Ready to escape without leaving Bavaria? On the outskirts of Munich, 13 getaways take you from sparkling lakes to medieval villages, through perched abbeys and XXL thermals, all within an hour by train or car. From the “Bavarian sea” of Chiemsee to the alpine landscapes of Tegernsee, from the elegant Augsburg to the wellness of Therme Erding, each detour promises nature, culture, and a way of life. Between peaceful cruises, grand panoramas, and breaks at a Biergarten, follow the guide for fresh air just a stone’s throw from the city.
Want a breath of fresh air without leaving Bavaria for too long? Here’s a lively and smart guide to explore 13 getaways around Munich, all accessible in less than an hour. Between alpine lakes, historic towns, baroque monasteries, and XXL wellness, choose today’s vibe: culture, nature, relaxation… or all at once.
This overview condenses the best of the surroundings of Munich: from the “Bavarian sea” of Chiemsee to medieval villages, passing through giant thermals and unexpected museums. Thanks to an impressively effective network of trains and S-Bahn, these outings can be booked at a whim. Need a helping hand to build a well-crafted itinerary? Get inspired by ideas for custom trips designed by experts and pick your happiness.
Chiemsee – The “Bavarian sea” in royal style
About 1 hour from Munich (by road or rail), Chiemsee unfolds its vast waters, tranquil cruises, and charming islands. On Herreninsel, the Herrenchiemsee palace, a lavish whim of Louis II inspired by Versailles, sparkles amidst gardens and fountains.
Between two crossings, wander on Fraueninsel, enjoy a smoked fish from the lake, then set sail again. Postcard ambiance, with a royal twist.
Starnberger See – Chic sports and historical mysteries
The Starnberger See is nicknamed the “bathtub of Munich” for a simple reason: people swim, paddle, and lounge here. Just 30–40 min from the center, you can alternate between paddle, sailing, and lounging on the lawns, before tracing the thread of history linked to the enigmatic fate of Louis II.
Do you love escapes by the water? Also check out these easy and charming getaways, perfect for varying your pleasures between lakes and shores… and if the sea calls to you, these getaway ideas for Le Touquet.
Therme Erding – The XXL spa that wins everyone over
About 40 min northeast, Therme Erding ticks all the boxes for aquatic happiness: abundant pools, thematic saunas, tropical waves, and family areas. In winter, it’s a cocoon; in summer, a refreshing playground.
Perfect for spontaneous desires: a swimsuit, a towel… and off you go. Moreover, for those last-minute getaway desires at the last minute, it’s the ultimate relaxation plan.
Augsburg – UNESCO canals and secrets of the Fuggerei
Just 45 min by train, Augsburg unfolds a two-thousand-year history. Its UNESCO-listed canals tell a unique hydraulic epic, while the Fuggerei, the oldest social settlement in the world, intrigues with its exemplary simplicity.
Add Renaissance facades, varied museums, and charming cafes: urban cocktail guaranteed for a day that’s dense yet light.
Tegernsee – Alpine panorama and way of life
In about 55 min, head for Tegernsee, an alpine jewel where mountains and water reflect with flair. Morning hike, noon swim, cream cake in a traditional biergarten… the ideal pace.
Between bike paths, water sports, and renowned spas, this valley checks all the boxes for slow Bavarian living.
Ammersee – Silence, we breathe
Less frequented, the Ammersee lake (about 40–50 min) cultivates authenticity. Follow the paths along the water, take a gentle cruise, and stop by Herrsching for an artisanal ice cream or a coffee facing the waves.
A nature break, without fuss, where even your step counter seems to move in slow motion.
Abbey of Andechs – Benedictine view and monk’s beer
Perched above the Ammersee, the abbey of Andechs (about 45 min) rewards the climb with a vast view, a bright baroque sanctuary… and an artisan beer brewed on-site by the monks.
The winning combo? Hiking from Herrsching, visiting the church, then stopping at the Biergarten to seal the alliance of the spiritual and the convivial.
Freising – Weihenstephan, the eldest of breweries
North of Munich (40 min), Freising flaunts its charms: medieval streets, a baroque cathedral, and above all, the world’s oldest brewery, Weihenstephan (1040). A malty pilgrimage that pairs perfectly with a stroll on the cathedral hill.
Student atmosphere, sunny terraces, and brewing history: a day with a light foam.
Buchheim Museum in Bernried – Expressionism with feet in the water
Set on the shore of Starnberger See (45 min), the Buchheim Museum surprises with its bold architecture and expressionist collection. The large windows serve as living paintings on the lake and the surrounding paths.
Ideal for an outing that blends culture and fresh air. Have kids on board? Bring along some reading material: this selection of children’s comics will keep them entertained on the journey.
Wasserburg am Inn – Medieval town embraced by the river
About 50 min, Wasserburg am Inn snuggles into a loop of the Inn like a jewel in its setting. Pastel facades, arcades, cobblestones, and Gothic silhouettes create a cinematic backdrop.
You can happily lose yourself there, stop for a coffee, photograph the reflections on the water… Guaranteed change of scenery, without leaving Bavaria.
Wildpark Poing – Face to face with European wildlife
Head east in 40 min for a forest walk at Wildpark Poing. Here, deer, lynx, wolves, and wild boars roam in semi-freedom along an educational and playful path.
A must for families, especially if you combine animal observation with a playground… and some well-chosen snacks.
Kloster Schäftlarn – Baroque by the Isar
Just 30 min from Munich, Kloster Schäftlarn welcomes you into the calm of a baroque monastery situated by the Isar. The detour is worth it for both the church and the shaded Biergarten, very popular among locals.
Perfect for a mini-escape in the late afternoon: prayer for the beauty of the place, and a toast for conviviality.
Perlacher Forst – The forest, city style
Need an express nature bath? Just 20 min from the center, Perlacher Forst offers paths for walking, biking, or jogging that smells of pine. You can escape there for an hour, for a picnic, for a big breath of fresh air.
A green door just a stone’s throw from the southern districts, when the call of the open sea can’t wait for the weekend.
Practical bonus – Small tips for big ideas
Regional trains will take you to your destination, often with direct connections. To fuel your inspiration throughout the seasons, check out these ideas for easy getaways. And if one morning, the desire for elsewhere seizes you unexpectedly, these last-minute deals come just in time.
