Related itineraries
Shorter Munich 3-day · Berlin + Hamburg 3-day · Rhine Valley 2-day
Frequently asked questions
Is 5 days enough to see Bavaria?
It's the sweet spot for first-time visitors.You can cover Munich's highlights, two classic day trips (Neuschwanstein, Salzburg), and one Alpine outing (Zugspitze or Berchtesgaden) without rushing.Less than 5 days means cutting the Alpine side-trips; more than 5 lets you add Regensburg, Würzburg, or Romantic Road destinations like Rothenburg.
What's the cheapest way to cover these Bavarian destinations?
The Bayern-Ticket (€34/day for 1 person + €9 per extra up to 5) covers all regional trains in Bavaria and Salzburg on weekdays from 09:00 and weekends all day.Perfect for Neuschwanstein, Zugspitze, and Salzburg day trips.Not valid on ICE, but all these destinations are served by regional trains.For the Munich→Salzburg ICE (1h 30) you can alternatively take a RE (2h 30) covered by the Bayern-Ticket.
Should I base myself in Munich or move hotels?
For 5 days, Munich as a single base works best.Unpack once, do daily round-trips.Munich Hbf is <2h from every major Bavarian attraction.Exceptions: if you want to experience Salzburg's nightlife, 1-2 nights in Salzburg is worthwhile.If you plan deep Alpine hiking, 1 night in Garmisch or Berchtesgaden saves train time.
Is the Salzburg day trip worth it from Munich?
Absolutely.ICE Munich → Salzburg direct is 1h 30min, €29-€49 Sparpreis if booked ahead.Salzburg Old Town is UNESCO-listed, Mozart's birthplace, Sound of Music filming locations, Hohensalzburg Fortress.A full day gets you everything.Technically Austria — passport not required for EU/UK/US/CA/AU/SG but carry ID.
What's the best time of year for Bavaria by train?
May-June and September-October for mild weather and full daylight.Oktoberfest crowds (mid-September to first Sunday in October) fill hotels at 3x prices — book 6 months ahead or avoid.December Christmas markets are magical but cold and dark.Neuschwanstein in winter is stunning but tower access may be limited; verify before travelling.
Do I need to book Neuschwanstein tickets in advance?
Yes, mandatory during peak season (April-October).Book via hohenschwangau.de 1-2 weeks ahead — slots sell out.Off-peak (November-March) you can sometimes buy at the ticket centre on arrival but still risk being turned away.Tour is strictly timed, 35 minutes, and you must be at the castle gate 5 minutes before your slot.