Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Bavarian Alps jewel with Germany's highest peak, dramatic gorges, and charming painted houses. A hiker's paradise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, ideal for hiking
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Best Time
Clear skies, ideal for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bavarian Alps jewel with Germany's highest peak, dramatic gorges, and charming painted houses. A hiker's paradise.
"Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a picturesque resort town in Bavaria, known for its traditional Bavarian houses."
👟 Sturdy Shoes for the Gorge
Wear waterproof, grippy shoes for Partnach Gorge; it can be wet and slippery!
⏰ Beat the Crowds to Zugspitze
Go early morning for the best views and fewer people at Zugspitze.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Zugspitze Summit
Germany's Highest Peak
Ascend to Germany's highest point for breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps. A true Bavarian icon.
Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm)
Near Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Hike through a dramatic, narrow gorge with roaring waterfalls and towering rock formations. An unforgettable natural wonder.
Eibsee Lake
Foot of Zugspitze
A stunning emerald-green alpine lake offering crystal-clear waters and iconic views of the Zugspitze massif. Perfect for a serene walk.
Traditional Bavarian Architecture
Garmisch-Partenkirchen Town
Wander through charming streets adorned with colorful frescoes (Lüftlmalerei) and traditional Bavarian houses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Zugspitze
Partnach Gorge: Prepare for Nature's Majesty
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes for the Gorge
Wear waterproof, grippy shoes for Partnach Gorge; it can be wet and slippery!
⏰ Beat the Crowds to Zugspitze
Go early morning for the best views and fewer people at Zugspitze.
🚊 Easy Train Access
Direct trains from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen are convenient.
📸 Capture the Frescoes
Explore Garmisch town for beautiful Lüftlmalerei (painted houses).
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes for the Gorge
Wear waterproof, grippy shoes for Partnach Gorge; it can be wet and slippery!
⏰ Beat the Crowds to Zugspitze
Go early morning for the best views and fewer people at Zugspitze.
🚊 Easy Train Access
Direct trains from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen are convenient.
📸 Capture the Frescoes
Explore Garmisch town for beautiful Lüftlmalerei (painted houses).
💰 Military Perks
Active duty military and families can enjoy the Edelweiss Resort.
💧 Eibsee's Emerald Waters
The lake's color is mesmerizing, especially in autumn.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Garmisch-Partenkirchen for its breathtaking natural beauty, particularly Zugspitze and Partnach Gorge. The charming Bavarian architecture and accessibility via train from Munich are also highlights. Some find the popular attractions can get crowded, especially during peak times.
"The station has modern architecture, and staffs are friendly and helpful, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained. Garmisch-Partenkirchen train station connects tourists to the picturesque Bavarian Alps. There are frequent trains to Munich, Innsbruck, and other regional destinations. This station is an excellent starting point for exploring the region's natural beauty and world-class ski resorts. Nearby parking options make it easily accessible. Nice place to start your trekking. Journey towards top of Hills. Most of the self-service ticket kiosks are functional, typically at least one train employee always around. There is also a luggage locker on the first platform down at one end. It is a good tourist Spot to visit with Family and Friends, and there are Skiing, trekking and so much fun activities. You can reach to the top of the mountain through Cable car. The view of the lake is so good. Half way can be reached by the help of mountain train."
Animesh Patra
"Yesterday I was in Garmisch, I went via train. The journey to Garmisch was amazing. I really love the train station of Garmisch, you can get a fantastic view of the beautiful mountains. A direct train from Munich takes more than an hour to this station. You can also find a direct connection to Mittenwald, the last station of Germany 🇩🇪. Some shopping stores are also in the station. Recommended 💯."
adeel muneer
"A good tourist Spot to visit with Family and Friends.Skiing,trekking and so much fun activities. You can reach to the top of the mountain through Cable car.The view of the lake is so good.Half way can be reached by the help of mountain train."
Aarthi Jaideep
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which takes about 1.5 hours. 
Yes, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is well-connected by train to major cities like Munich and Innsbruck. Local buses also serve the surrounding areas.
From Garmisch-Partenkirchen train station, take a local bus to the Skistadion, followed by a 20-minute walk to the gorge entrance. +1
Yes, you can reach Zugspitze via cogwheel train or cable car from Garmisch-Partenkirchen or the nearby Eibsee.
Yes, there are direct train connections from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Partnach Gorge. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and opening hours.
Booking Zugspitze tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues.
Opening hours for Partnach Gorge can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website before your visit.
Discounts may be available for children, students, and groups. Check the official Zugspitze website for details.
Yes, the train station has functional self-service ticket kiosks, and train employees are usually available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers hiking, skiing, visiting Zugspitze, exploring Partnach Gorge, and enjoying traditional Bavarian culture.
Absolutely! Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a prime destination for hiking, with trails for all levels, including routes around Eibsee and up to Zugspitze.
The summit of Zugspitze offers unparalleled panoramic views. Eibsee lake also provides stunning vistas with the mountain backdrop.
Yes, Partnach Gorge is a great family activity, though sturdy shoes are essential due to potentially wet and slippery paths.
Lüftlmalerei is a traditional Bavarian art form of painting elaborate frescoes on the exterior walls of houses, often depicting scenes from daily life or fairy tales.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the summit of Zugspitze, the dramatic Partnach Gorge, and the serene Eibsee lake. Don't forget the charming painted houses in town!
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the lake's emerald hues and mountain reflections. Autumn is particularly beautiful.
Yes, photography is allowed in Partnach Gorge, but be mindful of the wet conditions and other visitors. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast panoramas. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain details.
Drone regulations can be strict in national parks and protected areas. Always check local rules before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a leisurely stroll around Eibsee lake, where children can enjoy the scenery and perhaps even dip their toes in the water during warmer months. Many hiking trails are also suitable for families, and the town itself, with its painted houses, provides visual interest.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
to challenging ascents up Zugspitze,Don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding valleys and smaller peaks like Kreuzeck, accessible by cable car, offering further hiking opportunities and stunning alpine vistas.
Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting out, and carry appropriate gear. [^Garmisch hiking]🇺🇸 Military Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Majestic Zugspitze
On a clear day, the vistas are simply breathtaking, encompassing the Bavarian plains, the Austrian Alps, and even the Italian Dolomites. There are viewing platforms, a restaurant, and a small chapel at the top. For those seeking adventure, there are also hiking opportunities on the glacier, though these require proper gear and experience. Remember that weather can change rapidly at this altitude, so dress in layers and check the forecast before you go.
Many visitors combine a trip to Zugspitze with a visit to the stunning Eibsee lake located at its base. The journey itself, whether by train or cable car, offers spectacular scenery. Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The Dramatic Beauty of Partnach Gorge
+1To access the gorge, you typically park or arrive by bus at the Skistadion (Olympic ski jump stadium) and then walk for about 20 minutes to the entrance. The walk through the gorge itself takes around an hour, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the scenery. It's crucial to wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as the path can be very wet and slippery, especially after rain or during the spring thaw.
Partnach Gorge is a fantastic destination for families and nature lovers alike. The sheer scale of the gorge and the sound of the rushing water create a truly immersive and awe-inspiring experience. It's advisable to check the opening hours and conditions before your visit, as the gorge may close temporarily due to weather or maintenance.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen: A Bavarian Gem
+1Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Garmisch-Partenkirchen serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. It's the gateway to Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, and offers access to numerous hiking trails, ski resorts, and natural attractions like the Partnach Gorge and Eibsee lake. The town also has a lively atmosphere, especially during events like the Garmisch Fest Week in summer.
+1For those seeking a unique experience, the Edelweiss Resort in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a special destination catering to the US military community, offering a taste of home and access to local attractions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit