Berchtesgaden Old Town
A picturesque Bavarian town with stunning painted facades, serving as a gateway to the majestic Alps and historic sites.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Berchtesgaden Old Town
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque Bavarian town with stunning painted facades, serving as a gateway to the majestic Alps and historic sites.
"This is a charming little public market and gathering area in the quaint village town of Berchtesgaden."
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes! The charming cobblestone streets can be uneven and hilly. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Pointers
Parking in the center is tough. Arrive early or use designated lots outside the immediate old town. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Marktplatz Charm
Town Center
Historic buildings, vibrant murals, and a lively market fountain create a picturesque gathering spot.
Painted Facades
Throughout the Old Town
Admire the beautifully decorated buildings with intricate frescoes and traditional Bavarian architecture.
Salt Mine Adventure
Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden
Descend into a historic salt mine for an underground journey and unique insights into mining history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm, Prepare for Crowds
Beyond the Old Town: Alpine Adventures Await
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes! The charming cobblestone streets can be uneven and hilly. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Pointers
Parking in the center is tough. Arrive early or use designated lots outside the immediate old town. :car:
📸 Mural Magic
Take time to explore side streets for hidden painted facades and photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
⛰️ Base for Adventure
Use the old town as a launchpad for exploring Königssee, Eagle's Nest, and hiking trails. :mountain_snow:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes! The charming cobblestone streets can be uneven and hilly. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Pointers
Parking in the center is tough. Arrive early or use designated lots outside the immediate old town. :car:
📸 Mural Magic
Take time to explore side streets for hidden painted facades and photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
⛰️ Base for Adventure
Use the old town as a launchpad for exploring Königssee, Eagle's Nest, and hiking trails. :mountain_snow:
🕰️ Early Bird Gets It
Visit popular spots like the salt mine early to avoid the longest queues. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Berchtesgaden Old Town charming with its gorgeous buildings and murals, though it can be a bit touristy and parking is difficult. The hilly, cobblestone streets add to its character, and it serves as a convenient base for exploring the nearby Eagle's Nest and national park.
"A bit overpriced & touristy, but to be expected I suppose. Gorgeous buildings & murals. It is very hard to park in the centre, especially with larger vehicles & quite hilly. Uneven paving due to the cobbles, but that's part of the charm to a lot of the towns here.
We were too early in the year for a trip to the eagles nest though, so it looks like we'll revisit"
Angie Hislop
"Quiet old town near Eagle’s nest. Easy walk around"
Greenie YY
"This is a charming little public market and gathering area in the quaint village town of Berchtesgaden. I really enjoyed seeing the historic buildings, restaurants, small retail shops and old market fountain at Marktplatz. Lots of good pictures you can take here."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Berchtesgaden Old Town is accessible by car, with parking available in designated lots, though it can be challenging in the center.
Public transport options include buses from nearby towns and cities. The nearest major airport is Munich (MUC), from which you can take a train or rent a car.Yes, the old town itself is very walkable, but be prepared for hills and cobblestone streets, which can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must.
For exploring the old town, walking is ideal. For excursions to surrounding attractions like Königssee or the Eagle's Nest, local buses and the Panorama Tours service are popular options.
Yes, Panorama Tours offers direct trips from Salzburg to Berchtesgaden, including visits to the salt mine.
Driving directly into the very center can be difficult due to narrow streets and limited parking. It's often recommended to park in designated areas and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the old town itself is free. However, attractions within or near the old town, such as the salt mine or the Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest), require separate tickets.
The Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden typically operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
Ticket prices for the salt mine vary, but expect to pay around €15-€20 for adults. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
No, the Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) is typically only open from mid-May to October due to weather conditions.
Yes, for popular attractions like the salt mine and bus tours to the Eagle's Nest, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid queues.
📸 📸 Photography & Sights
The Marktplatz with its fountain and painted buildings is a prime spot. Wander the streets to capture the frescoes on various facades. The Spiegelsee near the salt mine also offers unique reflections.
The elaborate frescoes on the buildings are a traditional form of Bavarian folk art, often depicting religious scenes, historical events, or local motifs, adding to the town's historic charm.
Yes, the Wimbachklamm (gorge) is a relatively easy walk, though the path to Wimbachschloss is a bit longer. For more challenging hikes with stunning views, consider the Archenkanzel hike.
The Kehlsteinhaus, often called the Eagle's Nest, is a historic mountaintop building offering panoramic views of the Alps. It was a former Nazi-era retreat.
Königssee is a stunning emerald-green lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs, famous for its electric boat tours, the echo wall, and the St. Bartholomä church.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find traditional Bavarian cuisine, including hearty dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Schnitzel, and local sausages, often served in cozy Gasthöfe (inns).
While traditional Bavarian food is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian options, such as Käsespätzle (cheese noodles) or vegetable dishes. Vegan options might be more limited but are becoming more common.
Look for traditional Gasthöfe in the Marktplatz area for an authentic experience. Many small cafes and bakeries also offer local pastries and coffee.
Dining can be a bit pricey, especially in tourist-heavy areas, but you can find good value by opting for local inns away from the main square or enjoying a simple Brotzeit (bread and cheese platter).
Yes, there are several charming cafes in and around the old town where you can enjoy coffee and cake, perfect for a mid-day break.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the old town, the Königssee boat trip is a gentle way to experience the stunning scenery, and the Wimbachklamm gorge offers an accessible nature walk. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, and consider the seasonal opening of attractions like the Eagle's Nest.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Opt for public transport over private tours where possible, and look for free or low-cost hiking trails in the surrounding national park. Many of the most stunning natural sights, like the views from certain vantage points, don't require an entrance fee.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
For a truly memorable experience, take a boat trip on the serene Königssee or visit the Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest) for breathtaking panoramic views, especially at sunset. The surrounding natural beauty provides ample opportunities for romantic hikes and quiet moments amidst nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Painted Facades
Take your time to wander through the narrow lanes and discover these artistic gems. While the Marktplatz is a focal point, many stunning examples can be found on less obvious streets. The vibrant colors and detailed artwork are a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and a photographer's delight.
The Berchtesgaden Salt Mine (Salzbergwerk)
The tour is both educational and entertaining, with guides sharing stories and historical facts. The highlight for many is the boat ride across a subterranean salt lake, reflecting the mine's illuminated tunnels. It's a cool escape from the summer heat and a unique adventure that provides a different perspective on Berchtesgaden.
Gateway to the Bavarian Alps
From here, you can easily access the stunning Königssee lake for boat trips, hike to the dramatic Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest) for panoramic views, or explore scenic trails like the Wimbachklamm gorge. The diverse landscape offers opportunities for everything from gentle strolls to challenging alpine climbs, making Berchtesgaden a true paradise for nature lovers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit