CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes with public transport

Exploring Munich and Beyond: A Close Look at the CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes

If you’re planning a trip to Munich and want to see more than just the city’s famed beer halls and historic sites, the CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes could be a game-changer. This pass offers not only unlimited travel on Munich’s extensive public transportation network but also access to some of Bavaria’s most scenic spots, including lakes, mountains, and charming towns.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the combination of convenience, cost savings, and the chance to explore scenic regions without the hassle of separate tickets. A few things we love include the flexible duration options (from 1 to 6 days), the wide reach into Bavaria’s Oberland, and the discounts on attractions and local eateries.

However, it’s worth considering that the pass does not include long-distance train tickets, so if you plan to travel far or require specific train routes, you’ll need additional tickets. This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to see Munich and the beautiful surrounding countryside comfortably and independently. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a practical transport solution, this pass offers a well-rounded way to experience Bavaria.

Key Points

• Unlimited Public Transport: Enjoy free rides on Munich’s metro, tram, bus, and regional trains within the MVV zone M-12.
• Flexible Duration: Valid for 1 to 6 days, allowing you to customize your trip based on your schedule.
• Scenic Excursions: Access stunning lakes like Chiemsee and Tegernsee, along with charming Bavarian towns.
• Discounts & Savings: Benefit from reduced prices at museums, shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• Family Friendly: Kids under 6 ride free, and groups of up to five adults plus two children can benefit from the group pricing.
• No Long-Distance Trains Included: Additional tickets needed if venturing outside the immediate Bavarian region.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Munich with the Mountains & Lakes Pass

The CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes opens the door to more than just Munich’s city center. While the city itself is rich in history, museums, and lively streets, the real magic begins once you step onto the regional trains and buses to explore the surrounding natural beauty.

With the pass, you can hop on regional trains to reach iconic lakes like Chiemsee, famous for its boat trips and the palace of King Ludwig II, or Tegernsee, a favorite spot for hiking, boating, and indulging in Bavarian cuisine by the water. The convenience of unlimited public transport means there’s no rush — you can take your time, enjoy the scenic views, and visit multiple spots in a single day.

Transportation & Accessibility

The pass covers S-Bahn, subway, bus, streetcar, and regional trains** within the MVV zone M-12, which includes Munich’s city proper and surrounding districts like Miesbach, Bad Tölz, and Rosenheim. This extensive network makes it straightforward to reach even the more remote lakes and quaint towns without worrying about buying individual tickets or planning complicated routes.

Reviewers mention that the trains are reliable and frequent, making spontaneous trips to nearby attractions quite feasible. One reviewer highlighted the ease of use, saying, “The tickets arrived about 24 hours before my trip, and I was able to hop on trains without any hassle.”

Scenic Towns & Nature

Beyond the lakes, the pass grants access to charming towns like Rosenheim, Bad Tölz, and Miesbach. Each offers a unique Bavarian experience: from the historic streets and traditional beer gardens to stunning alpine views. These towns often have markets, local shops, and cozy cafes perfect for taking a break from sightseeing.

One reviewer appreciated the flexibility, noting, “Traveling with the pass, we could spontaneously decide to visit Bad Tölz for a quick getaway, and the whole day was seamless and relaxing.”

The Attractions and Scenic Spots

While the pass itself doesn’t include entrance fees for specific attractions — you’ll need to pay for some museums or tours — the discounts help reduce overall costs. You might find savings at popular sights like museum exhibitions or theaters, making your cultural exploration more affordable.

Lake Chiemsee stands out as a highlight for many travelers. You can take a boat ride and even visit Herrenchiemsee Palace, built by King Ludwig II, which is often compared to Versailles. The Tegernsee area offers hiking trails, boat rentals, and lakeside cafes, making it an ideal day trip destination.

Another reviewer mentioned the convenience of using the pass to visit Münchner Residenz and other museums, noting that the discounts added up, especially when exploring multiple attractions.

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Authentic Bavarian Towns & Cultural Experiences

The towns in the Oberland region are perfect for experiencing Bavaria’s authentic charm. Rosenheim offers a quintessential Bavarian market town vibe, while Bad Tölz is known for its picturesque streets and traditional architecture. Miesbach provides a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with scenic hiking routes nearby.

Travelers have reported that these towns are within easy reach, making them fantastic add-ons to your Munich trip. The short train journeys and well-connected transport system mean more exploration with less effort.

Pricing & Value

The pass’s price depends on the duration — from 24 hours to 6 days — and prices are designed to suit different types of travelers. While it’s not the cheapest option outright, the value lies in the unlimited travel and discounts. If you plan to explore beyond Munich’s city limits, the savings and convenience quickly add up.

One reviewer pointed out, “The pass paid for itself with just a couple of rides and museum discounts, especially considering how many scenic spots we visited.” It’s particularly good for travelers who want flexibility and spontaneity without worrying about buying multiple tickets.

Practical Tips & Insights

• Timing: Your pass is valid from the moment you activate it, either for 24 hours or up to 6 days, so plan your trips accordingly.
• Kids & Families: Kids under 6 ride free, and groups of up to five adults plus two children can share a pass, making it cost-effective for families.
• Getting the Ticket: The tickets are sent via email about 24-48 hours before your trip, so ensure you have access to your email.
• Transportation: All modes of public transport included are reliable, and reviews suggest that the network is extensive enough to reach all major scenic and cultural spots comfortably.
• Limitations: Remember, this pass doesn’t include long-distance trains outside the immediate Bavarian region, so plan accordingly if your travels extend further.

The Sum Up

The CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes is a practical choice for travelers seeking a flexible, cost-effective way to experience Munich and the stunning Bavarian scenery. It’s especially ideal if you’re keen to explore lakes, charming towns, and scenic spots without the hassle of multiple tickets. The combination of unlimited local transport and discounts at attractions makes it a valuable addition to any Bavarian itinerary.

This pass shines because it encourages spontaneous outdoor adventures while covering essential transportation needs. It’s best suited for independent travelers, families, or small groups eager to see more than just Munich’s urban sights.

If your trip includes a mix of city sightseeing and scenic day trips, this experience offers excellent value, memorable views, and the freedom to shape your own Bavarian journey.

FAQ

Does the pass include transportation to Munich Airport?
Yes, the pass covers public transportation within Munich, including the airport zone (outside of Munich). You can use it for trips to and from the airport.

How long before my trip will I receive the tickets?
Tickets are typically sent via email about 24-48 hours before your booked date.

Can I cancel the pass if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund. After receiving the tickets, cancellations are no longer possible.

Are children under 6 free on public transport?
Yes, children under 6 can travel for free on the included public transportation modes.

Can I use this pass for sightseeing tours?
The pass grants discounts at selected museums, attractions, shops, and restaurants but does not include specific sightseeing tours.

Is the pass valid for regional trains outside Munich?
Yes, within the MVV zone M-12, which covers the Bavarian Oberland and surrounding districts.

Can I buy the pass on the day I want to start?
You receive the tickets via email, so you’ll want to activate them when you’re ready to begin your trip.

What if I want to visit multiple lakes and towns?
The unlimited travel and regional train coverage make it easy to visit multiple lakes and towns in one day.

Is it suitable for solo travelers and groups?
Absolutely. The pass works well for individuals, couples, families, and groups up to five adults plus two children.

What’s the best way to maximize the value of this pass?
Plan to visit a mix of outdoor spots, towns, and attractions, and take advantage of the discounts available at partner locations.

In summary, the CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes offers a balanced blend of flexibility, scenic adventure, and savings. For those eager to explore Bavaria beyond the city, it’s a smart, practical choice that enriches your trip without complicating your plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: