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Berchtesgaden: Gateway to the Enchanting Bavarian Alps

Günter Seggebäing, Coesfeld, Berchtesgaden-banner, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Günter Seggebäing, Coesfeld, Berchtesgaden-banner, CC BY-SA 4.0
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Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Berchtesgaden? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Berchtesgaden.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Bavaria, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Bavaria here.

Nature in the city, relax and enjoy

Berchtesgaden offers a serene escape with its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can expect a harmonious blend of majestic mountains, lush greenery, and pristine waters. The area is perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In Berchtesgaden, tourists can relax at the Königssee, a stunning lake surrounded by mountains, where boat tours offer a calming experience on its clear waters. The Berchtesgaden National Park provides numerous trails for peaceful hikes amidst untouched nature. For a more structured relaxation, the Watzmann Therme offers a wellness experience with thermal baths, saunas, and spa treatments. The Almbachklamm gorge is another tranquil spot, ideal for a leisurely walk along its scenic paths. Visitors can also enjoy the quietude of the Hintersee, a picturesque lake perfect for a reflective stroll.

Culture and history, explore and discover

Berchtesgaden is a picturesque town nestled in the Bavarian Alps, offering a rich tapestry of history and culture. Visitors can expect to find a blend of natural beauty and historical depth, with opportunities to explore both the area's stunning landscapes and its storied past. The town's culture is deeply rooted in its alpine setting, with traditional Bavarian customs and architecture providing a charming backdrop to any visit.

In Berchtesgaden, tourists can explore the Eagle's Nest, a historical site perched atop the Kehlstein Mountain, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the area's WWII history. The Dokumentation Obersalzberg museum provides in-depth insights into the region's past, particularly during the Nazi era. The Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, one of the oldest in the world, offers guided tours that delve into the area's mining heritage. For architectural enthusiasts, the Royal Castle of Berchtesgaden showcases stunning examples of medieval and baroque architecture. Additionally, visitors can experience local culture through traditional Bavarian festivals and events, as well as savor regional cuisine at local eateries.

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Berchtesgaden?

Berchtesgaden offers a charming and accessible environment for getting around, with its compact town center making walking a convenient option. Public transportation, including buses, connects various parts of the area, while cycling provides an enjoyable way to explore the scenic surroundings. Ride-sharing services are available, adding flexibility to travel plans.

In the heart of Berchtesgaden, pedestrian-friendly zones make walking a pleasant experience, with well-marked paths leading to key attractions and local shops. The RVO bus network efficiently links the town to nearby destinations, with regular services to popular spots like Königssee and the Eagle's Nest. While there is no metro system, the bus network suffices for most travel needs. Ride-sharing options such as Uber are limited, but local taxi services offer an alternative. For cyclists, bike rentals are available at several outlets, providing a great way to enjoy the area's natural beauty. Practical tips include checking bus schedules in advance, especially during off-peak seasons, and considering e-bikes for tackling hilly terrain.

All sights sorted by distance from center

1 Berchtesgaden's Old Town: ⭐ The charming old town of Berchtesgaden is filled with narrow streets, colorful buildings, and traditional Bavarian architecture. It's a picturesque place to stroll, shop, and enjoy local cuisine. Distance in km: 0
2 The Royal Castle of Berchtesgaden: ⭐ Dating back to the 11th century, this historical castle offers guided tours that reveal its rich history and architectural beauty. It was once the summer residence of Bavarian kings. Distance in km: 0.39
3 The Salt Mine Berchtesgaden: ⭐ ⭐ Explore the fascinating world of salt mining in this historic mine that dates back to the 16th century. The guided tour includes a ride on a miner's train, slides down the miner's slides, and a boat ride on an underground lake. Distance in km: 1.52
4 The Documentation Center Obersalzberg: ⭐ ⭐ This museum provides a detailed examination of the history of Obersalzberg and the Third Reich. It's located on the site of Hitler's former mountain retreat, offering insights into the area's dark past and its transformation over the years. Distance in km: 2.94
5 Eagle's Nest: A historic site located atop Kehlstein Mountain, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into WWII history. Distance in km: 3.71
6 Wimbachklamm: ⭐ The Wimbachklamm is a spectacular gorge carved by the Wimbach stream. Wooden walkways allow visitors to explore this natural wonder, where waterfalls and rapids cascade through narrow rock formations. Distance in km: 7.14
7 Königssee: A deep lake located in the Berchtesgaden National Park, known for its clear water and the echo of the Königssee trumpet. Distance in km: 8.62
8 St. Bartholomew's Church: A Roman Catholic pilgrimage church in the Bavarian Alps, located on the western shore of the Königssee lake. Distance in km: 9.73
9 Berchtesgaden National Park: ⭐ A beautiful alpine park offering hiking, breathtaking landscapes, and the pristine Königssee lake. Distance in km: 10.63
10 Lake Chiemsee: Often referred to as the Bavarian Sea, this large freshwater lake offers recreational activities and stunning alpine views. Distance in km: 48.97

Day plans for your trip

Day plan 1: Discover the serene beauty of Königssee and delve into the depths of Berchtesgaden's salt mine history, all while savoring Bavarian delights.
Königssee
A stunning lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for a boat tour or a peaceful walk.
Average length of stay 3 hours
Echostüberl
A cozy restaurant offering traditional Bavarian cuisine with a view of the lake.
1 hour
Food tip: Try the Bavarian roast pork with dumplings.
Berchtesgaden Salt Mine
Experience the history of salt mining in the region with an exciting underground tour.
2 hours
Cafe Forstner
A charming cafe perfect for a coffee break and sampling local desserts.
30 minutes
Food tip: Enjoy a slice of traditional Apfelstrudel.
Berchtesgaden National Park
Explore the natural beauty of the Alps with various hiking trails and stunning vistas.
2 hours
Gasthof Neuhaus
A historic inn offering hearty Bavarian meals in a rustic setting.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Savor the Wiener Schnitzel with potato salad.
Day plan 2: Ascend to the historic Eagle's Nest for breathtaking views, and explore the enchanting Wimbachklamm Gorge amidst Bavarian charm.
Eagle's Nest
A historical site with panoramic views, once a retreat for Hitler.
Average length of stay 3 hours
Gasthof Auzinger
A traditional Bavarian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
1 hour
Food tip: Try the Kaiserschmarrn, a traditional Austrian dessert.
Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden
Visit the picturesque St. Sebastian Church and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
2 hours
Cafe Reber
A delightful cafe known for its chocolates and pastries.
30 minutes
Food tip: Sample the famous Mozartkugeln chocolates.
Wimbachklamm Gorge
A beautiful gorge with waterfalls and wooden walkways, perfect for a short hike.
1 hour
Berggasthof Oberkälberstein
A mountain inn offering delicious local dishes with a view.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Enjoy the local trout specialty.
Day plan 3: Uncover the past at Dokumentation Obersalzberg, and enjoy a cable car adventure on Jennerbahn with panoramic alpine vistas.
Dokumentation Obersalzberg
A museum providing insights into the history of the Nazi regime in the region.
Average length of stay 2 hours
Gasthaus Cafe Graflhöhe Windbeutelbaron
A unique cafe known for its giant cream puffs and scenic views.
1 hour
Food tip: Try the Windbeutel, a large cream puff dessert.
Almbachklamm
A beautiful gorge with a scenic hiking trail and crystal-clear streams.
2 hours
Cafe Lockstein
A cozy spot for a coffee break with a view of the mountains.
30 minutes
Food tip: Enjoy a slice of Black Forest cake.
Jennerbahn
Take a cable car ride up the mountain for breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
2 hours
Restaurant Waldhauser Bräu
A traditional Bavarian restaurant with a great selection of local beers.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Try the Bavarian beer and sausages.