Nestled at the heart of the Bavarian Alps, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. This idyllic mountain resort town, famous for its picturesque landscapes and traditional Alpine architecture, offers a unique blend of cultural and outdoor activities.

Whether you're aiming to conquer the Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak, or immerse yourself in the rich history and cuisine of the region, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a destination filled with enchanting experiences. In this guide, we will uncover the top eight things to do in this charming town that capture the essence of a true Bavarian getaway.

Visit the Zugspitze

The Zugspitze mountain is one of Garmisch-Partenkirchen's top attractions, and for a good reason. Not only is it the highest peak in Germany, but it also offers breathtaking views and a variety of hiking trails for all levels.

You can take a cable car or hike to the summit, where you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Bavarian Alps. During the winter, it offers some stellar skiing.

Explore the Partnach Gorge

Nature lovers should not miss out on visiting the Partnach Gorge, a stunning natural wonder located just outside of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The gorge is a narrow, rocky canyon with rushing waterfalls and turquoise pools, making it a perfect spot for photography and hiking. You can also visit during winter to see the frozen waterfalls.

Ski in the Garmisch Classic

For those looking for a skiing adventure, Garmisch-Partenkirchen has you covered. The Garmisch Classic ski area offers over 40km of slopes with stunning views of the mountains and valleys. It caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. A great place to take a break and enjoy a Bombardino is the Hexenkesselschneebar.

Wander Around the Old Town

Take a stroll through the charming streets of Garmisch-Partenkirchen's old town and admire the well-preserved traditional Bavarian architecture. You'll find plenty of quaint shops, restaurants, and cafes to stop in along the way. Don't forget to try some local delicacies like pretzels, weisswurst, and spätzle.

Hike Kofel Spitze in Nearby Oberammergau

For a more challenging and scenic hike, head to the nearby town of Oberammergau and climb Kofel Spitze. This 5.5-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Take a Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

No visit to Bavaria is complete without seeing Neuschwanstein Castle, the real-life inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle. This magnificent fairytale castle is just a short drive from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Be sure to book your tickets in advance as it is a popular tourist destination.

Visit the Olympic Ski Stadium

Garmisch-Partenkirchen hosted the Winter Olympics in 1936, and its ski stadium is still used for major skiing events today. Take a tour of the stadium and relive its Olympic history, or catch a live event during your visit.

Relax at Lake Eibsee

On a sunny day, head to Lake Eibsee for relaxation and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Take a dip in the crystal-clear water, rent a boat, or simply enjoy a picnic on its shores.

This picturesque lake is just a short drive or train ride from Garmisch-Partenkirchen at the foot of the Zugspitze cable car.