When Munich’s summer heat beats down on the asphalt again, we’re all drawn to the surrounding countryside. If you already know the Eisbach and Lake Starnberg like the back of your hand, you should pack your bag and head southeast. Lake Chiemsee is the perfect spot for a day trip in the vacation region. Covering 80 km², the “Bavarian Sea” isn’t just the largest lake in Bavaria—it also offers picturesque islands and beach towns, as well as a nearly 60-km-long loop trail for hiking or biking. Here’s your ultimate guide to a day at Lake Chiemsee!
Island-Hopping, Bavarian Style: Visiting Herreninsel and Fraueninselhttps://www.instagram.com/reel/DbP8_MBsqAS/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Lake Chiemsee and its scenic surroundings, framed by the Chiemgau Mountains, make the area one of Bavaria’s most popular vacation and recreation destinations. Nevertheless, Lake Chiemsee is best known for its idyllic islands. The absolute highlight of a visit to Lake Chiemsee is therefore a boat ride with Chiemsee-Schifffahrt, which takes you from island to island in complete relaxation.
On Herreninsel, King Ludwig II built his own personal Versailles: The imposing Herrenchiemsee Palace captivates visitors with its magnificent water features, the vast palace grounds, and the famous Hall of Mirrors. Fraueninsel provides the perfect contrast and charms visitors with its historic fishermen’s cottages and blooming gardens. The island is an oasis of tranquility and is wonderful to walk around, as cars and even bicycles are prohibited for visitors.
Need to cool off? The best swimming spots on the lake
What would a summer day at Lake Chiemsee be without a dip in the cool water? With water temperatures reaching up to 24 degrees in midsummer, Lake Chiemsee is a true paradise for water lovers. If you want to feel fine sand beneath your feet, grab a spot at the Übersee beach. You’ll find gorgeous sunbathing areas and shaded spots at the Bernau-Felden beach or in Chieming, where you can enjoy the view of the Chiemgau Alps right from your towel. Whether it’s a secluded natural cove or a bustling beach with a kiosk and ice cream: the water quality is fantastic and refreshment is guaranteed!
Water activities and beach vibes at sunset
If you prefer a more active outing, you can rent a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or an electric boat in Prien or Bernau to explore the bays on your own. As the day draws to a close, be sure to head to the eastern shore . Here you’ll find laid-back beach bars where you can watch the sunset with a cold drink in hand and some chill tunes playing. As the sun sinks behind the Kampenwand peaks, you’ll completely forget that you’re in Germany.
How to get there
🚊 By train: From Munich Central Station, you can reach Prien am Chiemsee in about an hour on the Regiobahn. From there, the historic Chiemsee Railway takes you directly to the harbor in the summer.
🚗 By car: Take the A8 toward Salzburg (Bernau exit). Tip: On weekends, it’s best to leave early to avoid traffic jams.
