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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.
Attraction
Park / Garden

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.

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

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas 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.

1. Berchtesgaden National Park: A stunning national park offering breathtaking alpine scenery.

Berchtesgaden National Park is a pristine natural reserve located in the Bavarian Alps. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, and discover the rich biodiversity of the region. The park is home to the famous Königssee, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by towering peaks, and the Watzmann, Germany's third-highest mountain. It's an ideal spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
2. Königssee: A picturesque lake known for its emerald waters and serene surroundings.

Königssee is a glacial lake nestled in the heart of Berchtesgaden National Park. It is renowned for its deep, emerald-green waters and the stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the lake, visit the iconic St. Bartholomew's Church, and enjoy the tranquility of the area. The lake is a popular destination for nature lovers and offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and photography.

Type: green_area | Fee: Varies for boat tours
3. Almbachklamm Gorge: A scenic gorge with waterfalls and hiking trails.

Almbachklamm Gorge is a beautiful natural attraction located near Berchtesgaden. Visitors can hike through the gorge along well-maintained trails and enjoy the sight of cascading waterfalls and unique rock formations. The gorge offers a refreshing escape into nature and provides opportunities for photography and exploration. It's a lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded tourist spots.

Type: green_area | Fee: Approx. 6 EUR
4. Wimbachklamm: A narrow gorge with rushing streams and lush vegetation.

Wimbachklamm is a narrow gorge located near the village of Ramsau, close to Berchtesgaden. The gorge is famous for its dramatic scenery, with rushing streams and lush green vegetation lining the path. A wooden walkway allows visitors to safely explore the gorge and take in the natural beauty. It's an easy and rewarding hike, suitable for families and those looking for a short excursion into nature.

Type: green_area | Fee: Approx. 2 EUR
5. Hintersee: A tranquil alpine lake surrounded by forests and mountains.

Hintersee is a serene alpine lake located near the village of Ramsau. It is surrounded by dense forests and dramatic mountain peaks, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the lake, rent a rowboat, or simply relax and take in the stunning views. The area is also popular with photographers and artists due to its picturesque landscapes.

Type: green_area | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Tourist-Information Bergerlebnis Berchtesgaden im AlpenCongress

Tourist information center

Address: Maximilianstraße 9, 83471 Berchtesgaden, Germany
2. Tourist Information in Königssee

Tourist information center

Address: Seestraße 3, 83471 Schönau am Königssee, Germany
3. Tourist Information Schoenau am Koenigssee

Tourist information center

Address: Rathauspl. 1, 83471 Schönau am Königssee, Germany
4. Nationalpark-Informationsstelle Hintersee

Tourist information center

Address: Hirschbichlstraße 26, 83486 Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden, Germany

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.