The Bavarian Alps and the foothill region around Munich offer an incredible range of winter experiences: frozen lakes, mighty summit views, fairy-tale castles, relaxing thermal spas, and charming towns. This guide presents 50 winter day trips from Munich. All destinations are sorted by theme so you can quickly find the winter experience that fits your mood:
2. Nymphenburg Palace (Munich): Baroque façades, expansive palace gardens, and frozen canals create a fairy-tale winter setting, ideal for walks and photography.
Distance from Munich: 0 mi – right in the city
Duration: 1–3 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very easy – public transport, bike, car, on foot)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐ (moderate – depends on snow)
3. Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau Castles (Schwangau/Füssen): Germany’s most famous castle turns into a true winter fairy tale. Right next to it: Hohenschwangau Castle and the Alpsee. (more information is available here)
Distance from Munich: 80 mi (2 h)
Duration: 8-10 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐ (far, requires transfer)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (maximum – especially in January/February)
4. Linderhof Palace (Ettal): One of King Ludwig II’s smaller palaces, surrounded by a snow-covered park and ornate façades.
Distance from Munich: 80 mi (2 h)
Duration: 8-10 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐ (car recommended)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (true winter wonderland)
5. Herrenchiemsee Palace (Chiemsee): Ludwig II’s island palace – winter brings quiet lakeside paths and beautiful snowy photo spots.
Distance from Munich: approx. 55 mi (1.5 h)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐ (car + boat)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (serene winter atmosphere)
6. Burghausen & Castle Complex: The world’s longest castle stretches across a ridge above the old town and hosts its own Christmas market in December. (more on this here)
7. Andechs Monastery: Famous for its pilgrimage church and brewery – wonderfully quiet in winter. Enjoy snowy fields with Alpine views.
Distance from Munich: approx. 25 mi (45 min)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car, bus, or S-Bahn)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐ (lovely on sunny, snowy days)
2. Winter Lakes & Scenic Walks
Ideal for peaceful winter days, easy walks, photography, and relaxed moments in nature.
8. Lake Tegernsee: One of Bavaria’s most beautiful lakes – winter brings calm shore paths, snowy peaks, and cozy cafés. (more information is available here)
9. Lake Schliersee: A classic winter escape with lakeside promenades, mountain views, and access to winter hikes like Spitzingsee. (discover more information)
10. Spitzingsee: A go-to for winter hikers, sledders and skiers – Spitzingsee is especially atmospheric when the lake freezes and the surrounding trails are blanketed in snow.
11. Lake Eibsee (Garmisch-Partenkirchen): Crystal-clear water, snowy forests and a photogenic 4–5 mile loop below the Zugspitze – Eibsee is perfect for winter hikes and striking mountain shots. (discover trip info)
12. Königssee (Berchtesgadener Land) & Hintersee (Ramsau): Königssee turns especially peaceful in winter – clear water, the St. Bartholomä peninsula and the Jennerbahn offer varied activities. Nearby Hintersee’s Zauberwald and circular trail are ideal for short, magical winter walks. (more information is available here)
Distance from Munich: approx. 93 mi (2.5 h)
Duration: 10-12 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐ (longer drive; car recommended)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (fairy-tale mountain scenery, heavy snow potential)
13. Chiemsee: The “Bavarian Sea” in winter – shoreline walks, island views of Herren- and Frauenchiemsee and occasional ice on shallow flats create atmospheric photo opportunities.
Distance from Munich: approx. 56 mi (1.5 h)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or regional train)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (calm lake landscapes, winter lighting)
14. Starnberger See: A large lake very close to Munich – the promenade and Alpine outlook make for pleasant winter walks and quick getaways.
15. Kochelsee & Walchensee: Both lakes are ideal bases for shoreline walks and starting points for winter hikes into the Walchensee region – dramatic views and crisp mountain air await.
Ideal for active winter days with panoramic views and a mix of easy to moderate routes.
16. Partnach Gorge(Garmisch-Partenkirchen): Frozen waterfalls, icy rock walls and narrow winter paths make the Partnach Gorge one of the most spectacular winter outings – and a dream for photographers.
Distance from Munich: approx. 56 mi (1.5 h)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (easy – car or train to Garmisch, short walk)
17. Wallberg Winter Hike (Tegernsee): A winter classic with sweeping views over Lake Tegernsee, snowy forests and the Alps. The trail is well maintained, and a toboggan run adds extra fun.
Distance from Munich: approx. 37 mi (1 h)
Duration: 4–6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car recommended; cable car optional)
18. Hirschberg (Tegernsee): Hirschberg offers both rewarding winter hikes and one of the region’s well-known toboggan routes. With steady inclines and open views, it’s a great option for sporty winter days.
Distance from Munich: approx. 37 mi (1–1.25 h)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or bus; ascent mostly on foot)
19. Jochberg (Kochelsee): A beloved winter hike with gorgeous vistas over Lake Kochel, Lake Walchen and the surrounding Alps. Straightforward route, rewarding summit.
20. Herzogstand (Walchensee): A true Bavarian winter classic: snow-covered paths, sweeping views of Lake Walchen and the Alps, and optional toboggan sections depending on conditions.
Distance from Munich: approx. 50 mi (1.5 h)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car recommended; cable car optional)
21. Unternberg (Ruhpolding): Unternberg is known for its variety — winter hikes, sledding slopes and snowshoe terrain make it a versatile day out for families and outdoor lovers.
Distance from Munich: approx. 75 mi (2 h)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car recommended; cable car optional)
Whether you’re looking for sporty runs or family-friendly hills, these are the best tobogganing spots near Munich:
22. Wallberg Toboggan Run (Tegernsee): One of Bavaria’s most famous toboggan runs – long descents, a modern cable car, and unbeatable views of Lake Tegernsee.
Distance from Munich: approx. 37 mi (1 hour)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car recommended, cable car available)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (classic family favorite, snowy slopes)
23. Hörnle (Bad Kohlgrub): A beloved family mountain with well-groomed runs, gentle slopes, and panoramic views of the Alpine foothills.
28. Aueralm Trail (Garmisch-Partenkirchen): A gentle winter path perfect for kids and beginners. Tobogganing is possible, and the views of Zugspitze are stunning.
Distance from Munich: approx. 56 mi (1.5 hours)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train, short winter hike)
29. Eckbauer (Garmisch-Partenkirchen): Short, well-prepared toboggan runs combined with winter walks – ideal for families and children, with Alpspitze views.
Distance from Munich: approx. 56 mi (1.5 hours)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train, cable car optional)
The best ski areas within easy reach of Munich – suitable for beginners, families and experienced skiers alike.
30. Garmisch-Classic (Garmisch-Partenkirchen): A legendary ski area with wide slopes, Alpine vistas, and routes for all skill levels – ideal for a full winter sports day.
Distance from Munich: approx. 56 mi (1.5 hours)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train, gondola from town)
31. Zugspitze Glacier Ski Area (Garmisch-Partenkirchen): Germany’s highest ski area offers guaranteed snow, glacier views, and long runs – a bucket-list winter experience.
Distance from Munich: approx. 60 mi (1.5–2 hours)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train, cogwheel train or cable car to summit)
35. Hochfelln (Ruhpolding): A panoramic peak known as the “balcony of the Chiemgau” – offering sweeping winter views over Lake Chiemsee and the northern Alps.
Distance from Munich: approx. 52 mi (1.25 hours)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car; cable car operates in winter)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (broad vistas, snowy ridges)
36. Fellhorn / Kanzelwand (Oberstdorf): A well-developed Allgäu ski area with modern lift systems, varied pistes and spectacular high-Alpine views – excellent for both beginners and advanced skiers.
Distance from Munich: approx. 99 mi (2–2.5 hours)
Duration: 8-10 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train; mountain lifts)
37. Nebelhorn (Oberstdorf): Famous for its long runs and panoramic ridge views over the Allgäu Alps – a top pick for experienced skiers and photographers.
Distance from Munich: approx. 99 mi (2–2.5 hours)
Duration: 8-10 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train; cable car to summit)
39. Götschen & Jenner (Berchtesgaden): Two neighbouring lifts and slopes offering great views of Watzmann and Königssee – well suited for families and intermediate skiers.
If you’re craving warmth, relaxation and Alpine views, these thermal spas are perfect for grey winter days.
40. Therme Erding: One of the largest thermal spas in Europe, offering countless indoor and outdoor pools, slides, extensive sauna areas and winter wellness zones. Perfect for a relaxing day in any weather.
Distance from Munich: approx. 22 mi (40 minutes)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very easy – car or S-Bahn)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (cozy, warm & relaxing)
41. monte mare Seesauna (Tegernsee): Wellness right on the lakeshore, with panoramic saunas and outdoor pools overlooking Lake Tegernsee and the snow-covered Alps. Ideal for peaceful winter hours.
Distance from Munich: approx. 37 mi (1 hour)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train; parking available)
42. Kristall Therme Kochel am See: A thermal spa with indoor and outdoor pools, relaxing saunas and sweeping Alpine views. Especially enjoyable on crisp winter days.
Distance from Munich: approx. 47 mi (1.5 hours)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or bus; parking available)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (cozy, Alpine scenery)
43. Therme Bad Aibling: Thermal domes, saunas, massage treatments and wellness zones – ideal for a restful winter escape.
Distance from Munich: approx. 31 mi (50 minutes)
Duration: 4-6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very easy – car or train)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐ (cozy, mainly indoor)
44. Chiemgau Thermen (Bad Endorf): A spacious thermal and sauna complex near Lake Chiemsee, perfect for relaxation, spa treatments and family-friendly wellness.
45. RupertusTherme (Bad Reichenhall): A beautiful spa with indoor and outdoor pools, sauna areas and impressive Alpine views – ideal for a winter wellness escape from Munich.
46. Königliche Kristall-Therme (Schwangau): Panoramic saunas, thermal pools and a wellness zone with views of the Alps and Neuschwanstein Castle – a true winter highlight.
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (high – wellness with castle views)
7. Winter City Trips & Unique Places
Charming winter towns around Munich – ideal for culture, food and relaxed seasonal strolls.
47. Bad Tölz: A historic market street, colourful facades and inviting cafés make Bad Tölz a wonderfully atmospheric winter destination. Great for walks, photography and regional cuisine.
Distance from Munich: approx. 31 mi (50 minutes)
Duration: 4–6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very easy – car or train)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (cozy, Alpine backdrop)
48. Mittenwald: A picturesque village with artistic Lüftlmalerei facades, Alpine views and direct access to snow-covered winter trails. Perfect for old-town strolls and winter photography.
Distance from Munich: approx. 68 mi (1.5 hours)
Duration: 6-8 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (car or train; connection may be required)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (high – charming Alpine village atmosphere)
49. Rosenheim: A lively town with a historic centre, winter-lit squares and close proximity to Lake Chiemsee and the Alps.
Distance from Munich: approx. 37 mi (50 minutes)
Duration: 4–6 hours
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (very easy – car or train)
Winter feeling: ⭐⭐⭐ (moderate – more urban atmosphere)
50. Murnau am Staffelsee: A tranquil small town on Lake Staffelsee with a charming old town, arts and culture scene and access to peaceful winter trails around the lake.
Our conclusion: Bavaria’s winter regions offer the full spectrum of seasonal magic: fairytale castles and frozen lakes, snow-covered mountain panoramas, varied winter hikes, family-friendly toboggan runs and relaxing wellness oases. With these 50 handpicked ideas, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect winter adventure for your next trip from Munich.
Where are you planning to go on your next winter day trip? Share this guide with your favorite road trip buddies and leave us a comment below!
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