ferry ride around the lake or you can easily wander around the path of the lake until you find a perfect picnic spot!
Getting To Starnberg from Munich
By Car: On the A95 Autobahn it will take about 30 minutes (give or take depending on traffic). However, once there, you’ll also have to find parking. Considering how easy it is to get to by public transportation, I highly recommend skipping the car and just making this one of your day trips in Munich with public transport
By Public Transportation: On the RB65 train you can be to the town of Starnberg within about 20 minutes or take the S-Bahn (S6) and be there in about 30 minutes
Walchensee
If you are looking for one of the most beautiful day trips from Munich without many tourists at all, then look no further than Walchensee. What makes this such an attractive day trip from Munich (besides, well the ATTRACTIVE, gorgeous, blue waters of the Walchensee sitting at the foot of the Herzogstand Mountain) is that it is perfect for both those just wanting outstanding Alpine views and those with a bit more athleticism.
If you are just looking for Alpine views with a gorgeous lake, then you can easily take the Walchensee Herzogstandbahn, Kochel a. See. (cable car) to easily zip up to the peak where then you can just kick back and soak it all in effortlessly.
Alternatively, you can take numerous hikes, some as short as 2.5 hours to get to the peak.
Getting To Walchensee from Munich
By Car: On the A95 Autobahn it takes about 1.5 hours (give or take, pending traffic) to the cable car
By Public Transportation: On the RB66 train you can be to Kochel in about 1 hour. From there, you’ll transfer to bus 9608 which will take you over to Walchensee
Day Trips from Munich: Skiing
If you are traveling to Germany in the winter, for example, checking out some of the best Christmas Markets in Germany, then it’s probably no surprise that another favorite thing to do in the winter is to head to one of the many ski resorts close to Munich.
It also probably comes as no surprise that you will want (and need) a full day to do this kind of trip. Most of the ski locations will take about 1.5-2.5 hours to drive to (pending traffic) and it is best to have your own rental car as it would take far too long by public transportation. Some of the best ski resorts near Munich, Germany to look into for a day trip are:
- SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental: A huge resort that has enough runs and slopes for everyone and every ability
- Kitzbühel: Another big resort that offers plenty of variety for skiers and snowboarders of all levels
- St. Johann in Tyrol: A fantastic resort for beginners and moderate levels of skiing and snowboarding
- Zugspitze: As the highest mountain in Germany, it’s no surprise that this is a popular ski resort in Germany. However, it can be quite expensive and also very crowded
- Sudelfed: In just about an hour’s drive from Munich, Sudelfeld is a great ski resort near Munich. However, with its close proximity to the city as well as easier level of slopes, it can often be quite a busy location.
Another option for getting to the mountains to go skiing from Munich is to look into the Ski Bus Munich. For a fee, they will transfer you from Munich to various ski locations near the city.
So there you have it! Some of the absolute best day trips from Munich that you won’t regret taking!
Do you have any favorite day trips from Munich that I missed? Where would you go that isn’t on the list?
