 Some places you'll only visit once, but then there's some places that'll become part of who you are. I would be remised if I returned to this travel blog and didn’t share my own itinerary for my favorite place on the planet: Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany or as the locals call it, GAP! From quick weekend trips, to living in Garmisch for nearly 2 years, to returning for weeks at a time in every season – this town has become so special and deeply personal to me over the last decade. I’ve built a connection here that goes far beyond sightseeing, and I'm more than excited to share it with y’all! I’ve put together a flexible itinerary filled with activities, sights, hikes, and favorite eateries, organized by how long you may be in town: ➜ Day Trip ➜ Weekend Getaway ➜ 3-5 Day Escape ➜ 1-Week Adventure You’re more than welcome to mix, match, and rearrange each travel event to fit your own style. So whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, I hope this guide helps you experience Garmisch the way I’ve come to love it. Enjoy! 1 Perfect Day in Garmisch-Partenkirchen Morning
Midday
Start your morning slow and easy before getting ready for the day's activities with either Wildkaffe or Der Laden for coffee and a light breakfast. If you want something cozy and intentional, Wildkaffe is perfect for lingering over some quality coffee. If you're craving something a little more casual or grab-and-go, Der Laden would be more of your vibe, especially if you want breakfast with less wait time. If you're enjoying your day trip during the weekend, check out Konditorei & Kaffeehaus Krönner as they are open daily unlike Wildkaffe that is closed on the weekends, and Der Laden is closed on Sundays. If you find yourself at Cafe Krönner for a light dessert, you must eat the Käse-Sahne-Torte! This airy, fluffy cheesecake with a hint of citrus can fulfill just about any sweet craving. Tip: Eat something light in the morning, you're going to want the energy for walking and some room for lunch later.  Patio of Cafe Krönner After some coffee, head on over to the Olympic Ski Stadium. Even if you're not a sports fan, it's worth a stop and will be your point of parking. Use the map below to park for a portion of the day's activities and lunch. The Olympic Ski Stadium is great to enjoy the slow moments, take photos, and appreciate how Garmisch blends history, sport, and nature all in one. It's also the walking entrance of the Partnach gorge - the heart of this day trip! The gorge walk is well-maintained but still feels like a wild rush with the flowing and illuminating waters. You'll want to have some sturdy shoes and a light jacket if you don't want to get wet from the mist or the dripping water from the rock walls. The weekends can get quite busy so be sure to take your time, it could take 1-1.5 hours or more depending on your pace to get through the gorge and back to the starting point. Tip: Check the website first to ensure the gorge is open, there may be unsafe conditions for tourists. Once you exit the gorge, you'll head over to the Klammhaus where you'll be rewarded with your hard earned Bavarian beer or a selection of hearty, comforting German dishes. The biergarten is perfect to rest for a little before some more fun activities! Afternoon
If weather permits, make your way to the alpine coaster (Sommerrodelbahn) that you'll see from where you parked. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family, the alpine coaster is fun for everyone! You get to control your speed, so either way it's thrilling whether you want to go full send or just take your time. This is the perfect final stop before heading to the next part of your day since it's easy going and you'll be smiling instead of feeling exhausted. Next, head towards Partenkichen's historic Ludwigstrasse. You'll notice the painted facades, cobblestone streets, and quieter atmosphere that feels like you're stepping into a different time. You can window shop, or grab some souvenirs, linger around, grab a gelato, maybe a Spritz, or make your way to Chocolatier Amelie. I've yet to step into inside and not feel compelled to buy chocolate for myself or friends, it's simply the best!  Stroll the old streets of Partenkirchen German Dinner Options
As the evening settles in, please have a reservation ready for Tony Alm if y'all want the full alpine experience. Tony Alm is my #1 recommended option to eat in Garmisch, not only for the views and delicious food, but also because of the relaxed atmosphere. It's the kind of ending to your day that makes you feel content instead of tired and that's what a great day trip should be all about!  Mountain views from the outdoor patio of Tony Alm Weekend GetawayOptions of Where to Stay
Over the years, I noticed there has been so much controversy online with guests that have base access to stay at Edelweiss Lodge & Resort (ELR). Mainly because of the prices and what's offered on base vs. where folks can stay off base. I have the experience of both sides, and I can see where the controversy lies. Yet I still recommend families with base access to consider their stay with ELR because of the convenience of planned activities with their leisure department, extra amenities, paying in U.S. dollars, the comfort of minimizing language barriers, and overall making a low stress trip away from home much easier. I also enjoy soaking in and immersing myself into different cultures, I don't mind the language barriers and if anything, it helps me improve my skills. Everyone has different preferences so wherever you choose to stay, you'll still get the opportunity to enjoy Garmisch-Partenkirchen just as it is - simply perfect!  Edelweiss Lodging & Resort in Garmisch Day Trips & Highlights
For the first day of your weekend getaway, head on over to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles since they sit side by side. Use the map below to park in front of the tourist office in town. An alternative if parking there is full would be closer to the Hohenschwangau Castle at Parkplatz 4 with the address Alpseestraße 27, 87645 Schwangau, Germany. If you're pressed for time but still want to experience at least one of the castles, my recommendation is to check out Hohenschwangau - often you can get tickets much easier than Neuschwanstein, there's less crowds, and I am personally more intrigued by the Hohenschwangau Castle due to its intricate, detailed decor and history. After exploring the fairytale architecture and learning about the region's royal history, continue just across the border into Austria for Highline 179, one of the world's longest pedestrian suspension bridges. This could be added as a stop either on your way to the castles or on the way back to Garmisch before settling in for the day. Day 1 Quick Tips:
 Views of the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle Day two is all about alpine contrasts, starting with Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak, before easing into the calm of Eibsee. Take the cable car for quicker ascent/descent or the Zugspitzbahn for the cogwheel experience which takes about 45 minutes one way. Whether you're hiking, sightseeing, skiing, snowboarding, or sledding, you'll be able to see amazing views that stretch across multiple countries on a clear day (check the live cameras before purchasing your tickets). After taking in the panoramic mountain views, head down to the lakeshore of Eibsee for a walk, run, bike ride, swim, or even ice skating when it's frozen - It's one of the most peaceful stops in the region! If you're stopping there for lunch or get hungry, order a schnitzel for me at the Eibsee Hotel, it's my favorite spot to have a schnitzel and spezi! Afterwards, you'll wrap up the day with a visit to the town of Grainau, a charming village near Eibsee, perfect for a relaxed stroll, coffee stop, shop for souvenirs, or early dinner before heading back to Garmisch. Traffic can be a mess in this area so combining the Zugspitze and Eibsee keeps driving minimal and experiences meaningful, just an ideal combo for a weekend getaway!  Cogwheel train up to the Zugspitze Eateries in Garmisch
Waffelhaus (no, not the Waffle House) is another top pick and a must if you're looking to have brunch in town. Their menu has changed over the years but if anything, it improves each time! Their homemade fruit teas are delightful and their American inspired breakfast items helped me from feeling homesick. Reservations, especially during weekends is recommended. If you're looking for a juicy, savory, and sometimes fall apart burger, Shaka Burgerhouse is the spot to check out! Their hangover burger and their Philadelphia steak sandwich were my favorites.  Shaka Burgerhouse in Garmisch 3-5 Day EscapeA 3-5 day stay can give every kind of traveler the freedom to slow down and experience more than just the highlights. Consider this time to mix scenic hikes, alpine villages, and cultural stops without feeling pressed for time. I would balance the more active and rugged days with slower mornings, lingering lunches, and spontaneous detours. With a few extra days, nearby town Ettal and the Linderhof Palace can fit into one of the days as they are closer together without the rush of driving far. Nature & Adventure
 Outdoor heated pool at Das Graseck Culture & History
 Ettal Monastery Unique Experiences
 Carved my very own wooden dagger at Holzschitznerei Klucker in Oberammergau Food & Experiences
 Dining at Gasthof Frauendorfer 1 Week Alpine AdventureWith a full week in the Bavarian Alps, Garmisch becomes less of a destination and more of a home base. This amount of time allows y'all to experience the region across different speeds. Mix up the different categories from outdoor adventures, seasonal highlights, wine & beer events, and day trips by train however feels best for you as a solo traveler, traveling as a couple, or traveling as a family! Iconic Hikes & Outdoor Fun
 Hiking through the Hoellental Gorge Seasonal Highlights
 Beginning the torch lit hike at the Partnach Gorge Food, Wine & Culture
 Brewery tour at Griesbräu Zu Murnau Easy Day Trips by Train
 Day trip to Mittenwald How Was Your Trip to Garmisch-Partenkirchen?No matter how long y'all stay, Garmisch-Partenkirchen just has a way of meeting you as you are. Whether you're squeezing in a day trip (because why wouldn't you), escaping for a weekend, or settling into a full alpine week, the magic of GAP is there all year round! So, use this as a guide and leave some space for unexpected moments that aren't planned at all - those are often the moments that last the longest! 
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