Zugspitze Guide: How to Visit Germany’s Highest Peak (Bavarian Alps)

Quick Overview: Visiting Zugspitze, Germany

• Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain at 2,962 meters (9,718 ft), located in the Bavarian Alps near the Austrian border
• Closest town: Garmisch-Partenkirchen
• Organized Tour Options: From Munich: Private Tour to Zugspitze & Lake Eibsee
• From Garmisch: Private Tour to Zugspitze with Lunch
• From Munich: Small Group Zugspitze Tour
• From Munich: Zugspitze + Neuschwanstein & Austria Tour
• Main ways to reach the summit: Eibsee cable car (fastest) or cogwheel train + glacier cable car (most scenic)
• Day trips possible from Munich by train, car, or guided tour
• Open year-round, including for skiing in winter and hiking or sightseeing in summer
• Summit views include Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland on clear days
• Panoramic restaurant and glacier activities available at the top
• Tickets can be purchased as a combo for train + cable car or as single rides
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall for clear skies, or winter for snow
• Popular add-ons: Lake Eibsee (at base station), Partnach Gorge, or Neuschwanstein Castle
• Related Reads: How to Get to Zugspitze from Munich and Garmisch
• Lake Eibsee 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.

At 2,962 meters, Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain — and one of the easiest to visit without needing hiking boots or climbing gear. Whether you’re riding a cable car up from Lake Eibsee, taking the scenic cogwheel train, or joining a day trip from Munich, reaching the summit is straightforward and absolutely worth it.

I visited while staying in Garmisch and waited for the perfect clear day — and it did not disappoint. The views were unreal, and even in October, it was freezing at the top, so pack layers.

In this Zugspitze travel guide, I’ll walk you through how to visit Zugspitze, whether you’re coming from Munich or nearby, what to expect at the summit, ticket options, and tips to make the most of your trip.

Zugspitze Ticket Options & Prices

There are a few different ways to reach the top of Zugspitze, and ticket options vary depending on the route you take. You can take the Eibsee cable car, the Zugspitzbahn cogwheel train, or a combination of both. You can purchase tickets on the official website here. Here’s what to know before booking.

Round-Trip Ticket (Train + Cable Car)

This is the most popular option — especially for visitors who want to go up one way and come down the other, for the full experience.

• Includes:
  • Zugspitzbahn cogwheel train (from Garmisch or Grainau to Zugspitzplatt)
  • Gletscherbahn cable car from the glacier to the summit
  • Eibsee cable car in the opposite direction
• Price: Around €65–75 per adult (seasonal pricing may apply)
• Tickets can be used in either direction, so you can choose how you go up and how you return.

Eibsee Cable Car Only

If you want the fastest way to the summit, the Eibsee-Seilbahn (cable car) is your best bet. It leaves from Lake Eibsee and takes just 10 minutes to reach the top.

• Round-trip: About €60 per adult
• One-way: Slightly less (~€38)
• Runs year-round, weather permitting
• Great if you’re driving or staying near Eibsee

Zugspitzbahn Train Only

If you’re based in Garmisch or want the scenic route, you can ride the Zugspitzbahn up to the glacier, then take the Gletscherbahn to the summit.

• This route takes longer but includes beautiful mountain scenery
• Round-trip: Similar pricing to the combo ticket (~€65)
• Tip: Buy the full ticket that includes the Gletscherbahn to ensure summit access

Where to Buy Zugspitze Tickets

• Online: Recommended during peak seasons — check zugspitze.de for the latest prices and availability
• At the station: Tickets available at Garmisch, Eibsee, or Grainau stations
• Included with tours: If you book a guided day trip from Munich or Garmisch, tickets are usually included

Day Trip to Zugspitze from Munich

Zugspitze makes for an easy and unforgettable day trip from Munich. Whether you’re up for planning your own route or want someone else to handle the details, there are a few solid ways to do it.

Guided Tours from Munich

If you’d rather relax and skip the train schedules or parking hassle, a guided tour is the most convenient option. These day trips from Munich include transport, summit access, and often stops at nearby highlights like Lake Eibsee or Neuschwanstein Castle.

Here are some top-rated options:

• From Munich: Private Tour to Zugspitze & Lake Eibsee
  Private transport, flexible timing, and stopovers tailored to your pace.
• From Munich: Small Group Zugspitze Tour
  Great for solo travelers or couples who want a smooth, no-stress day.
• From Munich: Zugspitze + Neuschwanstein + Austria Tour
  A full-day alpine loop with three highlights in one — ideal if you’re short on time.

Note: Most tours include cable car tickets and full transportation.

By Train or Car

If you’re going independently, take the regional train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, then connect to the cogwheel train or Eibsee cable car. Driving is also an option — it takes about 1.5 hours from central Munich, with parking available at the base stations.

For a full breakdown of routes and ticket options, see:
How to Get to Zugspitze from Munich & Garmisch – Full Guide

How to Visit Zugspitze: Cable Car vs. Train

There are two main ways to reach the summit of Zugspitze — the Eibsee cable car or the Zugspitzbahn cogwheel train. You can do either one-way or combine both into a scenic round trip.

Eibsee Cable Car

If you’re looking for the fastest and most dramatic way to reach the summit, the Eibsee-Seilbahn is the way to go. It departs from Lake Eibsee, climbs nearly 2,000 meters in 10 minutes, and drops you off directly at the summit viewing platform.

• Best for: Speed, big views, photos, early arrivals
• Trip time: ~10 minutes
• Parking available: Yes, right at the base station
• Downside: Can be closed during bad weather or high winds

Zugspitzbahn Cogwheel Train

The historic Zugspitzbahn is a slow cogwheel train that runs from Garmisch-Partenkirchen through Grainau and Eibsee, climbing steadily up to the Zugspitzplatt glacier plateau. From there, you take the Gletscherbahn cable car for the final leg to the summit.

• Best for: Families, bad weather days, if you don’t want to do the cable car
• Trip time: ~75–90 minutes total (train + cable car)
• More sheltered: Good option if the weather’s poor or windy

I did the cable car up and the train back down — and to be honest, I found the train a little underwhelming compared to the views from the cable car. But it’s a relaxing way to descend.

What to Expect at the Zugspitze Summit

Once you reach the top of Zugspitze — whether by cable car or train — you’ll step out onto one of the highest public viewing platforms in the Alps, with jaw-dropping views in every direction.

On clear days, you can see as far as Austria, Italy, and Switzerland, with panoramic views over glacier fields, sharp alpine ridges, and deep valleys below. It’s a completely different world up here — colder, windier, and almost lunar in its landscape.

Here’s what you’ll find at the top:

Viewing Platforms & Photo Spots

• There are multiple indoor and outdoor platforms where you can take in the views or snap some incredible photos.
• You can walk right up to the German-Austrian border, marked with a line on the summit deck. You can even cross over to Austrian side.
• There’s also a summit cross slightly above the viewing area — you can reach it via a short secured path (optional and weather-dependent).

Panoramic Restaurant

Zugspitze’s summit has a surprisingly modern self-service restaurant with huge glass windows and 360° views. It’s not gourmet dining, but the food is decent and the setting is unforgettable.

• Offers traditional Bavarian dishes, snacks, beer, coffee, and cakes
• Prices are a little higher than in the valley — but that’s expected at 3,000 meters
• Seating both inside and out (weather permitting)

Glacier Area

Just below the summit is the Zugspitzplatt glacier plateau, which you reach by taking the Gletscherbahn cable carfrom the top or by arriving via the cogwheel train.

• There’s snow here most of the year — even in summer
• In winter, it’s a small ski resort
• Families often spend time here playing in the snow or walking around the wide-open plateau

Best Time to Visit Zugspitze

Zugspitze is open year-round, but the experience at the summit varies a lot depending on the season. Here’s what to expect throughout the year so you can choose the right time for your visit.

Summer (June to September)

• Most popular season for sightseeing and hiking
• Clear skies offer the best summit views
• Glacier area is still snow-covered, but the surrounding mountains are green
• Longest operating hours and most frequent train/cable car departures

Autumn (September to early November)

• Quieter trails and fewer crowds
• Cooler temperatures and a higher chance of fog or snow at the summit
• A good time for photography with changing foliage
• Some services (like hiking trails) may begin closing by late October

Winter (December to March)

• Peak season for skiing and snow activities on the glacier
• Snow-covered views from the summit can be dramatic
• Cable car and train still operate, but always check weather and lift conditions
• Daylight hours are short, so plan accordingly

Spring (April to May)

• Shoulder season with fewer visitors
• Snow is still likely at the summit
• Lower valley areas begin to thaw while the top remains icy
• Check ahead — late spring often brings maintenance closures

So, When’s the Best Time to Go?

For clear skies and easy access, June to September is the best bet. If you’re interested in snow or skiing, aim for January or February. Regardless of season, always check the live webcams and weather forecast before heading up.

Tips for Visiting Zugspitze

• Check the weather and webcams before you go – Conditions at the summit can change quickly. Clear skies make a big difference.
• Arrive early – Trains, cable cars, and parking lots get crowded by late morning, especially in summer and on weekends.
• Buy your ticket in advance – Avoid long lines at the station by booking online at zugspitze.de.
• Dress in layers – It’s much colder at the summit, even in summer. Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves.
• Wear sunglasses and sunscreen – Snow glare is strong, even on cloudy days.
• Bring water and snacks – Food is available at the summit, but it’s more expensive and selection can be limited during off-peak times.
• Use the restroom before the cable car – Facilities are available at the summit, but lines can be long during peak hours.
• Families with children – The train route is easier with strollers and small kids. The glacier area has space to walk and play.
• Check the operating hours – These change seasonally. Last cable car down is earlier than many expect.
• Bring your passport – You’ll be standing on the border of Germany and Austria. ID is sometimes required if crossing between the two.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Zugspitze

Whether you’re planning a day trip from Munich or spending a few days exploring Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a visit to Zugspitze is well worth including in your itinerary.

With easy access by train, car, or cable car — and the option to join a guided tour — getting to the top is straightforward no matter how you like to travel. The views from the summit, the snow-covered glacier, and the experience of standing on Germany’s highest peak make it one of the most memorable things you can do in the Bavarian Alps.

With a little planning (and some luck with the weather), visiting Zugspitze is simple, scenic, and absolutely unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Zugspitze

Pin this Post for Later!