Things To Do
in Dachau
Dachau is a historic Bavarian town just northwest of Munich, known for its poignant memorial and well-preserved town center. Set along the Amper river, it blends classic Bavarian architecture with green parks and a relaxed cafe culture. Visitors can reflect at the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, explore Schloss Dachau and its gardens, or stroll the elegant Hauptstrasse with its boutiques.
With easy rail access to Munich, Dachau makes a convenient base for a Bavarian day trip.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by strolling through the charming cobblestone streets of Dachau's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful Baroque architecture. Visit the Dachau Town Hall, a stunning building that reflects the town's rich history. Stop by a local bakery to savor a delicious German pastry paired with a steaming cup of coffee.
After lunch, explore the Dachau Palace and its beautiful gardens, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Take your time to wander through the lush greenery and appreciate the intricate designs of the palace's interiors. Consider visiting the local art galleries to discover the works of regional artists and the cultural heritage of the area.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy restaurant in the heart of Dachau to enjoy traditional Bavarian cuisine. Pair your meal with a local beer while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the town. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the historic streets, where you can admire the buildings illuminated at night.
Start your day with a visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, a profoundly moving experience that provides insight into the historical significance of the site. Take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the events that transpired here during World War II. Spend time reflecting in the memorial gardens, where the somber atmosphere invites contemplation.
Continue your visit to the on-site museum, which houses various exhibitions detailing the history of the concentration camp and the experiences of its prisoners. Engage with the multimedia presentations to gain a comprehensive perspective on the atrocities committed during this dark chapter in history. Afterward, take a moment at the memorials dedicated to the victims, honoring their memory.
For dinner, choose a nearby restaurant that specializes in international cuisine, offering a contrast to your earlier experiences. Reflect on the day’s events over a meal, perhaps discussing the importance of remembrance and history. After dinner, if you feel up for it, take a quiet evening walk in the nearby park to decompress and gather your thoughts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $10-15 |
| 🍺Beer at beer garden | $4-7 |
| 🚆Single public transport ticket | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Munich for day trips and rail access
- Powerful historical sites and quiet charm
- Good balance of nature, culture, and cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some tourist crowds at the memorial site
- Parking and traffic can be challenging during peak times
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Dachau
Visit one of these nice places.
A solemn, historically significant site with preserved camp barracks, memorials, and a museum; respectful photography allowed in designated areas.
A Baroque-era palace with formal gardens and views over the town; great for architecture and landscape photography.
Historic streets, timber-framed houses, the market square, and the Jakobskirche offer classic Bavarian town photography.
Scenic riverside paths with swans, reflections, and pastoral vistas, ideal for golden hour shots.
Food in Dachau
Dachau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional Bavarian veal sausage served with pretzels and sweet mustard; best enjoyed in the morning before noon.
Must-Try!
Roast pork with crackling, typically served with dumplings and gravy.
Crispy pork knuckle often paired with sauerkraut and potato dumplings.
Soft pretzels, a staple snack to accompany beer and sausages.
Creamy cheese noodles with onions; a comforting Bavarian classic.
Savory cheese spread served with bread; common at beer gardens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, breads, cheeses, and seasonal specialties.
A short train ride away; a vibrant market with a wide range of local foods, sausages, cheeses, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Grüß Gott' or 'Hallo'; use polite address in greeting, and a handshake on meeting.
Be punctual for appointments; avoid loud conversations in quiet places; respect personal space.
Wait to be seated in restaurants; keep hands visible on the table; try traditional foods when offered.
Safety
Tipping in Dachau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common if not included. Tipping is usually given in cash or added to a card payment.
Cash is widely accepted, but debit/credit cards and contactless payments are common in most shops, cafes, and restaurants; check for card acceptance in smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; carry a light jacket and an umbrella for showers.
Warm days with long daylight hours; perfect for outdoor dining and lake outings; stay hydrated.
Cooling days with colorful foliage and harvest markets; layers recommended.
Cold and often snowy; shorter daylight; enjoy indoor attractions and cozy cafés.
Dachau at Night
Hiking in Dachau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside hike and bike path along the Amper near Dachau.
Boardwalks through wetlands with birdwatching opportunities.
Extensive forested area east of Munich offering various hiking routes.
Airports
How to reach Dachau by plane.
Major international gateway about 30–40 minutes by train or car from Dachau; convenient for international arrivals and long-haul connections.
A secondary option about 1.5 hours by train or car; useful for regional travel and low-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Bavarian locals, families, and retirees, with a growing number of commuters to Munich.
Tourists visiting the memorial site, old town, and palace gardens.
A portion of residents study or work in Munich and return daily by train.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and matchdays are common in Bavaria.
Popular for leisure along rivers and forest trails; many routes available around Dachau and the Munich area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dachau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available: look for egg- and cheese-based dishes like Käsespätzle, vegetable dumplings, salads, and soups. In more traditional spots, ask for meat-free versions and no lard in soups.