A 3-Day Visit to the Bavarian Alps and Neuschwanstein Castle
Itinerary Summary
Your 3-day Bavarian Alps adventure will take you to three main destinations: Munich (your home base), Neuschwanstein Castle (a day trip), and the Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden (another day trip).
- Day 1 > Welcome to Germany! This day is all about settling in—dropping off your bags at the hotel, picking up a SIM card, handling any other essentials, and a short Munich city exploration. Once everything is sorted, you can dive into Munich’s rich culture, history, and stunning architecture.
- Day 2 > Get ready for a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, the most famous landmark in the Bavarian Alps. If time allows, you can also visit Linderhof Palace and the charming town of Oberammergau to make the most of your journey.
- Day 3 > Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Berchtesgaden. You’ll visit the Eagle’s Nest, an iconic historical site, and Königssee, one of Germany’s most picturesque lakes. If you have extra time, consider joining a tour of the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history. This itinerary blends culture, history, and nature, making for an unforgettable 3-day trip.
Note: While both Neuschwanstein Castle and Berchtesgaden are accessible by public transportation from Munich, I wouldn’t recommend relying on it entirely. Travel times can be long, cutting into the time you could spend exploring. I’ll dive into the details later, but, if possible, consider renting a car to maximize your time. Alternatively, joining a guided tour is a hassle-free way to experience these stunning destinations without worrying about logistics.
Day 1: Munich
Munich is the perfect starting point for your three-day Bavarian Alps adventure, whether you’re flying in or arriving from another European city. As Bavaria’s capital and the gateway to the Alps, it’s not just a transit hub—it’s a destination worth exploring. That’s why your journey includes time in Munich before heading to the mountains.
Arriving in the morning gives you a full afternoon and evening to experience the city’s charm. Start with a stroll through Marienplatz, the heart of Munich, where you can admire the stunning New Town Hall. Then, wander through Viktualienmarkt, a lively food market offering local delicacies.
For a relaxing start, you can take a peaceful walk in the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in Bavarian culture at the legendary Hofbräuhaus, where traditional beer and lively music create an unforgettable atmosphere.
If you’re chasing breathtaking views, head to the Olympic Tower. Standing at 291 meters, it offers the highest viewpoint in Munich. High-speed lifts whisk you up to the 185-meter viewing platform, where, on a clear day, you might even spot the distant peaks of the Alps.
Resources for Day 1
Day 2: Western Bavarian Alps (Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, Oberammergau)
Your second day in the Bavarian Alps promises to be a magical experience, with visits to two fairy-tale landmarks and a charming village that feels straight out of a storybook. Your must-see destinations are Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Oberammergau.
Neuschwanstein Castle is the crown jewel of the Bavarian Alps and should be your top priority. Exploring the castle and its breathtaking surroundings takes time, so if you’re visiting on your own and using public transportation, you might want to save Linderhof Palace and Oberammergau for another day. Traveling between these locations by bus can be tricky—there are no direct routes, and reaching Oberammergau and Linderhof Palace from Neuschwanstein requires two transfers, taking up to three hours. That’s a lot of time spent in transit instead of exploring.
If you have a car or a driver, however, seeing all three in one day is doable. Oberammergau is just a 45-minute drive from Neuschwanstein, and from there, Linderhof Palace is only 15 minutes away. For a hassle-free experience, consider joining a guided tour from Munich. Many tours cover all three locations in a single day, while others focus solely on Neuschwanstein Castle, allowing for a deeper dive into its history and stunning landscapes.
Neuschwanstein Castle is the definition of a fairytale come to life. Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, it blends Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine styles, creating a structure that feels both grand and otherworldly. Though designed to look medieval, the castle was surprisingly modern for its time, equipped with cutting-edge comforts of the 19th century.
Stepping into Neuschwanstein is like walking into a dream. Its soaring towers and intricate turrets are so enchanting that they inspired Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. But beyond its storybook charm, the castle holds a fascinating history—it was built as a secluded retreat for King Ludwig II and as a tribute to his favorite composer, Richard Wagner.
Perched dramatically on a rugged hill in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein offers breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you in awe. Inside, its lavish rooms are adorned with stunning frescos depicting Wagner’s operas and legendary German myths. To truly appreciate its history and intricate details, consider booking a guided tour—it’s the best way to immerse yourself in the magic of this iconic castle.
After leaving Neuschwanstein Castle, your next stop on the second day of your three-day Bavarian trip should be Oberammergau. It’s a convenient choice since it’s much closer, whether you’re traveling by car or bus. Despite its small size, Oberammergau has plenty to offer. While you could spend an entire day here, an hour is enough to experience what makes this village special in the Bavarian Alps.
Oberammergau is a charming town known for its rich history and culture. Its most famous tradition is the Passion Play, performed once every decade for over 400 years. This massive production involves nearly half the town’s residents, making it a true community event. As you explore, you’ll notice the intricate wood carvings in local shops—an art form deeply rooted in the town’s heritage. From religious figures to whimsical toys, these handcrafted pieces reflect centuries of craftsmanship.
The village’s architecture is equally fascinating. Many buildings feature stunning frescoes depicting Bavarian folklore, fairy tales, and religious scenes. This unique painting style, called “Lüftlmalerei,” originated here at Zum Lüftl, the home of renowned painter Franz Seraph Zwinck.
If your time is limited, start at the historic Passion Play Theater or Pilatushaus. Then, take a leisurely stroll through the town center, admiring the frescoes and visiting a few woodcarver shops. If you have a little extra time, stop by a cozy café to enjoy some authentic Bavarian cuisine before continuing your journey.
If you’ve fully immersed yourself in Neuschwanstein Castle on the morning of your second day in the Bavarian Alps, you might consider skipping Linderhof Palace. While each landmark has its own unique charm, both share a deep connection to King Ludwig II, leading to somewhat similar experiences. To add more variety to your trip, you may find it more rewarding to spend extra time exploring Oberammergau instead.
However, if you still wish to visit Linderhof Palace after Oberammergau and have enough time, there are several fascinating aspects to look forward to. Tucked away in the Ettaler Forest, Linderhof Palace is famous for its exquisite gardens and elaborate park buildings.
It is the smallest of King Ludwig II’s three palaces and the only one he saw completed. Inspired by Versailles, the palace features a breathtaking hall of mirrors and a dining room with a unique disappearing dumbwaiter built into the center of the table.
For a brief but fulfilling visit, start at the Moroccan House on your way from the parking lot, then pass the Royal Lodge—the original structure that stood before the palace was built. After touring the lavish interiors, take some time to appreciate the beautifully designed gardens to the east and west. Near the east garden, you’ll find St. Anna Chapel, the oldest building in the Linderhof complex. Conclude your visit at the Temple of Venus, where you’ll get the best panoramic view of the palace.
For more details on planning your visit, check out the palace’s official website.
Resources for Day 2
Day 3: Eastern Bavarian Alps (Berchtesgaden Eagle’s Nest, Salt Mine, Konigssee)
On the second day of your three-day trip to the Bavarian Alps, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Oberammergau, diving into the region’s rich history. On the third day, you’ll experience the stunning natural beauty of the Bavarian Alps, which is a must-see for any traveler.
But where should you go next? You have a few options, such as Mittenwald and Garmisch-Partenkirchen. However, I highly recommend Berchtesgaden, located in the southeastern corner of Germany. It offers a unique mix of experiences, from historical sites on top of mountains (like the Eagle’s Nest) to adventures below (like the Salt Mine), plus a visit to one of the cleanest and most scenic lakes in Germany, Konigssee.
Here’s how you can spend a day in Berchtesgaden visiting these attractions:
- Experience all: Konigssee (Morning) —> Eagle’s Nest (Lunch or Early Afternoon) —> Salt Mine (Late Afternoon)
- Nature focused: Konigssee (Whole morning until late lunch) —> Eagle’s Nest (Afternoon)
- Cloudy weather: Konigssee + Salt Mine + Old Town Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden’s close proximity to Salzburg, just a few kilometers away, adds another advantage to your trip. In just 30 minutes by car or an hour by public transportation, you can reach this Austrian city, expanding your travel experience beyond Bavaria. Salzburg is rich in history and culture, with landmarks tied to Mozart and “The Sound of Music,” along with many other attractions. You might even choose to end your journey here, as Salzburg’s airport provides a convenient departure point for your return home.
Given that Munich is about an hour and a half away by car or two and a half hours by train, a round trip from Munich to Berchtesgaden in a single day may not be the most efficient plan. Instead, a better itinerary would be to travel from Munich to Berchtesgaden, spend the day exploring its sights, and then continue to Salzburg. This approach maximizes your time and enhances your travel experience—highly recommended!
Unlike the second day of your three-day Bavarian Alps trip, where renting a car or joining a tour is essential to make the most of your day, the third day doesn’t require it as much. However, if it’s your first time in Berchtesgaden and you don’t have much time to plan, I’d recommend joining a tour. Visiting spots like Eagle’s Nest and Königssee can be a bit tricky, requiring multiple steps and some research to fully enjoy them.
But don’t worry! If you’d rather explore on your own, I’ve got you covered with all the details you’ll need in my posts which you’ll find in the resources section. Below is a breakdown of how you can spend your day in Berchtesgaden, visiting Eagle’s Nest, the Salt Mine, and Königssee.
Perched high on the Kehlstein Mountain, the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) is a historic site near Berchtesgaden in southeastern Germany. Built by the Nazis, it once hosted government and social meetings. Its remote location led the Allies to dub it the “Eagle’s Nest.”
Visiting this landmark is like stepping into the past. You’ll explore the very rooms where Nazi Party members once gathered. The architecture is remarkable, with features like a golden elevator and an iconic Italian marble fireplace. But the experience isn’t just about history—it also offers stunning panoramic views of the Bavarian Alps.
If you’re a foodie, the restaurant is a must-visit. Be sure to book a table on the outdoor terrace for the best views of Berchtesgaden and the lake.
For a memorable experience, I recommend visiting at lunchtime during a three-day trip to the Bavarian Alps. It’s a feast for both your eyes and taste buds. If you prefer a quieter experience, especially during peak season, an early morning visit may be ideal. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Before you go, check the Eagle’s Nest official website for important details. You’ll also find a live webcam offering a sneak peek of the current view. While the Eagle’s Nest is spectacular on clear days, consider exploring other attractions if the view is hidden by clouds.
Here is a quick summary of how you can get to Eagle’s Nest from Berchtesgaden:
- First, travel from Berchtesgaden Hbf to the Eagle’s Nest Bus Stop, also known as Kehlstein Busabfahrt. This is where you can also park your car.
- From the Eagle’s Nest Bus Stop, you’ll board the RVO Bus 849. This bus will take you to the Eagle’s Nest Tunnel, or Kehlsteinparkplatz. Please note that you’ll need to purchase separate tickets for this bus. Also, you cannot drive your car on this route. This part of the journey can only be covered by Bus 849.
- Finally, you’ll walk through the tunnel and ride the elevator to get to the Eagle’s Nest.
Berchtesgaden is home to Germany’s oldest salt mine, a fascinating landmark that adds even more charm to the area. If bad weather interrupts your visit to the Eagle’s Nest, the Salt Mine offers a great alternative, ensuring you won’t waste any time waiting for the skies to clear.
Nestled beneath the Bavarian Alps, the Salt Mine Berchtesgaden isn’t just any salt mine—it’s the oldest active one in Germany, dating back to before the 13th century. For centuries, it was the economic lifeline of the Berchtesgaden Provostry.
When you visit, you’ll embark on a journey deep into the mountains. A miners’ train will take you 650 meters (2,133 feet) below the surface, where you’ll discover a massive salt cathedral and get to slide down a thrilling miner’s slide. Throughout your tour, 3D animations will show you how salt mining works. But the real highlight is a boat trip across an underground Salt Lake. It’s a one-hour adventure that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Getting there from Old Town Berchtesgaden is straightforward. You can hop on a regional bus (RVO 837 or RVO 848) from the Berchtesgaden Hbf and get off at the Salzbergwerk (Salt Mine) stop. Just remember to check the current bus schedules and routes as they may vary.
Before setting off on your journey, it’s a good idea to visit the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine’s official website. This will provide you with any recent announcements that might affect your visit. Additionally, the website will have the most up-to-date information on opening hours. This will help you plan your visit to make the most of your time at the mine.
If you’re ever in Berchtesgaden, there’s one place you can’t miss—Konigssee. This is especially true for photographers or nature lovers. The stunning natural beauty here is bound to leave you in awe.
Tucked away in Berchtesgaden National Park, Konigssee is a sight to behold. This glacier-formed lake, Germany’s third deepest, is famous for its crystal-clear water. Surrounded by towering mountains, it’s often called the country’s most beautiful Alpine lake.
Picture yourself on a boat ride across the pristine water, with steep mountain walls rising dramatically around you. As you glide along, your boat guide will share fascinating stories and legends about the lake. The real highlight? When the guide plays a trumpet, and the sound echoes off the surrounding mountains. It’s a magical moment, as unforgettable as the scenery.
If you have 2 to 3 hours to spare, you can take the shortest boat ride, which stops at Saint Bartholomew Church, right in the middle of the lake. It’s the perfect spot to take in the breathtaking beauty of Konigssee.
The church at Konigssee is far from ordinary. It’s a Roman Catholic pilgrimage church with a deep, rich history. The original structure was built in 1134, and in 1697, it was rebuilt in a stunning Baroque style. Each year, a pilgrimage to St. Bartholomew’s takes place, beginning in the Austrian town of Maria Alm and crossing the Berchtesgaden Alps. This annual event only adds to the church’s historical significance.
Getting from Berchtesgaden to Konigssee is simple. If you’re using public transportation, just hop on bus no. 841 or 842. Both buses take you directly to Schoenau am Koenigssee. The ride is quick—bus no. 841 will get you there in about 10 minutes, while bus no. 842 takes around 20 minutes.
If you’re keen to explore Konigssee further, a visit to its official website is a must. Here, you’ll find the boat ride schedules that can help you plan your visit. The website also hosts a wealth of other important information and a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section. This can provide answers to any queries you might have about your visit.
Resources for Day 3
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Where to Go Next?
Bavarian Alps neighbor more beautiful sights, not only Salzburg.
Head south, and you’ll discover Innsbruck, the capital of the historic Tyrol region. Much like the towns in the Bavarian Alps, Innsbruck offers stunning alpine views, but that’s not all! Unique treasures await you, like the Innsbruck Court Church and Ambras Castle. In fact, simply strolling through the old town reveals landmarks such as the Golden Roof, where the region’s rich history comes to life. To reach Innsbruck, just take a one-hour train ride from Munich. Two days are ideal to explore all the must-see spots, though one day will cover the highlights.
On the other hand, head north to explore the rest of southern Germany’s incredible destinations. Take Nuremberg, for example, where you’ll find so much to see, you’ll want at least three days to experience it all.
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