Best Things to Do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the Summer

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one of my favorite places to visit in Bavaria, with incredible mountain views, scenic hiking trails, and a charming Bavarian town. Whether you want to ride a cable car to Germany’s highest mountain or explore a beautiful gorge, there are so many things to do here.

I visited Garmisch-Partenkirchen in early September and loved exploring the surrounding mountains and nearby attractions. In this guide, I’m sharing the best things to do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, along with tips to help you plan your visit. If you’re wondering how to fit everything into your trip, check out my 3 Days in Garmisch-Partenkirchen itinerary for a suggested day-by-day plan.

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Things to Do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Visit Zugspitze, Germany’s Highest Mountain

One of the best things to do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is visit Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain at 2,962 meters (9,718 feet). The summit offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, and on a clear day, you can even see Lake Eibsee from above!

Once you reach the summit, take some time to walk around the large viewing platform. The views change from every angle, and I honestly could have spent all day up there! If you’re an experienced mountain hiker, you can also hike out toward the Golden Summit Cross, although the route includes exposed sections and isn’t suitable for everyone.

Your Zugspitze ticket also includes access to the Gletscherbahn cable car, which takes you down to the glacier area. Here, you can explore the alpine scenery, visit the small Maria Heimsuchung Chapel built into the rocks, and stop for food or a drink. Depending on the season and weather, you may even find snow during the summer months. We visited at the beginning of September and even though there was no snow we still really enjoyed this area!

When you’re ready for lunch, head to Panorama 2962 at the summit. We enjoyed the beef goulash, curry bratwurst with potato salad, and apple dessert. The restaurant also has large windows overlooking the mountains, so you can enjoy the scenery while you eat.

Tips for visiting Zugspitze:

• Check the weather: Clear skies make a huge difference to the views, so check the forecast before booking.
• Allow enough time: Plan for at least half a day to explore the summit and glacier.
• Dress warmly: Even in summer, temperatures at the summit can be much colder than in town.
• Book ahead: Check current ticket options, cable car schedules, and weather-related operating updates before your visit.

Visiting Zugspitze is a highlight of any trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, especially if you want to experience the Bavarian Alps without completing a strenuous mountain hike.

Visit Lake Eibsee

If you are visiting Zugspitze, you have to stop at Lake Eibsee to take in the views from the shoreline. Located at the base of Zugspitze, the lake is known for its clear turquoise water, small islands, and incredible mountain views. It’s worth visiting even if you only have time for a short walk along the shoreline.

There are several ways to enjoy the lake, depending on the season. During the summer, you can swim in the chilly water, rent a paddleboard or paddle boat, or hike the trail that loops around the lake. The full loop takes a few hours, but you can also explore a shorter section if you’d rather relax and enjoy the scenery.

When we visited, we grabbed gelato from the shop near the lake and sat by the water for a while. It was such a nice way to slow down and enjoy the views after spending time up on Zugspitze.

If you’re already planning to visit Zugspitze, I’d recommend setting aside some extra time for Lake Eibsee. The lake is right near the cable car station, making it easy to combine both attractions in one day.

Walk Through Partnach Gorge (Partnachklamm)

Partnach Gorge was one of my favorite hikes in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The towering rock walls, rushing turquoise water, and narrow walkways make it such a unique place to explore. I loved being able to walk through the gorge and take in the scenery without having to tackle a long or difficult mountain hike. It’s definitely worth adding to your itinerary if you want to experience a different side of the Bavarian Alps!

To reach the gorge, park near the Olympic Ski Jump (Olympiaschanze). From there, it’s about a 20–30 minute walk to the entrance. Parking costs around €5, and spaces can fill up during the busy summer months, so arriving early is a good idea.

A few things to know before visiting:

• How long to spend: Allow around 1–2 hours to walk through the gorge, plus extra time for the walk from the parking lot.
• Want a longer hike? You can continue to Kaiserschmarrn-Alm, a mountain restaurant where you can stop for traditional Bavarian food.
• What to wear: The paths can be wet and slippery, and the gorge stays damp even when the weather is nice. Wear shoes with good traction and bring a light rain jacket.
• Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the entrance or check online ticket options here.

The paths are narrow in some places, so expect to slow down and let other visitors pass. We were making the hike back around 10:30 – 11:00 and it was already very crowded. I’d also recommend checking current opening hours and access information before visiting, especially after heavy rain.

Take in the Views from AlpspiX

For incredible mountain views, consider taking the Alpspitzbahn cable car up to the AlpspiX observation deck. Located near the top of Mount Alpspitze, this unique viewing platform features two steel walkways that extend out over the mountainside in an X shape.

From the platform, you can look out over the surrounding Bavarian Alps and the Höllental valley. If you want to experience the mountains without committing to a long hike, this is a great option to consider on a clear day.

The cable car takes around 9 minutes to reach the mountain station. Once you’re there, you can visit the observation deck, enjoy the views, or explore some of the nearby hiking trails. There’s also Osterfelder 2000, a mountain restaurant where you can stop for a meal or drink while enjoying the alpine scenery.

To get there, head to the Alpspitzbahn valley station, where parking is available. If you’re purchasing the three-day ZugspitzCard, check the current inclusions to see whether the Alpspitzbahn and Hochalmbahn are covered.

A few things to know before visiting:

• Best time to visit: Choose a clear day for the best mountain views. Clouds can limit visibility at the summit.
• How long to spend: Allow a couple of hours to take the cable car, visit the observation deck, and enjoy the scenery. Allow extra time if you plan to hike.
• Opening hours: Operating times vary by season and weather, so check the current cable car schedule before you go.
• What to wear: Bring a jacket, even in summer, as temperatures can be cooler at the mountain station.

If you’re deciding between mountain excursions, Alpspitze is another option to consider alongside Zugspitze. Both offer spectacular alpine scenery, but checking the weather and visibility before choosing a mountain can help you make the most of your visit.

Explore the Historic Town Center

One of the best things to do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is simply wander around the town center. I loved walking through town at night, browsing the shops, and taking in the charming streets. The traditional Bavarian buildings, local shops, and cafes are beautiful, especially with the mountains in the background.

Definitely set aside some time to browse the shops, stop at a cafe or bakery, and admire the architecture. I recommend stopping at Bäcker Aurhammer to try one of their delicious cinnamon rolls!

You don’t need a detailed plan to enjoy Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s town center. Just give yourself time to wander, explore the side streets, and enjoy the mountain views along the way.

Take a Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle is just over an hour’s drive from Garmisch-Partenkirchen, making it a great day trip if you have extra time in the area. This famous fairytale castle sits in the Bavarian Alps and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Germany.

One of the best places to view the castle is Mary’s Bridge (Marienbrücke), which offers beautiful views of Neuschwanstein perched on the mountainside. You can reach the bridge by hiking uphill or taking the shuttle bus when it’s operating. It can get crowded, but the views are worth it!

We also visited Hohenschwangau Castle, which we chose to tour instead of Neuschwanstein. The interior of Hohenschwangau was interesting to explore because the castle was furnished and once served as a home for the royal family. You can also walk around the grounds if you don’t want to book a tour.

If you want to visit the inside of Neuschwanstein Castle, be sure to book your tickets in advance. I’d also recommend arriving early to give yourself plenty of time to see the castle, visit Mary’s Bridge, and explore the surrounding area.

Try Traditional Bavarian Food

While visiting Garmisch-Partenkirchen, take some time to try traditional Bavarian food. You’ll find plenty of restaurants serving hearty German dishes, from schnitzel and bratwurst to pretzels and spaetzle, a type of German egg noodle.

I recommend Gasthaus zur Schranne, where the schnitzel and cheesy spätzle were both delicious! The restaurant can get pretty busy, so I recommend making a reservation ahead of time.

If you’re looking for something sweet, try Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy shredded pancake traditionally served with powdered sugar and fruit compote. It’s a popular dish in Bavaria and the surrounding Alpine region.

Things to Do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen FAQ

When is the Best Time to Visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

The best time to visit Garmisch-Partenkirchen depends on what you want to do. Summer is ideal for hiking, exploring mountain lakes, and enjoying the area’s outdoor attractions. July and August are popular months to visit, so expect larger crowds at some of the main sights.

We visited in early September and thought it was a great time to explore. There were still plenty of people around, but it never felt overwhelmingly crowded. The weather was pleasant for exploring, and we could enjoy the mountain scenery without feeling surrounded by crowds.

Winter is another popular time to visit, especially if you enjoy skiing and other snow activities. Just keep in mind that some hiking trails and outdoor attractions may have limited access depending on the weather and season. Always check opening hours and conditions before visiting.

How many days do you need in Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

We spent three days in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and I felt like it was the perfect amount of time. It gave us enough time to visit Partnach Gorge, take the cable car up to Zugspitze, explore the town center, and take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle without feeling rushed. If you’re planning a trip, I’d recommend spending at least three days here, especially if you want to fit in a few different activities and enjoy the area at a relaxed pace.

Where to Stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

I recommend staying close to the town center so you can easily walk to restaurants and shops during your stay. I personally stayed at Ferienwohnung Haus Bader and absolutely loved this rental! It was in a great location, within walking distance of plenty of restaurants and shops. The apartment has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a kitchen if you prefer to cook some of your own meals.

My favorite part, though, was the large balcony with incredible mountain views. I spent every evening sitting out here after a day of exploring, and it was the perfect way to wind down. If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay with plenty of space and beautiful views, I’d definitely recommend checking this one out!

Hotel Garni Brunnthaler is another great option if you’re looking for a cozy hotel within walking distance of Garmisch-Partenkirchen’s town center. It offers comfortable rooms and mountain views, making it a good choice for a relaxing stay.

Hotel Zugspitze is a great choice if you’re looking for something a little more upscale. This hotel features a spa and indoor pool, along with an on-site restaurant, so you can relax after a day of hiking and exploring the Bavarian Alps. Breakfast is also included, which is always a nice bonus.

How to Get Around Garmisch-Partenkirchen?

Getting around Garmisch-Partenkirchen is fairly easy. If you’re staying in town, you can walk to many restaurants, shops, and attractions. I recommend leaving your car at your accommodation whenever possible. Parking can be limited in busy areas, especially during peak travel seasons.

We rented a car for our trip, which made it easier to explore places outside town and visit the surrounding mountains. However, you don’t necessarily need a car to enjoy Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Local buses connect different parts of town, and trains are another option for reaching nearby destinations. Just check the schedules ahead of time to make sure they work with your itinerary.

Final Thoughts on things to do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen ended up being one of my favorite stops on our trip to Bavaria. Between the beautiful mountain views, scenic hikes, charming town center, and unique attractions like Partnach Gorge and Zugspitze, there is so much to see and do here. I especially loved that we could spend our days exploring the mountains and our evenings wandering around town.

If you’re planning a trip to Bavaria, I definitely recommend adding Garmisch-Partenkirchen to your itinerary. We spent three days here, and it was the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights without feeling rushed. If you’re also planning to visit the city, check out my Munich itinerary for ideas on how to spend your time there. Whether you want to hike, take in the alpine scenery, or simply enjoy a charming Bavarian town, there’s something here for everyone.