Berchtesgaden

🇩🇪 Germany
Discover Alpine beauty in Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden - Vacation Briefing

Nestled in the stunning Bavarian Alps, Berchtesgaden is a picturesque town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Surrounded by majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests, it is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the famous Berchtesgaden National Park, take a boat trip on Lake Königssee, or hike to the Eagle's Nest for breathtaking views. With its rich history, including the royal past and association with the Third Reich, Berchtesgaden also offers intriguing cultural experiences such as the Dokumentation Obersalzberg museum. Don't forget to indulge in delicious Bavarian cuisine and explore the charming streets lined with traditional shops and cafes.

Popular Sights in Berchtesgaden

Things to do during your Berchtesgaden vacation

Berchtesgaden is a picturesque town nestled in the Bavarian Alps, offering breathtaking natural landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, Berchtesgaden has something to offer for everyone. Explore the charming old town, hike up to the stunning Eagle's Nest, or simply relax by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Königssee. With its perfect blend of nature, history, and charm, Berchtesgaden is a must-visit destination in Germany.

  • Eagle's Nest: Visit Hitler's historic mountaintop retreat, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Lake Königssee: Embark on a boat trip on one of Germany's most beautiful alpine lakes, surrounded by towering mountains and emerald-green waters.
  • Berchtesgaden National Park: Explore the pristine wilderness of the national park, home to rare alpine flora and fauna, and enjoy various outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife spotting.
  • Berchtesgaden Salt Mine: Discover the fascinating underground world of the salt mine through an interactive guided tour, complete with slides and boat rides.
  • Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of the old town, lined with traditional Bavarian buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafes.
  • Documentation Obersalzberg: Learn about the history of the former Nazi complex and its role during World War II through a museum and exhibitions.
  • Ramsau Church: Marvel at the iconic church famously depicted on countless postcards, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Bavarian Alps.
  • Watzmann Mountain: Challenge yourself with a hike to the highest peak in the Berchtesgaden Alps and soak in the panoramic views.
  • Jennerbahn Cable Car: Take a cable car ride up Jenner Mountain and enjoy sweeping views of the alpine landscape and Lake Königssee.
  • St. Bartholomew's Church: Visit the picturesque church located on the shores of Lake Königssee and admire its distinctive red domes.
  • Shopping at the Alpine Village of Berchtesgaden: Indulge in some retail therapy and explore the local boutiques and specialty shops offering traditional Bavarian crafts and delicacies.

Why you should visit Berchtesgaden

Overall
7

Berchtesgaden, Germany is a highly desirable destination with a lot to offer.

Safety
7

Berchtesgaden, Germany is generally safe with a low crime rate. However, tourists should still be cautious and take necessary precautions.

Culture
8

Berchtesgaden, Germany has a rich cultural heritage with numerous historical sites and museums to explore. The local cuisine is also noteworthy.

Nightlife
4

The nightlife in Berchtesgaden, Germany is not very lively. It is more of a peaceful and quiet destination.

Adventure
7

While Berchtesgaden, Germany may not be a hotspot for extreme adventures, it still offers outdoor activities like hiking and skiing for adventure enthusiasts.

Relaxation
9

Berchtesgaden, Germany offers a serene and relaxing atmosphere with beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and lakes to enjoy.

Best time to visit Berchtesgaden

Berchtesgaden offers diverse and breathtaking landscapes all year round. However, for pleasant weather and fewer crowds, the best times to visit are from May to September.

Jan
Beautiful views but chilly
-7°C - -1°C
Feb
Winter wonderland awaits
-6°C - 1°C
Mar
Emerald green valleys bloom
-2°C - 7°C
Apr
Flourishing nature & mild weather
2°C - 12°C
May
Ideal weather & blooming meadows
6°C - 17°C
Jun
Sunny days & alpine adventures
11°C - 20°C
Jul
Warm and pleasant weather
13°C - 22°C
Aug
High summer season but vibrant
13°C - 21°C
Sep
Serenity returns & autumn colors
9°C - 17°C
Oct
Golden hues & fewer tourists
4°C - 11°C
Nov
Peaceful ambiance & winter preview
-1°C - 5°C
Dec
Winter charm & festive spirit
-5°C - 1°C

A guide To your first day of Berchtesgaden vacation

morning

  • Start your day with a hike to Mount Jenner and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Visit the historic Berchtesgaden Salt Mine and learn about the area's rich mining heritage.

afternoon

  • Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Königssee and marvel at its crystal-clear turquoise waters.
  • Explore the stunning Berchtesgaden National Park and discover its diverse flora and fauna.

evening

  • Indulge in traditional Bavarian cuisine at a local restaurant and savor dishes like pretzels, sausages, and sauerkraut.
  • Stroll through the charming streets of Berchtesgaden and admire the beautiful architecture and quaint shops.

night

  • Experience the magical atmosphere of the Kehlsteinhaus, also known as the Eagle's Nest, and enjoy panoramic views of the region at sunset.
  • Relax and unwind at a cozy alpine lodge, enjoying a warm drink by the fireplace and taking in the peaceful ambiance of the mountains.

How to get to Berchtesgaden

By Plane

The most convenient international airports for reaching Berchtesgaden are Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC) and Salzburg Airport (SZG). Munich Airport offers excellent global connections and is well-connected to Berchtesgaden via train or car. Salzburg Airport is just a short drive away and offers convenient transfers for travelers.

By other means

Berchtesgaden is easily accessible by public transport, particularly by train and bus. The Berchtesgaden Hauptbahnhof is a key rail hub with frequent services from major cities. Buses also serve the area well, providing convenient connections to nearby towns and attractions.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!

Flights

Accommodation

Best for travelers who are ...

Outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, hikers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful getaway

How long to stay in Berchtesgaden?

Ideal to spend 3-4 days exploring Berchtesgaden and its surroundings

Nearby

If you're already in Berchtesgaden, Germany you might want to consider visiting these nearby destinations: