Things to Do in Oberammergau, Germany
Through a series of random events and fate, I've found myself in Oberammergau, Germany, more than a handful of times. Between visiting on my first trip to Germany and my significant other taking a class at the NATO post, I've spent my fair share of time in this historic city.
From its famous passion play to its charming Bavarian architecture, there's plenty to do and see in Oberammergau. Here are a few recommendations for things to do while you're there.
Visit the Passion Play Theatre
One of the main draws of Oberammergau is its world-renowned passion play, which has been performed every ten years since 1634. The five-hour-long performance tells the story of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ and involves over 2,000 actors, singers, and musicians.
While the next performance isn't until 2030 (the play only occurs during years ending in zero with the exception of the 2020 production delayed by the pandemic. Which is ironic as the play started because of a plague), visitors can still tour the impressive theater and learn about the history and tradition behind the play.
Explore the Historic Lüftlmalerei
Oberammergau is known for its stunning Bavarian architecture, with many buildings adorned in intricate frescoes and traditional paintings known as Lüftlmalerei. Take a stroll through the streets of Oberammergau and admire these beautiful works of art, which often depict religious scenes or local legends. Don't miss the famous Pilatushaus, an iconic building covered in colorful frescoes.
Hike to Kofel Mountain
For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike to Kofel Mountain is a must-do while in Oberammergau. The mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Alps. The hike is considered moderate in difficulty, but the reward at the top is well worth it. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes and plenty of water for this adventure!
Visit Ettal Abbey
Just a short drive from Oberammergau is Ettal Abbey, a beautiful Benedictine monastery founded in 1330. Visitors can tour the impressive church, which features Baroque architecture and ornate decorations. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the famous Ettal beer produced by the monks themselves.
Shop for Traditional Bavarian Souvenirs
No visit to Germany would be complete without picking up some traditional Bavarian souvenirs. In Oberammergau, you'll find many charming shops selling handcrafted items such as wood carvings, beer steins, and traditional clothing like lederhosen and dirndls. Don't forget to also try some of the local delicacies such as Bavarian pretzels and sausages. My favorites are the two Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas stores.
Visit Nearby Garmisch-Partenkirchen
If you have extra time during your stay in Oberammergau, consider taking a day trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen. This neighboring town is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak. You can take a cable car ride up to the summit for breathtaking views.
If you're a skier, you'll definitely want to consider adding either the Garmisch Classic or Zuspitze to your itinerary. The town is known for its excellent skiing opportunities and hosts a ski jump on New Years Day.
In addition to outdoor activities, Garmisch-Partenkirchen also has a charming historic center with traditional Bavarian architecture and plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. It's a great place to experience even more of the local culture and cuisine.
Take a Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle
No visit to Bavaria would be complete without a trip to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. King Ludwig II built this fairytale-like castle in the 19th century and has inspired many of Disney's iconic princess castles.
Located just 45-minutes from Oberammergau, Neuschwanstein is easily accessible for a day trip. You can take a guided tour of the castle, explore the surrounding grounds, and even hike up to the nearby Marienbrücke bridge for stunning views of the castle.
