Veröffentlicht von Travelling by train from Munich opens up a world of exciting day trips. With Germany’s efficient rail network, you can explore fairytale castles, alpine towns, historic cities and scenic lakes — all without renting a car.
This guide highlights popular **Munich day trips by train**, how to get there, what to see, approximate travel times and practical tips for train travel. Whether you want stunning mountain views or charming Bavarian towns, there’s a trip that fits your style.
Top Day Trips from Munich
Explore castles, lakes and Alpine towns with organized bus tours from central Munich.
How Train Travel Works in Bavaria
Germany’s rail operator, Deutsche Bahn (DB), connects Munich with major cities and regional destinations across Bavaria and beyond. Regional trains (RE, RB) are ideal for day trips — they are reliable, comfortable and usually don’t require seat reservations.
Tickets can be bought at ticket machines in the station, at DB counters or via the DB Navigator app. For regional trips, you often don’t need advance reservations, but high-speed or long-distance trains (ICE, IC) do have reserved seating.
1) Neuschwanstein Castle & Hohenschwangau
Why visit: Bavaria’s most famous castle, fairytale views, alpine backdrop.
Train route: Munich Hbf → Füssen (regional train)
- Travel time: ~2 hours one way
- From Füssen: Bus 78 to Hohenschwangau
Once in Hohenschwangau, it’s an uphill walk or shuttle to Neuschwanstein Castle. Don’t miss the Marienbrücke viewpoint for the iconic castle photo.
2) Nymphenburg Palace & Park
Why visit: Elegant Baroque palace, expansive gardens, museums and canals.
Train route: Munich Hbf → München-Pasing (S-Bahn or regional) + tram/bus or taxi short ride
- Travel time: ~15–20 minutes
Schloss Nymphenburg is perfect for a relaxed half-day trip if you want classic palace architecture and beautiful park walks.
3) Lake Starnberg (Starnberger See)
Why visit: Scenic lake, boat rides, mountain views.
Train route: Munich Hbf → Starnberg (S-Bahn S6)
- Travel time: ~40 minutes
From Starnberg station, you can walk to the lake promenade or take a boat trip on the lake. The area is perfect for relaxed lunches, swimming in summer and Bavaria’s scenic atmosphere.
4) Salzburg (Austria)
Why visit: Mozart’s birthplace, baroque architecture, Salzach River views.
Train route: Munich Hbf → Salzburg Hbf (regional or Railjet)
- Travel time: ~1h 30m – 2h
Salzburg makes a great international day trip from Munich. Explore the Old Town, Fortress Hohensalzburg and the Mirabell Palace gardens.
5) Regensburg – Medieval City on the Danube
Why visit: UNESCO Old Town, stone bridge, cathedral.
Train route: Munich Hbf → Regensburg Hbf (regional/IC)
- Travel time: ~1h 30m – 2h
Regensburg’s well-preserved medieval center is ideal for history lovers and makes a slightly quieter counterpoint to Munich.
6) Bamberg – UNESCO Old Town & Beer Culture
Why visit: Amazing old town, rivers, historic breweries.
Train route: Munich Hbf → Bamberg Hbf (ICE/IC + regional)
- Travel time: ~2h 30m
Bamberg is famous for its smoked beer (Rauchbier) and charming old town. It’s ambitious for a day trip but possible with early departure.
7) Garmisch-Partenkirchen & Zugspitze Base
Why visit: Alpine scenery, Zugspitze access.
Train route: Munich Hbf → Garmisch-Partenkirchen (regional)
- Travel time: ~1h 30m – 2h
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is ideal for mountain views, lake walks and alpine excursions. You can combine with the Zugspitze cable car for summit views (weather permitting).
8) Innsbruck (Austria)
Why visit: Alpine capital, historic Old Town, mountain backdrop.
Train route: Munich Hbf → Innsbruck Hbf (regional/Eurocity)
- Travel time: ~2h – 2h 15m
Innsbruck combines Tyrolean culture with stunning mountain scenery. Explore the Golden Roof, Imperial Palace and surrounding peaks.
Train Travel Tips
- DB Navigator app: Best for schedules and tickets
- Regional vs Long-Distance: Regional trains often cost less
- Seat reservations: Not always necessary for regional trains
- Check return times: Frequent services on main routes, but some rural lines run less often
When to Go
- Spring & Summer: Best weather, scenic views
- Autumn: Fall colors around lakes and castles
- Winter: Snow on alpine trips, festive markets
Is a Train Day Trip Worth It?
Absolutely. Munich’s central location and Germany’s excellent rail network make day trips by train easy and rewarding. Most destinations are reachable in 2 hours or less, perfect for a full day of exploration without car rental stress.