Königssee

Introducing Lake Königssee

Königssee is located near the small town of Berchtesgaden on the German-Austrian border, close to the Alps. This small town nestled in the mountains is one of the most beautiful areas of the German Alps. It is Germany's deepest lake.

Formed by glaciers during the last ice age, Lake Königssee is 7.7 kilometres long, about 1.7 kilometres wide at its widest point, with a shoreline of 19.96 kilometres and an area of ​​5.218 square kilometres. It has a capacity of 511,785,000 cubic metres, an average depth of 98.1 metres and a maximum depth of 190 metres. Except for the outlet adjacent to the town, Lake Königssee is completely surrounded by the Alps, including the Watzmann, Germany's second highest peak.

Climate and best time to travel

September-October

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

4 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Königssee

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Königssee is a natural lake in the Bavarian Alps, renowned for its stunning beauty and clear waters. It has been a popular destination for hiking, boating, and photography since the early 20th century. The lake’s location near the Watzmann massif adds to its significance as a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Königssee is located in the Berchtesgaden National Park in southern Bavaria, Germany. It can be reached by train from Berchtesgaden to the lake, followed by a short walk to the boat terminal. Taxis and buses are also available from Berchtesgaden.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The lake is accessible year-round, with the best time to visit being from late spring to early autumn for warm weather and clear skies. Boating services run from April to October, and winter offers a quieter, snow-covered experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Boat trips on the lake cost around €15–20 depending on the route. Tickets can be purchased at the boat terminal or online for convenience. Entry to the national park is free.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book boat tickets in advance during peak seasons (June to August), especially for popular routes to St. Bartholomä. A few days in advance should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Königssee typically takes 3-5 hours, including a boat ride and time for hiking or exploring St. Bartholomä. A full day is ideal if you plan to hike around the lake and enjoy the surrounding areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights include the boat trip to St. Bartholomä, the Watzmann mountain views, and the picturesque village of Schönau. The surrounding trails offer stunning vistas of the lake and Alps.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, especially for boat rides to St. Bartholomä, in both German and English. Audio guides are available on boats for a more informative experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Great photography spots include the boat ride itself, especially when approaching St. Bartholomä with the Watzmann mountain backdrop, and viewpoints from hiking trails like the one leading to the Obersee, another stunning lake near Königssee.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a boat ride from the terminal to St. Bartholomä, then hike around the lake or take a longer trail towards the Obersee. End with a visit to Schönau village for a relaxing meal and some sightseeing.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available, but there are evening boat rides during the summer, offering a peaceful atmosphere on the lake at sunset.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Königssee can be quite crowded during peak summer months, especially in July and August. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or in the off-season months like April or October.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities at the lake include public toilets, restaurants at St. Bartholomä, souvenir shops, and rest areas along the hiking trails. Food and water are available at various points around the lake.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The boat ride and some areas around the lake are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, but the hiking trails can be challenging for those with mobility issues. There are also child-friendly facilities and activities available, such as boat rides.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is still accepted at some small shops and restaurants, most places accept cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes near the boat terminal and at St. Bartholomä. The restaurants offer traditional Bavarian food and regional specialties, with some offering scenic lake views.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are generally available at most restaurants. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, but some larger restaurants in the area may offer alternatives.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Schönau am Königssee, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxurious resorts. You can also find accommodations in Berchtesgaden, which is a short drive from the lake.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Watzmann mountain, the Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus), and the Berchtesgaden National Park. The town of Berchtesgaden also offers historical sites and museums.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops at the boat terminal and near St. Bartholomä selling local crafts, Bavarian-themed souvenirs, and products like honey, cheese, and wooden carvings.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

From Königssee, you can take a bus or taxi to nearby towns like Berchtesgaden or Salzburg, or continue your trip by train or car to explore more of Bavaria or Austria.