At 2,962 meters, the Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain – and an absolute must-see in the region. You can reach the summit easily via the Zugspitzbahn cable car from Lake Eibsee, or by taking the cogwheel train (Zahnradbahn) from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. A popular option is to combine both for a scenic round trip: up by train, down by cable car. Tickets for the full experience are around €75 for adults – it’s best to book in advance online, especially on weekends or during peak season.

At the top, multiple restaurants offer food with a view, and you can even stand right on the border between Germany and Austria. If you arrive via the cogwheel train, you'll first reach the Sonnalpin station on the Zugspitzplatt, where you can walk a short panoramic loop and see the remnants of the once-larger Zugspitz glacier before continuing to the summit via a short aerial cable car ride.

Want to hike to the top? Be well-prepared. All routes to the summit are long, demanding, and require alpine experience. Many include exposed sections or via ferrata. Always check the route, difficulty, weather conditions, and required gear. Note: Early season ascents (before July) are often not possible due to lingering snowfields.