Nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, Lake Königssee and the charming town of Berchtesgaden offer a picturesque escape that feels like stepping into a storybook. The crystal-clear waters of Königssee, surrounded by towering mountains, and the historical allure of Berchtesgaden make this region a perfect destination for a tranquil and inspiring weekend getaway. I recently spent a magical weekend there and discovered some amazing places that I hasten to share with you. So, how to plan a weekend in Berchtesgaden:
Immersing in the beauty of lake Königssee.
Start your day with a serene boat ride on Lake Königssee. The electric boats, which have been in operation since 1909, glide silently across the lake, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking scenery without any distractions. The highlight of the boat trip is St. Bartholomä, a picturesque pilgrimage church with its iconic red domes, located on a peninsula surrounded by the emerald waters of Königssee.
Take your time exploring the area around the church. The backdrop of the Watzmann Mountain, the third highest in Germany, adds to the ethereal beauty of the place. Don’t forget to capture some photos – the views are absolutely Instagram-worthy!
Hiking to the Obersee – How to plan a weekend in Berchtesgaden.
After returning to the main dock, lace up your hiking boots and head towards the Obersee, a smaller lake located beyond Königssee. The trail to Obersee is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels. As you walk, the sound of birds chirping and the sight of wildflowers in bloom will make you feel completely at peace.
Once you reach Obersee, you’ll be greeted by a tranquil, mirror-like lake surrounded by lush greenery and rugged cliffs. The rustic Fischunkelalm hut on the far side of Obersee offers a perfect spot for a picnic. Enjoy some traditional Bavarian snacks while soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Discovering historical Berchtesgaden.
How else to plan a weekend in Berchtesgaden? Take a leisurely stroll through the town of Berchtesgaden. The town’s historical center is full of charming streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, traditional Bavarian architecture, and inviting shops. Make sure to visit the Royal Palace, which was once the residence of the Wittelsbach family. The palace’s interiors and its small but beautiful garden are definitely worth exploring.
Exploring Berchtesgaden and visit the Berchtesgaden Salt Mine.
Berchtesgaden Salt Mine – one of the oldest active salt mines in the world. The guided tour takes you deep into the mountain, where you’ll learn about the fascinating history and process of salt mining. The highlight is a thrilling slide down into the depths of the mine, which is fun for both kids and adults alike.
Visit Maria Gern Church – How to plan a weekend in Berchtesgaden.
A little off the beaten path, this baroque church offers stunning views of the Watzmann massif. The peaceful setting makes it a perfect spot for quiet reflection and photography.
Sunset at Eagle’s Nest.
No trip to Berchtesgaden is complete without a visit to the Eagle’s Nest, or Kehlsteinhaus. Perched atop a mountain, this historical site offers panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and valleys. Originally built as a teahouse for Adolf Hitler, it now serves as a restaurant and historical site. The journey to Eagle’s Nest involves a scenic bus ride and an elevator ride through the heart of the mountain. Arrive in time for sunset, and you’ll be treated to one of the most breathtaking views you’ve ever seen.
Dinner at Echostüberl – How to plan a weekend in Berchtesgaden.
Echostüberl – a cozy restaurant that offers hearty Bavarian cuisine. Try the schnitzel or the käsespätzle (a type of cheesy pasta) – both are local favorites. The warm and welcoming atmosphere of Echostüberl is the perfect way to end your first day.
If you have a few free days, make sure to check out the amazing places like the Fairytale Castle Neuschwanstein and the Colorful Munich, which are also located in Bavaria. Bavaria is an incredible region with so much to see and do, you’ll definitely want to come back again and again.
How to get to lake Königssee.
The nearest major airport to Berchtesgaden is Salzburg Airport (SZG), located about 30 kilometers away in Austria. This airport is well-connected to various European cities. Another option is Munich Airport (MUC), approximately 180 kilometers away, which offers more international flight options. Check out Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Salzburg if you are traveling from another country.
From Salzburg Airport:
By Car: Renting a car at Salzburg Airport is the most convenient option. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes via the A1 and A10 highways.
By Train: Take a bus or taxi to Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station). From there, take a train to Berchtesgaden, which involves a transfer at Freilassing. The total journey time is around 1.5 hours.
I highly recommend traveling by car, as it is the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
From Munich Airport:
By Car: The drive from Munich Airport to Berchtesgaden takes approximately 2-2.5 hours via the A92 and A8 highways.
By Train: From Munich Airport, take the S-Bahn to Munich Hauptbahnhof. Then, take a train to Berchtesgaden, usually requiring a transfer at Freilassing. The total journey time is around 3 hours.
If you plan to expand your journey and venture beyond one country, here are my suggestions: check out my posts about the most dreamy places in Salzburg, a quiet escape to Lake Fuschlsee, and charming Davos in Switzerland. The Alps are an area of outstanding beauty with some of the most picturesque villages and towns in Europe! You’ll be pleasantly surprised!
The best places to stay in Berchtesgaden on lake Königssee.
Here are my recommendations for your next getaway to this enchanting region.
Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden: From the moment I arrived at the Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden, I knew I was in for an unforgettable experience. Perched on a hill overlooking the valley, this five-star hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and alpine charm. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Königssee are absolutely breathtaking.
What I Loved:
Stunning Views: Every morning, I woke up to the sight of snow-capped peaks and the serene lake. The vistas from the rooms and the terrace are something out of a dream.
Luxurious Amenities: The hotel boasts a world-class spa, heated outdoor pool, and several gourmet restaurants. After a day of exploring, it was pure bliss to unwind in the sauna or indulge in a delicious meal with a view.
Exceptional Service: The staff at Kempinski went above and beyond to ensure my stay was perfect. From personalized recommendations to thoughtful touches in my room, I felt truly pampered.
Perfect For: Couples seeking a romantic retreat, travelers looking for a luxurious escape, and anyone who appreciates stunning natural beauty.
Hotel EDELWEISS Berchtesgaden: Another fantastic option is Hotel EDELWEISS Berchtesgaden. Located in the heart of the town, this family-run hotel combines traditional Bavarian hospitality with modern comforts. The warm, cozy atmosphere made me feel right at home from the moment I walked in.
What I Loved:
Central Location: Staying here meant I was just a short stroll away from charming cafes, shops, and historic sites. It’s also conveniently close to the Königsee and Berchtesgaden National Park.
Rooftop Spa: The highlight for me was the rooftop spa, complete with an infinity pool offering panoramic views of the Alps. Soaking in the pool as the sun set over the mountains was a magical experience.
Delicious Cuisine: The hotel’s restaurant serves delectable Bavarian dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. I highly recommend trying the hearty breakfast buffet and the traditional evening meals.
Perfect For: Families, solo travelers, and those who want to be in the heart of the action while still enjoying top-notch amenities.
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