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Discover the timeless allure of Oberammergau, where history, culture, and breathtaking scenery come together to create an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bavaria!
As an avid semi-budget traveler and seasoned travel planner, I’m delighted to share my latest insights on things to do in Oberammergau.
With years of exploring various destinations under my belt, I’ve honed the art of balancing cultural immersion and budget considerations.
My experiences have afforded me a deep understanding of what makes a trip both memorable and affordable.
Most people think that, because Oberammergau is a small town, there isn’t much to do. But, that’s not true! In fact, there are plenty of things to see and do in this charming little town – you just need to know where to look.
Oberammergau, with its rich history and picturesque landscapes, offers a wealth of activities that cater to diverse interests.
Whether you’re seeking historical insights, artistic treasures, natural beauty, or even outdoor thrills, I’m here to guide you through the must-see attractions and hidden gems of this charming Bavarian town.
SBT Highlights
- Discover handcrafted wood carvings, authentic Bavarian folk art, and traditional souvenirs in Oberammergau’s shops and boutiques.
- Explore history and culture through the enchanting Lüftlmalerei paintings and a visit to the Oberammergau Museum.
- Experience the unforgettable Oberammergau Passion Play and enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside.
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Things to Do in Oberammergau Germany
If you’re looking for a unique travel destination that is sure to impress, look no further than Oberammergau, Germany.
This picturesque town is best known for its woodcarving tradition and for hosting the world-famous Passion Play every ten years. However, there is much more to Oberammergau than meets the eye.
The town is situated in a stunning valley surrounded by towering mountains, and its fairytale-like setting is sure to enchant visitors of all ages.
In addition to its natural beauty, Oberammergau is home to a number of interesting museums and historic sites.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Oberammergau is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany.
1) Oberammergau Passion Play & the Passionstheater
The Oberammergau Passion Play is one of those once-in-a-lifetime events that you simply must see to believe.
Every ten years, the people of Oberammergau gather together to perform a live re-enactment of the story of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. The music is exquisite!
This makes Oberammergau an especially popular destination every ten years. To read more about this unique piece of history, check out our detailed article about the Oberammergau Passion Play.
The Passionstheater (Passion Play Theatre) itself, which was built specifically for the performance, is also a must-see.
This breathtaking theater can accommodate several thousand spectators, and its stunning architecture and intricate decorations will take your breath away.
2) Visit the Oberammergau Museum
The Oberammergau Museum is a great place to learn more about the town’s history and culture.
The museum houses a collection of artifacts from Oberammergau’s woodcarving tradition, as well as a number of interactive exhibits.
During the years of the Passion Play, there are often special related exhibits as well. The admission fee is quite nominal.
3) Take a Walk Through the Bavarian Countryside
Oberammergau is situated in a beautiful valley surrounded by the Bavarian Alps.
The best way to take in the stunning scenery is to go for a walk or hike through the countryside.
There are a number of well-marked trails to choose from, so you can find a hiking trail that is suitable for your fitness level.
4) Explore the Local Churches
Oberammergau is home to a number of beautiful churches, each with its own unique character.
Whether you’re interested in medieval frescoes (at St. Peter and Paul Church) or traditional Bavarian architecture, there is sure to be a church that suits your tastes.
5) Lüftlmalerei (or Lüftelmalerei)
Lüftlmalerei is the name for the unique style of painting that may have originated in Oberammergau.
These paintings, typically done on the exterior walls of buildings, are a true work of art.
Lüftlmalerei, literally translated as “air painting,” was once a common sight in rural Germany.
This unique form of decorative/architectural art involved painting on the exteriors of buildings, often depicting scenes from everyday life, religious scenes, or popular stories and legends.
This art form continues to be enjoyed by modern travelers as a fascinating glimpse into German history and culture.
With its bright colors and combination of whimsy and practicality, this art form is both beautiful to behold and functional for residents and visitors alike.
So if you are looking for a way to engage with Germany’s diverse cultural heritage on your trip, be sure to seek out this charming example of traditional folk painting!
You can see many examples of these beautiful pieces while you’re exploring Oberammergau!
6) Crucifixion Group Sculpture
Gifted to the town by King Ludwig II in the late 1800s, this large crucifixion group sculpture is one of Oberammergau’s most iconic pieces of artwork.
The life-sized figures are incredibly realistic and the level of detail is truly astounding.
7) Laber Bergbahn Cable Car
For a scenic view of the area, be sure to take a ride on the Laber Bergbahn, or cable car.
The gondola will take you from Oberammergau up into the Bavarian Ammergau Alps, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
At the top, you will find a restaurant called Die Laberei. Here you can enjoy a meal, snack, or a refreshing drink, while taking in the views.
See the “Where to Eat in Oberammergau” section below for a pic and description of my new favorite food!
The Laber Bergbahn is located on the east side of town. Check their site for current prices.
8) Alpine Coaster
Also known as an alpine slide, this unique attraction is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
The coaster winds its way down the mountain, providing riders with breathtaking views of the Bavarian landscape.
You can find the Alpine Coaster on the west side of town. A combination ticket can be purchased, which will get you up the mountain on the chair lift (Kolbensesselbahn) and down on the alpine coaster.
Find opening times and prices on their website.
At the top of the mountain, you will also find the Kolbensattel Hut, where you can stop for some food and drinks.
Another special treat is a unique wood-carved playground, an ideal place for kids.
What’s better than a fantastic playground with views of the Bavarian Alps!
9) Wellenberg Pool
With multiple large heated indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, a kids wading play area, and a playground, this is a great place to take the family for a day of fun.
You can find the Wellenberg Pool on the east side of town, near the Laber Bergbahn. Admission is based on the length of your stay.
10) Pilatushaus
Pilatushaus, or Pilate’s House in English, is a historic structure covered with Lüftlmalereien that date back to the late 1700s.
Painted by the famous Lüftlmaler Franz Seraph Zwinck, the building is a piece of art in its own right.
The ground floor houses a “living workshop,” where visitors can observe art in process in the woodcarving shop and ask questions.
Admission is FREE!
11) Hansel & Gretel House and Little Red Riding Hood House
There is a series of houses in Oberammergau that are decorated with Grimm’s fairy tales motifs.
Among them are Hansel and Gretel, Seven Little Kids, and Little Red Riding Hood.
These houses are owned by an organization called Marie-Mattfeld-Haus, which provides children and young adults with developmental living spaces.
A Little Further Afoot
Besides all there is to do in Oberammergau itself, the town makes a great base for exploring the rest of the Bavarian Alps (and even Austria).
Some popular day trips from Oberammergau include:
12) Ettal Monastery
Less than a 10-minute drive south of Oberammergau is Ettal Abbey, which was founded by the Benedictine monks in 1330.
Here you will find a beautiful church and monastery, as well as a brewery and school.
13) Linderhof Palace (Schloss Linderhof)
Founded by King Ludwig II in 1878, Linderhof Castle is a popular day trip from Oberammergau. The ornate rooms are well-preserved and furnished with period antiques.
Outside the palace is a gorgeous garden area that visitors can walk through.
14) Zugspitze
The highest peak in Germany, the Zugspitze can be reached by taking the Zugspitze cogwheel train from the village of Grainau, and then a cable car.
The journey to the top provides incredible views.
At the summit, you will find a restaurant, viewing platform, and even a glacier.
In the winter months, the Zugspitze is a popular spot for winter sports, such as skiing and sledding. There’s even an igloo hotel!
All of these options, however, especially the igloo hotel, are quite pricey.
15) Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Germany.
This fairytale castle, built by King Ludwig II, looks like something straight out of a storybook.
The castle is located about 40 minutes away from Oberammergau, but it is definitely worth the trip.
Whether you are interested in the history of the castle or just want to admire its beauty, Neuschwanstein is sure to captivate your imagination.
16) Innsbruck, Austria
Less than 90 minutes from Oberammergau is Innsbruck, the capital city of Austria’s state of Tyrol. This beautiful city is located in the Austrian Alps and is definitely worth a visit.
Innsbruck is known for its Olympic history (it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976), but there is much more to see and do here.
Be sure to check out the Golden Roof, Ambras Castle, and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.
17) Berchtesgaden (Germany) and Salzburg (Austria)
Approximately 2.5 hours east of Oberammergau, Berchtesgaden and Salzburg are two beautiful cities that aren’t far from each other, though in different countries.
In Berchtesgaden, you can visit the Kehlsteinhaus (well known as Hitler’s “Eagle’s Nest”).
This mountaintop site was once used by Hitler as a retreat, but today it is open to visitors and offers unparalleled panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
In Salzburg, there is so much to see and do, including Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace.
Salzburg is also home to Mozart’s birthplace (now a museum) and various Sound of Music tours.
Hellbrun Palace (Schloss Hellbrunn) is another popular attraction in Salzburg, which is famous for its trick fountains and beautiful gardens.
One more fun thing to do in either Berchtesgaden or Salzburg is to visit a salt mine.
Tours can include things like boat rides, slides, and even a salt lake. Be sure to book in advance, as these things can fill up quickly.
What to Buy in Oberammergau
If you’re planning a trip to Oberammergau, you’ll have no shortage of things to buy.
Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or practical items to help make your stay in Germany more enjoyable, there are plenty of shops and boutiques that can cater to your needs.
Some of the most popular items to purchase include handmade wood carvings, high-quality leather goods, authentic Bavarian folk art, and traditional souvenirs like steins, and lederhosen.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly gifts or practical travel gear, there are also plenty of local grocery stores where you can stock up on German treats and snacks.
There’s even an outpost of the famous Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas store.
Regardless of what you choose to buy in Oberammergau, you’re sure to find something that’s unique and representative of this charming region of Germany.
Where to Eat in Oberammergau
Oberammergau is a small town, but there are still great places to eat affordably and deliciously! Here are a few of my faves!
Die Laberei
To get to this restaurant, you’ve go to take the Laber Bergbahn cable car…or hike!
Either way, head up the mountain, and order my new favorite food: Kaiserschmarrn. Literally translated “emperor rubbish,” it’s actually Austrian shredded pancakes.
I ordered Kaiserschmarrn somewhere in Munich, and it was no comparison to the Die Laberei version.
Die Laberei hits it out of the park with freshly made (you’ll have to wait a bit if you order it) pancakes, caramelized edges, and a delicious sweetness that’s hard to explain!
Die Laberei serves Kaiserschmarrn with your choice of applesauce or plum sauce.
I paid a little extra to try both, but next time I’ll only get the applesauce.
Aurhammer Bakery
I first became aware of Aurhammer Bakery because of their partnership with the app Too Good to Go. Then, I decided to have an afternoon snack there!
What a great snack, with a great view of Oberammergau’s uniquely painted buildings!
Ammergauer Maxbrau
This is one of the restaurants at Hotel Maximillian in Oberammergau.
Not thinking much of it, we showed up without a reservation the night before the premiere of the Passion Play.
There was no space for us.
Then, I asked if we could sit at the bar and order food. We got a YES! Woot!
I saw this non-alcoholic drink on the menu, and it peaked my interest.
It’s called Heisse Inge in German (Hot Ginger in English).
It’s hot water, with ginger syrup, lime, and mint. Different, but delicious!
Cheesey noodles????? Yes, please!!!!!
This portion is definitely shareable, or you could eat the whole thing by yourself (like I did!).
Kasespatzle with fried onions, plus a nicely dressed salad, was super delicious and very semi-budget friendly!
Eiscafe Paradiso
Sometimes you just want a scoop of ice cream.
Eiscafe Paradiso can provide that for you, with fantastic flavors like this cherry scoop!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Oberammergau?
Oberammergau is a small village located on the Ammer River in far southern Germany.
It is part of Bavaria, and the closest major city is Munich, which is less than 2 hours away by car or train.
If you’re coming from outside of Germany, the best way to get to Oberammergau is by flying into Munich Airport (MUC).
From there, you can take a rental car or the regional train (Bayern-Express) to Oberammergau.
Is Oberammergau worth visiting?
If you’re looking for a picturesque spot to take the kids, Oberammergau is well worth a visit.
The quaint Bavarian village is nestled in the foothills of the Alps, and its streets are lined with colorful houses and traditional shops.
The real draw of Oberammergau, however, is its Passion Play.
Every ten years, the village comes alive with a performance of the Passion Play, a biblical drama that tells the story of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion.
The play is an unforgettable experience, and it’s one that will stay with you long after you’ve left the village.
So if you’re looking for a unique and memorable vacation destination, Oberammergau is definitely worth considering.
What is the village of Oberammergau Germany known for?
The village of Oberammergau in Germany is best known for its Passion Play, which is performed every 10 years.
The play tells the story of the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, and has been performed in Oberammergau since 1634.
In addition to the Passion Play, Oberammergau is also known for its carved wooden houses and its traditional alpine clothing.
Visitors to the village can explore its well-preserved old town, visit museums, or take a cable car up a nearby mountain for stunning views of the valley below.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Oberammergau has something to offer everyone.
When is the best time to visit Oberammergau?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the best time to visit Oberammergau depends on your individual preferences and travel goals.
If you’re looking for fun on the slopes, for example, winter might be the perfect time to plan your trip.
Alternatively, if you prefer quieter holidays that involve soaking up soul-stirring scenery, then spring or fall might be a better bet.
Regardless of when you choose to go, one thing is certain: Oberammergau is a magical place with much to offer tourists of all ages.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure or peaceful respite in nature’s paradise, this charming town has something for everyone.
What’s the best way to get around Oberammergau?
The best way to get around Oberammergau is on foot.
The village is small and quaint, and everything you’ll want to see is within walking distance.
That said, if you’re planning on doing any hiking in the surrounding area, you’ll need to take other transportation to reach the trailheads (or even rent a bicycle).
Once you’re out on the trails, though, there’s no better way to get around than by leg power. So, pack your comfortable shoes, and enjoy exploring Oberammergau at a leisurely pace.
SBT Summary: Things to Do in Oberammergau Germany
All things considered, Oberammergau is the perfect destination for lovers of history, nature, and culture alike.
Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or even solo – you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
There’s something for everyone here, from traditional woodcarvings and breathtaking nature to the beautiful Lüftlmalerei paintings.
Don’t forget to check out the Oberammergau Museum and take a walk through the countryside while you’re in town!
And, if you can make it happen, plan to see a performance of the Oberammergau Passion Play (the next one will be in 2030)!
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