Veröffentlicht von Oberammergau is one of Bavaria’s most famous and picturesque villages. Located in the Ammergau Alps about 90 km southwest of Munich, it is known worldwide for its Passion Play, traditional woodcarving, and beautifully painted houses (Lüftlmalerei). Surrounded by mountains and green meadows, Oberammergau combines culture, religion, craftsmanship and Alpine nature in a way few places in Germany can match.
Many visitors come as part of a day trip from Munich, often together with Linderhof Palace or Neuschwanstein Castle. However, the village is worth more than just a short stop. If you stay overnight, you can experience its charm in a much more relaxed way.
Where Is Oberammergau?
Oberammergau lies in Upper Bavaria near the Austrian border. The village is nestled in the valley of the River Ammer and surrounded by the Ammergau Alps. The setting is classic Alpine Bavaria: wooden balconies, church towers, mountain peaks and fresh mountain air.
How to Get There
- By Car: About 1.5 hours from Munich via the A95 motorway.
- By Train: Regional train from Munich to Murnau, then the Ammergau local railway to Oberammergau.
- By Bus Tour: Many organized tours combine Oberammergau with castles and scenic drives.
If you prefer organized travel, check available excursions here:
Day Trips to Oberammergau from Munich
Combine Oberammergau with Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace on a comfortable guided bus tour.
The Passion Play – A Unique Global Tradition
Oberammergau’s international fame is closely tied to its Passion Play (Passionsspiele), performed every ten years.
The tradition dates back to 1633. During the Thirty Years’ War, the plague struck the region. According to local history, the villagers vowed that if God spared them from further deaths, they would perform a play depicting the suffering and death of Christ. After the vow, the plague reportedly ended in the village, and the first Passion Play was performed in 1634.
What Makes the Passion Play Special?
- Only local residents may participate
- Thousands of villagers are involved
- Performances last several hours
- Performed every decade (next cycle every ten years)
The Passion Play Theatre is an impressive modern building that can also be visited outside performance years.
Lüftlmalerei – The Painted Houses of Oberammergau
One of the first things visitors notice are the colorful house facades. This traditional painting style is called Lüftlmalerei. It decorates buildings with religious scenes, fairy tales and everyday life motifs.
House with Lüftlmalerei in the centre of Oberammergau
Notable painted houses include:
- Pilatushaus: One of the most famous decorated buildings.
- Little Red Riding Hood House: Fairy-tale imagery on a private home.
- Various religious frescoes along Dorfstraße.
Walking through the village feels like an open-air art gallery.
Woodcarving – A Living Craft Tradition
Oberammergau is also famous for its woodcarving. The craft developed as an additional income source during difficult times in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, you will find workshops and shops selling:
Most carvings have a religious background
- Nativity scenes
- Religious sculptures
- Decorative Alpine figures
- Traditional Bavarian crafts
The craftsmanship remains an important part of the village’s identity.
Top Things to Do in Oberammergau
1. Explore the Village Center
Stroll along Dorfstraße and admire the painted houses, traditional shops and cafés.
2. Visit the Passion Play Theatre
Guided tours are often available.
3. Hike in the Ammergau Alps
The surrounding mountains offer numerous hiking routes, from easy valley walks to more demanding Alpine climbs.
4. Ettal Abbey (Nearby)
Only a few minutes away by car is Ettal Abbey, a Benedictine monastery with a beautiful basilica and local liqueur production.
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Day excursion from Munich There are great day tours by bus to the world famous Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich. The best tour also stops at other famous places in the area like Linderhof. |
Best Time to Visit Oberammergau
- Spring: Fresh Alpine scenery, fewer tourists.
- Summer: Ideal for hiking and photography.
- Autumn: Colorful mountain landscapes.
- Winter: Snow-covered village charm.
- Passion Play Year: Unique cultural event (very busy).
How Long Should You Stay?
- 2–3 hours for a quick visit
- Half day combined with Linderhof
- 1–2 nights for hiking and relaxed exploration
Overnight stays allow you to enjoy the peaceful evening atmosphere after day tourists leave.
Where to Stay in Oberammergau
Although small, Oberammergau offers charming guesthouses, Alpine hotels and family-run pensions.
Find Hotels in Oberammergau
Compare hotels, guesthouses and Alpine lodges in Oberammergau on Booking.com.
Staying overnight gives you more time to explore hiking trails and nearby attractions without rushing.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Unique cultural tradition (Passion Play)
- Beautiful painted houses
- Authentic Bavarian atmosphere
- Alpine hiking opportunities
Cons
- Small village – limited nightlife
- Can be crowded during Passion Play years
Is Oberammergau Worth Visiting?
Yes. Oberammergau offers a rare combination of living tradition, art, religion and mountain scenery. It is especially rewarding if you appreciate cultural heritage and Alpine landscapes.
Whether you visit for a few hours or stay overnight, this Bavarian village leaves a lasting impression
Nice film with impressions from Oberammergau
Day trip to Neuschwanstein