Garmisch-Partenkirchen , located at the foot of Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze at an altitude of 707 meters above sea level, is the most popular alpine ski resort in Germany .

Magnificent mountain landscapes, clean air, excellent conditions for mountain and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and other winter pleasures in combination with a developed infrastructure make the Garmisch-Partenkirchen ski resort one of the best places for recreation among winter sports lovers.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is also the largest balneological and climatic resort, where tourists come to improve their health. Here, treatment is recommended for diseases of the cardiovascular system, respiratory organs, functional disorders of the nervous system, and other diseases.

Location and history of the resort.

In the middle of the incredible nature of Bavaria, there is a small village that borders the lands of Germany and the Austrian Tyrol.

A cozy resort village in the district of Bavaria appeared as a result of the merger of two settlements located on the Loise River. Garmisch and Partenkirchen are now a popular holiday destination, where people come to ski in winter and enjoy spa treatments and just breathe fresh air in summer.

Streets of Garmisch-Partenkirchen

The history of Garmisch-Partenkirchen is closely related to the Olympic Games. A sports competition of world importance was held here in 1936, immediately after the city was founded. If you calculate the age of the resort even earlier, you can clearly trace the connection with the Romans and Celts, who were later replaced by the Bavarians and Allemani. The unique nature contributed to the fact that in ancient times people settled here near the cleanest lakes, mountain rivers, near springs with mineral waters.

Square in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen was officially founded in 1935, when two villages merged into one settlement. And until today, the resort has not received the status of a city, since the number of local residents is only 25,000 people.

Distance to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Innsbruck – 61 km

Munich – 88 km

Oberstdorf – 127 km

How to get to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

By plane to Munich, then by train to the city, which follows to the central station. There are regional trains from the station to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

By long-distance bus from Munich Airport to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, journey time 1 hour. 55 min.

By car from Munich on the A95 autobahn, then turn onto the B2 road that leads to the resort.

Ski tracks and lifts

The Garmisch-Partenkirchen ski resort consists of two ski areas: Garmisch-Classic (707-2050 m) and Zugspitze (2000-2720 m).

Diagram of the slopes of Garmisch-Partenkirchen

The ski region Garmisch-Classic offers 19 ski slopes, mainly of easy and medium category, located in the ski areas of Hausberg, Kreuzeck, Alpspitze, Eckbauer and Wanck.

Hausberg and Vank are more suitable for beginner skiers and families with children. In Hausberg, next to the lift station, there is a children’s snow park Kinderland, where the little guests of the resort can take their first steps in skiing and have fun.

Experienced skiers have the opportunity to conquer one of the most famous slopes in Garmisch – the “Kandahar” track, located in Kreuzeck. It is on this 3.7 km track that one of the stages of the downhill World Cup is held.

“Kandahar”

The slopes of the Alpspitze are more suitable for intermediate level skiers. There are areas here for freeride.

The slopes of the Garmisch-Classic are served by a network of lifts, and the Zugspitzbahn is the easiest way to get to the top of the Zugspitz.

Zugspitze is the only glacial zone in the country where snow cover is guaranteed for 7 months.

The skiing area is a true paradise for snowboarders and freestylers. It offers 9 different pistes, 2 of which are considered difficult, as well as the Terrain Park Zugspitze snow park. The total length of the tracks is 20 km. At the top of the Zugspitze there are several restaurants where you can have a snack, relax and admire the wonderful views of the mountain peaks.

For lovers of cross-country skiing, Garmisch-Partenkirchen has 28 km of ski tracks for classic and skate style. Many restaurants and bars are located along the ski slopes.

Despite several steep tracks, Garmisch-Partenkirchen is not a resort for extremes, but rather for a pleasant family vacation.

In addition, anyone who wishes can purchase a “Top Snow Card”, which gives the opportunity to ski not only in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, but also in the neighboring German ski areas of Mittenwald and Grainau, as well as in 6 Austrian ski resorts in the Tyrolean Zugspitze Arena – Erwald region. , Lermos, Bibervir, Bichlbach, Berwang and Heiterwang.

Ski schools in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Numerous training schools for beginners are located in all resorts of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Experienced ski instructors give both group lessons and individual lessons. For example, a popular school for snowboarders is located in the Hausberg area. You will learn the basics of downhill skiing and snowboarding here in literally 4-5 days, and you will already be able to brag to your friends about your polished technique.

Depending on the region of residence in the resort, or the difficulty of the tracks you want to master, you will need to choose the most suitable schools.

Skating schools Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Most companies make traveling as easy as possible for tourists by providing the opportunity to book downhill skiing lessons online. It is indicated here that the price for training depends on the duration and season. For example, 3 hours of lessons with an instructor in a group of up to 4 people will cost 115 EUR, both for an adult and a child. Private lessons will cost more, around 130 EUR for 3 hours.

Ski equipment rental points in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

For the comfort of vacationers in each region, there is a mountain ski rental in Garmisch-Partenkirchen not far from the ski lifts. Also, with the help of a credit card, you can reserve the equipment you need for skiing even now.

Here, mountain skis and snowboards can be rented upon deposit of a passport or other documents. As for prices, a children’s ski set will cost 56 EUR for 6 days. An adult, depending on the quality, is normal at 99 EUR, but here is a slightly better option, such as TOP positions at 115 EUR.

In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the rental of snowboards in a complete set will cost 118 EUR, but if you only need a board, then prepare 86 EUR. Prices are based on a 6-day rental. For a day of snowboard use, you will need to pay 30 EUR per set.

Hotels in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers such a wide selection of accommodation options that tourists will easily find accommodation that suits their needs and budget.

The resort offers hotels, mini-hotels, typical Bavarian boarding houses, elegant apartments and rooms in private houses.

Lovers of the exotic can spend a romantic night in the ice hotel “Igloo-Dorf”. The ice hotel is located in the Zugspitze ski area and consists of 20 snow houses, there is also an ice bar, an ice dining room and two jacuzzis.

Exklusive Ferienwohnung Alpen Deluxe 5 star hotel

The Exklusive Ferienwohnung Alpen Deluxe apartment complex is located in the mountain resort town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Guests stay in 5-star deluxe apartments with balconies and free Wi-Fi.

Alpine-style apartments feature a fireplace, a flat-screen TV and an iPod docking station. The fully equipped kitchen includes a dishwasher and a microwave.

The nearest supermarket is 800 meters from Exklusive Ferienwohnung Alpen Deluxe. Several restaurants can be reached on foot in 10 minutes.

Guests can go hiking, skiing or cycling near the complex. The Hausberg ski lift is 300 meters away. Guests of the complex can also use the ski storage room.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen Train Station is a 10-minute walk away. Guests can use free private parking.

H + Hotel Alpina Garmisch-Partenkirchen 4 star hotel

Hotel H + Alpina Garmisch-Partenkirchen is located in the winter resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen , just 800 meters from the Olympia Stadium. It offers modern rooms, a heated indoor pool and a daily breakfast buffet.

The rooms at the Hotel H + Alpina Garmisch-Partenkirchen are decorated in bright colors. Amenities include satellite TV, as well as a balcony or terrace.

Hotel guests have access to a spa with a Finnish sauna, a Roman steam bath and an indoor pool. Massage and cosmetic procedures are also performed.

German cuisine and vintage wines can be ordered in the Kaminzimmer restaurant with a fireplace and country-style interior. In the summer months, meals are served on the terrace.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen Train Station is an 8-minute walk from the H + Hotel Alpina Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Atlas Grand Hotel 4 star hotel

This traditional hotel is located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It features a natural outdoor pool, a large sauna with a view of the Zugspitze mountain, and free Wi-Fi.

Guests of the upgraded Atlas Grand Hotel are offered accommodation in beautiful, individually decorated rooms with wooden furniture. Some rooms have a balcony with a view of the Bavarian Alps.

During their stay at the hotel, guests can use the sauna and swimming pool free of charge. At the disposal of the guests of the grand hotel is a Turkish steam bath and a terrace for sunbathing.

Atlas Hotel serves a hearty breakfast buffet with salmon and sparkling wine. The cafe serves coffee and cakes for lunch every day. In the small wine bar, guests can taste vintage wines and snacks.

The Atlas Grand Hotel is conveniently located in the center of Partenkirchen. Winter sports can be enjoyed in the surrounding area. The Atlas Hotel has a ski storage room and public underground parking.

Hotel Garni Brunnthaler 3 star hotel

This simple hotel is located in a quiet yet central area of ​​Garmisch-Partenkirchen . It is an ideal place for lovers of outdoor activities. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the complex.

After breakfast, guests can go hiking or skiing. Hiking and skiing trails start right at the hotel’s doorstep. Here you will appreciate the beauty of the Zugspitze mountain and the freshness of the alpine air.

The convenient location of the hotel in the Garmisch district provides guests with various opportunities for recreation. Those who wish can use a public transport pass and explore the surroundings by bus, the stop of which is not far from the hotel. The distance to the railway station is only 400 meters; from it you can reach different parts of the region.

After a busy day in the fresh air, before you go to your room, you are invited to relax in the hotel’s sauna.

Entertainment and sights of Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Lovers of winter recreation will find activities for every taste in Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Vacationers can enjoy sledding and ice skating in the Olympic Ice Palace, horseback riding, snowshoeing, guided Segway tours, and curling.

Spa resorts Garmisch-Partenkirchen

If there is time for a ride, it means that you need to find time to relax and improve your health.

If in winter you can go skiing, then in summer the city turns into a climatic and balneological resort, where tourists from all over the world come for treatment.

Almost every hotel in the city offers spa services in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. These are 4-star hotels, 5-star options, and even three-star accommodation. You can visit the Wittelsbacher Hof Swiss Quality Hotel, the Mercure Hotel Garmisch Partenkirchen, or the Dorint Sporthotel Garmisch Partenkirchen and the professionals in their field will help you relax.

Every spa center in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is known for its outdoor pools, saunas, and relaxing treatments. After visiting the specialists, you will feel a rush of energy and relieve the burden of fatigue from a busy and active day.

Lovers of water activities will be delighted by the Alpspitz-Wellenbad complex with pools for children and adults and water attractions. After swimming in the pools, tourists can relax in the sauna, steam bath or solarium.

Walking around the city and getting to know such local attractions as the New Church of St. Martin, the Romanesque Old Church, the Town Hall building, the Church of St. Anton on Mount Vank, the Museum of Local History, the Partnach and Höllental gorges will bring great pleasure.

At the very top of the Zugspitze there is an exhibition hall where you can learn about the history of the region and an observation deck with a wonderful panoramic view of the mountains.

Restaurants in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Excellent German cuisine with real Bavarian sausages and the best sparkling beer in the world is difficult to confuse with any other, it is so unique and original. The best restaurants in Garmisch-Partenkirchen offer national dishes for tourists from all over the world.

Schloderer Bierstuberl is leading among reviews of restaurants in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Here they advise you to try delicious schnitzel, duck breast and potato pancakes. But be careful, because there is no terminal in the establishment, so it is better to stock up on cash.

If you are interested in the best cafes in Garmisch-Partenkirchen , feel free to go to Chocolaterie Amelie. A real chocolate paradise threatens your waistline, but beckons with an endlessly divine taste and amazing smell. Those with a sweet tooth will definitely like it here!

Restaurants in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Those who cannot imagine their life without coffee will appreciate Qahwa Sense of Coffee. Prices are very reasonable at Cafe Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Here you can eat for 3-8 EUR.

The national restaurant Zum Wildschutz offers local dishes: there are many types of meat, of which venison is especially recommended, fresh fish – trout is insanely delicious, and amazing beer. How many reasons to visit one institution – it is impossible to miss.

Chocolaterie Amelie

Cafe in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Prices in restaurants are quite affordable. So, the average check per person in VAUN will be around 30 EUR. The cuisine here is not local, but the establishment is popular, so it is better to reserve tables in advance.

As for inexpensive restaurants in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, there are more than enough of them here. This is German, French, Italian, American and even Indian cuisine. A wide variety of offers for every taste at an affordable price.

Bars and clubs in the city also attract the attention of many visitors to the city, here everyone can find an institution to their taste. The Irish Pub, as the name of the bar suggests, will appeal to those who like a pub atmosphere, Glashaus GAP is famous for its friendly atmosphere, and Bieraterie will appeal to those who like to take a long time to choose the best beer. A very colorful establishment can be found on the street Am Kreuzeck, and it is called Hexenkesselschneebar. Located next to the ski resort, here in the open air you can enjoy not only a wonderful active vacation, but also delicious and hearty food and excellent drinks.

The Irish Pub

Hexenkesselschneebar

Excursion to cultural sights of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. What to visit – museums, temples, palaces

In Garmisch-Partenkirchen and its surroundings there is a huge number of historical, architectural and natural monuments. Local museums will introduce guests to the history and culture of the city, one of the most interesting for travelers will be the Werdenfelder Museum. A huge collection of historical artifacts is kept within its walls, some exhibits are more than 1500 years old. During the excursion, visitors will be told about the most important historical events that had a serious impact on the development of the region.

Werdenfelder Museum

An important religious landmark is the New Parish Church – a beautiful building in the Baroque style. He worked on the project of the church

av the famous architect Joseph Schmutser, the most valuable relic is preserved in the walls of the building – a Gothic fresco, which was applied during the construction years. Guests of the city should definitely visit the Olympic Ice Stadium, which reminds travelers of important sporting events and provides an opportunity to have a great time and have fun.

Next to the stadium is the villa of Richard Strauss, where the famous composer spent the last years of his life. The atmosphere of the mansion has remained unchanged for more than 50 years, personal documents and works of Strauss are stored in the house, and interesting tours are held for everyone. The Schachen Hunting Castle is located on the outskirts of the city – an interesting and original architectural monument. The beautiful castle, the facade of which is decorated with carved arches and masterly stained glass windows, is located on the territory of the hunting grounds of Ludwig II. The building has been perfectly preserved to this day and has practically not changed its appearance during its many centuries of history.

New Parish Church

Schachen Hunting Castle

As for natural attractions, the choice here is huge. Travelers will be interested in visiting the Partnachklamm gorge, which is located near the Partnach river. Over thousands of years, water carved out tunnels and galleries of incredible beauty, today absolutely everyone can walk through them and appreciate the scale and beauty of a unique natural attraction. An interesting adventure will be the ascent to Hausberg mountain, the top of which is connected to Garmisch by cable car. Several large observation decks are equipped on the mountain, from which you can admire the mountain landscape.

You can feel the whole color of the city by walking along Ludwigstraße. It seems as if reality has turned into a fairy tale, for which Bavaria is so famous. This feeling is facilitated by cozy houses with picturesque balconies located along the street, beautifully painted with frescoes, each of which is a work of architectural art. In addition, there are many restaurants and cafes along the street where you can get acquainted with Bavarian cuisine. Nearby are the Alps, the view of which is very interesting.

Partnachklamm

Ludwigstraße

Not far from the city, you can find the Konigshaus am Schachen, a hunting lodge built especially for Ludwig II – the same “fairytale king” who was friends with the Austro-Hungarian empress Elizabeth. The only nuance: you can visit the house only in the summer, in the rest of the time the route does not work (it takes 4 hours to get here, and only on foot). Near the house is the Alpine garden with beautiful representatives of the flora, as well as the picturesque Lake Shahen, whose views can be enjoyed forever – if only you have it in stock. Tours are organized to the top of Hochblassen, which offers stunning views of the valley.

Schloss Neuschwanstein needs no introduction. It is located near the city and is the hallmark of this region of Bavaria. It was erected by order of Ludwig II and is synonymous with the word “romance”. Poets praised the castle, books were written about it, films were shot, and every romantic dreams of having a wedding here. It was built in 1886 as the residence of the “fairy tale king”. Nearby is another building that needs no introduction – Schloss Hohenschwangau. It was founded by order of the father of Ludwig II, Maximilian II, it was here that the “fairytale king” grew up.

Schloss Neuschwanstein

Schloss Hohenschwangau

Of the religious monuments, you should definitely visit Franziskanerkloster St. Anton. The church is quite modest, but it is a pleasure to be in it, there is an extremely beautiful atmosphere of peace and tranquility. Another interesting church is called Pfarrkirche St. Martin, it is the main parish church of the city. The shrine was built in the middle of the 18th century, and if it doesn’t look remarkable from the outside, when you go inside, you can be surprised by the elegant design, and you can understand why you should come here. The church is not large in size, the style of its interior decoration contains elements of baroque, rococo and classicism.

Museums are also interesting in the city. You should definitely visit the Freilchtmuseum Glentleiten – a place where you can immerse yourself in the life of local residents and feel the flavor. The museum is huge (more than 60 buildings, with more and more every year), so it is recommended to spend a whole day visiting it. You can get acquainted with the traditional sport of the Alpine region – bobsleigh – at the Historische Bobbahn Rießersee museum. Not far from the city you can find the ruins of Werdenfels Castle. The time of its construction is attributed to the 13th century, and the gorgeous panoramic views are especially impressive. And in the city you can find a museum dedicated to the castle, where artifacts found in the ruins of the castle are collected

Franziskanerkloster St. Anton

Pfarrkirche St. Martin

Freilchtmuseum Glentleiten

Shopping in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. For clothes and souvenirs – the best shops, outlets and boutiques

The popular resort has about 450 shops, so even the most demanding tourists will not be bored here. Everyone who likes bright clothes in a sports style will like the Iguana store. Here you can choose many bright and stylish things, which will not disappoint with quality and will please you with a moderate price. The store offers a huge selection of t-shirts priced from 10 to 15 euros, and here you can also choose sports pants for 20 euros, and for 15 euros you can pick up a new stylish backpack. The store is located not far from the railway station.

The Racelite store is aimed at experienced and wealthy athletes, where you can choose clothes and equipment for different seasons and different types of sports. This store will be useful for those who choose new shoes for walking in mountainous areas. Here you can pick up a classic sports suit, reliable accessories for mountaineering, and excellent sports backpacks. It is important to note that this store has products for both women and men.

The Lidl supermarket is very popular among tourists, it is also located not far from the railway station. This supermarket will be a real find for independent tourists who do not want to spend extra money on trips to restaurants and cafes. Here you can always buy excellent fresh bread, which will cost less than 1 euro, as well as sliced ​​sausage and cheese. A liter of juice will cost customers approximately 1.70 euros, and for 15-25 cents this supermarket sells excellent, freshest buns.

Albrecht Wanderkarten should be highlighted among the variety of souvenir shops. In fact, this store is also a sports store, but in addition to accessories for sports and active recreation, it sells various souvenir products. Here you can choose chic calendars with alpine landscapes, as well as albums with photos of local natural attractions. For thrifty buyers, there is a huge selection of magnets, the price of which starts from 1 euro.

Those who prefer to dress in fashionable designer boutiques will not have to be bored either, they will be able to visit the Vogele store. This store offers visitors a decent selection of men’s and women’s clothing, despite the uniqueness of the presented models, the prices here are more than humane. Ladies will be able to pick up chic leggings for only 10 euros, and for 20-30 euros they can choose wonderful blouses and sweaters. A huge selection of pants of various styles and shirts is available here for the stronger sex, the latter can be purchased at a price of 5 euros.

Travelers who will rest at the resort in the summer should definitely go to the central square next Thursday. The city’s largest market is open here from early morning until late in the evening, where you can buy both excellent locally produced products and very interesting souvenirs. In the summer, the farmer’s market sells fresh vegetables and fruits, meat delicacies and dozens of types of cheese, as well as fresh baked goods from local factories. Here you can buy a huge bouquet of flowers for an affordable price, and local artisans present their products on the market.

The busiest shopping street in the city is Ludwigstrasse, here literally at every step you can find interesting shops alternating with cozy national restaurants and cafes. There are sports shops in demand among vacationers, and excellent souvenir shops, as well as clothing stores of various stylistic trends. From this street you can walk all day, it is here that you should go in search of original designer items and traditional Bavarian costumes.

The historic pedestrian street is also attractive with numerous artisan shops where you can buy exclusive souvenirs. Local artisans are always welcome to visitors, some shops often hold master classes for guests. Art connoisseurs will also enjoy shopping here, with excellent art galleries and antique shops located on the city’s main street.