Things To Do
in Starnberg

Starnberg, Germany, is a picturesque town located on the western shore of Lake Starnberg, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by the majestic Alps, it offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, historical landmarks, and charming architecture. The town is famous for its sailing, swimming, and hiking opportunities, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

With a vibrant community, numerous cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere, Starnberg is a delightful place to explore.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Starnberg
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the scenic promenade of Lake Starnberg, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Starnberg Castle, which offers insights into the region's history and stunning gardens.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant, savoring local specialties while watching the sunset over the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike through the nearby nature reserve, exploring the lush trails and observing local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Starnberg Museum to learn more about the local culture and history.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local bar or brewery, enjoying live music and regional beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍺Local beer$4-6
🚕Taxi ride (5 km)$10-15
🏨Hotel room (per night)$100-200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural and historical sites.
  • Relaxed atmosphere with friendly locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may have limited schedules.
  • Can be more expensive than other German towns.
  • "Guten Tag" - Good Day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Starnberg

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Starnberg Promenade

Capture breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Starnberg Castle Gardens

A beautiful garden area perfect for capturing the historical architecture against a natural backdrop.

The Old Town

Charming streets lined with traditional Bavarian houses that provide a picturesque setting for photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Starnberg

Starnberg offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the flavors of Bavaria with its lakeside influences. Must-try dishes include fresh fish from the lake, hearty sausages, and traditional pastries.

Starnberg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Steckerlfisch

Grilled fish on a stick, typically served at local festivals and markets.

Must-Try!

Weißwurst

Traditional Bavarian white sausages, usually served with sweet mustard and pretzels.

Bayerische Creme

A creamy Bavarian dessert flavored with vanilla and often served with fruit.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Starnberg Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Starnberg experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures, averaging 10-20°C (50-68°F). Summer (June to August) can get warm, with highs around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Autumn (September to November) sees a gradual cooling, with temperatures ranging from 5-15°C (41-59°F). Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting; always greet people with 'Guten Tag' (Good Day).

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in German culture, so make sure to arrive promptly for appointments or meetings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Starnberg is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are accessible, and it’s advisable to keep emergency numbers handy.

Tipping in Starnberg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Custom

It is customary to round up your bill or add about 5-10% as a tip in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract visitors for swimming, sailing, and enjoying the lakeside atmosphere.

Autumn

Cooler weather brings stunning fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a picturesque winter landscape, with opportunities for winter sports nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Starnberg at Night

Starnberg's nightlife is relaxed yet vibrant, with a variety of bars and pubs offering local beers, wines, and live music. Many establishments are located near the lake, providing a picturesque backdrop for evening gatherings. The atmosphere is friendly, catering more to socializing than high-energy clubbing, making it perfect for a laid-back evening with friends or locals.

Hiking in Starnberg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Feldafinger Wald Trail

A scenic hiking trail through the Feldafinger Forest, offering beautiful views and a chance to observe local wildlife.

Hiking Trail to the Buchenberger Alm

A moderately challenging trail that leads to a mountain hut with panoramic views of the Alps, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Starnberg by plane.

Munich Airport (MUC)

Located approximately 60 km from Starnberg, Munich Airport is the nearest major international airport, offering a wide range of flights and services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Starnberg is highly walkable, especially around the lake and town center. Most attractions, cafes, and shops are within a short distance, making it easy to explore on foot. The well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian areas enhance the walking experience, allowing for leisurely strolls with beautiful views.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Starnberg is home to many families, attracted by the scenic environment, quality schools, and recreational activities.

Retirees

The peaceful atmosphere and access to nature make Starnberg a popular choice for retirees looking for a tranquil lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Starnberg, with local clubs and community games regularly attracting fans.

Sailing

Due to the proximity of Lake Starnberg, sailing is a favored sport, with many local enthusiasm for both recreational and competitive sailing.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Starnberg is generally light, with the main roads connecting to Munich and other regions. Public transportation options include buses and regional trains that make accessing nearby towns and cities convenient. Biking is also popular, with dedicated paths for cyclists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Starnberg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available at some places; however, communication with staff is key.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Starnberg is excellent, with several clinics and medical facilities available. Emergency services can be reached easily, and there are local pharmacies for minor health needs. Travelers should have health insurance that covers them during their stay.

Discover Germany

Read more in our Germany 2025 Travel Guide.

Germany Travel Guide