Discover Garmisch-Partenkirchen: A Bavarian Alps Gem

Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a bustling holiday destination known for its winter sports and stunning mountain scenery. It has a rich history dating back to AD 15 and has hosted significant events like the 1936 Winter Olympics. The town is surrounded by majestic peaks, including Germany's highest, the Zugspitze.

1. Conquer the Zugspitze

At 2,962 meters, the Zugspitze is a magnet for skiers and hikers. The Bayerischen Zugspitzbahn railway and cable cars offer a full mountain experience. A day trip from Munich provides a convenient way to explore this Alpine wonder.

Official site: https://zugspitze.de/en

2. Enjoy Olympic Winter Sports

The legacy of the 1936 Winter Olympics lives on in Garmisch-Partenkirchen's Olympic Ski Stadium and Ice Stadium. Skiers and skaters can enjoy the same venues that once hosted Olympic athletes.

Address: Karl-und Martin-Neuner-Platz, Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Walking tours in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

3. Explore the Partnach Gorge

The Partnach Gorge offers a dramatic natural spectacle with its deep rocky chasms and ice formations in winter. Nearby, the Höllentalklamm gorge provides additional hiking opportunities.

4. Experience the AlpspiX

The AlpspiX viewing platform offers a thrilling view from a cliff-edge X-shaped structure. Accessible via the Alpspitzebahn cable car, it's a starting point for several scenic hikes.

5. Visit the King's House

The King's House in Schachen, a Swiss chalet-style retreat of King Ludwig II, is reachable by a three-hour hike and is known for its opulent Turkish Hall.

Official site: www.schloesser.bayern.de/englisch/palace/objects/schachen.htm

6. Take a Gondola Ride

Garmisch-Partenkirchen's network of gondolas and ski lifts, like the Hausbergbahn and Kreuzeckbahn, offer easy access to panoramic mountain views and hiking trails.

7. Stroll Historic Partenkirchen

Ludwigstrasse in Partenkirchen is a picturesque street with traditional painted houses, perfect for a leisurely walk and cultural immersion.

8. Enjoy the Eibsee

The Eibsee, near Grainau, offers clear waters and a scenic walking path, making it ideal for hiking or skating, depending on the season.

9. Relax at Michael-Ende Kurpark

This park, named after the author of The Neverending Story, is a serene spot with nature trails and playful sculptures.

Address: Richard-Strauss-Platz 1A, Garmisch-Partenkirchen

10. Visit St. Anton's Pilgrimage Church

St. Anton's church, with its onion dome and Baroque/Rococo interior, is a short walk from Partenkirchen and features poignant war memorials.

Address: St.-Anton 1, Garmisch-Partenkirchen

11. Wander Alpine Meadows

With over 300 kilometers of trails, the area offers leisurely walks like the Philosophers' Trail and more challenging hikes for experienced climbers.

12. Celebrate Richard Strauss

The Richard Strauss Villa is a museum dedicated to the composer, and the town hosts an annual festival in his honor.

Address: Zöppritzstrasse 42, Garmisch-Partenkirchen

13. Dive into Local History

The Werdenfels Regional Museum showcases the area's history with artifacts, folk art, and exhibitions on its past as an independent state.

Address: Ludwigstrasse 47, Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Accommodations in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Hotels range from luxury to budget-friendly, with many located near the town center and transportation hubs, offering amenities like pools, spas, and Alpine views.

Maximize Your Visit with Tours

• Zugspitze Tours: Private day tours offer guided experiences to the summit and insights into Bavarian culture.
• Neuschwanstein Castle Tours: Full-day private tours include visits to the iconic castle, Oberammergau, and Ettal Abbey.

Explore Beyond Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Discover more attractions in Bavaria and nearby Innsbruck, or delve into Munich's rich culture with its museums, galleries, and family-friendly activities.