The most beautiful lakes in and around Munich
Are you in Munich in summer - do you want to discover the old town, experience Bavarian flair, but also get away from the hustle and bustle for a while? Good news: Hardly any other city is as ideal for spontaneous nature excursions as Munich. Between the beer garden and the Olympic Park, turquoise lakes, Alpine panoramas and Caribbean flair await right on the doorstep. The variety of lakes around Munich is so impressive that the region is often referred to as Munich's lake district. Whether smaller city lakes right in the city center or the big classics such as Lake Starnberg or Lake Walchensee - they are all within easy reach and invite you to relax, swim and enjoy. Especially on hot summer days, a trip there feels like a short vacation in the middle of everyday life.
Lakes in Munich: Cool off without leaving the city
Feldmochinger See - pure nature in the north
- Water temperature: usually 21-25 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
The Feldmochinger See is part of the popular Dreiseenplatte in the north of Munich. It is quiet, nestled in meadows and trees - and is an insider tip, especially among locals. Ideal after a visit to Nymphenburg Palace or a shopping trip to the OEZ. Families, nature lovers and those seeking peace and quiet will find shady spots and a relaxed atmosphere here.
Directions: S1 or U2 to Feldmoching, then take bus 172 to Feldmochinger See
Riemer See - Urban beach style
- Water temperature: approx. 20-24 °C
- Swimming permitted: Yes
In the middle of the modern Messestadt Ost district, Riemer See awaits you with a sandy beach and beach vibes. A young, international crowd flocks here - ideal for a sundowner after sightseeing. Particularly beautiful: the sunset is reflected in the modern architecture.
Directions: U2 to Messestadt Ost or S4 / S6 to Gronsdorf
Feringasee - for sport & after-work
- Water temperature: approx. 21-25 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
The Feringasee is perfect if you still have energy after a day of sightseeing: SUP, volleyball, sunbathing lawn - plus a beer garden right by the water. A classic for all those who like it sporty.
How to get there: S8 to Unterföhring, then 10 minutes by bike
Tip: Come early - it gets crowded from midday, but the atmosphere remains relaxed.
Langwieder See - quickly accessible by badebus
- Water temperature: usually 22-26 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
A real plus point for visitors: in summer, the badebus takes you directly from Lochhausen station to Langwieder See - one of the most popular lakes in the west of Munich. In addition to the bathing lake, Lußsee and Birkensee are also nearby - all quiet, green and ideal for a picnic or a quick dip after a sightseeing tour.
Directions: S3 to Lochhausen + badebus
The most beautiful lakes near Munich - perfect for day trips
Lake Starnberg - classically beautiful with a view of the Alps
- Water temperature: rather cool, approx. 18-22 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
Lake Starnberg - one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in Bavaria - is just 35 minutes from the city center. Here, sophisticated villas meet Alpine panoramas, and cozy excursion steamers chug along the water. A highlight: the lake festival in Tutzing with music, boats and fairy lights.
Directions: S6 to Starnberg
Tip: Hire a rowing boat or take a steamboat trip - pure relaxation!
Ammersee - romance & nostalgia
- Water temperature: approx. 21-24 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
The Ammersee is just a few kilometers away - perfect for those who like it quieter and more nostalgic. In places like Herrsching or Dießen, you can stroll along the promenades, eat an ice cream, take a pedalo tour or visit the famous Andechs Monastery.
Directions: S8 to Herrsching
Tip: Sunset in Utting - a real goosebump moment!
Wörthsee - peaceful & turquoise blue
- Water temperature: quickly warm, approx. 22-26 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
Are you looking for a quieter lake with clear, turquoise water? Then Wörthsee is perfect. It is smaller, often less crowded and ideal for a picnic or a quiet swim in the afternoon.
Directions: S8 to Steinebach
Tip: Head for the southern shore - you'll find plenty of shade and peace and quiet there.
Walchensee - The Bavarian Caribbean
- Water temperature: cool, mostly 16-20 °C
- Swimming permitted: Yes
Lake Walchensee is often referred to as the Bavarian Caribbean because of its emerald green water. Nestled in the mountains, it is one of the deepest and clearest Alpine lakes. Ideal for nature lovers, hikers and anyone who really wants to get out and about - only about 1.5 hours from Munich.
How to get there: By car or train to Kochel, then continue by bus or bike
Tip: Best view from the Herzogstand - an experience in itself!
Eibsee - emerald green under the Zugspitze
- Water temperature: cold, usually 15-19 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
The Eibsee is spectacularly situated below the Zugspitze and looks like something out of a fairy tale. With its small islands, crystal-clear water and breathtaking mountain panorama, it is one of the most photogenic lakes in Germany. Swimming is permitted - but refreshingly cold! If you're brave, jump in anyway.
How to get there: Take the train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then continue by bus to the Eibsee cable car
Tip: Early in the morning, the lake is particularly quiet and mystical - perfect for nature photography and a short hike.
Lakes & castles in the foothills of the Alps - culture meets nature
Königssee - a natural wonder with an echo
- Water temperature: rather cold, approx. 14-18 °C
- Swimming permitted: Yes, on selected shore areas
A real jewel in Berchtesgaden: Lake Königssee looks like a fjord with its steep rock faces and the famous St. Bartholomä church. Particularly beautiful: the boat trip with the captains' echo show.
Tip: Be sure to take advantage of our guided tour from Munich - stress-free and an excursion full of highlights!
Alpsee - royal scenery near Neuschwanstein
- Water temperature: approx. 18-22 °C
- Swimming allowed: Yes
The picturesque Alpsee lies below the famous Neuschwanstein Castle - ideal for enjoying some nature after a tour of the castle.
Tip: Swimming allowed! Pack your swimsuit for a dip with a fairytale view.
Conclusion: your perfect Munich summer
Whether it's sightseeing in the old town, a trip to the Alpine foothills or a dip in the turquoise waters: Munich is unbeatable in summer. The city not only offers you cultural highlights and urban diversity, but also a huge range of swimming lakes worth seeing in and around Munich - all easily accessible and varied. Enjoy the summer - between Marienplatz and the sound of waves!
