Berchtesgaden Day Trip From Salzburg: Must Things to Do

Looking for a scenic escape from Salzburg? Look no further than Berchtesgaden, just 24 kilometers south of the city.

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Berchtesgaden is a charming town that offers breathtaking alpine views and unforgettable experiences in nature. In addition to its natural beauty, Berchtesgaden is also home to a World War II historic site and an 800-year-old salt mine, making it a worthwhile destination especially for history buffs and wanderers.  

Here, I will provide you with ideas on how to spend a day visiting Berchtesgaden from Salzburg. You will also find options for convenient Berchtesgaden day trips from Salzburg, helpful tips, and everything you need to know before your visit. So, let’s get started!

This post may contain affiliate links. I may receive a tiny commission at no additional cost to you from any qualifying purchases using the link.

One of the things I love about Salzburg is its location, surrounded by natural beauty from the Salzkammergut to the Bavarian Alps.

While you don’t have to leave Austria or Salzburg for breathtaking alpine scenery, Berchtesgaden offers a unique experience that will make your trip in this part of Europe even more special.

Look:

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View from the hill that’s a 10-minute walk from Old Town Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany
View from the hill that’s a 10-minute walk from Old Town Berchtesgaden
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And the best part? It’s so easy to get Berchtesgaden from Salzburg — just a few dozen kilometers away.

You can drive there in 40 minutes, take a single bus ride of 50 minutes to an hour, or hop on a train for an hour and 30 minutes with a transfer. 

Is It Worth Going to Berchtesgaden? (From Salzburg)

I know, I know! The view from Berchtesgaden is breathtaking! It’s irresistible, especially that it’s very close to Salzburg.

But before you plan a day trip from Salzburg, let’s make sure it’s the right destination for you and you’re making the right decision.

If you have already decided to visit Berchtesgaden, you can click here to go straight to the list of unmissable things to do in Berchtesgaden.

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Berchtesgaden scenic town center, a day trip from Salzburg, in Bavaria, Germany
Berchtesgaden scenic town center
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1. Consider Berchtesgaden Overall Experience

First of all, it’s important to remember that Berchtesgaden is all about nature, history, and salt — its local industry since the medieval ages.

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Different tourist attractions in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a Salzburg Day Trip
Different tourist attractions in Berchtesgaden
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If you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, taking in breathtaking views, or learning about history, Berchtesgaden is a trip you won’t want to miss.

In fact, Berchtesgaden is home to the “Eagle’s Nest,” a tourist attraction that is both scenic and historic.

It was once a vital location for the Germans during World War II, and it overlooks the entire town of Berchtesgaden.

Berchtesgaden is also home to a salt mine that dates back to the early 16th century, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore a whole new world beneath the majestic mountains.

While it may seem like an attraction geared towards adults, it’s actually a fun destination for families and kids, too!

Since you will be coming from Salzburg, where you have probably learned about salt (salt has been Salzburg’s primary industry for centuries), your visit to the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine shall be a chance to learn more about how salt was extracted in the region.

Finally, Berchtesgaden is surrounded by stunning lakes that are an absolute must-see for nature lovers. Pristine, picturesque, and truly magical — that’s how I would describe them.

One of Berchtesgaden’s lakes, Konigssee, even has a charming church in the middle that looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Trust me, when you visit, you’ll be left speechless by its beauty.

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Do these make you feel excited? In my case, it’s always!

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2. Consider Berchtesgaden’s Season and Weather

Salzburg is a great destination to visit year-round. Berchtesgaden has close proximity to Salzburg.

Both are true, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that Berchtesgaden is also worth visiting at any time of the year.

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Berchtesgaden during the summer and winter, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Berchtesgaden during the summer and winter
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The best time to visit Berchtesgaden from Salzburg is during the non-winter months, when the weather is ideal for sightseeing and most tourist attractions are open.

It may be better to stay in Salzburg during the winter and enjoy the Christmas special events and musical performances in its Old Town, instead of visiting Berchtesgaden unless you’re interested in skiing and winter sports.

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Bad weather vs perfect weather in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Bad weather vs perfect weather in Berchtesgaden
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So, with all that said, is Berchtesgaden worth visiting during summer, warmer, dry months?

Not always. You should consider the weather, especially if you want to go to the mountains or Eagle’s Nest.

If the weather is bad, you might not be able to see any view because of the fog, and the cable cars or buses to the mountains might not run for some safety reasons.

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View with fog and view with cloud clearing in the Berchtesgaden National Park Mountains, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
View with fog and view with cloud clearing in the Berchtesgaden National Park Mountains
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In case you really want to see Berchtesgaden, it’ll be a good idea to have a flexible itinerary and a backup plan in case you can’t go on the day you planned.

Monitor the weather forecast and the live webcam feed, which displays the current weather conditions in the mountains.

The link to live broadcast can be found in the resources section of this post.

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3. Consider Berchtesgaden’s Events and Festivals

Festivals and cultural events are a great way to create lasting memories while traveling. They offer a unique and fun way to discover the culture of a place.

In Berchtesgaden, there are several events that you might enjoy.

These fascinating and fun events are a great reason to take a day trip to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg, no matter the season.

You can check the official website of Berchtesgaden for a calendar of events (see the link in the resources section).

However, some events that I recommend checking out are the Fasching Festival, May Day Celebration, and the Great Bavarian Evenings.

So, what is the Fasching Festival?

It’s a lively pre-Lent celebration that takes place in February, similar to Carnival or Mardi Gras.

You can immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy traditional music, dancing, and delicious food and beer.

And if you’re lucky enough to attend when the festival falls over Valentine’s Day, you might even get to see couples participating in wheelbarrow races

If you’re traveling during Spring, May Day Celebration is the event to watch out for. This joyous event is all about celebrating the fertility of the season. 

The festivities kick off with the raising of the towering May Pole, which can reach heights of up to 50 feet.

Get ready to dance to the sounds of brass band music and enjoy local food and drinks at the temporary beer gardens!

I’m sure that many of you are planning to visit Berchtesgaden during the summer. So, I must mention the Great Bavarian Evenings.

Every Monday evening from June to September, Market Square in Berchtesgaden comes alive with authentic bands and men’s performing groups doing thigh-slapping, heel-whacking dances called Schuhplattler.

The evening continues with brass band music and a live DJ. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and have some fun! 

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5 Unmissable Things to Do in Berchtesgaden on A Day Trip

Although there are more than a dozen things to do in Berchtesgaden, such as visiting the mirror-like lake (Hintersee) and exploring the canyon (Wimbachklamm), a day trip from Salzburg would be just enough to see Berchtesgaden’s highlights.

They’re the unmissable things to do in Berchtesgaden and you’ll find them within this section. 

Maximize your Salzburg adventure by checking out these Salzburg Travel Inspiration posts. They’ll help you find the perfect experiences to suit your preferences

5 Beautiful Day Trips From Salzburg (Nearest Destinations)

10 Unique Things to Do in Salzburg, Austria

The Beauty of Salzburg: 7 Beautiful Things to See

5 Spots In Salzburg to see Sunset or Sunrise (With a Map)

20 Sights and Landmarks in Salzburg: History & Architecture

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1. Eagle’s Nest (Kehlstein)

Eagle’s Nest or Kehlsteinhaus is a unique attraction in Berchtesgaden, a must-visit for the breathtaking views and a glimpse into history it offers to visitors.

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Eagle’s Nest Panorama overlooking Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Eagle’s Nest Panorama overlooking Berchtesgaden
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Perched atop the summit of the Kehlstein, a rocky outcrop rising above Obersalzberg, sits the Kehlsteinhaus.

Known in English as the Eagle’s Nest, this Nazi-constructed building was once used exclusively by members of the Nazi Party for government and social meetings, and was even visited by Adolf Hitler on 14 documented occasions.

Today, however, it has been transformed into a seasonal restaurant, beer garden, and tourist site.

While Eagle’s Nest looks like just a building or restaurant on a mountaintop, it’s actually a marvel of engineering.

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Eagle’s Nest restaurant with scenic mountains in the backdrop in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Eagle’s Nest restaurant with scenic mountains in the backdrop in Berchtesgaden
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From the winding mountain road to the regal elevator powered by a submarine engine, every detail of this structure is noteworthy.

Remarkably, the Eagle’s Nest survived the Second World War unscathed, meaning that everything you see here is original and not reconstructed. 

History buffs will appreciate the sun terrace outside, which features a series of display panels detailing the history of this place.

Interestingly, there you’ll learn that despite being built for Hitler, he rarely visited and never stayed overnight due to his fear of heights!

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Pieces of history in Eagle’s Nest, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Pieces of history in Eagle’s Nest
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Are you now interested in visiting Eagle’s Nest? Here’s how to…

Your journey to the Eagle’s Nest begins at Berchtesgaden Hbf, where you’ll board RVO Bus 838 to the Eagles Nest Bus Stop (Kehlstein Busabfahrt).

From there, you’ll need to purchase a ticket for the special RVO bus 849, which will whisk you up to the Eagles Nest Tunnel or parking area known as Kehlsteinparkplatz, where the last leg of the journey to Eagle’s Nest will begin.

For the more adventurous, there is also the option to hike up to the Eagle’s Nest, though be warned that it is a long and challenging trek (taking at least 2-3 hours) — I do not recommend it!

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Eagle's Nest beautiful wood-carved signage, tunnel, and different views, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Eagle’s Nest beautiful wood-carved signage, tunnel, and different views
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The final leg of your journey involves walking through a cold, dark tunnel from Kehlsteinparkplatz before riding a gleaming, brass elevator all the way up to the Eagle’s Nest itself.

You can’t take photos in the elevator, though. 

Before you go, it’s important to note that the Eagle’s Nest is not a year-round attraction. It is only open to visitors from mid-May to October.

During this time, the Kehlsteinhaus is open from 8:30am to 4:50pm, with the last bus from Kehlsteinparkplatz departing at 4:50pm. So be sure to plan your visit accordingly!

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Architectural features of Eagle's Nest - tunnel and fire place, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Architectural features of Eagle’s Nest – tunnel and fire place
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Please see the official website of Eagle’s Nest in the resources section of this post for latest information.

Bus schedules and online ticketing site included.

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2. Salt Mine Berchtesgaden

As you explore the charming city of Salzburg, you’ll undoubtedly hear the word ‘salt’ mentioned time and time again.

After all, this city was named after the precious mineral that brought it prosperity for centuries — the white gold of the region!

A visit to the Salt Mine Berchtesgaden is a must for anyone looking to further discover the industry that sustained the region for so long.

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River under the mountain in Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
River under the mountain in Salt Mine Berchtesgaden
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The Salt Mine Berchtesgaden is an ancient mine that has been in operation since 1517, making it the oldest salt mine in Germany. It boasts salt deposits up to 300 meters below the valley floor.

When you venture inside, you’ll discover a breathtaking salt cathedral in an extraordinary way — by taking an exhilarating ride down a miner’s slide.

In some parts, you’ll be learning the formation and extraction of salt during train and boat rides.

You will be following the Salt Experience Trail through the mystical Moserrösche mine gallery, a tunnel that stretches over 100 meters and reveals the structure of a glacial moraine.

With 3D animations and an underground boat trip across a salt lake, it’s an almost one-hour tour adventure for all ages. 

At the end of your walk, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the Watzmann.

While the tours are conducted in German, audio guides are available in other languages.

Taking photos isn’t allowed during the tour, though.

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Outside Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Outside Salt Mine Berchtesgaden
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But don’t worry about not being able to take photos during the tour — above ground, you’ll find perfect photo stops around the Salt Mine and on the Salt Experience Trail. 

There are life-size miners and mining machines providing the perfect backdrop for your souvenir photo of the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine.

Getting to the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine couldn’t be easier, thanks to its convenient location along the bus no. 840 route.

Just hop off at the Salzbergwerk bus stop and take a short walk to the Salt Mine visitor’s entrance.

This bus route links Berchtesgaden and Salzburg, so if you’re coming from Salzburg and prefer to use public transportation, the Salt Mine Berchtesgaden is an easy first stop on your Berchtesgaden day trip.

The Salt Mine Berchtesgaden is usually open all year round, from April to the first week of November. It is open daily from 9:00 am until 5:00 pm. From the second week of November until March, it is open daily from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm.

However, it is always best to check the official website of Salt Mine Berchtesgaden for updates and latest information, as the opening hours may change due to holidays or other unforeseen circumstances.

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3. Königssee 

While Salzburg has a number of lakes in Salzkammergut and its lake district, when it comes to beauty, they are outmatched by Konigssee

It’s the enchanting lake nestled in the heart of the Berchtesgaden Alps, in the town of Schönau, just a stone’s throw away from the charming town of Berchtesgaden.

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Tranquil scenery in Konigssee, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Tranquil scenery in Konigssee
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This stunning lake, Germany’s third deepest, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters — so pure that it’s known as the cleanest lake in all of Germany!

To preserve its natural beauty, only electric-powered passenger ships, rowing boats and pedal boats are allowed to grace its tranquil waters.

Truly, Königssee is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers.

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The stunning scenery you'll see during a boat ride in Konigssee, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
The stunning scenery you’ll see during a boat ride in Konigssee
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However, it is also a magical place for everyone; all because of its incredible echo.

The surrounding sheer rock walls create an echo — so clear that it has become a tradition for boat tours to stop and play a flugelhorn or trumpet to demonstrate this phenomenon.

The sound reverberates up to seven times, creating a mesmerizing symphony of echoes that is sure to leave you in awe.

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St. Bartholomew Church and Watzmann Mountain seen from Konigssee, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
St. Bartholomew Church and Watzmann Mountain seen from Konigssee
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With the awe-inspiring view, this unique experience is just one of the many reasons why the Königssee is a must-visit destination for travelers. 

Halfway down the western shore of the lake lies the picturesque St. Bartholomä, a famous pilgrimage church with an inn nearby.

This church is one of the most famous in Germany because of its location.

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The traditional electric boats in Konigssee, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
The traditional electric boats in Konigssee
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If you are a photographer, this church will undoubtedly inspire you to take many photos during your visit to Königssee.

Are you going to Lake Königssee? It’s just a bus ride away from Berchtesgaden Hauptbahnhof.

Hop on bus #839, 841, or 843 and you’ll be dropped off at the lake’s parking lot.

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Inside the boat in Konigssee, Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Inside the boat in Konigssee
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While the view from the shore is already breathtaking, I highly recommend taking an electric boat tour to explore the lake.

From April to October, daily tours are available to cross the entire lake and visit Saint Bartholomeus and Lake Obersee.

You can purchase tickets at the booth in front of the boat docks, which opens 30 minutes before the first boat departs.

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Angelic view of Konigssee and St. Bartholomew Church in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany
Angelic view of Konigssee and St. Bartholomew Church in Berchtesgaden
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Don’t forget to keep your ticket with you for the return trip — you won’t be allowed back on the boat without it.

Know that you can find the timetables for Lake Königssee on the official website, in the resources section.

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4. Jenner

Whenever I hear about people visiting Konigssee without also visiting Jenner, I can’t help but feel a twinge of regret on their behalf.

Overlooking Mount Jenner means missing out on an incredibly breathtaking experience. 

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View from the top of Jenner Mountain in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
View from the top of Jenner Mountain in Berchtesgaden
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From the top of the mountain, accessible via cable car from Schönau, visitors can take in panoramic views of the Watzmann range and Königssee below.

It’s truly a sight of the Bavarian Alps to behold! 

While tickets for the Jennerbahn may seem pricey at first glance, the scenic experience is worth every penny.

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Sea of clouds over Konigssee seen from Jenner Mountain in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Sea of clouds over Konigssee seen from Jenner Mountain
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The beautiful experience starts with Jennerbahn’s spacious cable cars, providing a safe and enjoyable 20-minute ride up the mountain, with stunning views of the landscape passing by.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can exit at the middle station and hike part of the way up or down.

Otherwise, take the cable car all the way to the top, where you’ll be greeted by a terrace with a restaurant and breathtaking overlooks.

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Another view from Jenner Mountain in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Another view from Jenner Mountain
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After arriving, you can hike to different viewpoints to take it all in.

The top station has a restaurant, Jenneralm.

It offers indoor and outdoor seating, serving up delicious Bavarian cuisine, beer, and cocktails where you can dine with a view before or after exploring the mountaintop.

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Another sea of clouds view over Konigssee from Jenner Mountain in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Another sea of clouds view over Konigssee from Jenner Mountain
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The Jennerbahn is just a short walk from Lake Königssee, but before heading up the mountain, be sure to check the weather conditions and views from the top of Jenner Mountain.

You can purchase tickets online or at the ticket booth upon arrival. 

The resources section of this post contains links to the live webcam view and the online ticketing page.

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5. Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle

If you’re looking for a free, simple yet charming and scenic experience in Berchtesgaden during your day trip from Salzburg, exploring Old Town Berchtesgaden and visiting Kirchleitn Kapelle are the perfect activities.

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Colorful houses in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Colorful houses in Berchtesgaden
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The historic town center is filled with charming Rococo buildings, including town halls, a church, and a royal palace.

Old Town Berchtesgaden may be small, but you’ll surely be amazed by the Luftmalerei that adorns the facades of the houses in it.

(That’s most especially if you are an architecture enthusiast like me! LOL)

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Christmas stalls in Old Town Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Christmas stalls in Old Town Berchtesgaden
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So, what is Luftmalerei? It is a stunning form of mural art that can be found in the charming villages and towns of southern Germany and Austria.

This folk-oriented variation of trompe-l’œil from the Baroque period is especially popular in Upper Bavaria (where Berchtesgaden is) and in Tyrol.

It imitates architectural elements and, just like ‘high architecture’, it also embeds pictorial cartouches, mirrors, and fields

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Lüftlmalerei in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day trip from Salzburg
Lüftlmalerei in Berchtesgaden
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Because of them, strolling through the streets of Old Town Berchtesgaden, you’ll feel like you’re walking on the pages of a color book.

It’s a unique experience in the German parts of the Alps.

North of Old Town Berchtesgaden, however, lies an iconic landmark and picture-perfect spot in Berchtesgaden — Kirchleitn Kapelle.

It’s one of the best places to watch the sunset in Berchtesgaden.

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Kirchleitn Kapelle in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day tip from Salzburg
Kirchleitn Kapelle
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Nestled above the Weinfeld in Berchtesgaden, it is the chapel that you can see with the overlooking view of Berchtesgaden Old Town and Watzmann mountain in the backdrop.

Because Kirchleitn Kapelle creates a scene straight out of a fantasy movie, it has become an iconic symbol of Berchtesgaden and became one of the most photographed motifs in all of Bavaria.

If you want to make your Berchtesgaden day trip from Salzburg (or any other place) unique, this church is the off-the-beaten-path destination you should not really miss.

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Golden Hour view of Kirchleitn Kapelle in Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany, a day tip from Salzburg
Golden Hour view of Kirchleitn Kapelle
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To reach the stunning Kirchleitn Kapelle from Old Town Berchtesgaden, start your journey at Marktpl and make your way toward Schlossplatz.

Take a left onto Weinfeldweg and keep an eye out for the rustic Spielplatz am Weinfeldweg playground, where you’ll turn right.

Continue along the pathway through the picturesque meadows until you reach a fork at the end.

Take the stairs and after just a few more steps, you’ll see Kirchleitn Kapelle.

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Best Way to Get to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg

If you’re thinking about taking a day trip from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden, you’ve got three options: Bus #840, Train, or Taxi. But undoubtedly, the bus is the way to go.

Not only is it the cheapest option, but it also takes you directly from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden without any transfers, unlike the train.

Plus, it’s about 20 minutes faster than the train! And with the added bonus of extra stops, you can even hop on Bus 840 in Salzburg and alight at places like the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine on its way into town.

You can buy tickets for Bus #840 directly from the bus driver with cash, or from the outdoor machines at the Salzburg station bus depot.

Alternatively, you can get your tickets from the OEBB official website, which I’ve linked in the resources section of this post.

Note that bus 840 departs every hour from Bus Stall J (Engelbert-Weiß-Weg), just across the road from McDonald’s near Salzburg’s main bus depot. 50 minutes after departing, you should’ve arrived in Berchtesgaden.

If you wish to watch the sunset in Berchtesgaden, you’ll probably miss the last bus back to Salzburg.

But don’t worry! You can still use the trains. Trains from Berchtesgaden to Salzburg have last returning trips between 9:30-10:10 pm daily.

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How to Visit Berchtesgaden from Salzburg (DIY Itinerary)

While there are many amazing tourist attractions and activities in Berchtesgaden for your day trip from Salzburg, it’s practically impossible to do them all in just one day.

But don’t worry if you can’t hit them all — visiting two or three should be enough and could already give most travelers a satisfying experience.

In this part, I’ll give you ideas on how you can make the most of your day trip to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg. 

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Map of Berchtesgaden, Bavaria, Germany
Map of Berchtesgaden
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However, if you’re a big fan of mountains and nature like me, or if you’re into landscape photography, you might have to consider staying in Berchtesgaden for 2 days. 

This way, you can really soak up all the beauty and adventure the town has to offer. In case you need a place to stay, here is a link to the best hotel deals in Berchtesgaden.

The link will take you to a hotel browser with a map browser that will help you find the most convenient hotel for you.

Alright!

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How Much Time to Spend at Each Tourist Attraction in Berchtesgaden

To help you plan your Berchtesgaden day trip itinerary, it’s important to know how much time you’ll need to fully enjoy each tourist attraction. This will give you an idea of which places you can visit.

As a recap, here are the must-see attractions we aim to see on a day trip to Berchtesgaden:

  • Eagle’s Nest
  • Salt Mine Berchtesgaden
  • Königssee
  • Jenner
  • Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle

1. Eagle’s Nest 

If you’re planning a trip to Eagle’s Nest, it’s a good idea to set aside more or less two hours for your visit.

This will give you enough time to explore the area and even grab a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant if you’d like.

Keep in mind that there may be a wait for transportation to and from the site, so be sure to factor in an additional 30 minutes to an hour for queuing and travel time.

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2. Salt Mine Berchtesgaden

When it comes to Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, be sure to allow at least two hours for your tour.

This will give you enough time to complete the tour and take care of any necessary tasks, such as purchasing tickets, borrowing miner’s clothes, changing into them, and returning them after your visit.

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3. Königssee

If you’re planning to visit Königssee, it’s a good idea to set aside at least five hours for your trip.

This will give you enough time to take the four-hour round-trip boat ride, make a quick stop at Saint Bartholomä Church, and take care of any necessary tasks such as queuing and buying tickets.

If you’re interested in hiking, there are some great opportunities at the southern tip of Königssee, in an area known as Salet.

From there, you can continue on to Obersee (Upper Lake) and Rothbachfall (Germany’s tallest waterfall).

Obersee is particularly stunning, with its mirror-like clear water and calm surface.

It’s only a 10-minute hike from the ferry dock in Salet, so I highly recommend taking the time to visit.

If you do decide to see Obersee, be sure to allow an additional 30 minutes for hiking to the lake, relaxing for a few minutes, and taking photographs.

If you want to hike around Obersee and visit the idyllic Fischunkelalm Farm & Pasture on the other shore, you’ll need to allow another 30 minutes.

However, I don’t recommend hiking further to Rothbachfalls as it can be quite time-consuming and may prevent you from seeing other attractions in Berchtesgaden on your day trip. 

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4. Jenner

Visiting Jenner mountain would be slightly shorter than the tourist attractions previously mentioned.

You can expect to spend about an hour and a half exploring Jenner.

If you’d like to grab a bite to eat at the mountaintop restaurant, be sure to allow an additional 30 minutes, for a total of two hours.

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5. Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle

If you’re planning to explore Old Town Berchtesgaden and visit Kirchleitn Kapelle, you can expect to spend about an hour seeing both.

However, depending on your plans, such as watching the sunset over Berchtesgaden from Kirchleitn Kapelle, you may want to allow for a bit more time. 

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Different Ways to Do a Berchtesgaden Day Trip

Now that you know how much time to spend at each tourist attraction in Berchtesgaden, you can easily plan your day trip and decide how many attractions you can visit.

If you’re coming from a place like Munich, you may only have time to see three attractions, such as the Eagle’s Nest, Salt Mine, and Old Town.

However, if you’re coming from Salzburg, which is less than an hour away from Berchtesgaden, you may be able to visit up to four attractions.

Below, I’ll show you some different ways to spend a day in Berchtesgaden on a day trip from Salzburg.

 

1. Classic Berchtesgaden Day Trip Itinerary

Make the most of your time in Berchtesgaden.

  • Morning — Salt Mine Berchtesgaden
  • Lunchtime and early afternoon — Eagle’s Nest 
  • Afternoon — Jenner (optional but highly recommended)
  • Evening — Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle

Our goal is to catch the first tour of the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine by leaving Salzburg at 8:00 AM or earlier.

Instead of going directly to the Berchtesgaden bus station, we’ll get off at the Salt Mine’s bus stop, which is along the route of bus number 840. 

For your upcoming itineraries, you may not need to leave Salzburg as early as 8:00 am.

However, especially during peak season, it’s still a good idea to arrive early in Berchtesgaden so that you can visit its tourist attractions without having to navigate through large crowds.

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2. Pure Nature Berchtesgaden Day trip Itinerary

Best for perfect sunny weather.

  • Morning until early afternoon — Königssee
  • Late Afternoon — Jenner
  • Evening — Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle (optional)

In this itinerary, you’ll head straight to Königssee after arriving in Berchtesgaden from Salzburg. 

Keep in mind that the Königssee tour takes around 5 hours, so it’s important to plan your meals accordingly.

One option is to bring a packed meal from a local supermarket to save money.

Alternatively, you could eat a heavy meal before exploring Königssee and then have your next meal at the restaurant in Jenner.

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3. Best of Berchtesgaden Day Trip Itinerary

History and nature.

  • Morning — Eagle’s Nest
  • Early lunch until the afternoon — Königssee
  • Late afternoon until evening — Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle

Eagle’s Nest and Königssee are two of Berchtesgaden’s most unique and beautiful attractions.

I highly recommend visiting both to see the best of what Berchtesgaden has to offer.

In this itinerary, I suggest taking an early lunch at Eagle’s Nest so that you can head straight to Königssee after your visit.

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4. Cloudy Berchtesgaden Day Trip Itinerary

When fog and clouds cover the view from the mountains. 

  • Morning — Salt Mine Berchtesgaden
  • Afternoon — Königssee
  • Late afternoon until evening — Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle

Don’t worry if bad weather strikes during your day trip to Berchtesgaden.

While you may not be able to see the breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps from Eagle’s Nest or Jenner, you can still make the most of your trip by visiting the Salt Mine and soaking in the misty, magical views of Lake Königssee. 

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5. Limited time Berchtesgaden Day Trip Itinerary

See the mountains, lake, and the world underneath in a shorter time. 

  • Late Morning — Salt Mine Berchtesgaden
  • Lunch — Jenner
  • Afternoon — Old Town Berchtesgaden and Kirchleitn Kapelle

If you have limited time for your day trip to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg, I suggest this itinerary to help you see as many different beautiful parts of Berchtesgaden as possible.

Instead of visiting Eagle’s Nest that needs almost three hours to visit, go to Jenner instead. 

Jenner is a breathtaking alternative to Eagle’s Nest for views of the Bavarian Alps.

Additionally, since Jenner is located close to Königssee, it also gives you the opportunity to see the lake up close or from a beautiful perspective overlooking it. 

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Day Trips to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg

For a hassle-free visit to Berchtesgaden, consider using the guides and tours listed below.

They’ll take care of the planning, ticket purchasing, and transportation for you, so you can skip the long lines and focus on enjoying your trip.

1. Best for groups — Highlights of the Bavarian Mountains incl. Eagle’s Nest

Be on an unforgettable journey with your family or friends to the breathtaking Eagle’s Nest and Konigssee or Salt Mine Berchtesgaden, all with the convenience of free hotel pick-up and drop-off.

You’ll surely enjoy the company of an informative, friendly, and professional guide and driver.

A bonus in the tour is a quick stop at a Sound of Music scenic filming location.

2. Quick visit to Berchtesgaden and Eagle’s Nest from Salzburg — Eagle’s Nest and Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg

Grab a skip-the-line access to Eagle’s Nest in this round trip journey to Berchtesgaden from Salzburg!

What’s nicer? You’ll be traveling in a luxury bus instead of the ordinary one.

3. Quick visit to Berchtesgaden and Königssee from Salzburg — From Salzburg: Half-Day Tour of Berchtesgaden

If you’re short on time but want to see Königssee, this half-day tour is perfect for you.

You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will provide you with tips and interesting stories about the places you’ll visit.

4. Quick visit to Berchtesgaden Salt Mine from Salzburg — Bavarian Salt Mine Tour and Berchtesgaden

Get your priority entry to Salt Mine Berchtesgaden by joining this tour.

You will be accompanied by an informative multilingual guide who will share local knowledge to help you make the most of your trip.

5. Experience no hassle, go wherever you want in this Berchtesgaden tour — Private Eagle’s Nest Tour & Königsee from Salzburg

Experience the ultimate luxury with this personalized tour, designed to give you the flexibility to pick and choose the venues you would like to visit.

This fully-guided tour focuses extensively on the Eagle’s Nest, Bavarian mountains, and the Königsee.

The tour also includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, bottled water, a friendly driver/guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

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Tips: Getting Around Berchtesgaden

If you’re planning to explore Berchtesgaden using buses, you can save money by purchasing a Berchtesgaden Day Ticket, also known as BRB TagesTicket.

This ticket, issued by the Bayerische Regiobahn or Bavarian Regional Train system, gives you unlimited transport on local buses, excluding the special Eagle’s Nest buses, and even covers a bus ride to Salzburg.

The ticket costs a few Euros per adult, with discounts available for children and families.

For an additional Euro, you can also travel on trains and buses between Salzburg and Berchtesgaden.

Additionally, this ticket entitles you to a 10% discount on popular attractions such as the Eagle’s Nest bus, Königssee boat cruise, Jennerbahn gondola, and the salt mine tour.

You can purchase the Day Ticket online, on buses including bus #840 in Salzburg, from ticket machines, or at the Berchtesgaden and Salzburg Hauptbahnhofs.

Learn more about BRB TagesTicket from Bayerische Regiobahn official website linked at the resources section of this post.

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Resources: Visiting Berchtesgaden from Salzburg

Alright! I hope you find this post about Berchtesgaden helpful. To further assist you with your Berchtesgaden day trip from Salzburg, here are some links to the latest information you will need for your planning.

Here’s where you can find the best hotel deals in Salzburg if you’re looking for a place to stay.

The link will take you to a hotel browser that includes a map to help you find the most convenient hotel for you.

This link can also be used to find a hotel in Berchtesgaden if you wish to stay in the area and explore its other attractions.

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Where To Next In Salzburg?

Berchtesgaden is just one of the many places you can visit from Salzburg.

As I mentioned at the beginning, it is surrounded by amazing destinations. A few of the must-sees are listed below.

  1. Hellbrunn Palace. Come and see its amazing trick fountains. Read — Hellbrunn Palace: 5 Things To Do (a Must Visit in Salzburg)
  2. Hohenwerfen Fortress. One of the most beautiful fortresses in Europe. Check it out: 5 Reasons To Visit Hohenwerfen Fortress in Salzburg
  3. St. Gilgen. A charming village nestled at the shores of an alpine lake. See how beautiful it is — Visiting St. Gilgen: 7 Things To Do In This Beautiful Village

Also, be sure to visit the top attractions and other tourist destinations in Salzburg before or after your day trip to Berchtesgaden.

  1. Mozart’s Birthplace. Discover Salzburg’s most important musical heritage — Mozart’s Birthplace: Interesting Things To Discover Inside
  2. Hohensalzburg Fortress. The all-in-one tourist attraction in Salzburg. Discover why — Visiting Salzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg: What to Do Inside
  3. Mirabell Palace. It’s the place that a fan of the movie, Sound of Music, should not miss — Mirabell Palace In Salzburg: 5 Reasons Why You Must Visit
  4. Nonnberg Abbey. A beautiful off-the-beaten-path destination in Salzburg; a filming location of Sound of Music. Discover it — Visiting Nonnberg Abbey in Salzburg: Tips and Information
  5. Salzburg Cathedral. Salzburg’s most beautiful architectural landmark; the city’s religious center. Don’t miss a thing — Salzburg Cathedral: Complete Guide (with Facts and Visit Information)
  6. Mönchsberg. The place to see the panoramic beauty of the Alps and Old Town Salzburg. Check it out — Mönchsberg: 5 Things To Do on This Hill in Salzburg
  7. Kapuzinerberg. The mountains with several unique vantage points of Old Town Salzburg (best for watching the sunset!) — Visiting Kapuzinerberg: Best Views of Old Town Salzburg
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