From Munich: Royale Palace of Linderhof with Oberammergau

Key Points

• Visit Linderhof Palace, the smallest of King Ludwig II’s three palaces, in rococo style with detailed interiors.
• Explore the grounds, including the Venus Grotto, Moorish Kiosk, and Moroccan House.
• Stop in Oberammergau, a historic town famous for its Passion Play and painted houses.
• Includes a drive through the German Alps and a visit to Ettal Abbey.
• Small group tour limited to 8 participants, with local guide and hotel pickup.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Starts in Munich: Comfort and Convenience

This full-day tour begins with hotel pickup in Munich, making it easy to start your Bavarian adventure without planning transportation. The tour is operated by Pure Bavaria Tours and limits group size to 8 people, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from the guide. The price of $142 per person offers access to several top sights in southwest Bavaria in a single day.

The tour lasts about 9 hours, which includes driving time, sightseeing, and free time at key stops. The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Munich hotels, making it accessible whether you’re staying in the city center or nearby.

Scenic Drive to the German Alps and Ettal Abbey

The journey begins with a drive towards the German Alps, offering scenic views of Bavaria’s mountainous landscape. The first stop is at Ettal Abbey, a 14th-century monastery home to about 50 monks. Visitors explore the historic abbey buildings, gaining a glimpse of religious life in Bavaria that dates back hundreds of years.

This stop provides a peaceful introduction to the day’s highlights and sets the tone for the scenic beauty ahead. The drive between stops offers plenty of opportunities to admire the lush, rolling landscape of the Bavarian countryside, with the Alps looming in the distance.

Touring Linderhof Palace: Bavaria’s Rococo Treasure

The centerpiece of the tour is a guided visit to Linderhof Palace, built in the late 19th-century for King Ludwig II. As the smallest of his three palaces, it is the only one Ludwig II sees completed. The palace is designed in a fanciful rococo style, with elaborate interiors like the Hall of Mirrors, which features a carpet made of ostrich feathers and ivory candelabras.

Linderhof is famous for its exquisite grounds, including several outbuildings and gardens. Tour participants can admire the Venus Grotto, a theatrical cave inspired by Wagner’s Tannhäuser, where Ludwig liked to row across in a swan boat. The grounds also feature a Moorish Kiosk with a peacock throne and the Moroccan House, adding exotic touches to the landscape.

This extensive palace tour allows visitors to fully appreciate Ludwig II’s fantasy-inspired architecture and attention to detail inside and outside the palace.

Free Time to Explore Linderhof Gardens and Buildings

After the guided tour of the palace interiors, there is time for self-guided exploration of the gardens and outbuildings. Visitors can walk through the landscaped grounds, visit the Moorish Kiosk, and admire the Moroccan House‘s decorative architecture.

This free time enables a closer look at the ornate features and landscape design that Ludwig II carefully crafted. It’s also an opportunity for photos and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the palace grounds.

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Visit to Oberammergau: Town of Passion Play and Painted Houses

The tour’s final stop is in Oberammergau, a historic Bavarian town best known for its Passion Play, held every 10 years. The town is also famous for its woodcarvers and colorfully painted houses.

Here, visitors enjoy a stroll through the town, viewing artistic facades and learning about its cultural traditions. Tour participants have time to explore, browse local shops, and enjoy a lunch at a recommended spot (lunch not included in the tour package). This stop provides a relaxed end to the sightseeing, with scenic views of the Alps as a backdrop.

Practical Details: Logistics and Inclusions

This full-day tour is designed for comfort and ease. The pick-up and drop-off are included, and the group size is limited to 8 participants, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. The local English-speaking guide shares insights about the sights, Bavarian customs, and local life.

The tour price covers transportation and guiding services, but entrance fees are paid separately (around €8.50). Visitors should plan to bring cash for entrance fees and are advised that lunch and refreshments are not included.

Highlights of the Guided Experience

The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing local stories and tips that enrich the experience. The comfortable van makes for a pleasant ride, especially during the scenic drives through the Bavarian Alps.

The timing balances structured visits with free time, allowing a good mix of guided exploration and personal discovery. Stops are well-paced, and the small group size ensures an engaging, intimate experience.

The Unique Appeal of the Linderhof and Oberammergau Tour

This tour offers a combination of architectural marvels, scenic drives, and Bavarian culture. The visit to Linderhof Palace highlights Ludwig II’s imagination and craftsmanship, while the stop at Oberammergau introduces travelers to local art and traditions.

The inclusion of Ettal Abbey adds historical depth, rounding out a comprehensive view of Bavarian heritage. The scenic route through the Alps offers breathtaking views, making this tour more than just a palace visit.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour suits history and architecture enthusiasts, especially those fascinated by royal palaces and rococo design. It’s also ideal for scenic lovers, as the drive through the Alpine landscape is particularly beautiful.

Travelers looking for a comfortable, well-organized day with small groups and local insights will find this trip rewarding. However, it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, given the walking involved at some stops.

Final Thoughts on the Linderhof and Oberammergau Tour

This $142 tour from Munich offers a comprehensive glimpse into Bavaria’s royal and cultural treasures in a convenient, intimate setting. The high praise for guides and beautiful scenery makes it a strong choice for first-time visitors and culture enthusiasts.

While the entrance fee is additional, the guided access to Linderhof Palace and Oberammergau‘s charming streets makes the overall experience worthwhile. The scenic drive, historic sites, and small group size combine to create a memorable day in Bavaria.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price of $142 per person includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Munich, transportation, and a local guide. Entrance fees to Linderhof Palace are paid separately (around €8.50).

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, covering travel time, guided tours, and free exploration periods.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven terrain at some stops.

Can I buy the tickets on the day of the tour?
It’s recommended to reserve in advance. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund and reserve now, pay later option is available.

What makes this tour different from other Bavarian day trips?
This tour emphasizes personalized small-group experiences, detailed guided commentary, visits to Ludwig II’s palaces, and a scenic drive through the Alps, providing a well-rounded Bavarian experience.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring cash for entrance fees and lunch if you wish to dine at Oberammergau, as meals are not included. Comfortable shoes are advisable for walking around the palace gardens and town.

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