Discover the Best Day Trips from Munich
Munich, the heart of Bavaria, is surrounded by stunning palaces, quaint villages, and breathtaking natural landscapes, all within reach by car, public transport, or guided tours. From the majestic Bavarian Alps to the historic streets of Nuremberg, there's an abundance of sights to explore.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle, the real-life inspiration for Disney's iconic castles, is a 19th-century neo-Romanesque marvel built by King Ludwig II. Its fairy-tale exterior is matched by opulent interiors themed around opera and literature. Combine your visit with a trip to Linderhof Palace and the village of Oberammergau for a full day of royal Bavarian splendor.
Address: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, Schwangau
Official site: www.neuschwanstein.de
2. Linderhof Palace
Linderhof Palace, nestled in the Bavarian woods near the Austrian border, was King Ludwig II's cherished retreat. This Rococo masterpiece boasts ornate interiors, including the Hall of Mirrors and the Eastern and Western Tapestry Chambers. The surrounding park features the Moorish Pavilion and the Venus Grotto, a man-made wonder.
Address: Linderhof 12, 82488 Ettal
Official site: www.schlosslinderhof.de
3. Herrenchiemsee Palace
On Herreninsel in Chiemsee, Herrenchiemsee Palace stands as King Ludwig II's unfinished homage to Versailles. The palace's State Staircase, State Bedroom, and Great Hall of Mirrors are highlights, along with the King Ludwig II Museum. The gardens feature sculptures and fountains reminiscent of Versailles.
Address: 83209 Herrenchiemsee
Official site: www.herren-chiemsee.de
4. Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
The Dachau Memorial Site, a somber reminder of Nazi atrocities, offers a museum and reconstructed barracks. Guided tours in English provide historical context to the suffering endured here.
Address: Pater-Roth-Str. 2a, D-85221 Dachau
Official site: www.kz-gedenkstaette-dachau.de
5. Nuremberg (Nürnberg)
Nuremberg's medieval walls and castle overlook a city rich in history and culture. Explore Gothic churches, the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, and the city's vibrant arts scene.
6. Berchtesgaden and Eagle's Nest
Berchtesgaden, a picturesque town in the Bavarian Alps, is home to the Eagle's Nest, Hitler's mountain retreat. The area offers stunning views and historical insights.
7. Romantic Road and Rothenburg
The Romantic Road leads to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a well-preserved medieval town with charming architecture and a rich history.
Official site: www.romanticroadgermany.com
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Rothenburg
8. Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, the picturesque birthplace of Mozart, is known for its Baroque architecture and musical heritage, including "The Sound of Music."
9. Passau and the Danube
Passau, where the Danube meets the Inn, boasts the Cathedral of St. Stephen with one of the world's largest organs and a picturesque old town.
10. Garmisch-Partenkirchen and Zugspitze
Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak, offers panoramic views and is accessible by cable car or cogwheel train. Nearby, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is known for its painted houses and Ettal Monastery.
11. Murnau am Staffelsee
Murnau am Staffelsee, a haven for art and nature lovers, was home to the expressionist Blue Rider group and offers trails through the Murnauer Moos marshlands.
12. The Schleissheim Palace Complex
Just outside Munich, the Schleissheim Palace Complex features Baroque architecture, ornate interiors, and a historic park with fountains and canals.
Address: 85764 Oberschleißheim
Official site: www.schloesser-schleissheim.de
13. The Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Korbinian
In Freising, the Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Korbinian features Romanesque architecture and a crypt with a unique animal column.
Address: Domberg 27, Freising
14. The Old Town of Ingolstadt
Ingolstadt's Old Town is encircled by medieval fortifications and features Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including the Herzogsschloss and the Kreuztor.
Address: Rathausplatz 2, 85049 Ingolstadt
15. Oberstdorf
Oberstdorf, a mountain resort town, offers stunning alpine scenery, hiking trails, and attractions like the Breitachklamm gorge and the Nebelhorn peak.
16. Innsbruck and Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Innsbruck, Austria, charms with its Old Town and Alpine backdrop, while nearby Swarovski Crystal Worlds dazzles with artistic crystal installations.
Address: Kristallweltenstrasse 1, Wattens
Official site: https://kristallwelten.swarovski.com