Things To Do
in Murnau am Staffelsee
Murnau am Staffelsee sits on the northern edge of Bavaria, framed by the shimmering Staffelsee and the rolling Bavarian foothills. The town serves as a gateway to the Murnauer Moos, one of Central Europe’s richest wetlands, offering wildlife watching and serene trails. It carries a storied past as an artist colony and a starting point for scenic lake and mountain routes.
In summer and autumn, it’s a peaceful Bavarian retreat with charming taverns, easy day trips to Munich, and access to stunning alpine scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Marktstraße, where charming buildings and local shops line the streets. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring a traditional Bavarian pastry and a steaming cup of coffee. As you stroll through the historic center, take in the vibrant atmosphere and the stunning architecture that reflects the town's rich heritage.
In the afternoon, visit the Franz Marc Museum, dedicated to the famous painter born in Murnau. Explore the fascinating exhibits showcasing his works and the artists of the Blaue Reiter movement, and enjoy the museum's scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the Staffelsee to admire the serene lake and its breathtaking mountain backdrop.
As evening approaches, dine at a traditional Bavarian restaurant, where you can indulge in local specialties such as Weisswurst and pretzels. After dinner, consider joining a guided evening stroll around the town, which may include stories about Murnau's history and folklore. Conclude your night with a visit to a cozy pub to enjoy a locally brewed beer.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk along the shores of Staffelsee, where the morning mist creates an enchanting atmosphere over the water. Take your time to observe the local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings as you breathe in the fresh air. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy on the lakeside, surrounded by beautiful views of the mountains.
Continue your exploration of Staffelsee with a boat rental, allowing you to experience the lake from a different perspective. Glide across the water, stopping at various points to take photographs and enjoy the stunning views of the Alps in the distance. After your boat adventure, unwind on the beach area, soaking up the sun or taking a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot by the lake to enjoy a picnic dinner, complete with local cheeses, sausages, and bread. The vibrant colors of the sunset reflecting on the water will create a perfect backdrop for your meal. Afterward, take a leisurely evening walk along the lake, listening to the soothing sounds of nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥐Snack or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and proximity to Munich
- Compact, walkable town with Bavarian charm
- Excellent access to outdoor activities and nature reserves
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities compared to bigger cities
- Smaller public transport network outside peak season
- Can be busy with tourists during peak summer months
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
- "Rechnung, bitte." - The bill, please.
Places to Visit in Murnau am Staffelsee
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waters, tranquil reflections, and the alpine backdrop—ideal for serene landscape shots.
Timber-framed houses and a 15th-century church provide classic Bavarian architectural scenes.
Elevated wooden paths through reed beds and wetlands—great for wildlife photography and wide-angle landscapes.
Castle-adjacent gardens with scenic views toward rolling hills and distant mountains.
Food in Murnau am Staffelsee
Murnau am Staffelsee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Roasted pork with crispy crackling, typically served with dumplings and red cabbage; a Bavarian staple found in most traditional taverns.
Must-Try!
White sausage served with a pretzel and sweet mustard; best enjoyed in the late morning with a refreshing beer or a regional drink.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering regional produce, bread, cheeses, pastries, and seasonal goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be punctual for appointments; greet with 'Guten Tag' or 'Grüß Gott' and use 'Sie' with strangers unless invited to 'du'.
Stick to marked trails, do not disturb wildlife in the Moos, and dispose of trash properly.
Safety
Tipping in Murnau am Staffelsee
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for good service is customary. Tipping can be given in cash or added to a card payment; small amounts are appreciated in cafés.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common, and some places may charge a small fee for card use.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, often 20–25°C, with occasional rain. Longer daylight hours make lake activities and outdoor dining very appealing.
Cooler temperatures (10–18°C) with vibrant foliage and migrating birds around the Moos. Great for photography and harvest kitchen menus.
Cold with possible snowfall in the surrounding hills. Cozy taverns, quiet streets, and winter landscapes offer a peaceful backdrop.
Mild days with blooming flowers and longer afternoons. Ideal for walks, bike rides, and nature photography.
Murnau am Staffelsee at Night
Hiking in Murnau am Staffelsee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat lakeside trails and gentle forest paths with options for short or longer walks.
Accessible wetlands with elevated boardwalks and wildlife viewing; easy to moderate difficulty.
Airports
How to reach Murnau am Staffelsee by plane.
Major international gateway about 90–110 minutes by road or rail; wide range of connections and services.
Regional airport offering some European connections; typically a longer transfer to Murnau but useful for budget flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit for lake days, nature, and easy day trips.
Visitors drawn to the Murnauer Moos and alpine scenery.
Residents and visitors who enjoy a peaceful pace and scenic surroundings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the surrounding hills and near the Murnauer Moos; a staple activity for visitors.
Road and gravel cycling routes around the lake and nearby towns; bike rentals are available locally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Murnau am Staffelsee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetable dishes and Kässpätzle (cheese noodles) as a hearty alternative.