Munich, with its rich history and vibrant culture, serves as the perfect epicenter for exploring some of Europe’s most picturesque destinations. Within just a few hours, you can journey to charming towns, serene alpine lakes, historic castles, and breathtaking mountain landscapes. From the fairy-tale palaces of Ettal to the charming alpine city of Innsbruck, the turquoise waters of Eibsee, and the serene beauty of Ramsau Hintersee, these day trips offer a blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery for travelers of all ages.
Berchtesgaden National Park
By Paul D’Souza of Paulmarina
Berchtesgaden National Park in the Bavarian Alps is a stunning place filled with crystal-clear lakes, rugged peaks, and peaceful valleys. It’s a fantastic spot to reconnect with nature. One of the park’s top highlights is the Eagle’s Nest, which offers incredible views, and the calm Königssee lake, perfect for a scenic boat ride.
For a taste of Bavarian cuisine, hike to the Gasthaus Vorderbrand for hearty local dishes with mountain views or try the fish at St. Bartholomä at the lake. In Berchtesgaden town, wander through the charming streets to find local cafes and artisan shops.
Families can explore the salt mines, a fun underground adventure for all ages. For adults, there are options like canyoning or simply relaxing at the Watzmann Therme spa. Don’t skip visiting the Malerwinkel in the small village of Ramsau and in the vicinity is also the stunning Wimmbach gorge.
If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden is a great choice. This alpine retreat combines comfort with eco-friendly practices, offering cozy rooms, delicious dining, and views that will leave you in awe. Berchtesgaden National Park is a gem for any traveler seeking nature, local culture, and a bit of luxury at the same time!
Bregenz
By Zoe of Together In Switzerland
For a beautiful day trip from Munich, consider heading across the border to Bregenz, Austria. Located at the east corner of Lake Constance, the city of Bregenz is a beautiful day out for all ages.
There are many activities for families, such as exploring the old town and taking a stroll along the lakeside promenade. The historical city characteristics are visible with the buildings and architecture, including the cobblestone streets. There are little boutique stores throughout and plenty of cozy restaurants for a bite to eat. For somewhere special, visit Petrus Cafe Brasserie.
Walk through the old town with the city’s 1 hour route that you can follow as a self tour. This route includes the highlights of the city hall, the church of St. Gallus, the Capuchin monastery and following the medieval walls. Alternatively check the official tours for more routes.
Another activity for all is to take the panoramic cable car up to Pfänder. Here at the peak of 1,064 meters above sea level, there is a fun Alpine Wild Animal park. This is open all year round and free to visit. The views are also amazing looking down to the lake and Bregenz. We recommend visiting the restaurant and playground area too here. Whereas for those looking to explore, check the hiking routes from the peak. There’s quite a lot to choose from, including a scenic route heading back down into Bregenz.
If you wish to extend your stay from a day trip to an overnighter, consider booking a night at Hotel Messmer. It’s a 4 star hotel perfectly located in the city center.
Eibsee
By Soujanya Rai
A day trip to Eibsee from Munich offers a fun and idyllic escape into the Bavarian Alps. Located near Zugspitze, the highest point in Germany, Eibsee, one of the most beautiful lakes in Germany, is known for its turquoise waters and marvellous mountain views.
Visitors can rent a paddleboard or kayak at the rental center at the start of the lake, or enjoy a scenic hike around its 8 km loop trail that winds through lush greenery and showcases beautiful views from all angles. For stunning snowscapes and winter activities, the cable car ride to the top of Zugspitze offers incredible panoramic vistas over the Alps and there are a bunch of activities at the top. Keep in mind to purchase tickets in advance though.
Restaurant Eibsee Pavillon, next to the boat rental kiosk, serves traditional Bavarian fare with a fabulous lakeside view. Another option, Restaurant Seehaus Eibsee, provides a slightly more upscale dining experience with regional dishes, and is especially lovely for a sunset meal. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay to extend your visit, the Eibsee Hotel is an excellent choice. Situated right by the lake, this upscale hotel offers spa facilities, private beach access, and refined rooms, making it perfect for those who prefer to relax in comfort.
If you’re staying at Eibsee overnight then it’s worth checking out the famous town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen nearby. The Partnach-klamm gorge and Olympic ski jump are also top attractions nearby. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a night, Eibsee delivers a memorable experience.
Ettal
By Natalie of Camping Kiddos
Located about an hour south of Munich, Ettal is a beautiful Bavarian town close to the Germany-Austrian border. Known for its authentic German charm and historic buildings, Ettal makes for a great day trip for anyone who’d like to get out of the city for a bit.
Your first stop in Ettal needs to be at Schloss Linderhof, the smallest–and favorite–palace of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Tucked away from prying eyes, this palace was Ludwig’s retreat of choice, even as he built nearby Neuschwanstein Castle. Take a tour to learn about Ludwig’s eccentricities, such as his dining table invention that could be raised and lowered from the kitchen so he never had to see anyone else while he was eating. The grounds are equally beautiful and deserve plenty of time to wander around.
The second must-see attraction in Ettal is the 14th century Ettal Abbey. The chapel is a Rococo era masterpiece filled with gilded paintings and ornate stonework. Explore the rest of the grounds, which are immaculately kept, and grab a bite to eat at the onsite cafe. Be sure to stop by the abbey’s shop, which sells local cheeses and beers brewed at the monastery.
When you’re done sightseeing, head across the street to check into the Klosterhotel Ettal Ludwig der Bayer, a luxury hotel in the heart of town with a spa and large rooms. There is also a restaurant on site if you get hungry, and an indoor pool if your kids need to burn off some energy before bed.
Innsbruck
If you’re seeking an unforgettable day trip from Munich, Innsbruck, Austria, offers the perfect blend of alpine charm, history, and adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps and just over a two-hour train ride from Munich, this picturesque city captivates with its dramatic mountain scenery and rich cultural heritage.
Start your exploration in Innsbruck’s Old Town, a treasure trove of medieval and baroque architecture. Stroll along its cobblestone streets to admire landmarks like the Golden Roof, a 15th-century structure adorned with over 2,600 gilded tiles. History enthusiasts will love touring the Imperial Palace (Hofburg), where opulent rooms reflect the grandeur of Austria’s imperial past. Don’t miss the colorful Maria-Theresien-Strasse, lined with shops, cafes, and spectacular mountain views.
For lunch, indulge in hearty Tyrolean cuisine at Stiftskeller, known for its traditional dishes and cozy ambiance, or enjoy al fresco dining with alpine vistas at Lichtblick. For a true taste of Innsbruck, be sure to book a tour in advance with Innsbruck Food Tours.
Afterward, ascend the Nordkette cable car, which takes you from the city center to breathtaking alpine heights in minutes. From the summit, soak in panoramic views of the valley below, explore scenic hiking trails, or relax with a coffee at the mountaintop restaurant.
Families will love the Alpine Zoo, the highest zoo in Europe, home to unique mountain wildlife. Adventurous visitors can try skiing in winter or mountain biking and paragliding in summer. For a serene end to the day, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Inn, framed by Innsbruck’s iconic pastel-colored buildings. You may also consider visiting Swarovski Crystal Worlds, just outside of Innsbruck and easily accessible by a bus shuttle.
Extend your visit with a stay at the Grand Hotel Europa, a luxury retreat offering exceptional comfort and central convenience. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and outdoor activities, Innsbruck is an inspiring escape that will leave you enchanted.
Neuschwanstein Castle
An hour and a half’s drive away from Munich (or a two and half hour train ride) in countryside of southern Bavaria is Neuschwanstein Castle. A castle built by King Ludwig II, also known as ‘Mad King Ludwig’, this iconic castle is also located a 15-minute hike away from where he grew up, in Hohenschwangau Castle. Neuschwanstein is most famous perhaps for being the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and is a marvel of 19th-century Romantic architecture.
During your visit, tour the castle’s lavish interior, filled with ornate murals and intricate details that reflect King Ludwig II’s passion for art and mythology. Don’t miss the stunning views of the surrounding forests and lakes from Marienbrücke, the picturesque bridge nearby.
For lunch, stop at Alpenrose am See for Bavarian specialties with a scenic backdrop. If time allows, be sure to explore Hohenschwangau Castle, or take a stroll around Alpsee, a serene alpine lake perfect for photos.
For those wishing to extend their visit, the nearby Hotel Müller Hohenschwangau offers cozy accommodations with panoramic views and top-tier dining.
Top Tip
Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and layers. Where comfortable hiking boots or sneakers. Take your time to explore the landscape around the castle and to give you the opportunity to see the castle from various angles.
Passau
By Monika Fuchs
If you’re looking for an enchanting day trip from Munich, Passau is a fantastic choice. Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” this Bavarian town is where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet, creating a truly picturesque landscape. It’s just a two-hour train ride away, making it an easy day trip with plenty to experience.
When you arrive, you’ll be charmed by Passau’s Old Town with its colorful baroque architecture. Start your day with a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of the world’s largest pipe organs – the sound is breathtaking! For lunch, we recommend Café Kowalski for its cozy atmosphere and delightful regional dishes, or head to the riverside restaurant Heilig-Geist-Stiftschenke if you’re in the mood for a traditional Bavarian meal with a view.
Passau is also a wonderful place to explore by boat. You can take a scenic river cruise and see the city from a new perspective. For families, the Veste Oberhaus fortress is a great stop with panoramic views and interactive exhibits.
If you decide to extend your stay, we suggest the luxurious Hotel Residenz Passau, right along the river, with elegant rooms and exceptional service. It’s ideal if you’re looking to add a touch of indulgence to your trip.
Overall, Passau offers a mix of history, culture, and relaxation – perfect for a memorable escape from Munich.
Ramsau Hintersee
By Crystal Lin of Blue Canoe Travel
Not far from the iconic Königssee is the beautiful Hintersee of Ramsau. Located in Berchtesgaden National Park, about a 2-hour drive from Munich, Hintersee is a small yet extremely beautiful and romantic lake. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, Hintersee can be even more picturesque than Konigsee with nice weather.
You can take a stroll around the entire lake in about an hour. You can also rent a canoe or kayak, as we strongly recommend, and admire the breathtaking scenery from a totally different angle. We visited in spring and saw many families swimming and playing by the lake as well.
We also want to highlight the hotel Gasthaus – Pension Seeklause. They sit right in front of Hintersee and offer a variety of delicious classic German dishes. You get to enjoy an amazing meal with tremendous lake view.
After spending time at Hintersee, many people choose to hike through Zauberwald, the magic forest, which will take you to Pfarrkirche St. Sebastian, a cute church by the stream. The hike is mostly flat and takes about an hour. Walk through the forest, listen to the stream and wind, pass through cute cabins and restaurants. The hike through Zauberwald is truly relaxing. You might even see a couple of cows roaming around!
Most people spend about half a day around the Hintersee area. If time permits, you can also combine this day trip with Königssee, Jennerbahn, or the nearby Wimbachbrücke.
Salzburg
By Lisi of Escaping Worlds
Salzburg is a beautiful Austrian city with a fascinating old town, only 1 hour 30 minutes by train from Munich (depending on train connections). The historic center of Salzburg is a UNESCO site and well worth a visit. The Mirabellgarten, the Marko-Feingold-Steg, leads you from the train station into the centre. Getreidegasse is a shopping street and the birthplace of Mozart. You can visit his birthplace, which is now a museum. The old town is a pedestrian zone, which makes it easy to explore on foot. It is very easy to travel eco-friendly in Salzburg.
For refreshment between sightseeing, stop by the Afro Cafe, where you can enjoy high-quality, fair-trade coffee and tea.
The highlight of Salzburg is a visit to Hohensalzburg Fortress, either by cable car or on foot. From there you can enjoy fabulous views and learn more about Salzburg‘s history.
If you are looking for an activity for the little ones, there are two museums that are perfect for children: The Salzburg Toy Museum and the Natural History Museum.
Hotel Schloss Mönchstein is a great place to stay. It overlooks the city and has an amazing spa area.
If you are looking for unique restaurants that use local organic ingredients, try The Keep or The Heart of Joy.
On the way back to the train station is the arte Hotel Salzburg. Its Sky Bar is the perfect place to end the day.