Murnau Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in Murnau, Bavaria with this comprehensive travel guide.


Are you looking for an authentic travel experience in Bavaria? Look no further than Murnau, a charming town located in the heart of the Upper Bavarian region. From its enchanting views of the Bavarian Alps to its rich artistic heritage, Murnau is a must-see destination for culture enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and history buffs alike. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Murnau.

Introduction to Murnau

Murnau is a small but vibrant town located about 70 km south of Munich in Upper Bavaria. With a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, it has become one of the top destinations for tourists looking for a unique and authentic German experience. This charming town is known for its art, architecture, and traditional Bavarian culture. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Bavarian Alps, explore historic landmarks, and immerse themselves in local traditions and cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Murnau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Murnau is home to several museums and historical landmarks that showcase its rich cultural heritage.

  • Schlossmuseum Murnau: This castle-turned-museum showcases the artwork of the famous German expressionist painter Franz Marc. Visitors can view a collection of his works and learn about his life and artistic influences.
  • Münter-Haus: This restored artist’s studio and home belonged to Gabriele Münter, a German expressionist painter and founding member of the Blue Rider movement. The house is now a museum that showcases her paintings and personal possessions.
  • St. Nicholas Church: This 15th-century gothic church is one of the oldest buildings in Murnau. It features beautiful stained glass windows and a stunning altar.

Natural Attractions of Murnau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Murnau offers a variety of outdoor activities that allow visitors to experience the town’s stunning natural beauty.

  • Staffelsee: This beautiful lake is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can rent paddle boats and canoes and enjoy the serene views of the Bavarian Alps.
  • Murnauer Moos: This nature reserve is the largest bog in Central Europe and home to a variety of rare plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the nature trails and birdwatching stations.
  • Hiking and Biking Trails: Murnau is surrounded by the Bavarian Alps and offers a variety of hiking and biking trails suitable for all skill levels. The Panoramaweg trail offers stunning views of the Staffelsee and the mountains and is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Murnau: Activities and Tours

Murnau offers a variety of activities and tours that allow visitors to experience the town’s unique culture and natural beauty.

  • Bavarian Costume Workshop: Visitors can learn about traditional Bavarian costumes and even design their own Dirndl or Lederhosen.
  • Local Brewery Tour: Beer lovers can enjoy a tour of the local Griesbräu brewery and taste some of their freshly brewed beer.
  • Segway Tour: Visitors can explore the town on a Segway and discover some of the hidden gems and scenic views of Murnau.

Week-Long Itinerary for Murnau

For visitors looking for a more extended stay in Murnau, here’s a recommended week-long itinerary:

Day Activity Description
1 Arrival Check-in at your hotel and explore the town center
2 Schlossmuseum Murnau Visit the museum and learn about Franz Marc’s artwork
3 Münter-Haus Explore Gabriele Münter’s artist studio and home
4 Staffelsee Enjoy a day by the lake and rent a paddle boat
5 Hiking Explore the Panoramaweg trail and enjoy the scenic views
6 Bavarian Costume Workshop Design your own traditional Bavarian costume
7 Departure Check-out from your hotel and depart from Murnau

Food and Drink Scene of Murnau

Murnau offers a diverse food and drink scene, with traditional Bavarian cuisine being a must-try for visitors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Weißwurst: A traditional Bavarian breakfast sausage made from veal and pork.
  • Schweinshaxe: Roasted pork knuckle served with sauerkraut and potatoes.
  • Kaiserschmarrn: A sweet dessert made from shredded pancakes, served with fruit compote and whipped cream.

Local Beverages

  • Bavarian Beer: Murnau is home to the Griesbräu brewery, where visitors can taste some of the local brews.
  • Kaisermelange: A popular coffee drink in Bavaria made with coffee, egg yolk, and honey.

Where to Stay in Murnau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Murnau offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences.

  • Hotel Post Murnau: This hotel is located in the center of town and offers comfortable rooms and excellent dining options.
  • Haus am Gries: This guest house is located near the Staffelsee and offers beautifully furnished rooms and a garden.
  • Jugendherberge Murnau: This youth hostel is located in a historic building and offers affordable accommodation for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Murnau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Murnau offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products that make for excellent gifts or personal mementos.

  • Woodcarvings: Murnau is known for its traditional woodcarvings, which feature intricate designs of animals and other motifs.
  • Local Beer: Visitors can bring home a bottle of the local Griesbräu beer as a tasty souvenir.
  • Traditional Bavarian Costume: Visitors can purchase a Dirndl or Lederhosen from one of the local shops as a fun and unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Murnau

Murnau has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should take the time to learn about some of the unique customs and traditions of the town.

  • Traditional Costumes: Bavarian costumes are still worn on special occasions in Murnau. Visitors can observe locals dressed in Dirndls and Lederhosen during festivals and celebrations.
  • Maypole: During May Day celebrations, locals erect a maypole in the town center and decorate it with flowers and ribbons.
  • Bavarian Music: Visitors can enjoy traditional Bavarian music during festivals and events in Murnau.

Best Time to Visit Murnau

Murnau is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique experience. Summer is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and outdoor activities being in full swing. Winter is also a great time to visit, with the town’s Christmas markets and skiing options being popular attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Murnau

Do:

  • Try traditional Bavarian cuisine.
  • Observe local customs and traditions.
  • Take part in outdoor activities and explore the natural beauty of Murnau.

Don’t:

  • Wear inappropriate clothing to cultural events.
  • Disrespect religious and local customs.
  • Leave trash or litter in natural areas.

Safety and Health

Murnau is a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should take standard precautions against theft and pickpocketing. The town also has excellent medical facilities, with a hospital and several medical practices located in the town center.

Safety in Murnau

  • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night.

Health in Murnau

  • Tap water is safe to drink in Murnau.
  • Visitors should bring any necessary medication with them, as some medications might not be readily available in Germany.

Getting to Murnau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Murnau is easily accessible by public transportation and car.

Airports Near Murnau

The closest airport to Murnau is Munich Airport, which offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Murnau

Murnau has a bus station located in the town center, with several regional and local buses stopping there.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Murnau by train, with the Murnau train station offering connections to major German cities.

How to Get Around in Murnau

Murnau is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also use public transportation, with buses and trains offering connections to nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Murnau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Murnau is located near several popular destinations in Bavaria, making it an excellent base for day trips and excursions.

  • Garmisch-Partenkirchen: This famous ski resort town is only a short drive from Murnau and offers stunning views of the Bavarian Alps.
  • Neuschwanstein Castle: This fairytale castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Germany and is located about an hour and a half from Murnau.
  • Munich: The Bavarian capital is only an hour’s drive from Murnau and offers world-class museums, shopping, and dining options.

Conclusion

Murnau is a charming town that has something to offer for everyone. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and authentic Bavarian cuisine, it’s no wonder that it has become one of the top destinations for travelers looking to experience the best of Germany. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Murnau.

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