5 Day Trips from Munich: Exploring Bavaria and Beyond

Munich is not only a vibrant city teeming with cultural and historical treasures but also a fantastic base for exploring some of the most stunning locations in Germany and its neighboring regions. From picturesque alpine villages to fairy-tale castles and historic towns, here's a list of the best day trips you can take from Munich.

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle, often dubbed the "fairy-tale castle," is one of the most iconic sights in Germany. Located near the town of Füssen, about a two-hour train ride from Munich, this 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace is perched on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau. Built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein's dreamy towers and picturesque setting inspired Walt Disney's Cinderella Castle.

Neuschwanstein Castle can only be visited with a guided tour. Tickets are limited and will sell out, so it is recommended to buy your tickets in advance. You can get your tickets in advance on their official ticketing site. Same-day tickets are available on-site, but they tend to sell out fast so you might want to plan to reach early.

Alternatively, you can also book guided tours via OTA sites like Tiqets, GetYourGuide, Viator, or Klook.

2. Salzburg

Just across the Austrian border, Salzburg is a city that enchants with its baroque architecture, rich musical heritage, and stunning alpine backdrop. Known as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for "The Sound of Music," Salzburg offers visitors a chance to explore its charming old town, the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress, and the beautiful Mirabell Gardens.

You can also drop by the Red Bull Hangar-7 at Salzburg airport to view their exhibits related to some of the extreme sports they have sponsored, including their historical Flying Buls aircraft feet and collection of F1 cars.

It is easy getting to Salzburg yourself - there are direct trains from Munich to Salzburg with the journey taking around 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, there are also many day tours to Salzburg that depart from Munich.

3. Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

A visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, located about 16 kilometers northwest of Munich, is a powerful and sobering experience. As the first of the Nazi concentration camps opened in Germany, Dachau serves as a memorial to the atrocities of the Holocaust. Visitors can tour the preserved and reconstructed camp facilities, the museum, and the memorial sites.

The site is open daily from 9am to 5pm, but is closed on 24th December every year. Entrance to the memorial site is free.

4. Berchtesgaden

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Berchtesgaden is a picturesque town offering stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal day trip from Munich. Just a two-hour drive or train ride away, Berchtesgaden promises an unforgettable experience with its pristine landscapes, fascinating history, and charming Bavarian culture.

If you are planning to visit Berchtesgaden, then you probably want to include a visit to the historic Eagle’s Nest. Eagle’s Nest once served as a private meeting place for members of the Nazi Party, but this mountain-top retreat is now one of the most scenic beer gardens in Germany.

It is important to note that Eagle’s Nest is only open for visitors from May to October, so you should plan your trip accordingly!

5. Zugspitze

For those craving outdoor adventure, a trip to Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, is a must. Located on the border between Germany and Austria, the peak offers breathtaking views and a variety of activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The summit can be reached by cable car or cogwheel train.

There’s a cafe at the peak where you can enjoy a good meal and beer with stunning views. Or you could also head to the Zugspitze glacier valley, where you can explore Germany’s highest church and the igloo hotel.

It is possible to get to Zugspitze from Munich via public transport, but you might need a bit of planning around the train timetables. Consider taking the earlier trains for combo deals and some cost savings!