Oberammergau Passion Play Theater
A historic village renowned for its decennial Passion Play and stunning Lüftlmalerei (painted houses).

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness a once-in-a-decade event
Oberammergau Passion Play Theater
Best Time
Witness a once-in-a-decade event

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic village renowned for its decennial Passion Play and stunning Lüftlmalerei (painted houses).
"An unforgettable community effort, the Passion Play is a deeply moving experience in a beautiful setting."
Book Passion Play Tickets Early
Tickets for the Oberammergau Passion Play sell out years in advance. Plan your trip for the next performance in 2030!
Embrace the German Language
The play is in German, but a translation book is available. Many find it captivating even without understanding every word.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Passion Play Performance
Passion Play Theater
An epic, community-driven performance held every ten years, captivating audiences with its scale and emotion.

Oberammergau's Painted Houses
Throughout the village
Wander through streets adorned with vibrant, traditional Bavarian frescoes depicting fairy tales and religious scenes.

The Passion Play Theater Amphitheater
Passion Play Theater
A stunning open-air venue designed to amplify the dramatic performance, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Ahead for the Passion Play
Beyond the Play: Explore Oberammergau
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Passion Play Tickets Early
Tickets for the Oberammergau Passion Play sell out years in advance. Plan your trip for the next performance in 2030!
Embrace the German Language
The play is in German, but a translation book is available. Many find it captivating even without understanding every word.
A few weeks ago, I went on a trip to see the Passion Play in Oberammergau, which is one of the oldest in the world (first play in 1634)
TIL about Oberammergau, a German village that vowed to put on a passion play every ten years if they were spared from bubonic plague. They were, and have put on this play since the 1600s, with the next being in 2020.
Allow a Full Day for the Play
The performance is long with a significant intermission for dinner and exploring the town. Arrive early!
Explore the Painted Village
Don't miss Oberammergau's iconic Lüftlmalerei (painted houses) – they're a sight to behold year-round.
Oberammergau Christmas Passion Play
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Passion Play Tickets Early
Tickets for the Oberammergau Passion Play sell out years in advance. Plan your trip for the next performance in 2030!
Embrace the German Language
The play is in German, but a translation book is available. Many find it captivating even without understanding every word.
Allow a Full Day for the Play
The performance is long with a significant intermission for dinner and exploring the town. Arrive early!
Explore the Painted Village
Don't miss Oberammergau's iconic Lüftlmalerei (painted houses) – they're a sight to behold year-round.
Consider Local Transport
To reach Oberammergau from Munich, take a train and then a bus.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Oberammergau Passion Play as an unforgettable, deeply moving experience, highlighting the dedication of the community performers and the unique amphitheater setting. The village's charming painted houses are also a major draw, offering beauty even outside of the decennial play. However, the play's length and German language can be challenging for some, and booking far in advance is essential.
"Did not attend the Passion Play as we passed by on the way to Innsbruck. It happened to be May 1st and we were fortunate to see the towns celebrating. Lovely people and heritage. May God bless them."
Laura Armstrong
"The Passion Play is held every ten years. No matter the year you visit, the beautiful painted houses make the visit worth while."
Gene Miller
"Beautiful amphitheater where me, some family members and other people watched the Passion play of 2022. The interior of the theater was beautiful with the design help amplifying the performance onstage. It was truly an unforgettable experience."
Anthony Divinagracia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Oberammergau from Munich, you can take a train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Oberammergau. From Oberammergau station, you'll need to take a bus (like the #9622) to reach attractions like Linderhof Palace, and likely to the Passion Play Theater itself.
Yes, public transport is a viable option. Trains connect Munich to Oberammergau, and local buses serve the surrounding areas. Planning your connections in advance is recommended.
Driving is also an option, offering flexibility. However, parking in the town, especially during peak times or the Passion Play, can be challenging.
Oberammergau is a walkable village. For attractions slightly outside the town center, local buses are available.
Many tour operators offer day trips or multi-day packages to Oberammergau, often including transport and tickets for the Passion Play. This can simplify logistics.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Oberammergau Passion Play is a unique event held every ten years. The most recent performance was in 2022 (postponed from 2020), and the next is scheduled for 2030.
Due to extreme demand, it is highly recommended to book tickets and accommodation for the Passion Play years in advance. For the 2030 performance, start planning as soon as possible.
Ticket prices vary depending on seating and package options. It's best to check the official Passion Play website for the most up-to-date pricing information closer to the performance dates.
While the main event is the Passion Play, the theater and its surroundings can often be visited outside of the performance year. Check for guided tours or specific opening times.
A ticket typically grants access to the entire performance, which is divided into two parts with a substantial intermission. Translation books are usually available for purchase.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Passion Play is a lengthy production, often around 5 hours in total, including a significant intermission of about 3 hours.
No, the Passion Play is performed in German. However, translation books are available to help understand the dialogue and songs.
Comfortable, layered clothing is recommended as the theater is open-air. Consider the weather, as it can be cool in the evenings even in summer.
Yes, the theater complex provides restrooms and food/drink options, especially during the long intermission. Many visitors use this time to dine in town.
Photography and videography are generally prohibited during the performance to avoid disrupting the actors and audience. Check specific rules upon arrival.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The 3-hour intermission is perfect for enjoying dinner. You can dine at restaurants in Oberammergau or grab a bite at the theater's own facilities.
Expect traditional Bavarian cuisine, including hearty dishes like schnitzel, sausages, dumplings, and local pastries.
Many restaurants in Germany are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff.
During the Passion Play, booking dinner reservations in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular restaurants in town.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into the theater is not permitted. It's best to consume them before entering or during the designated intermission.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunities are the beautifully painted houses (Lüftlmalerei) throughout the village. The Passion Play Theater itself also offers impressive exterior shots.
No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited during the Passion Play performance to ensure an uninterrupted experience for all attendees.
The golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light for photographing the painted houses, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Exterior shots of the theater are generally allowed. However, always be mindful of any signage or staff instructions regarding photography in specific areas.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing the village and theater. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the frescoes, and a telephoto lens might be helpful for distant mountain views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families interested in the Passion Play, look for packages that might include shorter excursions or activities suitable for children. The long intermission provides an opportunity for a family meal and a stroll through the town. Ensure you have translation books if you plan to follow the play closely with older children.
🏛️ History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the play, delve into the art of Lüftlmalerei, understanding its origins and significance. The village itself is a living museum, with architecture and traditions that have been preserved for generations. Consider visiting local museums or historical sites to gain a deeper appreciation for Oberammergau's rich past.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
If attending the Passion Play, solo travelers can often find opportunities to connect with others through shared interests in the performance. The long intermission also provides ample time for personal exploration or reflection. Consider booking accommodation that facilitates social interaction, such as guesthouses or hostels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Passion Play
The performance is a monumental undertaking, requiring years of preparation and dedication from the entire village. The scale of the production, with its elaborate staging and large cast, is what makes it so unique and captivating. Even those who don't understand German can appreciate the powerful storytelling and the emotional depth of the performance, often aided by detailed translation books.
While the play is the main draw, its legacy has also shaped Oberammergau into a town renowned for its artistic heritage, particularly its distinctive Lüftlmalerei (painted houses). This tradition of artistry is deeply intertwined with the spirit of the Passion Play, showcasing the town's commitment to culture and storytelling.
Exploring Oberammergau's Painted Houses
The artistry is remarkable, with skilled local painters creating vibrant and detailed murals that have been a hallmark of Oberammergau for centuries. The tradition is not just decorative; it reflects the deep religious faith and cultural heritage of the community. Many of these paintings are centuries old, meticulously preserved and restored to maintain their beauty.
When visiting, take your time to explore different streets and discover the variety of designs. Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the best conditions for photography, highlighting the colors and details of the frescoes. It's a visual feast that offers a charming and unforgettable glimpse into Bavarian folk art and tradition.
Getting to Oberammergau: A Traveler's Guide
Public transport is well-integrated, making it a convenient option for many travelers. It's advisable to check train and bus schedules in advance, particularly if you're traveling during off-peak hours or on weekends. The journey itself offers scenic views of the Bavarian countryside, adding to the travel experience.
While driving is an alternative, it's worth noting that parking in Oberammergau can be limited, especially during the Passion Play performances. For those who prefer a guided experience, numerous tour operators offer day trips and packages that include transportation, simplifying logistics and ensuring you don't miss any key aspects of the visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit