Munich has a lot going for it: top gastronomy and a huge cultural offering make everyday life in the city so worth living in. But sometimes we long for a little escape from the urban jungle to explore the idyllic beauty of the surrounding countryside. For familiar Munich residents looking for new adventures, as well as visitors looking to make the most of their time – we’ve selected eight stunning villages around Munich that are perfect for an unforgettable day trip.
1. Herrsching am Ammersee
Our first stop is the beautiful Herrsching am Ammersee, just a short drive from Munich. A perfect blend of natural beauty and Bavarian hospitality awaits you here. Stroll along the lakeside promenade and enjoy the view of the glistening lake and the Alps in the background. Explore the charming old town – it’s the perfect place to unwind.
📍Location: 82211 Herrsching am Ammersee
🚆How to get there: The S-Bahn line 8 takes you to the village in less than an hour.
2nd Tegernsee
Lake Tegernsee is a real gem in the middle of the Bavarian Alps. Take a walk along the lake and enjoy the view of the peaks. If you want to treat yourself, visit one of the restaurants on the shore and try the famous Tegernsee beer. Lake Tegernsee also has plenty to offer in terms of sport: From hiking in pre-alpine terrain, boating on the glistening lake or cycling from alp to alp on an e-bike.
📍Location: 83684 Tegernsee
🚆Journey there: The RB57 takes you from Munich main station to Tegernsee in just over an hour.
3rd Landsberg am Lech
A village can hardly get more idyllic than Landsberg am Lech. The heart of the old town consists of colorful house facades, medieval towers and an old town hall. This charm is even enhanced to perfection by the river: A stroll along the Lech will make your trip unforgettable. The Lech or Karolinenwehr, where the water rushes down four steps, is also worth seeing.
📍Location: 86899 Landsberg am Lech
🚆Journey there: Take the RE72 to Kaufering, from there the RB69 will take you to Landsberg (Lech) in six minutes.
4th Dachau
Of course, Dachau is primarily known for the important concentration camp memorial. But in the village itself, you can also explore Dachau Castle, which sits majestically on a hill. Stroll through the streets of the old town and admire the elegant half-timbered houses and the Gothic parish church. If you are looking for a moment of peace and quiet, take a stroll through the idyllic courtyard garden.
📍Location: 85221 Dachau
🚆Journey there: Take the S2 from Munich Central Station to Dachau in 20 minutes.
5th Andechs
If you are looking for spiritual fulfillment , then the beautiful village of Andechs is the right place for a day trip. Here you will find the Benedictine monastery of Andechs, which has been attracting pilgrims and visitors from all over the world for centuries. After visiting the monastery complex, you should definitely visit the famous Andechs monastery brewery and try a fresh beer.
🚆Journey there: From Munich main station, take the S6 to Starnberg-Nord, where the 951 bus will take you to Andechs Monastery.
6th Wasserburg on the Inn
To round off our trip, we visit the medieval gem of Wasserburg am Inn, a picturesque town surrounded by the River Inn. Immerse yourself in history and explore the well-preserved old town with its narrow streets and colorful houses. Stroll along the Inn promenade and enjoy the calm river and the beautiful landscape.
📍Location: 83512 Wasserburg am Inn
🚆Journey there: Take the RB54 to Kufstein, where you change to the RB48 to Wasserburg am Inn.
7th Weßling
Lake Weßling in the village of the same name is a popular bathing lake, which is great for swimming and walking in good weather and which you can walk around in an hour. The water is of perfect quality, so you’ll get your money’s worth here. The village of Weßling itself is also worth a visit. It completely surrounds the lake of the same name like hardly any other place. It’s well worth a visit!
📍Location: 82234 Weßling
🚆How to get there: Take the S-Bahn line 8 from Munich to Herrsching, get off at the Weßling stop.
8th Kaltenberg Castle
Even if it’s not a place in itself, for us Kaltenberg Castle is definitely one of the most beautiful villages around Munich! Getting there involves a bit of a hike: Because from the S-Bahn station, you’ll have to walk about 45 minutes to reach Kaltenberg Castle. But the walk is worth it. Founded in 1292, the castle was once the residence of Luitpold Prince of Bavaria, a great-grandson of King Ludwig III, the last Bavarian king. It is accordingly magnificent to look at. And if you fancy a break, the castle brewery has popular refreshments for you.
📍Location: Kaltenberg Castle
🚆How to get there: Take the S4 in the direction of Geltendorf
These eight enchanting villages around Munich offer the perfect getaway for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re discovering the natural beauty of Lake Ammersee, exploring the historical heritage of Dachau or seeking a spiritual experience in Andechs, this day trip will enrich you. Pack your bag, grab your camera and set off to explore these wonderful villages around Munich!