Zugspitze Tours and Tickets

There are several ways to reach the top of Zugspitze. The Zugspitze Cable Car departs from the Eibsee, a lake near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, and takes about 10 minutes. The Zahnradbahn, a cogwheel train, takes riders to the Zugspitze Plateau, where they catch another cable car to the top. There’s also the Tiroler Zugspitzbahn, yet another cable car, for those from the Austrian side.

The things to do on Zugspitze depend on the season of your visit. In winter, Zugspitze turns into Germany's highest ski resort, with numerous slopes suitable for all levels. In the warmer months, soak up the Bavarian Alps and valleys vistas, hike, or grab a meal at a mountaintop restaurant, enjoying Germany’s highest views while you dine.

While there is no entrance fee to visit Zugspitze itself, there are costs associated with the transportation options to reach the summit. Tickets for the cable cars and cogwheel trains vary in price depending on which one you choose, the season, and whether you purchase a round-trip or one-way ticket.

The best time of year to visit Zugspitze depends on what you’re looking to experience. Winter (December to April) is great for skiing, snowboarding, apres-ski coffee breaks, and other cold-weather endeavors. Summer (June to September) is great for traveling, sightseeing (visibility is typically better in this season), and enjoying the alpine wildflowers.

Yes, you can hike to the summit of Zugspitze, but every route is difficult. The Reintal Route is the least demanding, but it still typically requires an overnight at a mountain hut. The Gatterl Route starts in Austria and traverses a difficult mountain pass. The Hollental Route is the most challenging and scenic, involving a combination of hiking, climbing, and crossing a glacier.

The weather on Zugspitze can be unpredictable, varying wildly depending on the season. In winter, expect below-freezing temperatures, with plenty of snow and ice. In summer, temperatures can range from cool to mild, but it can still be chilly at the summit. Summer storms can also bring rain and reduced visibility. In short, always pack layers.