Gather your backpack and sun cream because the lakes near Munich are calling for a day of relaxation and adventure!
If you've been tramping around the city centre, ticking off historical sights, it's probably time for a break.
The Starnberger See near Munich with the Alps in the background
Just imagine dipping your toes into the cool waters of the Starnberger See, Munich's closest neighbouring lake, or marvel at the breath-taking beauty of the Eibsee at the base of the Zugspitze.
Admire the jaw-dropping Alpine backgrounds as you relax by the lakeside with your favourite book and enjoy the gentle embrace of the sun's warmth.
Whether you're a hiking enthusiast or a casual wanderer, you'll find some interesting walking trails weaving around these incredible lakes.
Trust us, your next visit to Munich won't be complete without a delightful day spent at one of these lakes. So, lace-up your walking shoes and let's get going!
Ahoy there! Escape the bustling centre of Munich and venture out to the beautiful Lake Starnberg, also known as Starnberger See.
Just a stone's throw away from Munich, Lake Starnberg is the ideal swimming and sunbathing destination on a warm summer day. Don't miss experiencing the traditional beer gardens dotted along the shore, where you can kick back with your mates and enjoy a pint after taking a refreshing dip.
Getting to Starnberger See is a breeze. Simply hop on the S6 train from Munich central station towards Starnberg (not Starnberg Nord) and you'll arrive at your destination in no time. If you're feeling extra adventurous, why not embark on a biking tour to the lake?
The town of Starnberg at the Starnberger See near Munich
Once you've arrived at Starnberger See, there's plenty to do and see. Take advantage of the various water-related activities, such as windsurfing, sailing or just laying back for a leisurely swim. You might even taking the ferry to explore some of the other villages and catch the stunning scenery from a different perspective.
So go on, pack your sunscreen and swimming gear, and treat yourself to an unforgettable day at Starnberger See. You'll be glad you did!
More detailed information about the Starnberger See
Ah, the beautiful lakes near Munich! Let's talk about the Ammersee, one of the most stunning spots to visit. Just 40 kilometres southwest of Munich, it serves as a fantastic day trip for anyone looking to enjoy an escape from city life.
To get to Ammersee by public transport, simply hop on the S-Bahn S8 to Herrsching. Not only is Ammersee the third largest lake in Bavaria, covering an area of 46.6 square kilometres, but it’s also an excellent choice for a variety of activities.
The Ammersee lake near Munich
Picture yourself swimming in its clear waters or embarking on a biking tour to really soak up the picturesque surroundings. The lake offers a range of water sports, ensuring there's something for everyone – from novice swimmers to experienced water-skiers.
Fancy a memorable meal with a view? Visit one of the many delightful beer gardens dotted along the lake's edge, where you can relish traditional Bavarian fare, whilst appreciating the magnificent scenery.
Additionally, you can catch a ferry service to explore other parts of the lake with ease. Don't forget to check out the nearby Andechs Monastery. It’s an ideal pairing with a trip to Ammersee as it presents a unique opportunity to try the famous beer brewed by monks while soaking up panoramic lake views from atop the hill.
In summary, a day trip from Munich to Ammersee is a must. With impressive water sports, picturesque beer gardens, accessible ferry services, and extraordinary attractions like the Andechs Monastery, your visit to this splendid Munich lake will surely be a memorable one. So go ahead, pack your bags and experience the best of Ammersee!
More detailed information about the Ammersee
If you're looking for a picturesque day trip destination from Munich, look no further than Lake Eibsee.
This stunning Alpine lake boasts crystal-clear water alongside breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains (which include Germany's highest).
The Zugspitze from the Eibsee lake
The Eibsee is known for its diverse scenery, featuring lush forests, rocky paths, and even a relatively flat loop trail that provides incredible views of the turquoise water.
Getting to Lake Eibsee from Munich via public transport is quite convenient.
Hop on a train heading towards Garmisch-Partenkirchen; once there, you can take the local bus or the Zugspitze train to the Eibsee stop.
The journey should take about two-and-a-half hours in total, placing this destination well within reach for a day trip.
There is no ferry service as such at the Eibsee, although a small motorboat does do tours of the lake that last around 20 minutes.
The calm, clear water makes for an enchanting journey, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to capture some unforgettable photos.
Equipment for stand-up paddling is also available for rental.
As for nearby tourist destinations, the cable car for the Zugspitze - the highest mountain in the country - leaves from close to the Eibsee railway station. You'll get some stunning views from the trip and once you reach the summit.
The Eibsee lake is also situated just 10 kilometres southwest of the mountain town Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
After spending time soaking in the relaxing atmosphere around Lake Eibsee, you might want to visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen to explore its quaint streets and delightful Bavarian architecture before heading back to Munich.
The lovely Kochelsee is only 70km south of Munich, which makes it perfect for an afternoon getaway or even a full day trip.
If you fancy getting out on the water, then there are options for windsurfing and stand-up paddling.
But if you prefer to stay dry, there is a good network of hiking trails around the lake which offer views across the lake to the majestic peaks of the Bavarian Alps.
View of the Kochelsee
Getting to Kochelsee from Munich is a breeze, thanks to the convenient public transport options. Catch a train to Kochel am See; from the Kochel station, a short bus ride or a walk will take you to the lake.
Don't forget to explore the equally picturesque Walchensee nearby, which together with Kochelsee, form the scenic two-lake region in this part of the southern Alps.
Once you're at Kochelsee, keep an eye out for the local ferry services that let you cruise and appreciate the true beauty of the area from a different perspective.
If you are interested in art, take some time to investigate the Franz Marc Museum in Kochel. This museum is just a stone's throw from the lake. It showcases the works of the renowned German Expressionist artist, part of the Blaue Reiter group of painters.
More detailed information about the Kochelsee
Another great retreat from the big city experience is Lake Tegernsee. This idyllic lake offers visitors natural beauty and pristine water quality. Surrounded by majestic mountains like the 1722-meter high Wallberg, you'll find this charming lake to be one of the cleanest in Southern Germany.
View over the Tegernsee lake in Bavaria
The communities of Gmund, Bad Wiessee, Kreuth, Rottach-Egern, and Tegernsee are brimming with history and charm.
Getting to Lake Tegernsee from Munich is not a problem on public transport. Simply take the frequent BOB (Bayerische Oberlandbahn) train from Munich central station (Hauptbahnhof) to Tegernsee station, and you'll arrive at your destination in about an hour.
Once you've arrived, you'll have various options to explore the lake. Hop on one of the many ferries that offer leisurely rides around the lake, allowing you to soak in the stunning views and disembark at the different villages.
Lake Tegernsee isn't just about sightseeing, though. There are plenty of swimming area or maybe try your hand at sailing, windsurfing or stand-up paddleboarding?
If you prefer a more land-based adventure, consider one of the numerous hiking and cycling routes around the lake.
Don't forget to try the local beer, which comes from a brewery at the town of Tegernsee itself.
More detailed information about the Tegernsee
As Bavaria's largest and the third-largest lake in Germany, spanning an impressive 80 km², the Chiemsee is often referred to as the "Bavarian Sea." One of the cleanest swimming lakes in the region, it was created around 10,000 years ago during the Ice Age.
The Chiemsee lake with the Alps in the background
Getting to Chiemsee from Munich is easy enough using public transport. The most convenient option is to take the regional train from Munich central station (Hauptbahnhof) towards Salzburg, and alight at Prien am Chiemsee. The journey should take a little over an hour and, from the station, it's around a 30-minute walk to the lakeshore.
Considering its size, a superb way to explore Lake Chiemsee is by taking a boat ride. Excursion boats offer round trips around the lake, visiting its main attractions, including:
If you're yearning for outdoor activities, Chiemsee will not disappoint. You can enjoy swimming, sailing or stand-up paddling on the lake.
Or, if you'd prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking and cycling trails in the area.
More detailed information about the Chiemsee