Munich’s Greatest Family Day Trip Destinations

Munich is a vibrant city that offers plenty of opportunities for families to explore and create lasting memories. From world-class museums and lush parks to traditional beer gardens and historical landmarks, there’s no shortage of activities to keep kids and parents entertained. However, suppose you’re looking to venture beyond the city limits. In that case, you’ll find that the surrounding areas of Bavaria are brimming with charming towns, breathtaking natural landscapes, and family-friendly destinations near Munich that make for perfect day trips.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or a blend of both, the region around Munich has something to delight every family member. Imagine embarking on a scenic drive through the Bavarian Alps, exploring medieval castles straight out of fairytales, or picnicking in lush meadows surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. These family day trips not only provide a welcome change of pace from the city but also offer invaluable opportunities for quality family time and the chance to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

In this guide, I’ve curated the best kid-friendly travel destinations from Munich, each offering a unique and family-friendly experience. From charming lakeside towns and historic villages to awe-inspiring natural wonders and exhilarating outdoor activities, there’s something here to captivate every age group. Get ready to discover the hidden gems that make Bavaria such a renowned and beloved destination for families worldwide.

And if you were looking to travel in the beautiful Bavarian surroundings sans car, here is a blog post about the Top Munich Day Trips by Train that lists many gluten-free restaurant options.

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Tegernsee is a picturesque lake surrounded by charming villages and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a family day trip. Getting to Tegernsee is easy whether you’re traveling by car or public transportation. By car, it’s approximately a one-hour drive south of Munich, following the A8 Autobahn towards Salzburg and taking the exit at Holzkirchen to reach Tegernsee. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from Munich’s main station (Hauptbahnhof) to Tegernsee, which also takes about an hour and offers scenic views along the way.

Once there, the lake offers many activities: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the crystal-clear waters, simply relax by the lake with a picnic or hike the nearby Wallberg for breathtaking panoramic views.

Towering at an impressive 1,723 meters (5,650 feet), Wallberg offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic Bavarian Alps, pristine alpine lakes, and lush meadows that are perfect for a picnic lunch.

A day trip to Chiemsee, often referred to as the “Bavarian Sea” is a delightful escape for families looking to explore nature, history, and adventure. Located about 1.5 hours from Munich by car or an hour by train from Munich’s main station (Hauptbahnhof) to Prien am Chiemsee, this picturesque lake offers a variety of activities that cater to all ages.

The highlight of the trip is a visit to Herrenchiemsee, one of King Ludwig II’s grand palaces, situated on Herreninsel. A short and scenic boat ride from Prien takes you to the island, where you can tour the opulent palace, stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, and learn about its fascinating history. Kids will love the boat ride and exploring the expansive grounds.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby Fraueninsel, a smaller island known for its charming Benedictine monastery and quaint village. With its combination of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and family-friendly activities, a trip to Chiemsee and Herrenchiemsee is a must-see adventure for visitors from Munich.

Blomberg, located in the beautiful Bavarian region, is a fantastic destination for families with kids seeking outdoor adventure and fun. Just about an hour’s drive from Munich, Blomberg offers a variety of activities that will delight visitors of all ages.

The main attractions include the thrilling Blomberg-Blitz summer toboggan run, which offers an exhilarating ride down the mountainside, and the Blomberg Climbing Forest, where kids and adults can test their skills on various ropes courses amidst the trees.

In the winter, Blomberg transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. After a day of excitement, families can enjoy a relaxing hike along the scenic trails, taking in the breathtaking views of the Alps. Nearby, the town of Bad Tölz offers charming streets, thermal baths, and additional dining options, making it a great place to unwind after a day on the mountain. With its mix of adventure, natural beauty, and nearby attractions, Blomberg is an ideal spot for a family day trip from Munich.

Achensee, often called the “Tyrolean Sea,” is a stunning alpine lake in Austria that offers a perfect family day trip from Munich, with travel time around 1.5 hours by car.

The crystal-clear waters and majestic mountain backdrop provide a scenic setting for various activities. Families can enjoy swimming, sailing, and windsurfing on the lake, while the surrounding area offers fantastic hiking and biking trails suitable for all ages.

One of the main attractions is the Rofan Cable Car, which takes you up to breathtaking viewpoints and accessible hiking paths. Kids will love the Achensee Steam Cog Railway, which provides a nostalgic and fun way to experience the region.

Additionally, the nearby Achensee Adventure Park offers climbing and zip-lining activities that are sure to thrill. After a day of adventure, families can relax in the charming villages around the lake, enjoying local cuisine and hospitality. With its blend of water sports, mountain adventures, and family-friendly attractions, Achensee is a delightful destination for a memorable day trip.

A visit to Kufstein, Austria, offers a delightful mix of history, nature, and family-friendly activities, making it an excellent day trip from Munich. Just over an hour’s drive from Munich, or a comfortable train journey of about 1.5 hours, Kufstein welcomes visitors with its charming medieval ambiance and stunning alpine backdrop.

The highlight of any trip to Kufstein is the majestic Kufstein Fortress, perched high above the town. Families can explore the well-preserved fortress, enjoy panoramic views, and learn about the region’s history through interactive exhibits. Kids will particularly love the fortress’s underground rock tunnels and the impressive Heldenorgel, the world’s largest open-air organ.

Beyond the fortress, the scenic Inn River offers lovely walking paths, and nearby, the Kaisertal Valley provides excellent hiking opportunities in a serene natural setting. The nearby Riedel Glass Factory offers fascinating tours where families can watch glassblowers at work and even participate in glassmaking workshops. With its rich history, engaging activities, and beautiful surroundings, Kufstein is a perfect destination for a family day trip from Munich.

LEGOLAND Germany in Günzburg is a dream destination for families with kids, offering a world of creativity, adventure, and fun. Located about 1.5 hours from Munich by car or train, LEGOLAND is a fantastic day trip that promises to captivate the imagination of children and adults alike.

The park boasts many themed areas and rides, such as the thrilling roller coasters in the Adventure Land, the captivating Miniland with its intricate LEGO replicas of famous European landmarks, and the Pirate Land where young adventurers can embark on exciting quests. Kids can also engage in hands-on activities, building their own LEGO creations and enjoying interactive shows.

The park’s unique combination of rides, shows, and LEGO-themed attractions ensures there’s something for every member of the family. With plenty of dining options and dedicated play areas, a visit to LEGOLAND Germany guarantees an unforgettable day of fun and excitement for the entire family.

A visit to Schliersee and Spitzingsee offers a perfect family-friendly day trip into the heart of Bavaria’s natural beauty. Located just about an hour from Munich by car or train, Schliersee is a picturesque lake surrounded by the stunning Bavarian Alps.

Families can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, boating, and picnicking by the lake. A visit to the Markus Wasmeier Open Air Museum is a must, where kids can explore historic Bavarian farmhouses and learn about traditional crafts.

A short drive or bus ride from Schliersee takes you to Spitzingsee, another beautiful alpine lake. Here, families can hike on well-marked trails that cater to different levels of difficulty, enjoy a scenic cable car ride up to the summit for breathtaking views, or have fun at the adventure playgrounds.

In winter, the area transforms into a family-friendly skiing and sledding paradise. With its blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and easy access from Munich, Schliersee and Spitzingsee provide a fantastic day out for families looking to explore the Bavarian countryside.

Just under 2 hours from Munich, the storybook city of Salzburg makes for an enchanting family getaway. Kids will be delighted to explore the birthplace of Mozart and filming locations from The Sound of Music. Start in the Altstadt (Old Town), wandering the narrow medieval lanes and admiring the impressive Salzburg Cathedral and Residenz fountains. Don’t miss the funicular up to the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views.

The Salzburg Museum has great interactive exhibits on local history that kids enjoy. Just outside town, the salt mines at Berchtesgaden offer a thrilling underground tour experience complete with harrowing slides that are a huge hit with all ages. Descend deep into the Bavarian mountains and explore ancient tunnels. Learn about centuries-old salt extraction techniques and marvel at the dazzling underground chambers.

Nature lovers can spend the afternoon hiking in nearby Hellbrun Park’s whimsical trick fountains or cable car up the Untersberg mountain. With castles, palaces, and the breathtaking alpine scenery of Bavaria so close by, you can easily extend your Salzburg trip with more family adventures.

For the Gluten Free traveler – this post provides some restaurants in Salzburg with gluten-free options.

No family trip to Bavaria would be complete without visiting the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, an approximate 1.5-hour drive from Munich.

This 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace, perched dramatically atop a rugged hill, looks plucked straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Kids will be enchanted as they approach the towering castle and cross the Pollat Gorge bridge, offering stunning valley views. Once inside, don’t miss exploring the lavish royal apartments, like the iconic Singer’s Hall with its vibrant Byzantine murals.

The nearby Hohenschwangau Castle, the childhood home of King Ludwig II, provides further insight into Bavarian royal life. After touring the castles, stretch your legs on one of the scenic hiking trails winding through the Pollat Gorge and past glistening alpine lakes like Schwansee. The charming village of Schwangau offers traditional Bavarian cuisine and the Museum of the Bavarian Kings for more cultural immersion.

Nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, the twin towns of Garmisch and Partenkirchen make for an ideal family getaway from Munich. This approximately 1.5-hour drive transports you to a wonderland of outdoor adventures and Bavarian alpine charm. Kids will delight in riding the Zugspitze cog railway to the highest peak in Germany, while hikers of all ages can tackle the scenic mountain trails. The lively pedestrian zones lined with frescoed homes and traditional shops invite aimless wandering and treats like apple strudel. For a more in-depth look at all the family-friendly activities, attractions, and insider tips for making the most of your Garmisch-Partenkirchen visit, read this detailed Garmisch-Partenkirchen post.

Which is your favorite Family Day Trip in Bavaria?