best places to visit near munich germany

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 14 Places Near Munich You Must Visit For An Unforgettable Journey In 2024

While there are reasons aplenty to rave about Munich as a tourist destination, we also love the city because it lets you travel to other cities and towns in Europe, especially in Germany and Austria in a jiffy. The European Rail Network makes it possible to assume Munich as a base camp and explore some wonderful cities from here convenient and comfortable. We have listed down our bets for the best places near Munich if you want to take a weekend break from the city or are preparing your EuroTrip itinerary:

14 Beautiful Places Near Munich

There are quite a lot of places near Munich. While some of them are in the country, others are in neighboring countries like Austria and the Czech Republic. You can even find some of the tourist places near Munich airport. Choose the ones you would want to visit from the list below!

• Zugspitze Mountain Peak
• Neuschwanstein
• Linderhof Palace
• Herrenchiemsee
• Berchtesgaden and Eagle’s Nest
• Schleissheim Palace Complex

1. Salzburg

Image Credit: Zairon for Wikimedia Commons

If you have worshipped the popular musical ‘Sound Of Music’, we don’t need to say anything more to convince you to make a stop at Salzburg during your time in the region. Salzburg is located in Austria and is one of the most popular places near Munich that people love to visit. There is no dearth of tourist attractions here and you will find everything from an ancient fortress and palace to a modern museum and cafes. It is one of the best places to go near Munich. Salzburg is popularly known for being the home of music maestro, Mozart. Make sure you visit the Augustiner Monks Brewery during your time in Salzburg.

Location: Austria Distance from Munich: 144 km Time Taken: 1 hour 40 minutes

Must Read: Day Trips From Munich

Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Europe, from Paris to the Venice canals and from the Greek islands to the Swiss alps. Book customized packages by expert agents on TravelTriangle. Inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing and meals. Best holiday experience Guaranteed. Book Now

Magnificent Switzerland Holiday 6D/5N Package @ Rs 69,999

Plan your trip today!

Magnificent Europe Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 70,975

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

France & Switzerland Tour Package 8D/7N @ Rs 90,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Scintillating Spain & Portugal Tour 11D/10N @ Rs 101,150

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

6 Country Europe Tour Package 12D/11N @ Rs 118,650

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Rothenburg

Image Credit: Naturliebhaberin for Wikimedia Commons

You might not have heard of this quaint little German village of Rothenburg much but if you are looking for cities close to Munich by train, you should definitely consider stopping here during your travels. It seems like the time in this city stopped in the Medieval times and the authentic and traditional vibe of this city makes it an intriguing visit. This place is famous for day trips around Munich. One element that perfectly captures this vibe is the Old City Wall, which stands upright even today and offers stunning views of the magical city that Rothenberg is. There is a lot to do here such as visiting the Imperial City Museum or the Medieval Criminal Museum.

Location: Bavaria, Germany Distance from Munich: 250 km Time Taken: 2 hours 40 minutes

3. Nuremberg

Image Credit: User:Kolossos for Wikimedia Commons

Hearing of the city of Nuremberg brings to the mind devastating tales of the Holocaust because of the famous Nuremberg trials. However, the city has a lot to be explored other than their trials and parade grounds. For a city that is a little over 1000 years old, Nuremberg manages to find the right balance between its traditions and modernity making it an excellent tourist destination. There is a huge magnetic castle in the city center, an art museum but most of all, the winding paths lined by half-timber houses in different shades are a delight to look at. It is one of the best places to visit near Munich in winter.

Location: Germany Distance from Munich: 168 kilometres Time Taken: 60 Minutes

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Munich

4. Zugspitze Mountain Peak

Image Credit: buzzard525 for Wikimedia Commons

One of the most touristy places near Munich Germany is the Zugspitze Mountain Peak, and is popular as the tallest peak of Germany! It is located at an altitude of 9717 feet and offers vistas so stunning you wouldn’t believe your eyes. According to facts, one can see for upto 155 miles along the horizon on a clear day. The peak is located on the borders of Austria and Germany and hence, you can be in two countries while on the peak. Another interesting peak nearby is the Alpspitze which is one of the best hiking places near Munich.

Location: Germany Distance from Munich: 117 kilometres to Zugspitze Time Taken: 80 Minutes by train and a cable car lift

Image Credit: C.Stadler/Bwag for Wikimedia Commons

Although Passau is no Dubai, it has received a lot of attention for its mesmerizing skyline. Passau looks (and feels) very similar to Venice because of the Italian architecture and houses that are built with views of the river Danube. This town is situated on the Austrian border and makes for a perfect getaway, especially for those who are looking for a townscape with water. No matter where you are in Passau, it always feels like you are very close to the water. Apart from the stunning cobbled lanes, there is a lot to explore in this town as well such as the Cathedral of St Stephen and the famous shopping street of Ludwigstrasse. It is one of the best options for places near Munich airport.

Location: Germany Distance from Munich: 192 kilometres Time Taken: 80 Minutes

Suggested Read: Tourist Places In Munich

6. Innsbruck

Image Credit: Mrkstvns for Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for undiscovered places to stay near Munich, Innsbruck is a lovely option that is located in the foothills of the Alps. The perennially pleasant weather makes it a great option during both summers and winters. It is the capital city of the Tyrol and is known for its unique architecture and culture. The people here have a distinctively different dialect so don’t get confused if you don’t understand a few things that the locals say. The food here is delicious and we don’t know why you need any more reasons to visit Innsbruck!

Location: Austria Distance from Munich: 162 kilometres Time Taken: 120 Minutes

7. Neuschwanstein

Image Credit: Cezary Piwowarski for Wikimedia Commons

It is popularly referred to as Ludwig’s fairytale castle and is an absolute delight to visit. It is built on a hill above the village, Hohenschwangau and is one of the most popular as well as highly recommended castles in Europe. In fact, you would be excited to hear that this is the castle that Walt Disney used as the set for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in the popular Disneyland movie. Ludwig built the castle in an ode to Wagner and even named it after his opera, the Swan Knight. One must explore The Singer’s Hall which is built on the fourth floor and displays some of the most exquisite works by Wagner. If you are a castle lover, you will be delighted to know that there are two other very popular castles nearby making the town of Füssen a great tourist destination from Munich.

Location: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, 87645 Schwangau, Germany Distance from Munich: 117 km Time Taken: 2 hours

Suggested Read: Safaris In Germany

Image Credit: tookapic for Pixabay

If you find a few of the places mentioned above not mainstream enough for you to visit, you could always plan a visit to Vienna. It is undoubtedly one of the most stunning cities in Europe and is replete with architecture, culture, music and great cuisine. The streets are lined with cafes and restaurants, each unique in its own way. There is no dearth of tourist attractions here, whether you want to visit museums and art galleries or stunning architecture and natural attractions. The capital city of Austria is definitely one of the most interesting cities close to Munich by train.

Location: Austria Distance from Munich: 430 kilometres Time Taken: 1 hour via air

Image Credit: Jorge Royan for Wikimedia Commons

Before being one of the best European cities near Munich, Prague is one of the most remarkable cities in the world. Yes, that is how acclaimed this city is as a tourist destination. Prague has everything that makes a vacation memorable from art, culture, and history to cafes, food, and beer. There is something in the cobblestoned streets here and the warmth of the locals that makes us want to visit this city again and again. It is also a great honeymoon destination because of the romantic riverside setting and beautiful bridges.

Location: Czech Republic Distance from Munich: 380 kilometres Time Taken: 4 hours

Suggested Read: Water Sports In Germany

Image Credit: Schlaier for Wikimedia Commons

Dachau is a small town that is infamously known for the location of the barbaric and inhuman concentration camp. It is located hardly 17 kilometers northwest of Munich and has been converted into a memorial site today that honor lives of more than 40,000 people who passed away here. It is popular for its eighteenth century Schloss and you should definitely make a stop here during your time in Munich. There are many tours organized from Munich to the memorial site in Dachau and you could book one for a guided tour.

Location: Bavaria, Germany Distance from Munich: 30 kilometres Time Taken: 30 minutes

11. Linderhof Palace

Image Credit: Diego Delso for Wikimedia Commons

This palace is located in the southwestern region of Munich, close to Ettal and border of Austria. Linderhof Palace was established in the year 1878 and was admired by King Ludwig ll. This palace once used to be a hunting lodge with Rococo theme and highly furnished rooms. This palace is sure one of the most scenic places near Munich. During the tour of this palace, visitors observe the awe-striking highlights like Hall of Mirrors, Eastern and Western Tapestry Chambers, Audience Chamber, and more.

Location: Linderhof 12, 82488 Ettal Distance from Munich: 96.5 km Time Taken: 1 hour 16 minutes

Suggested Read: Munich In Summer

12. Herrenchiemsee

Image Credit: Guido Radig for Wikimedia Commons

This is a palace complex that became functional in the year 1878. Located on Herreninsel island, this complex is known for the mesmerizing state staircas, hall of mirrors, state bedroom, and the small apartment with Rococo motif. As the complex became functional under King Ludwig ll, there are various artifacts based on his life that can be found here.

Location: 83209 Herrenchiemsee Distance from Munich: 89.6 km Time Taken: 1 hour

13. Berchtesgaden and Eagle's Nest

Image Credit: Cezary for Wikimedia Commons

This town is one of the most famous Bavarian Alps tourist destinations. Enveloped within the mountains, this town is known for its intriguing landmarks like palace of Wittelsbach dynasty. Tourists mainly visit this region to witness the Eagle’s Nest - a mountain refuge upon Mount Kehlstein established by Hitler. Undoubtedly, this spot can be considered to be one of the tourist places near Munich.

Location: Berchtesgaden, 83471, Germany Distance from Munich: 154 km Time Taken: 1 hour 40 minutes

Suggested Read: Munich Travel Guide

14. Schleissheim Palace Complex

This is a complex that comprises three beautiful palaces - the Schleissheim Palace and park, The New Palace, and Schloss Lustheim. Located 19 kilometers from Munich City Centre, Schleissheim Palace is a sight that reflect the significance of early 18th century. The New Palace is 330 meter long and has Late Baroque and Rococo themed interior setting. The older palace, Schloss Lustheim was established in the year 1688 and depicts the style of Italian Garden Palace. This complex is definitely one of the places of interest near Munich.

Location: 85764 Oberschleißheim Distance from Munich: 20.6 km Time Taken: 23 minutes

Further Read: Munich Nightlife

The above 14 listicles are all exciting and intriguing places near Munich that you should consider visiting during your time in the region. Book your packages from TravelTriangle for a memorable experience. Thus, on your next trip to Munich , do not even consider skipping these places, as you will definitely miss out on a lot. So, why wait? Get packing, right away!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Places Near Munich

What is the best time to visit Munich?

Munich is a destination that can be visited all year long, the best time depends on what one wants to experience. For those who wish to visit open-air cafes, March to May is the best time. But for those who wish to be a part of the biggest beer fest in the world during Oktoberfest should plan to visit Munich from September to November.

What are some places to visit near Munich?

Some of the amazing places that one should not miss out near Munich are Innsbruck, Vienna, Prague, Dachau, Passau, Salzburg, Nuremberg, and Linderhof Palace.

How far is Prague from Munich?

Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic that is located around 380 kilometers from Munich. It takes around 4 hours to cover the distance between Prague and Munich.

What are some things to do near Munich?

There is no dearth of things to do near Munich with the top experiences being devouring breakfast at the famous Schneider Brauhaus, surfing, driving a BMW, shopping, listening to live music, strolling around the Glockenbachviertel, and much more.

Where can I go to from Munich by train?

There are many places that one can travel to from Munich with Neuschwanstein Castle, Salzburg, Rothenburg, Berchtesgaden, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Zugspitze Peak, and Herrenchiemsee New Palace being a few of them.

What are some top shopping spots in Munich?

Some great spots for shopping in Munich are Edited, BoYco, Kaufingertor, Kripperlmarkt, Maximilianstrasse, Hoffstatt, Kauf Dich Glücklich, and Riem Arcaden amongst many.

What should one eat when in Munich?

Some of the must-eat dishes in Munich are Spätzle, Schweinshaxe, Weisswurst, Pretzels, Schmalz, Ethiopian, Schnitzel, and Germknödel.

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

People Also Read:

Europe For Couples Trip To Europe In May Family Trip To Europe

Abhijeet Roy

Places to Visit In India

• 30 Best Places To Visit In Bangalore In...
• 64 Best Places To Visit In Kerala For...
• 39 Best Places To Visit In October In...
• 101 Places To Visit In India Before You...
• 20 Places To Visit In Sakleshpur In 2024...
• 35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In...
• 32 Best Places To Visit In January In...
• 20 Best Places To Visit In Meghalaya For...
• 12 Places To Visit In Punjab To Witness...
• Unravel Places To Visit In Uttarakhand For A...
• 26 Best Places To Visit In Jammu For...
• 29 Places To Visit In Monsoon In India...
• Best Places To Visit In August In India...
• 36 Beautiful Places To Visit In Kashmir One...
• 55 Fascinating Places To Visit In Hyderabad In...
• 35 Ultimate Places To Visit In July In...
• 72 Places To Visit In Rajasthan In 2024
• 42 Best Places To Visit In Pondicherry In...
• 33 Spectacular Places To Visit In Mumbai On...
• 43 Places To Visit In West Bengal In...
• 41 Best Places To Visit In June In...
• 35 Best Places To Visit In Mysore In...
• 35 Places To Visit In Coorg For A...
• 54 Best Places To Visit In India In...
• 8 Places To Visit In Jibhi For A...
• 64 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Goa...
• 25 Best Places To Visit In Visakhapatnam In...
• 16 Places To Visit In Lucknow That Showcase...
• 60 Best Places To Visit In Kolkata That...

International Places To Visit

• 35 Best Places To Visit In Japan That...
• 40 Best Places To Visit In Canada In...
• 28 Places To Visit In October In World...
• 28 Stunning Places To Visit In South Korea...
• 25 Places To Visit In Manila In 2024...
• 19 Best Places To Visit In Morocco In...
• 34 Best Places To Visit In Austria In...
• 82 Best Places To Visit In Turkey That...
• 10 Breathtaking Places To Visit In The World...
• 22 Best Places To Visit In Netherlands: The...
• 24 Fabulous Places To Visit In Ireland: The...
• 19 Best Places To Visit In London In...
• Discover 24 Places To Visit In Switzerland In...
• 17 Mystical Places To Visit In Egypt In...
• 15 Places To Visit In United Kingdom That’ll...
• 33 Best Places To Visit In Amsterdam On...
• 19 Best Places To Visit In Kuala Lumpur...
• 42 Best Places To Visit In Bangkok In...
• 11 Popular Places To Visit In Doha For...
• 26 Places To Visit In Germany In 2024...
• 32 Places To Visit In Belgium That Make...
• 15 Places To Visit In USA That Reflect...
• 37 Best Places To Visit In Dubai At...
• 15 Top Places To Visit In Asia To...
• 20 Must-See Places To Visit In Milan In...
• Top 27 Places To Visit In Greece In...
• 31 Places To Visit In Abu Dhabi In...
• 25 Places To Visit In August In The...
• 15 Best Places To Visit In Chicago That...
• 14 Places To Visit In Berlin You Must...

Things To Do

• 40 Things To Do In Pondicherry In 2024...
• 12 Best Things To Do In Matheran In...
• 23 Intoxicating Things To Do In Turkey In...
• Top 14 Interesting Things To Do In Kanyakumari...
• 38 Things To Do In Gokarna To Escape...
• 12 Best Things To Do In Varanasi For...
• 21 Remarkable Things To Do In Krabi In...
• 16 Things To Do On Honeymoon In 2024
• 23 Things To Do In Chennai To Explore...
• 20 Things To Do In Ahmedabad For An...
• 30 Best Things To Do In Wayanad For...
• 37 Amazing Things To Do In Kerala For...
• Top 39 Things To Do In Jaipur
• 19 Things To Do In Mussoorie For A...
• 33 Best Things To Do In Kolkata In...
• Top 25 Things To Do In Kodaikanal For...
• 32 Things To Do In Ooty That Will...
• 15 Things To Do In Srinagar That Will...
• 20 Things To Do In Darjeeling
• 27 Kickass Things To Do In Malaysia
• 25 Best Things To Do In Phuket That...
• 18 Awesome Things To Do In Kasol On...
• 27 Exciting Things To Do In Chikmagalur
• 9 Things To Do In Mathura For An...
• 23 Things To Do In Lonavala For A...
• 10 Best Things To Do In Lakshadweep For...
• 30 Joyful Things To Do In Bhutan
• 38 Exhilarating Things To Do In Udaipur In...
• 18 Best Things To Do In Chandigarh
• 29 Amazing Things To Do In Shimla
• 30 Things To Do In Dehradun In 2024
• 7 Incredible Things To Do In Vrindavan For...

Recent Posts

Top Attractions In Kaitaia For Nature Lovers To Experience Tranquil Bliss In 2024

Explore The Pleasant Town Of Westport In [Year] For A Delightful Trip

Discover The Charm Of Wänaka A Tranquil Retreat In New Zealand For 2024

Everything You Need To Know About Oamaru And Enjoy A Peaceful Travel In 2024

Your Ultimate Guide To Top Attractions And Activities In Foxton For 2024

Explore The Top Places To Visit In Şanlıurfa And Enjoy The Scenic View In 2024

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

64 Top Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Places To Visit »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Where to Eat
• Local Culture

Select Page

9 Charming and Underrated Small Towns Near Munich

Jun 26, 2023 | What to Do | 0

Munich is a bustling cultural capital of Bavaria. And while there’s plenty here to keep you occupied, it’s worth venturing outside the city limits to one of the nearby small towns or picturesque villages. Taking a day trip outside of Munich is a great way to escape the crowds and experience a quieter and more authentic side of Bavarian (and German) culture.

And don’t worry if you don’t have a car! Thanks to Germany’s fast and efficient public transportation system, all of the towns listed can be easily reached by train.

Table of Contents

Just an hour west of Munich lies the colorful town of Mindelheim. This medieval settlement dates back to the 14th century and was at one point entirely surrounded by a city wall (you can still see some parts of it during your visit). Other must-see attractions include the Mindelburg Castle (there’s a restaurant at the top), Jesuitenkirche Mariä Verkündigung (Roman Catholic Church), and the Mindelheimer Museum.

• Distance: 87 km
• Time: 1 hour by car or by public transportation

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

No list of charming German cities would be complete without mentioning Rothenburg ob der Tauber. With a prime location on Germany’s Romantic Road, this medieval city is a photogenic labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, half-timbered houses, and fairytale-like shops. It’s one of the more touristy villages in Bavaria (the Plönlein – as shown above – is Instagram famous), but definitely worth a stop at least once during your visit to Munich.

• Distance: 255 km
• Time: 2 hours and 45 min by car or 3 to 3.5 hours by public transportation

Dissected by the mighty Danube River, the UNESCO World Heritage-designated town of Regensburg is a great day trip from Munich. Marvel at the gothic Regensburg Cathedral, enjoy scenic river views from the 12th-century Stone Bridge, or simply indulge in an Aperol Spritz at one of the many cafes and bars. It’s also home to three universities, so expect a lively and diverse student population.

• Distance: 125km
• Time: 2.5 hours by car or public transportation

Lindau is a stunning island town situated on the eastern shores of Lake Constance, or as the Germans call it, der Bodensee. As with most other Bavarian towns, life is centered around the colorful medieval village (check out the architectural masterpieces of the Old City Hall, St. Peter’s Church, and Haus zum Cavazzen). However, it’s the scenic harbor that makes Lindau particularly noteworthy. Past the Lindau Lighthouse guarding the harbor entrance, you’ll have panoramic views of the Swiss and Austrian Alps in the distance.

• Distance: 181km
• Time: 2 hours by car or 2.5 hours by public transportation

Garmisch-Partenkirchen

For a mix of history, culture, and nature, head to the Alpine town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Although it’s a popular ski destination in the winter (it’s next to the Ammergau Alps, Ester Mountains, and Wetterstein Mountains), the town itself has quite a few notable attractions, especially along the historical street of Ludwigstraße. Visit the Werdenfels Museum, St. Martin’s Church, or, if you’re feeling lucky, the Casino Garmisch-Partenkirchen. And if you have time, taking the cable car to the top of Germany’s highest mountain (Zugspitze) is a must.

• Distance: 90km
• Time: 1 hour by car or 2 hours by public transportation

Located near the Austrian border, Passau sits at the confluence of three different rivers – the Danube, Inn, and Ilz. Take a boat tour to enjoy the city views, or stroll along the waterfront promenade for a bit of fresh air (there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes along the way where you can stop for a drink or bite to eat). If you’re interested in historic sites, you can visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Veste Oberhaus fortress, or the riverfront Schaiblingsturm tower.

• Distance: 193km
• Time: 2 hours by car or public transportation

A true Bavarian village, Bad Tölz makes a lovely day trip for those visiting Munich. The main street (Marktstraße) is lined with unique frescoed buildings that are home to German restaurants, ice cream parlors, and boutique retail shops. On a warm day, you can also walk along the Isar River (make sure to bring beers or a picnic because there are plenty of grassy spots on the bank). The area around Bad Tölz is also famous for its thermal baths – making it a prime destination for anyone craving a bit of rest and relaxation.

• Distance: 57km
• Time: 1 hour by car or public transportation

The enchanting town of Marktbreit is a dreamy destination that has managed to remain undiscovered by tourists. The well-preserved streets of half-timbered houses, colorful facades, and charming squares will make you feel as if you’ve been transported back to the middle ages. And as you’re in the wine-loving region of Franconia, you’ll find numerous wine shops and restaurants serving some of the best bottles in Germany (Müller-Thurgau and Silvanar are the most popular here). It may be one of the longer day trips from Munich, but worth it if you have extra time on your hands!

• Distance: 273km
• Time: 3 hours by car or 4 hours by public transportation

Hop over state lines to Baden-Württemberg to visit Blaubeuren, a beautiful small town famous for the Blautopf, a turquoise blue pond with translucently clear waters. You can come here just to admire the natural beauty (there’s a walking trail that leads around the spring), although it’s worth heading into town for a little sightseeing as well. In the old town, you can explore the Market Square (Marktplatz), visit the St. Peter’s Church, or see the Gothic Blaubeuren Abbey before trying some authentic Swabian food at one of the many local restaurants.

• Distance: 166km
• Time: 1 hour 45 minutes by car or 2 hours by public transportation

Related Posts

What to Do in Munich on Sunday

October 31, 2020

6 Best Attractions in Munich for First Timers

October 7, 2020

The 7 Most Beautiful Lakes Near Munich to Visit

June 26, 2023

• The 13 Best Markets in Munich

July 6, 2023

New to Munich?

We've got your back! Click below to find all the resources you need for your first visit to Munich

Recent Posts

• The 9 Best Traditional Breweries and Restaurants in Munich
• Where to Stay in Munich for Oktoberfest
• The 5 Best Hostels in Munich
• Where to Stay in Munich – the Best Neighborhoods, Hotels, and Things to Do

15 of the best day trips from Munich by train

Bavaria’s capital is certainly amazing, but it’s the sheer amount of day trips from Munich that make it such a great place to visit. The mountains are just an hour away, there are three large lakes just as close, with amazing UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient castles, and medieval towns all around.Even if you spent every weekend of the year exploring Munich’s vicinity, you’d still not see it all.

Our guest writer, Norman from Années de Pèlerinage, has compiled this list of the best day trips from Munich and you can visit most of them by train in 2 hours or less. There are so many things to do in Munich, but you do not want to miss seeing something of the surrounding region of Bavaria. You could easily stay a full week or more and explore the whole southern part of Germany from beautiful Munich!

You may also enjoy: 20 fabulous things to do in Munich, Germany

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

Schloss Neuschwanstein is the most visited tourist attraction in Bavaria. This is the picture book castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and featured in the film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Yes, it might be crowded (1.4 million tourists per year!), but it is also beautiful beyond imagination.

This fairy tale castle was built by King Ludwig II and here are three top tips to plan your visit. First, you have to reserve your Neuschwanstein castle tickets in advance . And secondly, you have to walk quite a bit to get to King Ludwig’s castle (or take a horse carriage). And lastly, there is a second castle called Hohenschwangau right next to it, so bring some extra time to see them both.

• If you prefer to have all arrangements taken care of, check out this tour from Munich: Neuschwanstein castle small group day tour from Munich
• Looking for a hotel nearby? We recommend the comfortable and reasonably priced Hotel Waldmann or look at other hotels in nearby Schwangau
• More info: Schloss Neuschwanstein website | Driving time from Munich around 2 hours then park in the village of Hohenschwangau | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Füssen around 2 hours 45 mins, then the bus to Neuschwanstein

You may also enjoy: 3 days in Munich – our itinerary of cool things to see and do

Stay at the Hotel Waldmann in Schwangau

Search for other hotels in Schwangau

Bamberg in Germany is one big UNESCO World Heritage site. If you are looking for a beautiful medieval old town, then this is possibly the best day trip from Munich for you. There are direct trains every hour from the central station and it’s easy to spend a whole day there.

Apart from the famous half-timbered town hall, there is a fantastic palace, quite a couple of small museums, and outstanding churches and monasteries to be explored. Bamberg is also renowned for its many artisanal beer breweries, so that’s definitely one of your best chances to sample an important aspect of Bavarian culture.

• While you’re in Bamberg, we recommend this Bamberg 2-hour guided walking tour to see the old town and main sights of Bamberg.
• Looking for a hotel in Bamberg? We recommend Am Blumenhaus Hotel Bamberg or look at other hotels in Bamberg .
• More info: Bamberg tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 2 hrs 20 mins | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Bamberg around 1 hr 45 mins. There is a high speed ICE train link Berlin – Nuremberg – Munich that stops at Bamberg.

Stay at the Am Blumenhaus Hotel Bamberg

Search for other hotels in Bamberg

3. Regensburg

Regensburg once guarded an important bridge across the River Maine. Even today, you can cross the architectonic marvel from the 12th century into the fantastic medieval old town. Regensburg dates to the Roman times and you can still see the old city gates. Just one of many reasons why it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site today.

You should reserve 3 hours to see the equally famous Walhalla memorial on the outskirts of Regensburg. The neoclassical temple was built to house sculptures of famous German artists, inventors, and politicians. You get to enjoy a fantastic view of the whole river valley from the top, so don’t miss it!

• While you’re in Regensburg, why not book this Regensburg sightseeing train tour , to discover the city highlights with an informative audio-guide?
• Looking for a hotel in Regensburg? We recommend Hotel Luis Stadl or look at other hotels in Regensburg .
• More info: Regensburg tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 1 hr 30 mins | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Regensburg around 1 hr 30 mins.

You may also enjoy: Food in Munich – where and what to eat in Munich

Stay at the Hotel Luis Stadl in Regensburg

Search for other hotels in Regensburg

4. Salzburg in Austria

The beautiful town of Salzburg might be across the Austrian border, but if you are a fan of the movie The Sound of Music then visiting this city is a no-brainer. It only takes 90 minutes by train. There are special tours to the most important film locations – check out the Original Sound of Music tour . But you should also be aware that Salzburg is home to one of the biggest medieval fortresses in Europe.

Read more: Munich outdoors – where to go cycling, surfing and wild swimming

The famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg, and you can still visit his birth house. You’ll find it in the amazing old town (which is another UNESCO World Heritage site). On top of all the baroque splendour, there are many ancient mines and caves in the vicinity. So, why not visit the World of the Ice Giants as well?

• Check out this tour with train travel from Munich and a guided walking tour in Salzburg: Salzburg sightseeing day trip from Munich by rail
• Looking for a hotel in Salzburg? We recommend the Boutique Hotel Auersperg or look at other hotels in Salzburg .
• More info: Salzburg tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 2 hours | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Salzburg around 2 hours.

Stay at the Boutique Hotel Auersperg in Salzburg

Search for other hotels in Salzburg

5. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is the capital of the Franconia region in Germany. The city hosted the important Nuremberg trials at the end of World War II and is famous for its beautiful Nuremberg Christmas market right in the medieval old town.

There is a beautiful fortress you can visit, but I personally love the Germanic National Museum the most. Inside, you will find beautiful artworks from all ages, and some outstanding highlights like the oldest pocket watch or the oldest globe in the world. There are also endless masterpieces by artists like Lucas Cranach and Albrecht Dürer.

• If you prefer to visit as part of a tour, we recommend: Nuremberg day trip from Munich by train including train ticket and guided tour of the city.
• Looking for a hotel in Nuremberg? We recommend the Melter Hotel & Apartments or look at other hotels in Nuremberg .
• More info: Nuremberg tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 2 hours | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Nuremberg around 1 hour.

Stay at the Melter Hotel & Apartments in Nuremberg

Search for other hotels in Nuremberg

6. Würzburg

Before 1805, Bavaria was split into many smaller duchies. Some of them were ruled by powerful prince-bishops, and Würzburg was the grandest of them all. As a testament to his sheer absolute power, Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn built a magnificent Residence palace in the first half of the 18th century. The most elaborated stucco works and frescoes adorn every inch of the Baroque masterpiece.

The Würzburg Residence was heavily bombed in the last months of World War II, just like the rest of the old town. But the local craftsmen rebuilt the palace (luckily all the interiors survived) and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage site you cannot miss.

• While you’re in Würzburg, we recommend booking this Würzburg sightseeing train tour , to discover the highlights of the old city with an informative audio-guide.
• Looking for a hotel in Würzburg? We recommend the Hotel Würzburger Hof or look at other hotels in Würzburg .
• More info: Würzburg tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 3 hours | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Würzburg around 2 hours.

Stay at the Hotel Würzburger Hof in Würzburg

Search for other hotels in Würzburg

7. Bayreuth

The quaint little town of Bayreuth would not appear on any tourist map save for the outstanding projects Margravine Wilhelmine started during her reign (or rather that of her husband). Missing the splendor of the Prussian court, she commissioned a new palace, a hunting palace (the fabled Hermitage) and a new Bayreuth opera house.

This Margravial Opera House is the single most intact Baroque court theater in the world and words cannot describe the beauty of it. There is so much detail, you’d probably need days to experience it all. This is another UNESCO World Heritage site you can easily visit on a day trip from Munich.

• More info: Bayreuth tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 2.5 hours | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Bayreuth around 2.5 hours.
• Looking for a hotel in Bayreuth? We recommend the Hotel Goldener Anker or look at other hotels in Bayreuth .

Stay at the Hotel Goldener Anker in Bayreuth

Search for other hotels in Bayreuth

8. Augsburg

And talking about the UNESCO, there is one last site you should be aware of which is only 40 minutes away from Munich: Augsburg. The city has a history of 2,000 years and more. For centuries upon centuries, the famous silversmiths supplied the European aristocracy with priceless artworks.

Augsburg is also famous for its waterworks. Ever since the 14th century, the citizens of the free city used the power of the River Lech to supply the old town with the tap water, an unrivaled luxury in the late medieval ages. The system is still in use today and it is quite a marvel to look at!

• More info: Augsburg tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 1 hour | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Augsburg around 30 mins.
• Looking for a hotel in Augsburg? We recommend Hotel Maximilian’s or look at other hotels in Augsburg .

Stay at Hotel Maximilian’s in Augsburg

Search for other hotels in Augsburg

Did you know that the highest church tower in the world is located in Germany? Ulm is only 90 minutes away from Munich and here you can marvel at neo gothic the Ulmer Münster church which is 162 meters high! And the best part: You can climb that mighty tower and enjoy a magnificent view of the whole old town and beyond. There is, however, no elevator, so you do have to climb those 738 steps all by yourself.

• More info: Ulm tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 2 hours | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Ulm around 1 hr 30 mins.
• Looking for a hotel in Ulm? We recommend the Boutique Hotel am Rathaus-Reblaus or look at other hotels in Ulm .

Stay at the Boutique Hotel am Rathaus-Reblaus in Ulm

Search for other hotels in Ulm

10. Altötting

Altötting is quite the insider tip. The town is the most important pilgrimage site in Bavaria and three popes have visited it. Over the three days of Pentecost 30,000 people converge on the town for a candle-lit procession around the town square. I’m not sure, why more international tourists don’t come here, but the place is special! Almost all Bavarian kings have had their hearts buried in the famous chapel of the Black Madonna in the centre of Altötting.

• Read More: A pilgrimage to see the Black Madonna at Altötting
• More info: Altötting tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 1 hr 15 mins | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Altötting around 1 hr 30 mins.
• Looking for a hotel in Altötting? We recommend the Hotel Zur Post or look at other hotels in Altötting .

Stay at Hotel Zur Post in Altötting

Search for other hotels in Altötting

11. Burghausen

Another wonderful day tour from Munich is Burghausen. You can combine visiting Altötting and Burghausen, as the two cities are only a 15-minute drive from each other. Here, you will find the longest medieval castle in Europe. The castle of Burghausen is 1,050 meters long, can you believe it?

• More info: Burghausen tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 1 hr 15 mins | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Burghausen around 2 hours.
• Looking for a hotel in Burghausen? We recommend the Hotel Garni Lindacher Hof or look at other hotels in Burghausen .

Stay at Hotel Garni Lindacher Hof in Berghausen

Search for other hotels in Berghausen

12. Innsbruck

Innsbruck is one of the oldest towns in Austria and has been continuously settled for more than 3,000 years. Today, the city with a population of 132,000 thousand is famous for its picturesque old town (especially the famous golden roof) and the beautiful mountains surrounding it. You could also visit the famous Swarovski World.

• While you’re visiting Innsbruck, we recommend taking this Innsbruck customized private tour with a local to learn about the fascinating history of the city.
• Looking for a hotel in Innsbruck? We recommend the Hotel Innsbruck or look at other hotels in Innsbruck .
• More info: Innsbruck tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 2 hours | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Innsbruck around 2 hrs 45 mins.

Stay at the Hotel Innsbruck in Innsbruck

Search for other hotels in Innsbruck

13. Dachau Concentration Camp

One of the darkest chapters of our history happened during the reign of the Nazis. Millions of Jews and other political prisoners were killed in so-called concentration camps. Instead of the most horrible furnaces, you will find important memorials in these sites. Dachau was one of them, and even though it will be a bit grizzly, I still urge you to visit. We cannot undo the past but we can learn from it so it never happens again.

• If you prefer to have all the arrangements taken care of, check out this tour: Dachau Memorial Site half day tour from Munich
• Looking for a hotel near Dachau? We recommend staying in Munich at Hotel Cortiina or you can explore other hotels in Munich .
• More info: Dachau concentration camp memorial site | Driving time from Munich 30-40 mins | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) around 30 mins. Take the S2 train direction Dachau / Petershausen then the bus 726 from Dachau station to the Memorial Site.

Stay at the Cortiina Hotel in Munich

Search for other hotels in Munich

14. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

I’m sure you have seen a picture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber before. The enchanting medieval old town is extremely famous. It’s certainly not the only one, but for many the most popular stop on Germany’s romantic road. It takes around 3 hours 30 minutes to get there from Munich by train, so it will be a rather long day. I still think it is worth it!

• We also recommend this tour from Munich: Romantic Road, Rothenburg and Harburg day tour from Munich
• Looking for a hotel in Rothenburg? We recommend the Tilman Riemenschneider or look at other hotels in Rothenburg .
• More info: Rothenburg ob der Tauber tourism website | Driving time from Munich around 2 hrs 45 mins | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Rothenburg ob der Tauber around 3 hrs 30 mins.

Stay at the Tilman Riemenschneider in Rothenburg

Search for other hotels in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

15. Linderhof Palace

The famous Bavarian king Ludwig II didn’t just build Neuschwanstein castle. In fact, building castle, palaces, and hunting lodges was basically all he did during his reign. The most intimate palace (and the only one that got finished during his lifetime), was Linderhof Palace. It’s a true gem – not especially large, but very intimate and beautiful with a very lovely park.

• Check out this tour from Munich that includes Linderhof Palace: Day trip to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof castles from Munich
• Looking for a hotel near Linderhof Palace? We recommend staying in nearby Oberammergau at Hotel Maxmilian or look at other hotels in Oberammergau .
• More info: Linderhof Palace website | Driving time from Munich around 1 hr 30 mins | Train from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) to Linderhof Palace around 2 hrs 40 mins.

You may also enjoy: Tips for seeing the Oberammergau Passion Play

Stay at Hotel Maximilian in nearby Oberammergau

Search for other hotels in Oberammergau

Tips for train travel from Munich

15 day trips already sound like a lot, but in fact, we could list another 50. In this case, we’ve tried to focus on places that are easily accessible by train from Munich central station, because you can take advantage of the Bayern-Ticket or Bavaria Ticket . For 26 euros, you get unlimited rides on the regional train for one day, while each additional group member will have to pay an extra 8 euros.

This is a great bargain and one you really should make use of (especially as buses and the subway in Munich and regional cities are covered by the ticket as well). Just make sure to sign your ticket (otherwise it’s not valid). Regional trains are a bit slower, and there is no bistro on board, so you should bring a little snack and some drinks on your day trips.

As for checking your connections, the website of the German Railway service works like a charm and here you can plan your trip and even buy your tickets.

You should also bring some cash because credit cards are NOT widely accepted in the rural areas of Germany, and ATMs might be a bit harder to find.

So this is our guide to the best day trips from Munich. I hope we were able to provide you with some solid inspiration and ultimately helped you planning your Germany itinerary.

Map of day trips from Munich

Click to view the map of day trips from Munich

About the author

Norman Schwarze has visited more than 50 countries and looks back on over 30 years of travel experience. When he is not reclining in the pool of a fantastic luxury hotel or exploring one of the most remote corners of this planet, you will find him writing about his experience on his blog, Années de Pèlerinage .

You can also connect with him on Twitter , Instagram or Facebook .

3 days in Munich – our itinerary of cool things to see and do

More articles about Munich

Food in Munich – where and what to eat in Munich

50 Best things to do in Munich from Années de Pèlerinage

Plan your trip

Need a guidebook for Munich? We recommend the DK Eyewitness Top 10 Munich guide

Fly into Munich airport where there is a station to take you directly into the city centre.

If you are looking for a guidebook for your visit to Germany, we recommend the DK Eyewitness Top 10 Munich or the DK Eyewitness Munich & The Bavarian Alps .

Need a guidebook for Munich? We recommend the DK Eyewitness Munich & The Bavarian Alps guide

If you prefer to have all the arrangements taken care of, check out these day tours from Munich to some of the places we’ve mentioned.

Photo credits: Neuschwanstein castle by derwiki | Neuschwanstein castle featured photo by iankelsall1 | Hohenschwangau castle by Pixaline | Salzburg by Makalu | Nuremberg Hangman’s Bridge by Bluefish_Japan | Nuremberg in Germany by bboellinger on Pixabay | Würzburg Photo Tama66 | Augsburg in Germany Photo thfr on Pixabay | Ulm by f ietzfotos | Burghausen by Duernsteiner | Innsbruck by Lichtenfels | Dachau by ho visto nina volaire | Rothenburg ob der Tauber by Maxmann and Maxmann | Linderhof by Frenchy3000 | Dachau watchtower by Alexas_fotos | Photos of Bamberg, Regensburg, Margravial Opera House, Christmas market in Nuremberg, Augsburg City Hall, Altötting in Germany, Burghausen castle by Annees de Pelerinage

This article is a guest post* by Norman of Années de Pèlerinage travel blog.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

Click to subscribe to our monthly newsletter, news and reader offers

Friday 29th of September 2023

Taking day trips by train from Munich makes so much sense. Ticket packages include attractive discounts this year as Germany promotes this environmentally positive means of exploration. It’s a great way to travel within Munich after a few liters at Oktoberfest, too. Pack light for Europe and find fashion advice for any age on Travel Fashion Girl.

Martin @ Uganda gorilla trekking

Thursday 10th of September 2020

Germany looks beautiful, it is time to tour this part of the world

Naveen Saini

Saturday 20th of June 2020

Hi, I have heard a lot about Munich. After reading the and pictures displayed in your article make me very curious to travel such beautiful places.

Alanna Koritzke

Thursday 18th of June 2020

Gosh, Germany is just so picturesque! I love it! Can’t wait to visit one day!!

Heather Cowper

Friday 19th of June 2020

@Alanna Definitely the land of picturesque castles and charming villages!

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

The well-known Neuschwanstein is one of the best castles in this world, I visited Germany many times but sadly I don't see it.

thanks for the detailed info about it I really appreciate your effort.

• Travel guides
• Luxury Hotels
• Munich guides

The 25 best day trips from Munich, Germany

Winter or summer: a massive list of the most popular day trips from munich as ranked by a local..

Munich is an amazing city. I should know, I live here. Architecture, art, tradition, food, beer – there is virtually nothing my hometown cannot offer (check my list of the 50 best things to do in Munich ). But that is not the only reason Bavaria’s capital is often ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world. There is also a sheer endless mass of tourist attractions in the close vicinity . Here is my list of the 20 best day trips from Munich.

 The easiest way to reach most of the places on this list is by car or guided tour. You’ll find the average time to reach them in parenthesis. As Bavaria has a very good public transport system , there is (almost) no location you cannot reach via train or bus in southern Germany. In some cases, it will take longer, though. I usually take the train.

Note: I earn a small commission for purchases made through links in this article

1. Day trip to Neuschwanstein castle (1h 50min)

The probably most popular reason to leave Munich is Schloss Neuschwanstein , near Füssen. The picture-perfect castle inspired Walt Disney for the Sleeping beauty castle  and countless generations of photographers. The most stunning part: It’s even more spectacular from within than from without. Construction started in 1869 as a private mansion for King Ludwig II but it never got finished due to his untimely death and the astronomical costs.

Plan some extra time to visit the adjacent castle Hohenschwangau. It’s a bit older, but nevertheless quite charming. As Neuschwanstein is pure fantasy, Hohenschwangau will also give you the unique opportunity to see a real castle of the Bavarian Kings.

How to get there: It’s a bit more complicated to get there by public transport, so I recommend a tour.

Recommended tour: This is the tour I booked on my last trip to Neuschwanstein

Related blog post: How to get from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle

Note: If you plan a visit definitely pre-book your tickets on the official website, especially during the summer months.

2. Regensburg (1h 30min)

Regensburg is another well preserved medieval town worth a visit listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The capital of Upper Palatinate (“Oberpfaltz”) was founded in 179 AD under the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and started to flourish after the Stone Bridge across the Danube opened up the international trade routes between Europe and Venice.

Truly a remarkable city with fascinating architecture and lots of history! So, put a Regensburg day trip from Munich on your bucket list, eh?

Related blog post: You can read my detailed Regensburg travel guide here .

Recommended tour: Here is a lovely direct guided tour from Munich .

How to get there: There are direct trains from the central station every hour. It only takes 90 minutes.

3. Nuremberg (1h)

Nuremberg is a medieval town of epic proportions and quite a spectacular old town. It has also quite a sinister Nazi-past, so it makes for the perfect day trip from Munich. If you are visiting Germany in winter, then the famous Christmas market in Nuremberg will be a more than welcome diversion.

I personally love the Germanic National Museum (one of the best museums in Germany), and the Toy Museum is also quite special. Above all, walking through the historic old town will be a treat. The Hangman’s Bridge is half-timbered medieval perfection if you ask me! Although most of it was destroyed during World War II, you should reserve some time to walk along the historic city wall and of course, the medieval Kaiserburg (emperor’s castle) abutting the old town.

Related blog post: Here is my travel guide to Nuremberg

How to get there: Take the train from the central station. If you take the expensive high-speed train, it only takes 60 minutes. The direct regional train is about 2 hours.

4. Würzburg (2h)

Another UNESCO World Heritage site you shouldn’t miss can be found in Würzburg. The drive might be quite long, but the Würzburg Residenz is worth it. The vast castle complex is especially famous for its stunning Baroque style interiors, and the world’s largest fresco created by none other than Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.

Related blog post: Read my Würzburg guide here

How to get there: The highspeed train takes 2 hours from Munich central station to Würzburg. The fastest regional connection is 3 hours 15 minutes, so not sure if that is feasible.

Note: If you just want to see the castle, I’d recommend visiting on route to another city in Germany like Frankfurt, Cologne or Berlin.

5. Bamberg (1h 40 min)

Looking for more UNESCO World Heritage sites? Then Bamberg might just be the perfect place for you. The medieval old town of the city is world-famous and beyond pretty. It’s not that close to Munich, but the highspeed train (ICE) will get you there in no time to make it feasible. I’ve done it plenty of times.

Related blog post: Here’s my Bamberg travel guide .

Recommended tour: Definitely consider booking a private brewery and walking tour ! You’ll thank me later.

How to get there: Again, the easiest way to get to Bamberg from Munich is by train. There is a direct train every hour (and a couple of slower trains in between).

6. Salzburg (1h 30min)

Not all that far away from the Königsee, hides another wonderful day trip option from Munich: Salzburg. Often coined the town where Mozart was born, has much more to offer than just music. The fourth-largest city in Austria is renowned for its impressive Baroque architecture and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Related blog posts: Click here for my detailed Salzburg travel guide )

Recommended tours: You can book a day trip from Munich here . Definitely also consider doing the authentic Sound of Music tour !

How to get there: A RailJet Express leaves every hour from Munich central station and only takes 90 minutes! You’ll have to walk a bit from Salzburg central station to the old town (quite scenic) or take the regional bus.

7. Altötting (1h 20min)

The small town of Altötting is a true insider tip. It is here, almost all Bavarian Kings had had their hearts buried, it is here Germany’s oldest and most important shrine to Mary can be found. And it is here all past three Popes came to pray in front of the black Madonna . It is a quiet place, a place for contemplation, but nevertheless stunning. Doubly so, as almost no international tourists come here.

Related blog post: Read my full Altötting guide here

How to get there: There are no direct trains from Munich central station. You will first have to catch one to Mühldorf and then change to the Regional Train to Altötting. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes one way.

8. Zugspitze (2h 25min)

Looking for an adventure? They how about climbing Germany’s highest mountain ? But fear not, for those short on time or too lazy to hike, three cables cars run all the way up those 2.962 meters (9.718 ft). The panorama of the Bavarian Alps from the top is truly spectacular.

There is a big skiing resort at the Zugspitze, so it is also a perfect winter getaway. If you are looking for further things to do between December and March, check out my guide to the best things to do in Munich in winter .

Recommended tour: Here is a comfortable direct tour from Munich .

How to get there: It is a bit more complicated to get to the Zugspitze. First, you have to catch a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, they leave every hour. Then you have to take the Regional bus to the Eibsee Cable Car and from there you can buy your tickets to go all the way to the top.

9. Blaubeuren (1h 40min)

In 2017 the UNESCO inscribed Blaubeuren and the nearby prehistoric cave dwellings as a World Heritage site . Even before, the medieval town was famous for the Blautopf, a natural spring of the deepest blue. Such a scenic setting.

There really is no way around visiting this amazing town near Ulm. Why? Well, in the URMU museum in Blaubeuren you get the chance to see the oldest human figurine ever found ( The Venus of Hohle Fels ; 42.500 years old) and the oldest human music instrument (The Geierknochenflöte ; same age).

Related blog post: Read how to visit Blaubeuren on a day trip from Munich here .

How to get there from Munich: It takes about 90 minutes to get to Blaubeuren by train, but you will have to catch a connecting train in Ulm. If you start your day early, you could even do a tour of Ulm for 2 hours (see below).

10. Innsbruck (1h 45 min)

Innsbruck is another lovely Austrian town, you really should visit. Fear not, as Austria is in the EU, crossing the border is utterly hassle-free. Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol and famous for its mountains, its old town , ski-resorts, and excellent cuisine.

It also happens to be the birthplace of the Swarovski crystals and there is a Swarovski Theme park quite close to the city worth visiting. Actually, I’d say Innsbruck is one of the best weekend trips from Munich, as there is so much to be explored in Tyrol that one day is probably not enough.

Related blog post: Read my detailed Innsbruch guide here

How to get to Innsbruck : There is a direct train from the central station every two hours. So, try to catch this one, as the alternatives take considerably longer.

11. Breitachklamm (2h 10min)

In the most southern part of Germany hides another Gem you will find in very few tourist guides. For some reason, the region called Allgäu is not all that popular among tourists. Berchtesgaden is closer, but traffic jams are frequent and its often a bit crowded. The Breitachklamm is the deepest rocky gorge in Central Europe and you really have to see. It’s a wonderful day trip from Munich in winter or summer.

How to get there: This one is a bit tricky. I actually recommend you to go there by car as taking public transport is difficult and slow. First, you have to catch a train to Fischen. And then you need to take bus 44 which will take you directly to the gorge (3 hours+ one way); With the car, you can make it in less than 2 hours.

12. Burghausen (2h)

Burghausen is home to the longest castle complex in the world . The medieval fair tale castle stretches for more than one kilometer along a high mountain ridge. Burghausen Castle was founded in 1025 AD and has quite a history to tell. You won’t need a full day to explore the complex, though. As both Salzburg and Altöttingen are quite close, you could possibly combine them.

How to get there: Take the train to Mühldorf from the central station and then catch the connecting train to Burghausen.

13. Königsee (2 hours)

Few spots in Bavaria, if any, are more beautiful than the Köngisee (Lake of the Kings). Located in the scenic area of Berchtesgaden, the lake and its picturesque church Saint Bartholomäus have been a tourist’s favorite for more than 200 years .

While you are in the area, definitely make sure to drop by at the famous Eagle’s Nest (or Kehlsteinhaus , how it is properly called). It was erected during the third Reich-era for special diplomatic receptions and was visited by Adolf Hitler many times. These days, it’s just a beautiful restaurant in a stunning setting.

Recommended tour: You can book an organized group tour here , which will be way easier than public transport

How to get there: I recommend you to book a tour or take the car. As an alternative, you could take the train to Salzburg and then catch Bus 841 to Schönau. From there, you can walk to the lake (1 kilometer)

14. Dachau Concentration Camp (40min)

Germany is a proud nation with a very long history and many accomplishments. We invented the computer, the car, the electro engine, planes, television, we reformed Christianity and so much more. But we also committed atrocities beyond imaginations.

The Nazi regime and Hitler are a stain we will never get rid off and one we should never forget either. Visiting one of the concentration camps, where hundreds of thousands of Jews and political enemies were killed under the most inhuman conditions might not be the most cheerful day trip from Munich, but it will leave a profound mark on your itinerary.

Recommended tour: This experience really calls for a guide, you can book it here .

How to get there: Take the suburban train S2 to Dachau. From here, you can catch bus 726 which will stop right in front of the memorial.

15. Rothenburg ob der Tauber (2h 30min)

I was somewhat reluctant to put Rothenburg ob der Tauber on this list of the best day trips from Munich. It’s quite far away. At the same time, the romantic medieval old town has always been a tourist’s favorite. If you start your day early, I’m sure you will enjoy your stroll through what once has been one of the Free Imperial City of the Holy Roman Empire. Rothenburg is part of the world-famous Romantic Road.

Recommended tour: If you don’t want to navigate public transport and would like a guide, this is a tour I can really recommend .

How to get there: Rothenburg is actually not that close to Munich and you will have change trains 3 (!) times. First, you have to get to Nürnberg, then catch the train to Ansbach, from Ansbach to Steinach, and from Steinach to Rothenburg. As you don’t have a lot of time to reach the other tracks, a tour is probably better for first-timers.

16. Linderhof palace (1h 15min)

Linderhof is another beautiful residence of King Ludwig II you have to see. It’s perhaps the most private, most intimate place he commissioned and thus the most intriguing. It is also the only of his castles and palaces that got finished during his lifetime.

The small villa and it’s surrounding park was never meant to be an official place, but rather some kind of Hermitage for a man who was more constantly longing for the lost glory of past ages.

Related blog post: You can find a list of the top castles near Munich here .

Recommended tour: This is the tour I booked on my last trip . It is the fastest and best way to see the castle (& Neuschwanstein castle)

How to get there: Linderhof castle is located in the middle of nowhere and there are no easy direct connections by public transport. Book a tour or rent a car. As an alternative, you can take the train to Oberau, then catch the bus 9606 to Ettal and then another bus (9622) to the castle. It will take roughly 2 hours 30 minutes if you don’t miss any connections. The bus service can be a bit unreliable.

Note: Do drop by at the fantastic Ettal monastery which is only a 20-minute drive away.

17. Bayreuth (2h)

There are many UNESCO World Heritage sites in Bavaria, but in my opinion, Bayreuth beats them all. The Margravial Opera House is out of this world. Then there is the Eremitage and quite a host of other wonderful Baroque style buildings you won’t be able to see anywhere else. Bayreuth is one of my favorite day trips from Munich!

Related blog post: Check out my full Bayreuth travel guide here .

How to get there: The only feasible way to visit Bayreuth from Munich is taking the highspeed train to Nuremberg and then catch a connecting regional train to Bayreuth. Then, you will only need 2 hours to get there. Regional trains might take close to 4 hours.

18. Museum Buchheim (1h)

One of my personal favorite places to visit near Munich is the Museum Buchheim – or Buchheim Museum of Imagination. Buchheim was a German author and art collector. The museum is home to one of the finest collection of expressionist art and a beautiful starting point to explore idyllic lake Starnberg.

Note: Kloster Andechs is quite close. So why not combine the two for an extra special day trip

How to get there: There are direct trains to the city of Kochel from central station Munich (RB 59653), but you will have to get out in Bernried and then you can walk the rest (1 kilometer). There is a bus, but it basically makes no sense, as you will have to walk almost half the way to get to the next bus station.

19. Augsburg (30 min)

Augsburg is the third oldest city in Germany (founded in 15 BC!!) and played a major role in our history. There are magnificent buildings from the very earlier medieval times (like the Cathedral, founded in the 9th century), beautiful Renaissance architecture and the oldest social housing estate in the world (the Fuggerei ).  It’s also home to one of the very few Synagogues to survive the pogrom during WWII.

Related blog post: Read my Augsburg guide here .

How to get there: It’s quite easy to get from Munich to Augsburg. There are direct trains every 15 minutes. The highspeed train will only take 30 minutes, while the cheaper regional train takes 45 minutes to get there.

20. Ulm (1h 15min)

Ulm should be on any list of cities near Munich to visit. It’s not only the birthplace of Albert Einstein but also home to the tallest steeple in the world (161m / 520ft). The long and winding climb up the Ulm Minster is a truly unforgettable experience – both in terms of the pain your legs will experience and the amazing view in grants over the old town. I especially liked walking through the old fishermen’s quarter with its many half-timbered houses and narrow cobblestone streets.

How to get there: There are direct trains from Munich central station to Ulm every hour.

21. Wieskirche (2h 20 min)

Close to the alps, there is a region known as the Paffenwinkel (the ‘shavelings quarter’). The people in this part of Bavaria have always been very religious and value their ancient traditions a lot. There is a sheer endless mass of outstandingly beautiful churches you can explore, but the Church of the Wies is probably the crowning achievement .

Right in the middle of nowhere, you’ll find a UNESCO World Heritage site of such beauty, it’s hard to comprehend. The small rococo church is famous for its awe-inspiring frescos . It also is an important pilgrimage site and weirdly enough not very popular among international tourists. This is entirely weird, as the most visited attraction in Germany (Neuschwanstein castle) is only 10 kilometers away.

Blogpost with more details: Here is my Wieskirche guide .

Available guided tours: I could only find this combined tour , which also visits Neuschwanstein castle.

How to get there from Munich: You have to take the train to Füssen and then there is a tourist bus right to the entrance. You could also rent a car and visit all the highlights in the area in one day.

22. Herrenchiemsee Palace (1 hour 30 minutes)

Visiting the fantastic Lake Chiemsee is one of my favorite tours from Munich. In summer, it’s a good place to escape the heat of the city, but most tourists want to visit the wonderful Herrenchiemsee Palace no matter the season. The Bavarian King Ludwig II visited Versaille in France and was so inspired by all that splendor that he too wanted a piece of it.

That’s why he commissioned the wonderful Herrenchiemsee Palace on a picturesque island on Lake Chiemsee. I love strolling through the park and just enjoying the beautiful scenery. There’s another island close by, the so-called Fraueninsel, which you should also check out. There are an ancient church and some lovely restaurants where you can eat fresh fish!

Recommended tour: Here is a wonderful direct tour to Herrenchiemsee .

How to get there: Probably the easiest way to get there is catching a train to the city Prien am Chiemsee, walk down to the harbor (or take the bus) and then take the ferry to one of the islands.

23. Kloster Weltenburg (1h 30 min)

There are many smaller and bigger monasteries near Munich. Ottobeuren, Ettal or Andechs instantly come to my mind. But probably none is as beautiful as the Weltenburg monastery. Being founded in 617 AD, it is also the oldest monastery in Bavaria .

To me, the setting makes Weltenburg so special. The view from the other side of the Danube is nothing short of spectacular . You should definitely combine your trip with a visit to the Hall of Liberation in Kehlheim, which is quite a beautiful neoclassical memorial.

How to get there: The only feasible way to get there is by renting a car. You’ll get there in about 90 minutes. Otherwise, you have to catch a train to Ingolstadt and then navigate the public bus network, which will be a bit frustrating and will take around 3 and a half hours.

24. Oberammergau (1h 45 min)

Air paintings are very popular in the rural areas of Bavaria. Often, you will find huge murals adorning the facades of private houses – most of them with a religious background. Sadly, it is slowly vanishing art. The town of Oberammergau is the exception. Virtually every house is painted one way or another .

Oberammergau is world-famous for its woodcarvers and it could be the perfect opportunity to buy a wonderful sculpture. There is one more thing you should know: Every 10 years the citizens are performing a Passion Play . It is recognized by the UNESCO and draws hundreds of thousands of tourists. And here is the good news: The next performance is scheduled to be in 2020. You can get your tickets here .

How to get there: Many tours to Neuschwanstein stop there, but you can also get there by public transport. Take the regional train to Murnau and then change into the train to Oberammergau. Takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes one way.

25. Fürstenfeld Abbey (25 minutes)

Just outside of Munich’s city gates, you will find a baroque masterpiece : The Fürstenfeld Abbey. Founded in 1258 AD by the Bavarian dukes, the huge monastic ensemble is often compared with the El Escorial in Madrid.

Related blog post: My Fürstenfeld Abbey guide

How to get there: Take the suburban train S4 to Geltendorf from the central station and get out at Fürstenfeldbruck

26. Therme Erding (1 hour)

Wondering what to do in Munich on a rainy & cold day? Well, you should know that you’ll find the largest thermal bath in Europe in Erding on the outskirts of Munich ( here is the official website ).

It is truly huge and separated into three main areas: The waterpark with plenty of slides for the kids, the wellness and swimming area, and the spa & sauna area for adults only.

How to get there: Suburban train S2 will get you to Altenerding in about 40 minutes. From here you have to catch bus number 550 directly to the thermal bath.

[Bonus] The best day trips for Kids: Legoland + Wildpark Poing

Searching for the best day trip from Munich with kids ? Then Legoland is what you are looking for. The Lego theme park is a wonderful mixture of rides and theme worlds built from Lego bricks. While young adults might still enjoy Legoland, it’s probably more suitable for ages 4-14.  Here is the link to the official website. 

Another wonderful place to visit with kids is the Wildpark Poing. It’s not so much a zoo and more like a safari park where a huge emphasis lies on species-appropriate husbandry . To give you a good impression: The housing of the bear is 30,000m² large. For adults and kids, I think this is the best way to experience the local wildlife in a sustainable way.  Here is a link to the official website .

Other day tours from Munich

Believe it or not, but calling this list finished would be a lie. There are many, many more beautiful day trips from Munich. I really didn’t mention Kehlheim, the Walhalla, Kempten and it’s Roman fort, nor Schwaz and its medieval silver mine. Even Erfurt in Thuringia is a possibility!

You also have to remember, that the Alps are only an hour’s drive away and there are so many beautiful hiking trails it would warrant another article (or two!). The surrounding area is also home to a couple of outstanding churches (like the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wieskirche).

Once it starts snowing, things change dramatically as well. A list of the best day trips from Munich in winter would definitely have to include all the amazing skiing resorts in Germany and across the Austrian border. Garmisch, Kitzbühl, Schladming, Stubai, and Ischgl instantly come to my mind. And let’s not forget the fabulous Christmas markets.

To tell you the truth: I have been living in Bavaria all my life and hardly a month passed where I did not explore something new. Ever since the Roman time new and outstanding architecture has been added, while the landscape has been developed by the local farmers since eons before. Certainly, there have been a couple of wars in between, but the remains still more than you could possibly explore in one lifetime.

Looking for more Munich inspiration? Here are some of my other articles:

• The 5 best hotels in Munich’s old town
• One day in Munich – What to see when time is short
• A self-guided Art Nouveau walking tour through Munich
• My Ultimate Oktoberfest Survival Guide

Anyway, I’ll conclude my list here. Hope you liked it. If you got any questions, feel free to drop me a comment below. And don’t forget to pin this to your Pinterest board.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

The 15 best things to do in Stuttgart, Germany

The 10 best things to do in Erfurt, Germany

The 15 best things to do in Weimar, Germany

Amazing post – thank you!

Visiting in late June, you’ve made me excited to be there and sorry we can’t stay longer already! I wanted to plan a special day while we’re there for my partners bday … we’re outdoor people and foodies. If you have any suggestions that would be much appreciated! Either way thanks for all the terrific info :) Karen Detroit, MI

thank you! I’m sure you will have a blast of a time. As for food suggestions – try to go to a beer garden at least once! :)

Such a great list! I’ve been to Munich and other parts of Bavaria several times (I used to live in Freiburg and now I live in Berlin) but there are still so many places to visit. I really like Nuremberg and Bamberg, haven’t been to Regensburg yet. And there are definitely more castles I need to see!

We’ve visited Wurzburg – it was very interesting, but the trip to Neuschwanstein was a bit questionable because of the amount of tourists, we have decided to choose the daytrip to Prague, it’s not that far from Munich.

Great post and thanks for the tips! Will be visiting Munich in Dec – will definitely check out some of these sights. Thanks again!

This is a fantastic post about the best day trips from Munich. There are so many places I would like to see and you gave it to one article so it would be easy to choose some and just go – as soon as travelling is possible again I would definitely use your post for picking the best trip!

Thank you again for this post and I wish you all the best!

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

That's okay for me

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The latest post on my travel blog

The best things to do in Madeira, Portugal

• Terms & Conditions
• Site notice
• Data Privacy Statement

17 Best Day Trips from Munich in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: July 30, 2024

Munich is the Bavarian capital (technically an unofficial capital) and an absolute cultural hotspot. The city’s history is next to none, with harrowing tales of World War II and the catastrophic rise of the Nazi Party. However, there are more lighthearted  things to do in Munich , like attending the world-famous annual Oktoberfest or visiting the famous old town hall. Munich is easily one of the most famous cities in Germany and an absolute pocket rocket for activities and attractions – so why on Earth would you want to book day trips from Munich?

As exciting and diverse as the city center, Munich is set amidst stunning scenery you’ll absolutely adore experiencing on day trips. And with its train station and excellent public transport system, it would be a crime to refrain from indulging in a day trip or two. With loads of car rentals, you can easily organize a romantic road trip too, and there are some of  Germany’s best castles  within two hours of the city center. Many attractions, like Dachau, are just a convenient half-hour drive away, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas.

Table of Contents

Top Day Trips From Munich

When you visit Munich, you definitely need to allocate a day or two to day tripping your way around its surrounding areas. Day trips from Munich are essential, even if you just want to better understand the city. Here are our top recommendations for Munich day trips – from Dachau Concentration Camp to Eagle’s Nest.

The best way to get around Bavaria from Munich is by rental car. You can compare prices here. If you don’t want to drive, we have included day tours from Munich at most of the destinations listed. Those who prefer an organized tour, a group tour, or maybe even a bus tour are also available and can offer exceptional options for exploring.

For transfers from the airport to downtown Munich, book this Private Transfer to take the hassle out of finding a taxi when landing. Your driver will have your name plate waiting for you upon arrival.

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is a fairytale castle and an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you think you don’t recognize the name, you’ll recognize its picture. The stunning castle sits amidst the snow-capped Bavarian Alps and is featured in the cult classic film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The bright white walls and turrets (dramatic enough to make Walt Disney jealous) cut a beautiful picture against the mountainous backdrop. And, not even considering its history, it’s no wonder that Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the world’s most famous castles.

This Full Day Trip  takes you on a guided tour from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, and then you will continue on to Linderhof, Hohenschwangau, and Oberammergau, giving a good highlight tour of Bavaria’s top attractions. The nearby towns of Linderhof and Oberammergau are also known for their impressive churches, which add to the cultural and architectural charm of the region.

Neuschwanstein Castle was built by King Ludwig II as a bolt-hole after his – rather embarrassing – loss in the Anglo-Prussian war, and many say that he used it as a sort of imaginary kingdom. King Ludwig II met a twisted end, declared insane by the government and eventually found in a suicide-suspected-assassinations alongside his psychiatrist.

You can discover more about Neuschwanstein Castle and King Ludwig II on a guided tour of the attraction. It is two hours away from Munich by car, which is the best way of reaching the castle besides a guided tour. Between the castle’s beauty and Ludwig’s complex story, it is easily one of the best Munich day trips. The Premium tour includes skip-the-line tickets to Neuschwanstein and Linderhoff.

2. Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is one of the most tragic stories and dark day trips from Munich. Dachau was one of the main concentration camps used by the Nazi Party in World War II, and it was a Nazi party rally grounds as well as a jail (and often death sentence) for political prisoners. To learn more about the World War II history around Munich, it is one of the main ‘attractions’ in the area. While you don’t get an official tour guide, visitors get an audio guide leading them through the concentration camp complex and a series of exhibits. You’ll learn about those who lost their lives and get an incredibly sad but insightful education on the rise and fall of the Nazi’s power.

You can book a guided tour to Dachau with a professional guide who is trained and authorized by the Memorial site. They will organize travel arrangements and give you a comprehensive tour of the memorial site.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is less than one hour from Munich city center. You can drive there in 30 minutes, but we’d suggest catching the 20-minute train to Dachau before catching the 10-minute bus to the camp. Alternatively, you can take one of the frequent regional trains, which offer a reliable and convenient way to reach Dachau. Or you can take a guided excursion . As far as day trips from Munich go, it is the easiest option. The memorial site is also the most educational in World War II history.

3. Zugspitze Cable Car

Zugspitze cable car is one of the top day trips from Munich. Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, is 2,962 meters above sea level. As Germany’s highest peak, it attracts tons of visitors wanting to enjoy the stunning views and tick it off their bucket lists. The best thing is that you can ride the cable car to the top.

You can book a guided full day tour to Zugzpitze from Munich to ride the cable car up Germany’s highest peak. Enjoy the breathtaking views before you descend on the historic cogwheel train.

The Zugspitze cable car is a little expensive (nearly $90). However, the 10-minute journey is ridiculously scenic and holds a world record for the ‘longest free span in a cable car.’ Really, $90 is quite reasonable, considering you’ll be getting a round-trip tour to the top of Germany’s highest mountain. The Zugspitze cable car is one of the most exciting Munich day trips. You can view the borders of four countries from the summit – Italy, Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. There’s a summit station, too, with restaurants and an indoor viewing area.

The best way to reach the base of the Zugspitz cable car is by driving, and you can reach this attraction in less than two hours by car. You also go through some beautiful areas, skirting the edge of Ettaler Forst and Murnauer Moos.

4. Linderhof Palace

King Ludwig II was not short of beautiful castles; we can tell you that for free. Linderhof Castle is just another of his magnificent builds and one of the top Munich day trips. The 19th-century palace is the ultimate picture of grandeur. If Neuschwanstein Castle was a fairytale image, Linderhof Palace is a royal image. The stately castle has a beautiful expanse of gardens and water features.

Book the ultimate Royal Fairytale Castle Tour with skip-the-line tickets to Linderhof Castle and Neuschwanstein that include guided tours and leisure time to explore some of Bavaria’s best highlights.

And visitors can take guided tours around the grounds between April and October. Need help to choose between the two of Ludwig’s castles? In an ideal world, choose both. But what differentiates them is size; Linderhof Palace is much more intimate and thoroughly furnished inside. Whereas Neuschwanstein Castle is better known for its dramatic backdrop and locale.

Linderhof Palace is best reached by car or organized excursion. By car, it is just a 1.5-hour journey. While by public transport it takes over 2.5 hours. Consider booking a guided tour, including transportation, for this one if you need a driving license.

5. Take a River Altmühl Boat Tour

The River Altmühl lies between Nuremberg and Munich. When you think of rivers near Munich, your mind probably jumps to the Danube – no shame in that – which, while beautiful with stunning views, is one of the busiest places to take a boat tour or cruise. Regarding avoiding crowds, the River Altmühl is the better option. It has an idyllic setting looping between little towns and villages. To experience the German countryside from the water, the River Altmühl is one of the area’s best-hidden gems.

You can hire a kayak or canoe. Or book a more traditional guided tour on a small boat with other tourists. Zimmern to Solnhofen is a popular boat tour route on the Altmühl. Still, canoe and kayak rentals dotted all along the river. An Altmühl boat tour is one of the top day trip choices and well worth wiggling into your Munich itinerary, especially since Solhofen is just 1 hour and 40 minutes by car from Munich’s city center.

Vaduz is one of the most unusual Munich day trips – best for those with a driving license and a firm sense of adventure. Why not venture into Liechtenstein to add another country to your passport while you have the chance? Vaduz is Liechtenstein’s capital and is located along the Swiss border. You’ll get a different insight into the scenery and landscape. The drive takes you nearly 3 hours southwest of Munich (no small undertaking, so we’d suggest having drivers rotate driving shifts) and past Obersee Lake. If you fancy a halfway stopping point, Memmingen is a beautiful town with brightly painted buildings and plenty of aesthetic, traditional cafes.

In Vaduz itself, there is the beautiful Vaduz Castle, Old Rhine Bridge, and Werdenberg Castle. Vaduz is an ideal spot to museum-hop and sightsee historic castles and prior royal residences. For history buffs with a taste for road trips, there’s nowhere better than day-tripping from Munich. We had to suggest it as a further afield, lesser-known day trip option. Especially as it is so good for beating the crowds.

While in Liechtenstein, take this 35-minute train journey for panoramic views of the mountains and the Old Town of Vaduz.

7. Eagle’s Nest

The infamous Eagle’s Nest is one of the eeriest day trips from Munich. Eagle’s Nest is a former military base on a mountain summit that is reachable to visitors by elevator – or hiking if you are courageous. The whole thing is rather scenic and has beautiful views over the surrounding landscape. However, the real kicker is that this base belonged personally to Adolf Hitler.

The dictator received Eagle’s Nest as a 50th birthday present and used it as a bolt-hole to escape the public eye and significant cities. While he never got to use it as frequently as intended, it was, by design, a place for Hitler to privately enjoy.

Eagle’s Nest is a place for dark tourism and serious history enthusiasts. Most people visit because of the historical insight into the war and the personal element to the site – Hitler is a terrifying figure, and people grapple with the sense of him actually being a ‘real’ person. Eagle’s Nest is eerie evidence of Hitler’s everyday activities.

This day trip is best accessed by car, which takes just under 2 hours and passes the nature reserve of Mundung der Tiroler Achen. Public transport is a nightmare, taking 3 hours and using multiple bus lines. If you can’t drive, book a guided tour from Munich.

8. Stuttgart

If you fancy a train ride with breathtaking scenery, consider Stuttgart. Stuttgart is Germany’s car-obsessed 6th largest city, famously home to car factories including Mercedes-Benz and Porsche vehicles. Mercedes-Benz and Porsche have headquarters and museums in Stuttgart – so for any petrolheads, it is a fabulous city to visit. These two big-name museums have some of the best tours for car enthusiasts.

The train station in Stuttgart is smack bang in the city center, so it’s a breeze to get to Munich. The direct train leaves from Munchen Hauptbahnhof and takes 2 hours and 17 minutes on average, passing just three stops before reaching Stuttgart. High-speed trains are the best when taking Munich day trips, and despite being a slightly longer journey, this public transport is one of the easiest and most relaxing ways of going on a day trip. Bring a good book and enjoy the views of the countryside.

9. Beer Halls and Brewery Tours

Local beer is a huge selling point when visiting Munich, so having some beer-themed day trips from Munich also makes sense. Once you’ve exhausted (or opted out of) the busy beer halls and breweries around the city center, set your sights further and consider going to breweries and venues on the outskirts of Munich. These spots are much quieter – meaning fewer crowds and a more authentic beer culture. These outskirt venues often offer the best tours and a much more intimate experience.

You could choose CREW Republic (40 minutes away on public transportation) or Hops Hacker GmbH & Co (30 minutes away on public transportation). There are tons of lesser-visited beer halls and breweries, so just be prepared to travel further afield and watch the quality of your experience triple.

10. Ingolstadt

Ingolstadt is known for Audi cars and its medieval old town. Strange combination, right? But it makes for a fascinating day out. A 14th-century gate marks the entrance to the old medieval town where Ingolstadt would have been one of Germany’s best small towns. You can easily explore this region on foot as everything is within walking distance. Ingolstadt remains one of the best tours for early German history. Skipping centuries entirely, visiting the Audi Forum – a massive museum with an impressive vintage car collection is worth visiting. The city is varied as you travel through its ages and is a brilliant destination on a day out from Munich.

Ingolstadt is best reached by train – a nice touch for sure, making this day trip from Munich one of the most sustainable options. It takes just 40 minutes to get to Munich by direct line.

11. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

If you walk past travel stores in Munich, you’ll see pictures of Rothenburg ob der Tauber plastered everywhere. It is one of the most classic day trips from Munich, whisking away camera-happy visitors to a cobbled German town around 3 hours from Munich by car or shuttle. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is famed for its medieval architecture, including the ‘money shot’ of a curved street taking a sharp bend with traditional houses lining the road. The half-timbered houses and dull-painted buildings are beautiful, and it’s easy to see how tourism has become rife here.

This private tour from Munich takes you along the Romantic Road in a comfortable van. The 10-hour tour can be customized and takes you through the Bavarian countryside to Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is definitely a busy tourist destination. Don’t be under any illusions that you’ll be jostling elbows with other tourists when snapping photos. Be prepared to buy into the cheesiness of it all – even a little bit. However, it is one of the most aesthetic spots to visit when day-tripping from Munich. We’d suggest splashing out on a day tour for this trip, as reaching Rothenburg ob der Tauber by train is challenging, requiring multiple train changes and taking over 3 hours.

12. Partnach Gorge

If you want hiking trails, nowhere itches the spot like Partnach Gorge. The bright blue water is a brilliant light color – almost baby blue – and runs like a crystal against the dark gray rocks. Visitors hike alongside the water through narrow gorges and under waterfalls, protected by the cliffs above. It is easily the most scenic place to head and enjoy hiking trails on a day out from Munich. And walking along the narrow railed paths carved out of the gorge’s cliffside is exhilarating. There isn’t a hike like it in this area of Germany.

Partnach Gorge is a horrible place to try and reach by public transport, demanding multiple buses and schedule juggling at stops. Instead, we’d suggest hiring a car and driving, since it takes an hour and 20 minutes to reach by car from Munich.

13. Schleissheim Palace Complex

A 17th-century palace immediately conjures visions of total grandeur. And with elaborate gardens, Prussian art exhibits, and manicured architecture, it’s evidence that first impressions count. Schleissheim Palace Complex is grand through and through. You can easily spend half a day walking past water fountains and admiring the original artwork. Past visitors have even gone as far as to compare it to being in Alice and Wonderland. Its grandeur gives it a serious wow factor and makes it as popular as it is. The fact that you can spend an entire day here is also positive, and the mixture of indoor and outdoor activities is perfect for a warm day.

Schleissheim Palace Complex is located just north of Munich – around 40 minutes away by public transport and 30 minutes by car. It is one of the closest day trips attractions to the city and one of its most beautiful. For a unique experience, book an evening concert at Schleissheim Palace performed by members of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra.

14. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is Bavaria’s second-largest city, only just smaller than Munich. Sadly, the Second World War destroyed much of its original architecture. However, much of it has been restored over later years, so you can still see elements of medieval architecture and historical buildings.

You can also trace a lot of the history of the world wars in Nuremberg, including the trials after WWII. Memorium Nuremberg Trials was where the Nazi party and associates were tried and convicted as war criminals. The museum is set above the original court and has many exhibits and information on enacting justice. Nuremberg is a hub of history and culture – whether dark or lighthearted. If you fancy another ‘large city experience’, spending a few hours outside of Munich is a brilliant way.

We have a complete guide on  things to do in Nuremberg ; check it out for more inspiration. It’s also worth noting that Nuremberg is easier to reach by train than by car, taking only an hour instead of 2 hours by car.

Book a private tour of Nuremberg from Munich. The full-day tour is led by a 5-star private guide to see all the highlights and best attractions of Nuremberg. Sights include Imperial Castle Kaiserburg, Frauenkirche, St. Laurence, and St. Sebald, and more. Plus, return tickets between Munich and Nuremberg. If you decide to drive, we explored the city on a lovely bike ride, and we highly recommend that as a way to see the city.

15. Augsburg

Augsburg is a beautiful city. It takes the phrase historical center to the next level with its ultra-traditional medieval city center, complete with city walls. And some parts even date back to the Middle Ages; Augsburg is the oldest city in Germany. If you are into history or architecture, this is your day trip. There are medieval guild buildings, cathedrals, and abbeys to visit. It feels like Augsburg has an ancient building or story at every corner.

Ready for the real winner? Augsburg is only 30 minutes away from Munich by train. You ride two stops on a direct train line, reaching the city in what feels like no time at all. We love the smaller-city atmosphere that Augsburg offers; it has so much history to give people.

While in Augsburg book this scenic flight that includes soaring over the likes of Neuschwanstein Castle, Munich, and Bavaria’s stunning mountains, lakes, and forests.

16. Lake Chiemsee

Lake Chiemsee is a beautiful day trip, and if it is a hot day in Munich, consider this your best option. With natural beaches skimming along the lake’s shoreline, it’s no mystery why this is one of the most popular swimming spots outside of Munich. Swimming is the most tempting option on a hot day but doesn’t rule out boating too.

There are three islands on the lake, one of which houses a Benedictine nunnery. It’s great fun to explore by boat. So book a time slot, rent a boat, and let loose on the water. Lake Chiemsee is really fun-orientated, which makes it stand out from other more sightseeing or history-focused attractions.

Lake Chiemsee is a very popular day trip from Munich. Depending on the whereabouts of the shoreline you plan to visit, it takes you around an hour to get to the lake from Munich – by train or car. It is frequently visited by those living in the city. It is a dream to organize as a day trip, which is completely easy logistically.

One of the main attractions at Chiemsee is Herrenchiemsee Palace. This day tour from Munich takes you on a boat ride along the lake to the Benedictine convent on Fraueninsel and the Palace built by ing Ludwig II.

17. Salzburg – Austria

Salzburg is an easy sell; we won’t lie. This is ten times more so if you love classical music, as the city was home to Mozart. The Old City has stunning medieval town buildings and houses, strongly influencing later baroque architecture too. In the Old City, you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace – now converted into a museum documenting his life. Aside from the Mozart museum, Salzburg is home to the imposing Hohensalzburg Castle.

It is also located in Austria along the German / Austrian border, meaning you see an entirely different side to this area of Germany. So, while Mozart draws people in, there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy. Book a private day tour to Salzburg with your own private 5-star guide to immerse in the filming locations of ‘The Sound of Music’, see the Old Town and Fortress Hohensalzburg, visit the fabulous Mirabell Gardens and more.

Getting to Salzburg by public transport is convenient, with a short train ride from Munich taking just 1.5-2 hours. Driving is also an option, taking 1 hour and 45 minutes and passing Lake Chiemsee and other cute little towns to stop at.

Day Trips From Munich: Things To Know

Munich day trips are popular for many reasons, as you can see. The best thing is that for many of the day trips we’ve featured, you can just hop on an easy train ride – making a day trip from Munich non-reliant on a driver’s license and much more sustainable. Tourists visit various destinations for their unique attractions and experiences, making each trip special and memorable.

Now that you are feeling inspired, what else is there to quickly cover before you head out day tripping? These are our top FAQs to prep you for your day trips from Munich.

What is a good day trip from Munich?

Dachau Concentration Camp is a harrowing day trip from Munich if you want an insight into World War II and Nazi Party history. While Neuschwanstein Castle is perfect for those wanting the fairytale ‘German castle’ experience.

Is Salzburg worth a day trip from Munich?

Yes, Salzburg is a brilliant day trip from Munich because of its links to Mozart and ridiculously cultural history. Salzburg is also beautiful, and the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is an engaging and visually striking day trip.

What other cities are near Munich?

Augsburg, Nuremberg, and Salzburg are all within a 2-hour radius of Munich. Larger cities in Northern Germany, like Frankfurt, are within a 5-6 hour radius by public transport or car.

How many days are enough to see Munich?

We suggest 4 days when visiting Munich. The city itself can be appreciated in 2-3 days. However, allowing a 4-day itinerary means that you can incorporate a day trip to somewhere like Neuschwanstein Castle, the Bavarian Alps, or Linderhof Palace.

The Final Word

Out of all the German cities you could visit, pat yourself on the back for choosing Munich, because it is just so rich in the way of day trips. Day trips from Munich are a brilliant way to expand your understanding of German history and Munich. And all of these Munich day trip options will complement your visit perfectly. You’ll have a fantastic time, whether you choose a picturesque town like Ingolstadt or a ride up the cable car, or take a guided tour of Linderhof Palace.

Don’t stop at Munich either; if you get a chance, explore more of  Germany’s beautiful cities  and fascinating historical attractions. You could plan a  romantic road trip  over a few days or weeks. Or check out our guide on the  best places to visit when heading to Berlin . Enjoy your visit.

Plan Your Next Trip to Germany With These Resources

• 37 Of The Best Things To Do In Munich, Germany
• 17 Best Castles In Germany To Visit
• The Best Places To Visit In Berlin, Germany
• 21 Beautiful Cities In Germany For Travelers
• 20 Of The Best Things To Do In Bavaria

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Where To Stay in Berlin In 2024: Best Areas And Places

37 Of The Best Things to Do in Munich, Germany

17 Best Castles in Germany To Visit in 2024

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

4 thoughts on “17 Best Day Trips from Munich in 2024”

That’s amazing! Thanks for sharing a superb blog and the good to beat all is the resources for planning trips.

This was an amazing blog and really love those places also those images are seem so nice and superb.

This was a amazing and I love all photos are you add in this blog.

This was looks wonderful art I really like it. And the images are so nice and looks superb.

‎ Germany ‎ > Munich > Best Day & Top Side Trips From Munich

Top 10 Munich Tips | Suggested Itineraries For Munich

• Top 10 Things To Do
• Old Town Walking Tour
• English Garden Walking Tour
• Oktoberfest
• Dachau Memorial
• More Sights
• Overview & Dates
• Top 25 Oktoberfest Tips
• Best Beer Tents
• How To Dress
• Most Popular Songs
• Table Reservations
• Beer and Wine Tips
• History Of Oktoberfest
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Tourist Tips
• Suggested Itineraries for Munich
• Transportation Tips
• Historical Overview

Top Day Trips From Munich:

Because of its central location in Bavaria and Germany’s vast train system, it is easy to take a day trip from Munich to some of the best sights in Europe.  It seems like every time we visit Munich we find a new unbelievable village or castle within a close striking distance.  With Munich as your base camp, the options can feel endless, but we have narrowed down a great list covering all of the best day and side trips.  Hope you enjoy our top day trips from Munich!

Train Tickets & Transportation Info:

1. Neuschwanstein Castle ( 2 Hours & 15 Minutes ):

About Neuschwanstein Castle : Tucked away on the edge of the Alps mountain range, the top day trip from Munich is the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein ( Noy-shvahn-shtine ).  This castle is so impressive that Walt Disney used Neuschwanstein as the model for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in the hit 1959 film as well as his theme parks and company logo.  From the castle’s timeless design and lavish interior to the Alpine setting overlooking a lake, you’ll quickly understand why visitors from all over the world love Neuschwanstein so much.

While Neuschwanstein Castle may look like it is straight out of the Middle Ages, it was actually the work of Bavarian King Ludwig II in the mid-1800s.  Ludwig was inspired by Romanticism, the operas of his friend Richard Wagner, and the former Medieval castle ruins that once stood on the perch where Neuschwanstein was built.  Neuschwanstein ( which means New Swanstone Castle ) is filled with everything from a man-made grotto cave to grand halls, a Byzantine-style throne room, and embellished bedrooms that only a theater mind could drum up.  While touring the inside of this wondrous castle, you’ll see where Ludwig’s imagination and spending both went wild.

One huge added bonus of visiting Neuschwanstein as a day trip from Munich is that you also get to tour King Ludwig’s boyhood castle Hohenschwangau ( Ho-en-shvahn-gau ) which is just downhill from the main attraction.  The bright orange-colored Hohenschwangau Castle was built for the family by Ludwig’s father King Maximilian II and is where the young prince grew up.

Made in the Gothic style, Hohenschwangau Castle was built over the ruins of the former fortress of the Knights of Schwangau .  These knights had controlled the region from the 1100s until 1535 and had three ruined castles, one where Hohenschwangau sits, and two that Ludwig eventually built his masterpiece Neuschwanstein over.  It is said that many of Ludwig’s fantasy castle ideas came from staring up at the remaining ruins as a boy.

Touring both properties during your day trip from Munich is a must as it gives you a lot deeper insight into the secluded life of the King behind what may be Europe’s greatest castle.  In his day, Ludwig was nicknamed the Mad King due to his uncontrolled personal spending on over-the-top building projects.  As time has passed, however, Ludwig has become beloved in Bavaria for the beauty of his projects and Neuschwanstein Castle is now a national treasure.

One of our favorite things to do at Neuschwanstein is to explore Mary’s Bridge ( closed mid-Winter )   which spans a large waterfall behind the Castle.  You’ll get excellent views of the castle’s profile and access to hiking trails for even more viewpoints.  Just as fun as the castles is taking a paddleboat out onto nearby Swan Lake just like the young King Ludwig did in his childhood.   There is even a Summer luge slide within one mile of Neuschwanstein.

Ambitious day-trippers from Munich can also explore the nearby village of Füssen before leaving the area which has a Medieval Archbishop palace and a delightful old town that dates back to Roman times.  If you have a car, you can also consider visiting Mad King Ludwig’s Linderhof Palace on the way back to Munich.

Getting Here From Munich By Train : Take the train directly from Munich to Füssen ( 2:05 ) then either Bus 73 or 78 directly to the Castles’ ticket office ( 0:10 ) from outside the Füssen train station.  Consider getting the Bayern Pass for the train, explained above, to save money which is valid for the round-trip regional train travel all day on weekends or anytime after 9am on weekdays.  By Rental Car : It takes 1:45 by rental car which isn’t necessary just to save you 30 minutes but does give you the flexibility to explore old town Füssen or nearby Linderhof Palace before returning to Munich.

Tour Hours : April to October 15th 9am-6pm; October 16th through March 10am-4pm; Closed on Christmas Eve & Day, New Year’s Eve & Day.  Tour Cost : 13€ for one castle or 25€ for both; free is under 18 years old.  Booking  Tour Tickets : This is the crown jewel of Europe’s fairytale castles and therefore and you need to book your tickets a couple of weeks in advance.  They have a limited number of daily tickets and are usually sellout 2-14 days ahead of time.  We suggest booking 4-5 weeks early to be safe in the Summer or on any weekend.  Tickets must be picked up 90 minutes before your tour time.  Same-Day Tickets : Each day there is a very limited amount of in-person tickets you can buy if you get there when the ticket office opens ( 7:30am in Summer or 8:30am in Winter ).  Every time we have done this our tour time ended up being between 1-3pm and we have heard of people getting there just opening and all the in-person tickets were already gone.  Reservations Phone : +49 (0) 8362-930830.  Official Online Tickets : HERE .

Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : A strong 10 out of 10.

2. Salzburg, Austria ( 1.5-2 Hours ):

About Salzburg :   Known as the home of Mozart and the setting for the hit movie The Sound of Music, compact Salzburg has great Medieval roots that still shine brightly today.  Protected by a mighty castle in the middle of town, Salzburg was originally a Roman city that grew powerful through the Middle Ages thanks to the salt trade.  Salzburg stunning to visit on a few days’ stay in its own right, but because it is less than two hours from Munich it can also make for an excellent day trip.

During your day trip from Munich to Salzburg, you will be carried away by the music of Mozart and tunes from the Sound of Music as you stroll the cobblestone lanes.  While there seems to always be a festival going on, the vibe of the city is definitely driving by classic music, alpine culture, and gorgeous architecture.  Because of Salzburg’s wealth from the salt trade, most of the city was rebuilt in the 1500s in the Baroque style and preserved after they basically bought their way out of the 30 Years War.

There seems to be an impressive church on every corner, fountains everywhere you turn, and Salzburg has some of the best shopping in Central Europe. You can really see the Medieval roots of this compact pedestrian street by the signage that hangs above each shop.  In the Middle Ages, almost no one could read so instead of having signs with business names on them, the shops would hang an icon for their trade of craft.  Notice how the signs for the hat maker, locksmith, umbrella shop, and many more have kept this signage tradition alive.

One of the biggest surprises for most visitors seeking to find where the “Hills Are Alive” is how impressive Salzburg’s High Fortress is.  The massive castle ( started in 1077 ) is one of the best urban castles to visit in all of Europe and is our #1 favorite to visit in Austria.  From the castle, you can get a feel for Salzburg’s important trade position at the foot of the Alps.  With mountains on one side and the village pinned between the Salzach River on the other, you’ll also see how the Prince-Archbishops ruled Salzburg through Medieval Times.  At one point Salzburg was the 2nd largest church-state in Europe behind the Vatican.

We especially love visiting Salzburg for the traditional Austrian food and local beer.  Between the hometown Stiegl brewery and the Medieval Augustiner Monks Brewery, there are plenty of great drinks for any tourist.  If you plan ahead you can even get tickets for the evening Mozart Dinner Concert inside Saint Peter’s Keller which is the oldest Restaurant in Europe dating back to 803 before returning to Munich.

Top Things to do : Old Town Walking Tour , Sound of Music Movie Locations Tour .   Getting Here From Munich : Takes 90-120 minutes from Munich by train which is covered by the money-saving Bayern Pass using the Blue & Yellow Meridan trains although the pass cannot be used on weekdays before 9am.  If you are leaving from Munich’s airport you can reach Salzburg in 2-2.5 hours with an easy connection in Munich Ost Station instead of the Central Station.   Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 9 out of 10.  If you are able to swing staying overnight in Salzburg a visit bumps up to a 10 out of 10.

View Our Salzburg Section : ( HERE ).

3. Dachau Concentration Camp ( 21-38 Minutes ):

About Dachau Concentration Camp : Reachable in less than 30 minutes from central Munich, the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial is one of the most powerful day trips to take from Munich.  As the Nazis’ first forced labor camp, the Dachau Memorial is now a chilling reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust.  Overall the site does a great job serving as an outstanding museum and memorial for life as it was in the camp and the hardships endured here.

During your day trip to Dachau from Munich, you will learn about the torture that took place here, the background stories of some of the prisoners, and the propaganda used to cover it all up.  The excellent exhibits are all detailed in English plus there are daily guided tours available in English every day.  The main buildings you will see including the former barracks, the ghostly crematorium, the supposedly never used gas chamber, and the famous Work Will Set You Free Gate.  The thing that will stick with you the most is a saying posted, in multiple languages, in the center courtyard stating ‘Never Again.’

Getting Here From Munich : It takes 21-38 minutes from Munich Station to reach the memorial including a transfer to Bus 726 at Dachau Station.  We have a full guide on How To Get To Dachau From Munich including tips on the route and how to save money using day passes.   Visiting Hours : Daily 9am-5pm. Cost : Free.  Tours : Paid tours in English are at 11am & 1pm ( plus 12:15pm on weekends in Summer ) and there are also audio guides available.  Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 9 out of 10.

View Our Dachau Section : HERE .

4. Rothenburg, Germany ( 2.5 Hours ):

About Rothenburg :  The quaint German village of Rothenburg seems frozen in time, Medieval times that is.  Known as the Imperial City, Rothenburg was once home to the King of Germany ( Conrad III – 1142 ) before becoming a trading powerhouse but eventually got stuck in the 1600s have as the local economy collapsed during the 30 Years War.  This downslide help preserved Rothenburg from modernization and today there probably isn’t a more authentic feeling Medieval village in Europe from top to bottom which makes it a great side trip from Munich.  Ideally, you will stay overnight in Rothenburg a few nights since it is over two hours from Munich, but you can still see a lot on a long day trip.

Rothenburg is packed full of Medieval city gates, half-timber homes, cobbled streets, splashes of color, secret passageways, amazing festivals, and postcard-perfect views including the famous Plönlein Corner.  The old city wall still stands circling the village while trying with all of its might to encapsulate Rothenburg’s magical feel.  You feel like you left the real world and stepped onto a movie set.  Having been the inspiration for many Disney movies ( plus Chitty Chitty Bang Bang ), in some ways Rothenburg really is a living film set.

Once you wrap your head around Rothenburg’s beauty, you’ll find there is actually a lot to do here as well.  We love touring the Imperial City Museum, the famous Medieval Criminal Museum, the Germann Christmas Museum, the entertaining 1 hour Night Watchman’s Tour in the evening, and walking on top of the old city wall.  Throw in an old Blacksmith shop, a lively market square, plus great family-owned pubs, and you’ll feel like you have traveled hundreds of years into the past in no time.

All of these elements together make Rothenburg the Medieval destination for you if you are looking for fun, authenticity, and some small-town flair.  A visit gets even more magical if you can stay overnight as you will be able to see the village totally free of other tourists in the early morning and again after dinner time.  If you are really lucky you can time your day from Munich to be during Rothenburg’s Imperial City Days in the Fall or the magical Christmas Market which has been happening each December since the 1400s.

Getting To Rothenburg By Train : Trains make this journey in each direction about every half hour from Munich with departures ranging from 4:30am until 10pm. The trip is very easy but will require 1-2 train transfers depending on your ticket.  Getting To Rothenburg By Car : It is very common to rent a car to drive to Rothenburg from Munich as it’s faster than the train ( especially from the airport ), but it also gives you the ability to check out other Romantic Road cities such as Dinkelsbuhl and Nordlingen along the way.  Tour groups also make the full-day round trip journey but don’t give you a ton of time in each village.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 8.5 out of 10; only negative is the total travel time, but with an overnight stay it is a 10 out of 10.

View Our Rothenburg Section :  HERE .

5. Berchtesgaden, Germany ( 2.5 Hours ):

About Berchtesgaden :   Berchtesgaden has been a retreat for kings, monks, and travelers since the early 1100s at it still retains much of its old-world charm.  Whether it is the Deer House ( Hirschenhaus ) on Marktplatz , the storybook Advent Christmas Town over the holidays, or a visit to a beer hall during Oktoberfest , you’ll fall in love with Berchtesgaden.  Sitting right next to Old Town is the  Berchtesgaden Salt Mine ( Salzbergwerk ) which is a tourist favorite and has been in operation since 1517.  No visit to the region would be complete without visiting a salt mine as it is how many of the towns like Berchtesgaden and Salzburg got rich starting in the 1100s.

Perched above Berchtesgaden is a pair of reminders of the atrocities from WII, the Nazi Documentation Center and Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest .  During WII, Hitler built the mighty Eagle’s Nest as his 2nd seat of power after being inspired by the area’s beauty.  Today mini fortress serves as a restaurant sitting high enough above the valley floor to give visitors a 120-mile view on a clear day!  Combined with the Documentation Center you will be able to learn a lot of history as well as check out some old WW2 bunkers and even take a high-speed elevator up the mountain.

Before leaving your alpine elevation, make sure to check out the views of Königssee from above at Jennerbahn Mountain .  The Mountain also has great skiing, but it is the lake below that interests us more. If you have time, a ride out onto Königssee can put your trip over the top.  You’ll not only cruse between tower peaks and through an echo chamber, but also past the is the triple-domed St. Bartholomä Chapel .  Either way you slice it, Berchtesgaden is one of the best-hidden gems in all of Germany.

Getting To Berchtesgaden From Munich : You can take the train directly to Berchtesgaden from Munich with a quick line switch in Freilassing. Berchtesgaden is best seen either on the way to or from Salzburg to which is connected by bus only 12 miles away. This will help you maximize your travels.

Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 8.5 out of 10. While small, the best sights in Berchtesgaden are a little spread out so we suggest seeing it either right before or after spending the night in nearby Salzburg so you aren’t cutting your time short in this amazing city.  From Salzburg, it is easily a 9 of 10 rating.

View Our Berchtesgaden Section : HERE .

6. Zugspitze Peak & Eibsee, Germany ( 2.5 Hours ):

About Zugspitze : At 9,718 feet ( 2,962 meters ), the Zugspitze Mountain Peak near Garmisch-Partenkirchen is literally the top of Germany!  As the tallest peak in Germany , the Zugspitze has the best Alpine views and downhill skiing you can find during a day trip from Munich.  It’s said that on a clear day you can see up to 155 miles ( 250 kilometers ) along the horizon.  This view spans some 400 mountain peaks in Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland).

Because the main peak sits on the border of Austria, you can be in two countries at once while on top of the mountain with one foot in Bavaria and the other in Tirol.  Aside from the stunning views, our favorite activity at Zugspitze is the Summer Snow Sledding .  From June through September you can sled down a gently sloped toboggan run at the peak which is free to use.

There is also another great mountain peak right next to Zugspitze called the Alpspitze.  This peak offers great opportunities for hiking as well as thrills from the AlpspiX viewing platform .  The daring platform is in the shape of an ‘X’ and hangs over the valley 3281 feet below.  We prefer to visit Zugspitze first then visit Alpspitze on our way back to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

One of the coolest things about visiting Zugspitze Mountain is that you have to transfer trains in nearby Garmisch-Partenkirchen which is a tourist hotspot.  This tiny village at the foot of the Alps is known for its rustic homes with murals painted on their facades, excellent woodworkers, and great souvenir shopping.  The village can feel a bit tacky, but it is cool t stroll through before you return to Munich from your day trip.

Getting Here From Munich : Train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen takes 8o minutes.  Once you get there walk to the neighboring train station ( Zugspitze Bahnhof ) and get on the local Cogwheel Train to your desired cable car lift.  The Cogwheel will take 40 minutes to Eibsee Station or 75 minutes to the end up at the Zugspitze Glacier.  From either stop, it is a 10-minute cable car ride up to the main observation deck.  We like to go up one way and back the other.  The cable car section from Eibsee to the main peak is a world record holder rising over 6381 feet (1,945 meters).

Keep in mind that the Classic Train is also an option from Garmisch, but it only goes to Grainau which is fine for visiting Alpspitze but for Zugspitze, you need to take the Cogwheel Train.  The cable car for the AlpspiX is at Alpspitzbahn and the cable car for Zugspitze is at Eibsee.  While Eibsee is the last main stop, hikers can ride the Cog up the Rifferlriss to get closer.   Video : HERE .   Website : HERE .

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich :  8 out of 10.

7. Nuremberg, Germany ( 90 Minutes ):

About Nuremberg :   Before heavy WW2 bombings for being a Nazi stronghold, Nuremberg ( Nürnberg ) was one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe.  Luckily enough of the city remained that Nuremberg has slowly rebuilt itself over the decades into a great tourist destination yet again.  We like to start off with the city’s biggest attraction, the Kaiserburg Imperial Castle which dates back to 1050 AD.

The Castle sits at the highest point of Nuremberg which created a natural defense and still provides great views of the town.  All the Holy Roman Emperors stayed at the Imperial Castle for a short period at least between 1050 and 1571.  The historic castle looks plainer than some of Germany’s other over-the-top castles which were built later in the Middle Ages, but we enjoy the old feel.  Today, one of the best youth hostels in Europe sits inside the Medieval castle’s former horse stables.

That same old-world feel carries into the city wall and watchtowers, plus the picture-perfect Craftsmen’s Courtyard.  Built into the city wall is our favorite buildings called the Wine Store ( Weinstadel ) .  The beautiful building overlooks the water and is connected to the town by Hangman’s Bridge .  The bridge and tower were constructed in the 1400s as a place for the Nuremberg executioner to live as the common people didn’t want someone of his profession living among them.  It was really a strange arrangement, but interesting.  You have to make sure to stroll down Weißbergergasse in Old Town and check out Saint Elisabeth Church which was once home to the Knights of Germany as well.  Not to be overlooked in Old Town is the food and especially the Original Nuremberg Rostbratwursts which have been made here since the 1300s.  The best way to wash down your wursts is with Nuremberg’s best beer on the City Brewery Beer Tour .  The 3-hour tour is only 25 Euros and is lead by a Medieval innkeeper who teaches you about the 700 years of beer in the city complete with tastings.

While these sights are the happy-go-lucky ones it is also important to know about Nuremberg’s Nazi years .  One of the most moving sights is in the former Nazi rally grounds where 100,000s would gather for rallies. The grounds were later used by the Nazis as a concentration camp for over 50,000 Socialists and now holds the Fascination and Terror Museum . There is also a monument marking the Nuremberg Trials, where Nazi leaders were put on trial for the horrors of WW2. When you are all done with doom and gloom Nuremberg has plenty more historic sights and mansions to tour on top of having one of the best Medieval Christmas Markets in Europe. If it is not over the Holiday season you can still get your Christmas on in the wonder Toy museum at Nuremberg has been famous for its toys since the middle ages

Getting Here From Munich : Direct train from Munich to Nuremberg takes 75-90 minutes.   Tourism Website : HERE .

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 8.5 out of 10.

8. Bamberg, Germany ( 2-2.5 Hours ):

About Bamberg :   Bamberg is known as Little Venice, and for good reason.  The Regnitz River literally runs directly through Bamberg and the Old Town Hall sits right in the middle of the flow.  As seen in the photo to the left, they actually built the Old Town Hall ( Alte Rathaus ) in the middle of the river and connected to town with a series of bridges.  The build is the most photographed spot in Bamberg, but it is the impressive murals painted on the sides of the Old Town Hall that we really like.  Most of the town hugs the riverbank making renting a rowboat a very popular thing to do.  A lot of the island-like city center was once a fisherman’s settlement in the Middle Ages and has been turned into a great pedestrian-only area today.

Getting beyond the buildings and sights, Bamberg is really a city known for its beer .  There are 9 breweries, 2 malting companies, 50 local beers, and tons of taverns just inside the city limits.  If you go out a couple of miles there are 90 more breweries in the small towns around Bamberg.  The most famous beer in Bamberg is Smoke Beer , which tastes like bacon.  Unlike most beers where the malt is dried industrially by hot air, the malt for the Smoke Beer is kiln-dried over an open fire to add flavor.  The BierSchmecker Beer Tour is awesome as you vouchers for drinks at your choice of 5 of the 9 breweries for only 20 euros, plus you keep your mug.  If you are deciding what time to go July hosts the International Magician and Street Performers’ Festival which really brings Old Town to life.  In August is our favorite event called the Sandkirchweih Fair .  During the Sandkerwa Festival, fishermen joust on the river standing on the end of their boats American Gladiator-style.

Getting Here From Munich : A direct train from Munich takes 2 hours ( 2.5 with a connection ) or from Nuremberg it is only 1 hour.  Tourism Website : HERE .

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 8 out of 10.

9. Herrenchiemsee New Palace & Lake ( 1 Hour 45 Minutes ):

About Herrenchiemsee New Palace : The Herrenchiemsee New Palace is a replica of Paris’ Versailles Palace and is another one of Mad King Ludwig’s extravagant properties to make our top day trips from Munich list.  This grand project was almost scrapped when King Ludwig’s plot of land at Linderhof Palace was too small, but lucky his family acquired a large island in the middle of Chiemsee Lake to build it on.  Although Ludwig died two before Herrenchiemsee was completed, his vision for this masterpiece lives on today.  While there are still plenty of tourists, the crowds here are much less than other major castles in Germany which makes it easy to enjoy.  If you have ever been to the real Versailles, then you will really love the uncrowded replica of the Great Hall of Mirrors and boulevard like French gardens.

Getting Here From Munich : 1-hour train to Prien a Chiemsee, then 30 minutes later the boat leaves from the pier which takes 15 minutes to get to the Palace. During the Summer a shuttle line takes you to the boat dock saving you a 1/2 mile walk, but there is a 30-minute gap from getting off of the train until the boat leaves. Click here for the boat timetable.  If you are looking to only visit the lake and beach instead of the palace, then you can get a train ticket to the village of Übersee on the southside of Chiemsee

Stopover on the way to Salzburg :  It is a great stop on the way to or from Salzburg from Munich but with the ferry ride and layover it adds 90 minutes to the total route to Salzburg in addition to the time doing the tour so you need to account for an extra 3-3.5 hours on your journey.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7.5 out of 10.  Website : HERE .

10. Linderhof Palace ( 2 Hours ):

About Linderhof Palace :   At the same time Mad King Ludwig was building his fairytale castle near Füssen, he had plans for many other expansive building projects as well.  On some family land near Oberammergausd, Ludwig created the design for a palace modeled on Paris’ Versailles plus another large complex in the style of a Byzantine Palace.  At the last second, he decided to fix up his dad’s old cabin on the property in a royal hunting lodge instead due to a lack of space.  The end result was an amazing hunting palace with a beautiful garden with an unreal series of fountain ponds.

As the tourist tend to flock to Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle in Füssen, the crowds at Linderhof are smaller, making it a very enjoyable place to walk around.  The area is also a great place to jump over to Ettal Abbey or down to Zugspitze Mountain.

Getting Here From Munich : Take the train to Oberammergau ( 1 Hour and 45 Minutes ) then take local Bus 9606 directly to Linderhof Palace ( 22 Minutes ).   Getting Here From Füssen : From Füssen, Bus 9622 connects all the way to Oberammergau where you can hop onto Bus 9606 for the Palace.   Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7 out of 10.   Website : HERE .

Honorable Mention Day Trips:

11. regensburg, germany ( 90 minutes ):.

About Regensburg : Locals call it “Germany’s medieval wonder”.  Pretty small but the Cathedral of St Peter, the Stone Bridge, the Bridge Tower, and the ‘Salt Barn’ is cool.  Famous for torture. Locals call it “Germany’s Medieval wonder”.  It was settled by the Celts in the Stone Age and around AD 90, the Romans built a fort there.  In 179, a new Roman fort Castra Regina and it served as the Roman’s most Northern fort on the Danube.  The city became the capital of Bavaria  from 530-1180AD.  The Duke of Bavaria, Heinrich II of Babenberg, was ousted as ruler in 1156, and quickly went on to lay the groundwork for a new city built over another former Roman fort known today as Vienna which he modeled after his beloved Regensburg.  When the Wittelsbachs were appointed the new rulers of Bavaria in 1180, they decided to move the capital to Munich.

City Website :  ( here ).   Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7 out of 10.

12. Würzburg, Germany ( 2 Hours & 15 Minutes ):

About Würzburg : Northwest of Munich a long way, but really cool.  Prince-bishops’ Residenz Palace and Marienberg Citadel are the main highlights.  The UNESCO World Heritage Site the Residence , the medieval fortress Marienberg, the historic town hall building the Romanesque cathedral “St. Kilian”, from the old bridge “Alte Mainbrücke”, you will enjoy fantastic views of the fortress “Marienberg,” the pilgrimage church “Käppele” and the famous vineyards.  The nearby town of Volkach has the Historic Schwane wine cellars. http://www.schwane.de http://www.wuerzburg.de/

Getting Here : The train from Munich takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.  Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 7 out of 10; if you are going to go this far toward Frankfurt, you might as well see Frankfurt instead.

13. Landsberg am Lech, Germany ( 50 Minutes ):

About Landsberg am Lech : This small medieval city is a great getaway if you want to experience an authentic Bavarian feel without the flocks of tourists.  Large portions of the Medieval city walls and gates are still intact plus most of the city’s buildings still have colorful, traditional facades.  We especially love to visit the riverside Landsberg am Lech as a day trip from Munich because it is littered with many beautiful Medieval towers  which feel like they could be Rapunzel’s fairytale house.

Among the towers is the Schmalzturm Tower, also called Beautiful Tower, which lies in the Witches Quarter ( Hexenviertel ) was named for its beautiful tiled roof and is the cities oldest tower built in 1260.  The romantic Mother’s Tower ( Mutterturm) at the Herkomer Museum on the West side of the river is the newest built in 1888.  This is one of the towers you can actually go inside.  There is also the beautiful Bayertor Tower on the Eastern city wall, and the Northern wall’s gate has Sandauer Tor and the tall Dachlturm tower overlooking the village.

The village is maybe most famous for being where Adolf Hitler was imprisoned for 9 months in 1924 following his failed Beer Hall Pusch in Munich.  It was in this jail where he wrote/dictated the first half of his book Mein Kampf ( finished in Berchtesgaden ) which later served as a foundation for the Nazi Party.  Like many cities in Germany, Landsberg am Lech ended up being home to a large concentration camp during World War II.  Lucky today the horrors of the past was well behind Landsberg am Lech and you can explore the various towers as a day trip from Munich pretending like you are looking for Rapunzel.

Getting Here : Train from Munich takes 50 minutes and often requires a train transfer in Kaufering.  Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 6.5 out of 10.

14. Esslingen, Germany ( 2 Hours and 15 Minutes ):

About Esslingen : At just 9 miles ( 15km ) away from Stuttgart, Esslingen is one of the little gems of Germany that most tourists don’t even know about.  This little village is so untouched by the hoards of tourists that we almost left it off this top day trips from Munich list just so we could keep it all to ourselves.

First mentioned in 777, this little village gained market rights in 866 which was very early compared to most German cities.  After becoming a Free Imperial City in 1229 Esslingen flourished thanks to its Neckar River toll bridge and position on numerous trade routes.  The trade industry is highlighted by Esslinged Castle which is a section of the fortified wall that encircles a large sloped grape vineyard on the edge of town.  Started in the 1300s, the fact that they went to such great lengths to protect sections of crops shows how important they were.  Today this “castle” offers a great chance to walk along a covered Medieval town wall and offers the best views in Esslingen.

The most iconic attraction in Esslingen is the Gothic Town Hall which dates back to the 1420s.  Located on the main square, the salmon-colored facade of the Town Hall is highlighted by an astronomical clock from 1592.  Esslingen is also jammed packed with over 200 half-timber homes and many churches including one with foundations dating to the 800s which you can tour the excavations of.  Walking along the riverfront with the Medieval half-timber houses to us feels like visiting Bamberg, Germany which is also on our best day trips from Munich list.

Rating as a Side Trip From Munich : 6.5 out of 10.

15. Innsbruck, Austria ( 2 Hours ):

About Innsbruck : Known as the city of the Golden Roof, and the Tirolean capital, Innsbruck is the only major city located in the European Alps.  Innsbruck is best known for its winter sports and skiing as it hosted the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games.  There are mainly other year-round attractions such as Ambras Castle, great shopping, a number of beautiful lakes, and the world’s largest crystal at Swarovski’s Crystal Factory.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 6 out of 10; if you are into downhill skiing then it is a 10 out of 10 in the Winter.

16. Wendelstein Mountain ( 1.5-2 Hours ):

About Wendelstein Peak : The Wendelstein is 1,838-meters high is the easiest accessible Alpine peak from Munich.  The summit can be easily accessed either with the cable car from Osterhofen or the rack railway from Brannenburg.  Overall we still prefer to visit either Zugspitze near Garmisch-Partenkirchen or Jennar Peak near Berchtesgaden as a day trip from Munich since both have more to do around them, but Wendelstein still has some great views.

About 100 meters below the summit is the Berggasthof Inn with a large terrace serving hot and cold meals.  On the summit, there is a viewing platform offering an excellent view of the northern Alps and of Bavaria, an observatory, a weather station, and a broadcast relay station.  Easy hiking trails lead from the valley up to the summit of Wendelstein Mountain.  In Winter it is possible to ski on the slopes of Mount Edelstein.

Getting Here : 80 min train ride to Osterhofen-Bayrischzell and take a brief walk to the Cable Car which climbs almost 1,000 feet in 7 minutes -or- you could instead take a 60-minute train Brannenburg from which it’s a 30-minute scenic walk to the Cog Railway which takes you directly to the summit within 30 minutes on a very unique, fun, and steep ride.   Hours :  9am-5pm in Summer, 10am-4pm in Winter.   Brochure :   HERE .   360 Degree Photo :   HERE .   Tip : You can get an upgraded Bayern Pass with a combo that includes round-trip train to/from Munich and the cable car.

17. Ulm, Germany ( 90 Minutes ):

About Ulm : In Medieval times, Ulm was a jewel of a village and although 80% of the town was ruined in WW2, it was once again become an enjoyable place to visit.  While much of Ulm has been rebuilt, there are still a large number of surviving half-timber homes scattered around the city.  Some of the homes date back to the 1400s and they are denser in the Fisherman’s Quarter which is very picturesque.  We can only imagine how amazing Ulm was in Medieval times when it would have more closely resembled villages like Colmar, France.

As you walk around Ulm you will also see numerous sections of Medieval wall and preserved towers that once protected the city.  From the same era, the Ulm Cathedral or Minster is the main attraction in the town today.  Started in 1377, the Ulm Minster still was still the 5th tallest building in the world in the year 1900s and still has the tallest true steeple out of any church.  The steeple is so large that from the ground it almost looks wider than the height of the church’s nave.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 5 out of 10.  Expect your visit to mainly be a visit to the cathedral and a stroll through the Fisherman’s Quarter.

18. Herrsching & Lake Ammer ( 50 Minutes ):

About Herrsching : Sitting on the shores of Lake Ammer, Herrsching is the best place to visit a beach as a day trip from Munich.  Even if you aren’t looking to swim or lounge on the beach, Herrsching can still be a very relaxing place to visit and from Munich, it only takes 50 minutes to get here.  You can have a wonderful time simply strolling the paved waterfront trail, having lunch by the lake, and visiting the famous Little Castle ( Kurparkschlössl ).  Built in 1888 by the artist Ludwig Scheuermann, the red and white Little Castle was built in the style of Italian noble homes.  Today the mansion is owned by the city and part of a park which you are free to visit.

Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 5.5 out of 10.  Definitely the top of the list if you are looking for a beach near Munich although Chiemsee is also wonderful.

19. Landshut, Germany ( 45 Minutes ):

About Landshut : Landshut is an ideal Bavarian day trip from Munich.  The highlights of Landshut are its Trausnitz Castle ( website )and multicolored home facades.  The main reason it makes this list is that every 4 years it is home to the 3-week-long Royal Wedding Festival ( website , Landshuter Hochzeit ) which in 2009 drew 600,000 visitors.  The festival is to celebrate a royal wedding between Bavaria and Poland in 1475 and serves as a living history as most visitors dress in Medieval Dress and the town’s people reenact the original wedding.  Home to the largest European Middle Ages festival which celebrates the marriage of Duke George and Hedwig, the daughter of the king of Poland each summer with the next one being 2021.

Getting Here : The train from Munich takes 45 minutes and is direct.   Rating as a Day Trip From Munich : 4 out of 10; but during the Wedding Festival every 4 years it is a 10 out of 10.

Longer Side Trips From Munich:

Here are a couple great places not too far from Munich that may be worth a night or two stay over.

Accessible In 3-5 Hours :  Hallstatt ( Austria ); Vienna ( Austria ); Prague ( Czech Republic ); Berlin ( Germany ); Frankfurt ( Germany ); Heidelberg ( Germany ). Accessible By Night Train : Budapest ( Hungary ); Rome ( Italy ); Florence ( Italy ); Amsterdam ( Netherlands ); Paris ( France ).

Featured Article

Sign Up For Our Newsletter For Free Travel Tips

Email Address *

Disclaimer: Information on this page and in our walking tours were deemed accurate when published, however, details such as opening hours, rates, transportation, visa requirements, and safety can change without notice. Please check with any destinations directly before traveling.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Day Trips from Munich

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on May 20, 2024

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, was founded by a group of Benedictine monks who settled in the rich farming area that was close to Catholic Italy. In 1175 Munich formally became a city. It was eventually destroyed by allied bombing during World War II. After the war, the Bayern set to work and rebuilt this remarkable place. There are many interesting things to see in the city itself including the famous Glockenspiel. The metropolis also hosts the famous Oktoberfest celebration each year.

Hemmingway said of Munich, “You needn’t bother going anywhere else. I can tell you: you can’t beat Munich, everything else in Germany is a waste of time.” Apparently, he overlooked the day trips from Munich to some of Bavaria’s most famous historical sites.

10. Nuremberg

The second largest city in Bavaria is rich with medieval architecture. With its ancient Kaiserburg Castle and old churches in the Altstadt, the city’s history goes back a long way; it was considered the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire.

Nuremberg was also the location of Nazi rallies; the starting point of the boycott of Jewish businesses and the trials at which Nazis were held accountable after WW2. Following its almost complete destruction by allied forces, the city was painstakingly rebuilt.

Nowadays, Nuremberg is a fun and energetic town to visit – especially over the Christmas period due to its magically festive Christmas Market. Not only the place for seasonal celebrations, Nuremberg’s historical streets are packed full of charming cafes and old pubs, where locals and visitors rub shoulders over a local beer.

Getting to Nuremberg

• To get to Nuremberg from Munich< couldn't be easier as you simply need to hop on an hour-long direct train that will take you from the heart of one city to the center of the other.
• While getting there by public transport is very simple and quick, another great option to see as much of the city as possible is by taking a guided tour as this will teach you all about Nuremberg’s history while taking you around all of its main sights. See prices

9. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Tucked away down in Southern Bavaria, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is nestled in the arms of the Bavarian Alps. Naturally, it’s the perfect spot for a little bit of skiing. It’s also home to Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitse, which towers above everything at 2,962 meters above sea level.

Summertime pursuits include swimming in the Eibsee and hiking in the hills. Split into two parts, Garmisch is the relatively more modern side of town, whilst wandering around the eastern portion of Partenkirchen is the perfect opportunity to soak up traditional Bavarian architecture. Here you can see wood carvings and Lüftlmalereien, traditional Bavarian fresco paintings.

Getting to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

• As a direct train runs from Munich Central Station it usually takes around an hour and fifteen minutes to get to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, so in no time at all, you’ll find yourself immersed in nature.
• For an easy and stress-free visit to one of Germany’s most incredible landscapes, you may want to consider taking a tour. This not only includes a cable car ride up Zugspitze but also transport to and from the site. See prices

8. Regensburg

You’ll find the Bavarian city of Regensburg nestled at the confluence of three rivers: the Danube, Naab, and Regen all meet here. That riverside location makes for a perfect slice of picturesque beauty, especially with the Gothic spires of the wonderfully ornate 13th century Regensburg Cathedral peeking out above everything else.

The medieval part of Regensburg is definitely a major draw, but there are also Roman ruins here. The city sustained little damage from the bombings at the end of World War II, and offers visitors the unique opportunity to study the unbroken past of this town.

Getting to Regensburg

• As trains directly from Munich to Regensburg only take an hour and a half, the beautiful Bavarian city makes for a fantastic day out.
• With so much history on offer in Regensburg, a guided tour is one of the best ways to see as much of the city as possible. See prices

7. Herrenchiemsee

Located in southern Bavaria and set on the Herreninsel, the biggest of the islands on the large Chiemsee Lake – Herrenchiemsee – is a sprawling network of royal buildings. A day spent at the palace complex is one packed full of interesting architectural and historical delights.

The palace was built by King Ludwig II in the 19th century, to reflect the glory of Louis XIV, the Sun King of France. On a backdrop of lakes and mountains, the interior of the palace oozes opulence, as it drips with gold and glistening glass decorations – there’s even a grand Hall of Mirrors akin to that at Versaille.

Getting to Herrenchiemsee

• Herrenchiemsee lies just an hour and a half away from Munich by public transport. Visitors must first take an hour-long train to Prien am Chiemsee, then embark on a fifteen-minute scenic boat trip to Herrenchiemsee.
• If you’re looking to gain a deeper insight and understanding into the history surrounding Herrenchiemsee, you may want to consider taking a guided tour around the palace. Tours often combine a visit to the island with a stop at the Benedictine monastery on nearby Fraueninsel Island, and a scenic boat trip on the lake. See prices

6. Berchtesgaden

Set in the Bavarian Alps, Berchtesgaden is a town plentiful in beautiful, mountainous scenery; there’s absolutely no shortage of that. In fact, just to the south of this town is a unique place where you can admire the view: the Eagle’s Nest, which was Adolf Hitler’s alpine retreat.

Martin Bormann had it built, and gave it to Hitler for his 50th birthday. In spite of that, Hitler did not spend a great deal of time there. It’s now a restaurant and museum. Nearby, there’s the Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden, where you can learn all about the 500-year-old salt mine.

Getting to Berchtesgaden

• Lying next to the border with Austria, Berchtesgaden makes for a popular day trip, and there are a number of ways for you to get there. Taking the train there is comfortable and convenient, although it does usually take two or three hours. This is because you must first catch a train to Salzburg before changing for Berchtesgaden.
• Another option is to take a tour to Berchtesgaden; this is a popular option amongst many visitors to Munich as it combines a visit to the famous Eagle’s Nest with a trip to the stunning scenery of the Bavarian Alps. See prices

5. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This medieval town is one of the stops on the Romantic Road, which is a trail that features a number of interesting places to visit. It is approximately at the half-way point between Frankfurt and Munich.

Rothenburg is a walled town that has remained intact down through the years. It is famous for being the most German town in Germany. During World War II the Nazi leaders habitually took people on day trips to show them this model village. It is also famous for the stores that carry Christmas items all year round and for having an outstanding Christmas market each December.

Getting to Rothenburg

• From Munich, it generally takes around three hours and fifteen minutes by train to get to Rothenburg ob der Tauber; this involves a couple of transfers.
• To make the most of their trip along the Romantic Road, many people take a tour which combines a visit to Rothenburg ob der Tauber with a stop at Harburg Castle. See prices

Less than twenty kilometers from Munich, Dachau is a short day trip from the Bavarian capital. Dating back to the 9th century AD, the city has a long history but is best known for being the location of the former Dachau Concentration Camp . Originally intended to hold political prisoners, it was here that eventually tens and thousands of persecuted people, including Jews, were killed by the Nazi regime.

Established in 1933, Dachau was, in fact, the first of the many concentration camps eventually set up in Nazi-held territory. Today, there’s a memorial center and museum, as well as an art gallery.

Getting to Dachau

• Getting to Dachau from Munich by public transport couldn’t be simpler; the S-Bahn train will whisk you there in around ten to twenty minutes.
• To gain an insight into the horrifying events of the Holocaust and World War II, many visitors to Munich opt to take a guided tour to Daschau Concentration Camp Memorial Site. See prices

3. Linderhof Palace

The Linderhof Palace was the only castle out of three that Ludwig completed in his lifetime. His intended to spruce up the already existing lodge, but ended with a scaled down version of Versailles Palace.

Of special interest are the Hall of Mirrors and the Peacock Bedroom. He lived in seclusion in this palace hideaway for much of his life. In honor of Wagner, Ludwig built a fantasy grotto partway up the mountain behind the palace based upon Wagner’s opera, Tannhäuser.

Getting to Linderhof Palace

• While it is relatively easy to drive to Linderhof Palace yourself, a lot of people decide to take a tour from Munich for all the extra features that it provides. Many tours combine a visit to Linderhof Palace with a stop at the beautiful Neuschwanstein castle that lies nearby. See prices

2. Salzburg

Located just across the border in Austria, Salzburg is probably best known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With its iconic historic center bursting with Baroque buildings, there are a lot of sights to soak up in Salzburg. Ride the funicular or hike to the top of Hohensalzburg Fortress, which dates back to 1077.

The fortress is an icon of the city and offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. For those seeking to relive scenes from the movie “The Sound of Music”, must-see attractions include the 17th-century Baroque Mirabell Palace and Gardens and the von Trapp family home, which is now a hotel.

Getting to Salzburg

• By train, it takes between an hour and a half to two hours to reach Salzburg .
• To make the most of your time in the city, you may want to consider taking a guided tour. See prices

1. Neuschwanstein

Neuschwanstein, Ludwig’s fairy tale castle, is set on a hill above the village (and castle) of Hohenschwangau. It is one of the most visited castles in Europe. Walt Disney used it as a model for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in Disneyland. Ludwig paid tribute to Wagner in this castle as well with the furnishings and by naming the castle after Wagner’s opera, the Swan Knight. The Singer’s Hall is the entire fourth floor where the walls display images that point to Wagner’s works.

Slightly to the south of Neuschwanstein is another beautiful castle; Schloss Hohenschwangau. Maximillian II, father of Ludwig II, discovered Hohenschwangau Castle when he was still the Crown Prince. The vicinity in which he found it pleased him immensely. In spite of it being in ruins, he bought the castle and had it renovated. With two popular castles nearby, the town of Füssen is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from Munich.

For visitors wanting to check out the fabulous Neuschwanstein Castle, there are a couple of important things to note before looking at travel options. First of all, visitors need to stop off at Hohenschwangau to buy their tickets to the castle at the Ticket Center . In the summer months, it is a good idea to book tickets in advance online as the place will be heaving with visitors and you may end up waiting a long time to buy tickets. In addition to this, the only way to enter the stunning castle is if you opt to go on a guided tour.

Getting to Neuschwanstein Castle

• From Munich you can simply take the train to Fussen railway station, which takes around two hours. From there, it is a short ten-minute bus journey to Hohenschwangau Neuschwanstein Castles, Schwangau – the nearest stop to the castle itself and the place where you need to buy your tickets. After that you can either take a short shuttle bus or Disney-esque horse-drawn carriage ride to the castle.
• To avoid the hassle of getting there yourself, you can always opt to take a tour to Neuschwanstein and its surrounding sights. One popular option is to combine both Neuschwanstein and the nearby Linderhof into one package. See prices

Map of day trips from Munich

Share this post:

A Picture Perfect Day Trip to Salzburg from Munich

10 Top Destinations in Southern Germany

How to Travel from Munich to Vienna

20 Top Tourist Attractions in Munich

8 Most Beautiful Castles Near Munich

Best Time to Visit Munich: Month-by-Month Guide

Top Things To Do In Neuschwanstein: Germany’s Fairytale Icon

Where to stay in Munich: 7 Best Neighborhoods

17 Best Places to Visit in Bavaria, Germany

7 Things to do in Rothenburg: Day Trip from Munich

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Munich   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Michael Fellner | Getty Images

24 Essential Things to Do in Munich, Germany ( + Day Trips)

Munich may be famous for its beer gardens, beer halls and annual Oktoberfest, but these beer-fueled attractions aren’t the only reasons to plan a visit to this cosmopolitan city. Art and culture lovers will be satisfied with the city’s variety of

• All Things To Do

Marienplatz Marienplatz free

The Marienplatz square, accessible by a U-Bahn station of the same name, is considered the heart of Munich, and has been since the city was founded in 1158. In medieval times, it hosted markets and jousting tournaments. Today, busy Marienplatz is a must-visit for its two town halls, and is also a great spot to stop for coffee and watch the world go by. For Munich day trippers, it’s the perfect starting point for a tour of the city’s main central attractions, as well as the square’s surrounding pedestrianized area, home to foodie paradise, the Viktualienmarkt , and countless restaurants, cafes and shops. At Christmastime, Marienplatz fills with vendors selling festive food, mulled wine and holiday gifts at the popular Christkindlmarkt.

Recent travelers say spending some time in this city square is a must-do, noting the distinctly Bavarian feel. Past visitors also recommended timing your visit for the daily glockenspiel shows at the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) , which take place at 11 a.m. and noon. The square is free to visit 24/7, though individual businesses operate their own hours.

English Garden (Englischer Garten) English Garden (Englischer Garten) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you need a break from the crowds, hop on the U-Bahn to the Westpark to enjoy fewer tourists, more locals and in spring, some 20,000 roses. The Westpark is also home to Chinese and Japanese gardens and a Nepalese pagoda. – Christie Dietz

This large public park, which stretches from the city center to the northeastern city limits, is one of Munich's must-dos. Named for the informal English style of rolling hills and open landscaping, the Englischer Garten contains four popular beer gardens, jogging and biking paths, several kiosks for buying drinks and snacks, a boating lake, and monuments, including a Greek temple, a Japanese tea house and the Chinese Tower, or Chinesischer Turm. Head to the tower for one of the city’s largest beer gardens and several seasonal events throughout the year, such as a Christmas market and a traditional Bavarian dance event. One of the park’s biggest draws is the Eisbach wave (Eisbachwelle) at the garden entrance, a human-made standing wave that allows surfers to try their hand at river surfing almost all year.

Munich Residence (Residenz München) Munich Residence (Residenz München)

What originated in the late 1300s as a small, moated Gothic castle was transformed over the centuries by the Bavarian Wittelsbach dynasty to become the largest city palace in Germany. From 1508 to 1918, the Munich Residence (Residenz Munich) was the residence and seat of government of the Bavarian dukes, electors and kings. Today, it’s an impressive mix of Renaissance, Baroque, rococo and neoclassicism styles – and what many travelers describe as a must-see when visiting Munich.

Inside, you can explore more than 150 ornately decorated rooms filled with tapestries, paintings, sculptures, clocks and furniture. Highlights include King Ludwig I’s neoclassical royal apartment and the treasury, which comprises 10 halls displaying a magnificent collection of exhibits, such as crowns, goblets, swords, jewelry and tableware. The Court Church of All Saints (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche), the Rococo Cuvilliés Theater (Cuvilliés-Theater) and Hercules Hall (Herkulessaal) are today all used as performance venues. The palace is surrounded by the Court Garden (Hofgarden), a beautiful park filled with courtyards, fountains, statues, pavilions and water features.

Popular Tours

Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace Day Tour from Munich

(6452 reviews)

from $ 80.81

Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof VIP All-Inc Tour from Munich

(1706 reviews)

from $ 217.74

Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace Day Trip from Munich

(939 reviews)

from $ 77.44

Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Head to the palace late in the day to enjoy fewer crowds and a peaceful sunset in the beautiful gardens. – Christie Dietz

Located in the northwestern district of Neuhausen-Nymphenburg, Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) was built as a gift for the wife of Elector Ferdinand Maria, Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, on the birth of their long-awaited son. Designed by Italian architect Agostino Barelli, who also designed Munich’s Theatine Church (Theatinerkirche), the Baroque-style palace was completed in the 1670s. Over the centuries, it was extended and embellished with Rococo and Neoclassical elements.

Viktualienmarkt Viktualienmarkt free

The Viktualienmarkt, located off the Marienplatz U-Bahn and S-Bahn stops, began as a farmers market in 1807. Today, the 100 or so permanent stands offer everything from freshly baked bread to sausages and honey to fresh flowers. There are also several fountains featuring statues of local comedians, actors and singers, and a towering maypole decorated with emblems depicting various aspects of Munich life. You can also enjoy a locally brewed beer in the shade of the chestnut trees at the Viktualienmarkt beer garden.

Travelers say this market is perfect for an afternoon stroll, noting visitors should stop to buy and sample some of the goods available (especially the pretzels and white sausages), and finish their day with a cold drink at the beer garden.

Old Town (Altstadt) Old Town (Altstadt) free

Located in the heart of Munich, the city’s Old Town ( Altstadt ) is a hive of activity that’s as popular with tourists as it is with locals and packed with sights and attractions.

The Marienplatz is at the center of the Old Town, a former market square named, along with the victory column – St. Mary’s Column ( Mariensäule ) – in its center, after Bavarian’s patron saint, Mary. Travelers love both the sights and the atmosphere here and are impressed by the neo-Gothic New Town Hall ( Neues Rathaus ), famous for its glockenspiel and the location of both the Lord Mayor’s office and Tourist Information. During Advent, there are several Christmas markets in the Old Town, but the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the most traditional, dating back to the 14th century.

Asam Church (Asamkirche) Asam Church (Asamkirche) free

Munich is full of hidden gems, and the Asam Church (Asamkirche) is no exception. Nestled between stores and cafes on the city's popular shopping street Sendlinger Straße, this 18th-century church, which is officially called St.-Johann-Nepomuk-Kirche, is an unexpected masterpiece. 

Previous visitors said they were intrigued by the building's unique exterior while strolling by, so they decided to peek inside. What they found was a tiny church with enormous detail. 

Glockenspiel in the New City Hall (Rathaus-Glockenspiel) Glockenspiel in the New City Hall (Rathaus-Glockenspiel) free

In the tower of the New City Hall ( Neues Rathaus ) on Marienplatz is Munich’s world-famous glockenspiel. With its 43 bells and 32 life-size figures, the large solar-powered mechanical clock first sounded in 1908 and reenacts scenes from two famous 16th-century Munich stories twice a day; from March to October, there’s an additional reenactment at 5 p.m. The glockenspiel has a repertoire of 22 pieces of music, mostly folk songs, that are played on rotation, with four reserved especially for Advent. The only time the glockenspiel is silent is on Good Friday.

The first of its two scenes depicts a moment from a jousting tournament that took place on Marienplatz in 1568 during two weeks of celebrations held in honor of the wedding of the local Duke Wilhelm V to Renate of Lorraine: A Bavarian knight triumphs over his French opponent by thrusting him off his horse with his lance. The second scene illustrates the dance of Munich’s barrel makers ( Münchner Schäffler ), who are celebrating being allowed to venture out onto the streets again for the first time after a severe plague epidemic in 1517 and began dancing to entertain the city’s plague-ravaged residents. In a third performance every evening between March and October, a night watchman comes out to blow his horn and a guardian angel stretches a protective hand over the Munich Child ( Münchner Kindl) , the symbol on the city’s coat of arms.

Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Munich

(3910 reviews)

VIP Day Trip Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castle from Munich

(142 reviews)

from $ 189.68

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site Tour from Munich by Train

(4499 reviews)

from $ 52.75

Pinakothek Museums Pinakothek Museums

Amongst the outstanding collection of museums in Munich’s art district – Kunstareal – are the three Pinakothek museums. All are within walking distance of one another and are part of the Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen (Bavarian State Picture Collection), along with several other museums.

The Alte Pinakothek – translated as the “Old Picture Gallery” – is regarded by experts as one of Europe’s most significant art museums. With walls lined with works from Titian, Rembrandt and Rubens, the museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of 14th- to 18th-century paintings. Visitors appreciated the incredible collection of masterpieces and the audio guide, which can be accessed via your smartphone – so remember to bring headphones!

Deutsches Museum Deutsches Museum

A science and technology museum like no other (according to travelers), the Deutsches Museum brims with exhibits on everything from robotics and aviation to bridges and musical instruments. Sprawling across more than 200,000 square feet of space, the museum reopened in 2022 after a yearslong renovation. Today, visitors have the opportunity to explore 19 new and redesigned exhibits. There’s also Kids’ Kingdom ( Kinderreich ), a section geared toward 3- to 8-year-olds that houses interactive exhibits, including a marble run, a hall of mirrors and a giant guitar that kids can crawl inside and actually play. Beyond the exhibits, the museum also boasts a rooftop restaurant and a gift shop.

There are also two other branches of the Deutsches Museum (accessible via additional admission fees). In the west of the city, the affiliated Center for Transportation ( Verkehrszentrum) offers three exhibition halls filled with transport-related exhibits, including vintage cars and locomotives. Meanwhile, Flugwerft Schleissheim is all about aviation, and it’s located about 13 miles north in Oberschleißheim.

Olympiapark Olympiapark free

Originally constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics, Munich's Olympiapark is now a popular tourist attraction. It houses a massive recreation center complete with skating rinks, an indoor pool, mini golf courses, tennis courts and, of course, the 77,337-seat Olympic Stadium. The stadium hosts concerts and other large-ticketed events throughout the year, but many visitors come to the park to explore the plethora of activities in and around the stadium.

The park sprawls across more than 200 acres, meaning you likely won’t see it all during one visit. If you’re limited on time, opt for a 20-minute tram tour of the grounds for 7 euros (around $7.60). Some visitors preferred this comfortable sightseeing method, but others said they wished the tram tour passed more interesting sights. For a 360-degree view of the park, city and the nearby Alps, climb up the grassy mound known as Olympic Hill (Olympiaberg). It’s one of the highest elevations in the city and a popular picnic spot in the summer. During warm weather, you can also rent rowboats and pedal boats to take out onto the park’s lake.

Augustiner-Keller Augustiner-Keller free

Augustiner-Keller, one of few remaining traditional beer gardens left in the city center, is Munich’s oldest brewery, and the last remaining one that’s owned privately. It was first mentioned in 1812 on the Munich city map as a beer storage facility, and was acquired by the owner of the Augustiner brewery in 1862.

The beer garden took its current form in 1896 and has changed very little since. Today it has some 5,000 seats and is very popular in summer, in part thanks to the shade of its 100 or so chestnut trees. You can sample traditional Bavarian food here, such as sausages or roast pork, opt for lighter international dishes and salads, or if you want to cut costs, do as the locals do and bring a picnic. In winter, the historic brewery building has a network of cozy rooms and larger beer halls to drink and dine in.

Odeonsplatz Odeonsplatz free

Despite its location in the heart of Bavaria, Munich has been called "Italy's most northerly city" because of its architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Its Italian influence is most apparent in Odeonsplatz – a historic square near the city center designed by a king who had an affinity for the Mediterranean country.  

The Field Marshals' Hall (Feldherrnhalle) – a three-arch monument built in the 1840s – stands at the south end of the Odeonsplatz square and is almost identical to  Florence 's Loggia dei Lanzi. Deeply embedded in pre-World War II history, the monument is perhaps best known as the site of the 1923 Beer Hall Putsch, a failed coup by the Nazi Party following which Hitler was arrested. Nowadays, the Feldherrnhalle's steps provide an ideal spot for Munich residents and visitors to lounge. 

Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Private Tour from Munich

(55 reviews)

from $ 617.31

Berchtesgaden and Eagle's Nest Day Trip from Munich

(470 reviews)

from $ 70.71

Third Reich Walking Tour Munich

(3408 reviews)

from $ 35.92

St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) free

St. Peter's Church  (Peterskirche) is Munich's oldest place of worship. Its stunning white and gold interior is filled with treasures, but its tower – fondly known as Old Peter (Alter Peter) by locals – is the real draw. Adorned with eight clocks and eight bells, the tower stands at nearly 200 feet tall. From its viewing platform, visitors are treated to 360-degree views of Munich, including City Hall (Rathaus) and the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Dear Lady) .

Recent travelers were impressed by the church's glittering altar, not to mention the gold, jewel-bedecked, glass-enclosed skeleton of St. Munditia, a revered Christian martyr. Reviewers also said the view at the top of the tower is a must-see and worth the effort.

Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Frauenkirche) Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Frauenkirche) free

Officially called the Cathedral Of Our Dear Lady (Zu Unserer Lieben Frau) , this Munich landmark is also known locally as Munich Cathedral (Münchner Dom) and the Frauenkirche. The Gothic-period cathedral is a unique part of the city skyline, thanks to its two dome-topped towers. The dual towers stand at around 323 feet, though one is slightly higher than the other – and no one knows why! Thanks to a law passed in 2004, no buildings within Munich’s city limits are allowed to be constructed taller than the towers.

The main part of the church and two towers were constructed in the late 1400s, built with red bricks in order to save money as there were no local stone quarries. The domed tower roofs were added in 1525. The cathedral was severely damaged by bombing during World War II, and although the initial restoration was simpler than the original design, more ornate embellishments were added later.

Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein) Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)

Neuschwanstein Castle ( Schloss Neuschwanstein ) famously served as the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Built on a rock ledge over the Pöllat Gorge on the site of two smaller castles, the medieval-style Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II in 1868. Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe, and just a two-hour train ride south of Munich.

Even if you’re not interested in touring the inside of the castle, travelers say it’s still worth the trip for the views of the exterior and surrounding area. You can admire the photogenic setting on one of the many wooded trails, or from Marienbrücke, a bridge suspended over a waterfall that offers spectacular photo-ops of the castle and Bavarian Alps.

Bavarian National Museum (Bayerisches Nationalmuseum) Bavarian National Museum (Bayerisches Nationalmuseum)

The Bavarian National Museum ( Bayerisches Nationalmuseum ) is one of Germany’s largest museums and one of Europe’s largest art and cultural history museums.

Founded in 1855 by King Maximilian II, it was dedicated to the history of the Wittelsbach dynasty and the culture and history of the people they ruled. The museum was originally situated between what is today Karlsplatz and Marienplatz , but its collection quickly outgrew its space. In 1900, the museum was moved to a historic building complex on Prinzregentenstraße, close to the River Isar. Much of the museum required reconstruction following severe damage during World War II.

The Hirschgarten The Hirschgarten free

Located in the Nymphenburg district in Munich’s west, the approximately 100-acre Hirschgarten park was created in 1780 by Elector Carl Theodor as a hunting ground for the nobility. Though it’s no longer used for hunting, the park does shelter a wild animal enclosure, which is home to fallow deer and wild sheep that visitors can feed (just pay attention to the signage listing what the animals are allowed to eat). The Hirschgarten park also houses several playgrounds, including a water playground for hot summer days, a small skate park, barbeque areas and various walking trails.

The Königlicher Hirschgarten restaurant and beer garden , which dates back to 1791, is also situated in the park. With seating for more than 8,000 people, it’s the largest traditional beer garden in the world. Stop by for some hearty fare, such as white sausages with sweet mustard, käsepätzle (egg noodles with cheese and onions), or a large platter of bread, cold cuts and cheeses. Recent travelers say the beer garden has a great ambiance, excellent service and a fantastic location, and that the park is a peaceful place to escape the packed downtown area.

Romantic Road, Rothenburg, and Harburg Day Tour from Munich

(1055 reviews)

from $ 83.06

Munich Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local

(291 reviews)

from $ 119.64

Salzburg Sightseeing Day Trip from Munich by Rail

(2622 reviews)

St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) free

Situated in Munich’s pedestrian zone halfway between Karlsplatz and Marienplatz, St. Michael’s Church (Michaelskirche) is considered to be the first Renaissance church built north of the Alps. According to past travelers, it is a must-see in Munich.

The Jesuit church was built in two stages. Commissioned by Duke Herzog Wilhelm V and modeled on the Jesuits’ mother church in Rome, its foundation stone was laid in 1583, but a vaulting system was used that turned out to be unstable and in 1590, the church’s tower collapsed and destroyed the choir, which had just been completed. In a second stage of construction, the plans for the (now towerless) church were expanded to incorporate a new choir and transept, resulting in the impressively proportioned building that still stands today.

Cuvilliés Theatre (Cuvilliés-Theater) Cuvilliés Theatre (Cuvilliés-Theater)

Named after its Belgian-born architect François de Cuvilliés, the plush Cuvilliés Theatre ( Cuvilliés-Theater ), originally called the Residence Theatre ( Residenztheater ), was built in rococo style in the mid-18th century as a theater for Elector Maximilian Joseph III and used for grand opera performances for members of the royal court.

The building was destroyed toward the end of World War II, and the theater was rebuilt in one of the wings of the Munich Residence (Residenz München) . The theater’s ornately carved wooden box paneling had been dismantled and security stored during the war and could be reused in its meticulous reconstruction and decoration in magnificent red and gold. It reopened under its new name, the Cuvilliés Theatre, in 1958. It’s also known as the Old Residence Theatre ( Altes Residenztheater ) to distinguish it from the New Residence Theatre ( Neues Residenztheater ), which was built on the Cuvilliés Theater’s original site.

NS-Dokumentationszentrum NS-Dokumentationszentrum free

The Munich Documentation Center for the History of National Socialism (NS-Dokumentationszentrum), abbreviated to “nsdoku,” explores the history of National Socialism and the longstanding effects of the Nazi dictatorship.

The museum is located on Königsplatz on the site of the Brown House ( Braunes Haus) , the former headquarters of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party – the Nazi Party – which was almost destroyed by Allied bombing in 1945. More than any other city, Munich is most closely associated with the rise of National Socialism, and between 1933 and 1945, the area surrounding the nsdoku became a primary location for the Nazi Party and home to many of its administrative offices.

Munich Court Garden (Hofgarten) Munich Court Garden (Hofgarten) free

Bordered by the Munich Residence (Residenz München) , the Bavarian State Chancellery ( Bayerische Staatskanzlei ) and Odeonsplatz , the Munich Court Garden ( Hofgarten ) is an enjoyable place to stroll around as part of a visit to the palace, but with its plentiful benches, also makes a great spot to take a break from sightseeing and shopping.

Plans for the garden date back to 1613, when various new buildings and extensions of the palace were being constructed. It was designed in the style of formal Italian Renaissance gardens, but was redesigned several times according to changing fashions, and needed rebuilding after it was destroyed during World War II.

Bavarian State Opera House (Bayerische Staatsoper) Bavarian State Opera House (Bayerische Staatsoper)

U.S. News Insider Tip: If your Munich visit coincides with the opera’s annual summer festival and you’d like to attend a free live broadcast from the National Theatre/open-air concert at Max-Joseph-Platz, do as the locals and bring a picnic and something to sit on. – Christie Dietz

The Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsoper) is one of the world’s most acclaimed opera houses. Its history goes back some 350 years and today, it has its own orchestra, the Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsorchester), and ballet company, the Bavarian State Ballet (Bayerische Staatsballett).

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Tour with Train from Munich

(679 reviews)

from $ 47.14

Munich Ghosts and Spirits Evening Walking Tour

(1112 reviews)

from $ 55.00

Private TOUR Munich > Eagle Nest > Königssee > Salzburg > Munich

(10 reviews)

from $ 477.01

BMW World (BMW Welt) and the BMW Museum BMW World (BMW Welt) and the BMW Museum

On the east side of the Olympiapark , situated a few minutes’ walk from each other in a complex shared with BMW’s corporate headquarters and main plant, the BMW Museum and BMW Welt (which translates as “BMW World”) are dedicated to one of Germany’s most famous exports.

Housed in a strikingly modern building, the BMW Museum documents the brand’s 100-year history through temporary and permanent exhibitions that feature collections of cars, motorcycles and engines, as well as displays highlighting BMW’s technological advances and achievements from its inception to today. Directly opposite, the futuristic-looking BMW Welt is home to the newest BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles, as well as exhibitions showcasing BMW’s latest innovations. Many travelers said it the site was worth visiting, if not for the cars then for the building's contemporary architecture.

Explore More of Munich

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 26 Best Beach Resorts in the World

Marisa Méndez|Erin Vasta|Rachael Hood|Catriona Kendall September 5, 2024

30 Fun Fall Weekend Getaways for 2024

Holly Johnson August 29, 2024

The 19 Best Fall Family Vacations for 2024

Amanda Norcross August 27, 2024

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

The 12 best things to do in Munich

Pork knuckles or river surfing? Biergartens, museums and more fill our guide to the best things to do in Munich

Whether you’re here for Oktoberfest or not, Munich packs a punch. This city has everything you need for a city break, and we’d say three days is enough to really get stuck in. And sure, it’s best known for the festival, but there’s plenty more to explore while you’re here. 

Discover an Olympic park, fantastic museums and even where to drink beer at breakfast (yes, really). Oh, and make sure to keep your eyes peeled when you’re wandering the streets; you’ll spot grand buildings, elegant facades, street art and contemporary architecture, the result of reconstruction following the devastation of World War II. Here are the best things to do in Munich right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 Our guide to where to stay in Munich 🍻 The best places to drink beer in Munich 🍴 The best restaurants in Munich 🏠 The best Airbnbs in Munich

This guide was last updated by Kate Mann , a writer based in Munich. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Munich

1.  go for breakfast at schneider bräuhaus.

• price 2 of 4

There aren’t many places in the world where beer for breakfast is practically mandatory. To enjoy the full experience of Weisswurst , a pale and tender Bavarian sausage in which minced veal, pork and seasonings are crammed into pork casings, head to Schneider Bräuhaus, and pair your meat with a pillowy-soft Brezn (pretzel) and a glass of Weissbier (wheat beer). Best dunked in süßer Senf (sweet mustard), the sausages are traditionally made fresh and not eaten after midday, meaning you won’t find the locals ordering them in the afternoon. Follow suit if you want to blend in.

📍 Discover more of the best restaurants in Munich

2.  Stroll around the old Olympic Village

Built for the 1972 games, the Olympiapark is well worth a visit with several attractions, lots of green space, a hill offering fantastic views and a beer garden or two. On the northern end you’ll find the former women’s Olympic village. The blocky bungalows here, most of which were rebuilt in 2007, are now much sought-after student accommodation. With the tenant of each given creative control of the exterior, you’ll find a sea of colourful and ever-changing paintings, a number influenced by pop culture  –  don’t miss the flat with a ‘Central Perk’ theme. 

3.  Discover local labels at HIER Studio

Run by textile designer Stephanie Kahnau, this stylish shop close to Wiener Platz showcases creations from her own fashion label as well as products from other Munich-based brands. With a strong focus on craftmanship and design, HIER Studio is a great place to pick up sustainable and local gifts, all with a story behind them. The mix of clothing, jewellery, accessories, ceramics and stationery is displayed in a minimalist space with exposed concrete walls and high ceilings. Regular pieces include bags and wallets from Vanook , chains and earrings from Cocii and the eyewear collection from Jules & Mel . 

4.  Explore the stalls at Viktualienmarkt

Dating back over 200 years, open-air food market Viktualienmarkt offers a handy (and relatively inexpensive) pit stop if you’re exploring Munich’s historic centre. Some 100 stalls offer a wide range of German and international delights from Monday through Saturday. You’ll find barrels of pickles, cheeses from around Europe and locally roasted coffee, as well as more recent additions such as the FIRST8 Kombucha stand and the newest branch of Munich-based deli Coucou Food Market . Come hungry!

5.  Go surfing on the Eisbach

• Rivers, lakes and ponds

Surfing seems an unlikely sight in a landlocked city – but watching surfers master the main wave in the Eisbach (‘ice brook’) has become a pastime for locals and visitors alike. Special boards and skills are needed for this cold-water sport, which was banned until 2010 and now draws brave professional and semi-professional athletes in wetsuits all year round. Unlike ocean surfing, there’s no paddling to catch the wave, which is artificially created on a concrete break. This means surfers must be ready to ride as soon as they hit the water. Fall and their turn is over. 

6.  Check out the art at Kunstlabor 2

Munich is home to some of the most revered galleries in Germany, such as the Neue Pinakothek and Haus der Kunst, but try this former health department building for something a little different. Since 2021, Kunstlabor 2  has been coordinated by the owners of MUCA (the Museum of Urban and Contemporary Art) and hosts artists from around the world who use the space as studios. It’s open to the public at weekends, while the stylish AMARi Kantine & Bar on the ground floor is open Tuesday through Sunday. Swing by to try their small plates and signature drinks.  

7.  Tuck into local fare at the Max Emanuel Brauerei

In business since 1880, this Bavarian Wirtshaus in the district of Maxvorstadt recently had a makeover. Run by a young team, this sleek and modern pub focuses on its food menu just as much as its beer. At Max Emanuel Brauerei , you can try classics from Bavaria and Austria, such as Krustenbraten (roast pork with dumplings and dark beer sauce) or Wiener Schnitzel with potatoes and cranberry sauce, along with more brunchy dishes at the weekend. When the weather in fine, those in the know head straight to the secluded beer garden out the back. Shade is provided by beautiful old chestnut trees. 

8.  Discover Olafur Eliasson’s ‘Umschreibung’

In the inner courtyard of an office building, a spiral steel staircase reaches up into the sky – only to return to earth again. A study of movement without purpose by Danish artist Olafur Eliasson , ‘Umschreibung’ is a sculpture comprising two spiral staircases merging to create a double helix. You’ll find it at Ganghoferstrasse 29. Worth a look, if only to admire the engineering required to balance the structure on a single point.

9.  Mooch around the trendy Glockenbachviertel

Gentrification is well underway in the once-edgy beating heart of Munich’s LGBTQ+ scene. The vibrant Glockenbachviertel remains one of Munich’s prettiest districts, brimming with chic boutiques, cosy cafes and buzzing bars.  Tushita  tea house on Klenzestrasse makes a cup of tea a spiritual affair with its assortment of 150 traditionally prepared blends and collection of kettles, teapots, cups, bowls, plus just about everything else in the tea arena (they also have a daily-changing vegan menu and excellent homemade cakes). Summer draws locals and visitors alike to the terrace of the  Flushing Meadows Bar  on the fourth floor of the hotel of the same name, where artisanal cocktails come with sweeping views of the city.

10.  Go for a dip at Müllersches Volksbad

• Public spaces
• price 1 of 4

Open since 1901, this impressive indoor pool on the banks of the river has retained many of its original features. There are murals and statues, as well as rows of old changing cabins along the balconies. When it comes to swimming, there’s a 100-foot-long pool which was once for men only, and a smaller, slightly warmer one which was originally for women – both are now mixed. Many locals head straight for the spa area complete with steam rooms and a Finnish sauna, or the hairdresser which has been in business since 1905. There’s a cafe too but we suggest heading to new hotspot Boazn , a bar in an old public toilet, instead. It’s right next door. 

11.  Grab a snack from bakery Bageri

Bageri is probably one of the city’s smallest and most unusual bakeries. Since summer 2023, a talented team has been making focaccia and cardamon buns in the confines of an old shipping container. All the products are available to go and best enjoyed with a coffee – yes, they found space for an espresso machine too. Look for somewhere to perch outside and take in the surroundings, which include more shipping containers and an abundance of street art – all part of an alternative cultural centre known as Bahnwärter Thiel .  

12.  Watch the Glockenspiel on Marienplatz

• Monuments and memorials

Last but not least. In Marienplatz, Munich’s central square, a famous clock depicts different events from the city’s history with the help of 43 bells and 32 life-sized figures. With two or three shows daily (depending on the season), the Glockenspiel on the tower of the Neues Rathaus always sees a crowd gather below. We recommend grabbing a coffee and settling in a few minutes early, before making a wager on which tiny knight will win the adorable duel. Take the lift up to the Café Glockenspiel for the best views. 

More great things to do in Munich

Powered by GetYourGuide

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Android app
• Time Out Worldwide

Home » Travel Guides » Germany » 25 Best Things to Do in Munich (Germany)

25 Best Things to Do in Munich (Germany)

Bavaria’s capital is a cocktail of beloved sights, opulent Baroque churches and museums of the highest order. Munich’s Kunstareal is a cluster of art museums with so many masterpieces it’s difficult to know where to begin. A week would never be enough to see all of them, and these invaluable collections were assembled by the Wittelsbach monarchs who ruled Bavaria up to the 20th century.

Their palaces in the city are two of the many glorious monuments to take in, and you’ll catch sight of Alps from the top of the Rathaus and St Peter’s Church. Munich is also the city of some world-famous German exports like BMW, FC Bayern and the incomparable Oktoberfest, more than two weeks of beer-fuelled merrymaking every Autumn.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Munich :

1. Alte Pinakothek

Dating to 1836, the Alte Pinakothek is one of the world’s oldest art galleries.

The museum’s Neo-Renaissance design would be a model for galleries that sprouted in Brussels, Rome and St Petersburg.

It was all ordered by King Ludwig I to house the Wittelsbach dynasty’s exceptional collection, started by Duke Wilhelm IV back in the 1500s.

The upshot is 800 German, French, Dutch, Flemish, Italian and Spanish paintings from the 1200s to the 1800s, of superlative quality.

The masters who take the spotlight are Peter Paul Rubens, Albrecht Dürer and van Dyck, all represented by multiple paintings.

And on your way, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, Hans Baldung Grien, Hieronymous Bosch and Rembrandt are just a few of the many prestigious names you’ll encounter.

2. Munich Residenz

What began as a 14th-century castle for the Wittelsbach monarchs on the northern edge of the city burgeoned over the course of several hundred years into a sublime palace complex of ten courtyards and 130 rooms.

Successive dukes, emperors, princes and kings all made grand statements in the Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical styles.

Given the size of the palace and the richness of its art, the Munich Residenz is a sight to do in several visits if you can.

But a few musts to tick off are the Italian Renaissance Grotto Courtyard, the lavishly adorned Antiquarium banquet hall and the gilded mouldings in the Baroque Ancestral Gallery.

3. Neues Rathaus

A postcard favourite, Munich’s town hall on Marienplatz is a Gothic Revival wonder, a monument worthy of the city.

The facade is festooned with pinnacles, niches with little trefoil arches and statues of the first four Bavarian kings on the bay of the tower.

Munich’s population doubled in less than 20 years between 1880 and 1900, and the Neues Rathaus, which was originally completed in 1874 had to be expanded barely 20 years after it was finished.

That facade is 100 metres long and the building was extended to 400 rooms, and you can go in to scale the 85-metre where you can see to the Alps on cloudless days.

Since 1908 the Glockenspiel has chimed each day at 11:00 and 12:00, and then 17:00 (from March to October), with automatons acting out episodes from the 1600s.

4. Englischer Garten

Scanning a map of the city, you’ll be struck by the size of the Englischer Garten.

Created in the 18th century, the park begins on the left bank of the Isar in the north behind the Residenz and just seems to go on and on.

At 370 hectares this expanse of lawns, tree groves, pasture, waterways and a lake is one of the world’s largest urban parks, bigger than New York’s Central Park.

There are some neat little sights to take in, like a Japanese teahouse added for the Olympics in 1972 and the Chinese Tower based on Kew Gardens’ pagoda and first erected in 1790. But something you may not have expected to come across is surfing: Yes, the man-made Eisbach River has a strong current, forming a static wave that experienced boarders ride for up to a minute at a time.

5. Neue Pinakothek

King Ludwig I also had an eye for the contemporary art of the 19th century and amassed many invaluable pieces from the period.

Some 400 paintings from the 1800s are on show in the Neue Pinakothek, and they tick off all of the influential movements from the century.

There are German Romantics like Caspar David Friedrich and Karl Friedrich Schinkel, French Realists such as Delacroix and Courbet, and Impressionist Art by Degas, Cézanne, Monet, Gauguin and Renoir.

After that you can go slow and study each movement in detail, or scoot across periods to the other masterpieces by Goya, Rodin, Klimt, Munch and Turner.

6. Marienplatz

In any season, Marienplatz in front of the Neues Rathaus will be brimming with locals and tourists out shopping, sightseeing or just watching the city go by.

The square has been at the centre of the city since the 12th century and is named for a Marian column that was raised here in the 17th century.

The monument is from 1638 and celebrates the withdrawal of Swedish troops from Munich during the 30 Years’ War.

The golden statue at the top is older, sculpted in 1590 and showing Mary on a crescent moon as the Queen of Heaven.

This was the first Marian column north of the Alps, and the forerunner for a host of similar monuments in Bavaria and Central Europe.

Come in December, when the Christmas market is in full swing.

7. St Peter’s Church

Munich’s oldest church was first built at the end of the 1100s but destroyed by fire in 1347. The reconstruction was in the Gothic style and down the years there have been many extensions, leaving the St Peter’s with Renaissance and Baroque elements.

That fusion of styles applies to the art, as 15th-century Gothic paintings by Jan Polack sit below a marvellous Late Baroque ceiling fresco by Johann Baptist Zimmermann.

Go in for a closer look at the high altar, which has a figure of St Peter sculpted by Erasmus Grasser at the turn of the 16th century.

St Peter’s church rests atop the hillock, Petersbergl and it’s worthwhile tackling the tower’s 299 steps to spend a few minutes pointing out Munich’s landmarks with the help of a telescope.

8. Deutsches Museum

Like the Alte Pinakothek the Deutsches Museum could easily keep you occupied for an entire day.

The museum sits on an island in the Isar (the Museumsinsel) and maps the development of Science and Technology in Germany.

What will keep you engrossed is the sheer variety of fields dealt with in these galleries, from nanotechnology to reproduction, aerospace and astronomy to hydraulic engineering.

If you only have a couple of hours to spare you’ll need to plan ahead and focus on one or two things.

Every field has well-presented and fully interactive exhibits, inviting kids to push buttons, crank wheels and pull levers.

And while younger minds are catered for and there’s even a fun kids’ zone, the museum never shies away from the complicated details.

9. Pinakothek der Moderne

Although it’s known locally as the “Dritte” (third), after the Alte and Neue Pinakothek, Munich’s modern art museum is just as essential.

As with its neighbours in the Kunstreal, the galleries are comprehensive and stocked with art by the most celebrated names of the last 100 years.

The best bit is the Expressionism exhibition from both the Brücke and Blaue Reiter groups, and artists like Kirchner, Kandinsky, Klee, Franz Marc and Emil Nolde will be familiar to all.

In rest of the Modernism galleries you’ll come across Francis Bacon, Braque, Otto Dix, Picasso, Magritte, Max Ernst and Joan Miró.

And then bringing you from the 1960s to the present day are the contemporary galleries abounding with art by Sigmar Polke, Andy Warhol, David Hockney and Lucio Fontana among others.

And beyond all this there are exhibitions for applied art/industrial design, photography, drawings and architecture.

10. Lenbachhaus

At the dawn of the 20th century Munich had a vibrant and influential art scene, when the Blaue Reiter (Blue Rider) group shook up the old academies.

Many leading Expressionists were members, including Kandinsky, Franz Marc, Gabriele Münter and August Macke, and the Lenbachaus brims with their paintings.

There’s also great deal of contemporary art by the likes of Gerhard Richter, Andy Warhol and Jenny Holzer.

The museum’s roll-call of Munich-based artists goes back to the Gothic painter Jan Polack and including the portrait painter Georg Desmarées, the landscape artists Carl Anton Joseph Rottmann and the Biedermeier luminary Carl Spitzweg.

The Lenbachhaus is named for the portrait painter Franz von Lenbach who commissioned the building in the 1880s.

In 2013 a new wing was added, clad with copper and aluminium tubes.

11. Asam Church

An easy walk from the Sendlinger Tor at the southern tip of old Munich is an extravagant Late Baroque church wedged in a confined space between neighbouring buildings.

The Asam Church is named after its mid-18th-century designers, the brothers Asam, one a painter and the other a sculptor.

An interesting thing about the church is that it was a private chapel, unattached to any religious order.

This, along with the narrow space, gave the brothers freedom to break a few Baroque rules for layout and interior decoration.

The church faces west for instance, and the crucifix opposite the pulpit is hung unusually low.

These quirks and the skill of the radiant ceiling frescos and workmanship in the stuccowork lining the nave add up to one of the foremost buildings in the German Late Baroque style.

12. Frauenkirche

Although there are prettier churches in Munich, none possess the 15th-century Frauenkirche’s sense of scale.

Its pair of towers, crowned with onion domes are a Munich landmark, and no new building is permitted to exceed their 109-metre height.

The church’s design is famously discreet, with few window openings and unadorned walls that inspire awe.

The Frauenkirche suffered in the war, but there’s still a lot of restored or original art to seek out inside.

The choir stalls from the start of the 16th century are sculpted with busts of prophets and apostles, and some of the stained glass windows are from the medieval church that stood on the site before this one.

There’s also a tomb monument to Louis IV the 14th-century Holy Roman Emperor, and see a shoe-shaped impression at the entrance, supposedly left by the devil!

13. Theatine Church

At Odeonplatz you’ll be greeted by the splendid yellow facade of the 17th-century Theatine Church.

This monument was designed by Italian architects in the Baroque style and took cues from Rome’s Sant’Andrea della Valle.

Give yourself time to marvel at the painted facade, rich with niches, reliefs, Doric columns and Ionic pilasters.

It’s all the product of a holy vow given by Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, if she could give birth to a crown prince for the Elector Ferdinand Maria.

Through the doors, keep an eye out for the altar with images of the evangelists from 1722, the black wooden pulpit dating to 1688 and the crypt, resting place of several members of the Wittelsbach family.

14. Bavarian National Museum

Inaugurated by King Maximilian II in 1855, the Bavarian Museum is another cultural attraction that needs a lot of time.

In store here are more than 40 rooms of decorative items, dating from antiquity to Art Nouveau at the start of the 20th century.

There’s faience, weapons, armour, porcelain, oil paintings, musical instruments, furniture, clocks, costumes tableware and a whole lot more besides.

The high points are the Bollert Collection, a trove of Late Gothic and Renaissance and sculpture from religious buildings around Bavaria, and the set of Rococo Nymphenburg porcelain figures by the Swiss modeller Franz Anton Buselli.

The Historicist museum building also deserves a mention as it was purpose-built to complement the collections at the end of the 1890s.

15. BMW Museum

Karl Schwanzer, the man who designed the famous BMW Headquarters also drew up the plans for the futuristic museum building in front, often described as the “salad bowl”. The building was completed in 1973 and its galleries are on a Guggenheim-esque spiral.

The showrooms are air, spacious and effortlessly cool, as you go on a journey through the brand’s technological development.

There are vintage cars, aircraft, motorcycles, turbines, engines as well as outlandish concept vehicles from the last two decades, all accompanied with information via multimedia.

Did you know Elvis Presley owned a BMW? Well he did and it’s on show here.

16. BMW Welt

After learning about BMW’s past you can be brought up to date with the present at the stylish exhibition hall next door.

BMW Welt is free to enter and the best explanation is that it’s the world’s most spectacular car dealership showroom.

People come to pick up their new BMWs, which is a spectacle in its own right as their car is lifted up to them by elevator into a glass hall.

You can take a close look at all of the BMW models currently on the market, get behind the wheel and even book a test drive.

If one steals your heart you can order it here for delivery to most parts of the world, or shop for BMW souvenirs and accessories at the shop.

17. Glyptothek

Our final museum in the Kunstareal would be a priority in almost any other city, which testifies to the volume of art and history in this quarter.

The Glyptothek is a Neoclassical temple ordered by King Ludwig I as a repository for his Greek and Roman sculpture collection.

The building was completed in 1830, making it the oldest museum in Munich.

There’s more than 1,000 years of sculpture within, spanning the Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic Periods as well as the Roman Empire.

The Hellenistic Barnerini Faun is one to look out for, depicting a life-sized faun and sculpted around the turn of the 2nd Century BC. From Roman times there’s an assortment of busts of emperors like Emperor Augustus, Nero, Caligula and Traian, and the statesmen Sulla and Gaius Marius.

18. Olympiapark

While many former Olympic venues around the world tend to be forgotten, Munich’s 1972 Olympic Park is still a popular day out.

The park is a massive activity centre where you can ride a zip-line over the iconic stadium, take part in watersports on the lake and ski on the hill in winter.

There are also fairground amusements in summer, and no lack of places to grab a snack or meal.

The park has also witnessed some historic events, one grim, like the Munich massacre of 11 Israeli team members in 1972, and you can still visit Building 31 where the Israeli team was staying.

On a lighter note the Olympic stadium was also the scene of one of the most memorable World Cup finals in 1974, when Beckenbauer’s Germany came from behind to defeat Johan Cruyff’s Netherlands 2-1.

19. Allianz Arena

Even if you only have a passing interest in football, a visit to the home of FC Bayern has to be on the agenda.

That’s not just because they’re Germany’s top team and have a special place in the nation’s culture, but they also moved into an awesome new home just over a decade ago.

The 66,000-seater stadium is clad with 2,874 luminous panels, which light up with the club’s colours on match-days.

The Allianz Arena’s hour-long tour is an all-access experience, guiding you in to the dressing rooms, player’s tunnel, mixed zone where post-match interviews are given and the press conference room.

After that you can spend some time in the museum acquainting yourself with Bayern’s greatest players like Franz Beckenbauer, Gerd Müller and Lothar Matthäus, and reliving the club’s five Champions League/European Cup victories.

Recommended tour : FC Bayern München Football and Allianz Arena Tour

20. Munich National Theatre

The Neoclassical National Theatre on Max-Joseph-Platz is one of Europe’s top opera houses and the home venue of the Bavarian State Ballet, Bavarian State Orchestra and the Bavarian State Opera.

The current design and its majestic portico is from 1825, and although the building was devastated in the war it was rebuilt to the architect Karl von Fischer’s 19th-century plans in the 1960s.

Opera fans who aren’t able to get tickets could still arrange a German language tour to see the stunning multi-storey backstage area, and find out more about the people who have graced this building: A number of Richard Wagner’s operas debuted at the National Theatre, like Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, Das Rhengold and Die Walküre.

21. Müller’sches Volksbad

If a swimming pool sounds a bit anticlimactic, the Müller’sches Volksbad on the right bank of the Isar is anything but a disappointment, especially if you have a taste for Art Nouveau design.

The pool is also the closest thing to a secret, in-the-know experience on our list.

There’s no equivalent in Germany, and every step of the banal activity of going for a swim and sauna session is made exciting by Carl Hochede’s Classical motifs, patterned stucco flourishes on the ceilings, whimsical lamp holders and wrought iron banisters.

22. Hofbräuhaus

If you’re up for a beer, a carefree atmosphere and helping of traditional Bavarian fare a beer hall or Wirtshaus would be just the ticket.

There are dozens to choose from around Munich and with a little research you’ll find an authentic one near you.

And even though you won’t find many locals in the Hofbräuhaus, it’s still one of those things you have to do in Munich.

It’s an annexe of the Staatliches Hofbräuhaus brewery, which was located here from 1589 until 1897 when it relocated to the suburbs.

One of the many eminent regulars at the beer hall was Mozart, who lived just around the corner in the 18th century.

On the wall you’ll notice beer steins belonging to regulars, which are kept under lock and key.

Order a litre glass of lager, malty dark beer or Weißbier to go with a Wienerschnitzel or Weißwurst.

Tip : Included in the Munich Third Reich Tour

23. Viktualienmarkt

The city’s food market was relocated here in 1807 when it grew too big for Marienplatz.

First and foremost is Viktualienmarkt is somewhere for people to do their grocery shopping, made up of 140 indoor and outdoor stalls and shops selling fresh fruit and vegetables, sausage, cheese and fancier specialty foods like olive oil, wine and tea.

But that is only half the story, as there’s a big biergarten in the centre of the marketplace, and one of Munich’s favourites.

If you’re peckish there’s a tantalising choice of food stalls or you could pick up a schnitzel or wurst from the biergarten’s own self-service restaurant.

Suggested tour : Viktualienmarkt 2-Hour Gourmet Food Tour: Munich

24. Hellabrunn Zoo

In 40 hectares on the meadow-covered right bank of the Isar in the south of the city, Hellabrunn Zoo rarely ranks outside the top five in Europe.

Established in 1911, it was one of the first in world to adopt moats and ditches as barriers instead of cages, but also introduced the concept of the Geo-Zoo, where animals are located according to their geographical regions.

If you’re concerned about the zoo’s humane credentials, it takes part in breeding programs for endangered species like silvery and drill baboons, as well as elephants, Arctic foxes and gorillas.

Alpacas, polar bears, South American sea lions and giraffes are a few of the 760-odd species.

And little ones can come and feed pygmy goats and Damara goats at two separate petting zoos.

25. Oktoberfest

Some of the figures associated with the world’s biggest beer festival are mind-blowing.

We’re talking seven million visitors and more than 7.5 million litres of beer consumed.

The 16-18-day festival begins on the third Saturday of September and goes back to 1810, when Prince Ludwig married Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

In 1896 the city’s breweries built gigantic beer tents for the celebration, and since then beer-drinking has been the main activity! There are 14 tents permanently set up at Theresienwiese in the west of the city, holding up to 8,500 revellers each.

Despite the capacity these tents fill up fast, so get there early in the day if you want a seat.

Also have a ball at the amusements and funfair rides, and be sure to soak up that alcohol with pretzels, bratwurst and schnitzel.

Book online : Munich: Oktoberfest

Suggested day trips from Munich :

• Day Trip to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles
• Dachau Concentration Camp Half-Day Tour from Munich
• Salzburg Day Trip from Munich by Train
• Romantic Road and Rothenburg from Munich

25 Best Things to Do in Munich (Germany):

• Alte Pinakothek
• Munich Residenz
• Neues Rathaus
• Englischer Garten
• Neue Pinakothek
• Marienplatz
• St Peter's Church
• Deutsches Museum
• Pinakothek der Moderne
• Lenbachhaus
• Asam Church
• Frauenkirche
• Theatine Church
• Bavarian National Museum
• Olympiapark
• Allianz Arena
• Munich National Theatre
• Müller'sches Volksbad
• Hofbräuhaus
• Viktualienmarkt
• Hellabrunn Zoo
• Oktoberfest

19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Munich

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Munich, the capital of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany, lies on the River Isar on the fringes of the Bavarian Alps. It began as a monastery, growing into a settlement when the Duke of Bavaria allowed the monks to establish a market at the crossing of the route from Salzburg and the river.

You can still follow the lines of Munich's medieval walls in a ring of curving streets and see three of its impressive old city gates. The focal point of Munich's historic inner city is the large, open square, the Marienplatz , where visitors and locals pause to watch the animated clock play out its legend two or three times daily.

Munich is a fun-loving city, known for its seasonal festivals and rich cultural calendar, so along with visiting the beautiful churches and outstanding museums and palaces, you should spend some time enjoying life with the locals at a festival, a colorful market, or over a slice of one of Munich's famous cakes in a konditorei.

Munich residents also enjoy their many public parks and gardens, in particular, the lovely 900-acre English Garden (Englischer Garten). Spend at least a few days exploring the city, planning your time with the help of this handy list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Munich

Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus

Walk or bike in the englischer garten (english garden), nymphenburg palace and gardens, munich residenz, the olympic park, viktualienmarkt, tierpark hellabrunn (hellabrunn zoo), shop at christmas markets (christkindlmarkts), art museums in the kunstareal district, peterskirche (st. peter's church), deutsches museum, asamkirche (asam church), frauenkirche, michaelskirche (st. michael's church), cuvilliés theater, the theatine church of st. cajetan, where to stay in munich for sightseeing, recommended day trip tours from munich, munich, germany - climate chart.

Marienplatz has been Munich's central square since the city's foundation; the site of medieval jousting tournaments; and until 1807, where markets were held. In addition to the massive Neues Rathaus (New City Hall) that fills one entire side of the square, you'll find the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) forming a gate at the far end.

In the large open square are the Mariensäule , a tall column to the Virgin Mary erected in 1638, and the Fischbrunnen , a newer fountain that includes bronze figures rescued from an earlier 19th-century fountain. Popular with shoppers for its stores, boutiques, and restaurants, Marienplatz is the focus of festivals and scene of a large Christmas Market , one of several in the city. During the Fasching carnival, the Narren-Lindwurm (dragon) dances over the square.

Daily at 11am and noon, and at 5pm from March through October, everyone stops to watch the famous Glockenspiel on the front of the Neues Rathaus, as its mechanical figures dine, joust, and dance. It's one of the city's best-loved traditions, and something you shouldn't miss. Take some time to appreciate the intricate stonework on the Neo-Gothic façade.

It's hard to remember that this building dates only from the late 19th century, completed in 1892. You can ride the elevator to the middle gallery of the building's 85-meter tower for views over the city. The Tourist Information Center is in the Rathaus, and in the back of the building is a restaurant serving traditional Bavarian dishes.

Address: Marienplatz, 80331 München

Munich's English Garden is not only the largest city park in Germany - it covers an area of 910 acres - it's also one of the most beautiful. Naturally arranged groups of trees and plants offer ever-changing vistas, and nine kilometers of winding streams and an artificial lake complete the impression of a natural landscape.

Designed in 1785 as a military garden, the English Garden attracts walkers, joggers, and cyclists to its 78 kilometers of pathways and bridle paths. It's also a pleasant place to sunbathe and picnic, and you can stop for a snack or drink at the Chinesischen Turm (Chinese Tower), a 25-meter-tall pagoda.

In 1972, a Japanese garden was created on an island at the southern end of the garden to house an authentic teahouse, a gift in honor of the 1772 Olympics. The park also contains the Bavarian National Museum, with its fine collection of medieval German sculptures and tapestries, and the Bavarian State Archaeological Collection , which displays local prehistoric artifacts.

A curiosity in the park is the Eisbachwelle , a wave created by the emergence of the Eisbach river from its underground course. Crowds gather to watch surfers' stunts; except for experienced surfers, it's a spectator sport and not for beginners.

The large Baroque palace of Nymphenburg, in the northwest outskirts of the city, was originally the summer residence of the Wittelsbach Electors in the 17th century. Extending more than 600 meters from wing to wing, this vast palace is surrounded on each side by the Nymphenburg Canal, which splits as it passes around the main buildings before reuniting again in a fountain-adorned pool in front of the main façade.

Your first stop should be the Central Pavilion , a cube-shaped palace in the style of an Italian villa, completed in 1674 and home to the lavishly decorated three-story Stone Hall (Steinerner Saal) and a number of private chambers with fine furnishings and artwork. In the Palace Chapel, notice the expressive ceiling painting illustrating the life of Mary Magdalene. Beside the palace in the former Court Stables, the Marstallmuseum displays a collection of beautiful state coaches.

In the magnificent 17th-century gardens of Nymphenburg Park stands the Amalienburg , a palatial hunting lodge known for its famous Hall of Mirrors. Elsewhere in the gardens are a maze with the Heckentheater (Hedge Theater); marble statues of Greek gods; a large fountain; and a number of hothouses, including the Palm House, which has Germany's first hot-water heating system.

Address: Schloss Nymphenburg 1, 80638 München

Official site: www.schloss-nymphenburg.de/englisch/palace/index.htm

For centuries the seat of the dukes, electors, and kings of Bavaria, the Munich Residenz is one of Europe's most spectacular palaces. Laid out around seven large courts, the vast Residenz complex comprises three main sections: the Königsbau , fronting onto Max-Joseph-Platz; the Alte Residenz , facing Residenzstrasse; and the Festsaalbau (Banqueting Hall), overlooking the Hofgarten .

The earliest section of this huge complex was the magnificent Antiquarium, built in 1579 and now part of the outstanding Residenz Museum . The Alte Residenz, a masterpiece of the late Renaissance and testimony to the growing power of Bavaria, followed soon after, and the final components - the Neoclassical Königsbau, the Festsaalbau, and the Court Church - were completed in 1848.

Today, the Residenz houses a number of monuments and museums, including the Residenz Museum, the Treasury, the Court Church of All Saints (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche), and Cuvilliés-Theater. Be sure to explore the palace grounds, too, with its many wonderful old courtyards and arcades.

Address: Residenzstrasse 1, 80333 München

Official site: www.residenz-muenchen.de/englisch/residenc/index.htm

Home to the 1972 Summer Olympics, Munich's spectacular Olympic Park covers an area of some 2.7 million square meters on the Oberwiesenfeld, a former training ground for the Royal Bavarian army. Now a major recreational center, this huge facility hosts a variety of major concerts and events, including the summer Tollwood Festival (the winter Tollwood is held at Theresienhöhe, home of the Oktoberfest).

A number of family activities have been added since the Olympics, so you'll find plenty of things to do here. These include a stadium roof climb, ziplining, and behind-the-scenes tours showcasing the facility's splendid architecture and design. The Olympic Tower , a 290-meter-high television tower built in 1968 that was renamed in honor of the games, has viewing platforms in the Aussichtskorb offering breathtaking views over the city.

Address: Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21, 80809 Munich

Official site: http://www.olympiapark.de/en/olympiapark-munich/

Next to BMW's soaring headquarters and factories at the Olympic Park is a round contemporary building with a metal shell, housing BMW's museum. Here, car fans will find examples of nearly all the models the company has made, including sports cars, racing models, and motorcycles.

You can see current models and learn about the technology of modern automobile construction, as well as get glimpses of future propulsion technologies and designs the company is exploring. Those who think cars are just for getting from point A to point B might want to skip this one, but for fans of things automotive, it's a must.

Address: Am Olympiapark 2, 80809 München

Official site: https://www.bmw-welt.com/en.html

Not to be confused with the BMW Museum (above), although it's on the same huge manufacturing complex near the Olympic Park, BMW Welt is a gigantic showroom. Here, you can see every vehicle the company makes, sit inside them, and learn what the future cars and motorcycles may look like.

Whereas the BMW Museum is more about past models and history, the Welt is all about now, with an exhibition area and a three-dimensional media façade with immersive visions of the future of mobility. Interactive exhibits consider sustainability and offer insights into the design process. You can take tours of the BMW Group Plant to see the production process.

Opened in 2007, the BMW Welt is the most visited tourist attraction in Bavaria. The building's futuristic steel-and-glass architecture is part of the allure, plus the fact that admission is free.

Address: Am Olympiapark, München

In 1807, when the farmers market outgrew Marienplatz, it was moved to the nearby square, where it thrived and expanded, until today it covers 22,000 square meters and includes a butchers' hall, bakery, fish hall, and flower market in addition to its fruit and vegetable vendors.

It's not just a place for locals to buy items for the night's dinner. Fresh breads and pastries, wheels of cheese, and cured meats are good picnic makings, and tables and benches provide a place for shoppers and visitors to sit while they eat sizzling sausages, hot pretzels, and other foods prepared in mobile kitchens.

Above the market stands a colorful maypole , with traditionally dressed figures representing the various crafts and trades that were practiced in this part of town.

Spread across 89 acres, Hellabrunn Zoo is consistently ranked among the best zoos in Europe. Laid out in 1911, it was the first zoo in the world to have animals grouped according to where they came from.

Today, more than 19,000 animals from 757 species are held in open enclosures meant to replicate the conditions of the wild, with animals that normally share habitats kept together wherever possible.

Popular features include the Elephant House (now a listed building), the enormous 5,000-square-meter free-flight aviary, the Polarium, and ape houses. Located adjacent to the Isar River in a designated conservation area, the zoo has many delightful footpaths, playgrounds, and picnic spots.

Address: Tierparkstrasse 30, 81543 München

From the last week in November until December 24 , the parks and squares of Munich turn into a colorful, sparkling Christmas extravaganza of colored lights, evergreen boughs, and holiday music. Colorful frosted gingerbread hearts decorate little cabins filled with candies, cookies, wooden toys, Christmas tree ornaments, and holiday baubles, as well as local handcrafts in all mediums.

The largest market is in Marienplatz , where local chorales serenade shoppers with Christmas music. Two blocks away, at the Rindermarkt, the market is filled with figures and accessories for crèche scenes. Miniature shepherds, wisemen, angels, animals, and the holy family are in every imaginable media: delicate Alpine woodcarvings from nearby Oberammergau, ceramic, terra-cotta pottery, wax, and plastic.

One of the most charming is the Christmas village inside the courtyard of the Residenz, where a children's theater and bakers turning out hot treats add to the appeal. Not far away, an entire square turns into a Medieval Marketplace, where artisans and craftspeople dressed in costumes of the Middle Ages demonstrate and sell authentic period goods.

Wherever you go, you will find traditional lebkuchen (gingerbread) from Nuremberg - sold at Munich's first Christmas markets in the 1600s and still favorites today.

Read More: Top-Rated Christmas Markets in Germany

Königsplatz was laid out in Neoclassical style in 1862, and in the art district around it, you'll find one of the finest groups of art museums anywhere in Europe. First are the three Pinakothek art galleries: the Old Picture Gallery (Alte Pinakothek), with its fine collections of Dutch, Flemish, Italian, French, German, Spanish, and medieval paintings; the New Picture Gallery (Neue Pinakothek), with its displays of art ranging from Rococo to Art Nouveau; and the State Gallery of Modern Art (Pinakothek der Moderne), which includes works by Picasso and Warhol.

Other museums of note are the Glyptothek and the State Antiquities Collection (Staatliche Antikensammlung), with their large compilations of ancient sculptures and antiquities.

The latest addition to this treasury of art is Lenbachhaus , an Italianate villa that was the home and studio of artist Franz von Lenbach. The villa and its new extension house the world's foremost collection of works by the Blue Rider movement, a group of Expressionist painters led by Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc.

Address: Königsplatz 1, 80333 München

Known affectionately as Old Peter, St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) is Munich's oldest parish church and stands on Petersberg, a small hill originally settled by monks. Built in Gothic style in 1386, the church was altered with the addition of a Baroque choir with three apses in 1636, while the tower was given a lantern dome in place of its earlier Gothic spires.

Interior highlights include the font by Hans Krumper, the red marble monuments by Erasmus Grasser, and the 15th-century Schrenk Altar with its sculptures of the Crucifixion and the Last Judgment. Also of note is the 20-meter-tall 18th-century high altar with its figures of the Four Fathers of the Church and St. Peter.

The panel-paintings on the choir walls by Jan Polack are also worth seeing, as is the highly regarded Altar of the Virgin of Mercy (Mariahilf-Altar) from 1756. Finally, the 299-step tower - famous for its eight clock faces matched by eight bells - reaches a height of 91 meters and offers panoramic views as far as the Alps for those with the stamina to climb the 306 steps.

Address: Rindermarkt 1, 80331 München

In the center of Munich, just off Odeonsplatz, the Hofgarten (Court Garden) was built between 1613 and 1617 , adjoining the Residenz and for the sole use of the court. It remained a private preserve for more than 160 years, opening to the public in 1780.

Since then this peaceful sanctuary with its intersecting paths, fountains, beds of bright flowers, and shaded arcades have been a favorite place for locals and visitors to stroll and relax. The focal point is the central pavilion, featuring eight arches, with paths radiating from each one to form beds for lawns and flowers. Fountains mark the points where the paths intersect.

Modeled on Italian Renaissance gardens when it was designed, the Hofgarten became more like the then-popular landscape gardens during the 19 th century. After its destruction in World War II, it was rebuilt to more resemble the original.

The Deutsches Museum is the world's largest museum of technology, and its 17,000 artifacts illustrate exhibits that range from the polished wood and brass of early astronomical instruments to the latest science on global warming. The museum is a constant time travel between early tech and high tech, as you follow the development of each scientific and technical discipline from its beginnings to the present.

The extensive collections relating to transport are astonishing, covering trains, aircraft, shipping, cars, even bicycles. You can see a replica of the Red Baron's biplane from the First World War, examine a Venetian gondola up close, and look inside a 19th-century wooden fishing boat. There's always something happening, from dramatic demonstrations of electricity to concerts showing how musical instruments work.

Kids' Kingdom is filled with clever hands-on activities designed for children ages three through eight, exploring light, music, ships, computers, water, sound, astronomy, and more. It is Germany's most popular museum and a favorite place to visit for families.

Address: Museumsinsel 1, 80538 München

Official site: www.deutsches-museum.de/en

The beautiful Rococo Asam Church, dedicated to St. John of Nepomuk, was completed in 1746 by brothers Cosmas and Egid Asam and is richly decorated with stucco figures, frescoes, and oil paintings. While its exterior is impressive enough, particularly the large doorway flanked by massive columns and crowned by a figure of St. John kneeling in prayer, it's the interior that's most memorable.

Highlights include a wrought-iron grille from 1776 that separates the stucco figures of the saints from the long nave with its galleries. On the projecting cornice under the ceiling is a magnificent fresco depicting the life of St. John. The most notable feature of the interior, though, is the high altar, enclosed by four twisted columns and on which sits a glass shrine containing a wax figure of the church's patron saint.

Address: Sendlinger Straße 32, 80331 München

Munich's huge brick Frauenkirche - the Cathedral Church of Our Lady - was completed in 1488, a Late Gothic church that owes its impact to its great size. Massive twin 100-meter-tall towers, with their characteristic Renaissance domes, tower over a high building 109 meters long by 40 meters wide.

Highlights inside the cathedral include the 1622 Tomb of the Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian in black marble with bronze figures, a 1620 altarpiece of the Assumption by Peter Candid, and the Baroque red marble font in the Baptistery with its early 14th-century Sorrowing Christ.

A popular curiosity is the strange footprint in the floor of the porch, said to have been left by the devil after he came to inspect the church. So delighted was he that the windows seemed to have been forgotten (the row of columns hides them when the church is viewed from the entrance), he stamped his foot, leaving the footprint that can still be seen today.

The twin towers of Frauenkirche are a good landmark for orientation, visible from all over the city. You can climb to the top for views across the city to the Bavarian Alps.

Address: Frauenplatz 12, 80331 München

• Read More: Exploring Munich's Frauenkirche (The Cathedral of Our Lady)

The largest Renaissance church north of the Alps, St. Michael's was completed in 1597, with a high barrel-vaulted roof in the nave. The pattern of the triumphal arch at the entrance to the choir is continued in the arches of the transepts, side chapels, and galleries. The three-story-high altar has an altarpiece, St. Michael Fighting the Devil , from 1587.

The four bronze reliefs dating from 1595 were intended for the tomb of Duke William V, while in the side chapels are some fine paintings and a precious reliquary of Saints Cosmas and Damian from around 1400.

The church's historical importance is in the Royal Crypt (Fürstengruft) underneath the choir, where 41 members of the House of Wittelsbach - among them Duke Wilhelm V, the church's patron; Elector Maximilian I; and King Ludwig II - are buried.

Address: Neuhauser Straße 6, 80333 München

On the east side of the Residenz in Munich, the Cuvilliés Theater was built in 1755 and is the finest example of a Rococo theater with tiered boxes in Germany. The magnificent carved woodwork of the auditorium, with its four tiers of boxes, including one built especially for the electors, was safely stored away during WWII, thus allowing its reconstruction in 1958.

Architecturally stunning, the rare elegance and rich hues of its intimate Rococo interior makes it a truly unique setting for operas such as Mozart's Idomeneo, which premiered here in 1781, and which, along with many other Late Baroque period operas, is still performed on occasion. You can visit the theater separately or on a combined ticket with the Residenz and its museums.

Address: Residenzstraße 1, 80539 München

Official site: http://www.residenz-muenchen.de/englisch/cuv/

The Theatine Church of St. Cajetan (Theatinerkirche St. Kajetan), a basilica built in the style of the Italian High Baroque, was completed in 1690, with a stunning façade, twin towers, a massive 71-meter-high dome, and richly decorated interior. Exterior highlights include numerous marble statues of saints and the lantern with a lion weathervane atop the dome.

The interior, dominated by the tall round-headed arches of the barrel vaulting and the dome over the crossing, is washed in white, with rich stucco ornamentation. Other interior highlights include the high altar, with its picture of The Virgin Enthroned with Angels from 1646 by Caspar de Crayer (a pupil of Rubens), and the Altar of the Virgin, with a painting of the Holy Kinship from 1676. In the Ducal Burial Vault, you'll see the tombs of members of the House of Wittelsbach, long-time rulers of Bavaria.

Address: Salvatorplatz 2a, 80333 München

All that remains of the medieval walls that once enclosed Munich's Altstadt (old town) are the impressive gates at Karlstor, Sendlinger Tor, and Isartor, but the broad, curving streets that replaced them still define the historic center. It's here that you'll find most tourist attractions, with Marienplatz at its center. Major museums lie just outside the compact center. Most of these highly rated hotels in Munich are an easy walk from Marienplatz:

Luxury Hotels :

• Near the Isartor and 10 minutes from Marienplatz, Hotel Torbraeu has nicely furnished rooms in a historic building.
• In the heart of the old city overlooking Viktualienmarkt, near the daily food and flower market, Louis Hotel offers spacious, stylish rooms and a sauna/fitness area.
• A pool and sauna are added benefits at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munchen , set amid high-end shops on the uber-fashionable Maximilianstrasse, a five-minute walk from Marienplatz.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Locations simply don't get any better than Platzl Hotel , next to the Residenz palace and museums and a few steps from Marienplatz and shopping streets. Breakfast is included, and the beautifully furnished rooms have thoughtful amenities. Two blocks from the Residenz palace and museums and close to Marienplatz,
• Maximilian Munich is on a quiet street, with some rooms overlooking a garden courtyard.
• The hospitable Hotel Mirabell offers well-furnished rooms in a neighborhood beside the main train station, just off Karlsplatz and the entrance to the old town.

Budget Hotels:

• Family-friendly Hotel Biederstein is opposite the English Garden in the lively Schwabing neighborhood; a buffet breakfast is included.
• Breakfast is included at Jedermann Hotel , a 15-minute walk from the old town but on a tram line to its center.
• Near Sendlinger Tor and the Rococo-style Asamkirche and a ten-minute walk from Marienplatz, Acanthushotel has small, comfortable rooms.
• Contemporary guest rooms at Schwan Locke are large, some with kitchenettes. The hotel is close to the main train station and within walking distance of Karlsplatz and Marienplatz.
• Just two hours by train from Munich is the beautiful city of Salzburg; birthplace of Mozart and the setting of the film The Sound of Music. If you have time to add this city to your itinerary, the Salzburg Small Group Day Tour from Munich is a hassle free, comfortable, and fun way to see Salzburg in a day. This tour includes a scenic rail journey, a walking tour of Salzburg, and free time to wander the historic streets on your own.

Castle Tours:

• To see some of Germany's beautiful castles, there are a couple of options: The Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Day Tour from Munich takes you on a full-day tour to the Bavarian Mountains to see the Neuschwanstein Castle, used as a model for Disney's Sleeping Beauty, and the Linderhof hunting lodge castle. The slightly shorter Neuschwanstein Castle Small Group Day Tour includes just one castle. Note that both of these tours exclude entrance fees to the castles.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site :

• The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Small Group Tour from Munich is a five-hour trip with a professional guide to this memorial site, set on the grounds of the former concentration camp. The tour includes round-trip transportation and a guide.

More on Germany

12 of the best things to do in Munich

May 8, 2024 • 6 min read

Experience the best of Munich with this guide to the city's top things to do © Nikada / Getty Images

Famous for its beer festival and Bavarian traditions, Munich  is all of that and much more.

Come for its world-class museums, beautiful old town, large opera house, food markets and vibrant neighborhoods , knowing that at the end of the day, a large beer will always be waiting for you.

Here are the top things to do in Munich.

1. Explore Munich’s old town

A logical place to start a tour of the old town, or the whole city, is central square and popular meeting place Marienplatz . Here you’ll find the fairy-tale-like Altes Rathaus and the gargoyle-adorned Neues Rathaus . The latter dominates the square and sees crowds gather below its neo-Gothic tower to watch the famous Glockenspiel in action.

At 11am, noon and (from March to October) 5pm, colorful figures depict moments from Munich’s history to the sound of chiming bells. To see this spectacle from a different angle, grab a window seat at MONACO cafe  on the 4th floor of the Ludwig Beck department store or Cafe Glockenspiel directly opposite the new town hall.

First time in Munich? Here's what you need to know before you go

2. Take a stroll in Englischer Garten, Munich’s huge park 

Sweeping through Munich, Englischer Garten is one of the world’s largest urban parks. Providing shade and swimming opportunities in summer, snowy slopes for sledding in winter and beautiful colors in the autumn, this expansive space is a much-loved oasis in the middle of the city. Not to miss are the surfers at the Eisbach wave or the skyline views from the Monopteros temple. 

Local tip: Even as a local, it’s possible to get lost here. Fortunately, it doesn’t take long before you stumble across a beer garden, a kiosk or a map to help you get your bearings.

3. Get dressed up for a night at the opera 

Home to one of the largest opera stages in the world, the neoclassical National Theater is the main venue for the Bavarian State Opera, the Bavarian State Ballet and the Bavarian State Orchestra. Richard Wagner premiered several of his works at this theater, which opened in 1818. Today you’ll find a diverse program of events for adults and children that can be booked online.

Planning tip: Even if you don’t have time to catch a performance, be sure to stroll past the building at night to see the facade lit up in all its glory.

Find your way around in Munich with our guide to local transportation

4. Taste hearty Bavarian cuisine in Munich’s beer halls

For some great local grub, head to one of Munich’s many beer halls or Wirtshäuser (taverns). Arrive hungry and dig into pork knuckles, roast chicken, dumplings and large Brotzeit platters laden with cheese, cured meats and pickles. Alternatively, try a traditional breakfast that includes an early-morning beer.  Der Pschorr or the famous Hofbräuhaus , both in the center of Munich, are good starting points. If you’re lucky, your meal might even be accompanied by a brass band! 

5. Join the locals for drinks at a beer garden

Best enjoyed on a sunny summer afternoon, Munich’s many beer gardens are one of the best ways to experience local culture. Wherever you go, you’ll sit with others on communal tables, discover culinary delights such as Steckerlfisch (fish grilled on a stick) or Obazda (Bavarian cheese spread) and enjoy a few cold beers. For the full monty, try Bavaria’s biggest beer garden Hirschgarten or the leafy Augustiner Keller close to the central station. For something more low key, try Zum Flaucher close to the river.

Local tip:  Note that many places only serve beer by the liter after 4pm.

Traveling on a budget? Here are our money-saving tips for a visit to Munich

6. Explore Schloss Nymphenburg palace and its grounds

One of Munich’s top sights, Schloss Nymphenburg comes with grand interiors and expansive grounds. Initially home to a summer residence, commissioned to celebrate the birth of a long-awaited heir to the throne in 1662, the site used to be located far beyond the borders of the city. Today both the palace and the city have expanded significantly, with the area now surrounded by urban life. 

7. Go for a swim at Müller'sches Volksbad

Open since 1901, Müller'sches Volksbad is the oldest public indoor pool in the city. The palatial building on the banks of the Isar, not far from the Deutsches Museum , is also one of Munich’s finest examples of art nouveau architecture. Guests can choose between two pools – previously for different genders, now with different temperatures – and try a selection of saunas and steam baths. Think lovingly maintained paintings, pillars and statues, rather than slides and wave machines.

8. Grab a bite to eat from Viktualienmarkt, the city’s largest market

The green stalls at Viktualienmarkt , Munich’s biggest open-air market, move with the seasons. Open six days a week, it’s the place to come for artisanal cheeses, local honey and other local (and non-local) fresh products. You’ll also find places serving freshly pressed juices, sparkling wine and specialty coffee – and, of course, a beer garden sits in the middle of it all.

Planning tip: Because of its location next to Marienplatz, this is also the perfect spot for a quick lunch in between sights. Try  Caspar Plautz for top-notch baked potatoes or Poseidon for fish soup. 

Our seasonal guide can help you choose the right time for your trip to Munich

9. Explore many of Germany’s best museums in the Kunstareal

Packed with museums, galleries and academic institutions, the Kunstareal art quarter is the place to go for a culture fix. The compact area is home to many highlights such as the Alte Pinakothek , Neue Pinakothek and Pinakothek der Moderne , and it’s easy to explore on foot. Thanks to its location in the student district, this area also has plenty of fun and affordable places to eat and drink nearby. 

10. Gaze down from Munich’s best viewing platforms

Munich has several vantage points offering excellent panoramas of the city and beyond. In the center, you’ll find the 85m-high (279ft) observation tower in the Neues Rathaus (with an elevator) and the viewing platform in St Peter’s church (without an elevator). Olympic Park has the Olympiaturm , and the large Ferris wheel known as Umadum  is in the Werksviertel. Many of Munich’s hotels also have roof terraces while restaurants such as Fitzroy are great for dinner with a view.

Planning tip: In the warmer months, look out for pop-up open-air venues that appear on the top floors of parking garages and cultural venues.

11. Drink up at Oktoberfest, the world’s biggest beer festival 

Join the revelers that descend on Oktoberfest, the world’s biggest beer festival , every year. You can enjoy the festive spirit in the city or head to the site for fairground rides and beer tents. It’s not all a beer-fueled party: Visitors to the event can also go for lunch in the late fall sun or experience the historic rides and traditional games at the Oide Wiesn. If you're not keen on crowds, though, it's best to avoid visiting during Oktoberfest.

12. Tap into the city’s personality in Munich’s neighborhoods

If you’re ready for a break from sightseeing at Munich’s best-known spots and want to see another side of the city, you can explore several neighborhoods not far from the center that are worth a visit.

Head to Haidhausen for relaxed village vibes, Schwabing for art nouveau grandeur or Maxvorstadt for student hangouts. All make for a relaxing afternoon of coffee and cake or an evening of dinner and drinks. Try Nana for Israeli cuisine in Haidhausen, Das Weinheim for cheese fondue in Schwabing or Gratitude for vegan creations in Maxvorstadt.

Check out Munich one neighborhood at a time with our guide

This article was first published Mar 14, 2022 and updated May 8, 2024.

Explore related stories

May 18, 2024 • 10 min read

Venture beyond magnificent Munich to discover Bavarian mountains, fairy-tale castles and incredible culture on a day trip. Here are 10 of our favorites.

May 10, 2024 • 9 min read

Mar 28, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 22, 2022 • 5 min read

Sep 28, 2021 • 5 min read

Aug 13, 2019 • 7 min read

Sep 6, 2018 • 7 min read

Jan 8, 2016 • 5 min read

Jul 25, 2024 • 6 min read

May 10, 2024 • 5 min read

2 Days in Munich: Perfect Itinerary & Best Things To Do

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my  disclaimer policy.

Thinking about visiting Munich on your Germany vacation? This guide will help you plan the perfect trip!

Planning a visit to Munich, Germany for the first time can be a daunting but ultimately rewarding experience if you’ve never been there before. This guide is here to help!

From historic plazas to world-renowned beer halls, the Bavarian capital offers plenty of places to experience Munich’s rich culture and unique activities for every kind of traveler.

I’ve visited Munich many times and have never run out of things to do and places to explore. In fact, the more I visit, the more I find to do!

Join our FREE Germany Trip Planning Facebook Group!

If you’re planning a short visit and want to see as many sites as possible, this article will help you plan a Munich itinerary that will make the most out of your stay, whether you’re visiting for 2 days or even more!

• 1 When to Visit Munich
• 2 Getting to Munich
• 3 Where to Stay in Munich
• 4 Best Way to Get Around Munich
• 5 Best Guided Tours in Munich
• 6 2 Days In Munich Itinerary Ideas
• 7 What to Do & See in Munich in 2 Days
• 8 Old Town (Altstadt)
• 9 If You Have 3 Days in Munich
• 10 Best Day Trips from Munich

When to Visit Munich

There’s really no “best time” to visit Munich because it’s a wonderful city to visit any time of year. I’ve spent time there in the summer, fall, and late winter/early spring and have never been disappointed!

That said, each season can bring something totally different to your experience depending on what you’re looking for.

During summer , you’ll enjoy sunny blue skies and outdoor festivals, beer gardens, or picnics in the parks. But prepare yourself for crowded streets and the heat since there’s not as much air-conditioning in Germany.

If it’s Oktoberfest you’re after, visiting during the fall is the best option. The event begins mid- or late-September and lasts until early October, so you can expect accommodation and airfare costs to be at their peak during this time period. For the weather, September is usually still warm but it gets a bit colder towards October. 

Visiting during winter can be a great way to make the most out of the off-season prices, especially if you’re comfortable with snow and cold temperatures. The air is filled with festivities brought by the Christmas markets and events around the city. You can also plan a day trip and venture outside the city for winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, or sledding.

If you come during spring , you’ll be welcomed with trees and flowers blooming as well as outdoor markets and activities kicking into gear. But the weather can be unpredictable – a couple of days can bring light breezes and warmth but other days can be gloomy, rainy or even snowy.

Grab our FREE Germany Trip Planning Checklist Now!

Getting to Munich

Munich is one of the biggest cities in Germany, so it’s very well connected and easy to get to.

You can fly in via Munich Airport, which welcomes flights daily from all over the world. Depending on where you’re flying from, you might be able to find a direct flight from abroad into Munich (I’ve flown directly into Munich from the US east coast).

To get into Munich’s city-center from the airport you can take the S-bahn (cheap and takes 45-60 minutes), a taxi or arrange an airport transfer ahead of time.

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Germany, buying a train ticket to Munich’s central train station, (the main train station is called München Hauptbahnhof in German) is one of the easiest and best ways to get to the city.

Taking the bus is another option, and you’ll arrive at the bus station located right next to the train station.

If you’re traveling to Munich from another city in Germany or country in Europe, I recommend looking at both flights and train tickets. Flying within Europe and in Germany is easy but often it’s quicker, easier, and more relaxing to take the train.

Where to Stay in Munich

The first thing you should consider when planning your trip is where to stay. If you’re planning to be in Munich for 2 full days, plan to spend 3 nights in Munich. You can get away with 2 nights if you can arrive early in the morning and/or leave in the late afternoon or evening.

Luckily, Munich offers countless of options for accommodation. Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose between luxury hotel rooms, serviced apartments, or boutique B&Bs.

I’ve stayed in both apartments and hotels in Munich. I enjoyed my stay at Hotel Am Viktualenmarkt a few years ago. It’s close to the old town but on a quiet street. The staff were friendly, the beds were comfortable, and the breakfast was delicious!

For more information on how to decide where to stay in Munich, check out our guide of the best hotels in Munich .

Best Way to Get Around Munich

There are a variety of ways to explore Munich. If you’re looking to see as many of the city’s best sights, I recommend booking a Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour ticket here.

This is a great option that allows you to comfortably navigate each tourist attraction at your own pace or simply get a quick and easy tour of the city. You can choose from 3 routes, each taking an hour and covering 16 stops around the city, all for the price of one ticket!

We’ve started doing these tours because they’re a great way to quickly get an overview of a city before zeroing in on specific sights, and they enable you to see a lot in a short amount of time (if you ride the entire route without getting off), which is perfect when you’re only in a city for a couple days.

Besides taxis and rental cars, the city also has a robust and effective public transportation network. You can get everywhere you want to go on the U-bahn (underground train), the S-bahn (aboveground city railway), trams, and buses.

You can also get around the downtown area and city by foot, since it’s very walkable. When I stay in a downtown hotel I mostly walk around Munich. When I stay in an AirBnB away from downtown I buy day passes and use public transit.

Best Guided Tours in Munich

Guided tours are an excellent resource that travelers often overlook!

I sure did, and for many years I was determined to do everything on my own.

Then I started adding in guided tours and guided day trips and have enjoyed and appreciated what they’ve added to my vacation – time to actually be in the moment and enjoy my travels!

There are so many reasons and benefits for taking a guided tour.

First of all, tours take out the stress of planning the perfect itinerary, finding the best prices for tickets, and arranging transportation. These are all taken care of, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy!

Second, if you’re not staying in place for a long time, a local tour guide covers all the city highlights in the most time effective way – and you can ask questions and get to know a place in more depth.

It can be difficult to meet locals on a vacation, and taking a guided tour is one way to easily connect with interesting, knowledge, and fun locals.

Lastly, a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference if you don’t speak the country’s language. They can also give you insights into the local culture and show you hidden gems that you wouldn’t otherwise find by yourself.

If you’re only in the city for a day or two and are looking for an exciting twist to the typical walking tour, then book this Segway tour to zoom through the streets of Munich from a unique perspective. I’ve listed a few more guided tours below, so keep reading!

2 Days In Munich Itinerary Ideas

What you see while in Munich depends on several factors – your interests, whether you like sight-seeing at a fast or relaxed pace, whether you prefer to eat every meal in a sit-down restaurant or on the go, where your lodging is located, etc.

That said, here are a few ideas for how you could plan your 2-day Munich itinerary:

Itinerary #1: Self-Guided Munich Day 1: Visit the Old Town sites, Viktuellenmarkt (great for lunch), Munich Residenz or an art museum, and then spend the evening taking a stroll through the English Garden and having a beer at the Chinese Tower Beer Garden.

Day 2: Visit Nymphenburg Palace in the morning, hit up 1 or 2 museums in the afternoon, and then take a Bavarian beer and food tour in the evening.

Itinerary #2: Pack in As Much As Possible Day 1: Ride the Hop On Hop Off bus in the morning to get an overview of the city, enjoy a quick lunch at the Viktuellenmarkt then take a 3-hour segway tou r. After dinner enjoy a walk through the English Garden.

Day 2: Spend half of the day visiting Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial and the rest of the day visiting either the BMW museum or taking a Munich food tour or a 3rd Reich tour . Spend the evening enjoying dinner and a stroll through the Old Town.

Itinerary #3: Guided Tours & A Day Trip

Day 1: Spend the morning seeing the Old Town and taking a gourmet food tour of Viktuellenmarkt . In the afternoon, go on a guided bike tour of the city. Enjoy dinner and beer in the evening.

Day 2: Take a day trip to from Munich to Neuschwanstein , Linderhof and Neuschwanstein , the Romantic Road or Salzburg, Austria .

What to Do & See in Munich in 2 Days

Below are the top sights in Munich. You likely won’t be able to fit all of them in a 2-day visit but this guide gives you an idea of the best things to add to your itinerary. I’ve also listed a few of the best options for day trips.

Old Town (Altstadt)

Munich’s Old Town (Altstadt) is characterized by its historic buildings and streets lined with cathedrals, boutiques, and food stalls. There are many must-sees throughout Old Town such as the city center plaza called Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche cathedral and Staatliches Hofbräuhaus (Royal Brewery). Don’t miss out any of these famous landmarks and take this guided walking tour to learn about the city’s history.

New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus )

Located in the heart of the city in Marienplatz, Neues Rathaus is an iconic feature of Munich’s skyline. Though it mainly operates as a city hall for government employees, the building also attracts tourists because of its panoramic views and famous balcony where football team FC Bayern celebrates wins.

You also can’t miss out on the Glockenspiel’s daily chime at noon and dancing figures!

Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus )

Another one of Munich’s famous town halls is Altes Rathaus. Located in the eastern end of Marienplatz, this town hall’s history dates back to 1310. It has undergone many renovations and served the state in different capacities but is now used for celebrations, memorials or award ceremonies. It is also home to the Toy Museum (Munich Spielzeugmuseum).

Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum)

This quirky, fun museum is a popular destination for families and kids. But if you’re feeling nostalgic you can also visit to admire the old-fashioned interiors or see how toys have developed over the years, from wooden toys to tin toys, to Barbies and steam engine trains.

St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche)

Another historic symbol of Munich is the St. Peter’s Church, the city’s oldest remaining Catholic church located right by Marienplatz and Viktuellenmarkt . Dating all the way back to the 12 th century, the church is known for its Gothic architecture and ceiling frescos. Climbing the church tower’s 306 steps is worth it to get a stunning view of Old Town Munich.

Victulas Market (Viktuellenmarkt)

Just walking distance from Marienplatz, you’ll find Viktuellenmarkt, a food market with over 140 stalls selling fruits, vegetables, bread, cheese, sausages, and so much more. Aside from these food staples, you can also try out exotic fruit or buy artisanal goods to gift as souvenirs. If you’re looking to learn about the market’s history and get a taste of Bavarian cuisine, book the ultimate food lover’s gourmet tour here .

Munich Residenz ( Residenz München)

At the center of Munich, you’ll find Munich Residenz, the biggest city palace in Germany. This magnificent palace complex is made up of lush gardens, lavish rooms, and courtyards that are open to the public through museum visits.

Some highlights here are the Cuvilliés Theatre, the Hercules Hall, and the Treasury. Because of the palace’s sheer size and its rich history, this would be the perfect place to book a guided tour to make the most out of your visit.

Cuvilles Theater (Old Residence Theater)

The Cuvillies Theater is one of Munich’s most important cultural venues. Located inside the Munich Residenz, this rococo theater is made up of four floors with 14 boxes each, all decorated in red walls and gold ornaments. Here you can watch classical concerts featuring resident soloists, members of the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra and the Symphony Orchestra of the Bavarian Radio. If you don’t have time for a show, you can simply visit through a guided tour.

English Garden (Englischer Garten )

Spanning over 21 acres, the English Garden (Englischer Garten) is one of the largest parks in the world, famously bigger than New York’s Central Park. The park is filled with cultural landmarks like the Chinese Tower, a Japanese tea house, and Monopteros, a Greek temple offering a panoramic view of the city. This is also a great place to visit if you have free time to enjoy recreational activities like cycling, rowing and even surfing!

Chinese Tower Beer Garden ( Biergarten am Chinesischen Turm )

The Chinese Tower Beer Garden is an essential stop in the English Garden. As one of the biggest beer gardens in the city, it has almost 7,000 seats which brings both locals and tourists together. It’s directly connected to a restaurant where you can enjoy Bavarian cuisine. On certain days, you can also catch live music performances by a brass band.

Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is an impressive institution with exhibits featuring over 50 different fields of science and technology. If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of the best things you can do in the city. Each area is highly interactive, from the planetarium to a reproduction of a cave, and even an underground mining complex. You can easily spend a full day worth of fun here!

Alte Pinakothek

Munich is home to some of the best museums in the world, many of them located in the Kunstareal (Art District) area. Each museum features different time periods and art movements. Alte Pinakothek shows the development of art from the middle ages to the 18 th century. Among the 700+ artworks on display, you’ll see works from masters like Albrecht Dürer, Sandro Botticelli, and Leonardo Da Vinci.

Pinakothek der Moderne

Another great museum in the art district is the Pinakothek der Moderne, which is comprised of 4 major museums. Each is dedicated to a different specialization: modern and contemporary art, design, architecture, and works on paper (graphic art). This comprehensive museum covers all the bases of modern art. A must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.

Neue Pinakothek

Neue Pinakothek is one of the most renowned museums of European art, featuring 18 th to 19 th century art from different movements such as Art Nouveau and Impressionism. In here you can admire works from the great pioneers of modern art like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Paul Cézanne.

Unfortunately, it has been closed down since December 2018 for renovations. You can get to all other museums easily by taking the tram line 27 and stopping at the Pinakothekstation.

Museum Brandhorst

The Museum Brandhorst is a museum for contemporary art located in the art district area. The vibrant and colorful exterior gives you an idea of the kind of art exhibited inside which features Pop Art, expressive painting and Cubism. The museum attracts visitors from all over the world as it is houses the Andy Warhol largest collection in Europe. Other famous works you can find here are by artists Cy Twombly and Pablo Picasso.

Beer Halls & Beer Gardens

You can’t leave the city without immersing yourself in Munich’s beer and food culture. One of the best ways to experience this is a night at a beer hall, tasting different beer and trying traditional Bavarian food.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the options in the city but if you’re looking for the complete package, then book this tour for a one of a kind evening at a traditional beer-hall . It includes personalized recommendations by a local, an exclusive tour of the Oktoberfest Museum, and of course, a beer sampling session and a platter of Bavarian delicacies.

Munich Christmas Markets (Münchener Weihnachtsmarkt / Christkindlmarkt)

Like many German cities, Munich is no stranger to Christmas markets. The oldest and most authentic one is Munich Christmas Market, located in Marienplatz besides Neues Rathaus. Festive stalls line up the plaza selling handicrafts, hot chestnuts and almonds, and mulled wine. Traditional Bavarian music is performed throughout advent on the town hall balcony, complete with choirs and live musicians.

Since there are many markets scattered throughout the city, there is a Christmas market for every kind of traveler. For fun activities with kids like a treasure hunt and horse carriage rides, then Christmas Market at the Chinese Tower is the one for you. Another one worth visiting is the Christmas Village at the Munich Residenz. This market is modeled after an Alpine village and showcases more artisanal creations and gourmet food.

Olympic Park (Olympiapark)

Built for the 1972 Summer Olympic Games, the Olympic Park is still a popular destination that attracts both locals and tourists. More than a park, it is also where sporting, social and cultural events are held. If you’re a sports fan, you can visit the state-of-the art fitness facilities, swimming pools, and skating rink.

Other relaxing alternatives include dining at the park’s revolving restaurant, checking out an outdoor performance, or simply strolling along the Olympic lake. Though it’s located in the North of Munich, it is a quick 10-minute walk away from the Olympiazentrum U-bahn station.

BMW World (BMW Welt)

BMW Welt is Bavaria’s most visited tourist attraction maybe because there is nothing else like it elsewhere in the world. Located next to the Olympic Park, BMW Welt is the home for all brands under the BMW Group which actually includes BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce.

This futuristic building contains an exhibition center, an event venue, a museum, and delivery center. You can learn about the brand’s history through the BMW Museum’s guided tours, admire the latest models in the showroom, or even watch exciting stunts by professional motorcyclists!

Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

Nymphenburg Palace and the beautiful gardens it occupies is one of the city’s most vibrant spots. Inside, you can get a glimpse into the palace’s history through its ornate furnishings and ballrooms. There are also several museums inside specializing in areas like natural history, porcelain, and royal carriages.

The sprawling gardens are also filled with pavilions and smaller palaces. Some worth mentioning are Amalienburg with its mirrored halls and Badenburg, a sauna and bathing hall. The palace is easily reached by bus or tram at the station called “Schloss Nymphenburg.”

Dachau Concentration Camp (KZ Gedenkstätte Dachau)

If you’re looking for an important educational tour, check out this half-day trip to the Dachau Memorial Site . Led by professionally trained guides, this tour is sensitive to the historical context of the former concentration camp. The tour covers the entire area including the museum exhibition, the original remaining structures, and the cinema that screens informative documentaries in English.

If You Have 3 Days in Munich

If you are staying in Munich for 3 days or even more, then you’ll certainly have a better chance of hitting as many of the spots listed above. Since a couple of the sites are close to each other, you’ll be able to see several attractions in one go.

You also have the opportunity to dive even deeper into the city’s history. If you are interested in learning about one of the darkest moments in both Munich and the world, then book this 2-hour walking tour that traces the rise of the Third Reich under Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party.

Sports is also a big part of Munich’s history. If you are a big football fan, book this Bayern-München Football Stadium Tour to visit the team’s official museum and training grounds, and explore the grand Allianz Arena.

B est Day Trips from Munich

If you have more time and are looking to explore new sights beyond the city, you can take a day trip to any of Munich’s surrounding areas.

One of your travel options is to book full-day tours, which removes the stress of planning since transportation is usually taken care of. But you can also visit any of these cities and sites by renting a car or via public transportation, like trains or buses.

Linderhof & Neuschwanstein Castles

Bavaria is home to some of the most beautiful castles in Central Europe. One of them is Linderhof, located 1.5 hour away from Munich. Though it’s the smallest of King Ludwig II’s castles, it’s the only completed one and still just as stunning.

After Linderhof you can make your way to Neuschwanstein, Germany’s top tourist destination. This iconic castle is straight out of a fairytale and is known worldwide as the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s castle. For more information on how to get from Munich to Linderhof and then Neuschwanstein, check out this full-day tour complete with transportation here .  

Romantic Road

If you’re interested in experiencing medieval Germany, then go on this tour that takes you down the Romantic Road . The journey starts with Harburg Castle, one of the oldest castles in Southern Germany and takes you all the way to Rothenburg, a charming restored medieval town.

Salzburg, Austria

You can also make the most out of your stay in Munich and venture out to a whole other country by booking a day trip to Salzburg here .

From Munich you can cross the Austrian border into Salzburg via a 2-hour train ride. Salzburg, celebrated by many as Mozart’s hometown and the setting of “The Sound of Music”, is visited by millions of tourists per year.

This place is perfect for a day trip – it’s a well-preserved charming town unlike any in Europe and it’s small enough where you can visit most if not all of the most famous landmarks in a day.

Grab your FREE 10 Germany Gems Cheatsheet Now!

Cate has been traveling to Germany for 30+ years. She has lived in Germany, taught college German, and has a PhD in German Applied Linguistics. She loves helping travelers plan their dream trips to Germany!

Similar Posts

Best Things to Do and See in Tübingen, Germany

Summer in Germany: 19 Beautiful Places to Visit & Things to Do

Best Castles To Visit Near Frankfurt, Germany

What to Do In Berchtesgaden, Germany (Including Eagle’s Nest And Surrounding Area)

Best Castles and Palaces in (or Near) Berlin, Germany

Best German Translator Apps for English Speakers

Here’s how we can help you plan your perfect trip in 2024.

GERMANY TRAVEL PLANNER:  Just getting started? Have questions about Germany’s confusing train tickets or how to find the best guided tours? Not sure which parts of Germany should be in your itinerary (and what to leave out)? Our  Germany Travel Planner  answers those questions and more via how-to videos, our interactive Germany Planning Map, City Cheatsheets, and MUCH more. Click here to unlock the best of Germany the easy way!

GERMANY TRAVEL CONSULT:  Feeling overwhelmed? Itinerary just not coming together? Wonder if a few tweaks would take your trip to the next level? Book a Mini or Full consult with Cate! She’ll help you create or tweak your itinerary, recommend train tickets/passes, hotels, things to do, guided tours, show you how to buy train tickets, orient you to specific cities, help you plan out day trips, and answer your Germany travel questions.

ACCOMMODATIONS:  We recommend using  Booking.com  since they have widest range of accommodations available from hostels, boutique hotels, luxury chains, aparthotels, at the best prices. Check out our  accommodation guides  for specific recommended hotels.

WHAT TO PACK: If you’re bringing your phone, be sure to bring this plug adapter , this power bank , and this wrist strap . They’ve been lifesavers for us! You can see our other packing essentials here and here .

TICKETS & TOURS:  For guided tours, day trips, private tours, and skip-the-line tickets,  Get Your Guide  is our go-to!

TRAINS & BUSES:  To research train schedules and buy tickets or a Germany Rail Pass, we recommend the official  Deutsche Bahn (German Rail System)  website (and download their DB Navigator app). For buses, look at  FlixBus  , which offers tickets for routes within Germany and to other European countries. FlixBus is often cheaper than trains but can take longer.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 20 best things to do in Munich, Germany

A local’s list of the top tourist attractions, highlights, and things to do in munich..

Are you planning a trip to Bavaria’s capital? And now you are wondering about the best things to do in Munich? What to see and what to skip?

Well, then I got you covered. I have been living in Munich for the past 20 years and I love exploring my hometown. So, in this guide, I am going to show you the absolute must-sees and top tourist attractions . But I also mixed in some insider tips along the way so you get a memorable experience beyond the beaten tourist tracks, so you can plan your perfect Munich itinerary (<- click to read mine)

Munich has a history of more than 800 years and is now the third-largest city in Germany. It’s also the most affluent region of my country, which sadly means you’ll face higher prices than in Berlin or Cologne. But let that not deter you – there are plenty of bargains to be had and I’m going to reveal some of them to you in this travel guide.

You will probably need around 3-4 days to see it all. There are some beautiful day trip options from Munich , so you could basically stay a week or more. But I also prepared a one day Munich itinerary , for those in a hurry. Anyways, let’s get started with my favorite Munich highlights, shall we?

1. Marienplatz

Start your Munich tour at the heart of the city. The Marienplatz (Square of our Lady) with its imposing neo-gothic city hall (“ Neues Rathaus “) is one of the best photography spots in the city . Every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. the gigantic carillon comes to life. The Munich Glockenspiel is the largest in Germany and you’ll find the square particularly crowded around these times (for a reason).

You’ll find many traditional restaurants and shops around the Marienplatz, but it’s not exactly the place where locals hang out or enjoy their dinner (but you might enjoy the Rathaus Keller right below the city hall for lunch). As it is also the start of the Munich pedestrian area , you should definitely consider walking all the way up to Stachus, as there are a couple of beautiful churches along the way and many shops to get a nice souvenir.

The station underneath Marienplatz is also quite famous. I listed it among the 10 most beautiful subway stations in Munich . So, if you are a fan of modern architecture, don’t miss it. You can read more about Marienplatz here .

Note: You can actually climb the tower of the city hall for a small fee of 4.00 euros per person. You’ll get the best view, however, from the Alter Peter church tower (see below). It’s featured in my list of the 20 best photo locations in Munich .

2. Munich Residence Palace

The Münchner Residenz has been the seat of the Bavarian kings, prince-electors, and dukes for almost 400 years. From the Renaissance to Neoclassicism, you’ll find nearly every style and epoche represented in one of the 130 staterooms you can visit on the extended tour. The magnificent Antiquarium and the Ancestor Gallery are probably the most popular parts.

I do have to warn you, however, that the Residence Palace is a true maze and you’ll need around 4 hours to see it all. Mind you, that is time well spent, as each and every flight of stairs brings you to another amazing apartment, festival hall, church or throne room. It’s easy to visit the fantastic Nibelung halls on the ground floor, but if you see the sign, definitely go downstairs and they will blow your mind! Check out my list of the 15 best castles near Munich for further inspiration.

Note: Definitely make sure to visit the outstanding Treasury on the ground floor where you can see the Bavarian crown jewels and other outstanding artwork made from gold, silver, and diamonds. It’s not covered by the standard ticket, but worth to pay the extra 5 Euros. Find more information here .

3. Church of Our Lady

The Frauenkirche is the symbol of Munich and you’ll basically find the cathedral on every postcard and brochure in my hometown. And you are lucky, 2020 is the first year the towers are free of scaffolding (after nearly 10 years of restoration work). It’s still not possible to climb them, though.

The cathedral is not only the biggest but also one of the oldest in town. It was consecrated in 1494 and remained virtually unchanged ever since – at least from outside. During World War II the church was hit by a bomb and much of the interiors got destroyed. But the bigger loss occurred 90 years older. Back then and all over Europe, it was popular to purify the baroque churches and bring them back to a “virgin” (neo-)gothic state. What you see inside now is largely a reconstruction from the 1980ies (using historic original parts).

4. Alte Pinakothek

Did you know? Munich is one of the top art metropoles on this planet. You’ll find almost 100 museums in and around Bavaria’s capital . Not all of them are world-renowned, but you definitely need to the Alte Pinakothek in Munich’s art quarter ( Kunstareal ; find a list of the best museums in Munich here ). It is Munich’s oldest museum and home to an outstanding collection of German, Italian and Flemish old masters.

So, expect pictures by Albrecht Dürrer, Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, Rembrandt, Rubens, and other master painters. They usually have a spectacular special exhibition on the ground floor worth checking out. So, definitely look it up on the official website before you visit. You’ll also find the New Pinakothek next door, but it will be closed until at least 2022 (which is the reason it does not appear on this list).

Note: The entrance fee is only 1 euro on Sundays. Also, don’t forget the Alte Pinakothek is closed on Mondays.

5. BMW World & museum

Munich is not only famous for its beer, fairy tale castles, and leather trousers. You’ll also find the BMW headquarters in the north of the city . Why is this important? Well, as a tourist you can’t visit the famous cylindrical BWM towers, but you can visit the BWM world and museum right next to it.

The BMW Welt is an architectural masterpiece and actually one of the few free things to do in Munich. It’s, more or less, one big car saloon where you can few all the current (and some past) models, futuristic innovations, and racing cars. If you are a car lover, you shouldn’t miss it. The adjacent museum is not free, but equally amazing as it takes you through the whole history of the Bayerische Motorenwerke .

Note: There is a 3-star Michelin restaurant on the third floor of the BMW Welt called Esszimmer . The Museum is closed on Mondays, while the showrooms are open all week, except on Sundays (closes at noon). Also, be aware that the Olympic Park is right next to it.

6. Nymphenburg Palace

Wondering about my personal favorite place to visit in Munich? It’s the Nymphenburg Palace. T he summer residence of the Bavarian kings and prince-electors is just beautiful beyond words. You’ll find imposing staterooms and a gigantic hall with a beautiful ceiling fresco inside.

While beautiful, I love the park behind the palace even more. You’ll find a couple of smaller palaces scattered across the landscape and each of them is a true gem worth visiting. Pagodenburg, Amalienburg, and Badenburg (a bathing palace, can you believe it?) are what you need to see, but simply strolling around the English landscape park is a treat in and by itself.

There are three museums in the wings of Nymphenburg Palace that you might want to check out if you got some spare time. The carriage museum is probably the most impressive (sounds a bit dull, I know, but I promise you won’t regret it), but the Nymphenburg porcelain collection is just as beautiful. If you are traveling with kids, the Museum Mensch and Natur will be a special place.

Note: Don’t skip the adjacent Botanical Garden. Even in winter, the huge greenhouses will invite you to explore plants from all over the world. And it’s one of my favorite places to visit in autumn .

7. Bavarian National Museum

Bavaria has a long and spectacular history. The Wittelsbacher family ruled my home country for as long as people can remember. And over the centuries they amassed quite some wealth which all become the property of the Bavarian State after World War I. If you want to delve into the fascinating history of Bavaria, then you absolutely have to visit the Bavarian National Museum.

It’s far from a boring history museum with dusty cabinets, but more an arts & design collection. Ivory, porcelain, furniture and other outstanding artworks from the past 1,000 years are on display in lovely & modern exhibition halls. It’s actually my favorite museum in Munich, as it is so diverse.

Tip: Visit on Sundays, as the entrance fee is only 1 euro (except for the special exhibitions) and take some extra time as the museum is huge and there’s quite a lot to see. And don’t skip the amazing nativity scene collection in the cellar.

8. English Garden

Looking for a beautiful escape in the middle of the city? Then head straight to the Englische Garten right behind the Munich Residence Palace. This is the place where most locals will hang out in summer (so expect it to be quite crowded on weekends). For most, it’s a popular park to go for a walk, jogging, or playing sports.

Right in the middle of it, you’ll find the Chinese Tower ( Chinesische Turm ). The wooden pagoda is the center of a beautiful and lively beer garden where you can enjoy a traditional stein of beer and some authentic local food. On weekends, there is even live music (typically a bavarian brass band). As an alternative, you could also walk even further to the artificial lake Kleinhesselohe where you’ll find another beer garden. Here, you could even rent a pedal boat for a little romantic outing on the water. You can also book a ride in a horse-drawn carriage if you want to add a little romantic time to your visit in Munich

Note: The Englische Garten several kilometers long. No need to explore it all, but don’t limit yourself to the tiny Hofgarten right behind the palace. At least try to see the Monopteros temple, which is a particularly scenic viewpoint.

9. Pinakothek der Moderne

I already mentioned the Alte Pinakothek, but there is actually a fantastic museum for lovers of modern art as well. I personally love the building of the Pinakothek der Moderne, as it offers o many viewpoints and fantastic lines of sight. The collection is quite amazing as well. Gerhard Richter, Picasso, Salvador Dali, Joseph Beuys – there are notable artworks from all the famous artists of the 20th century on display.

In the basement, you will find a beautiful design collection . There’s not only Art Nouveau but also contemporary industrial design. So, you’ll find the first apple pc, game boys, and smartphones there, along with outstanding cars and modern furniture.

Tip: If you like contemporary art, then you should visit the Museum Brandhorst is right behind the museum.

10. Königsplatz

For most of its history, Munich wasn’t a large city. It only started to really grow at the beginning of the 19th century. But as the city gained prominence, there came a need for further representation and the Königsplatz ist the best example of this burgeoning importance. Here, King Ludwig of Bavaria had a neoclassical ensemble built to house two ancient greek museums.

It all looks a bit like a mixture of an ancient Egyptian temple and the Acropolis, which probably was the intended effect. Famous architect Leo von Klenze is responsible for the eclectic mix. Fans of classical greek sculptures will love the Glypthotek Museum on the right side, while lovers of ancient Greek pottery, bronze, and jewelry should definitely visit the Antikensammlung on the left side.

11. Hofbräuhaus

Hofbräuhaus – no other place is as deeply connected with the Bavarian beer culture than the most popular restaurant among tourists. You’ll find it in the heart of the Munich old town, with an endless mass of souvenir shops nearby. The place dates to 1589 when a new brewery was built to supply the court, but the current building was only finished in 1897.

I do have to warn you, however, that it is a place for tourists and it always was. Locals really don’t go there, because even in the 19th century it was already extremely popular among visitors . So, popular, they had to move the actual brewery on the outskirts (to Maxweberplatz) to make room for more tables. But then again, if you want to see a big Bavarian beer hall with live music and authentic food, it’s probably one of the best places to visit in Munich. The beer is actually quite good as well. The place is huge, so try to go a bit further to the back (or on the second floor) to escape the crowds.

Note: Hofbräuhaus is by far the only beer hall in the city center. Augustinerbräu or Schneider Bräuhaus are viable alternatives that are actually a bit more authentic.

12. Lenbachhaus

Munich became very popular among artists in the second half of the 19th century. So, popular, in fact, that a few artists were celebrated like pop stars . Franz von Lenbach was one of them. He was famous for his portraits among the aristocracy and heads of state, and made a fortune painting them. His oeuvre is basically a who-is-who of the late 19th century. He built himself a huge villa which is now home to a museum, and you can even tour his old apartment.

The majority of the museum is dedicated to the artist from the Blue Rider (Der Blaue Reiter). If you love Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc, August Macke, Gabriele Münter, Paul Klee, Marianne von Werefkin, then you won’t find a better place to enjoy their works on this planet. They also acquired some important installations by Joseph Beuys, so it’s really worth visiting. Here’s the official website .

13. Viktualienmarkt

There are many wonderful restaurants in the inner city, but if you want to sample authentic bavarian food it really doesn’t get any better than the Viktualienmarkt. You’ll find the gourmet farmers market right behind the central square, and it’s full of booths selling cheese, sausages, vegetables, and fruits. And the far back, there are also a couple of smaller street food stalls and juice bars.

Most importantly, there is a beer garden in the middle of it all. So, why is this important? According to the Bavarian beer garden law, you are allowed to bring your own food to your table. You only need to buy the trinks (if you can’t handle a stein full of beer, get a Radler , which is beer mixed with lemonade). I recommend you to browse the market, buy yourself some snacks, and then sit down and eat them while enjoying a cold blond bavarian beer (it’s self-service, so you have to go to the counter).

Interesting to note: The beer garden serves a different kind of beer each day on a rotating basis. There is a sign above the counter which tells you which brewery is being served on that particular day)

14. Theatinerkirche & Odeonsplatz

There is a third major square in Munich you cannot miss: Odeonsplatz. Most tourist guides will tell you the story about how the Feldherrnhalle is the place where Adolf Hitler failed in his first putsch . While we should never forget the grizzly parts of our past, I urge you to focus on the beautiful Theatiner church instead. To me, it’s the most beautiful church in Munich.

Why? Well, while all the other churches got either purged of their baroque splendor or are Bavarian fantasy kitsch, this one is pure elegance. The impressive stucco works inside are definitely baroque, but as the interiors are all white, it’s a sort of timeless beauty hard to escape.

Insider tip: Every Sunday morning they celebrate a Latin high mass accompanied by a classic church concerto and choir. Find out more here .

15. Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Munich is a beautiful city, but you should definitely consider doing at least one day trip. There are around 50 (I am not even joking!) beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites, landmarks, and national parks close-by, but most tourists will probably want to see Neuschwanstein Castle. This is the castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping beauty castle , and it is a true must-see.

It takes about 2 hours to get there by train , but you can also book a guided bus tour which I actually recommend. It is the only way you can ensure to get tickets to go inside, otherwise you have to try to book it via the official website at least 2 days in advance using a weird pdf form. Schloss Neuschwanstein is the last castle King Ludwig II built during his short lifetime, but certainly not the last. Linderhof palace or Herrenchiemsee are just as beautiful.

Note: Please be aware that the most beautiful viewpoint (i.e the Marienbrücke) might be closed in winter. There is another castle, Hohenschwangau Castle, right next to it, you could also visit!

16. Alter Peter

The Church of St. Peter is the oldest church in Munich and was probably founded around 1225 AD. You’ll find it about 50 meters away from Marienplatz. It’s a prime example of late bavarian baroque, and you’ll find a marvelous fresco on the ceiling and a beautiful high altar made, so it seems, from pure silver and gold.

The clock tower, called “old Pete” among locals, is one of the most spectacular things to see in Munich. The platform at the top is around 80 meters high and from here you can see the whole inner city . Whether it’s the neogothic city hall, the old city hall or the Church of our Lady – you can breathe it in from the lofty heights. And don’t be afraid – there is a cage around the platform, so even people suffering from vertigo will feel reasonably safe.

Note: There is no elevator and you have to climb all the way to the top. The tower in the city hall does have an elevator so it might be the better choice for physically impaired people.

17. Deutsche Museum

The Deutsche Museum (‘The German Museum’) is the most visited museum in Germany . You might picture cabinets full of dusty books and pictures, but it is in fact a technical museum. Astronomy, geology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, aviation – you’ll find a huge section for nearly every part of the technology that defines our modern life.

Most of the exhibitions are very interactive (with lots of buttons to press for kids), video installations, and even a planetarium at the very top. But it’s also one gigantic complex covering the biggest island on the river Isar in the city center. You probably need a full day to see it all. So, either bring a lot of time or focus on only two or three sections.

18. Friedensengel & Art Nouveau houses

Did you know that there are way over a hundred beautiful Art Nouveau houses in Munich ? Most Munich travel guides don’t even mention this fascinating part of my hometown, yet it’s certainly nothing you should miss. The famous Friedensengel marks the beginning of this movement, but certainly not its end. You can easily go on a fantastic free walking tour through either Bogenhausen (start at Prinzregentenplatz) or in Schwabingen (Ainmillerstrasse) and explore the many Art Nouveau city villas and mansions there.

The Müller’sche Volksbad is a prime example of the Jugendstil and you can actually still go swimming inside. If you got the time, you should definitely tour the historic rooms inside the Villa Stuck (actually a fantastic contemporary art museum) if you are a big fan of this period. The Bavarian National Museum also has a section dedicated to Art Nouveau, and so does the Pinakothek der Moderne.

19. Cuvilliés Theatre

Munich has a very active theater culture. The Bavarian State Opera actually counts among the top 10 opera houses in the world , so you should definitely consider seeing a performance (no worries, there are English subtitles). If you are reasonably fluent in German, you could also check out one of the twenty-odd theatres in Munich. My favorite is the Residenztheater.

Even if opera or theater is not your thing, you should definitely make time to tour the fantastic Cuvilliés Theatre inside the Munich Residence Palace. It’s not part of the standard tour and you need an extra ticket for it. But again, it’s so worth it. The rococo style theather is one of the very few surviving historic court theaters from this period , and one of Munich’s hidden gems.

20. Asamkirche

The last item on this list of places to see in Munich might just be the best: The tiny Asamkirche is barely 8 meters wide and 22 long. Walking past it in the pedestrian area, you might not even notice it as it is nestled in between two regular houses. The baroque masterpiece built by Cosmas Damian Asam and Qgid Quirin Asam, was originally meant as a private church. But after protests from the citizens, it was opened to the public.

The two brothers were famous for their frescos and stucco work, and they defined the Bavarian late baroque like no other artists. The Asamkirche counts among their most important and beautiful work . Every inch is covered with gold, silver, and (fake) marble.

[Bonus] Oktoberfest

If you are visiting Munich in the last weeks of September, you could attend the world-famous Oktoberfest. The biggest folk festival in the world started in October 1810, but the Bavarians soon moved it to September, as the weather is more favorable then. While there are certainly a lot of tourists, it’s particularly popular among locals. There are even special days for kids, so it really is a place for the whole family.

You should know, however, that is not the only festival in Munich . There are the winter and summer Tollwood and the Spring Festival (Frühlingsfest), and of course the famous Kocherlball. Why do I mention these? Hotel prices are insane during Oktoberfest – often three times the normal costs. Yes, it’s fun as hell, but you also have to pay for it.

Other things to do in Munich

I tried to limit this list to the highlights and top tourist attractions in Munich you simply have to see. But don’t believe for a second, that it’s all there is to see. In fact, I could easily add another 20 points of interest in Munich alone (like the amazing Bavaria Statue ) – and that does not account for all the beautiful day trips.

The Dachau Concentration camp instantly comes to mind ( read my guide here ) – quite the grizzly site, but one of such historic significance. There is also a Nazi Documentation Center museum in the middle of the city if that part of our darkest history interests you. You could even go on a Third Reich walking tour. Other wonderful museums you could visit are the Kunsthalle München, the Haus der Kunst, or the Egyptian Museum.

Then there are three other castles within the city limits : Alter Hof, Schleissheim Palace and Blutenburg you might want to check out. And of course, there are quite a lot of wonderful churches to check out. Fürstenfeld Abbey should be at the top of your list, but there are actually two stellar churches in the pedestrian area: St. Michael’s Church and the Bürgersaalkirche.

M unich also has a very lovely zoo , a safari park (Wildpark Poing), and a Sealife aquarium, if that is something you are interested in. Or you could watch a soccer match with FC Bayern München at the Allianz Arena. There are also quite a couple of walking tours available: Like Third Reich tour, or a medieval midnight tour. The sheer diversity is why I’d recommend visiting Munich and not Berlin if time is short.

Try to stay at least 3 days in Munich , so you got enough time to see the most important highlights ( check out different itinerary options here ). Do know, however, that München could easily occupy you for a month or more. Also, I heard some people being concerned about their safety. Munich is very safe . In fact, the safest city in Germany, so no need to worry.

Best time to visit Munich

The best time to visit Munich is probably September . Favorable weather and the Oktoberfest make it ideal for first-timers. Other than that, Munich will be beautiful all year round. There are beautiful Christmas markets in December, July and August are the best months to play your day trips, while January to March will often transform my hometown into a winter wonderland.

Summer, Oktoberfest, and December are usually the most crowded and most expensive times to visit , which is why I’d recommend you to come in June. You should know that Munich is also quite popular among German tourists, and you will want to arrive before the summer holidays start in July.

If you just want to visit the city itself, it basically does not matter when you visit. The weather only starts to be a relevant factor if you plan day trips to Regensburg, Salzburg, Bamberg, or Neuschwanstein Castle. As a rule of thumb, weekends are usually a lot busier (lots of local day tourists) than weekdays. Just try to avoid Mondays , as this is when most museums are closed.

Here’s a post where I break down the best time to visit Munich month by month .

So, this was my detailed guide to the best things to do in Munich. I hope I was able to give you a good overview. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments below

1 thought on “The 20 best things to do in Munich, Germany”

Great list. I’ve been before but learned plenty of new things from this post!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

* Checkbox GDPR is required

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Munich: The sightseeing highlights from Marienplatz to English Garden

Munich Guide: 20 Top Sights

Experience Munich's highlights on a sightseeing tour: Here is an overview of the top sights of the city - whether castles, museums, churches, parks or squares.

More actions

• Share on Facebook
• Share via WhatsApp

Sure, you should have seen the Frauenkirche and the Marienplatz as a visitor or new Munich resident. But Munich has much more to offer, and not only for fans of historic buildings.

We take you on a tour to the places that you should definitely see in Munich!

Nymphenburg Palace

Travel back in time to the age of the Bavarian monarchy: the extensive park with its pavilions, promenades along the palace canals, enormous fountains, magnificent flower gardens and, of course, impressive palace buildings is a source of fascination for Munich natives and tourists alike.

In addition to the rooms inside the castle, which were designed by the best sculptors, painters and plasterers of the time, you can visit several museums housed in the palace itself, including the Museum of Man and Nature and the Museum of Nymphenburg Porcelain.

Frauenkirche

Built in the 15th century, the gothic "Cathedral of Our Lady" or Frauenkirche in German, was and is an unmistakable symbol of the city. But not everyone knows that the Frauenkirche serves as the final resting place of Emperors and Kings and that the Devil himself is said to have visited the church.

The 500-year-old brick building is the seat of the Archbishop of Munich and Freising. Visitors can climb one of the cathedral's two 100-meter towers for spectacular views over the city.

Explore Munich the local way

Unforgettable city tours and sightseeing tours by Radius Tours Munich – your local guide

Marienplatz

The heartbeat of Munich: Marienplatz (St. Mary's Square), the world-famous center of the state capital, is home to the  New Town Hall . No matter the time of year, there's always something happening near the Mariensäule (Column of St. Mary) - whether it's people gathering to witness the  Glockenspiel  (carillion housed in the Town Hall), the Christmas market, championship celebrations for major sports teams or simply visitors from all over the world strolling through the city.

Marienplatz is situated in the very center of Munich, where the east-west axis between the  Isartor  and the  Karlstor  gates and the north-south axis between Schwabing and the  Sendlinger Tor  gate meet, making it an ideal starting point for sightseeing around the city.

Deutsches Museum

The largest museum of technology in the world: The German Museum of Masterpieces of Science and Technology, as it’s officially called, is both a traditional museum and a modern, hands-on facility. Visitors can get involved with demonstrations, experiments and media stations, where they can press buttons, flip levers and switches and touch many of the exhibits.

The 50 or so subjects covered by the museum are diverse, ranging from agriculture and food technology to astronomy, chemistry, photography and film, aeronautics and space technology, marine biology and physics to shipping, telecommunications and even clocks.

Munich museums

From art to natural history to technology, these museums are always worth a visit.

Platzl in the old town with the Hofbräuhaus

At the "Platzl" in the old town, you can get an idea of what Munich once looked like: magnificent town houses and cobblestones create a cozy ambience. The world-famous Hofbräuhaus, where Munich's beer tradition is lived, has been located here since 1608. The neo-Renaissance building is also an eye-catcher from the outside. 

Tierpark Hellabrunn

A journey around the world: Munich’s Tierpark Hellabrunn zoo was founded in 1911 and is the world’s first geological zoo. Since 1928, the animals have lived here according to continents - today partly in natural communities, as in nature.

The zoo puts on a number events at different times of year, offering fascinating insights into the natural habitats of the Isar conservation area. Animals roam free in large enclosures without fencing and cages, providing an optimal venue for learning about animals and environmental protection.

The Munich Residenz is the largest palace in any German city center. Stretching from Dienerstrasse to Max-Joseph-Platz, its imposing façade towers over all those who come to marvel at it.

Highlights of a tour around the Residenz of Bavaria’s erstwhile rules include its many apartments, ballrooms and chapels, featuring different styles ranging from Baroque to Rococo to neoclassical – a testament to the continuous expansion and rebuilding the palace has undergone during its more than 600-year history.

Also worth visiting are the palace treasury, the sumptuous Rococo Cuvilliés Theater and the magnificent Hofgarten (Royal Garden).

English Garden

Munich's green lung: With its 375 hectares, the English Garden is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. It is not only a popular recreation area in Munich and ideally suited for sports activities such as jogging, cycling or volleyball. A special highlight is the standing wave at the Eisbach - Eisbachwelle for short - not only for people who surf themselves, but also to watch.

A visit to the English Garden is also worthwhile because of the numerous sights such as the Monopteros, the Chinese Tower, the Japanese Tea House or the Rumfordschlössl. Throughout the year there are numerous events in the English Garden, such as the Kocherlball ( Munich’s largest folk dance event) or the Japanese Festival.

Karlsplatz (Stachus)

Karlsplatz, better known as Stachus, is formed by the Karlstor gate with a semicircle of rondell buildings on both sides and serves as the entryway to Munich’s largest pedestrian zone. The saying German “Da geht’s ja zu wie am Stachus” has spread beyond Munich throughout Bavaria as a way to describe a place where there’s lots going on.

These days, there’s still a lot going on at Stachus, day and night: Several S-bahn, U-bahn and tram lines run through here, with cars, buses, cyclists and pedestrians passing through by the thousands every day. Some simply use it to make their way through the old town, while others use it to access the pedestrian zone. It also serves as the starting point for Munich’s shopping district.

The Isar is the perfect place to relax in Munich: At almost 14 kilometers long, the river stretches from south to north in the city area. The numerous banks are perfect for relaxing and in certain areas also for barbecuing and swimming. Particularly popular are the Isarauen at the Flaucher and the extensive area around the Reichenbach Bridge. However, there are also less busy sections that are popular for cycling, jogging and walking. Boating is permitted in selected areas of the Isar during the warm season.

Viktualienmarkt

Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s largest market and a hub for the city’s foodies. Spread across 22,000 square meters, it features a huge range of fresh produce with much more than just fruit and vegetables: Bakers, butchers, fishmongers, delicatessens and flower stalls have turned Viktualienmarkt into a Munich landmark for more than 200 years.

The best thing: entry to the market is free. It also features food stalls and a comfy beer garden, complete with an authentic Bavarian Maibaum (Maypole).

Olympiapark

The Olympic Park is one of the most impressive and popular places in Munich. Created on the occasion of the 1972 Olympic Games, some of the most important buildings in the state capital are located here in a very small area: the Olympic Stadium and the Olympic Hall with the world-famous tent roof construction and the over 290-meter-high Olympic Tower with its viewing platform.

In addition, the 850,000 square meter park offers a varied range of leisure activities with concerts, spectacular events, festivals and a wide variety of sports.

Odeonsplatz

“La dolce vita” is truly on display at Odeonsplatz in Munich: The Italian-style square is complete with a Late Baroque-style church, a building designed in the style of the Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence and a great deal of hustle and bustle. It also serves as the northern boundary of the pedestrian zone and forms the starting point of Ludwigstrasse.

A number of landmarks are located within a stone’s throw of Odeonsplatz, including the  Residenz  palace with the  Hofgarten  (Royal Garden), the  Feldherrnhalle  (Field Marshalls’ Hall), the  Theatinerkirche  (Theatine Church), several palaces and the sweeping Bazargebäude (Bazaar Building). High-profile events are regularly held in the square, including the Stadtgründungsfest celebrating the city’s founding, the Streetlife Festival and the popular Klassik am Odeonsplatz open-air classical music festival.

Alter Peter

St. Peter's Church, located just behind Marienplatz, is the oldest parish church in Munich. Alter Peter (Old Peter), as it is lovingly known by the people of Munich, offers one of the best views over the city's rooftops. It also houses Munich's oldest bells and clocks.

The tower isn't the only feature worth visiting. The church's impressive Baroque high age and the relics housed in a glass case, specifically the skeleton of St. Munditia, are well worth a visit.

Allianz Arena

The Allianz Arena is the architecturally impressive football stadium of FC Bayern Munich. With a capacity of over 75,000 spectators, it is one of the largest stadiums in Germany. The white outer shell made of air cushions can be illuminated with LED lamps and shines in red during Bayern home games. Inside is the FC Bayern club museum with its numerous trophies and guided tours are offered on non-match days.

Munich Pinacotheca

Munich's Pinakothek museums are home to art from a wide variety of eras and styles. 

The Pinakothek der Moderne is one of Munich's biggest attractions and one of the best-known exhibition houses in the world. It combines four independent museums of art, graphics, architecture and design on more than 12,000 square meters.

As one of the most important painting galleries in the world, the Alte Pinakothek on Königsplatz shows European painting from the 14th to the 18th century. Well over 700 paintings are exhibited in 19 halls and 47 cabinets. Since 1836, art lovers have been wandering through the impressive rooms on two floors created by architect Leo von Klenze.

Visitors walk through the Neue Pinakothek like in a labyrinth with its exciting overview of the epochs of European art from the Enlightenment to the beginning of modernism, from Vincent Van Gogh's Sunflowers to Carl Spitzweg's Poor Poet. The Neue Pinakothek is closed for renovation until 2025.

Königsplatz

With its magnificent buildings, Königsplatz combines architecture from Greek antiquity with European classicism. The square, which was built at the beginning of the 19th century, attracts visitors with numerous impressive museums, such as the Glyptothek, the State Collection of Classical Antiquities or the Lenbachhaus with its works of modern painting.

In the summer months, numerous open-air events, concerts and festivals also take place here. A memorial commemorates the use of Königsplatz for Nazi propaganda events and book burnings by the National Socialists.

Oktoberfest

Munich Oktoberfest, called the "Wiesn" (meadow) by locals, is the world’s largest folk festival. First held in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of King Ludwig I and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen, the festival has now become one of the top highlights of the Munich calendar.

Around six million guests from all over the world flock to Munich every year to attend the two-week festival on the Theresienwiese. Opened on the 200th anniversary of Oktoberfest in 2010, the Oide Wiesn (Old Wiesn) is celebrated on a separate, adjacent site – the perfect place to experience a traditional Oktoberfest as it was once,

Bayerische Staatsoper

One of the world’s most celebrated opera houses, the Bayerische Staatsoper (Bavarian State Opera) in Munich is steeped in 350 years of history. Elector Ferdinand Maria had a theater built in the Herkulessaal (Hercules Hall) of the royal residence in the 17th century, where the first Italian opera performances were staged for courtiers.

After relocating to the newly-built National Theater on  Max-Joseph-Platz  in 1811, the Bavarian State Opera has now become Germany’s largest opera house, enjoying enormous success with more than half a million visitors per year and some 450 performances.

Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden not far from Nymphenburg Palace offers magnificent plants from all over the world all year round. There are over 19,000 species and subspecies to discover in the open-air area - from local useful plants and alpine flowers in the Alpinum to flora from the Far East and America that is unknown in this country.

The greenhouses cover an area of more than 5,000 square meters. Whatever the weather, cacti, palms, ferns and tropical plants in all colors and shapes can be admired here.

More sights in Munich

The most beautiful viewpoints in Munich

From city panorama to railway romanticism - these 7 views are unique.

Sightseeing in Munich

Our overview of Munich's most important places

One day in Munich

Sights for a short visit of 24 hours to Munich

Stories by Soumya

The Travel Blog of a Culture Addict

25 Best Places To Visit In Munich Germany + Interactive Map

Last Updated on September 3, 2024 by Soumya

Traveling to Munich and not sure what to do? Looking for a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Munich Germany? Keen to find out what are the best Munich attractions that you should not miss? You are in luck because we have the just the perfect guide for you!

Munich is an amazing city filled with food, art, culture, nature, and of course a ton of history. There are so many wonderful places to visit in Munich that you will find yourself running short of time.

Munich was the first stop on my 10-day Germany itinerary . Even though I was full of enthusiasm and stuffed multiple tourist places into my 2-day Munich itinerary , I barely scratched the surface.

The city’s beautiful architecture, resplendent palaces, magnificent churches , and an interesting history (that is outright bone-chilling at times) keep calling me back. Honestly, I can go back and spend a couple of weeks in the city and not be done with all of Munich’s beautiful places.

To make it a little less overwhelming for you, I have created this ultimate Munich travel guide. In this post, you will find everything you need to plan your trip to this historic city including a list of the best places to visit in Munich, best places to stay, amazing tours, and easy travel options.

If you would like to read more about Munich, here are some related posts.

• Easy-to-plan 2-day itinerary for Munich Germany
• 11 Magnificent churches of Munich that you need to see
• The ultimate guide to Marienplatz: Munich’s historic center

Table of Contents

25 Amazing places to visit in Munich

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link on this post. This will be at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help me keep this website up and running. Thanks for your support!

Marienplatz

Whether you are in Munich for one day or many, Marienplatz is the first place you should be stopping at. The historic center of Munich since 12th century, Marienplatz has been the venue of festivities, markets, and tournaments for nearly 1000 years now. Today, it is one the best sights to see in Munich.

Here you will find several important monuments such as the old and new town halls, a historic fish fountain, the Marian column which holds great religious importance, and the Glockenspiel – a mechanical clock that presents a free dance and joust show everyday.

There are several lovely restaurants and cafes in and around Marienplatz. It is the perfect place to start your day with pretzel, coffee, and a dip into German history.

I loved Marienplatz so much, I went ahead and wrote a dedicated guide for Marienplatz which I am sure you will love.

Neues Rathaus – New Town Hall

Location: Marienplatz

One of the most impressive places to visit in Munich is the New Town Hall or Neues Rathaus.

A very tall and long Gothic building, the New Town Hall was built between 1867 – 1909 when its old counterpart ran out of space. It is located right there on Marienplatz and is the most visible structure in the area. On its front wall, you will find the Glockenspiel.

The best part about Neues Rathaus is the observation deck at the top of the tower which provides some of the most beautiful views of central Munich . You will also be able to see the domes and steeples of iconic Munich churches – Peterskirche, Frauenkirche, and Theatinekirche.

What’s better is you don’t even need to climb steps to get there. Simply get on an elevator and you will be there in a jiffy! Check here for opening hours and admission .

Altes Rathaus – Old Town Hall

The old town hall (built in the 14th century) is just a minute away from the new one. After having undergone several changes in the 600 years of its existence, the Old Town Hall features designs from all kinds of architectural styles such as Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic.

You will find some interesting statues on the façade – of Ludwig of Bavaria and Henry, the Lion. Enter if you wish to check out a historic toy museum filled with models of trains and doll houses. Kids will love this place.

It is always fun to discover Munich’s historic sights like the Altes Rathaus on a guided tour. Here are some of my favorite ones.

• This 3-hour segway tour takes you to all popular Munich places and tourist attractions.
• Explore iconic and most beautiful Munich places of interest on this highlights of the old town tour .

St. Peter’s Church – Peterskirche

Location: Rindermarkt 1

Munich has some of the most beautiful churches in Europe. And one of my favorites is St. Peter’s Church right by the side of Marienplatz.

A 12th-century Roman Catholic church, Peterskirche is the oldest in Munich. It was rebuilt and renovated several times following the fire of 1368 and the Second World War which is why you will now see a Gothic structure complete with a Baroque high altar and some beautiful ceiling frescoes in the Rococo style.

St. Peter’s has a tall tower that you can climb up to get some stunning views of the city. Locals fondly refer to this 300ft tower as Alter Peter or Old Pete and it is one of Munich’s most remarkable landmarks.

Munich Cathedral – Frauenkirche

Location: Frauenplatz 12

Next up on our Munich bucket list of beautiful sights is another one of Munich’s beautiful churches known as Frauenkirche. This is the largest church in the city and also the Munich Cathedral.

If you have ever seen a picture of Munich with an orange-roofed Gothic church serenaded by two tall towers with green onion domes, then you must know I am talking of Frauenkirche.

Located only a stone’s throw away from Marienplatz, Frauenkirche is one of the most popular places to visit in Munich. And that is because it is home to the famous and intriguing Devil’s Footprint that you will find here. Other unmissable highlights include the Wittelsbach Monument and 20 chapels dedicated to various saints, apostles, and even merchant guilds.

Also read: 11 Beautiful churches of Munich that you need to visit

Medieval Town Gates

Did you know there were medieval gates in Munich? I had no idea when I first visited.

Apparently, Munich had 7 town gates in the medieval times, 3 of which still survive. They are called Karlstor, Isartor, and Sendlingertor. You can reach all of them within minutes of walking from Marienplatz. (Find directions in the interactive map below )

Viktualienmarkt

Location: Viktualienmarkt 3, 2-min walk from St. Peter’s Church

Fan of fresh, local produce or looking to pick some souvenirs? Stop by the Victuals Market (Viktualienmarkt) in Munich.

One of the best places to visit in Munich, the Viktualienmarkt is a treasure trove of everything German. Fruits, flowers, herbs, wine, sausages, and even garden dolls – you will find literally everything you want at the Victuals Market.

There are many good restaurants around if you are looking for a quick bite or an elaborate lunch. Two of my favorite places are Sababa and The Munich Soup Kitchen .

If you would like to explore the culinary delights of Viktualienmarkt on a guided tour, here are a couple of highly recommended ones.

• Immerse yourself in Bavarian delicacies and Victuals Market life on this 2-hour gourmet food tour .
• Sample the best Bavarian food and beer on this 3-hour evening tour .

Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall

Location: Platzl 9, 5-min walk from Marienplatz

Munich largest and most famous beer hall – Hofbrauhaus – is only a 5-min walk from Marienplatz. It was built in the late 16th century by a Bavarian Duke and hence, is more than 400 years old.

They serve different types of Hofbrau beers – Original, Dunkel, and Oktoberfestibier – and the Munchner Weisse. Plus, they have a full food authentic Bavarian menu if you are hungry. With an oompah band playing in the background and lederhosen-clad waiters milling around, the experience at Hofbrauhaus Beer Hall is as German as it gets.

That said, this place can get a little touristy and crowded during the day. But you know what they are open throughout the year – 9am – midnight!

Apart from being a quintessential beer hall, Hofbrauhaus also has a dark history that not many people will tell you about. In February 1920, Hitler presented the 25-point program in the Hofbrauhaus Festival Hall which eventually gave birth to the Nazi party. It was also here that Hitler first condemned the Jews and threatened to strip them of their rights.

Munich Residenz

Location: Residenstrasse 1, 2-mins from Odeonplatz

Visiting Munich Residenz was the highlight of my 2-day Munich itinerary . I had been so looking forward to check out this beautiful German palace and honestly, it went beyond all my expectations.

Munich Residenz was the official home of the Royal Wittelsbach family for 400 long years. It consists of 130 rooms, 10 courtyards, a church, and a theater. In short, the palace is huge and can take you an entire day to explore it all.

But if you are on a short trip like us, I suggest you check out The Hall of Antiquities (pictured here – it is even better than it seems in my photograph), The Treasury (for a glittery display of royal jewelry), and the Cuvilles Theater (where Mozart performed Idomeneo for the first time). You can even attend a gala concert at Cuvilles .

It is hard to believe that such a colossal palace complex exists in the center of a bustling city like Munich. But it is right there – only a 5-minute walk from Marienplatz.

Field Marshall’s Hall – Feldherrnhalle

Location: Odeonplatz

Feldherrnhalle or the Field Marshall’s Hall is a big hall on Odeonplatz with three prominent arches.

Doesn’t it remind you of the famous Loggia dei Lanzi beside Uffizi Gallery in Florence ? That is because Feldherrnhalle was inspired (and was in fact a copy of) by Loggia dei Lanzi. Built between 1841 – 1844 on the orders of King Ludwig I who was an avid admirer of Italian art and architecture, it is not difficult to guess why!

Feldherrnhalle is a unique Munich landmark that features sculptures of brave Bavarian commanders and two bronze lions. However, what makes it different is its connection with Germany’s Nazi past.

It was here in Feldherrnhalle that Hitler’s coup attempt in November 1923 was foiled. When Hitler eventually came to power, the Field Marshall’s Hall became a Nazi party icon. People who wanted to pass in front of it had to perform the Nazi salute.

Today, the hall is a great place to relax and people-watch after a long day of sightseeing Munich’s best places. Yet, it hides some of the worst nightmares of European history!

Are you a WW2 history buff? You are going to love these Third Reich guided tours in Munich.

Theatine Church – Theatinekirche

Right next to Feldherrnhalle is an impressive, yellow-colored Catholic church called the Theatinekirche.

Built in the High Baroque style and inspired by a minor basilica in Rome, Theatine Church is a head-turner and almost tops my list of the best places to visit in Munich. Its Rococo façade and two tall towers bordering it are the most remarkable. The bright yellow color adds an extra Mediterranean flair to the monument.

If you ever feel depressed by the dull brown color and WW II stories of Feldherrnhalle, just hop into Theatinekirche on your right. It will definitely bring a smile to your lips.

Alte Pinakothek Museum

Location: Barer Strasse 27

One of the largest art galleries in the world, Alte Pinakothek or Old Pinakothek boasts of a fine collection of paintings by European masters, all dated between 14th – 18th century.

The museum was founded by Ludwig I of Bavaria in 1836 and the private collection of the Wittelsbach monarchs formed the core of Alte Pinakothek. Some of the most unmissable paintings at the museum include self portraits by Rembrandt and Albrecht Durer, & Virgin and Child by Leonardo da Vinci.

Alte Pinakothek suffered considerable damage during WW2 and wasn’t restored until 1957. Luckily, however, much of its collection had been removed and stacked away in safety as early as 1939. Thanks to this foresightedness of the museum authorities, we are still able to enjoy such amazing art from the medieval times.

Pinakothek der Modern

Location: Barer Strasse 40, 3-min away from Alte Pinakothek

Are you a fan of modern art? Then Munich has the perfect place for you to visit – its vast contemporary art museum – Pinakothek der Modern.

Opened to the public in 2002, the museum building itself is impressive with large windows and high rise columns. Each corner of the building houses a different collection – art, design, works on paper, and architecture.

Asam Church – Asamkirche

Location: Sendlinger St. 32

Asamkirche is, by far, the prettiest church I have seen in Munich. Even though the façade is nothing remarkable, the inside of the church is gorgeous. Do not miss the ceiling fresco that depicts the life of Saint John Nepomuk. It is an absolute masterpiece.

The Asam Church was built by Asam brothers in early 18th century. It was meant to be a private chapel for the brothers (a painter and a sculptor who painted several other churches in Munich ) but was later opened to the public.

Ruhmeshalle with Bavaria Statue

Location: Theresienhöhe 16

One of the most iconic attractions of Munich, but not a very popular one, is the ensemble of Bavaria and Ruhmeshalle located near Theresienwiese, the venue of the famous beer festival Oktoberfest.

The ensemble includes a colossal bronze statue of Bavaria, the patroness of Bavarian state, and a Hall of Fame (Ruhmeshalle) commissioned by King Ludwig I. Ruhmeshalle is dedicated to the great men of Bavaria and is filled with marble busts of famous Bavarians including the artist Albrecht Durer.

If you love visiting halls of fame, check out Walhalla near Regensburg Germany . That is another iconic one.

English Garden

Englischer Garten or English Garden is a huge public park located in northeast Munich. It rivals New York’s Central Park and London’s Hyde Park in size – in fact I have heard it is bigger than the two of them.

There’s lots of interesting things to do at Englischer Garten including biergarten hopping. There are 4 beer gardens inside the park and The Seehaus at Kleinhesseloher See is the most famous.

Apart from running, jumping, and picnicking in the open green spaces of English Garden, be sure to check out some interesting monuments such as the Japanese Tea House, a Chinese Tower, and the Monopteros, a round Greek temple.

Olympiapark or Olympic Park of Munich

Location: Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21

Munich’s Olympiapark was built to host the 1972 Olympic games. Now the huge recreational park serves as a destination for sports and cultural events.

Of special interest is the tent-like roof that is an architectural delight. Today, you can participate in a roof climb activity and combine that with abseiling or flying fox experiences. Find more exciting activities and guided tours at Olympiapark here .

Sea Life Munich

Location: Olympiapark

Discover life under water at Sea Life Munich, a large aquarium that is home to more than 4500 animals in 33 displays.

They have the largest variety of sharks in Germany and a brand new tropical island. Visitors love their fish feeding time and the touch pool where you can actually feel a sea anemone in your hands. If you are visiting Munich with kids, Sea Life is the perfect place to be.

Be sure to book your Sea Life skip-the-line day ticket online to avoid queues.

BMW Welt & Museum

Automobile fans will love checking out vehicle exhibitions at BMW Welt and Museum located right next to Munich’s Olympiapark. Even the building’s futuristic architecture is ever so appealing.

You can choose to visit the exhibitions in BMW Welt, take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the company, or experience behind the scenes at the BMW Plant. Click here to learn more about their guided tours.

Deutches Museum

Location: Museumsinsel 1

Munich is the city of museums and one of the most amazing ones is the Deutsches Museum located not very far away from the historic center of Marienplatz .

It is a huge science museum (one of the largest in the world) with 35 different sections focusing on everything that you can think of. There are sections on astronomy, ceramics, computers, glass-blowing, technical toys, and what not! There’s also a kid’s section as well as a planetarium for some fun family time in Munich.

If you are science and technology geek or have a family/group full of them, plan to spend at least half-a-day at the Deutsches Museum in Munich. We were there for a couple of hours and honestly, I don’t think we saw anything at all. There was just so much to explore.

Find more information on exhibits, hours, and admission visit the official website of Deutsches Museum here .

Bavarian National Museum

Location: Prinzregentenstraße 3

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Munich, Bavarian National Museum is home to a rich collection of European art spanning over 2000 years.

Paintings, sculptures, porcelain, furniture, carvings, and musical instruments – get read to get a comprehensive tour of European art and culture here. Check here for opening hours and tickets .

NS-Documentation Center in Munich

Location: Konigsplatz

Keen to learn more about the history of National Socialism, a force that changed the face of the world? Head to Munich Documentation Center on Konigsplatz.

Built on the site of the former headquarters of the Nazi Party, the Documentation Center gives you a deeper look into the history of NSDAP and the role of Munich as its birthplace.

The permanent exhibition “Munich and National Socialism”, aided by photographs, documents, and media, is insightful and thought-provoking. Various temporary exhibitions touching upon different aspects of the Nazi regime are held throughout the year. Refer to the Documentation Center website for exhibition details and hours.

If you are a history geek and planning to visit the most iconic WW2 sites in Germany, Munich Documentation Center is a good place to start.

Beer and Oktoberfest Museum

Location: Sternecker Strasse 2

Are you in Munich not just to drink all that beer but also to learn a little about the story of beer and trace its origins?

Beer and Oktoberfest Museum in Munich is the best place to go to. Located on Sternecker Strasse 2, it is just a 5 minutes walk from Marienplatz.

Nymphenburg Palace & Gardens

Location: Nymphenburg

Schloss Nymphenburg is one of the prettiest German palaces I have been to. Resplendent palace rooms, a carefully-manicured garden as huge as the one at Versailles, and several museums on site make Nymphenburg Palace one of the most attractive places to visit in Munich.

It is located in the western fringes of Munich city and makes for a great half-day trip from Munich. If you are short on time, be sure to check out the Stone Hall and the Beauty Gallery of King Ludwig I. Do not miss walking through the gardens and checking out those pretty tea houses, bathing places (Badenburg is so cute), and hunting lodges (check out the Rococo-styled Amalienburg).

Find opening hours and admission on the official website here .

Also read: 18 Stunning palaces and castles to visit in Germany

Schleissheim Palace Complex

Location: Oberschleissheim

Another great place to visit in Munich that I, unfortunately could not explore on my last Germany trip , is Schloss Schleissheim. Located in a suburb near Munich, this is another pretty Bavarian palace and a stunning example of Baroque architecture.

Take a tour of the new and old palaces and wander through the Court Garden for a true feeling of royalty. Here is an amazing virtual tour of the palace that is enough to feed your wanderlust and make you want to pack your bags right now.

Check here for opening hours, admission, and photography restrictions.

Interactive map of best places to visit in Munich

Practical information for visiting Munich

Best time to visit munich.

The best time to visit Munich is undoubtedly in spring and summer when the weather is pleasant. It is also the time Bavaria harvest its crop of white asparagus, also known as white gold. So, be ready to find it on menus everywhere and honestly, it is one of my favorite things to eat in Bavaria.

We visited in May and it was fun walking around during the day. At night, it often got a little chilly. So, I would advise carrying a jacket.

September – October is a great time if you are planning to attend Munich uber-famous Oktoberfest. And December is good (but cold) if you are a fan of German Christmas markets.

Remember that Munich gets super crowded during Oktoberfest as well as in summers. So, be sure to make your hotel reservations well in advance.

Best places to stay in Munich

The best place to stay in Munich Old Town because that will ensure you are close to most Munich attractions. Plus, you won’t be spending a lot of time traveling between places.

Here are some great places to stay in Munich Old Town or close-by for all budgets.

• Hotel Eder : A cute, little, family-run place, Hotel Eder boasts of clean rooms, helpful staff, and a traditional German breakfast. They tend to fill up fast. So make sure you reserve your stay super soon .
• Hotel ADRIA München: This is a great 3-star option with tasteful décor is not very close to Marienplatz but walkable (15minutes). Its bright red façade makes it one of the prettiest buildings on the street. Spacious rooms and friendly staff make it one of the best places to stay in Munich. Book your stay at Hotel ADRIA München here.
• Hotel Torbrau: A historic, 4-star hotel in Old Town Munich, Hotel Torbrau is a cozy and friendly place to stay. You need to walk only 5 minutes to get to Marienplatz. Get a room at Hotel Torbrau here.

However, please keep in mind that staying in the city center is definitely going to cost more than elsewhere. So, if time and commute isn’t a constraint, please feel free to find more hotels in Munich here.

Getting to Munich

Franz Josef Strauss International Airport/Munich Airport is the closest airport to Munich city.

From Munich Airport, it is easy to get to the city center by train, bus, or taxi. Hop into an S-Bahn (S1/S8) to get to your destination. Or board the Lufthansa Express bus that is equipped with Wifi and newspapers.

If you are looking for a private transfer to or from the airport, then this one has great reviews.

Getting around Munich

You will notice that there are lots of amazing places to visit in and around Marienplatz in Munich . The best part is that you can easily walk to each and everyone of them. Frankly, if I am there in Munich for just one day, I would spend the entire day exploring Marienplatz and nearby, entirely on foot!

Munich’s hop-on hop-off bus tour is also a popular way of seeing the best of the city without having to walk. It is available in 1-day and 2-day versions.

On other days, when you need to travel to other Munich attractions such as the palaces of Nymphenburg and Schleissheim, Olympiapark and Sea Life, or the English Garden, I highly recommend using Munich’s public transport (goes by the acronym MVV).

The city has an efficient network of S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams, and buses that make travel extremely convenient. We always got a MVV day ticket when we were planning ride the public transport multiple times in a day. Helped save some precious Euros!

Use MVV Journey Planner or the MVV App to plan all your local commutes. If you are looking for city cards and passes, check out the section on travel essentials below.

Munich travel FAQ

What should you not miss in munich.

When in Munich, do not miss the history and architecture at Marienplatz, the open green spaces of Englischer Garten, the mindblowing frescoes and Rococo designs of Munich’s churches , and of course a mug of beer at the beer gardens.

What area of Munich is best to stay?

The best area to stay in Munich is the old town, or Altstadt-Lehel in the local language. Many of Munich’s best attractions are clustered around Altstadt-Lehel, which makes traveling between places super convenient.

Is Munich worth visiting?

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is absolutely worth visiting for its history (both medieval and WW2), stunning churches such as the Frauenkirche and Asamkirche, Bavarian food, and beer. Munich also makes a great springboard for day trips to other beautiful places in Bavaria, such as Neuschwanstein , Regensburg , and Berchtesgaden .

Is Munich a walkable city?

Munich’s Old Town is very walkable. If you are only visiting the monuments in and around Marienplatz (which is quite huge in itself), then you can do everything on foot. If you wish to venture a little from the center, I suggest using Munich’s efficient public transport.

Munich Germany Travel Essentials

• Use  Get Your Guide  to find great deals and discounts on tours, attractions, and more across the city. I highly recommend it and use it all the time.
• Public transport system in Munich is called MVV. If you are looking for inexpensive public transport within Munich and surrounding MVV districts, I highly recommend getting a single or group day ticket on MVV.
• If you plan to do one or more day trips from Munich, use a Bayern Ticket. Read my complete Bayern Ticket guide to figure out the how, why, and where.
• Find the  best hotels in Munich Germany here .
• Get a  CityTourCard for Munich  if you wish to see a lot when you are here. It offers you free public transport and discounts on several attractions.
• I prefer to get a Turbopass for Munich because that covers a lot more of what I want to see in the city.

Loved the 25 best places to visit in Munich? Pin it for later!

You may also like:

• DB Bayern Ticket: How To Travel Cheap Within Bavaria…
• My Trip To Germany In Pictures: My German Photo Gallery
• 11 Most Beautiful Churches In Munich That You Need To Visit

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Post Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Begin typing your search term above and press enter to search. Press ESC to cancel.