The Obersee lake near the Königssee in Berchtesgaden, reflecting green forest and steep rock walls with a waterfall

Berchtesgaden at a glance

FLIGHT FROM LONDON
ABOUT 2 HRS
TIME DIFFERENCE
1 HR AHEAD OF THE UK
CURRENCY
EURO (€)
ENTRY
NO VISA FOR SHORT STAYS
PLUGS
TYPE C / F · 230V

The nearest airport is Salzburg, just over the border in Austria. The EU is bringing in new entry checks, so check the rules on GOV.UK before you book.

Rough flight times from London.

Best time to visit Berchtesgaden

  1. JAN2°C average daytime highSnow, winter sports, a good time to go
  2. FEB4°C average daytime highSnow, winter sports, a good time to go
  3. MAR8°C average daytime highThaw, quieter
  4. APR13°C average daytime highSpring, some trails shut, quieter
  5. MAY18°C average daytime highGreen, boats running, a good time to go
  6. JUN21°C average daytime highHiking season, best time to go
  7. JUL23°C average daytime highHiking, busy, best time to go
  8. AUG23°C average daytime highHiking, busy, best time to go
  9. SEP19°C average daytime highClear, quieter, best time to go
  10. OCT14°C average daytime highAutumn colour, a good time to go
  11. NOV8°C average daytime highDamp, quiet, quieter
  12. DEC3°C average daytime highSnow, Christmas markets, a good time to go

Temperatures are the average daytime high in °C.

June to September is the best time for hiking and lake boats, with long days and the high paths clear of snow. July and August are busiest, so take an early boat on the Königssee. September and early October bring clear air and autumn colour. Winter is snowy, with small ski areas, a famous bobsleigh track and Christmas markets in December.

Things to do in Berchtesgaden

TICKETED

Königssee boat trip

Quiet electric boats glide down the long, narrow lake to St Bartholomä church. In summer, carry on to Salet and walk to the Obersee.

TICKETED

Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest)

A mountain-top house reached by a special bus and a brass-lined lift, with huge views. Open from about mid-May to October.

TICKETED

Salt mine

Ride a miners' train into the old salt mine, slide down wooden chutes and cross an underground salt lake.

TICKETED

Jenner cable car

A cable car up the Jenner for views over the Königssee and the Watzmann, with walks from the top.

FREE

Hintersee and Ramsau

A clear mountain lake in the forest and a much-photographed village church with the mountains behind.

TICKETED

Dokumentation Obersalzberg

A thoughtful museum on the history of the Nazi era on the Obersalzberg, on the site where it happened.

DAY TRIP

Salzburg

Mozart's city, with its old town and fortress, about half an hour away by car or bus.

Berchtesgaden: common questions

How do you get to Berchtesgaden from the UK?

Fly to Salzburg, which has UK flights, then drive or take the bus, about 30 to 45 minutes. Munich is another option, about two and a half hours away.

Is the Königssee open all year?

Boats run most of the year, but the full trip to Salet and the Obersee is usually only in the warmer months. Check timetables before you go.

Is Berchtesgaden good in winter?

Yes, for snow walks, sledging, Christmas markets and small ski areas, though the Eagle's Nest is closed.

How many days do you need in Berchtesgaden?

Three days covers the Königssee, the salt mine and a mountain. A week lets you add longer hikes and Salzburg.

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