Alpspitzbahn Cable Car - man standing outside train during day
1 / 10

Alpspitzbahn Cable Car

4.6
·2k reviews·Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

Ascend to breathtaking alpine vistas via the Alpspitzbahn cable car, culminating in the thrilling Alpspix viewing platform.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Alpspitzbahn Cable Car - man standing outside train during day

Alpspitzbahn Cable Car

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend to breathtaking alpine vistas via the Alpspitzbahn cable car, culminating in the thrilling Alpspix viewing platform.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"The views were spectacular. An amazing experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

While not always mandatory, booking ahead can save time, especially during busy periods.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Essential for exploring the hiking trails at the top.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Alpspix Viewing Platform

Alpspix Viewing Platform

Top of the Alpspitzbahn

A thrilling cantilevered platform offering panoramic views of the Alps. Not for the faint of heart!

Scenic Cable Car Ride

Scenic Cable Car Ride

Ascending to Alpspitze

Breathtaking views unfold as you ascend, showcasing the dramatic alpine landscape.

Instagram
Osterfelderkopf Hiking Trails

Osterfelderkopf Hiking Trails

Top of the Alpspitzbahn

Explore well-maintained trails with spectacular vistas towards Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the valley.

Instagram
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by heading up early, especially during peak season. The Alpspitzbahn can get busy, but arriving before 10 AM often means shorter lines and a more serene experience. Check the last descent time, as it can be earlier than expected, even in summer. Reddit

Navigating to the Base

Finding the correct parking lot for the Alpspitzbahn can be a bit tricky. While there's a large free parking lot, some visitors mention having to walk a bit to the station. Consider public transport if you're staying nearby for a potentially easier arrival. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Longer daylight for descent
Crowd
Medium
When
Monday mornings
Why
Quieter than weekends
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Schafler Ridge - Switzerland 🇨🇭 This is what I did: First cable car up at 7.30am from Wasserauen to Ebenalp 24CHF one way or half that with travel card Hike 45 - 60 mins to Schafler hut all up hill! (Get a drink and relax) Hike across the ridge, rails to hold on, big drops but a good path (if you don’t like heights I wouldn’t try it) Aim for the Mesmer hut was 4km ish and will take around ...
@samrculley
36.3K likes • 406.8K views

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

While not always mandatory, booking ahead can save time, especially during busy periods. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Essential for exploring the hiking trails at the top. Reddit

⭐️FRONT ROW TIPS ⭐️ when riding the Gelmerbahn! 1. Book tickets in advance and GET THERE EARLY! First ride up is usually at 9am. I got there at 830am to get my physical ticket and I was first in line. 2. It is not operational all year round. They close during winter so check their website for updates. 3. It’s a first come first serve basis, so if you are first in line, you can choose where you ...
@_paradiseseeker_
20.2K likes • 546.7K views
2nd Cable Car ride in Garmisch-Alpspitzbahn! 🚠 This cable car leaves from the same parking lot area as the Kreuzeck cable car. But this ride is more breathtaking and harrowing! 🏔 At the top you’ll find hiking trails, a restaurant, and the Alpspix viewing platform. This isn’t for the faint of heart! You can look down and see just how high over the rocky cliffs you are. (If you are afraid of heigh...
abroadwife
85 likes • 2K views

📸 Capture the Views

The cable car ride and summit offer incredible photo opportunities. Instagram

💰 Consider a Travel Card

If you plan on using multiple cable cars, a travel card might offer savings. TikTok

Osterfelderkopf is located in the Wetterstein mountain range, in the vicinity of Zugspitze! The easiest and the fastest way to reach there is via the Alpspitzbahn, the Alpspitz cable car. It costs 33.5 € for a return journey! #osterfelderkopf #alpspitzbahn #alpspixplattform
etcblogging
16 likes • 434 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

While not always mandatory, booking ahead can save time, especially during busy periods. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Essential for exploring the hiking trails at the top. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The cable car ride and summit offer incredible photo opportunities. Instagram

💰 Consider a Travel Card

If you plan on using multiple cable cars, a travel card might offer savings. TikTok

⏰ Mind the Last Descent

Check the schedule; the last cable car down can be earlier than expected. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular views from the Alpspitzbahn and the Alpspix viewing platform, often calling it a breathtaking experience. The cable car ride itself is a highlight, offering stunning alpine panoramas. While some find the ticket prices a bit steep, most agree the experience is well worth the cost, especially with good weather.

"We couldn't have picked a better day than this to ride the gondola up to view Alpspitz. The correct parking lot was a little tricky to find, and we had to walk a way to the station. But once there, the lines were short and we were able to purchase tickets and hop on a gondola within 20 minutes. The views were spectacular. There are many trail options once at the top. We decided just to relax on the patio and take in the view with lunch, which was delicious. An amazing experience."

Tammy Schur

"Nice ride to Alpspitze 😁 summer 2025 the price was okay with 39 euros for a return. Nice restaurants at the top and very good hiking possibility at the top, with spectacular view towards Garmish P. And the Valley..."

Buffast

"Beautiful and cheaper experience compared to the zugspitzebahn. We arrived at about 10 am on a monday in holiday season but we had the to ourselves it seemed. Nice place for hiking and enjoying the natural alpine environment."

Ivo van Hoek

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Thrilling Alpspix platform
Scenic cable car ride

What People Dislike

Ticket prices can be high
Last descent time early

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Alpspitzbahn station is located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. You can reach it by car, with a large free parking lot available, though some visitors note a short walk to the station. Reddit Alternatively, you can take a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and then local transport or a taxi to the cable car base. Reddit

Yes, there is a huge free parking lot near the Alpspitzbahn base station. Reddit However, be prepared for a short walk from the parking area to the actual ticket office and boarding point. Reddit

Yes, public transport is a viable option. You can take a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen and then use local buses or taxis to get to the Alpspitzbahn. This can sometimes be more convenient than driving and parking. Reddit

The Alpspitzbahn takes you to the Alpspitze mountain and the Alpspix viewing platform, offering stunning views of the surrounding Alps. The Zugspitzbahn is a cogwheel train that goes to Germany's highest peak, the Zugspitze, offering a different, higher-altitude experience. Reddit

The cable car itself is generally accessible. However, the terrain at the top can be challenging for those with mobility issues, though paved paths and viewing platforms are available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A return ticket for the Alpspitzbahn typically costs around 33.50 € to 39 €, depending on the season and any special offers. InstagramReddit It's considered a bit expensive by some, but many find it worth the experience. Reddit

While online booking might be available, it's often recommended to purchase physical tickets at the station, especially if you plan to arrive early. TikTok This also allows you to confirm operational status. TikTok

Discounts may be available with certain travel cards or passes. It's worth checking for any local tourist cards or rail passes that might include reduced fares. TikTok

Operating hours vary by season. It's crucial to check the official website for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding the last descent time, which can be as early as 5:30 PM in summer. Reddit

Arriving early in the morning, especially on weekdays or outside of peak holiday seasons, can significantly reduce wait times. Reddit+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

At the top, you can visit the thrilling Alpspix viewing platform, enjoy spectacular panoramic views, and explore various hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are restaurants at the top offering food and drinks with incredible alpine views. Reddit Many visitors enjoy having lunch or a drink on the patio. Reddit

The Alpspix is a unique, cantilevered viewing platform that extends out over the rocky cliffs, offering a dramatic and exhilarating perspective of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Instagram

There are various hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes. The Schafler Ridge, for example, involves rails and significant drops, so it's not for those with a fear of heights. TikTok

You can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Wetterstein mountain range, including the Zugspitze, the valley below, and the surrounding alpine landscape. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

The cable car ride itself offers stunning aerial shots. At the top, the Alpspix viewing platform provides dramatic perspectives, and various hiking trails offer incredible mountain vistas. Instagram

Absolutely! The ascent and descent provide constantly changing, spectacular views of the Alps and the valley, making for fantastic photographic opportunities. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. However, any time of day offers impressive scenery. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and around cable car facilities for safety and environmental reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating mountain peaks. Don't forget extra batteries, as the cold can drain them faster. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Alpspitzbahn offers a memorable experience for families. The cable car ride itself is exciting for children, providing stunning views without strenuous effort. At the top, the Alpspix viewing platform can be a thrilling, albeit slightly intimidating, experience for older kids. Instagram

There are also easier walking paths suitable for families with younger children, allowing them to enjoy the alpine scenery. Pack snacks and drinks, and be mindful of the weather, which can change quickly in the mountains. The restaurants at the top offer a convenient place to refuel. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Alpspitzbahn ticket price is noted as being on the higher side by some, it's often considered a more affordable alternative to the Zugspitzbahn. Reddit To make it more budget-friendly, consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid peak pricing or crowds. Reddit

Bringing your own snacks and water can also help save money on food and drinks at the summit. If you're staying in the region for a while, look into any local tourist cards or passes that might offer discounts on cable car rides. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Alpspitzbahn is a photographer's dream. The scenic cable car ride offers incredible opportunities for aerial shots and capturing the vastness of the Alps. Instagram At the summit, the Alpspix viewing platform provides dramatic angles and perspectives that are hard to replicate. Instagram

Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Wide-angle lenses are highly recommended to capture the expansive landscapes. Don't forget to check the weather forecast, as dramatic cloud formations can add to the photographic appeal. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Alpspix

The Alpspix viewing platform is a standout feature of the Alpspitzbahn experience. This unique structure juts out from the mountainside, offering visitors a heart-pounding perspective of the sheer drop below and the vast alpine panorama. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking an adrenaline rush and unparalleled photo opportunities. Instagram

Visitors often describe the feeling of standing on the Alpspix as both exhilarating and awe-inspiring. The platform is designed to be safe, with sturdy railings and a solid construction, but the visual sensation of being suspended over the valley is intense. It's a place where you can truly feel the immensity of the Alps. Reddit

Remember that this attraction is not for those with a severe fear of heights. However, for most visitors, it's an unforgettable highlight that provides a unique way to connect with the dramatic mountain landscape. Instagram

Navigating the Ascent: The Alpspitzbahn Experience

The Alpspitzbahn cable car itself is more than just transport; it's an integral part of the scenic journey. As the gondola ascends, the landscape transforms, revealing breathtaking views of the Wetterstein mountain range, the valley floor, and the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The ride is smooth and efficient, with cabins designed to hold a good number of passengers. Instagram

Many travelers highlight the visual spectacle of the ride. The sheer scale of the mountains becomes apparent, and the changing perspectives offer continuous opportunities for stunning photography. Some videos even showcase the more 'harrowing' aspects of the ride, emphasizing the steep inclines and dramatic elevation changes. Instagram

While the ride is generally pleasant, it's worth noting that during peak times, queues can form. Arriving early is key to enjoying a more relaxed ascent and maximizing your time at the summit. The frequency of the cable cars, with one departing every 10 minutes, helps manage passenger flow. Reddit

Exploring the Trails Around Alpspitze

Once you reach the summit via the Alpspitzbahn, a network of hiking trails awaits, catering to various fitness levels and interests. These trails offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural alpine environment and discover hidden viewpoints. Reddit

Popular routes include paths leading to the Osterfelderkopf, which provide spectacular vistas towards the Zugspitze. For the more adventurous, trails like the one mentioned towards the Schafler hut involve steeper climbs and can be more demanding, sometimes requiring the use of safety rails. TikTok Always check trail conditions and your own capabilities before setting out.

These trails are not just about the physical challenge; they are about experiencing the raw beauty of the Alps. You'll encounter alpine meadows, dramatic rock formations, and, of course, those unforgettable panoramic views that make the journey so worthwhile. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2