7 things to see in Garmisch-Partenkirchen- the prettiest ski town in Germany

The Alpine setting and colourful vibes of Garmisch-Partenkirchen inspire you to visit this fairy tale town in Germany. Lying deeply in the Bavarian south, it’s an amazing day trip from Munich. While in Munich, don’t hesitate to visit the astonishing Nymphenburg Palace. Staying few days is more than advisable as you can explore the rich natural scenery around. If you’re on the road trip by car, the enchanting Fussen town and Neuschwanstein Castle is only 30 km away.

It’s home to the highest peak in Germany, Zugspitze, and the popular skiing destination. Even if you’re not about hiking, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature.

Visiting the nearby Eibsee is just enchanting and will offer your nature photography such a wide panorama of images. Partnachklamm Gorge is a short but fascinating hike so follow these tips if you arrive even for one day.

The historic shine of Garmish-Partenkirchen belongs to 1936 when it hosted the Winter Olympic Games. Before that, there were only two separate towns.

Discover the incredible charm of Garmisch-Partenkirchen next time you visit Munich or even Innsbruck.

1. Ludwigstrasse- the cutest street in the town

The lovely Ludwigstrasse belongs to Partnachklamm where adorable facades and cute shops stay in perfect harmony. Following the route towards Wank mountains, this pretty street lies on the way to the river Partnach.

Admiring artistic murals will raise up your mood even in the cloudiest weather. These paintings or „Lüftlmalerei” express the ordinary life or Bible motives in the typical Bavarian style.

Several hotels, restaurants and Werdenfels Regional Museum will capture your attention while you enjoy the details.

2. Partnachklamm Gorge- a natural wonder in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Partnachklamm Gorge is a fantastic surprise of this wonderful town, an incredible trail that river Partnach created in the rocks. Walk about 30 minutes from the Ludwigstrasse to the Garmisch Olympia Stadium and you’ll start the trail.

Unfortunately, I was only one day and the trail seemed quite long. From the Garmisch Olympia Stadium, it’s still more than 30 minutes to walk. At this point, you’ll see many people going in this direction, even with the horse, so you cannot miss.

The trail that follows the gorge is very short, precisely 720 meters long. The turquoise colours of the water make it pretty magical to visit.

Höllentalklamm Gorge- another stunning canyon in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Höllentalklamm Gorge is nestled six kilometres from the Garmisch Partenkirchen, at the southwest. Numerous tunnels and bridges lead to the summit (1,045m) through this wonderful gorge. Among the various trails, one of them even leads to Zugspitze.

3. Discover the Old town of Garmisch

If you thought that Partenkirchen is the prettiest of this town, you’re in doubt. Old town of Garmish is equally colourful and enticing. It’s much larger so expect to find a richer choice of restaurants, bars and shops.

4. Relax in the park that praises the writer of the Neverending Story

The Michael-Ende Kurpark in the middle of Garmisch honors one of Germany’s most famous writers. His classical novel „The Neverending Story“ is a masterpiece, better known by its movie.

The hometown of Michael Ende beautifully reflects his literal ideas in this awesome park. Take the chance to enjoy the flowers, shady trees and oasis of peace. In summer plenty of live concerts happen here.

5. Walk to see the Ski-Jump

On the way to Partnachklamm, you’ll notice the most famous sight of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It gets a particular attention as a New Year’s jump every year.

Since 1923 it’s very inspirational to see this fantastic setting.

Visiting the arena is free and you can even have guided tours to learn more about the adventure of ski-jumping.

6. Lake Eibsee- an enchanting oasis close to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Lake Eibsee holds the fascinating shine of emerald colours, being the most beautiful lake in Bavaria. Don’t miss this natural wonder, only 6 km from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The village of Grainau stretches below Eibsee.

Eibsee lies at the doorstep of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain. Beyond the challenging hike to Zugspitze, you can also take a cable car from Eibsee.

The trail around the lake takes 7,6 km and you can recharge at the Seerestaurant & Café Eibsee-Pavillon.

The Hotel Eibsee offers a stunning retreat to enjoy the marvels of the lake even more. During the summer months, the pedal boats are available to rent.

7. Amazing hikes in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

An Alpine town like Garmisch-Partenkirchen is an outdoor paradise where awesome views follow one another. It lies not only at the embrace of Germany’s highest peak but numerous other trails.

Philosopher’s Weg

Philosopher’s Trail is undoubtedly the easiest path, covering only 5 km from Partenkirchen to Farchant. Between the pine forests and divine meadows unveil the numerous walking trails where you can enjoy mountain views.

From Platon to Nietzsche and Schopenhauer- you’ll find quotes of famous philosophers at many benches along the way. The starting point is the pilgrimage church of St. Anton.

Zugspitze

Visiting Zugspitze (2962m), Germany’s highest peak, is something to dream of so take a challenge. With the cable car from the lake Eibsee, you can easily arrive to this stunning platform.

Zugspitze is popular all year around. On the peak itself enjoy the fantastic meadow full of caves and glaciers- Zugspitzeplatt. A cogway is also a fantastic way to arrive to Zugpitze, leading to the village of Grainau.  

The trail to Royal Villa

The King’s House in Schachen is a lovely chalet, taking 3 hours each way. Belonging to King Ludwig, this hunting lodge enjoys scenic views.

An alpine botanical garden with plants from all around the world surrounds the chalet. In this pristine atmosphere delight yourself with the coffee or drink on the rooftop bar.

Where to eat in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Zum Wildschütz- a typical Bavarian restaurant where you can enjoy summer garden and home-style cooking;

Berggasthof Pflegersee- fantastic view near the lake, awesome food and affordable prices;

Bräustüberl Garmisch- the historic restaurant from 1663 with local cuisine and great service;

Vegan food in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Pano – Vegan-friendly café- a cozy place to have a vegan breakfast, particularly croissants, various bowls and plant-based coffee;

Shaka Burgerhouse- at the main square of Garmisch you’ll find the best vegan burgers;

Bungalow 7- cozy restaurant with winter garden and buffet style;

La Baita- Italian restaurant where you can enjoy vegan pizza and other delicacies;

Where to stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

If you’re not taking a day trip from Munich, please check out these awesome ideas and explore more.

Budget hostels/hotels

Moun10 Jugendherberge– a cozy place with a fabulous breakfast, just near the train station;

Hotel Atlas Sport– comfortable rooms, affordable prices and great location near the train station;

Mid-range hotels

Aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen– awesome  restaurant and spa center included, amazing location too;

Hotel Drei Mohren– a traditional hotel with a beautiful mountain view;

Biohotel Garmischer Hof– eco-hotel in the heart of Garmisch with spa facilities and organic dishes;

Bavaria Biohotel– lovely hotel with a large garden and amazing local food;

Luxury hotels

Hotel Staudacherhof History & Lifestyle– resembling a castle, it’s a fabulous hotel with a pool, large garden and mountain view;

Das Graseck – mountain hideaway & health care- modern hotel located at the hills above Garmisch-Partenkirchen;

Final thoughts

Visiting Garmisch-Partenkirchen is such a surprise as it offers a plenty of nature trails. You’ll find not only a famous ski town, but a true fairy tale. The colourful vibes will entice you as you explore the amazing Old town.

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