Zugspitze
Germany's highest peak, offering unparalleled alpine vistas via scenic cable car and cogwheel train.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Zugspitze
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Germany's highest peak, offering unparalleled alpine vistas via scenic cable car and cogwheel train.
"The most beautiful cable car ride of my life, and the view… indescribable."
Book Round Trip Wisely
Consider a one-way cable car up and cogwheel train down for varied views.
Bundle Up!
Summit temperatures are much colder than the base. Layers are key.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views
Zugspitze Summit
Marvel at panoramic views of over 400 Alpine peaks across Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland.
Zugspitze Cable Car
Eibsee to Summit
Experience a thrilling ride on the world's highest cable car, offering dramatic aerial perspectives.
Cogwheel Train Journey
Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Zugspitze
Enjoy a scenic and historic journey through tunnels and alpine landscapes on the cogwheel train.
Eibsee Lake
Base of Zugspitze
Admire the crystal-clear turquoise waters of this stunning alpine lake, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress for Alpine Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Round Trip Wisely
Consider a one-way cable car up and cogwheel train down for varied views.
Bundle Up!
Summit temperatures are much colder than the base. Layers are key.
Budget for Extras
Summit prices for food and drinks are high. Pack snacks if you're on a budget.
Check Weather Forecast
Conditions can change rapidly. Always check before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Round Trip Wisely
Consider a one-way cable car up and cogwheel train down for varied views.
Bundle Up!
Summit temperatures are much colder than the base. Layers are key.
Budget for Extras
Summit prices for food and drinks are high. Pack snacks if you're on a budget.
Check Weather Forecast
Conditions can change rapidly. Always check before you go.
Dog-Friendly Ascent
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the cable car and train.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, indescribable views from Zugspitze, calling it a must-see experience. The cable car ride is often highlighted as a beautiful and thrilling part of the journey. However, many note the high cost of tickets and summit amenities, advising visitors to pack their own food and be prepared for cold weather even on sunny days.
"Very nice experience and very interesting views but. I’m unhappy to take a train for going back, because with a train you will be in tunnel around 30 minutes nothing to see, I think this train line is made for cargo to bring the necessary equipment for restaurants, so don’t take train go by cable car and see nice views"
Rajvir Singh
"The most beautiful cable car ride of my life, and the view… indescribable. This is something everyone should see.😍😍 We went up by cable car and came back down with the cogwheel train, which after a while offered a beautiful view of the lake, the mountains, and the surroundings. Also a must-see.😊"
Marta Abodi
"Very tough hike. Started 1am at the ski jump and ended 1pm. Line to the summit is a bit long. If youre doing it in 1 day, bring sun protection because it gets hot. And food because it is quite a long trip"
Mackeyboy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Zugspitze from Munich by train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then transfer to the cogwheel train or bus to the Zugspitze base stations. Alternatively, organized tours from Munich often include transportation.
Yes, there are parking lots available at the Eibsee cable car station and the cogwheel train station in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Be aware that parking fees can be substantial.
You can drive to the base stations like Eibsee or Garmisch-Partenkirchen, but you cannot drive directly to the summit. From there, you'll need to use the cable car or cogwheel train.
The most popular ways are the Zugspitze Cable Car (Seilbahn) from Eibsee or the cogwheel train (Zahnradbahn) from Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which connects to the Gletscherbahn cable car.
The journey from Munich to the Zugspitze summit can take around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your chosen mode of transport and connections.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A round-trip ticket for the cable car and cogwheel train typically costs around €75 per adult. Prices can vary, and booking online in advance is recommended. +1
Yes, it is highly recommended to purchase your Zugspitze tickets online in advance through the official website or authorized resellers like Klook or GetYourGuide to avoid long queues.
The standard ticket usually includes the round-trip journey on the Zugspitze Cable Car and the cogwheel train, as well as access to the Gletscherbahn cable car to the glacier.
Yes, you can opt for one-way tickets or combinations of cable car and cogwheel train to suit your preferences and budget.
Operating hours for the cable cars and cogwheel train vary by season. It's best to check the official Zugspitze website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🏔️ Onsite Experience
The weather at the summit can be unpredictable and significantly colder than at the base. Expect temperatures to be much lower, even in summer, and be prepared for wind and potential snow.
At the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Panorama Lounge 2962, explore the glacier, and dine at the mountaintop restaurant.
Yes, Zugspitze offers various hiking routes, from challenging multi-day treks like the Höllental route to easier paths. However, some routes are very demanding and require experience. 
Zugspitze is a popular ski resort in winter, offering skiing on its glacier. The ski season typically runs from late November to early May.
Yes, there are restaurants and cafes at the summit, including the Panorama Lounge 2962, offering food and drinks with incredible views. Be prepared for higher prices.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers countless photo opportunities with panoramic vistas. The area around Eibsee lake also provides stunning reflections of the mountain.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer hues. Weekdays also mean fewer people in your shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the sky and water.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and sensitive alpine areas. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The rapidly changing weather can be a challenge, so be prepared for various conditions. Also, managing crowds during peak times can affect your ability to get unobstructed shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks as summit prices are high.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is highly recommended to avoid expensive purchases at the summit. Exploring the Eibsee lake at the base of Zugspitze is a free and beautiful activity.
If you're considering hiking, remember that while the hike itself is free, you'll still need to factor in transportation to the trailhead and potentially gear rental if attempting via ferrata routes. 💑 Couples
Enjoy a meal or a drink at the Panorama Lounge 2962 at the summit, savoring the incredible scenery as a backdrop to your conversation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Zugspitze Experience: Cable Car vs. Cogwheel Train
The cogwheel train, on the other hand, provides a more leisurely and scenic route. It starts from Garmisch-Partenkirchen, travels through tunnels, and offers evolving views of the landscape, including the beautiful Eibsee.
Cost Considerations: A round-trip ticket for both options typically costs around €75. However, considering a one-way ticket for each can sometimes be a more cost-effective and experience-rich choice.
Hiking the Zugspitze: Routes for Every Adventurer
+1 Hikers should be prepared for steep ascents, exposed sections, and potentially challenging weather conditions. Another well-regarded route is the Reintal route, often described as the 'easiest' way up, though still a substantial undertaking. This path typically starts near the Partnach Gorge and leads through the Reintal valley, with an overnight stay at the Reintalangerhütte often recommended before the final steep climb to the Knorrhütte and then the summit.
For those seeking a different starting point, the hike from the Ehrwalder Almbahn valley station in Austria is also a viable option, offering a different perspective of the massif. Key Hiking Tips: Regardless of the route, proper preparation is crucial. This includes carrying sufficient sun protection, food, and water, as hikes can be long and strenuous.
Experiencing the Zugspitze Summit: Beyond the Views
The summit area features modern architecture, described by some as feeling like a 'secret villain HQ,' which adds to the dramatic atmosphere.
Budgeting for the Summit: Be prepared for higher prices at the summit's dining establishments. A cappuccino can cost around €4.50, and other items are similarly priced, reflecting the logistical challenges of operating at such a high altitude.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit