Lake Eibsee, Germany Travel Guide: How to Get There + Things to Do

Quick Overview: Lake Eibsee, Germany

• Location: Lake Eibsee sits at the base of the Zugspitze in Bavaria, near Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
• How to Get There: About 1.5 hours from Munich by rental car or public transport. You can book an organized tour here, both private or in groups.
• Tour Options: Private Eibsee Lake & Zugspitze Tour from Munich,
• Small Group Tour including Lake Eibsee, Zugspitze & Neuschwanstein
• Private Tour from Garmisch to Lake Eibsee & Zugspitze with Lunch
• Why Visit: Clear alpine water, mountain views, hiking, swimming, and access to the Zugspitze cable car.
• Where to Stay Nearby: There is a hotel directly on the lake, Eibsee Hotel. Learn more about where to stay in Garmisch with this post.
• Top Activities: Walk the 7.5 km Eibsee loop trail, rent a boat, or take the cable car to Zugspitze.
• Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall. Winter is quieter but still worth visiting.
• Swimming: Allowed, but the water stays cold year-round.
• Related Posts: How to Get to Zugspitze, Zugspitze Travel Guide, Best Things to Do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them — at no extra cost to you.

Tucked beneath the towering Zugspitze in the Bavarian Alps, Lake Eibsee is often called one of Germany’s most beautiful alpine lakes — and for good reason. With its emerald-green water, forested shoreline, and mountain reflections, it feels like something straight out of a postcard.

While it’s popular with day-trippers from Munich, spending a bit more time here allows you to experience the quieter sides of the lake — sunrise walks, peaceful swims, and hikes without the crowds. This Lake Eibsee travel guide covers everything you need to know before visiting: how to get to Eibsee, what to do once you’re there, when to go, best photo spots, hiking and where to stay if you want to slow down and soak it all in.

How to Get to Lake Eibsee

Lake Eibsee is located just outside the village of Grainau in southern Bavaria, right at the foot of the Zugspitze. Whether you’re coming by car or public transport, getting here is pretty straightforward — especially from Munich.

Organized Tours to Lake Eibsee

If you’d rather skip the logistics and let someone else handle the details, there are several great guided tours that include Lake Eibsee — often combined with nearby highlights like Zugspitze or Neuschwanstein Castle.

Some popular options include:

• Private Eibsee Lake & Zugspitze Tour from Munich
  A full-day private trip with flexible timing and transport.
• Small Group Tour including Lake Eibsee, Zugspitze & Neuschwanstein
  Ideal if you want to see multiple alpine highlights in one efficient day.
• Private Tour from Garmisch to Lake Eibsee & Zugspitze with Lunch
  A relaxed, locally-led option perfect for visitors already staying in the area.

By Rental Car

Driving from Munich to Lake Eibsee takes about 1.5 hours via the A95. It’s a scenic route and gives you the flexibility to explore nearby areas like Garmisch-Partenkirchen or even make a loop through the Austrian Alps.

Lake Eibsee Parking: There’s a large paid parking area right next to the Zugspitze cable car station. It fills up quickly on weekends and holidays, especially in summer, so arrive early if you’re visiting during peak times.

Book a rental car in Munich here!

By Train and Bus

Take the regional train (RB) from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen — roughly 1 hour 20 minutes. Then:

• Option 1: Catch Bus 9706 from Garmisch to Eibsee (approx. 35–40 minutes)
• Option 2: Take the Zugspitzbahn (cogwheel train), which stops directly at Eibsee. It’s slower, but the mountain views are worth it.

Day Trip from Munich

Yes, you can absolutely visit Lake Eibsee as a day trip from Munich. It’s one of the most popular alpine escapes from the city, especially in summer and early fall. If you catch an early train (or drive out before 8 AM), you’ll have most of the day to hike, swim, or ride the cable car.

Things to Do at Lake Eibsee

Lake Eibsee is more than just a scenic stop — it’s a full alpine experience. Whether you’re here for a few hours or a few days, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the lake and surrounding mountains at your own pace. From hiking to photography, here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Walk the Eibsee Loop Trail

The 7.5 km loop trail around Lake Eibsee is one of the most accessible and rewarding hikes in the Bavarian Alps. It hugs the shoreline nearly the entire way, with forested paths, wooden bridges, and several spots where you can dip your feet in or pause for a snack with a view.

• Difficulty: Easy, with very minimal elevation gain
• Time: 1.5–2 hours at a relaxed pace
• Pro tip: Go clockwise from the parking lot — this direction gives you better views of the Zugspitze and morning light on the lake

Even if you’re not an avid hiker, this trail is manageable and scenic the entire way — a perfect way to soak up the alpine atmosphere without a strenuous climb.

Take the Zugspitze Cable Car

You can’t visit Eibsee without at least considering a ride on the Zugspitze Cable Car (Eibsee-Seilbahn). It climbs nearly 2,000 meters in just 10 minutes, taking you to the summit of Germany’s tallest mountain — with floor-to-ceiling windows and sweeping views the whole way.

• Once at the top, you’ll find a panoramic platform, restaurant, and glacier views across four countries
• Combine it with the cogwheel train on the way down for a scenic round-trip or take the cable car back down the same way.
• Can get crowded midday — go early or late in the day for a better experience

This is one of the easiest ways to get high into the Alps without a full-on alpine hike, and it’s well worth the price for first-timers.

Rent a Boat or SUP

During the warmer months, renting a boat or paddleboard is one of the most peaceful ways to experience Lake Eibsee. You’ll find a small rental station near the parking lot, offering rowboats, pedal boats, and stand-up paddleboards.

• Perfect for getting out to the tiny islands that dot the eastern side of the lake
• Great for photos or just drifting in the sun
• Rentals typically operate May through October, depending on weather

If you’re up for a calm morning paddle, this is a great way to see the lake from a different angle — with the Zugspitze rising dramatically behind you.

Go for a Swim

Yes, you can swim in Lake Eibsee — and it’s incredibly refreshing. I went in October and didn’t swim in all the way but got my feet wet. The lake’s water is glacier-fed, so even in mid-summer, it stays chilly. But the water is also crystal-clear and among the cleanest in Germany, making it perfect for a dip after hiking or paddling.

• There are a few small pebbly beaches and rocky outcrops around the lake, especially on the south and east sides
• No lifeguards, so swim with care
• Water shoes could help on rocky sections

On a hot day, it’s one of the most scenic places you’ll ever swim — with towering alpine peaks behind you and calm, blue-green water all around. Even on a cooler day, it can be refreshing.

Find the Best Photo Spots

Lake Eibsee is one of the most photographed alpine lakes in Germany, and it’s not hard to see why. The contrast of the turquoise water with the jagged Zugspitze peak makes for unreal images — especially in the early morning when the lake is calm.

Top photo spots include:

• The wooden pier near the boat rentals, ideal for reflections and early light
• The islets on the eastern side, best photographed at sunrise
• The southern trail section, where the mountains mirror on the still water
• Winter or late autumn offers foggy, atmospheric shots if you’re lucky

If you’re into photography, plan your walk around the lake for sunrise or sunset to catch golden light on the peaks.

Where to Stay at Lake Eibsee

While many people visit Lake Eibsee as a day trip, staying overnight gives you a chance to enjoy the lake early in the morning or after the crowds have left — which is when it’s at its most peaceful. There are only a few places to stay right near the lake itself, but nearby towns like Grainau and Garmisch-Partenkirchen offer more variety.

Eibsee Hotel

If you want to stay directly on the lake, Eibsee Hotel is your only option — and it’s a pretty special one. This historic, 4-star hotel sits right on the shoreline with panoramic views of the lake and Zugspitze. Guests get private lake access, a full spa, and front-row sunrise views right from their room.

• Ideal for couples, photographers, or anyone wanting a slower pace
• On-site restaurant and lakeside beer garden
• Free parking and easy access to the cable car

It’s not budget-friendly, but it’s hard to beat the location. Rooms book out quickly in summer and autumn, so plan ahead.

Book your stay at Eibsee Hotel on Trip.com!

Book your stay at Eibsee Hotel on Booking.com!

Stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

If you’re looking for more options or something more affordable, Garmisch-Partenkirchen — just 20 minutes away — is the best base. It’s a charming alpine town with plenty of guesthouses, hotels, and vacation rentals.

• Frequent public transport to Eibsee (bus or Zugspitzbahn)
• Easy access to hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities
• More dining and shopping options compared to the lake area

Garmisch also puts you in a great spot to explore other Bavarian highlights like Partnach Gorge or Wank Mountain.

Learn about where to stay in Garmisch-Partenkirchen here!

Best Time to Visit Lake Eibsee

Lake Eibsee is beautiful year-round, but the experience can be completely different depending on the season. When to go depends on what you’re hoping to do — hiking, swimming, photography, or just soaking up alpine views.

Summer (June to August)

This is peak season for a reason. The lake is at its warmest (though still chilly), the trail is fully accessible, and the boat rentals are running. It’s a great time for swimming, hiking, and long, sunny days by the water.

• Most crowded season — expect full parking lots and busy trails by midday
• Best time for boat rentals, swimming, and SUP
• Early mornings and weekdays are quieter

Autumn (September to October)

Early fall is a personal favorite. The crowds thin out, the air gets crisp, and the surrounding forests turn golden. The trail is still easy to walk, and visibility is often excellent for photography.

• Peak for fall colors, usually late September to mid-October
• Boat rentals may shut down depending on weather
• Dress in layers — mornings and evenings can get cold

Winter (November to March)

Lake Eibsee in winter is incredibly peaceful. The trail is often walkable (though icy in spots), and the snow-covered Zugspitze makes the whole area feel like a postcard. The cable car runs year-round, and it’s a quieter alternative to busier ski resorts.

• Ideal for a peaceful escape, snowshoeing, or winter photography
• Some facilities around the lake may be closed
• Bring proper winter gear — paths can get slick

Spring (April to May)

As the snow melts and the lake begins to thaw, spring brings a quieter energy. Wildflowers start to bloom, and the trail becomes fully accessible by late April or early May.

• Shoulder season: fewer crowds, lower accommodation prices
• Water is still very cold, but views are fantastic
• Boat rentals usually reopen in May

So… When’s the Best Time?

If you want to swim and do everything the lake has to offer, aim for late June to early September. For quieter trails and beautiful colors, late September to mid-October is hard to beat. If you’re after snow and stillness, January to March offers a totally different side of the lake.

Before You Go to Lake Eibsee: Practical Tips

A little planning goes a long way at Lake Eibsee. Here’s what you should know before your trip — especially if you’re visiting during peak season or planning to hike the full loop.

Parking at Lake Eibsee

If you’re driving, there’s a large paid parking lot right next to the lake and the Zugspitze cable car station. It’s the most convenient spot — but it fills up quickly on weekends and sunny days.

• Cost: Around €7–20 for the day
• Payment: Card or cash (machines can be fussy, so carry coins just in case)
• Tip: Arrive before 9:00 AM in summer for a spot, especially during holidays

There’s limited overflow parking nearby, but it often means a longer walk.

Is Lake Eibsee Open Year-Round?

Yes — the lake and the hiking trail are open all year. That said, some services (like boat rentals or snack kiosks) are seasonal, usually operating from May through October.

• The trail is usually walkable even in winter but may be icy — check conditions
• Cable car runs year-round, weather permitting

Winter can be stunning, but facilities are minimal. Bring snacks and water if visiting off-season.

What to Pack for Lake Eibsee

Even though the Eibsee loop is an easy walk, it’s smart to come prepared — especially if you’re doing the full trail or visiting outside of summer.

• Good walking shoes or hiking boots — trails can be uneven or muddy
• Layers — weather can shift quickly, especially in spring or fall
• Water and snacks — especially if you’re staying for the afternoon
• Swimwear and towel in summer
• Water shoes if you plan to swim (rocky entry points)
• Camera or phone with plenty of storage — you’ll want it

Also, bring cash if you plan to use parking machines or buy from kiosks that don’t take cards.

Are Dogs Allowed at Lake Eibsee?

Yes — dogs are welcome at Lake Eibsee, including on the loop trail and in the surrounding area. They must be kept on a leash, and you’re expected to clean up after them.

If you’re planning to take the cable car or use public transport, check ahead — dogs are generally allowed but may need a muzzle or separate ticket.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Lake Eibsee

Whether you’re hiking the loop trail, paddling across crystal-clear water, or just sitting lakeside with a view of the Zugspitze, Lake Eibsee is one of those places that makes you slow down — in the best way. It’s easy to see why it’s become a popular escape from Munich, but with a little extra time, you’ll find there’s still plenty of quiet magic to discover here. Come early, stay late if you can, and let the lake do the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Eibsee, Germany

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