The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Munich

Munich is a city best experienced outdoors. In summer, the parks, beer gardens and terraces are full of life, while in winter, snow blankets the landscape and excursions to the Alps become an unforgettable experience. Whether you're touring the city on two wheels, exploring fairytale castles or discovering historic sites, here are some ideas for making the most of your trip in the great outdoors.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of German history, a visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp is a must-do experience. This was the first Nazi concentration camp and is now a memorial of great historical importance. Touring its facilities with an expert guide will allow you to learn the stories behind this place and reflect on the past. It is located just 30 minutes from Munich, making it an accessible and relevant excursion.

If there's one city that's perfect for getting around by bike, Munich is it. With more than 1,200 km of cycle paths, getting around on two wheels is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore its streets, squares and parks. A guided bike tour will take you to iconic places such as the Marienplatz, the English Garden or the Hofbräuhaus without rushing and enjoying the local atmosphere.

If nature is your thing, Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, is a must-see. At 2,962 metres high, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the Bavarian Alps and a variety of seasonal activities: hiking in summer and skiing in winter. Taking the cable car up and watching the landscape change as you ascend is an experience you won't forget.

Just a few hours from Munich, Neuschwanstein Castle looks like something out of a fairytale. Its architecture inspired Disney and its mountainous setting makes it a spectacular destination in any season. Nearby, Linderhof Palace impresses with its elegant gardens and Baroque opulence. Both castles offer the perfect getaway to connect with history and fantasy.

If you are fascinated by the Middle Ages, this tour is not to be missed. Harburg, with its 11th-century castle, seems frozen in time, while Rothenburg, with its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, is one of the most beautiful villages in Germany. Strolling through its streets is like travelling back in time and discovering the very essence of Bavaria.

Just a couple of hours from Munich, Salzburg is one of Austria's most elegant cities. Its historic city centre, a World Heritage Site, is full of baroque churches, palaces and charming squares. You can tour it on a private tour or by train, enjoying its historic cafés and the breathtaking views from the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

If you're looking for a fun and comfortable way to get around the city, a Segway tour is the perfect option. In a short time, you can visit the main sights, such as the Odeonsplatz, the Maximilianeum or the Viktualienmarkt, without getting tired. Moreover, getting around on a Segway will allow you to enjoy the atmosphere of the city in a different way.

To round off the day, there's nothing better than a relaxing time in the English Garden, one of the largest city parks in the world. Here you can have a picnic, hire a boat on the lake or even watch the surfers brave the waves of the Eisbach River. If you feel like it, you can also enjoy a beer in the famous Chinese Tower, surrounded by a relaxed and authentic Munich atmosphere.