Karwendelbahn Mittenwald
Ascend the Karwendelbahn for unparalleled alpine vistas and the exhilarating Mittenwalder Höhenweg via ferrata.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better views
Karwendelbahn Mittenwald
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend the Karwendelbahn for unparalleled alpine vistas and the exhilarating Mittenwalder Höhenweg via ferrata.
"It was simply amazing. I think it was even better than the one in Innsbruck."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your Karwendelbahn tickets in advance online.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable hiking boots are a must for the trails, even if you're not doing the via ferrata.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Karwendelbahn Cable Car Ride
Base station to Karwendel summit
Ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of the Karwendel Alps and Mittenwald.
Mittenwalder Höhenweg
From Karwendelbahn summit station
An exhilarating via ferrata along the ridge with secured cables and ladders.
Karwendel Nature Reserve
Surrounding the summit station
Explore alpine trails with stunning natural beauty and diverse flora.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Karwendelbahn Ascent
What to Pack for the Karwendel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your Karwendelbahn tickets in advance online.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable hiking boots are a must for the trails, even if you're not doing the via ferrata.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong at higher altitudes; bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
💰 Ticket Deposit
A €5 deposit is required per ticket, refundable upon return.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Save time by purchasing your Karwendelbahn tickets in advance online.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable hiking boots are a must for the trails, even if you're not doing the via ferrata.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun is strong at higher altitudes; bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
💰 Ticket Deposit
A €5 deposit is required per ticket, refundable upon return.
🍽️ Summit Restaurant
Enjoy local food with incredible views at the restaurant atop the Karwendelbahn.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Karwendelbahn for its absolutely amazing views and the thrilling Mittenwalder Höhenweg via ferrata. The accessibility and family-friendly nature of the panoramic trails are also highlighted. However, some find the ticket prices to be rather expensive, and a few reviewers noted less-than-friendly staff.
"I will be honest. This cable car was not in the plans (I did not even know about it) and I had low expectations.
It was simply amazing. I think it was even better than the one in Innsbruck. I can describe below.
Accessibility: parking for cars and shop in the boarding area.
Staff: very cool people. They are not there to serve people (as some users might think), they are working. I had a great tour up and down, and I am not a german speaker (only english) but still they were the best references when we had questions.
View: amazing view. You can clearly see Mittenwald and other high peaks. Also the boarder Germany/ Austria is there at the top.
Restaurant at the top: you have to try the restaurant with that great view. I do not drink, but the brewery has a good reputation and it’s special to have a brewery so high in the top. The goulash soup with Pretzel was the best 🤩
When I visited: Summer 2025"
Edivaldo Junior
"It is rather expensive however the views/experience are worth it.
Note you pay a €5 deposit / per ticket which you get back at the end if you return your ticket. It could be better organised if there was a designated queue for ticket PURCHASES and, separately, a queue for ticket RETURNS.
We came at 8.30am and had to wait ~30 mins before boarding the cable car (this included time to purchase the ticket and to wait for the next cable car)"
Joie Lou
"Card is accepted. But the drivers were not friendly, grumpy! Resturant on the top was nice in terms of beautiful mountain view and food. But food option was limited for obvious reasons:)"
Anindya Banerjee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take a direct train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Mittenwald Bahnhof, which takes about 2 hours. The Karwendelbahn cable car station is a short 5-7 minute walk from the train station.
Yes, there is parking available for cars at the boarding area of the Karwendelbahn.
Yes, the Bayern Ticket is valid for the train journey to Mittenwald.
Mittenwald is well-connected by train, making it easily accessible for day trips from Munich and other Bavarian cities.
From Mittenwald, you can walk or take a bus to the Leutaschklamm gorge, which takes about 20 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Karwendelbahn can be considered expensive, with adult round-trip tickets costing around 40 euros. However, many visitors find the experience and views to be worth the price.
Yes, it is recommended to buy your Karwendelbahn tickets online in advance to save time.
While not explicitly mentioned, inquire about potential discounts for families or groups when purchasing tickets.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Karwendelbahn website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, a €5 deposit is required per ticket, which is refunded when you return your ticket.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Mittenwalder Höhenweg, also known as the Mittenwald via ferrata, is an unchallenging high-altitude trail with secured cables and ladder passages. It offers stunning views and is considered a 'pleasure tour' in good conditions. 
The via ferrata has a maximum difficulty of B, making it suitable for beginners with some experience or those who are not afraid of heights.
Yes, there are amazing hiking trails at the top, offering beautiful alpine scenery and opportunities to explore the Karwendel Nature Reserve.
The view from the top is amazing, with clear sights of Mittenwald, surrounding high peaks, and the Germany/Austria border.
While the Karwendelbahn offers expansive views of the Alps, it does not directly overlook the Leutaschklamm gorge. The gorge is a separate attraction accessible from Mittenwald.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant at the top with a great view, offering local food. The goulash soup with pretzel is a recommended dish.
Food options are limited due to the location, but you can find local dishes. The restaurant also has a brewery with a good reputation.
Yes, card payments are accepted at the summit restaurant.
While the food options are limited, the prices are generally considered reasonable given the unique location and stunning views.
Yes, the brewery at the top has a good reputation, and it's a special experience to enjoy a beer with such a high-altitude view.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cable car ride offers stunning photographic opportunities. At the top, the panoramic views of the Alps, Mittenwald, and the via ferrata itself are spectacular.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures.
Yes, the Mittenwalder Höhenweg offers dramatic and photogenic sections, but always prioritize safety and be mindful of other hikers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The cable car ride itself is an exciting adventure for kids, providing unique perspectives of the Alps. Consider packing snacks and drinks, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The summit restaurant offers a convenient place to refuel with a view. 💰 Budget Travelers
Once at the top, focus on enjoying the free hiking trails and the incredible views rather than solely on expensive dining options. Packing your own snacks can also help manage costs. 🧗 Adventure Seekers
+1 Ensure you have appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots and a head for heights. The Karwendel Nature Reserve also offers opportunities for more challenging hikes for experienced trekkers. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Mittenwalder Höhenweg
+2Reaching the start of the Höhenweg is made easy by the Karwendelbahn cable car, which transports you to the summit station. From there, the path begins, leading you along the dramatic ridgeline. It's important to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for sections with secured cables and ladders.
+1Many visitors describe the Höhenweg as one of their favorite tours in Germany, praising its unique combination of adventure and stunning alpine scenery. It's a fantastic way to experience the Karwendel mountains up close and personal.
+1Family-Friendly Adventures at Karwendelbahn
Beyond the easy trails, the cable car ride itself is an exciting experience for kids. The views from the gondola offer a unique perspective of the landscape, and the journey up is often a highlight for younger visitors.
For families looking for a mix of gentle exploration and memorable views, the Karwendelbahn offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the Alps together. The summit restaurant also provides a convenient spot for a family meal with a view.
Navigating the Karwendelbahn Experience
Once you arrive at the station, the cable car base station is a short, easy walk away. When it comes to tickets, purchasing them online in advance is highly recommended to avoid queues, especially during peak times. Be aware that a €5 deposit is required per ticket, which is refundable upon return.
At the summit, the Karwendel Nature Reserve offers various hiking trails. For those seeking a culinary experience, the restaurant at the top provides a unique dining opportunity with breathtaking mountain vistas.
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