Why Berchtesgaden Should Be on Your Germany Itinerary

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I think Bavaria has the most breathtaking destinations in Germany. Agree? Whether you do or not, just wait until you see Berchtesgaden—it’s a hidden gem that might steal your heart!

If you’re anything like me, Berchtesgaden won’t disappoint. Its breathtaking natural beauty will leave you in awe and make your trip unforgettable. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, it’s surrounded by landscapes so stunning they’ll fill your camera with incredible shots and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Sure, there are other gorgeous places in Europe, like the Swiss Alps, Chamonix in France, or Cortina d’Ampezzo in Italy—not to mention other Bavarian towns—but Berchtesgaden has a unique charm. It’s a must-see when exploring southern Germany or central Europe!

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Berchtesgaden’s Location — Easily Accessible

Even though Berchtesgaden is situated on the outskirts of Germany, it’s only 154 kilometers away from Munich – a quick and easy 2-hour drive. But what’s even more convenient is that it’s just 26 kilometers away from Salzburg, Austria, which takes only 45 minutes to get to by car or bus.

Here’s a guide on how to plan a day trip from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden.

If you’re not keen on driving and are starting your journey from Munich, taking the train would be your best bet. Although it takes 2 and a half hours and requires 1 transfer, it’s a stress-free and comfortable way to get to Berchtesgaden.

However, during the peak season, finding a parking spot in Berchtesgaden can be a hassle, so opting for the train instead of renting a car is recommended. If you’re traveling from Salzburg, the best and quickest option is the bus (bus no. 840). It provides a direct connection between Salzburg and Berchtesgaden and is around 20 minutes faster than the train.

Top Attractions

Among the qualities that travelers search for in a new destination, uniqueness is often at the top of the list. I think they’re Berchtesgaden’s Salt Mine and Eagle’s Nest.

Salt Mine

If you’re curious about what makes Berchtesgaden different from other towns and nature destinations, the answer lies in its salt mine.

For centuries, the people of Berchtesgaden have mined salt—it’s been a core part of their town’s identity. Back in the early 16th century, a salt mine was established, and it still operates today as Germany’s oldest active salt mine.

Over time, the mine’s operations have modernized without ever stopping. Today, it’s one of Berchtesgaden’s top tourist attractions and the second reason you should visit this charming town. Exploring the salt mine, paired with the stunning Bavarian Alps, offers an unforgettable experience.

Get this: this isn’t your typical salt mine—it’s an adventure below ground! Inside, you’ll find a whole new world of fun, learning, and entertainment. The tour takes you 650 meters into the mountain, with stops at a salt cathedral, a stone salt cave, and a salt lab. The highlight? A surreal rafting trip across a salt lake that mirrors the cave’s ceiling.

It’s a family-friendly activity too! Adults can dive into the fascinating salt-making process and marvel at the machinery, while kids will love the slides and mini-trains. Both young and old will be wowed by the laser shows and unique sights underground.

The tour itself lasts about an hour, but plan for an extra 30 minutes to an hour for lining up, changing into and out of miner’s clothes, and other preparations.

Tours run every 10 minutes from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm (April to October) and every 25 minutes from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm (November to March). The salt mine is closed on holidays, so be sure to check their website for updates before your visit. You’ll find the link in the resources section.

Eagle’s Nest

This is one of the two unique things you can find in Berchtesgaden and it’s absolutely another reason to visit Berchtesgaden.

Eagle's Nest, Berchtesgaden, Germany (2)

Eagle's Nest, Berchtesgaden, Germany (3)

What is the Eagle’s Nest?

Once a meeting spot for Nazi Party events, the Eagle’s Nest in Berchtesgaden is a site with significant history. Its name came from a French ambassador, who said the location looked like an eagle’s nest during a rare diplomatic visit with Hitler.

After the war, it was transformed into a restaurant with a beer garden. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

Sitting 1,834 meters above sea level in the Hoher Goll mountains, the Eagle’s Nest gives you a panoramic view of Jenner, Königssee, Berchtesgaden, and even Salzburg. But it’s more than just a pretty view.

The site also features a golden brass elevator that lifts you 124 meters, a historic fireplace, graffiti left by Allied soldiers, and Hitler’s small study.

To reach the Eagle’s Nest, you can hike or take a bus. While there is a road connecting it to Berchtesgaden, only public buses are allowed to use it. If you’re driving, park at Busbahnhof Kehlsteinhaus and hop on a bus from there to complete your journey.

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Beautiful Natural Attractions

Berchtesgaden is surrounded by amazing natural attractions, offering plenty of fun for visitors. Some of them are must-sees and rank among the best in Germany. (Here are my top 10 most scenic viewpoints in Berchtesgaden.)

Breathtaking Mountain Views

Berchtesgaden is a mountain lover’s paradise, surrounded by peaks like Hochkalter, Watzmann, Jenner, Untersberg, and more. The peaceful, breathtaking views are everywhere—reason enough to visit!

Jenner Aussichtsplattform, Berchtesgaden, Germany

If you’re looking to relax, recharge, and soak in some fresh mountain air, Berchtesgaden is the perfect destination. The breathtaking views begin as soon as you hit the road from Salzburg or Munich. The closer you get, the more incredible the scenery becomes.

You’ll pass alpine meadows and lush forests—exactly the kind of peace and beauty anyone tired of city life craves.

Visiting in summer? Head to Berchtesgaden National Park and fully immerse yourself in nature. With over 260 kilometers of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone, no matter your skill level. Feeling adventurous? Take on one of the Via Ferrata routes for an extra thrill!

The park also has 26 mountain huts and alpine pastures where you can enjoy hearty meals and a peaceful retreat. For more details on the park’s trails, wildlife, and history, check out the park flyer in the resources section.

Not into hiking? Don’t worry—Berchtesgaden offers plenty of ways to enjoy the stunning views without breaking a sweat. The Eagle’s Nest is one must-visit spot, but there’s more.

Jenner Aussichtsplattform is another great option. You can take a cable car from Schönau am Königssee, a nearby town south of Berchtesgaden, to reach this amazing vantage point.

Jenner, a 1,874-meter peak in the Goll Massif, is a popular destination for skiing and hiking. From the top, you’ll have jaw-dropping views of the Watzmann Massif and a bird’s-eye view of Königssee.

On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of a dreamy sea of clouds floating over Königssee and Schönau, creating an unforgettable, almost heavenly scene.

Blissful Lakes

One great reason to visit Berchtesgaden is its amazing mix of natural attractions. As an alpine destination, it offers both majestic mountains and peaceful lakes for you to enjoy.

Berchtesgaden is home to several beautiful lakes, some tucked away in the mountains and others easy to reach from town.

The three main lakes are Königssee, Obersee, and Hintersee. Each has its own unique charm, but Königssee is the most famous and often the busiest. Its popularity comes from its accessibility and fascinating history.

Did you know the water in Königssee is almost as pure as drinking water? For over a century, only battery-powered boats have been allowed on the lake to protect it from oil spills. The boat ride offers breathtaking views of the lake’s crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush pine forests and towering mountains.

From the boat, you’ll see the impressive Watzmann mountain face, the “longest” in the Eastern Alps. The ride starts in Schönau, a village at the northern edge of the lake, and includes three stops.

Hop off at the Hirschau Peninsula to visit Saint Bartholomew Church, at Kessel for a small alpine pasture, or at Salet to explore another stunning lake, Obersee.

Obersee, located near the southern shores of Königssee, is just a short hike from Salet. While it’s much smaller than Königssee, its beauty is unmatched. Encircled by mountains, Obersee’s calm, clear water reflects the landscape like a mirror, creating an almost otherworldly view. It’s a place that begs for endless photos.

The third lake, Hintersee, is another must-see spot, about 13 kilometers from Berchtesgaden.

Since the 1850s, Hintersee has inspired countless artists and photographers. Its serene waters reflect the Watzmann massif, creating a picture-perfect, romantic scene that looks straight out of a postcard.

Germany’s Tallest Waterfall

Berchtesgaden has more natural wonders you must discover, and they’re a reason to be in Berchtesgaden. One of them is the Rothbach waterfall, situated near Obersee. It’s the gorgeous white line you’ll find on the corner of the valley where Obersee is.

Röthbach Waterfall, Berchtesgaden, Germany

Rothbach Waterfall, Germany’s tallest, tumbles down a stunning 470-meter cliff.

Unlike some of the more popular spots, Rothbach is pretty remote, which is why many people, myself included, mistakenly think Triberg Waterfall in the Black Forest holds the title.

There are two ways to reach Rothbach: you can hike from Jenner or take a boat ride on Königssee and then hike the rest of the way.

Beautiful Gorge

In addition to its graceful waterfalls, fairytale lakes, and stunning mountains, Berchtesgaden is also home to a gorge that’s still forming but already a natural masterpiece. It’s called Wimbachklamm, a 200-meter-long gorge, and it’s the eighth reason to visit Berchtesgaden.

Wimbachklamm, Berchtesgaden, Germany (2)

Wimbachklamm is like stepping into a natural masterpiece. Wooden pathways guide you through stunning rock formations with water cascading out, and some of the rocks even feature fossils from the Late Triassic period!

It’s another amazing way to immerse yourself in nature. The milky blue water flowing through the gorge is mesmerizing, and the thunderous sound of the rushing water has a surprisingly calming effect.

If you’re spending a few days in Berchtesgaden, I recommend visiting Wimbachklamm along with Hintersee and the Parish Church of Saint Sebastian. All three spots are conveniently connected by bus route 846.

Spectacular Ice Cave

If you love exploring natural wonders during your travels, the Ice Chapel is another interesting destination in Berchtesgaden.

The Ice Chapel isn’t a church—it’s a rare and stunning natural wonder that highlights the beauty of nature. So, what’s the Ice Chapel all about? It’s the lowest-lying snowfield in the Alps, sitting at just 800 to 1,000 meters above sea level, far below the typical freezing altitude of 2,000 meters.

What’s incredible is that the Ice Chapel stays frozen year-round, even in summer. It’s not yet considered a glacier, though—it’s firn, the intermediate stage before snow becomes a glacier.

From a distance, it might look like a simple block of ice forming a cave, but the real magic happens when you step closer and go inside. It’s like entering another world. The carved ice creates irregular blue lattices that are almost too beautiful to believe.

Keep in mind that the Ice Chapel is unstable and can collapse due to the warming climate, so be cautious and avoid going too deep inside.

To get there, start at Königssee on the Hirschau Peninsula. From there, you’ll find a 3.3-kilometer hiking trail to the Ice Chapel, which takes about 1.5 hours to complete.

Other Amazing Experiences

Berchtesgaden isn’t just about natural attractions and unique experiences. If you love photography, scenic drives, or exploring culture, this place has something for you.

Picturesque Chapels

Berchtesgaden is home to some stunning churches in beautiful, photogenic locations. Here are three you definitely shouldn’t miss: the Church of Saint Bartholomew, Wallfahrtskirche Maria Gern, and the Parish Church of St. Sebastian.

Wallfahrtskirche Maria Gern, Berchtesgaden, Germany

San Sebastian Church, Berchtesgaden, Germany

Saint Bartholomew Church, Königssee, Berchtesgaden, Germany

When you travel, it’s always a treat to stumble upon unexpected gems, like the beautiful churches in Berchtesgaden. Whether you’re a wanderer, hiker, or explorer, these spots can make your trip even more special.

The most famous of the three churches is the Church of Saint Bartholomew, located on the Hirschau Peninsula at Königssee. You’ve probably seen this charming little church on social media—it’s the one with white walls and red onion domes, perfectly reflected in the clear waters of the lake. With the majestic Watzmann mountain as its backdrop, it looks like something straight out of a fairytale.

Dating back to the 12th century, this Roman Catholic pilgrimage church is also a historic treasure. If you visit on the Saturday after August 24th, you might witness pilgrims arriving after crossing the Berchtesgaden Alps from Maria Alm in Austria.

The Parish Church of St. Sebastian in Ramsau is another must-see, and it’s much easier to visit than Saint Bartholomew. Located on the way to Hintersee, you can reach it by taking bus no. 846 from Berchtesgaden’s central station—just a 20-minute ride.

Although it’s not beside a lake, St. Sebastian sits near a charming river, with the Alps creating a picturesque backdrop. A quick visit here offers a delightful glimpse of the German countryside.

The third gem is Wallfahrtskirche Maria Gern, found in the small village of Maria Gern north of Berchtesgaden. Nestled at the foot of Kneifelspitze, the church is perched on a hill, surrounded by lush forests, with the dramatic Watzmann massif in the background. This enchanting setting makes it feel like a storybook scene.

For the perfect photo, head just north of the church to capture its beauty framed by the iconic saddle shape of the Watzmann peaks. The contrast between its white walls and the vibrant landscape makes it a favorite for photographers.

Getting to Maria Gern is easy—take bus no. 837 from Berchtesgaden Rathaus (town hall). The ride takes less than 10 minutes, and the bus departs every hour.

Watzmann Therme Berchtesgaden

Visiting Berchtesgaden isn’t just about having fun on adventures and being amazed—it’s also great for your overall well-being, which is good for both your physical and mental health.

I’ll explain how later, but trust me, this is yet another great reason to visit Berchtesgaden. By now, you probably know that a trip here involves plenty of adventure—hiking, exploring, and soaking in nature’s beauty. While it’s fun and unforgettable, let’s be real: it’s also exhausting.

Picture this: you’ve spent the entire day trekking through mountains and lakes, exploring natural wonders. Your feet are sore, and you’re completely worn out. Honestly, I feel this way every time I travel!

If you’re planning to dive into all the exciting, energy-draining activities Berchtesgaden offers, there’s an amazing way to unwind afterward—Watzmann Therme, the town’s thermal spa. It’s perfect for all ages and especially great for families.

But Watzmann Therme isn’t just a spa; it’s a full-on wellness center with something for everyone. Relax in their wellness facilities while enjoying beautiful views. They offer everything from sports pools and fun 80-meter waterslides with light effects to themed saunas, brine pools, massages, and more!

Scenic Drives

At first, I suggested using public transport in Berchtesgaden because parking can be limited. However, during the off-season, renting or bringing a car is a better option for more flexibility. Plus, the scenic roads make driving there an unforgettable experience—and a reason to visit on its own.

Nestled in the Alps, one of the world’s most stunning regions, Berchtesgaden offers scenic roads you won’t want to miss.

If you’re planning a road trip, there are two routes you should definitely check out: the Rossfeld Panoramic Road and the German Alpine Road.

The Rossfeld Panoramic Road, located northeast of Berchtesgaden near the German-Austrian border, is Germany’s highest panoramic road. It treats you to incredible views of the Berchtesgaden Alps, Salzburg, and the Salzach Valley.

The German Alpine Road, the oldest tourist route in the German Alps, lies west of Berchtesgaden. This picturesque road connects Berchtesgaden to Lake Constance (Bodensee), Germany’s largest lake, in southwestern Bavaria. Along the way, it passes through charming towns like Oberammergau and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

If you’re looking to explore more of the Bavarian Alps by car, this route is a must.

Beautiful Bavarian Culture

The final reason to visit Berchtesgaden is its rich Bavarian culture. From charming, well-preserved towns and cute houses to lively beer festivals, there’s so much to fascinate you!

You wouldn’t believe how charming Bavarian towns are. Visiting each one feels like stepping into a colorful storybook, full of stunning artwork.

In towns like Berchtesgaden, many houses feature Luftmalerei, beautiful and colorful murals on their facades. These murals often tell stories, from biblical scenes to depictions of the house’s patron saints or even the owner’s profession.

Thanks to these murals, Bavarian towns have become like open-air museums. As you stroll through the streets, you’re constantly discovering new art and culture. Most of these murals use a trompe-l’œil style, which makes the town feel even more enchanting.

And if you’re looking for even more to experience, Berchtesgaden hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, making every visit unforgettable. Check out the event calendar (in the resources section) to find out more.

Resources

If you’ve decided to visit Berchtesgaden and are starting to plan your trip, my tips on how long to stay, getting around, and must-see viewpoints will help! For more details about the attractions mentioned above, check out the links below to learn more about Berchtesgaden.

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