Are you interested in going on a day trip from Munich by public transportation to visit two beautiful lakes, explore charming small towns and add a spiritual element to your journey? If so, I have the perfect itinerary for you! During this trip, you will see lakes Ammersee and Starnberger See, take a boat ride across Ammersee, stop by to admire the ornate Baroque Marienmunster Church in Diessen, explore Andechs Monastery near Herrsching, go on a bus ride to Tutzing for a swim and lakeside walk, as well as visit several churches before catching a train back to Munich. So, without further ado, let the adventure begin!
Firstly, take the S-Bahn S8 from Munich Central Station to Herrsching around 8 a.m. The journey will take just over 50 minutes. Afterwards, proceed directly to Herrsching boat station to catch the ferry to Diessen at 9:30 a.m.
Ferry to Diessen
The ferry service on Lake Ammersee is operated by the Bayerische Seenschifffahrt, which also runs services on nearby lakes such as Starnberger See, Tegernsee and Konigssee near Berchtesgaden. The ferry is in operation from Easter to mid-October. Lake Ammersee is divided into northern and southern routes connected by the town of Herrsching. The south route between Herrsching and Diessen is the most affordable option, with the journey taking half an hour. Tickets are sold on the ship.
Ammersee
Surrounded by thick forests, lush meadows and gentle hills, Lake Ammersee, the third largest in Bavaria, boasts a stunning natural landscape. The lake's unparalleled beauty is enhanced by the translucent green colour of the water and the grandeur of the Alps seen in the background.
Diessen am Amersee
The town, with over 10,000 residents, is well-known for its pottery markets and ceramic art. Its history dates back to the 11th century BC and is closely linked to the monastery of St Georgen. The town features charming churches and buildings, as well as a ceramics museum and a museum dedicated to the German composer Carl Orff.
Both visitors and locals can often be seen enjoying picnics by the lake. The town is home to one of the oldest passenger steamships, the Diessen, moored on the lake. Additionally, there is a sailing school for those interested in water activities. However, the main attraction of Diessen is the Marienmunster parish church, a prime example of Baroque architecture in Bavaria.
Diessen Marienmunster parish church
Built in the 18th century by architect Johann Michael Fischer, the Marienmunster was the main building of the former Augustinian Canons' Monastery. The exterior of the church is characterised by the tall Fischer's tower and the elegant west facade. The plastered areas are painted grey, while the architectural details have a light hue. The facade is embellished with pilasters and a curved gable panel with vase decorations. 
The church is considered one of the most important Baroque churches in Germany, showcasing intricate ceiling paintings called the Diessener Himmel, created by renowned artists from the 18th century.
After exploring the quaint town and enjoying the sights of Marienmunster, return to Diessen boat station and catch the ferry back to Herrsching. To stay on track with the itinerary, I recommend boarding the ferry that departs at 12:20. 
Keep in mind that the ferry will stop at Riederau before reaching Herrsching. Once you arrive, briefly walk around Herrsching before heading to Andechs Monastery.
Herrsching
This charming town on Lake Ammersee is home to nearly 11,000 residents. It is a popular destination for visitors due to its lido and cafes that offer great coffee and cakes. The town features attractions such as a 5-kilometre promenade, Kurparkschlossl (Little Castle) built in 1888, St Martin's Church, Hotel Zur Post Gasthof from 1567 and Archaeological Park dating back to the 7th century. 
Visitors can reach Andechs Monastery by bus No. 951 or 958, which will get them there in 15 minutes.
Andechs Monastery
People visit this Benedictine monastery for various reasons. Some arrive to participate in the long-standing tradition of pilgrimage to Andechs, while others come to enjoy the monastery's beer and the traditional Bavarian Brotzeit (a meal of cold meats, bread and cheese). 
Additionally, visitors can admire the stunning views of the Alps and the picturesque landscape in the Five Lakes Region. The monastery, established in 1455, is the oldest pilgrimage site in Bavaria and has been operated by the Benedictines since its founding. The iconic onion tower of the monastery can be seen from afar.
As visitors make their way up the holy mountain from the bus stop, they are greeted by beer gardens and taverns offering the monastery's renowned beer. Andechs Monastery stands out as one of the few remaining breweries in Bavaria that is independently operated by a monastic order, with their dark Double Bock style beer receiving high praise on beer-tasting websites.
In addition to its brewing tradition, the monastery hosts various cultural events, such as the Andechser Orgelsommer, the Carl Orff Festival and various symposiums that attract a wide range of enthusiasts. 
Ascend the church tower for impressive views of the surroundings.
Tip: Hiking trail to Andechs Monastery
If you have extra time, consider walking the five-kilometre route from the train station in Herrsching (at the end of the S8 line) to Andechs along the Kienbach stream. This scenic path is ideal for families with children and is suitable for bikes and pushchairs. The trail is well-marked with signs.
Once you have explored Andechs Monastery, hop on bus No. 958 to Tutzing and disembark at the Klenzestrase stop.
Tutzing
Tutzing is considered the main tourist hub in the area. With a population of approximately 10,000 residents, it is the second largest town on Lake Starnberg after Starnberg and is located close to Munich. Tutzing is known for its lakeside resorts, sailing school and numerous lakeside trails. The town also offers cultural attractions, historical sites and all the amenities necessary for a vacation spot. I suggest getting off at the Klenzestrase stop due to its proximity to a beach where you can swim in Lake Starnberg.
Lake Starnberg
Lake Starnberg, the second largest lake in Bavaria, is a popular spot for Bavarians to visit. Many residents of Munich choose to stay overnight at one of the picturesque campsites or hotels overlooking the lake. The lake is perfect for sports enthusiasts as it is suitable for swimming, sailing and rowing. Cyclists and hikers can explore the 46-kilometre circular route or the various hiking trails in the area.
After a swim in the lake, take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore until you reach St Peter and Paul parish church. Please take a look at this Tutzing walking map.
St Peter and Paul parish church
The old parish church, situated close to the lake, was the primary church of Hofmark Tutzing until the early 20th century. It was reconstructed in the 18th century on the original Gothic structure. The front of the church displays a fresco of St Christophorus.
The church is encircled by Tutzing's original cemetery.
Address: Graf-Vieregg-Strasse
On your way to Tutzing train station, visit St Joseph Church.
St Joseph Church
The Catholic parish church, constructed in 1929 by Munich architect Richard Steidle in the neo-Baroque style, stands out in Tutzing with its grandeur and distinctive double towers adorned with cupolas and lantern turrets. It serves as a recognisable landmark visible from afar, and the sound of its bells carries across the lake. The altarpiece is a reproduction of G. B. Tiepolo's Adoration of the Magi.
Address: Kirchenstrasse 10
Afterwards, take a look at the Town Hall built in 1924.
Address: Kirchenstrasse 9
After seeing the Town Hall, keep walking towards Tutzing train station, where you can catch a regional train or S-Bahn back to Munich, which takes about half an hour.
I hope you have enjoyed your time.
Practical information
Due to the seasonal ferry schedule, this itinerary can only be followed between May and September. There is no ferry available at 9:30 a.m. from Herrsching to Diessen during other months. It is advisable to check the ferry timetable before your trip to avoid any inconvenience. This itinerary is very packed. One possibility to cut it shorter is to return to Herrsching after visiting Andechs Monastery and spend some time there before going back to Munich. If you are travelling during the summer months, bring your swimsuit and towel as the water in the lakes is warm enough for swimming. Choosing weekdays during the summer for your trip would be advisable, as weekends tend to be busier in this area.
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Author: Anita Sane
About the author
Anita is a part-time traveller, passionate photographer and a retired career woman from Latvia, travelling mostly solo for more than 15 years. She is a skilled travel planner who plans and executes her travels by herself. Anita wants to show you how to travel the world and open your mind to new experiences. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter and Bloglovin.
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