Munich is a fantastic city on its own, but what makes it even better is how easy it is to escape into completely different worlds in just a few hours.
One day you’re in a lively Bavarian square, and the next you’re walking through a medieval town, standing inside a royal palace, or admiring alpine lakes.
These five day trips from Munich are perfect if you want to see more of Germany and nearby Austria without changing hotels or planning complicated routes.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1). Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle: A Fairytale Escape
Neuschwanstein Castle is one of those places that looks unreal even when you’re standing right in front of it, rising above green valleys with snowy Alps in the background, and once you see it, you’ll immediately understand why it inspired Disney.
Linderhof Palace offers a quieter but equally beautiful experience with its decorated rooms, fountains, and gardens that feel like something from another era, making this day trip a mix of jaw-dropping scenery and royal history that’s hard to forget.
Seeing Neuschwanstein in photos is one thing, standing in front of it is something you never forget.
2). Rothenburg & The Romantic Road: Medieval Beauty
Walking through Rothenburg ob der Tauber feels less like sightseeing and more like stepping into the past, with its narrow lanes, timber-framed houses, and old city walls that still surround the town.
The drive along the Romantic Road passes through peaceful countryside and charming villages that make the whole journey just as enjoyable as the destination, giving you a true taste of traditional Germany in the most picture-perfect way.
If you’ve ever wanted to walk through a real-life medieval town, this is your chance.
3). Dachau Memorial Site: A Moment of Reflection
Dachau is not a place you visit for photos or fun, but it’s a place everyone should see at least once, as the preserved camp grounds and museum quietly tell stories of suffering, survival, and loss.
It offers a sobering look into one of history’s darkest chapters, and a guided visit helps you understand the scale of what happened here while reminding you why it’s so important that these stories are never forgotten.
This is not just a tour, it’s an experience that stays with you long after the day ends.
4). Salzburg, St. Wolfgang & Salzkammergut: Alpine Dreams
This trip feels like several holidays packed into one day.
You’ll wander through Salzburg’s beautiful old town before heading into Austria’s lake region, where mountains reflect on clear waters and villages like St. Wolfgang seem untouched by time.
It’s a peaceful escape from the city that feels refreshing, scenic, and unforgettable all at once. Lakes, mountains, and Mozart’s hometown, this trip is pure magic.
5). Nuremberg: From Old Walls to Modern Life
Nuremberg blends the old with the new in a way that feels natural and alive.
Medieval towers and castles stand beside busy marketplaces and cozy restaurants, creating a city that feels both historic and lived-in.
Its darker history is just as present as its rich traditions. This is a place where you don’t just learn about history, you truly feel it as you walk through its streets.
Nuremberg is a city that tells many stories — medieval and modern, dark and beautiful.
Final Thoughts
Munich may be your base, but it doesn’t have to be your whole story.
Some of the most memorable places are just a short journey away, whether it’s a fairytale castle, a peaceful lakeside village, or an important historical site.
Even choosing just one of these day trips will add a deeper layer to your journey. You’ll return with stories you’ll be glad you didn’t miss.