Munich is a vibrant city in Bavaria that blends history, architecture, and a lively cultural scene. There is plenty to discover within the city limits, including Munich’s famous Oktoberfest, historic beer halls, and impressive landmarks. But what lies beyond the city, well within a day trip, is absolutely worth a visit too! Here we explore some of Germany’s picturesque destinations just a short journey from Munich.
1 - Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle was built in the 19th century, commissioned by King Ludwig II who was often referred to as the fairy tale king. Less than a two-hour drive from Munich, the castle is nestled at the feet of the Alps. Legend has it that Ludwig felt constrained within the walls of his Munich palace so he built Neuschwanstein as a rural retreat. Ludwig’s admiration of music composer Richard Wagner partly inspired the castle’s architectural design. The castle inspired Disneyland’s iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.
2 - Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
Dachau was a Nazi concentration camp opened in 1933. As the first and longest-operating Nazi concentration camp, the main working camp was liberated by American forces in April 1945. The memorial site is located roughly 35 minutes north of Munich. From the Dachau train station, visitors can walk the Path of Remembrance to honor prisoners who were forced to walk to the concentration camp. Guided tours are available and take visitors to the permanent exhibition, the former campgrounds, and historical buildings on the property.
3 - Harburg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Harburg is one of 29 lovely cities and villages along the German Romantic Road (Romantische Straße), a 460-kilometer stretch of road through southern Germany. The medieval-era Harburg Castle sits atop a cliff overlooking the area. The Wörnitz River runs through the city and the Steinerne Brücke (bridge) is a great place for visitors to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch. Meander another hour and a half north on the Romantic Road towards Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This charming town features medieval architecture, gate houses and towers, and a lively cobblestone old town.
4 - Salzburg
Fancy a trip to another country? Cross the Austrian border for a day trip southest to Salzburg. In less than a two-hour drive from Munich, visitors can enjoy exploring Mozart’s birthplace. The stunning Baroque architecture and Sound of Music movie landmarks are popular attractions.
5 - Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden is a charming mountain town. The alpine destination is less than a two-hour drive southeast from Munich and could easily be paired with a day trip to Salzburg. Visit the old town then head to Hitler’s hideaway, The Eagle’s Nest (the Kehlsteinhaus), set atop a mountain with stunning views of the Austrian and Bavarian Alps.
