Bavaria, Germany

Berchtesgaden & Königssee

Alpine Lakes & Mountains

July 20 (Wednesday)

20
2026

Day Trip from Salzburg

Explore the stunning Berchtesgaden region just across the German border from Salzburg. The highlight is the emerald-green Königssee lake surrounded by dramatic Alpine peaks. Take a scenic electric boat ride to the iconic St. Bartholomä church, and optionally visit the Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) for panoramic mountain views.

Getting There

From Salzburg Hbf: Direct bus 840 to Berchtesgaden (~30-40 min, frequent)

Cost: ~€10-12 round-trip (often free/included with Salzburg Card)

From Berchtesgaden to Königssee: Local bus 841/843 (~10 min)

Total travel time: ~45-60 minutes each way

Morning

July 20

Departure & Königssee

Early Bus to Berchtesgaden

8:00 AM

Depart Salzburg around 8-9 AM to maximize time on-site. Scenic route along the mountains

Königssee Electric Boat Ride

Mid-Morning

Arrive at Königssee lake and board the famous electric boat (silent for environmental protection). Cruise across the stunning emerald waters surrounded by towering peaks. The boat stops at St. Bartholomä—a picturesque pilgrimage church with red onion domes on a peninsula. The captain will play a trumpet to demonstrate the famous echo off the mountain walls!

St. Bartholomä Church & Lakeside Walk

Late Morning

Explore the charming church, take photos of the iconic scene with mountains reflected in the lake, and enjoy a short walk along the shore. There's a traditional Bavarian restaurant here for lunch

Afternoon

July 20

Eagle's Nest (Optional)

Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus)

Afternoon (Optional)

Optional: If time and energy permit, visit the Eagle's Nest—a mountaintop retreat built for Hitler, now a restaurant with spectacular 360° Alpine views. Take special bus 849 from Berchtesgaden (timed tickets required, book in advance). The journey includes a dramatic drive up the mountain and a brass elevator through solid rock. Allow 3-4 hours for this addition.

Alternative: Berchtesgaden Town

Afternoon

If skipping Eagle's Nest, explore the charming Berchtesgaden town center, visit the Obersalzberg Documentation Center (history museum), or hike nearby trails

Evening

July 20

Return to Salzburg

Return Journey

Late Afternoon

Take the bus back to Salzburg in the late afternoon/evening. Arrive back for a relaxed dinner in the old town

Important Tips

• Königssee boat rides run frequently but can have lines in summer—go early

• The lake water is incredibly clear and cold—bring layers as it's cooler by the water

• Eagle's Nest requires advance timed tickets (kehlsteinhaus.de)—book early!

• Eagle's Nest is only open May-October (weather dependent)

• Pack layers, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes

• Allow 8-10 hours total for full day trip (less if skipping Eagle's Nest)