Best Day Trips from Munich: Top Getaways Near the City

Munich is a city that captivates visitors with its culture, tradition, and Alpine landscapes. But anyone who stays longer or is simply looking for a change of scenery will quickly realise that the real adventure often begins just a few kilometres outside the city limits. Romantic castles, charming towns, and idyllic lakes await you around the Bavarian capital, each of them assuring a memorable day trip from Munich.

Whether by train, car, or even bicycle, the day trips from Munich are diverse, varied, and allow you to experience Bavaria from a whole new perspective. If you are searching for things to do around Munich or want to discover the best places to visit near Munich Germany, you will find countless options for culture, history, and nature in this article. Just keep on reading!

Practical Information Before Your Trip

• Getting there: Many destinations can be reached quickly by train or regional rail services from the Munich Central Station. Travelling by car gives you flexibility and allows you to combine several places near Munich to visit in one day.
• Getting around the city: You will usually find good bus and train connections locally, especially if you’re travelling to nearby Bavarian towns or taking popular touristic routes.
• Best time to travel: Summer is ideal for swimming in Alpine lakes and nature getaways. Autumn attracts visitors with festivals and golden landscapes, while in winter it is worth taking short day trips from Munich to the mountains to ski.

Neuschwanstein Castle – A Fairy Tale Comes to Life

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Germany's most famous landmarks and, for many, the epitome of romantic architecture. In just around 1 hour and 45 minutes by car, you can travel from Munich to the Allgäu region and enjoy the views of this fairy-tale palace.

Even the first glimpse of the white towers rising above the treetops is an experience in itself. Inside, the ornate chambers, colourful murals, and magnificent halls transport you into a fairytale world.

Tip: If you have extra time, take a walk to the Marienbrücke bridge, which offers the most beautiful panoramic view of the castle.

Without doubt, Neuschwanstein is one of the best places near Munich for a magical day out.

 

Salzburg – A Touch of Mozart and Alpine Flair

A short hop across the border brings you to a city that combines culture and nature like no other: Salzburg. In just about an hour and a half, you can reach Mozart's hometown, which delights visitors with its baroque old town, narrow lanes, and the mighty Hohensalzburg Fortress towering above.

A stroll through the Mirabell Gardens, a coffee in the historic Getreidegasse, or a tour of Mozart's birthplace – Salzburg assures a day full of activities. And yet the city is small enough to explore at your leisure in a single day. Many Munich locals love Salzburg not only for the cultural attractions but also for its culinary treats: Kaiserschmarrn, Salzburger Nockerl, and hearty Austrian specialities make the day complete.

Planning a trip to Salzburg and want to stay cost effective? Check our guide on Top 15 Free Things to do in Salzburg.

 

Regensburg – History on the Danube

Head north from Munich and in just over an hour you’ll find Regensburg, a city with centuries of stories behind every corner. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has an old town that feels like stepping back in time. Walk across the 12th-century Stone Bridge, look up at the twin spires of the Gothic cathedral, or simply wander the cobbled streets until you land in one of the small squares lined with cafés.

What makes Regensburg special is the mix of medieval charm and student life. Beer gardens by the river, boutique shops, and plenty of outdoor seating give the city a lively, youthful feel. If you’re searching for beautiful places near Munich that combine heritage with a modern pulse, Regensburg is hard to beat.

 

Chiemsee – Bavaria’s Own Sea

About an hour east of the city lies Chiemsee, Bavaria’s largest lake and a favourite escape for both locals and tourists. Known as the “Bavarian Sea”, it’s the kind of spot where you can choose between total relaxation and an active day out.

Ferries shuttle across the water to the islands. On Herreninsel, the grand Herrenchiemsee Palace showcases King Ludwig II’s love of opulence, inspired by Versailles. Fraueninsel feels more intimate, with its monastery, flower-filled gardens, and tiny cafés that seem to invite you to slow down.

If you like keeping your days active, cycling around the lake or trying your hand at sailing are popular options in this area. For anyone looking for nature getaways near Munich, Chiemsee ticks every box.

 

Augsburg – A Trading City with a Modern Edge

Jump on a train and in less than an hour you’ll be in Augsburg, one of the oldest cities in Germany. Old doesn’t mean boring, though. History greets you on almost every street corner.

Here, the Fuggerei, built in the 1500s, still houses residents today and tells the story of the famous Fugger family. The entire city is filled with historical artefacts! But Augsburg isn’t stuck in the past. Its cobbled streets are lined with artisanal coffee shops, small galleries showcase modern art, and students keep the city buzzing long after the sun goes down.

Augsburg is one of the best places to visit near Munich if you want something that blends old-world charm with a lively, youthful vibe.

Tip: If you’re travelling with kids, don’t miss the Augsburger Puppenkiste, a puppet theatre that has been entertaining generations.

 

Lake Starnberg – Quick Escape with Alpine Views

If you are short on time, Lake Starnberg makes for an easy getaway. It’s just thirty minutes south of the city, yet it feels like another world. The lake sparkles, the air is crisp, and on clear days the Alps line the horizon.

What can you do here?

• Cycle the path along the shoreline.
• Take a leisurely boat trip.
• Settle into a lakeside beer garden and just enjoy the view.

The lake also comes with a touch of drama: it was here that King Ludwig II met his mysterious end. But history aside, Lake Starnberg is simply a relaxing spot and one of the best places near Munich for reconnecting with the nature.

 

Tegernsee – Alpine Idyll

Lake Tegernsee is Bavaria at its most picture-perfect. Imagine green mountains, clear water, and a traditional beer garden by the shore. Reaching it takes about an hour, so it’s one of the easiest day trips from Munich.

Summer calls for hiking, swimming, and sailing. In winter, visitors are invited to ski. And then there’s the Bräustüberl Tegernsee – a must for anyone who enjoys hearty Bavarian food washed down with local beer.

Tegernsee offers everything at once: nature, relaxation, tradition. That’s why so many people consider it one of the best trips from Munich.

From Regensburg’s medieval streets to lakes like Chiemsee, Starnberg, and Tegernsee, the best day trips from Munich Germany cover every mood and season. Some trips are all about culture, others about fresh air and mountain views. The good news? None of them are more than two hours away.

Safe travels and see you in Munich!

Book your stay at Leonardo Hotels in Munich and set off on your Bavarian adventures with comfort and the perfect location.