Starnberg Travel Guide

Discover the cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay and shop in Starnberg, Germany. Learn the local culture, customs, safety and health tips to make the most of your visit.


Introduction to Starnberg

Starnberg is a picturesque town of Upper Bavaria, in Germany. Famous for its scenic views of the Alpine foothills and Lake Starnberg, Starnberg boasts an impressive cultural and historical heritage, world-class outdoor activities, and a delectable food and drink scene. Whether you’re into hiking and biking, exploring art and history, trying out local delicacies, or just enjoying the charm of the Bavarian countryside, Starnberg has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Starnberg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Your first stop in Starnberg should be its cultural landmarks that showcase the rich history and traditions of the town. The Starnberg Museum holds a collection of artworks, archaeological finds, and historical artifacts tracing back to the Bronze Age.

Stroll through the old town center with beautifully preserved buildings such as the City Hall, the St. Joseph Church, and the Schlossberg Chapel, which dates back to the 15th century and houses stunning frescoes and sculptures. Another highlight is the Wittelsbach Fountain, erected in honor of King Ludwig II, who spent his last night in Starnberg before his untimely death.

Natural Attractions of Starnberg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Starnberg’s location on the edge of the Bavarian Alps and the crystal-clear Lake Starnberg invites a myriad of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, boating, and swimming. Take a hike to Herzogstand mountain to enjoy stunning views over the Lake Starnberg and the nearby foothills. The Römerstraße biking trails, with its picturesque landscape, is another must-do activity.

Alternatively, enjoy a romantic boat ride on the Lake Starnberg or go for some relaxing time on one of the town’s beaches. Official parks including Ammersee-Western Shore Nature Park or Hofbräuhaus Traunstein Beer Garden provide visitors with an idyllic escape into nature, relax in the midst of extensive gardens and watch the world go by.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Starnberg

There are plenty of hiking and biking routes to choose from in Starnberg. The Five-Seen-Wanderung trail leads you through scenic valleys and near-spirit lakes, providing unparalleled views of the Bavarian countryside. With over 100 km of biking trails, ranging from moderate to advanced skill levels, ride through idyllic nature trails and mountain routes and experience the natural scenery of Starnberg.

Best Things to Do in Starnberg: Activities and Tours

Take a tour and experience the best Starnberg has to offer. Visit the famous Andechs Monastery, located in the middle of the Bavarian countryside on top of the Holy Mountain. Explore the surrounding gardens with gorgeous views over the nearby mountains. For those interested in the arts, visit the Fünf-Seen-Land Art Festival, which features artwork from local artists made using various techniques, such as painting, sculpture, and textiles. Get an insight into the brewing industry of Starnberg, by taking a guided tour through the local brewery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Starnberg

Enjoy the ultimate week-long tour of Starnberg by following this itinerary:

  • Day 1: Monastery tour: Visit the famous Andechs Monastery and hike through scenic trails nearby.
  • Day 2: Beer Tour: Get an insight into Starnberg’s famous brewing industry through a guided tour of a local brewery.
  • Day 3: Cultural Tour: Explore Starnberg’s cultural landmarks such as the museums, historical sites, and old town center.
  • Day 4: Outdoor Adventures: Experience Starnberg’s natural beauty by taking a boat ride on Lake Starnberg and hiking the Römerstraße biking trails.
  • Day 5: Food Tour: Take a walking tour of Starnberg’s food scene, sampling local delicacies and visiting the town’s famous restaurants and cafes.
  • Day 6: Bike Tour: Explore Starnberg’s impressive biking trails by taking an easy-to-moderate level biking tour.
  • Day 7: Relaxation Day: Spend a day relaxing in the town’s parks and gardens.

Food and Drink Scene of Starnberg

Must-Try Dishes

Starnberg is known for its hearty cuisine, featuring local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Must-try dishes include:

  • Bavarian sausages served with sauerkraut and potato salad
  • Leberkäse, a Bavarian meatloaf with a crispy crust served with sweet and spicy mustard
  • Käsespätzle, a local cheese and noodle dish often served with sautéed onions and roasted pork.

Local Beverages

To dive deeper into the local lifestyle, don’t forget to try Starnberg’s famous beer. With dozens of local breweries, each specializing in distinct flavors and methods, Starnberg is a haven for beer enthusiasts. Another local specialty is the local spirits “Obstler” and “Enzian” both distilled from locally grown fruits and herbs.

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

Starnberg offers a variety of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to cater to any budget levels. The luxurious Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Starnberg offers high-end amenities amidst a picturesque garden, while the Hotel Bayerischer Hof Starnberg offers an elegant traditional Bavarian-style stay.

Those looking for a budget stay can opt for the Das Andechser Hof guesthouse, offering cozy rooms and an on-site restaurant, or Jugendherberge Starnberg, a youth hostel located by the lake shores.

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

Take a piece of Starnberg back home with you by shopping for local products. The town is famous for its beer specialties and locally brewed wines. Visit the weekly markets around the lakeshore or the Mandolin wine shop for some great local wines, and for shopping for souvenirs, visit the Tea And Country House, which supplies a range of locally made food and products.

Local Culture and Customs of Starnberg

Bavarian culture is known for its deep-rooted traditions, and Starnberg is no exception. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, such as the use of “Gruß Gott” (meaning “hello”) as the standard greeting. Dressing appropriately, especially when visiting churches and historic sites, is also advised.

Best Time to Visit Starnberg

The best time to visit Starnberg is during the late spring and early autumn months (May-June and September-October), as the town experiences fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and the beautiful fall foliage of the nearby foothills.

Do’s and Don’ts of Starnberg

Do:

  • Do try local Bavarian cuisine.
  • Do respect local traditions and customs.
  • Do take on outdoor adventures.
  • Do visit cultural landmarks.
  • Do relax and unwind in the town’s parks and gardens.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be loud and rowdy in public places.
  • Don’t smoke in public places other than designated areas.
  • Don’t litter or damage historic sites or natural landscapes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Starnberg

Starnberg is known to be a safe town, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Visitors are advised to take general safety precautions, such as keeping your belongings safe while in public areas and paying attention to traffic regulations.

Health in Starnberg

Starnberg boasts a well-developed healthcare system, with plenty of clinics and hospitals located in the town center and nearby areas. Visitors should have valid health insurance to avail themselves of local medical services. It is worth noting that the nearest hospital is Starnberg Hospital, located in the city center.

Getting to Starnberg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Starnberg

Starnberg is conveniently located around half an hour drive (one hour with public transport) from the Munich International Airport. Upon arrival, visitors can take a taxi or a train to Starnberg.

Bus Stations Near Starnberg

The Starnberg train station is your easiest access point for arriving by public transportation. It connects the town with Munich and other regions of Bavaria, and also has regular bus connections.

Other Options

If you need to travel within the town, buses and taxis are readily available, and bikes can be rented from several locations. Tourists also often opt for a car rental, which is the easiest way to explore the region’s surrounding areas and attractions.

How to Get Around in Starnberg

Getting around in Starnberg is easy and convenient. Buses and taxis run frequently, and renting a bike is a popular way of exploring the town and its surroundings. It is worth noting that parking can be challenging during peak tourist season.

Where to Go Next from Starnberg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Starnberg is a perfect starting point for exploring nearby regions. Visit Munich, the capital city of Bavaria, located just 30 minutes away, and explore its famous landmarks such as the Marienplatz, Neuschwanstein Castle, and the BMW Welt. Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany and a popular skiing destination, is just a short distance away. Alternatively, head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a charming alpine town famous for its skiing, hiking, and distinctive architecture.

Conclusion

Starnberg promises an immersive experience that blends culture, nature, and hospitality for visitors. Whether it’s hiking or biking through picturesque trails or enjoying the town’s famous beer, visitors will feel connected to the culture, traditions, and lifestyle. So pack your bags and head to Starnberg for the ultimate Bavarian adventure.

Starnberg Castle Starnberg Castle St. Joseph Church St. Joseph Church