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Ultimate Guide: Stunning Eibsee Lake and Zugspitze Mountain, everything you need to know
If you are looking for one of the top destinations to add to your Germany itinerary then you have come to the right place! A beautiful lake sits at the base of the tallest mountain in Germany, and you simply MUST see it!
Lake Eibsee, with its crystal clear water , sits at the foot of the Zugspitze Mountain (die Zugspitze Berg.) Together they present the opportunity for one of the best day trips, not only in Bavaria, but in all of Germany! Yes, it is one of the popular destinations in Deutschland and for good reason! add it to your Germany bucket list !
In one beautiful place you can experience:
- stunning views from the summit of Zugspitze
- Pristine hiking trails
- Dining opportunities with world class views
- beer gardens
- snowy landscapes in winter, with the opportunity for winters sports nearby
- And so much more!
First time visiting this destination? you’ll find everything you need to know in this ultimate guide!
*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.
Table of Contents
Eibsee Lake and Zugspitze Mountain: Ultimate Guide
Eibsee zugspitze location:.
Eibsee Germany and Mount Zugspitze are located in the Bavarian region of Germany, just 8 miles outside of the town of Garmisch-partenkirchen.
(looking for information on getting there? Keep reading or use the table of contents to skip ahead)
How do I get from Zugspitze to Eibsee?
These two are in such close proximity to one another that they share a parking lot, making it easy to fit both of these stunning locations into one day ! Spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the lake and the mountain, or make a whole day of it!
Eibsee Lake, Germany
Eibsee, is the beautiful PRIVATELY OWNED lake on the Zugspitze (See an der Zugspitze.) The lake sometimes appears blue, sometimes green, but is ever stunning.
“Eibsee Things to do”
Let’s talk about all of the fun things to do at Eibsee Lake!
Walk the trail around the lake
Can you walk around Eibsee? Yes you can! It’s one of the best things to do at Eibsee! There is a trail that runs all the way around the lake (Eibsee rundweg) , and as with everything in Germany, it is immaculately maintained.
How long is the Eibsee hike?
There’s a 4.7 mile idyllic walking trail around the lake, with picturesque views of both the crystal clear blue/green lake, and the towering mountains that surround it. This is without a doubt one of the most scenic walks in Bavaria. Don’t miss it!
Starting location: Just in front of the Eibsee Hotel, near the recommended parking.
The best direction: You can walk either direction around the lake but I’m told if you want to get the best views then the best way is to walk counterclockwise. In my excitement, I forgot this detail and marshaled on in a clockwise fashion. It was still pretty!
How long does it take to walk around Eibsee Lake? It takes just under 2 hours to walk around the entire lake (2.3 mph pace)
Eibsee trail map: Note the area of #2 on the map. That’s where you’ll find the Eibsee Beach (Eibsee strand.)
As you circle around the lake, you will be treated to various vantage point views of the mountains.
swimming at Eibsee lake (Eibsee Schwimmen)
Take a dip in summer …swimming is permitted. As with any alpine lake, the water doesn’t get very warm. The water temperature fluctuates between 17 and 22 degrees Celsius ( 62.6 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit) in this alpine lake. (20-22 in Summer) A bit cold for me but I may try it next time. It would surely be invigorating!
Fishing Eibsee
Fishing is an exclusive benefit of guests at the Eibsee Hotel (described later.) Hotel guests have access to a fishing boat. Bring your catch back to the hotel and the chef will prepare it for you, made to order! The hotel states that you need to indicate that you would like to fish when booking.
Fishing season: May 1 to October 1 Requirements: a valid fishing license AND a permit from the hotel. Types of fish in the lake: Lake trout, Coregonus albula, Lake whitefish, Rainbow trout, Tench
boat rental
If you would like to get out on the lake there are several kinds of boats for rent. You can rent a rowing boat and paddle boats, or take a motorized boat tour. They offer rowboat, paddle boat, and stand up paddle boat rental. Check with Eibsee Boat Rental for details on renting boats and motor boat rides.
Guests of Eibsee Hotel receive access to their kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, and stand-up paddleboards free of charge.
lake webcam
If your a dreamer, like me, and can’t resist allowing your mind to travel when you can’t, check the Eibsee webcam.
Dining at Eibsee Lake
There are several options for dining around the lake. We found an outdoor table at the Eibsee Alm. The weather in late September was perfect for dining al fresco!
Address: Eibsee Alm, Seefeldweg 5, 82491 Grainau, Germany (450 meters from the recommended parking)
More options:
Check the Eibsee website for more information on Eibsee Alm and other dining options at the lake.
This was our first experience with Flammkuchen , a cracker thin pizza-like crust with toppings (German pizza?) We sampled the traditional version with sour cream, bacon and red onion, and one with tomato, mozzarella, and arugula….BOTH delicious! and check out the view of the mountain from our table!
(That’s my Spezi on the table, one of things I miss the most about Germany. It’s the perfect combination of cola mixed with orange. Mezzo is the same thing…try one!)
Zugspitze Mountain (Berg Zugspitze)
Zugspitze is part of the Wetterstein Mountains, which are located in the Bavarian Alps.
Elevation: 9,717.848 feet (2,962 meters above sea level)
Jaw dropping scenery at the top! At the top, on a clear day and weather permitting, you’ll be treated to a 360 degree panorama, with a view of 400 mountain peaks! Some of the best views in Germany!
If conditions are favorable, you’ll be able to see 4 countries from up there : Austria, Switzerland, Germany and Italy.
viewing platform at the top:
“popular activities on Zugspitze Mountain”
explore the Glacier
There are technically 3 glaciers at the top of Zugspitze. The glacier on the Zugspitze plateau can be explored individually or as part of a group during a guided tour.
Tour: summer season, daily at 11.00 am and 1.30 pm Leaves from the souvenir kiosk at the Restaurant Sonnalpin main entrance; meeting point: Duration: 45 minutes Cost: free! Don’t miss the Glacier Adventure station (Five interactive stations for adults & children ) Check here for more information about exploring the glacier (glaciers) on Zugspitze Mountain.
You’ll see the glacier in this map of Zugspitze:
Hiking Zugspitze (wandern Zugspitze)
Hiking up Zugspitze isn’t for amateurs. For the majority of us, Zugspitze hike opportunities are going to be limited to the Glacier . If you’re looking for more trails you’ll find them at a lower altitude on nearby peaks. (discussed later) However, there are a few “demanding” trails and you can find information on them here.
Tobogganing on Zugspitze!
The glacier toboggan runs can be used all year round if there is enough snow. Bring your own sled or rent when you get to the top. The rental point is located in the wooden hut on the sundeck of Restaurant Sonnalpin.
Rental cost: bob sledge or wooden sledge (including a helmet) starts at 18,50 EUR per person, per day.
mountain climbing and mountaineering
If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can do a bit of mountain climbing on Zugspitze .
winter options
This area is perfect for winter activities. In fact, it was chosen to host the winter olympics in 1936. Winter options include skiing and sledding. Find information on winter activities here.
more webcams!
Can’t wait to get your fix? Check out their site to view several webcams on Zugspitze mountain!
dining options on Zugspitze Mountain (Restaurant Zugspitze)
There are 3 restaurants on Zugspitze:
- Panorama 2962 is a summit restaurant. Dine at almost 3,000 metres with stunning scenery, panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Sonnalpin Glacier Restaurant , this cozy cabin is a self-service restaurant with breathtaking views.
- Gletschergarten on Zugspitze plateau, relax and grab a snack among the snow capped craggy peaks in this glass pavilion restaurant.
getting up the mountain
Mix and match these options as you please. Purchase your tickets and you can decide which combination suits you best. From the Eibsee Lake area there are a few options for getting up to the top and back down again , which can be a tiny bit complicated. I broke it down into simple terms (I hope!)
Note: In spring and autumn, regular maintenance work is performed during these times the cable cars might be out of operation. Always check before you go.
(1) eibsee-seilbahn cable car
The Seilbahn Zugspitze cable car takes you from the valley station at Eibsee Lake all the way to the summit where the famous golden summit cross is located.
(2) cogwheel train Zugspitze, Cable car combo
You can opt for a cog wheel train/cable car combination ticket. The train will take you through and up the mountain, as far as the plateau. You will then need to take the Gletscherbahn cable car to the summit if you want to reach the golden summit cross.
Note: More than half of the trip by train is through a tunnel in the mountain. It’s not very scenic, but if the thought of taking the cable car makes you weak in the knees, it may be the best option for you.
You may take the Gletscherbahn Cable Car , the cable car that runs between the plateau and the peak, as many times as you like on the day of your trip ticket.
( cogwheel power!) cogwheels are a toothed rail-rack type of system often used in regions where trains operate on steep heights.)
Getting back down from the summit (round trip journey)
from the mountain station either: (1) take the Gletscherbahn back down to the plateau and then the train down to the parking below OR (2) you can take Sielbahn Zugspitze cable car back down.
cable car price
start at 68 € adults and included one ascent and one descent to the plateau, you choose! As stated, the Gletscherbahn cable car can be used several times on the day of the visit.
Staying in the area for a while? You may save money with the ZugspitzeCard or the ClassicCard.
You’ll find ticket information here and information on operating hours here.
When is the best time to visit Eibsee Zugspitze?
Summer months bring warm weather conditions and your best opportunities for swimming in the lake. Both the lake trail and mountain transportation are accessible in winter months. Temperatures at the lake are much milder than they are high up on the mountain.
No matter the time of year if you’re heading up the mountain dress in warm layers, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and bring sunglasses!
Source: NOAA (National Centers for Environmental Information)
These are weather averages for estimation purposes only. For the latest weather information. You can check the forecastt at Weather.com for Zugspitze and Eibsee here.
Eibsee is beautiful in winter! No need for good weather, let it snow! let it snow! let it snow!
Planning to visit Germany in winter ? Don’t miss my Ultimate Guide to Traveling Germany in Winter !
More options near Eibsee Zugspitze
Here is where you will find loads of hiking trails! To get an idea of the trails in the area check out this hiking trail map at the Zugspitze website.
Here is a link to times for all cable cars in the area, including Zugspitze.
Aspitze Mountain
Alpspitze Mountain, the next one over, has outstanding views of Zugspitze and more fun things to fill out your itinerary! The Garmisch-Classic cable car will get you there and back. See ticket information for Aspitze Mountain including information on summer (hiking, climbing, adventure trails) winter trips, and a restaurant listing.
The Wank is a short lift up to Wank Mountain, the mountain opposite Zugspitze and Alpspitze, that offers panoramic views of Zugspitze. At the top, you’ll find relatively flat walking trails, as well as dining options. See the Zugsitze Wank page for information on prices for getting up Wank Mountain, hiking trails, winter activities, and dining options on Wank Mountain.
getting to Eibsee Lake and Zugspite Mountain
We drove, but note that the rack railway trains from Garmisch will zip you around between these locations (see the map.) The website has information on summer and winter train service.
public transportation
Train The train station in Eibsee (Bahnhof Eibsee) is located just a short walk from the lake (600 meters) and the cable car station (300 meters) You’ll need to make your way to Garmisch Train station and then take the train described below to Eibsee. Travel time to Garmisch from:
- Fussen: 2 hours
- Munich: 1.5 hours
Round trip train from Garmisch
The cogwheel train leaves from Garmisch, takes you to Eibsee, up the mountain, back down and to Garmisch again all on one ticket. The trip is offered in summer and in winter. Trip also possible in the opposite direction.
Train station: Zugspitzbahn station Garmisch-Partenkirchen Parking for the Zugspitze Bahn: Olympiastraße 27, 82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany (47.49000249024724, 11.096812079997889) Trip duration / journey time: 3-4 hours
Get all of the details on this single ticket option!
This area is well connected by bus. The blue Eibsee bus route will take you between Eibsee, Grainau and Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Deutsche Bahn App: Download the Deutsche Bahn app to easily navigate public transport in Germany!
Driving Directions: google maps or any other GPS will take you right to the large parking lot
Parking Zugspitze / Eibsee ( Zugspitze / Eibsee Parken) If you’re driving in, and plan to walk the lake and go up Zugspitze, there is parking facilities in front of the Eibsee Hotel. Eibsee parking (Eibsee Parkplatz) address: Eibsee Bushalt, 82491 Grainau, Germany
check here for current parking fees: Eibsee Parking
THE EIBSEE LOT AUTOMAT DOES NOT ACCEPT CARDS. (pay at the machine BEFORE you leave the lot.)
As you can see there are several parking areas in the immediate vicinity so finding a parking spot shouldn’t be a problem. (You may need to zoom out a bit to see them.)
Where to stay: Eibsee Zugspitze
Eibsee lake.
Eibsee Hotel There’s a 4 star hotel right on Lake Eibsee with spa serves that’s worth the splurge. It can be seen there across the lake. Prices start at around 200 € per night for double occupancy.
book it here on Booking.com!
How about a little Hansel and Gretel fairy tale cottage tucked back in the forest? This absolute gem is just 5 km from Eibsee.
book it on booking.com !
Hotel am Badersee It’s just 3.4 km from Eibsee and I’ll let the photo speak for itself!
book it on booking.com!
Berghotel Hammersbach 7 km Boasting an altitude of 1,705 metres, the Hochalm mountain pasture is a popular hiking and day-trip destination. Alpspitzbahn – 4,300 feet
Zugspitze Mountain accommodations
There are some mountain huts on Zugspitze that take overnight guests. Here are a few of my favorites: (these can’t be booked at Booking.com so just Google search them)
- Höllentalangerhütte, 6-km hike from parking in Hammersbach, this simple seasonal lodge on a rugged alpine slope is an 8-km hike from Eibsee lake and an 11-km hike from the Zugspitze
- Jubiläumsgrathütte (Höllentalgrathütte) you’ll be rouging it but it looks kind of fantastic!
- Knorr Hut, bed down among mountains dates from 1855,
- Iglu-Dorf – Zugspitze wooden Igloos? They look like large wine barrels tipped over on their sides to me!
Final thoughts
If you follow my blog you may already know that Bavaria is my absolute favorite area of Germany. It is quintessential Germany and the opportunities for exploring are endless. If you’re on the fence about spending more time in Bavaria just do it! and be sure to add this Zugspitze Eibsee day to the top of your list!
More fun things to add to your Germany Itinerary Ehrenberg Castle and Highline 179 Suspension Bridge Just 26 miles away, in Austria, are some dreamy castle ruins and for those of you with nerves of steel, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Check out my post here: Ehrenberg Castle Ruins, and Highline 179 Suspension Bridge, Reutte Austria
Bavaria USA
Can’t make it to Germany just yet? Check out the ridiculously cute Bavarian town surrounded by mountains in Leavenworth Washington USA!
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Triberg Germany in the Black Forest, Complete Guide (with photos)
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Travel Guide to Zugspitze in Bavaria: How to Visit Germany’s Highest Mountain
The highest point in germany.
Zugspitze looms high over the cosy town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen – and, in fact, over all of Germany.
Being “the highest” perhaps shouldn’t be a big deal – but for some reason, it is. Seeing, visiting or even climbing the highest mountain in Germany just sounds cool .
Even though it’s only 2,962 metres high (which isn’t that high in alpine standards), Zugspitze is awesome.
We whizzed up with the cable car and had a great time at the freezing cold top in October. We also returned on another trip in March where Alex went downhill skiing .
This is our guide to visiting Zugspitze, including what to expect, how to get up there, what to bring and more. Have fun!
Where to stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen?
- Budget : Hotel Atlas Sport – One of the cheapest options for ensuite double rooms in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Free parking.
- Value for money : Biohotel Garmischer Hof – Amazing views, organic food and a spa and wellness centre. Our favourite hotel in GaPa.
- Luxury : Bader Suites – Luxurious, spacious apartments with everything you need.
Search for the best value accommodation in Garmisch-Partenkirchen here .
Table of contents
Cable car details
Cable car opening times, cable car price, how to get to zugspitze with public transport, skiing at zugspitze, when to visit zugspitze, what to bring to zugspitze, minimise your impact.
What to expect at Zugspitze
You can’t miss Zugspitze.
If it isn’t cloudy (which it invariably often is in mountainous regions) Zugspitze is easily spotted from Garmisch-Partenkirchen and, indeed, even from Munich on clear days.
Visiting Zugspitze is a popular tourist attraction in Bavaria and has been for many years. Who doesn’t want to be able to say they’ve been to the highest point in Germany?
And not only that: the view from up there is incredible .
We also visited nearby Alpspitze , and though the view from there was beautiful in its own right, it doesn’t really compare to Zugspitze.
What makes Zugspitze so special is that you have a clear view in all directions – including towards Austria where the mountainous landscapes continue as far as the eye can see.
Zugspitze is located roughly 10 kilometres southwest of Garmisch-Partenkirchen and 100 kilometres southwest of Munich , the Bavarian capital.
Scroll down to learn how to get to Zugspitze from Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
How to get to Zugspitze
As the equally famous and stunning Lake Eibsee sits right at the base of Zugspitze, “how to get to Zugspitze” basically has the same answer as “how to get to Eibsee”.
(Except if you plan to visit Zugspitze from the Austrian side of the border, of course. We visited from the German side.)
You’re spoiled with options of how to reach Zugspitze.
Here’s a brief overview of how to get to Zugspitze:
- Taking the cable car up (“Seilbahn Zugspitze”) is the easiest way to scale Zugspitze.
- The cable car runs from the parking lot at Lake Eibsee .
- Driving there with your own vehicle is the fastest option. It’s only 15-20 minutes away from Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
- You can also travel by public bus to the cable car. Scroll down to find our description of how to reach Zugspitze with public transport.
- Or why not cycle or hike if you feel fit?
- An alternative way up the mountain is the combination of the cogwheel train called Zugspitzbahn from Garmisch-Partenkirchen (or several other stops) to the platform at 2,600 metres and then a cable car (“Gletscherbahn aerial cablecar”) to the top.
We drove in our own car from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Lake Eibsee, parked and then took the cable car to the top – so that route is what we’re focusing on first in this Zugspitze guide.
Further down, you can read about the parking facilities and prices as well as how to get to Zugspitze from Garmisch-Partenkirchen with public transport.
Riding the cable car from Lake Eibsee to the top of Zugspitze provides an elevation gain of 1,945 metres over a length of 4.5 kilometres.
The Eibsee valley station is located at 998 metres above sea level and the Zugspitze top station sits at 2,943 metres above sea level.
The cable car opened in 2017 and broke three records : The world’s longest unsupported span at 3,213 metres, the highest steelwork pylon for an aerial tramway at 127 metres and the world’s largest height difference at 1,945 metres.
The two cabins can transport up to 580 passengers per hour.
Check out the live webcam view here .
From September to June, the cable car runs from 08:30 to 16:45 .
In July and August, it runs from 08:00 to 17:45 .
The journey time is just 10 minutes with a run at least every 30 minutes .
Check the operating times + when the cable cars are closed for maintenance here .
Visit Zugspitze with a Zugspitze ticket (that includes one ascent, one descent and unlimited rides on the Gletscherbahn cable car on the day of your visit) for 57 EUR per adult (~ 60 USD)* in winter and 68 EUR per adult (~ 72 USD)* in summer.
For an additional 13 EUR (~ 14 USD)*, you can also opt for a 2 Peak pass that includes both a Zugspitze ticket as well as a Garmisch-Classic ticket that can be used for one ascent and one descent in total with the Alpspitzbahn, Hochalmbahn and Kreuzeckbahn cable cars.
* These prices are from March 2023 .
There are different discounts for children and families.
For up to date prices and to buy tickets, visit the Zugspitze website here .
It’s possible to park by the Zugspitze cable car right next to Lake Eibsee.
The parking lot is open from 05:00-22:00 . There’s a height limit of 2,20 metres.
There are possibly options for free parking on the road leading up to the lake and cable car.
Check out the latest prices and parking rules on the official website here .
Zugspitze is easily reached by public transport.
You can take the blue Eibsee bus from Garmisch-Partenkirchen directly to Zugspitze in about 40 minutes.
The last return during summer is at about 20:00. From October to mid-June, the last bus returns to town at 19:10.
From July to September, there’s a bus called the Eibsee-Express-Bus with the trip taking just 20 minutes.
See the bus timetable and prices (in German) here .
You can also get to Zugspitze from Garmisch-Partenkirchen with Zugspitzbahn .
The cogwheel train terminates at the Zugspitze mountain at 2,600 metres (via Grainau and Eibsee) where you can take a cable car called “Gletscherbahn aerial cablecar” to the top.
You can buy tickets at the train station in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
See the train timetable here .
How cool is it that you can ski down Germany’s highest mountain ?
Zugspitze has a quite well-developed ski area with 20 kilometres of snow-sure runs suitable for all skill levels.
Because of its height, the ski season at Zugspitze is very long – often starting in December and ending in May.
If you’re not into downhill skiing, it’s also possible to hire bob sledges and wooden sledges to go tobogganing down Zugspitze.
You can either reach the ski area by the Seilbahn to the top of Zugspitze and then take the Gletcherbahn down to the ski area or by travelling there directly with the Zugspitzbahn.
For even more downhill skiing options in Garmisch-Partenkirchen (including some really steep ones!), also check out the skiing at Hausberg and Kreuzeck .
Read more about skiing at Zugspitze (including prices) at the official website here or check out the webcams here for a current update on the conditions.
When is the best time to visit Zugspitze?
Well, visiting Zugspitze with the first or last cable car will generally bring the best possible light and fewest crowds.
It will, however, also be the coldest time to visit.
We visited Zugspitze for the first time on an early morning in October and it was freezing cold up there.
Visiting later in winter you have the option of skiing (as described above).
In summer, there are more people than in the shoulder seasons but you’ll probably also have a warmer experience.
No matter the season or time of day, just get up there! Unless the forecasts say it will be cloudy around the top station, it’s beautiful to see the surrounding peaks even if there are clouds lower down.
You can always take a look at the webcams beforehand.
- Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it!
- A good camera – here’s a guide to the gear we use .
- Sunscreen (adlink) . The sun can be strong up there in the summer even if it’s cold. Also remember that snow is highly reflective.
- Hiking shoes or winter boots .
- Warm clothes . You’re more than 2,000 metres higher up than in Garmisch-Partenkirchen at the top of Zugspitze. That means it’s going to be a helluva lot colder up there.
- Water and snacks is always a good idea.
To minimise your impact during your visit at Zugspitze, follow these guidelines:
- Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
- Avoid single-use plastics , including straws.
- Dispose of waste properly . While putting your trash in a nearby trashcan is convenient, wrappers and other small items are prone to get taken by the wind.
- Take only photos, leave only footprints . Let everything stay in its natural place.
- Be considerate of other visitors .
- Respect wildlife.
Thanks for reading
Thanks for reading our travel guide to Zugspitze in Germany. We hope it has been useful!
What do you think about Zugspitze? Is it just the highest mountain or does it have any other appeal?
If you’ve been, it would be fantastic to hear your best tips for visiting Zugspitze in the comments.
If you haven’t been to the top yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us what’s on your mind. We’re happy to help you with your planning.
Pin for later:
Our favourite travel resources:
- Booking.com for cheap hotels.
- Momondo for the best flight deals.
- SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .
Our camera gear:
- Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
- DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
- Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
- See all of our camera gear here .
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8 thoughts on “ Travel Guide to Zugspitze in Bavaria: How to Visit Germany’s Highest Mountain ”
Thanks for the article! It is so useful for me! However I got one question, I saw you mentioned that the cable car only operating
“From September to June, the cable car runs from 08:30 to 16:45. In July and August, it runs from 08:00 to 17:45.”
Cable car service is not available in October/November? If that is the case, then how do we get to Zugspitze during Oct/Nov? Thanks in advance.
That’s great to hear! And yes, don’t worry, the cable car runs all year from 08:30 to 16:45 – except for July and August when it runs from 08:00 to 17:45. So visiting in October and November is no problem at all 🙂
Thank you so much for the reply! Very glad to know that, It is very helpful to me!
Hello!! Your post is very informative, thank you very much! I would you like to know how to get from Zugspitz to Alpspitze, and what to do and see in both attractions? Thanks!!
Hi Fernanda, we’re glad you think so!
The easiest way to get between Zugspitze and Alspitze is surely with a car as there is ample parking space at both cable car stations. Buses also run frequently to both, but we’re not 100% sure if a bus goes directly between the two. Connecting in GaPa would definitely be doable, though.
For the best things to do at Alspitze, check out our complete guide to Garmisch-Partenkirchen where we have written about our experience there.
What an detailed article ! Kudos ! Exceptionally well documented.
Thanks a lot Pawan!
Thank you alots. full of helpful information. Planning to go tomorrow and you have saved us alots of time.
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The Zugspitze and Upper Bavaria
An uplifting day on the zugspitze and in the bavarian alps.
We go to the Top of Germany on this tour via a modern cable car up to the top of the Zugspitze mountain. At just shy of 3,00o meters (9,700 ft), the views from the summit are spectacular – one can see all the way to Italy on a fine day. On the visitors platform there are lookout platforms facing every direction. Up top there are a few restaurants, including Germany’s highest Biergarten, a museum, a weather station and you can even cross the border at the top, as part of the Zugspitze is in Austria. We can also visit the bowl, which is a ski area in winter. Although there are three ways to get up & down the mountain, we now almost exclusively use the record-setting new cable car from the Eibsee.
We have several nice options for the rest of the day, including spending time at the Eibsee (Lake Eib), visiting the resort town Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Linderhof Palace, Oberammergau, or even riding an alpine coaster or a short hike through a dramatic gorge.
Garmisch is a fantastic Pure Bavarian village and the host site of one of the four original alpine ski races. It is a lovely stroll down the main car-free street amongst the wonderfully painted buildings. Oberammergau is another lovely town known for the Passion Play and wood carvings. Linderhof Palace is extravagant and secluded, and a true highlight. It is where King Ludwig II spent most of his time. The enchanting gardens are a delight.
If you are nature lovers, we can spend some time at the Eibsee or walk the loggers’ trail through the exciting Partnach Gorge. Another action activity is riding an alpine coaster, which is basically your own private sled on rails (or on a track). This is a great family activity.
Tour Highlights
- Trip up to the Zugspitze via modern cable car (the historic cog-wheeled train is a slower option)
- Spectacular panoramic views over the top of the Alps.
- “Cross the Border” between Germany and Austria on top of the mountain
- Visit the bowl, get in the snow and maybe even sled a bit
- Background information on the Alps and Bavaria
- Plenty of time for lunch and some shopping
Tour Details
- Door-to-door transportation to and from your hotel or designated place
- Start time is usually 8:30 or 9:00 and we arrive back in Munich around 6 or 6:30 pm
- Experienced, knowledgeable and friendly driver/guide
- Simple and transparent pricing with no hidden costs
Tour Options
- The fabulous Linderhof Castle, the home of King Ludwig II of Bavaria
- A stop in the center of the resort town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen
- A visit to Oberammergau, the Passion Play Village
- Extended lovely alpine drive passing villages and mountain lakes
For families and active travelers:
- Walk through the dramatic Partnach Gorge.
- Ride an exciting alpine coaster – we have three options for this!
- Open Air Farmhouse Museum in Glenleiten
The Zugspitze can be part of a multi-day tour, for example:
- Two-day trip Neuschwanstein + The Zugspitze
Tour Pricing
- The prices for our private tours are group prices, i.e. one price for the entire group.
- Our listed prices are for up to 6 travelers. We are able to accomodate a 7th person for an extra fee.
- Please contact us for a price for 8 or more travelers.
- Entrance fees are extra (listed below)
- Single traveler discounts available
Tour Price: EUR 890,-
- Additional charge for 7th person: EUR 60,-
- Zugspitze Adults: EUR 72,- / 12,-
- (Option) Linderhof Palace EUR 10,00 (under 18 free)
- (Option) Partnachklamm incl. cable car: EUR 11,- / 7,-
- (Option) Alpine coaster: EUR 14,50 (long ride, adult), 11,- (6-15)
All our tours can be customized to suit your needs and interests. Use the button below to get more information.
Zugspitze gallery .
Tour Options Gallery
Active summer
- Hiking and climbing
- Bike and cycle
- Trail-running
- Paragliding
- Bergbahnen Sommer
Active winter
- Ski and Snowboard
- Crosscountry and Biathlon
- Winter hiking
- Snowshoe hiking
- Tobogganing
- More winter
See and experience
- Excursion destinations
- Churces and museums
- Traditions and customs
- Huts and alpine pastures
- Family hotels
- Hiking with children
- Playgrounds
- Alpine Slide
- Petting zoo
- Climbing forest
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- Grenzenlos magazine
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- Interreg project since99
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- A-Z information
- Arrival and transport
- W-lan hotspots
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