Last summer felt extra special for us. We set out on a six-week family trip, a plan that came together for a few reasons. I had just left my “regular” job to start my own travel business, which finally gave me the freedom to take a longer adventure. (A nice bonus: every new place I explore becomes something I can later share with my clients.) It also felt like the right moment, since it’s probably the last summer we’ll have the chance to travel together for so long before the girls get busy with school internships and college applications.

Our adventure began in Munich, Germany, where we spent five days exploring the city and taking day trips to some incredible nearby spots. If you’re planning your own visit, there are many wonderful things to do in Munich in summer; from city walks and museums to refreshing lakes and alpine escapes.

Here are a few of our favorite experiences and day trips that made Munich such a memorable part of our family adventure.

A Guided Tour of Munich’s Landmarks (2 Hours)

One of my favorite ways to start a trip in a new city is with a guided tour. It gives you context for the history and landmarks, and everything clicks later when you explore on your own.

Our guided tour covered iconic sights like:

• Munich Residence – Once the home of Bavarian rulers until 1918.
  
• Hofgarten (Royal Garden) – A peaceful green space beside the palace; sometimes there’s spontaneous music or dance in the central pavilion.
  
• Kriegerdenkmal (Warrior Memorial) – Honoring Munich’s World War I soldiers.
  
• Theatine Church – Stunning Late Baroque architecture at Odeonsplatz.
  
• Frauenkirche (Cathedral) – Famous for its twin towers and panoramic city views from the top.
  

Watching the Glockenspiel at Marienplatz

Another unforgettable moment was watching the Glockenspiel at Marienplatz. We arrived a bit early to secure a good spot and joined the crowd as the tower’s bells rang out and the 32 life-size figures moved through scenes from Munich’s history. The joy was contagious; standing in the square with everyone looking up and sharing the same excitement felt magical. I’m not sure if I enjoyed the show itself more or the shared experience of the crowd, probably both.

The Eisbach Wave: Munich’s Coolest Surprise

One unexpected highlight was the Eisbach Wave, where the Eisbach River flows into the English Garden. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but as soon as we arrived, we were captivated. Surfers rode the tiny urban wave with skill and style, while a crowd gathered around to watch. There was something almost meditative about it, standing there and just watching the rhythm of the water and the surfers’ effortless balance. We lingered far longer than planned, completely mesmerized. It’s one of those unique things to do in Munich in summer that perfectly captures the city’s creative and outdoorsy spirit.

Lenbachhaus Museum: Art to see in Munich

Munich is full of museums, but with only a short time in the city, I wanted to choose just one. The Lenbachhaus was perfect. It’s best known for its collection of Blue Rider works, a movement founded in Munich by Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc that helped shape Expressionism and early abstract art. Seeing these pieces in the city where the movement began added an extra layer of meaning. The museum is also very manageable, about an hour and a half is enough to enjoy it without feeling rushed, which made it ideal for our family.

Coffee, Ice Cream, and Places to Stay in Munich

Coffee: Specialty Coffee Munich — just around the corner from Marienplatz.
Ice Cream: Allabeni Ice Cream — tucked into Lehel near the Eisbach.
 

Hotels:

• Hotel München Palace – cozy, family-owned boutique experience with individually designed rooms full of local character.
• The Charles Hotel – near the Old Botanical Garden, provided spacious rooms and stylish luxury right in the heart of the city.
• LOUIS Hotel – perfect for those who love modern design and a central location.

Tip: Booking through a travel advisor can get perks like free breakfast or room upgrades at no extra cost.

Getting Around Munich – Public Transport Tips

Munich’s public transportation is excellent. The MVV app is great for planning routes, buying tickets, or getting day passes and family passes. You can explore the city efficiently without a car, ideal for families or anyone who prefers walking and transit.

If you’d like help planning a personalized Munich itinerary including hotels, day trips, and experiences, you can start by filling out my Travel Planning Intake Form.

Day Trip Adventure: Eibsee and Zugspitze

One of the highlights of our Munich trip was a day spent at Eibsee and Zugspitze. Just over an hour from Munich, it felt like stepping into a world of mountains, forests, and sparkling lakes. We hiked the 7.5 km loop around Eibsee, marveling at the crystal-clear water and the towering peak of Zugspitze above. We picnicked on the shore, watching other visitors swim or paddleboard in the cold summer water. Later, we took the cable car up to the summit of Zugspitze, soaking in panoramic views of alpine peaks stretching across Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland.

The day ended in Garmisch, a charming alpine town that feels lifted straight from a storybook. We wandered through quiet streets, stopped at a small garden honoring Michael Ende, the author of The NeverEnding Story, and enjoyed an early dinner before the dramatic downpour as we drove back to Munich.

More Day Trips for Next Time

We also spent a relaxing day at Strandberger Lake, Bavaria’s second-largest lake, just a short drive from Munich. It was my first time trying SUP, and while the tricky turns sent me tumbling into the chilly water more than once, it was completely worth it. We stayed until sunset, soaking in the peaceful summer atmosphere.

If you’re planning a trip and wondering about more things to do in Munich in summer, consider adding day trips like Neuschwanstein Castle or Salzburg, both promise magical scenery, great food, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy Bavaria’s beautiful landscapes.

Planning a trip to Munich or Bavaria? Feel free to visit my Contact page or fill out my Travel Planning Intake Form if you’d like help with hotels, itinerary planning, or day trip recommendations tailored to your travel style.

Related City Escapes

If you enjoy exploring cities at your own pace, you might also like our guides to:

• Top Things to Do in Madrid in 2 Days – Quick city highlights, markets, and local eats.
  
• A Family Trip to London – Museums, parks, and kid-friendly adventures.