Top Day Trips From Munich (Castles, Alps & Historic Cities)

Munich is one of those cities I keep coming back to. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit several times over the years—first as a fresh-out-of-college backpacker, and most recently on a work trip that I extended for a few extra days of exploring. Each visit reminded me that while Munich itself is incredible, some of Bavaria’s best experiences lie just outside the city.

👉 Planning a fall visit? Learn more about my top Oktoberfest tips here!

Once you’ve explored Munich to its fullest—beer gardens, museums, and historic old town included—these top day trips from Munich are well worth adding to your itinerary.

Best Day Trips From Munich

Here are the best day trips from Munich, whether you’re traveling by train or booking a guided tour.

Neuschwanstein Castle

One of the most iconic castles in the world, Neuschwanstein Castle looks straight out of a fairy tale. Set against the Bavarian Alps, it’s a must-see for first-time visitors. Most guided tours also include a stop at Linderhof Palace, making it an excellent value. The guides do a great job sharing historical context without it feeling overwhelming.

Best for: First-time visitors, photography, history
Time commitment: Full day

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

A visit to Dachau is a powerful and educational experience. While you can take the train directly from Munich city center, booking a guided tour ensures guaranteed entry and valuable historical insight. Without a tour, access is not always guaranteed upon arrival.

Best for: History travelers, WWII education
Time commitment: Half to full day

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Located along the famous Romantic Road, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is one of Germany’s most visited medieval towns. Known for its half-timbered houses and storybook atmosphere, it’s easy to see why. Many tours include scenic stops along the way and allow 2–3 hours of free time to explore the village independently.

Best for: Fairytale vibes, medieval architecture
Time commitment: Full day

Zugspitze Peak

At nearly 10,000 feet, Zugspitze is the highest peak in Germany and offers breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps. Day tours typically include a cable car ride to the summit and time to dine at the mountaintop restaurant before returning to Munich.

Best for: Nature lovers, mountain views
Time commitment: Full day

Salzburg, Austria

Just across the border in Austria, Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and one of the main filming locations for The Sound of Music. This is a long but rewarding day trip and perfect if you’re short on time but want to experience another country during your Munich stay.

Best for: Culture, music lovers, first-time Europe trips
Time commitment: Long full day

Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus)

For history enthusiasts, visiting Eagle’s Nest is a meaningful experience. Built during World War II, the site offers both historical insight and panoramic alpine views.

Best for: WWII history travelers
Time commitment: Full day

Nuremberg

I was lucky enough to spend a few days in Nuremberg, but if you’re short on time, it also makes a fantastic day trip from Munich. Guided tours typically include train transport, a visit to the Nazi Rally Grounds, and a walking tour of the historic city center.
(Internal link: Complete Guide to Nuremberg)

Best for: History, culture, architecture
Time commitment: Full day

Munich Day Trips FAQs

✔️ Do I need to book Munich day trips in advance?
Yes—especially during peak seasons like late spring through early fall. Popular destinations such as Neuschwanstein Castle and Salzburg often sell out.

✔️ What’s the best way to book day trips from Munich?
If you want flexibility, platforms like GetYourGuide are great since many tours offer free cancellation up to 24–36 hours in advance, which is ideal if your plans change.

Final Thoughts on Day Trips From Munich

Munich’s central location makes it one of the best bases in Europe for day trips, whether you’re interested in castles, history, alpine scenery, or charming medieval towns. If a destination is high on your bucket list, I recommend building it into your itinerary ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

For more inspiration, check out my other posts:

Now it’s time to plan your own adventure, Cheers!