Overview of Day Trips from Munich
Whether you seek hearty Bavarian cuisine and beer or breathtaking views from the top of the Alps, the diverse regions surrounding Munich, Bavaria’s largest city, offer countless opportunities for all types of travelers.
From enchanting and mysterious castles and palaces to beautiful natural retreats within easy reach, you will find that planning the perfect day trip from Munich is a straightforward endeavor.
With Germany’s renowned transportation system and the convenience of car rentals in Europe, accessing ideal excursions and enjoying their unique offerings within a single day is entirely feasible.
To initiate your planning, consider the premier day trips from Munich:
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
This castle is arguably the most renowned in Europe, if not worldwide. Its pastel-colored façade and extensive complex of turrets, battlements, towers, and spires exemplify the ideal of a fairytale castle.
It served as the inspiration for Walt Disney’s iconic castles in various Disney parks.
Located less than two hours from Munich, this realm of princes and princesses features a magnificent edifice that is lavish both inside and outside.
Visitors can anticipate a magnificent Throne Room and exquisite décor influenced by romantic literature and opera.
Moreover, the stunning vistas of the Alps from one of the many towers add to the allure.
2. Linderhof Palace
The visionary behind Neuschwanstein Castle, King Ludwig II, had another preferred location: Linderhof Palace.
Situated in the alpine woods near the mountains of Neuschwanstein, this elegantly decorated palace was intended as the king’s hunting lodge in the late 19th century.
Like numerous royal structures of the period, Linderhof showcases extreme luxury, featuring opulent wall hangings, intricately carved fountains, and splendid gardens.
Do not miss the Hall of Mirrors, the Tapestry Chambers, and the famous Venus Grotto.
Notably, combined tours that include both Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle are available and can be completed within a single day.
3. Herrenchiemsee
Situated on an island in Bavaria’s largest lake, the royal complex of Herrenchiemsee is approximately 60km from Munich and is an extraordinary site to visit.
Though partially completed, the palace grounds boast impressive features such as the State Staircase, the Great Hall of Mirrors, and King Ludwig’s Small Apartment.
The gardens are adorned with remarkable fountains and sculptures, while two museums located on the estate, the King Ludwig II Museum and the Augustinian Monastery, are filled with artifacts from the king’s life and valuable antique furniture.
4. Salzburg
Travel to the Austrian border and enter one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations, Salzburg, set against a backdrop of alpine peaks and characterized by its Baroque architecture and romantic neighborhoods.
Known as the birthplace of the renowned composer Mozart, Salzburg is rich in attractions related to the illustrious musician.
With its picturesque winding streets, charming Old Town, and stunning natural beauty, it’s clear why this city served as the backdrop for Mozart’s The Sound of Music.
Be sure to allocate time to explore Salzburg’s cathedral and the remarkable St Peter’s Abbey.
5. Nuremberg
One of Bavaria’s oldest cities, the ancient settlement of Nuremberg has witnessed numerous significant artistic and cultural events since the 14th and 15th centuries, with many traces still visible today.
The city holds immense artistic value; consequently, most Gothic buildings and churches have undergone meticulous restoration following World War II. As you stroll along the well-preserved city walls, you can explore the castle situated in the city center, which offers magnificent views from its elevated position on a hill.
6. Ingolstadt
Ideal for exploration on foot, Ingolstadt’s pedestrian-friendly design features broad walkways and boulevards, allowing visitors to appreciate its historic buildings, each exuding unique beauty.
Surrounded by preserved remnants of medieval fortifications, notable highlights include Rathausplatz, the impressive Herzogsschloss, and the Kreuztor.
Among the many wonders throughout the town, ensure you allocate time to visit the Minister of Our Lady Church, housing the largest and stunning stained glass window in Bavaria, installed in 1527.
7. The Schleissheim Palace Complex
Home to three stunning palaces, the 18th-century Schleissheim Palace and Park is conveniently located just 20km from central Munich, making its beautiful attractions easily accessible via public transport or by car.
The Neues Schloss is the largest of the palaces, connected by pavilions that capture visitors’ attention through their harmonious blend of Baroque, Italian, and Rococo styles.
Highlights include the Entrance Hall and the Grand Staircase Hall.
Equally impressive is the Baroque garden of Schleissheim Park, which has retained its charm since 1720.
8. Passau
Renowned for its remarkable skyline, Passau features a captivating blend of Italian-style architecture and Venetian-inspired houses lining the scenic River Danube.
Located near the Austrian border, this town is an idyllic choice for a riverside retreat.
Passau’s old town is beautifully arranged to enhance proximity to the water, with cobblestoned pathways leading from the hill to the river.
Do not miss the Cathedral of St Stephen and the pedestrianized shopping street Ludwigstrasse, offering a variety of Austrian and Bavarian products and delicacies.
9. Rothenburg
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is celebrated as one of Europe’s most impeccably preserved towns, undoubtedly one of the globe’s most picturesque destinations.
Charming streets lined with pastel-toned, fairytale timbered structures are complemented by an array of stunning churches.
A popular stop along the renowned Romantic Road, Rothenburg attracts visitors globally who delight in exploring its postcard-perfect streets.
10. Berchtesgaden and Eagle’s Nest
Nestled within the remarkable scenery of Berchtesgaden National Park, the town of Berchtesgaden is a popular destination for travelers seeking breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.
The town is home to a historic palace that dates back to the 1100s and the Wittelsbach dynasty.
Also commonly visited is the prominent Eagle’s Nest, a mountain retreat originally built for Hitler, which rises to an elevation of 1834 meters.
Berchtesgaden effectively combines stunning alpine landscapes with captivating history, making guided tours and convenient transport from Munich very beneficial for visitors.
11. Mount Eckbauer
Mount Eckbauer is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, featuring a large Olympic ski jump that is still operational.
Delivering extraordinary views of the snow-covered Alps, this location is best experienced from the captivating gondolas of the Eckbauerbahn, which have been in service since the 1936 Winter Olympics. Visitors can even take a toboggan down one of the public slopes instead of returning via gondola.
Appropriately situated is the gemütlich Berggasthof, where you can indulge in authentic Bavarian cuisine complemented by refreshing beer.
12. Chiemsee
Chiemsee, the largest lake in Bavaria, is conveniently accessible in under two hours from Munich via public transportation.
Its tranquil waters, set against majestic mountains, create excellent photographic opportunities under both sunny and cloudy conditions.
A major highlight of the lake is the Prienavera center, a tailored facility for wellness and recreation featuring both indoor and outdoor pools with panoramic lake views, along with unique lakeside saunas.
If relaxation stirs up an appetite, enjoy a meal at one of the charming lakeside restaurants before returning to the city.
13. Walchensee
For additional alpine lake enchantment, venture about an hour from Munich to the captivating depths of Walchensee, one of Germany’s deepest lakes.
A variety of activities awaits those visiting, ensuring ample entertainment whether you choose to surf, sail, dive, or fish in its waters.
To truly appreciate the lake’s depth, ascend to the surrounding mountains for a view into its clear waters.
While in the mountains, you can also experience numerous hiking trails, including the picturesque pine-lined route through Mittenwald.
14. Partnach Gorge
Designated as a natural monument due to its stunning visual appeal, the Partnach Gorge offers an exciting adventure along winding pathways that lead you through cliffs and past waterfalls.
Ensure you wear attire that you do not mind getting a bit wet!
15. Regensburg
Less than two hours from Munich lies a world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, beautifully situated on the banks of the River Danube.
This remarkable city, with origins tracing back to 179 AD, thrived from the established trade routes from the Stone Age and is rich in history and stunning architecture.
