Bavaria’s historic town of Berchtesgaden packs serious historical weight and natural beauty into its mountain setting. The most worthwhile tours feature the infamous Eagles Nest, a Nazi-era mountaintop outpost with spectacular Alpine views. I love the Eagles Nest Hiking Tour – it combines exercise with history and some of Europe’s finest vistas. For history buffs, the Eagles Nest & Bunkers tour from Salzburg gets you deep into WWII sites while explaining complex history in understandable terms. Active travelers should consider the beginner-friendly Via Ferrata Schützensteig tour, which safely introduces you to classic Alpine climbing with patient guides. Let’s check out the specific details of our recommended tours.
Key Points
- The Eagles Nest Hiking Tour offers a 5.0-rated guided trek to the historic Nazi site with insights into the area’s history and panoramic views.
- The Eagles Nest & Bunkers WWII Tour provides a 5-hour experience with transportation, visiting the Eagle’s Nest and optional Obersalzberg bunkers.
- The Private Half Day WWII Historical Tour focuses on key WWII sites, including the Eagle’s Nest and Documentation Centre, with personalized service and air-conditioned transportation.
- The Full Day Eagles Nest Obersalzberg WWII Tour is a 7-hour private group experience led by a WWII historian, covering significant historical sites.
- The Via Ferrata Beginner Tour of Schützensteig offers a 4-hour introduction to via ferrata for beginners, with scenic views of the Berchtesgadener Land.
Eagles Nest Hiking Tour
Although the Eagles Nest Hiking Tour in Berchtesgaden, Germany offers visitors a chance to explore the remnants of World War II’s Nazi legacy, the experience goes far beyond simply seeing historical sites.
Rated 5.0 out of 120 reviews with a 99% recommendation rate, this tour provides an in-depth look into the region’s complex past, led by a knowledgeable guide. Hikers will trek up to the iconic Eagle’s Nest, following the same path as the liberating US forces in 1945.
Along the way, they’ll gain insights into the Nazi’s presence on Obersalzberg, including Hitler’s chalet and bunkers. The small group format, capped at 8 travelers, ensures a personal experience.
While a moderate fitness level is required, the breathtaking mountain scenery and historical context make the 710-meter elevation gain well worth the effort.
Whether a history buff or casual hiker, the Eagles Nest Hiking Tour offers an immersive and rewarding experience in Berchtesgaden.
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Eagles Nest & Bunkers Obersalzberg WWII Tour From Salzburg
The Eagles Nest & Bunkers WWII Tour from Salzburg takes visitors on an immersive journey through Berchtesgaden’s complex past. This 5-hour tour, limited to just 7 participants, departs from centrally located hotels in Salzburg. The tour includes pickup, transportation via air-conditioned van, and an English-German-speaking driver.
Guests will first visit the iconic Eagles Nest, Hitler’s mountaintop chalet constructed in 1939. After a photo stop, they’ll have 3 hours to explore the site, enjoy coffee, and take in the panoramic views.
An optional visit to the nearby Obersalzberg bunkers provides further insight into the region’s dark history.
The tour highlights the Eagles Nest’s historical significance as a symbol of Nazi power, from its precision stonework to its role in the regime’s decision-making.
Despite Hitler’s limited visits due to a fear of heights, the site remains a poignant reminder of the area’s haunting past. This tour offers a unique opportunity to understand Berchtesgaden’s complex history while taking in its stunning natural beauty.
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Eagles Nest-Berchtesgaden-Obersalzberg Private Half Day WWII Historical Tour
This private half-day historical tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Berchtesgaden’s WWII legacy. Titled “Eagles Nest-Berchtesgaden-Obersalzberg Private Half Day WWII Historical Tour,” the experience is highly praised, with 39 reviews and a flawless 5.0 rating.
The tour focuses on key WWII sites, including the iconic Eagle’s Nest and the Documentation Centre with its extensive bunkers. Guests appreciate the personalized service, as the private tour allows for tailored experiences and attention to individual interests.
Seamless transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey. With knowledgeable guides like Tom Lewis, the tours are engaging and informative, bringing the historical significance of these sites to life through captivating storytelling.
Priced competitively, the tour includes all entrance fees, making it an accessible and enriching experience for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors. Highly recommended by 100% of travelers, this WWII tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Berchtesgaden.
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Berchtesgaden: Via Ferrata Beginner Tour of Schützensteig
For those seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure in Berchtesgaden, the Berchtesgaden: Via Ferrata Beginner Tour of Schützensteig offers an exhilarating experience. Priced at €89 per person, this 4-hour tour provides the opportunity to learn the basics of via ferrata, including belaying, climbing, and resting.
Led by a professional mountain guide, you will enjoy scenic views of the Berchtesgadener Land, rolling plains, snow-capped peaks, and blue lakes.
The tour caters to various difficulty levels, from A/B to B, making it suitable for both beginners and those with some experience. Participants will receive a via ferrata kit, including a helmet, gloves, and harness, as well as cable car tickets.
While children under 10 and those afraid of heights aren’t permitted, the tour is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to try their hand at via ferrata.
With a 3.8/5 overall rating, the Berchtesgaden: Via Ferrata Beginner Tour of Schützensteig promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Bavarian Alps.
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Berchtesgaden-Obersalzberg Private Half Day WWII Historical Tour
Offering an immersive journey through Berchtesgaden’s WWII history, the Berchtesgaden-Obersalzberg Private Half Day WWII Historical Tour provides a personalized experience for visitors.
Over the course of a private half-day tour, guests explore the historical significance of the area as the southern headquarters of the Nazi Party. The tour includes visits to sites like Hitler’s Berghof, the RSD Headquarters, SS officers’ housing, and the Documentation Centre with original bunkers.
Knowledgeable guides offer in-depth insights, engaging storytelling, and a family-friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation and entrance fees to the Documentation Centre and bunkers, though food and drinks aren’t provided.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
Based on 8 reviews with a 5.0 overall rating, the tour offers a captivating look into Berchtesgaden’s WWII past.
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Berchtesgaden: Full Day Eagles Nest Obersalzberg WWII Tour
Enjoy the captivating history of Berchtesgaden’s WWII legacy on the comprehensive Berchtesgaden: Full Day Eagles Nest Obersalzberg WWII Tour.
This 7-hour private group experience provides unparalleled access to the region’s most significant historical sites, including the iconic Eagles Nest and the ruins of Hitler’s Berghof.
Led by an accredited WWII historian, the tour offers a detailed exploration of the Obersalzberg mountainside, uncovering hidden locations and providing panoramic views from these significant sites.
Explore the stories of Hermann Göring, Albert Speer, and other key figures as you visit their former homes and the abandoned military hospital.
Discover the historical Berchtesgaden train station built for Hitler, and gain a deeper understanding of the National Socialist complex.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is an unmissable opportunity to learn about the region’s captivating WWII history.
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Berchtesgaden: Private Eagles Nest & Obersalzberg WWII Tour
This comprehensive 4-hour private tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through Berchtesgaden’s captivating WWII history. Priced at $503.92 for up to 8 participants, the tour explores the Eagles Nest at 6,017 feet and the ruins of Hitler’s Berghof, offering insights from personal accounts.
The tour begins with a pick-up from the accommodation or Berchtesgaden’s train/bus station, followed by a driving tour of Obersalzberg, the Southern Headquarters for the National Socialist Party.
Visitors will then embark on a walking tour to Hitler’s Berghof ruins, taking in panoramic views, and explore the original bunkers. The highlight is the visit to the Eagles Nest, where historical features like the marble fireplace and brass elevator can be experienced.
With an English-speaking guide, the tour provides opportunities for Q&A throughout. Seasonal access and additional fees for the Documentation Centre and Eagles Nest are noted.
This tour is praised for its extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling, making it a must-experience for history enthusiasts visiting Berchtesgaden.
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Berchtesgaden: Private Guided Walking Tour
Berchtesgaden’s rich history takes center stage on this private guided walking tour. Lasting 2 hours, the tour explores the town’s origins dating back to 1102 AD, when it was named after an Alpine goddess.
Guests will discover the importance of the region’s lucrative salt mines, which passed from nobility to clergy before joining Bavaria in 1810. The tour also highlights the royal residency and the rise of tourism in the 19th century, as well as Berchtesgaden’s role during Nazi rule and its transformation into a stronghold.
Priced at $218.54 for up to 15 participants, the tour is led by a local guide exclusively for the group, allowing for customization. It includes gratuities and entrance fees, and travelers can meet the guide in front of the AlpenCongress Berchtesgaden.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this private walking tour offers an immersive way to experience Berchtesgaden’s captivating past and natural beauty.
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Sum Up
Berchtesgaden offers a range of captivating tours that provide insights into its rich history, particularly during the WWII era. From the iconic Eagles Nest to the Obersalzberg bunkers, visitors can explore the region’s significant historical sites. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area also boasts opportunities for exciting activities like via ferrata. With a variety of tour options available, travelers can tailor their experiences to their interests and enjoy the natural beauty of Berchtesgaden.