CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes with public transport

Exploring Bavaria with the CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes

If you’re thinking about soaking up the natural beauty of Bavaria along with a taste of Munich’s vibrant city life, the CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes might just be your best bet. Designed for travelers who want flexibility, this pass offers unlimited public transport within Munich and the surrounding Oberland region, plus discounts at various attractions, shops, and restaurants.

What I really like about this pass is how it makes exploring both the city and the picturesque countryside super easy—no fussing over tickets or figuring out transportation. The fact that you get to visit iconic spots like Chiemsee and Tegernsee without worrying about extra costs or complicated routes is a real win. Another thing that stands out is the variety of charming towns like Rosenheim, Bad Tölz, and Miesbach that you can comfortably explore in a day.

Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that this pass doesn’t include long-distance train tickets, so if you want to venture further afield or plan a specific trip, those tickets will be separate. Still, for anyone wanting a flexible, cost-effective way to enjoy Bavaria’s highlights from the city to the lakes, this pass can be a real time-saver.

This experience is perfect if you love a mix of city sightseeing and scenic escapes. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or even a small family, you’ll find value here—just be ready to plan your days to maximize both urban exploration and outdoor relaxation.

Key Points

• Unlimited public transport within Munich and Oberland zones makes travel seamless.
• Discounts at museums, shops, and attractions help stretch your budget.
• Flexible durations from 1 to 6 days cater to different trip lengths.
• Ideal for exploring both Munich’s city life and Bavaria’s lakes and towns.
• Includes free travel for children under 6, making it family-friendly.
• No long-distance train tickets included, so plan for separate bookings if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes

The CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes is all about giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Once you activate your pass—anywhere from 24 hours up to 6 days—you’ll have unlimited access to the S-Bahn, subway, buses, streetcars, and regional trains within the MVV network zone M-12. That covers Munich city center, its outer districts, and the beautiful Oberland region, including districts like Miesbach, Bad Tölz, and Rosenheim.

This flexibility means you can hop on and off public transport without the stress of paying each time, which is especially handy if you’re planning to visit multiple towns or outdoor spots like Chiemsee or Tegernsee. The scenic journeys themselves are part of the fun—seeing the Bavarian landscape unfold as you travel is a treat.

How the Pass Works

The pass is delivered via email about 24-48 hours before your start date, so you’ll want to plan ahead. Once activated, it’s valid for the chosen duration—whether that’s a quick 24 hours or a more relaxed 6 days—giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. You can visit many popular sights and enjoy discounts at participating venues, which helps if you’re on a budget or want to indulge a little without the full price tag.

Tips for Using Your Pass

• Start early if you want to maximize your days, as some attractions close early or have limited hours.
• Combine city touring with outdoor trips—this pass makes it straightforward to do both in the same trip.
• Check the flyer for discounts—these are available at select museums, shops, and restaurants, adding extra value.
• Children under 6 can travel free, so if you’re with little ones, be sure to bring their IDs to prove age.

Discovering Bavaria’s Natural Beauty

One of the biggest draws of this pass is the chance to explore Bavaria’s scenic spots without the hassle of individual train tickets. Places like Chiemsee—famous for the fairy-tale-like Neuschwanstein Castle—and Tegernsee offer stunning lakeside views, quaint villages, and peaceful surroundings that are perfect for a day trip or half-day escape.

Many reviews mention how convenient it is to just hop on regional trains and buses, especially since the pass covers these routes. This means you can spend your day wandering through Bad Tölz’s colorful streets or relaxing lakeside while knowing your transportation is covered.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Charming Towns

The included towns each have their own unique vibe. Rosenheim, for example, offers a lovely mix of traditional Bavarian architecture and lively markets. Miesbach is quieter, with scenic routes ideal for a relaxed walk or a quiet coffee. Bad Tölz is a favorite for its picturesque old town and the Tölz River, which makes for beautiful photos.

Travelers have said that these towns are “easy to reach and perfect for a laid-back day,” thanks to the efficient public transport network. Plus, the discounts at local shops and cafes mean you can indulge in local specialties without overspending.

What’s Not Included and Considerations

While the pass is quite comprehensive, it’s worth noting that long-distance train tickets are not included. If you plan to go beyond Bavaria or want to visit places farther out, those tickets will need to be purchased separately. Plus, specific attraction tickets—like for certain museums or castles—are discounted rather than free, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit many.

Some reviews mention that the pass is better suited to those who want to explore a mix of city and countryside without a tightly scheduled tour. If you prefer guided groups or fixed itineraries, this pass might not suit you as well. Also, keep in mind that the pass is non-transferable, so only the person whose name is on the ticket should use it.

Transportation and Practical Tips

• Public transport in Munich and Oberland is extensive and reliable, covering all major sightseeing areas.
• Kids under 6 travel for free, making this a family-friendly option.
• Bring your passport or ID—necessary for validation and if you’re travelling with children.
• Check the zones—the M-12 zone covers Munich, its outskirts, and some Bavarian districts.
• Start with a plan—mapping out your main destinations will help you get the most from your days.

Is This Pass Right for You?

If you’re a traveler who loves independent exploration, appreciates the convenience of unlimited public transport, and wants to save money through discounts, this pass is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those wanting a flexible itinerary that mixes city sights with outdoor adventures.

It’s also a smart pick if you’re traveling with a small family or a group of friends, given the group size allowance and free travel for children under 6. However, if your trip involves longer-distance travel outside the Bavarian region or specific attraction tickets, you may want to consider additional options.

The Sum Up

The CityTourCard Munich: Mountains & Lakes delivers on its promise of flexible, affordable exploration of Bavaria’s beautiful lakes, charming towns, and Munich’s urban energy. Its strength lies in hassle-free public transport, which encourages you to take spontaneous trips and see more than just the city’s core. The discounts add extra value, making it easier to enjoy museums and local eateries without breaking the bank.

This pass is best suited for travelers who want to balance city sightseeing with outdoor escapes, and who prefer to craft their own adventure rather than follow a rigid tour schedule. The scenic train rides, quaint towns, and lakeside views make for memorable experiences, especially when viewed through the lens of Bavaria’s natural beauty.

While it doesn’t include long-distance train tickets, if you’re sticking to Bavaria’s region and craving flexibility, this pass offers a practical, cost-effective way to see a good chunk of what makes this area so special. Whether you’re squeezing in a quick weekend or planning a longer stay, it’s worth considering if you want an easy, comprehensive way to explore Bavaria’s highlights.

FAQ

Does the CityTourCard Munich include long-distance train tickets?
No, it covers local public transport within Munich and Bavaria’s Oberland zone. Long-distance train tickets are not included.

How long before my trip will I receive the ticket?
You’ll get your CityTourCard via email about 24-48 hours before your chosen start date.

Can children travel free with this pass?
Yes, children under 6 can travel for free, and two children aged 6-14 count as one adult in the group.

Is this pass suitable for a family trip?
Absolutely, especially since it includes free transport for young kids and discounts on attractions, making it family-friendly.

What attractions or places can I visit with the discounts?
Discount partners include selected museums, shops, theaters, and restaurants—details are in the flyer.

How long can I use the pass once activated?
You can choose from options valid for 1 to 6 days, depending on your needs.

Do I need to be physically present to use the pass?
No, the email ticket is digital, and you just need to show it on your phone or print it out when asked.

If you’re planning a trip to Munich and Bavaria, the CityTourCard Mountains & Lakes is a practical, flexible way to make the most of your time—and your budget. Happy travels!

You can check availability for your dates here: