Germany is known for many things, especially if you’re looking for outdoor activities in Munich.

Downing a few beers during Oktoberfest, eating bratwursts, and beautiful castles are honestly the first things that come to mind when I’m planning a trip there.

But what can you do in Munich to bring out the outdoor adventurer in you that’s a little more off-the-beaten-path?

Certainly, whether you’re staying at a superior serviced apartment in Munich or simply packing it up at a budget friendly hostel, there are a few things that you just can’t miss out on while traveling to this extraordinary region of Europe.

Top Outdoor Activities in Munich You Can’t Miss

Surfing in Munich

At the very southern tip of Englishcher Garten (aka the Beer Garden), you’ll find one very unlikely sport in central Europe…river surfing.

That’s right.  In a very small channel of the Isar River, over 100 locals a day flock to this one particular area in Munich’s large, central park.  These frigid waters certainly aren’t for the faint of heart and it is quite a feat considering the heaps of rocks in the area, however, you can pretty much guarantee a beautiful, fast-moving wave that rolls through the channel 24 hours a day.

Just remember, this spot is definitely for more experienced surfers, and with that experience comes a crowd of people cheering you on from the bridge above!

Munich Paragliding

What better way to look at Munich than from a bird’s eye view?

This outdoor adventure is one that just can’t be missed.  Available for people of all experience levels, taking a tandem paragliding tour above Germany’s beautiful backcountry is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.  The first time I ever went paragliding was with Aspen Paragliding during the winter months.

Since then, I’ve skydived and taken a paragliding course in various different locations.  I wouldn’t hesitate to do it again and would highly recommend anyone, first time or not, to get their feet off the ground and try it themselves.

Caving in Bad Tölz, Munich, Bavaria Germany

Did you know there is quite the impressive underground cave system just 52 kilometers (32 miles) outside of Munich?

Well, taking some time to venture underground is as impressive as it’s cracked up to be, and then some.  Similar to the Skyline Caverns I’ve visited outside of Washington D.C., you can find many interesting things such as an underwater flowing system as well as cave formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, draperies, flowstone, and much more.

The tour can take, on average, somewhere around 2-3 hours and is a fantastic day trip if you’ve got the time and a rental car to get you there!

What outdoor adventure activity would you like to explore in and around Munich?