10 best things to do in Oberammergau: a Bavarian town in Germany

Spend a day or two exploring this fairytale Bavarian town.

Munich isn't the only thing Bavaria's got going for it... here's what to do in the lesser-known town of Oberammergau.

1. Enter the world of a king

Linderhof Palace is straight from the pages of a Hans Christian Andersen fairytale and was one of the lavish hunting lodges used by Ludwig II. Explore the spectacular Hall of Mirrors, the tapestry chambers and the vast king’s bedroom with its chandeliers, velvet-canopied bed and ornate gold decor. In the palace gardens don’t miss St Anna Chapel.

Linderhof Palace

2. Find your passion

In the Bavarian mountains, Oberammergau comes alive every 10 years when locals stage the Passion Play. It’s been a tradition since 1634 and was first performed to protect the faithful from the plague. The play recreates the last days of Christ and only locals can take part. Rehearsals are under way for the 2030 performance.

The peak of Kofel in Oberammergau

3. Go to a royal party

Visit Oberammergau on August 24 and celebrate the birthday of King Ludwig II. Although he was born in Munich, the King was especially fond of Oberammergau and on his birthday eve, proud locals prepare bonfires in his honour. The centrepiece is Kofel mountain, where a 14m tall wooden crown is built and set ablaze. Then there’s a procession and party. 

4. Enjoy an e-bike tour

Rent an e-bike from local bike shop owner Lukas Spindler – he has e-bikes for the whole family – and spend a morning or afternoon pedalling at your leisure along the quiet roads around Oberammergau. Book a cycling tour through the Ammergau Alps Nature Park if you want a guide to show you some hidden Bavarian gems. 

Take a self-guided tour around the cobbled streets of Oberammergau

5. Take a walking tour

Download the free Locandy app and take a self-guided tour around the cobbled streets and intricately painted houses – visit during winter and you’ll see elaborate Christmas window displays. The Cultural Mile tour provides a glimpse of artisans at work – the town is renowned for its woodwork. Or nature lovers can explore the woodlands and learn about Bavarian flora and fauna.

6. Stay in a hunting lodge

Bavarian royalty loved to hunt and built a string of timber hunting lodges in the mountains overlooking Oberammergau. You can now spend a night or two at these lodges and enjoy the panoramic views, biting fresh air and home-cooked fare. Book through the town’s Tourist Information Centre or online.

Hotel Alte Post Oberammergau. Bavaria.

7. Stay in a traditional inn

Oberammergau’s traditional inns offer warm Bavarian hospitality. The Hotel Alte Post in the heart of the town is distinguished by its wooden shutters and painted facade. Built in 1612, it’s the oldest hotel in town. Rooms are clean and cosy and the restaurant serves delicious Bavarian specialties including “wedding soup” and crispy vegetable rosti.

8. Take a Bavarian hike

Oberammergau is breathtaking at any time but winter is particularly beautiful. Soak up the scenery during a snowy hike, or try some cross-country skiing. Local operators also offer snowshoe tours across the Ammergau Alps. Book at the Tourist Information Centre at 9a Eugen-Papst Strasse.

S’Wirtshaus restaurant uses locally grown and made ingredients

9. Feast Bavarian style

Located on Sternplatz, S’Wirtshaus restaurant uses locally grown and made ingredients to whip up dishes such as hearty meat soup with liver dumplings, Wiener schnitzel with cranberries, pork schnitzel in bacon and onion breadcrumbs with salad, or bratwurst with sauerkraut and fried potatoes. Don’t leave without sampling the apple strudel. 

10. Bathe in the forest

Try some “forest bathing” in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park. Book a session with a therapist who’ll lead you through the trees and use gentle exercises to open your senses to the sights, sounds and smells. Or follow the 85km Meditation Trail through forests, meadows and villages to find inner peace. Book a tour so you don’t have to carry luggage, and accommodation will also be arranged.

Originally published as 10 best things to do in Oberammergau: a Bavarian town in Germany