Murnau am Staffelsee
,Murnau am Staffelsee is a picturesque town located in southern Germany at the foot of the Bavarian Alps. It is known for its stunning natural surroundings, including the tranquil Lake Staffelsee, which offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The town's charming Bavarian architecture, colorful buildings, and quaint cobbled streets add to its allure.
Murnau am Staffelsee is also famous for being the location where the renowned artist Wassily Kandinsky lived and worked.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please/You're welcome
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Auf Wiedersehen" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Murnau
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing walk around Lake Staffelsee to enjoy the serene views. Don't forget to grab a coffee from a local café as you take in the landscapes.
afternoon
:Visit the Murnau Castle and learn about its history and stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby gardens for some fresh air.
evening
:Enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal at a local restaurant to savor regional flavors. Take a peaceful walk along the water as the sun sets.
Bike Adventures
morning
:Rent a bike and explore the scenic routes around Murnau. The fresh morning air and beautiful countryside will energize your day.
afternoon
:Stop at one of the charming villages along the way for lunch and local treats. Continue your ride and perhaps visit some nearby viewpoints.
evening
:Return to Murnau and relax at a cozy beer garden. Chat with locals and enjoy the lively ambiance of the area.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful natural scenery, including lakes and mountains.
- Quiet and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
- Rich cultural history with traditional Bavarian architecture.
- Outdoor activities available, such as hiking, cycling, and swimming.
- Close proximity to other attractions in Bavaria, including Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
Bad
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Less accessible by public transportation compared to larger cities.
- Limited shopping and dining options in the immediate area.
- Potentially higher costs for accommodations during peak tourist seasons.
- Cold winters may deter some visitors who prefer milder climates.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Murnau am Staffelsee offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Alps and surrounding landscapes, suitable for all levels of hikers.
Cycling
Enjoy scenic cycling routes around the Staffelsee lake and through the beautiful countryside, with options for both leisurely rides and more challenging routes.
Swimming
The crystal-clear waters of Staffelsee invite visitors for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying various water sports during the warmer months.
Rowing and Paddle Boating
Rent a rowboat or paddleboat on Staffelsee for a relaxing day on the water, taking in the stunning natural surroundings.
Nature Photography
Capture stunning landscape photographs, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the lighting enhances the natural beauty of the region.
Birdwatching
Explore the diverse flora and fauna around the lakeside and wetlands, perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts looking to observe various bird species.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Murnau am Staffelsee with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Staffelsee Lake
One of the most picturesque spots in Murnau, offering stunning views of the lake surrounded by mountains, making it a perfect spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Murnauer Moos
A beautiful nature reserve with vast wetlands, offering unique flora and fauna, as well as panoramic views ideal for bird watching and landscape photography.
Hochwiesmühle
A historical mill located near the river, providing charming backdrops for photography, especially with the surrounding lush greenery and tranquil waters.
Alpenblick
A viewpoint that provides magnificent vistas of the Alps. It's a fantastic location for capturing stunning landscapes, particularly during clear days.
Pfarrkirche St. Nikolaus
This beautiful church features impressive architecture and is surrounded by scenic views. Great for capturing both its detailed façade and the backdrop of the mountains.
Kochler Badesee
A serene swimming lake, ideal for capturing moments of leisure with mountain reflections in the water—perfect for summer photography.
Schellschlicht
A hill that provides a panoramic view of the area, especially captivating at dusk when the skies change colors, ideal for sunset photography.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Weisswurst
A traditional Bavarian white sausage made from finely minced veal and pork back bacon. It's typically flavored with parsley, mace, onions, lemon, and cardamom, and is a must-try in Murnau am Staffelsee. It can be found at Gasthof zur Post, a traditional Bavarian restaurant.
Must-Try!
Kaiserschmarrn
This fluffy, shredded pancake is a local favorite. Served with powdered sugar and often a side of applesauce or plum compote, it can be enjoyed at Cafe La Porte or Zum Heurigen restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Murnau am Staffelsee better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Murnauer Wochenmarkt
Every Friday, the Murnau weekly market offers a great selection of fresh local produce, cheese, sausage, and bread. Visitors can also find vendors offering delicious street food like pretzels, bratwurst, and local pastries.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness and Formality
In Murnau am Staffelsee, it is customary to greet people with a polite 'Guten Tag' during the day. Use formal titles like 'Herr' or 'Frau' followed by the last name when addressing someone you do not know well.
Respecting Nature
The region around Murnau is known for its natural beauty. It is important to respect the environment by following local guidelines on waste disposal and staying on marked paths during hikes or walks.
Quiet Hours
Many residential areas observe quiet hours, typically from 10 PM to 6 AM. During these times, residents appreciate low noise levels, including reduced volume of music and conversations outside.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Murnau am Staffelsee with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Murnau am Staffelsee, as in much of Germany, tipping is customary but not obligatory. It is common to round up the bill at restaurants or leave a tip of around 5-10%. For exceptional service, patrons might tip more generously. In casual settings, such as cafes or bars, it's acceptable to simply round up the total, while in finer dining establishments, leaving a cash tip is more traditional.
Payment
Payment methods in Murnau am Staffelsee typically include cash and card payments. Most establishments accept major credit and debit cards, but smaller shops and restaurants might prefer cash. It's advisable to carry some euros, especially in smaller venues. Digital payment options are also increasingly popular, with some places accepting mobile payment apps.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Murnau am Staffelsee.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) in Murnau am Staffelsee is ideal for those who enjoy mild weather and the blooming of flowers. Expect temperatures ranging from 5 to 15°C (41 to 59°F) and vibrant landscapes as the region comes to life again. It's a great time for hiking and outdoor activities.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is warm, with temperatures typically between 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F). This is the peak season for tourists, ideal for enjoying lakeside activities, hiking in the Alps, and local festivals. Expect a lively atmosphere and plenty of outdoor events.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures ranging from 5 to 15°C (41 to 59°F) and stunning fall foliage. It's less crowded than summer, making it a peaceful time for hikes and enjoying the changing colors of nature.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Murnau am Staffelsee can be quite cold, with temperatures often dipping below 0°C (32°F). Expect snow-covered landscapes, which are perfect for winter sports and cozying up by the fire. The Christmas season brings unique markets and festive decorations.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Staffelsee Rundweg
A scenic circular trail around Staffelsee Lake, offering beautiful views and access to various beaches and picnic spots.
Murnauer Moos
A nature reserve with well-marked trails through wetlands and meadows, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the diverse flora.
Feldberg
Located a short drive away, Feldberg offers various hiking trails with stunning views of the Bavarian Alps and well-maintained paths.
Hochplatten
A moderate hike that leads to a viewpoint overlooking the surrounding landscape, combining forest paths and alpine scenery.
Gschwendtner Alm
A hike that leads to a rustic mountain hut offering regional food and spectacular views of the mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Murnau am Staffelsee through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Murnau am Staffelsee by plane.
Munich Airport (MUC)
The largest international airport in Germany and a major hub for international flights, located approximately 90 km from Murnau am Staffelsee.
Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Switzerland's largest international airport, located about 260 km from Murnau am Staffelsee, offering numerous international connections.
Innsbruck Airport (INN)
An international airport located about 120 km from Murnau, serving many seasonal international flights, particularly during ski season.
Stuttgart Airport (STR)
Located approximately 220 km away, it serves as a major gateway to southern Germany with numerous international connections.
Munich West (Lechfeld) Airport (EMLF)
A smaller airport located approximately 70 km away, primarily serving general aviation and some regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
German Nationals
The majority of the population in Murnau am Staffelsee consists of native German nationals, representing the predominant demographic group in the area.
Austrian Nationals
A smaller group of residents come from Austria, reflecting cultural and historical ties between the two countries.
Turkish Nationals
A significant Turkish community exists in Murnau, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Italian Nationals
There is a notable population of Italian nationals, largely due to migration patterns and economic opportunities.
Other European Nationals
This group includes residents from various European countries, such as Poland, Greece, and France, who have settled in Murnau.
Non-European Nationals
A smaller portion of the population consists of individuals from non-European countries, adding to the multicultural aspect of Murnau.
The Soul of Murnau am Staffelsee
Discover the essence of Murnau am Staffelsee through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is one of the most popular sports in Murnau am Staffelsee, with local clubs and a strong community involvement.
Hiking
The beautiful landscapes around Murnau offer excellent hiking trails, making it a popular activity for both locals and tourists.
Cycling
Cycling is very popular in Murnau, with many scenic routes available for both leisurely rides and more challenging biking.
Winter Sports
During the winter season, skiing and snowboarding are popular activities in the nearby Alps.
Tennis
Tennis clubs in Murnau provide facilities and organized events for players of all ages.
Swimming
Murnau has several swimming facilities and swimming in the nearby lakes is also a common pastime in warmer months.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many local eateries in Murnau am Staffelsee offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ranging from traditional Bavarian dishes to international cuisine.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerance can easily find suitable options in Murnau am Staffelsee, as several restaurants and cafes provide gluten-free choices on their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Murnau am Staffelsee with these cultural adventures.