I am traveling to Munich for work in May 2025. I have about 4 days beforehand to explore the Alps. Planning to go from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen to hike Zugspitze. Then, I want to drive to the Neuschwanstein Castle, and on to Berchtesgaden national park. After that, back to Munich for the conference. Technically, I think I could use trains/buses to get to these places, but it seems like renting a car would be faster and more convenient than taking trains/buses. Is parking, etc too much of a hassle to drive? What would you recommend? TIA!
Posted by
Lakewood, Colorado
19399 posts
I've spent almost six month in Germany in the last 25 years, been to all the places you mention, and all over that area. I've never rented a car (I did drive a friend's for a few, once). A car might be faster, but I doubt more convenient and definitely more expensive, and a lot less fun. To me, one of the most valuable experience of traveling in Germany is using a transportation system that is both efficient and effective. You can't do that in the US.
Posted by
Schwerin
3691 posts
German Alpine Road connects the mentioned points and with a rental car you would avoid some backtracking to Munich:
https://www.deutsche-alpenstrasse.de/en/home
You have to care for validity of driving permission in Germany (not license only) and likely mandatory need for IDP.
For parking fees in public EasyPark app is often helpful.
Tip: rental cars are cheaper if not rented from airports or main train stations, e. g. Munich Pasing (Sixt) for driving southwestwards.
Regional trains and buses in Bavaria are very convenient to use with Bavaria ticket. DB journey planner helps finding connections.