Whether you live in or around Munich, or are visiting somewhere near Munich, there are PLENTY of places to go if you’re looking to take advantage of a beautiful day!
If you don’t mind getting up and leaving your house around 6am, driving no more than 3-3 1/2 hours (one way), you CAN manage a FULL day in any of the following locations. I know, because I’m crazy enough to have managed many of these in a single hit and run, wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am kinda day trip! Especially during the summer months when the weather is great and the nights are long.
Quite personally, I find that many Germans don’t actually travel much around their home country, let alone leave their hometown that often. Ok so I travel a bit obsessively, but why wouldn’t you want to get outta your 20 mile radius and explore more!?! And ok…many of these could be extended into a long weekend trip, but when you’re itching to get out, 3 hours is nothing!
People always think I’m crazy for driving somewhere 3+ hours and now make it a weekend trip, but for me I grew up in California where driving 3 hours and you’re still in the same town because you’re sitting in traffic! Driving 3 hours in Europe and you’re in another state or another country!
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Bavaria, Germany
1. Schloss Nymphenburg
Time: 24
Located on the outskirts of Munich, this beautiful palace is definitely a must for visitors who love stunning stucco artwork, beautiful architecture and lush gardens with hidden treasures! It’s first on the list because most people either forget about it or overlook it, but it makes a great day trip in your own backyard! (More on Schloss Nymphenburg here)
2. Chiemsee & Schloss Herrnchiemsee
Time: 59 min
Another one of mad King Ludwig II’s castles that he built, but never finished. This castle is located on the Herreninsel (island) on Lake Chiemsee and was built as a replica to France’s Palace of Versailles in honor of the ‘Sun King’ Louis XIV. Although it is a much smaller scale, the Hall of Mirrors is definitely worth a visit as well as the stunning gardens. (More on Chiemsee here)
3. Starnbergersee
Time: 43 min
Just 16 miles southwest of Munich and with the S-Bahn, the lake is easily reachable every 15-20 minutes. Starnbergersee is Germany’s 5th largest freshwater later and enjoys beautiful views of Zugspitze from the Starnberg shore. It is a fantastic place for a family outing, even with little ones and bikers! (More on Starnbergersee here)
4. Dachau Concentration Camp
Time: 28 min
The town of Dachau will unfortunately always be linked to one of the worst concentration camps in Germany. Dachau was the first concentration camp to be built in Germany and soon more would follow the example of Dachau. It was built in 1933 and was supposed to be a forced labor camp for “political prisoners” but over the next 12 years, 200,000 people would be imprisoned here and 40,000 would be methodically murdered here and is worth a visit as those who don’t understand history are bound to repeat it. (More on Dachau here)
5. Tegernsee
Time: 48 min
Located in one of Southern Bavaria’s most stunning regions, surrounded by mountain peaks is Lake Tegernsee. Scattered around the lake are five small villages hugging the shoreline, easily reachable with trips across the lake by boat. Great location for a slower pace with a touch of sophistication. (More on Tegernsee here)
6. Berchtesgaden
Time: 1 hr 46
Hailed as one of the most beautiful regions, not just in Germany but in all of Europe. Surrounded by the Berchtesgaden Alps, it’s worth a day trip to this region just to drive around and admire the views, get out and do a bit of hiking or simply enjoy the little village. (More on Berchtesgaden here)
7. Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle’s Nest)
Time: 2 hr 32
Built for and gifted to Hitler for his 50th birthday, it is one of the few locations that were not destroyed after the war to prevent Neo-Nazi gatherings. Instead, this beautiful house was saved as a feat of architecture for its era and was reinvented as a restaurant with breathtaking views of the Berchtesgaden National Park. (More on Kehlsteinhaus here)
8. Königssee
Time: 2 hr 32
One of Bavaria’s most unspoiled, fjord-like lakes, it is a must for those who truly appreciate the beauty of nature. Enjoy a historic boat ride across the lake before reaching St. Bartholomews Church and even a bit further, the majestic Obersee. While you’re here, try to make time to visit Kehlsteinhaus or take a ride on the Jennerbahn for a view over Königssee.(More on Königssee here)
9. Ramsau an der Ache
Time: 2 hr 23
If you’re already going to be in the Berchtesgaden region, then I highly suggest driving just a bit more to find this enchanting parish church in the small village of Ramsau, with a jaw-dropping backdrop of the Alps. (More on Ramsau here)
10. Mittenwald
Time: 1 hr 24
Not only is the small little town of Mittenwald adorable, but there lies a gorge that is said to be inhabited by a spirit and his goblins. For a great hike and beautiful crystal blue waters, this little pathway which clings to the side of the mountain is fun for the the entire family! (More on Mittenwald here)
11. Zugspitze
Time: 1 hr 39
Germany’s tallest peak sits at 2,962m high and offers endless views as far as the eye can see. Perfect year round for those who are interested in skiing, hiking or sightseeing! While here, consider exploring the town of Garmish-Partenkirchen where the Olympics were once held! (More on Zugspitze here)
12. Füssen
Time: 1 hr 37
The last and final stop on the Romantic Road and is definitely worth visiting. Perched high on a rock, above the town is the palace of the Augsburg prince-bishops which began construction in 1291. (More on Füssen Coming Soon)
13. Schloss Neuschwanstein & Schloss Hohenschwangau
Time: 1 hr 45
If you’re in Bavaria, then you CAN NOT leave without visiting THE most fairytale-like, romantic castle that all hopeless romantics are drawn to create their own fairytale story. Built by the mad King Ludwig II of Bavaria, it was never completed after his untimely death. Since its creation, it has inspired even people like Walt Disney! And just a hop, skip and a jump across the road is Schloss Hohenschwangau where Ludwig spent some of his childhood, and where he stayed while he built his masterpiece. (More on Schloss Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau here)
14. Wieskirche
Time: 1 hr 23
Not directly on the Romantic Road, it is located in the foothills of the Alps and it’s definitely worth a visit on your way to/from Schloss Neuschwanstein! This pilgrimage church is an oval rococo church is a miraculous masterpiece of Bavarian Rococo and is probably the finest in the world! (More on Wieskirche Coming Soon)
15. Schloss Linderhof
Time: 1 hr 13
You can never have enough castles and of the three castles that mad King Ludwig II of Bavaria built, only Schloss Linderhof was completed before his untimely death. The King chose to live here in part because of its secluded location, as well as because of the splendor of the castle. One of the most popular attractions here is the Venus Grotto which was designed after stories from Richard Wagner. (More on Schloss Linderhof here)
16. Kloster Ettal (Abbey)
Time: 1 hr 2
The village of Ettal has a beautiful Benedictine monastery home to about 50 monks which was founded by Emperor Ludwig IV of Bavaria in 1330. The inside is stunningly designed in Rococo stucco work with a massive dome with pale yellow frescoes. The monastery also produces its own fruit liqueurs, flavored brandies and beer! (More on Ettal here)
17. Lindau
Time: 1 hr 47
Lindau is the one town Bavaria can pride itself on for being on Lake Constance (Bodensee). Tthe borders of Germany, Austria and Switzerland meet. The most popular attraction here is the Flower Island of Mainau, famous for its beautiful gardens.
18. Kloster Andechs (Abbey)
Time: 44 min
Located in the town of is the pilgrimage site of Andechs Abbey, perched upon the 700-m Holy Mountain of Andechs. Worth a visit here simply for the views from the tower of Ammersee as well as the excellent beer the monks brew.
19. Oberammergau
Time: 1 hr 8
Home to the Passion Play which is only performed every 10 years, the town itself is still worth visiting for all of the fabulous and colorful folk art on the facades of the buildings.
20. Burghausen
Time: 1 hr 23
Close to the Austrian border is the very picturesque town of Burghausen is home to Europe’s longest castle, stretching 1,100m (1,200 yards) along the river Salzach.
21. Landsberg am Lech
Time: 51 min
Most tourists seem to skip over Landsberg am Lech as it lies between Augsburg and Füssen, therefore, the town isn’t overcrowded with tourists looking for that picturesque ambience that Rothenburg can offer. But that doesn’t mean the town isn’t worth looking at, because it definitely is!
22. Augsburg
Time: 1 hr
The third largest town in Bavaria, was one of the richest towns until the Thirty Years’ War ended it prosperity. Nonetheless, the town has a stunning city hall and thoroughfare lined with significant buildings, shops and restaurants. (More on Augsburg here)
23. Schloss Schleissheim
Time: 21 min
The town of Schleissheim is home to a Baroque palace, great for an easy day trip from Munich. The palace is actually comprised of three individual palaces in a grand baroque park in the village of Oberschleißheim, a suburb of Munich and was once the summer residence of the Bavarian rulers from the House of Wittelsbach (King Ludwig’s family).
24. Passau
Time: 1 hr 56
Passau’s Old City Center is surround by three rivers that converge into one large river. There’s the Donau (Danube), Inn and Ilz rivers. Therefore, Passau is also known as “The City of Three Rivers“. Passau is also a very popular tourist destination for those traveling by boat down the Danube River.(More on Passau here)
25. Ulm
Time: 1 hr 26
Ulm’s Minster is the absolute focal point of the city and is also known as being the world’s tallest church standing at a whopping 162 meters high! Tourists who aren’t afraid of heights can climb the steep steps to the top for a fantastic view over the city! (More on Ulm here)
26. Kloster Wiblingen Library
Time: 1 hr 28
The Abbey was once a former Benedictine Monastery that was later used as barracks and now houses several departments of the medical faculty from the University of Ulm and is home to one of Europe’s most stunning libraries. The library is designed in the whimsical Rococo style of pale pinks and blues. (More on Wiblingen Library here)
27. Regensburg
Time: 1 hr 15
The entire city of Regensburg is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site with 1,500 historic buildings in the city center as well as Stadtamhof. The cathedral is one of the only French Gothic style cathedrals east of the Rhine. The historical Stone Bridge was considered the 8th wonder of the world when it was completed in 1146. (More on Regensburg here)
28. Kloster Weltenburg (Abbey)
Time: (To Kelheim) 1 hr 11
Just below the Befreiungshalle in the small village of Kelheim, you can find a small parking lot next to the DeutschePost from where the ships pick up to take you downstream to the beautiful Kloster (Abbey) that is not only famous for its church designed by the Asam Brothers but for the fantastic beer the monks brew here. You could drive, but why not go by boat? (More on Weltenburg Abbey here)
29. Kuchlbauer Brewery & Hundertwasserturm in Abensberg
Time: 1 hr 1
Just a 30 minute drive from Regensburg is the small Bavarian town of Abensberg and here you will find a brewery famous for their Weissbier (Wheat beer) as well as a futuristic tower designed and created by the Austrian artist Friedrich Hundertwasser. (More on Abensberg here)
30. Nördlingen
Time: 1 hr 32
Located in the Donau-Ries district, Nördlingen is the third of three medieval walled towns on the Romantic Road, it’s has by far one of the most interesting origins. The town is surprisingly built entirely inside of a massive crater, that was created some 14 million years ago when a meteorite struck the Earth! So, that makes it all the more worth visiting! It wasn’t until 1960 that two American scientists discovered that the town was in fact built inside of a crater! Today, it’s called the Nördlinger-Ries, or the Ries Crater. (More on Nördlingen here)
31. Dinkelsbühl
Time: 1 hr 54
The second medieval walled town of three along the Romantic Road, Dinkelsbühl is located in Central Franconia and is definitely worth a visit. Luckily, the entire town escaped the Second World War completely unscathed, which means that it remains just as beautiful today as it did in the Medieval Ages. Although, the town claims it is “the most beautiful town in Germany”. (More on Dinkelsbühl here)
32. Nuremberg
Time: 1 hr 32
The second largest city in Bavaria, this town is definitely worth a day trip. Partially surrounded by its medieval walls, the town has a dark connection to the Nazi era, and has tons of interesting things to do for anyone interested in WWII history. If not, there’s a beautiful castle perched upon the hill overlooking the town. (More on Nuremberg here)
33. Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Time: 2 hr 14
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a small town that packs a big punch of endless historical, colorful, medieval half-timbered houses. Considered one of the most picturesque towns in Germany along the Romantic Road, so this is one town you DO NOT want to miss! (More on Rothenburg ob der Tauber here)
34. Würzburg
Time: 2 hr 39
Würzburg is considered to be the gateway to the Romantic Road which leads to Füssen with some of the most amazing German towns and is definitely a wine-lovers paradise! The town itself is popular for having many wine festivals between spring and summer. And it’s definitely worth walking up to the Marienberg Fortress which is perched above the city, for a great view. (More on Würzburg here)
35. Bamberg
Time: 2 hr 11
Bamberg is a town of historical importance and is situated over seven hills! The most popular attraction is undoubtedly the Altes Rathaus (Old City Hall) which is located in the middle of a bridge, and of course the unique taste of Smoked Beer! (More on Bamberg here)
36. Bayreuth
Time: 2 hr 10
The perfect day trip for lovers of music as the town is associated with the composer Richard Wagner and has one of the most stunning Baroque Opera houses in Europe. The Eremitage was built in the French fashion as a retreat and is definitely worth visiting.
Baden-Württemburg
37. Blaubeuren and it’s Blautopf
Time: 1 hr 40
Probably one of Germany’s best kept secrets lies in the small little half-timbered town of Balubeuren. In a corner of the town, you’ll find the most magical place of any fairytale! Sitting next to the whimsical crystal blue waters is the most adorable little house with a water wheel.(More on Blaubeuren here)
38. Schloss Lichtenstein
Time: 2 hr 16
This beautiful castle is considered to be a Gothic Revival Castle in Baden-Württemburg which was built to replace an older version of the castle. Today, it is one of the most fairy-tale like castles that pays homage to the Middle Ages and is commonly referred to an Schloss Neuschwanstein’s “Little Brother”. (More on Schloss Lichtenstein here)
39. Stuttgart
Time: 2 hr 35
The capital of Baden-Württemberg and home to Mercedes and Porsche, the city is one of the most important manufacturing industrial centers. Business aside, the city center has several splendid historical sites and great shopping. Great place to consider for a day trip especially during Christmas Market season! (More on Stuttgart here)
40. Esslingen am Neckar
Time: 2 hr 23
Just a 15 minute drive from Stuttgart is the absolutely picturesque half-timbered town of Esslingen, untouched by the ravages of war. Therefore, the town is exactly the same as it was in during the Medieval Ages, surrounded by rolling hills of vineyards.(More on Esslingen here)
41. Schloss Ludwigsburg
Time: 2 hr 49
What was once a simple hunting lodge has over time evolved into a beautiful, sprawling palace. Today, people love to visit the Germany’s largest baroque palaces because of it’s stunning gardens and of course for the delicious annual Pumpkin Festival. (More on Schloss Ludgwigsburg here)
42. Heidelberg
Time: 3 hr 19
I squeezed this in the list, as it’s just over a 3 hour drive from Munich, and to be honest, how could you NOT consider driving to this wonderful town!? A historic town perfect for hopeless romantics to loose their hearts strolling the banks of the Neckar and wandering the ruins of the Heidelberg Castle. (More on Heidelberg here)
43. Burg Hohenzollern
Time: 3 hr 4
Perched upon a hill in the Schwabian Alb, this previous fortress has evolved into a castle with multiple towers and turrets over the centuries and is a wonderful example of neo-Gothic architecture. Today, the castle still belongs to the Hohenzollern family and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. (More on Burg Hohenzollern here)
44. Tübingen
Time: 2 hr 29
Along with Freiburg im Breisau and Heidelberg, Tübingen is home to one of southern Germany’s three famous universities. With many half-timbered houses and Schloss Hohentübingen which towers over the town, it is another picturesque town worth visiting.
Austria
45. Innsbruck
Time: 1 hr 53
Innsbruck is the capital of the Tyrol and is Austria’s most important tourist region. What makes Innsbruck special is that it is nestled into the Tyrolean Alps and during the winter, it is one of the many popular ski towns people flock to. With colorful, vibrant buildings and a crystal clear river flowing through the town, this will make for a joyful day trip! (More on Innsbruck here)
46. Hallstatt
Time: 2 hr 26
Hallstatt, Austria is one of those idyllic towns that ends up on those “must-see-before-you-die” lists as being one of the most beautiful towns to bless this planet. Located in a remote part of Austria along the banks of the Hallstätter See in the Salzkammergut region, the town clings to the edges of the lake, making for one of the most picturesque towns ever! (More on Hallstatt here)
47. Salzburg
Time: 2 hr 11
Salzburg borders Germany and Austria and is only a short distance away from Berechtesgaden.Home to the popular story of the Sound of Music, it’s worth coming to this town to explore the sights that Julie Andrews skipped and sang her way through! (More on Salzburg here)
48. Admont Abbey Library
Time: 3 hr 9
Tucked away in the Gesäuse National Park in the Stryia region, is the oldest Benedictine monastery in the region and contains the largest monastic library in the world! Decorated in pastel pinks and blues and highlighted with gold accents, it left one to imagine they were walking through the pearly gates of heaven! One of the Europe’s most stunning libraries. Admont Abbey’s library was considered to be the “Eighth World Wonder” soon after its completion in 1776. (More on Admont Library here)
Czechia (Czech Republic)
49. Cesky Krumlov
Time: 3 hr 26
Surrounded by a meandering Vltava River, with an incredibly interesting history, this town is a must see for those who are looking for something a little different than your average city! Founded in the 13th century and once owned by three different families, it escaped the horrors of both world wars and was forgotten about until the 90s, therefore, preserving it’s unique appearance earning it it’s UNESCO World Heritage badge. (More on Cesky Krumlov here)
50. Ceske Budejovice
Time: 3 hr 40
A bit further of a drive than the rest, but well worth the effort! The capital of South Bohemia, České Budějovice is home to a large industrial center, which helped it to grow. The historic city center shows the wealth that the city once enjoyed with colorful, unique, intricate buildings which helps draw people in who are looking for something a little less touristy besides just Prague. And just a short drive of about ten minutes sit the Hluboká Castle well worth a visit! (More on Ceske Budejovice here)
Other related posts:
Top Places to Visit in Germany
Most Picturesque Half-Timbered Towns in Germany
A COMPLETE Guide to Using the DeutscheBahn in Germany
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California Globetrotter 
March 6, 2017 at 6:13 am
Can’t wait to get back to Germany and explore some more. Thanks for more suggestions for places to see.
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March 6, 2017 at 3:58 pm
I totally agree! Three or four hours in a car is nothing. There is so much within reach in Europe that it seems criminal to not get out and explore. Awesome list! Thanks for linking up! #wkendtravelinspiration
March 10, 2017 at 7:20 pm
Ok, so “Ultimate” is right, holy moly! You know how I feel about day trips so I love this list. You’re so right about Europeans not exploring more of their own country or even neighbouring ones which as an Australian I always struggle to comprehend. From your list, I think I’ve only been to Berchtesgarden in Germany recently, although we did visit Heidelberg and Nuremberg when I was a kid. So much of Germany I need to explore and this has to be the definitive list to use!
March 10, 2017 at 7:42 pm
I was just looking at your page today and saw you had nothing from Germany! Looks like you need to come here soon!