Day Trips From Munich By Train: Things to See in Bavaria
Now Go See It is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Discover the best day trips from Munich by train! Explore fairy-tale castles, charming towns, alpine landscapes, and cultural gems—all within easy reach.
Best Munich Day Trips: (Jump To)
Germany is connected seamlessly by train. It’s astonishingly easy to visit almost anywhere in the country by train. By basing yourself in Munich you can explore the region easily. This list of day trips from Munich by train could fill a few Munich itineraries. Our advice is to select the Munich day trips that most appeal to you and add them to your Munich travel plans. We have some useful tools for your time in Germany.
Other useful information:
Neuschwanstein Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 2 hours by train (to Füssen, then a bus to the castle).
Highlights: Fairy-tale castles built by Bavarian Kings and stunning views.
Read More: Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle is like stepping into the pages of a fairy tale. Perched atop a hill in the Bavarian Alps, this iconic castle offers not only breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes but also a glimpse into the extravagant imagination of King Ludwig II. As you approach, the castle's stunning architecture, characterized by its towers and turrets, leaves an indelible impression.
Inside the castle is adorned with intricate frescoes, ornate furnishings, and intricate woodcarvings, each room tells a story of King Ludwig's admiration for the legendary tales of knights and damsels.
After exploring Neuschwanstein you can visit Hohenschwangau Castle, built by King Maximilian II in the 19th century. The castle comes alive on a tour where knowledgeable guides tell tales of the kings, queens, and princes who lived within the castle walls.
The fairy-tale allure of Neuschwanstein Castle is a perfect reason to take this wonderful day trip from Munich by Train.
Day Trip to Salzburg From Munich
Distance: About 1.5 to 2 hours by train.
Highlights: Birthplace of Mozart, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and Mirabell Gardens. Famous for The Sound of Music.
Read More: Salzburg from Munich
Salzburg, Austria is set against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps along the banks of the Salzach River. The amount of attractions in the city is perfect for a day trip from Munich by train.
At the heart of the city lies the magnificent Altstadt (Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved baroque architecture and medieval streets. Wander through the cobblestone alleys, shopping in stores marked by historic iron signs. Visit the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress looming high above the city. Step into the Salzburg Cathedral with its awe-inspiring dome and historic architecture.
For music enthusiasts, Salzburg is synonymous with Mozart, the city's most famous son. Explore Mozart's Birthplace, a museum dedicated to his life and legacy, or attend a concert at the Mozarteum.
Whether you're strolling along the Salzach River, admiring the baroque splendor of Mirabell Palace and Gardens, or going all in as a tourist with a Sound of Music sing-along bus tour, Salzburg will be a delight.
ad:
Nuremberg Day Trip From Munich
Distance: About 1 hour by train.
Highlights: Medieval architecture, Nuremberg Castle, historic Old Town, and the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds.
Nuremberg, located in the heart of Bavaria, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, rich heritage, and vibrant cultural scene.
The city’s old town is filled with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and churches. Explore the iconic Nuremberg Castle, a symbol of the city's medieval splendor, and wander through the Handwerkerhof, a historic artisan district with small shops featuring traditional crafts.
Nuremberg's past is deeply intertwined with some of the most significant events in European history. Learn about the city's role during the Holy Roman Empire at Nuremberg Castle and delve into its complex legacy during the Nazi era at the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, a thought-provoking museum housed in the former Congress Hall.
Discover the city's art scene at the Kunstareal Nürnberg, a cluster of museums and galleries showcasing everything from contemporary art to classical masterpieces.
Food enthusiasts visiting Nuremberg can sample local specialties like Nürnberger Rostbratwurst, a delicious grilled sausage, and Lebkuchen, a traditional gingerbread cookie. Your taste buds will thank you for visiting the Hauptmarkt, Nuremberg's historic market square.
Visiting Nuremberg on a day trip by train from Munich is a great way to expand your knowledge of the Bavarian way of life.
Regensburg Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 1.5 hours by train.
Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage city with medieval architecture, Regensburg Cathedral, and the Stone Bridge.
Regensburg sits along the banks of the Danube River. The city is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval old town, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When you enter the city’s old town you will be greeted by the towering spires of the Regensburg Cathedral. Beautiful and picturesque Patrician houses line the streets. Another highlight is the Old Stone Bridge, a marvel of medieval engineering that spans the Danube and offers panoramic views of the city.
Explore the remnants of the Roman Empire at the Porta Praetoria, an ancient gate that once formed part of the city's defensive walls. Learn more about the medieval past at the Thurn und Taxis Palace, a royal residence that offers tours of the lavishly decorated staterooms.
Regensburg is a lesser-known city in Germany that offers a more authentic experience while visiting on a day trip from Munich by train.
Zugspitze Day Trip From Munich
Distance: About 2 hours by train (to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then a cogwheel train and cable car).
Highlights: Germany's highest peak with skiing, hiking, and breathtaking views.
Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak, offers a breathtaking mountain experience with unparalleled views. Located in the Bavarian Alps near the town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Zugspitze is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Reaching the summit of Zugspitze is an adventure in itself. You can visit the peak via a scenic cogwheel train or a modern cable car, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once at the top, on a clear day, views stretch as far as the eye can see.
During the winter months, the mountain becomes a destination for skiers and snowboarders, with a variety of slopes catering to all skill levels. In the summer, the area is a hiking paradise, with countless trails through meadows, forests, and across rocky terrain.
A visit to Zugspitze as a day trip by train from Munich is not just a journey to the highest peak in Germany—it's an opportunity to connect with nature.
Day Trip From Munich to Dachau
Distance: About 30 minutes by train.
Highlights: Memorial site with a museum and preserved camp buildings, serving as a powerful reminder of the Holocaust.
The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is located just outside the city of Munich. Dachau was the first Nazi concentration camp, serving as a prototype for the network of death and labor camps that would follow.
Visiting the memorial site offers a sobering and emotional experience, as visitors confront the atrocities committed within its walls during the Holocaust. The site includes preserved barracks, watchtowers, and the infamous Arbeit Macht Frei ("Work Sets You Free") gate, serving as a reminder of the suffering endured by the prisoners who were imprisoned here.
The memorial site also features a museum and exhibition center, which provide a comprehensive overview of the camp's history, the lives of its inmates, and the broader context of the Holocaust. Through photographs, artifacts, and personal testimonies, visitors gain insight into the brutality and inhumanity of the Nazi regime.
A visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is not easy, nor is it meant to be. It is a somber and solemn experience that serves as a reminder of the horrors of the past. Visiting the site as a day trip from Munich by train is essential for those wishing to learn and witness the history of Germany.
Day Trip From Munich to Rothenburg
Distance: About 2.5 to 3 hours by train.
Highlights: Medieval town with preserved walls, half-timbered houses, Market Square, and Plönlein corner.
Read More: Germany’s Romantic Road: Day Trip Munich To Rothenburg
Rothenburg is a well-preserved medieval town along Germany’s famed Romantic Road. The town’s medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and romantic ambiance beg to be photographed.
Visiting the city’s historic center involves crossing under the preserved historic town walls. Once inside numerous historic buildings surround the Marktplatz (Market Square), a hub of activity where locals and visitors alike gather to shop, dine, and socialize. The city’s most important buildings are nearby including the Town Hall, with its impressive Renaissance facade, and St. Jakob's Church, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
Visiting Rothenburg from Munich is a great way to explore some of the romantic road while visiting one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 1.5 hours by train.
Highlights: Alpine resort town with mountain scenery, hiking trails, and the Partnach Gorge.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a charming Alps resort town formed by the merger of two historic villages for the 1936 Winter Olympics. Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventures like hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and paragliding. In the winter months, you will find world-class skiing and snowboarding slopes, cross-country skiing trails, and snow-filled winter hikes.
Explore the nearby Partnach Gorge for waterfalls or take a hike through the meadows and forests of Eibsee Lake.
If you're seeking adventure in Germany’s outdoors, A day trip from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen is an excellent way to see more of the beautiful German countryside under the picturesque Alps.
We recommend the GoCity Pass to save loads of money on attractions.: Check it out by clicking this affiliate link: GoCity
Lake Chiemsee Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 1 hour by train.
Highlights: Bavaria’s largest lake with Herrenchiemsee New Palace, boat trips, cycling, and scenic beauty.
Lake Chiemsee, often referred to as the Bavarian Sea is the largest lake in Bavaria. It is a popular destination for recreational activities. In the summer months, the lake offers opportunities for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. A popular thing to do is to board a traditional Bavarian boat, known as a "Chiemsee Schifffahrt," and cruise to the nearby islands of Herrenchiemsee and Frauenchiemsee, each with its own unique charm and attractions.
For those seeking a beach experience, the shores of Lake Chiemsee are dotted with idyllic beaches and waterfront promenades, perfect for picnicking, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning alpine scenery. With over 100 kilometers of hiking and cycling trails surrounding the lake, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region.
If you're seeking outdoor adventure, some lakeside beach time, or a memorable boat ride, a day trip from Munich by train to Lake Chiemsee will allow you to enjoy the “Bavarian Sea.”
Ingolstadt Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 1 hour by train.
Highlights: Home to the Audi Museum, Gothic architecture, and the Ingolstadt Village outlet shopping.
Ingolstadt, a historic city in Bavaria, blends rich history and modern innovation. Located along the banks of the Danube River, Ingolstadt’s highlights include an old town with well-preserved medieval architecture.
One of Ingolstadt's top attractions is the New Castle. Explore the castle's interiors, known for its intricate stucco work, frescoes, and period furnishings, and learn about the history of the region through its fascinating exhibits and collections.
Nearby, the old town is filled with winding streets leading to open squares where locals gather to shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Here you will also find the Gothic-style church Münster of Our Lady, with gothic spires and stained glass windows.
But Ingolstadt is not just a city of history—it's also a hub of innovation and creativity. Home to the Audi Museum, Ingolstadt is home to a thriving automotive industry and a reputation for cutting-edge research and development. Car lovers should explore the museum's exhibits and learn about the history of the Audi brand.
A day trip from Munich by train offers visitors a great combination of new and old. Ingolstadt is off most tourist radars, allowing for a relaxed day of exploration.
Munich to Innsbruck Day Trip
Distance: About 2 hours by train.
Highlights: Stunning mountain scenery, Imperial architecture, the Golden Roof, the Imperial Palace, and the Nordkette cable car.
Innsbruck, across the border in Austria, is a beautiful city thriving under the peaks of the Austrian Alps. At the heart of the city lies the historic Altstadt (Old Town). Here you can see the locally famous Golden Roof, a building facade adorned with thousands of gilded copper tiles, step into the St. James' Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture, and wander through the medieval streets lined with shops and cafes.
Innsbruck is very popular in the winter months. The nearby Nordkette mountain range has plenty of fun for skiers, snowboarders, and winter sports enthusiasts. In the summer, you can visit the region’s hiking trails and mountain biking routes.
Stay indoors for a visit to the Tyrolean State Museum to learn more about the region's history. For a unique activity visit Bergisel Ski Jump.
Hop on a train to take a day trip to Austria from Munich.
Day Trip to Hallstatt From Munich
Distance: About 3 hours by train (to Hallstatt via Salzburg and a ferry).
Highlights: Lakeside village with charming alpine houses, the Hallstatt Skywalk, historic salt mines, and the Ossuary.
Hallstatt, also across the border in the Austrian Alps, is a stunning location to visit. Taking this as a day trip from Munich is possible, but it would be better served with a weekend getaway. Hallstatt’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The narrow cobblestone streets are surrounded by 16th-century houses with window boxes filled with beautiful flowers.
Hallstatt is known for its lakeside setting, with views of the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the Hallstätter See. The lake offers plenty of things to see and do, from a simple stroll along the waterfront to a scenic boat cruise to explore the hidden coves and secluded beaches along the shoreline.
Nearby you can visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine, one of the oldest salt mines in the world, and learn about the region's mining heritage and the importance of salt in shaping the history and economy of the area. For a darker day visit the Hallstatt Bone House, a small chapel filled with over 1,200 intricately painted skulls. Also nearby is the Dachstein-Salzkammergut UNESCO World Heritage region and the Dachstein Ice Cave.
There is so much to see on a day trip from Munich by train to Hallstatt, Austria. Visit for a day and we’re sure you’ll plan another longer visit in the very near future.
Your Vacation is just a click Away.
Book your stay at a VRBO Today.
Munich to Würzburg Day Trip
Distance: About 2 hours by train.
Highlights: Baroque and Rococo architecture, Würzburg Residence (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and the Marienberg Fortress. Famous for its wine.
Würzburg is located in Franconia, part of northern Bavaria. Located on the Main River, Würzburg is known for its vineyards and dense forests. One of the top things to see in Würzburg is the Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe's most impressive baroque palaces. Explore the interiors decorated with frescoes and woodcarvings. Afterward, make sure to see the gardens that surround the palace.
But Würzburg is not just a city of palaces—it's also a hub of culture and creativity. Explore the city's vibrant arts scene at the Kulturspeicher, a contemporary art museum housed in a former grain silo, or attend a concert at the historic Würzburg Cathedral, where music has been performed for centuries.
Würzburg has loads of museums, galleries, and historic landmarks to explore. Visit the Mainfränkisches Museum to learn about the region's culture. See the Marienberg Fortress, a medieval fortress perched atop a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the city's art scene at the Kulturspeicher, a contemporary art museum housed in a former grain silo, or attend a concert at the Würzburg Cathedral, where music has been performed for centuries.
Würzburg is an unexpected delight filled with history and culture. Visiting the city from Munich by train is a great way to see the city’s top sights while getting a taste of the region of Franconia.
Lucerne, Switzerland Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 4 hours by train.
Highlights: Stunning lake and mountain scenery, Chapel Bridge, Lion Monument, Mount Pilatus, and Rigi.
Lucerne, located in central Switzerland, is on the shore of Lake Lucerne surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The four-hour train ride doesn’t lend well to spending just one day in Lucerne, but if you only have one day to see the city, it can be done.
Start your visit at the Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The wooden bridge from the 13th century is decorated with paintings depicting scenes from Swiss history and mythology. Continue to Hofkirche St. Leodegar, a 17th-century church with white stone interiors and twin steeple bell towers.
Explore the city's unique museums, from the Rosengart Collection, which houses works by Picasso and other modern masters, to the Swiss Museum of Transport, where visitors can learn about the history of transportation in Switzerland through interactive exhibits and displays. Or stay outside with a cruise on Lake Lucerne or take a cable car ride to explore the surrounding peaks and valleys.
We recommend staying a few days in Lucerne, but the stunning lake views are worth the long-ish train ride from Munich.
Check out our other posts about things to see and do in Germany!
Or visit our Destinations page to be inspired.
Day Trip From Munich To the Black Forest
Distance: About 3 hours by train (to Triberg).
Highlights: Dense forests, charming villages, cuckoo clocks, Triberg Waterfalls, and the scenic Black Forest High Road.
The Black Forest, accessed via Triberg, is a captivating region of Germany known for its dense forests, charming villages, and delicious namesake cake. Located in the southwestern part of the country, the Black Forest offers opportunities for outdoor adventure.
One of the highlights of the Black Forest is the town of Triberg, known for the Triberg Waterfalls, the highest waterfalls in Germany. The falls cascade down the mountainside in a series of cascades. The streets of the town center are the images many invoke when they think of Germany including traditional half-timbered houses.
Triberg is the gateway to the wider Black Forest region, which offers countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to hike or bike along scenic trails. Visit the Black Forest Open Air Museum, where you can learn about the region's rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life.
Whether you're exploring the waterfalls of Triberg, hiking through the forests of the Black Forest, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the region, a day trip by train from Munich is a great way to visit the Black Forest.
Berchtesgaden Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 2 hours by train.
Highlights: Alpine town with Königssee lake, Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), and Berchtesgaden National Park.
Berchtesgaden, near the Austrian border, is a beautiful destination known for its natural beauty. Most notably the Berchtesgaden National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The reserve has miles of hiking trails, glacier-fed lakes, and views of the surrounding Alps.
The town of Berchtesgaden is quaint and picturesque with small cafes, shops, and streets to explore. For those interested in history, visit the historic Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), Hitler's former mountain retreat, and learn about its fascinating history and legacy.
A train trip to Berchtesgaden from Munich offers a chance to enjoy the outdoors and the beauty of the Bavarian Alps.
Book exciting food tours, cooking classes, or dining experiences with EatWith. Use our EatWith promo code 46D22E68 for €10 off your first booking.
Augsburg Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 30 minutes by train.
Highlights: One of Germany’s oldest cities with Renaissance architecture, Augsburg Cathedral, and the historic Fuggerei.
Augsburg is one of Germany's oldest cities with a mix of medieval landmarks, Renaissance architecture, and modern amenities. Visit the Augsburg Cathedral with its impressive Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and explore the Rathaus (Town Hall), a masterpiece of Renaissance design. Afterward take a walk along the banks of the Lech River, which winds its way through the city.
But Augsburg is not just a city of history—it also has a thriving arts scene. Visit the Augsburg Art Museum, home to an extensive collection of European paintings and sculptures spanning centuries. The Augsburg Textile and Industry Museum, located in a former factory tells the history of fashion and production. Attend a performance at the Augsburg State Theatre, one of Germany's oldest and most renowned theaters, or a fun puppet show at Augsburger Puppenkiste.
Augsburg is well suited for a half-day trip when taking a day trip by train from Munich.
Linderhof Palace Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 2.5 hours by train (to Oberammergau, then a bus to the palace).
Highlights: Opulent palace by King Ludwig II, inspired by Versailles, set in beautiful grounds with ornate gardens.
Linderhof Palace, near the village of Oberammergau, is often overshadowed by the more famous Neuschwanstein. Built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century, Linderhof Palace is a masterpiece of architectural design with a mountain backdrop.
As intriguing as the palace itself, the Linderhof Palace gardens are considered among the finest examples of garden design in Europe. Visit the manicured lawns, flower beds, and fountains. Don’t miss the Venus Grotto, a subterranean cave with stalactites, waterfalls, and artificial lakes.
Taking a visit to Linderhof Palace from Munich is possible by train, but with (likely) three transfers, it may be a better option to book a tour from Munich. There are plenty of great options from our partners Get Your Guide or Viator.
Mittenwald Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 1.5 hours by train.
Highlights: Known for colorful frescoed buildings, violin-making history, stunning mountain views, and hiking trails in the Karwendel Mountains.
The journey to Mittenwald begins with a scenic drive ride through the landscapes of the Bavarian Alps. Upon arrival in Mittenwald, you’ll fall in love with the village's Bavarian charm. Visit the Parish Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, with its elaborately painted interior. Mittenwald is perhaps best known for its centuries-old tradition of violin making, which dates back to the 17th century. Explore the village's violin workshops where master craftsmen continue to handcraft some of the finest violins in the world. Visit the Geigenbaumuseum (Violin Making Museum) to learn about the history of violin making.
A visit to Mittenwald as a day trip from Munich is a great way to learn more about the region’s musical traditions.
Tegernsee Day Trip From Munich by Train
Distance: About 1 hour by train.
Highlights: Beautiful lake surrounded by the Bavarian Alps, perfect for boating, hiking, and enjoying the scenic Bavarian countryside. Historic Tegernsee Abbey.
Tegernsee is a lakeside town surrounded by forests among the Bavarian Alps. Visit the Tegernsee Abbey, a Benedictine monastery dating back over a thousand years, and explore its historic buildings, chapels, and gardens. At the Tegernsee Local Heritage Museum, you can learn about the region's traditional crafts, customs, and way of life. Or enjoy the lake by walking along the Tegernseer Steg or swimming in the glacial waters.
This lakeside retreat is an excellent day trip from Munich by train. With the short travel time, you can easily enjoy a full day at the lake with little hassle.
