Spend a full day discovering Bavaria’s largest lake with A Friend in Munich. Sail to peaceful islands, tour an awe-inspiring castle, and unwind in a lakeside beer garden surrounded by Alpine views.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed for walking short distances and standing during ferry rides.
Wildlife
History
King Ludwig II commissioned Herrenchiemsee castle in the 19th century as a tribute to Versailles, though the project was never completed.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting Chiemsee’s water quality and sensitive island habitats amidst increasing tourism.
A Friend in Munich
Spend a full day discovering Bavaria’s largest lake with A Friend in Munich. Sail to peaceful islands, tour an awe-inspiring castle, and unwind in a lakeside beer garden surrounded by Alpine views.
A Friend in Munich offers private, expert-led tours throughout Munich and nearby Bavarian destinations. Specializing in walking tours, driving tours and full-day excursions, the company guides visitors through Munich’s historic center, major landmarks and regional highlights. Tours are private and structured to provide focused historical context, local recommendations and flexible pacing.
Offerings include short and medium walking tours — from a 2-hour museum visit to 3-, 4- and 5-hour walking itineraries — plus longer driving tours and full-day trips. Signature experiences feature Munich highlights such as Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche, the Residence, Viktualienmarkt, Nymphenburg Palace and the Olympic Stadium. The Golden Age walking tour examines Munich’s turn-of-the-century artistic scene and traces cultural recovery after the Nazi era.
Day trips extend beyond the city: the Chiemsee Tour includes a scenic ferry to Frauenchiemsee island and a visit to Herrenchiemsee castle, while the Neuschwanstein & Ettal day trip offers scenic drives, guaranteed entry to Neuschwanstein Castle, a stop in Oberammergau and visits to Ettal Abbey and the Wieskirche. For museum-focused visitors, the Deutsches Museum tour is led by physicist Alexander and highlights robotics, virtual reality exhibits and historic aircraft.
A Friend in Munich presents clear itineraries and experienced guides who combine local knowledge with practical tips for dining, transit and further exploration. Private formats suit families, couples and small groups seeking an informative, personalized experience in Munich and Bavaria.
Based In
Munich
Tours operate from Munich city area
Tours Offered
7
Private walking, driving and day tours
Durations
2 hr–All-day
Includes 2 hr, 3–5 hr and full-day
Guides
Expert local guides
Includes specialist guide Alexander
Secure a knowledgeable guide for walking tours, driving tours or full-day trips — book a private experience with A Friend in Munich.
Book Ahead for Ferry Tickets
Public ferries to Frauenchiemsee and Herrenchiemsee can fill up, so secure your spots early when possible.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
You’ll walk on uneven paths, especially around Herrenchiemsee castle and Frauenchiemsee island's trails.
Carry Cash for Beer Garden Meals
Many traditional Bavarian beer gardens prefer cash payments, so have some euros on hand.
Bring a Light Jacket
Lake breezes can be cool even in summer, so layered clothing keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
Comfortable walking shoes
Needed for navigating uneven island paths and palace grounds.
Weatherproof jacket
Protects against lake winds and sudden rain showers.
spring|fall|winter
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Essential for sun protection during extended time outdoors.
summer
Small daypack
Useful for carrying water, snacks, camera, and personal items.