Königssee

How Do I Get There?

Königssee

Königssee is near the town of Schönau am Königssee, about 5 km south of Berchtesgaden. Your travel options depend on where you’re starting from—Munich and Salzburg are the most common bases for day trips. Here’s how to get there:

From Munich (Approx. 160 km, 2-3 hours one way)

• By Car: The easiest and most flexible option. Take the A8 highway toward Salzburg, then switch to the B305 via Bad Reichenhall to Berchtesgaden. From Berchtesgaden, follow signs to Schönau am Königssee and the Königssee parking area ( Jennerbahnstraße 18, 83471 Schönau am Königssee). Parking costs around €5-7 for the day. Driving takes about 2 hours, but allow extra time for winter road conditions (snow or ice possible).

• By Public Transport: Take a train from Munich Hauptbahnhof (main station) to Berchtesgaden via Freilassing (about 2.5-3 hours, €20-30 with a Bayern-Ticket). From Berchtesgaden station, hop on bus 841 to the “Königssee” stop (10-15 minutes). Check schedules on bahn.de or the DB Navigator app, as winter services may be slightly reduced. Aim for an early departure (e.g., 7:00 AM) to maximize your day.

From Salzburg (Approx. 35 km, 45 minutes one way)

• By Car: Drive south on the B150, cross the border into Germany, and continue on the B305 to Schönau am Königssee. It’s a quick 45-minute trip, making Salzburg an ideal base for a day trip. Parking is the same as above.

• By Public Transport: Take bus 840 from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof to Berchtesgaden (about 50 minutes), then switch to bus 841 to Königssee (10-15 minutes). A round-trip ticket costs around €10-15. Check schedules on flixbus.com or the Salzburg Verkehr app. Depart early (e.g., 8:00 AM) to arrive by 9:00-9:30 AM.

What’s There to See?

Königssee in winter is a quieter, more serene experience compared to the bustling summer months. The lake’s deep green waters contrast beautifully with snow-capped mountains, and the lack of foliage reveals stark, dramatic landscapes. Here are the highlights for a day trip:

boat ride to St. Bartholomä Church

1. Electric Boat Tour

   • What: The signature experience of Königssee is a ride on an electric boat (no motorboats allowed to preserve the pristine environment). In winter, boats run to St. Bartholomä (35 minutes each way) but not to Salet/Obersee, which closes from November to April due to snow.

   • Details: Boats depart from the main pier in Schönau am Königssee. On February 20, 2025, the first boat likely leaves at 9:00 AM, with the last return around 4:00 PM. A round trip to St. Bartholomä costs about €17-20 per person. The captain may play a trumpet to demonstrate the famous mountain echo—bundle up, as it’s chilly on the water!

   • Why: The views of the lake framed by the Watzmann (Germany’s third-highest mountain) and other peaks are magical, especially with snow.

2. St. Bartholomä Church

   • What: A picturesque Baroque church with red onion domes, perched on a peninsula halfway down the lake. It’s iconic and photogenic against the winter backdrop.

   • Details: Disembark at the St. Bartholomä stop (included in your boat ticket). Spend 30-60 minutes exploring the church and its surroundings. The adjacent restaurant might be open for a warm drink or snack (e.g., pretzels or soup), but hours vary in winter.

   • Why: It’s a peaceful spot with postcard-worthy scenery, and the snow adds an extra layer of charm.

3. Malerwinkel Viewpoint (Painter’s Corner)

   • What: A short, scenic walk offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains.

   • Details: From the main parking area, follow signs for the Malerwinkel trail (about 20-30 minutes round trip). The path may be icy, so take it slow. It’s doable without a boat ride if you’re short on time.

   • Why: A great way to stretch your legs and get a different perspective of Königssee’s fjord-like beauty.

4. Jennerbahn Cable Car (If Time Permits)

   • What: A cable car ride up Jenner Mountain for sweeping views of the lake and Alps.

   • Details: The Jennerbahn station is a 5-minute walk from the Königssee pier. A round trip costs around €25-30, and it takes 20 minutes to reach the top. Check operating hours (usually 9:00 AM-4:00 PM in winter) at jennerbahn.de, as weather can affect service.

   • Why: The aerial view is stunning, especially with snow blanketing the landscape, though it’s a bonus if your day allows it.

5. Winter Scenery and Atmosphere

   • What: The lake’s emerald waters, snow-draped cliffs, and quiet ambiance are sights in themselves.

   • Details: Wander along the shore near the pier or enjoy the stillness from a bench. The winter light casts a soft glow, perfect for photography.

   • Why: It’s a rare chance to see Königssee in its tranquil, off-season state.

Königssee

Sample Day Itinerary (From Munich)

• 6:30 AM: Depart Munich (drive or train).

• 9:00 AM: Arrive at Königssee, park, and buy boat tickets.

• 9:15 AM: Board the first boat to St. Bartholomä.

• 9:50 AM - 11:00 AM: Explore St. Bartholomä, take photos, and warm up with a drink.

• 11:15 AM: Return boat to the pier (arrive 11:50 AM).

• 12:00 PM - 12:45 PM: Walk to Malerwinkel viewpoint.

• 1:00 PM: Lunch at a nearby café (e.g., Gasthaus Seeblick, if open).

• 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Optional Jennerbahn ride (if time and weather permit).

• 4:00 PM: Head back to Munich, arriving by 6:30-7:00 PM.

Königssee

Adjust based on your starting point (e.g., Salzburg cuts travel time significantly).

Final Tips

• Check boat schedules at seenschifffahrt.de closer to your date, as winter timetables can shift.

• Dress warmly and expect a slower pace—winter limits some activities (like Obersee or extensive hiking), but the core experience remains unforgettable.

• If driving, ensure your car has winter tires, as required by German law in snowy conditions.

St. Bartholomä