Munich is one of the most popular cities in Germany for tourists, but did you know that it is also the perfect base for exploring the surroundings of Bavaria? There are so many incredible views a day away from Munich that you could spend your entire vacation on day trips. Even if you are simply looking to spice up your next visit to Munich, consider these amazing Bavarian attractions as you plan your trip.
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Eagle’s nest
Direction
Kehlsteinhaus, 83471 Berchtesgaden, GermanyGet directions
Telephone
+49 8652 2969
Web
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As its name suggests, the Eagle’s Nest is a towering perch that offers you a panoramic view of the Bavarian Alps and Lake Königsee, which is located just below it. Although a bus runs to the top of the mountain all day, the most rewarding route to the Eagle’s Nest is a two-hour hike from Berchtesgaden, the city at its base. The views and weather are best in the spring and summer, but no matter when you go, Eagle’s Nest is a comfortable 2.5-hour train ride from Munich.
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Castillo Hohenzollern
Direction
72379 Burg Hohenzollern, GermanyGet directions
Telephone
+49 7471 2428
Web
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Before Germany existed, there was Prussia, and while southerners in modern-day Germany might simply prefer to be Bavarians, a relic of the Prussian past invites you to visit. Located in Hechingen, about 3 hours by train from Munich by train, Hohenzollern Castle evokes the splendor of Prussia’s most famous ruling dynasty. Although Hohenzollern Castle looks timeless, it officially dates back to 1264, making it one of the oldest structures in Germany.
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Bayreuth
Direction
Bahnhofstrasse 20, 95448 Bayreuth, GermanyGet directions
Munich draws beer drinks from around the world during Oktoberfests, but if you’re looking to drink German beer during the proverbial low season, head to Bayreuth, which is less than an hour from Munich on any of the daily trains. The Maisel brewery is located here, and you can enjoy a tour of its facilities for between € 16 and € 19 per person, depending on the season. Even if you plan to return to the Bavarian capital with your sobriety intact, you will appreciate the legacy of the composer Richard Wagner, who struck many correct notes in Bayreuth.
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Dachau
Direction
Alte Römerstrasse 75, 85221 Dachau, GermanyGet directions
Telephone
+49 8131 669970
Web
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Although the sadness of Dachau’s past is evident, visiting the site of the former concentration camp is a humbling, and perhaps even momentous, experience. Although Dachau, which is about 40 minutes by S-Bahn from Munich’s Hauptbahnhof, gave birth to the chilling phrase ‘Arbecht Macht Frei’ (Work Makes Free), its memorial yard reminds you never to forget what happened here. Take some time to explore the museum for an emotional and informative look at Dachau’s not-so-distant past.
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Landsberg am Lech
Direction
86899 Landsberg am Lech, AlemaniaGet directions
Web
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Medieval Landsberg am Lech is another reminder that you don’t have to travel more than an hour from Munich to be in another world. A city of towers, Landsberg am Lech features monoliths dedicated to witches and mothers alike, and even the virtue of beauty. Consider turning off your electronic devices as you walk the walls of the old city, and it may feel like you’ve stepped back to a distant time.
No matter which of these fabulous day trips you choose to embark on, you can start and end your day in a comfortable Munich hotel in the heart of the Old Town or close to local attractions like the English Garden or the Residenz Palace. You may never want to leave Munich, but Bavaria invites you to explore.
