A 10-Day Trip to Bavarian Alps Visiting the Highlights

Munich is the perfect place to start a journey into the Bavarian Alps. With direct flights from all over the world, getting there is easy, and the city has everything needed to gear up—SIM cards, warm clothing, rental cars—no hassle, no stress.

It’s tempting to rush straight to the mountains, but Munich itself is worth exploring first.

The city is alive with history and culture. Marienplatz, the heart of the Old Town, is a great first stop. The towering New Town Hall is stunning, and just nearby, St. Peter’s Church offers one of the best views in the city from its tower. A short walk leads to the English Garden, where surfers ride the Eisbach wave—right in the middle of the city. It’s a sight that never gets old.

Before leaving for the Alps, catching one last view of Munich is a must. The Olympic Tower, one of the tallest buildings in Bavaria, offers an incredible panorama. On a clear day, the mountains stretch across the horizon, a perfect preview of the adventure ahead.

On the second day of a 10-day journey through Bavaria, the adventure continues with a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle.

This fairytale-like masterpiece is one of Germany’s most breathtaking sights and well worth the day trip from Munich. Just next door, Hohenschwangau Castle stands as a quieter but equally fascinating counterpart. Both castles, rich in history and charm, feel like stepping straight into the past.

Neuschwanstein, perched high on a rugged hill, is the true showstopper. Its dramatic towers and dreamy architecture even inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. Inside, every room reflects the eccentric vision of King Ludwig II, with ornate designs, grand halls, and hidden symbolism woven into the decor. A guided tour is the best way to experience it all, offering stories about Ludwig’s life and the castle’s construction.

One of the most interesting details is hidden in plain sight—the cafeteria area of Neuschwanstein. Look closely, and you’ll find unfinished sketches, steel bars, and remnants of the castle’s incomplete construction, a reminder that Ludwig’s dream was never fully realized.

For the best view, Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) is the place to be. From here, the sight of Neuschwanstein with the Alpine lake and Bavaria’s largest nature preserve in the background is absolutely stunning.

If it’s a first visit—especially in summer—joining a group tour from Munich is a great idea. Many offer skip-the-line tickets, avoiding long waits and the hassle of finding parking, which can be a challenge during peak season. With more time to explore, the experience becomes even more magical.

On the morning of day three of your 10-day Bavarian adventure, it’s time to say goodbye to Munich.

But before you hit the road, don’t forget to grab a few souvenirs! Old Town Munich is filled with shops offering everything from traditional trinkets to local delicacies. Hauptbahnhof has great options too, but if there’s one place you shouldn’t miss, it’s Herrmann Geschenke. This shop has been selling high-quality, traditional Bavarian gifts for around 60 years, and it’s the perfect spot to pick up something truly special.

Next, it’s off to the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, or GaPa, just an hour’s drive or a two-hour train ride from Munich. Nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, GaPa is a great base for exploring the region. With plenty of places to stay, eat, and shop, you’ll find everything you need.

From here, you can easily reach top attractions like Eibsee, Zugspitze, and the picturesque villages of Mittenwald and Oberammergau. But before heading out to explore the surroundings, take some time to enjoy GaPa itself.

Start by strolling through the scenic streets of Ludwigstrasse, and don’t miss the Parish Church of Saint Martin. The village houses are decorated with colorful murals, adding a unique artistic flair to the area. If you’ve got extra time, make sure to visit the Olympic Ski Jump. Used in the 1936 Winter Olympics, it’s a symbol of the unification of Garmisch and Partenkirchen and offers great views of the town.

Day four of your 10-day Bavarian adventure takes you to two of the most stunning natural wonders in the Bavarian Alps: Eibsee and Zugspitze. Since you’re already in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, getting to both is easy and convenient.

First up is Eibsee, a breathtaking lake located just southwest of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Known for its crystal-clear, emerald-green waters, Eibsee is surrounded by towering mountains and offers some of the most beautiful views in the Bavarian Alps. Whether you’re an adventure lover or simply looking for a peaceful spot to relax, Eibsee has something for everyone. You can hike along its shores, rent a kayak, or just take in the scenery.

After soaking in the beauty of Eibsee, it’s time to head to Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. Standing at 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) above sea level, Zugspitze offers panoramic views of the Alps, including Germany’s two largest glaciers. You’ll even find the country’s highest beer garden up at the top.

Eibsee and Zugspitze are so close to each other that it’s easy to visit both in one day. From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Eibsee is only about a 10-minute drive along Eibseestraße if you have a car. Or, you can take public transport with trains and buses that are available.

The journey to Zugspitze is an adventure on its own. You can take the Eibsee-Seilbahn cable car, which reaches the peak in just 10 minutes. If you’d prefer a slower pace, there’s also a scenic train ride that starts in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, passes through Grainau and Eibsee, and climbs up to the Zugspitze Glacier Plateau. From there, hop on the Glacier Cable Car to reach the top.

Before heading up to Zugspitze, it’s a good idea to check out the live camera feed on the official websites of Eibsee and Zugspitze. The live feed gives you a real-time look at conditions on the mountain, helping you decide if the summit is worth the trip on the day of your visit.

The Bavarian Alps offer more than just mountains and lakes; they’re home to charming villages like Mittenwald. Located just east of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Mittenwald is a village that will steal your heart.

Getting there from Garmisch-Partenkirchen is simple—just hop on a train, and you’ll be there in no time. What makes Mittenwald stand out? The houses are decorated with colorful murals called Lüftlmalerei, adding a unique charm to the village and making it a must-see during your visit to the Alps.

Despite its small size, Mittenwald has plenty to offer. It was once famous for violin making, and you can visit the Violin Museum to learn more. But there are two standout attractions in Mittenwald that you shouldn’t miss: the Karwendel cable car and the Leutasch Gorge. Let me tell you more about them.

The Karwendel cable car, or Karwendelbahn, is one of the village’s top highlights. It takes you up to the Karwendelspitze peak, which stands 2,385 meters above sea level. The ride offers incredible views of the Isar Valley as you ascend.

At the top, you’ll find the Bergwelt Karwendel, an information center dedicated to environmental issues. It’s Germany’s highest exhibition about the fragile ecosystem of the Karwendel mountain range.

The Leutasch Gorge, located near Mittenwald and Unterleutasch on the Bavarian-Tyrolean border, is another must-see. This stunning gorge is carved by the Leutascher Ache river as it cuts through steep cliffs. The area is steeped in local folklore, with legends of spirits and ghosts adding an element of magic to the experience.

One of the best things about the Bavarian Alps is the variety of experiences it offers. As you head into the sixth day of your trip, get ready to discover what makes this region truly special. Two attractions stand out: Ettal Abbey and Linderhof Palace. These sites will add a unique twist to your journey, so prepare for an exciting day ahead!

Ettal Abbey, located in the village of Ettal in Bavaria, has been a Benedictine monastery since Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian founded it in 1330. Today, it’s one of the largest Benedictine communities, home to more than 50 monks.

What makes it so remarkable is its breathtaking architecture, considered one of Bavaria’s finest, drawing visitors from around the world. Be sure to check out Ettal Abbey’s official website for more details on what experiences it offers.

Linderhof Palace, nestled in the beautiful Graswang Valley in southwest Bavaria, is one of King Ludwig II’s most famous creations. Though it’s the smallest of his three palaces, it’s the only one he saw finished. Linderhof’s charm lies in its beautiful rococo architecture and its peaceful, remote setting. You can learn more on the Linderhof Palace website.

Ettal Abbey and Linderhof Palace are conveniently close to each other, making them perfect for a day trip from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Both are located in Ettal, so getting between them is easy. From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, you can reach Ettal Abbey in just a 15-minute drive or a 30-minute ride on bus #9606.

After exploring Ettal Abbey, Linderhof Palace is only 15 minutes away by car or a 30-minute bus ride on bus #9622. To head back to Garmisch-Partenkirchen from Linderhof Palace, take bus #9622 to Ettal Abbey, then switch to bus #9606 to Oberau. From there, catch a train back to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

For the most up-to-date bus schedules, visit the Regio Bus Bayern website.

On day seven of your 10-day Bavarian Alps journey, you’ll find yourself in Oberammergau, a charming town tucked away in the Alps. It’s just a 20-minute drive or a 40-minute bus ride from Garmisch-Partenkirchen, along the direct #9606 route.

Oberammergau is known for the Passion Play, a remarkable tradition that takes place every ten years. It all started in 1634 when the locals vowed to put on the play after a devastating plague, and it’s since become a global sensation. Even if the play isn’t happening, you can still visit the Passionstheater, where it’s performed, and get a glimpse of its rich history.

The town is also famous for its woodcarvers, and at Pilatushaus, you can see them in action, crafting everything from intricate figurines to detailed artwork. And just like in Mittenwald, the buildings here are covered in Lüftlmalerei murals, telling stories from the Bible or simply showing portraits of local residents.

If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the Parish Church of St. Peter and Paul, where hidden behind its simple exterior are breathtaking frescoes by Matthew Guenther.

But it’s not all history and art in Oberammergau—there’s also adventure waiting for you. The Alpine Coaster, just outside the village, offers an exciting ride. Starting at Kolbensattel, 1,258 meters above sea level, the coaster stretches for 2,600 meters, with 73 curves, 9 jumps, and 7 waves. As you race down the mountain at speeds of up to 40 km/h, the wind rushes by and the incredible views of the Bavarian Alps surround you.

On the eighth day of the 10-day Bavarian adventure, it’s time to say goodbye to the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen and head to Berchtesgaden. While both towns are tucked in the Bavarian Alps, they’re pretty far apart, with the drive taking over two hours.

If you’re relying on public transportation, it’s best to leave Garmisch-Partenkirchen early so there’s plenty of time to explore Berchtesgaden, starting with the famous Salt Mine. The train ride can take four to five hours, as there are no direct connections. You’ll need to stop in Munich before catching the fastest train to Berchtesgaden.

Once you arrive, it might be tempting to dive into Berchtesgaden’s scenic spots—Konigssee, Obersee, and Eagle’s Nest. But those are best saved for later; Konigssee and Obersee deserve a full day, and Eagle’s Nest is perfect for a lunch stop on the last day.

So, after getting to Berchtesgaden, head straight to the Salt Mine and take a stroll through the Old Town. The Salt Mine is one of the area’s biggest attractions, and it offers an amazing look at the town’s past. If there’s time afterward, the Royal Castle has a guided tour that gives even more insight into the history of the place.

But without a doubt, the Salt Mine will be the day’s highlight. It’s the oldest active salt mine in Germany, and going 650 meters underground is an unforgettable experience. You’ll travel by miner’s train to explore the salt caves, which include a breathtaking salt cathedral, an exciting miner’s slide, and even a boat ride across an underground salt lake. The 3D animations that show how the salt is mined make it all come to life.

For more details, check out the Salt Mine’s official website, where you can find out what to expect and book your tickets in advance.

It’s day 9 of your Bavarian Alps adventure. Here’s what you need to do: wake up early and head to Konigssee right after breakfast. If you’re lucky with the weather, the lake will look absolutely breathtaking.

The water is usually perfectly still before the boats start leaving the ports around 8:00 am, creating a mirror-like reflection of the surrounding mountains. You’ll be glad to experience it if the conditions align!

Konigssee is located in Schönau am Königssee, just south of Berchtesgaden. If you’re using public transportation, you can catch the RVO bus numbers 839, 841, or 843 from the Berchtesgaden bus station, and it’ll take you straight there.

The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and is considered the cleanest lake in Germany. Since 1909, only electric-powered passenger boats, rowboats, and pedal boats have been allowed on the lake.

During your boat ride, you’ll get a view of the Church of Saint Bartholomew, with its iconic red domes sitting on the lake’s shore. From the boat, you’ll also see the Watzmann Massif in the background, creating a stunning scene. The lake is famous for its echo, and it’s one of the few places in the world where you can hear a third-order echo. The boat tour guides will even demonstrate this by playing the flugelhorn during the trip.

The round-trip boat ride to Konigssee typically takes around 4 hours, but since you’ll be visiting another lake, expect it to take longer.

From the southern end of the lake, known as Salet, you can take a short hike to Obersee, a lake famous for its stunning natural beauty. Surrounded by steep rock faces, the calm, clear water mirrors the landscape, creating a breathtaking view. If you love photography, Obersee is a must-see.

If you have extra time, consider hiking to Rothbach, Germany’s tallest waterfall. The round trip will take about 2.5 hours. A key piece of advice: if you plan to hike to Rothbach, make sure you time it well to catch the last boat back from Salet. Also, be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the hike!

You can check the latest schedule on Konigssee’s official website, where you’ll also find helpful tips, frequently asked questions, and excursion information to help you plan your visit.

Your 10-day adventure in the Bavarian Alps wraps up with a visit to the Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden, offering one of the most breathtaking views of the Alps. This is your final stop in the Bavarian Alps before heading to Salzburg for your return flight.

While Munich is also an option with its many flight connections, Salzburg is closer to Berchtesgaden and much more convenient. Salzburg, one of Austria’s most captivating cities, is worth an extra two or three days of exploration.

If you’re short on time, consider a brief stroll through the city to capture its charm before you leave. Dive into the city’s rich history with the Prince Archbishops and visit iconic spots from The Sound of Music.

The Eagle’s Nest is the perfect way to end your trip. From here, you get a view that sums up your entire experience in the Bavarian Alps. If the weather’s clear, you can see the mountains, lakes, and charming towns that define the region.

Perched high on Kehlstein peak, the Eagle’s Nest is not only a spot of natural beauty but also rich in history. It was once a retreat for members of the Nazi Party, making it a unique stop for anyone interested in World War II. As you visit, you’ll learn about this period in history and the role the Eagle’s Nest played. Today, it’s home to a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal on the terrace, taking in the incredible alpine views.

Getting to the Eagle’s Nest is easy if you’re in Berchtesgaden. Start by taking the RVO bus 849 from the Berchtesgaden main train station. It’ll get you to the Eagle’s Nest parking area in about 15 minutes. From there, you’ll transfer to a special bus, the only one allowed to drive up the road to the Eagle’s Nest. After the bus ride, you’ll walk through a tunnel and take an elevator—an impressive brass-lined lift that travels right through the mountain to the Eagle’s Nest.

For detailed information and to book tickets online, visit the official Eagle’s Nest website.