With the standard of living in Munich being so high, it’s easy to stay within the confines of the Bavarian capital for your whole trip. However, stepping outside the city’s borders can reveal unforgettable wonders you would otherwise be missing. Here are some of the best.
Altmühltal Valley Nature Park
If you really want to get out of the city and see some nature, the Altmühltal Valley Nature Park has some of the most stunning views in all of Bavaria. While the current flora and fauna can be savored on hiking trails, canoe trips or on the park’s world-class cycling tracks, this nature park also offers invaluable insight into the past. This is thanks to the fossil rich terrain which lead to the discovery of archaeoteryx and other Jurassic specimens.
Schloss Neuschwanstein
The Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein in German) is instantly recognizable from international blockbusters such as The Great Escape and Chity Chitty Bang Bang. As the inspiration for the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, this fairy-tale home was originally the dream of Bavarian king Ludwig II. After his death, it was opened to the public where even the lowliest of society can witness the grand halls and throne rooms. With up to 6,000 visiting in summer, bear in mind the possibility of queues.
Salzburg
Staying in Bavaria, but leaving Germany, crossing the Viennese border to Salzburg is close enough for a day trip from Munich. The home of Mozart, Salzburg is a UNESCO world heritage site. Exploring the exquisite architecture under gorgeous Alpine landscapes, it’s easy to see why.
Nuremberg
Steeped in heritage it’s too easy to associate this city with mid-20th century history. From the Middle Ages to the Napoleonic Wars and beyond, Nuremberg has been the action center for many eras. You can visit for some historic sight-seeing, but it is equally renowned for its many museums, performing arts venues and being home to delicious cuisine (such as the Nuremberg bratwurst).
Dachau
While savoring the current delights of the region is important, it is equally important to remember lessons from the past. The Dacahu concentration camp was the location for some of the most harrowing events in any nation’s history. A day trip here from Munich is both a somber reminder and fascinating glimpse into the limits of humanity.
Berchtesgaden
While there is some Nazi heritage in this Alpine municipality, this region is more important for its incredible views. If you are a studied climber, there are many routes to explore. For the less adventurous, there are some tamer hikes. For the pure lazy, there are mountain resorts with open fires, incredible cuisine and plenty of options for R&R.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
An impeccably well-preserved Medieval township, Rothenberg is pretty much the definition of ‘picturesque’. The sights are impressive, but there is much to cram in even on a single day-trip. With museums, taverns and beautiful hikes, there’s a lot to do year-round. However, as it is home to the Christmas Museum, it’s particularly spectacular come winter-time.
While Munich could be the homebase for some memorable day trip excursions, there is much to do if you decide to stay in the city. With the Hop on Hop Off Munich City Tour offer, K+K Hotel am Harras could be for you. With breakfast, drink offers and much more, it’s a great deal and the best way to see as much of the city as you can, even on short stays.
