Things To Do
in Oberstdorf
Oberstdorf, nestled in the Allgäu Alps of southern Bavaria, is a picturesque mountain town famed for its alpine scenery and traditional Bavarian hospitality. In winter it becomes a lively ski village with world-class slopes and a vibrant après-ski scene, while summer reveals a network of scenic hikes and crystal-clear lakes. The town serves as a gateway to famous gorges such as Breitachklamm and to panoramic viewpoints reachable by cable cars.
Visitors enjoy gemütliche inns, dairy-fresh cuisine, and a welcoming, outdoors-friendly atmosphere that makes it a year-round mountain retreat.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Oberstdorf and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the picturesque views of the Alps. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint village center, where you'll find charming shops and inviting cafes. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local delicacies before embarking on your day's adventures.
Explore the nearby Fellhornbahn, where you can take a scenic cable car ride to the top of the Fellhorn mountain. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking, offering numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. Grab a light lunch at a mountain hut, relishing the fresh Alpine air.
Return to Oberstdorf for a traditional German dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like schnitzel and potato salad. After your meal, enjoy a peaceful walk through the illuminated village streets, immersing yourself in the charming atmosphere. End the night with a hot drink at a cozy café.
After breakfast, lace up your hiking boots and head out to explore the numerous trails surrounding Oberstdorf. Choose a scenic route such as the hike to the Höfats or the panoramic trail to the Schlappoldal valley. Breathe in the breathtaking mountain scenery as you traverse the lush landscapes.
Stop for a picnic lunch amidst the stunning backdrops of nature, enjoying the tranquility that surrounds you. Continue your hike, perhaps encountering a local mountain pasture and watching as cows graze peacefully. Capture the moments with photos, cherishing the beauty of the Bavarian Alps.
Return to the village for a well-deserved dinner, where you can try more regional specialties. Find a spot with views of the mountains as the sun sets, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange. Spend the night at a local beer garden, chatting with fellow travelers while enjoying a pint of local brew.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in a café | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $18-25 |
| 🏨Hotel nightly (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| 🚠Cable car ride (Nebelhorn) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning alpine scenery and easy access to outdoors
- Strong winter and summer sports culture
- Warm Bavarian hospitality and cozy inns
- Small-town nightlife may be limited for some
- Can be crowded during peak seasons and holidays
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
Places to Visit in Oberstdorf
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic canyon with towering walls, waterfalls, and wooden walkways offering moody, dramatic photos.
Panoramic viewpoints over the Allgäu Alps; spectacular sunrise or sunset photos are common from the top.
A serene alpine lake with clear reflections of the surrounding peaks, ideal for landscape photography.
Meadow-filled slopes and sweeping alpine panoramas accessible via cable car with easy photographic access.
Food in Oberstdorf
Oberstdorf Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy cheese noodles topped with crispy onions; a quintessential Allgäu comfort dish.
Must-Try!
A firm Alpine cheese often enjoyed with bread, pickles, and fruit.
Slow-roasted pork shoulder with crackling, common in Bavarian inns, typically served with dumplings and sauerkraut.
A flavorful beer cheese spread made with aged cheese, onions, and paprika; great on bread or pretzels.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring dairy products, bread, honey, and regional specialties; a good place to sample local produce.
Casual options for quick, warming bites like Bretzels, sausages, and hot drinks after a hike.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting used in Bavaria; greet people you meet in restaurants, shops, and on the street.
Being on time is valued in social and professional settings; plan accordingly for reserved attractions.
Smart-casual is common in town; in inns and huts, practical outdoor wear is normal for comfort and safety.
Safety
Tipping in Oberstdorf
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit/debit cards are increasingly common in shops and eateries; contactless payments are popular in urban settings.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, comfortable temperatures for hiking and cycling; sudden mountain storms can appear; pack layers and rain gear.
Golden larches and cooler air; fewer crowds; great for photography and harvest-time cuisine experiences.
Snow-sure skiing and snowboarding with charming Christmas markets; be prepared for cold conditions and icy surfaces.
Melting snow reveals green valleys; trails may be muddy early on, so wear waterproof footwear.
Oberstdorf at Night
Hiking in Oberstdorf
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Spectacular canyon hike with dramatic rock walls and viewpoints.
Ridge route offering expansive alpine views from the summit area.
Family-friendly trails with alpine scenery and easy climbs.
High-altitude hikes with sweeping panoramas and wildflower meadows.
Airports
How to reach Oberstdorf by plane.
Regional airport with connections to Germany and some European destinations; about 120-150 km away depending on route.
Nearby regional airport, convenient for domestic and limited international flights; roughly 100-160 km away.
Major international hub offering extensive connections; about 200 km away by road.
Swiss gateway with broad international connections; roughly 180-220 km away and accessible by train or car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large influx in summer and winter, including families, hikers, and skiers.
Long-standing families with ties to agriculture, tourism, and crafts.
Hikers, bikers, and winter sports enthusiasts seeking outdoor experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Multiple slopes and resorts in the region; suitable for all levels and seasons.
Historic Schattenbergschanze venue in Oberstdorf; hosts renowned events.
Extensive Nordic trails through valleys and meadows.
Abundant day hikes and longer treks in the Allgäu Alps.
Summer routes and guided rides for various skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oberstdorf.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many inns offer vegetarian versions of local dishes; look for Käsespätzle without meat, dumplings with vegetables, and fresh salads. Inform staff of any dietary restrictions and ask about cheese rennet if needed.