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Home - Travel Destinations - Oberammergau: Germany’s Beautiful Easter Holiday Destination
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
We link to affiliated partners at no extra cost to you.
Tucked into the Bavarian Alps in southern Germany, Oberammergau is one of those places that instantly get’s a “WOW !”
. Fresh mountain air, beautifully painted frescoes, domed churches, and green meadows all around. It’s small, walkable, and beautifully kept. You come here for atmosphere…and it delivers all year.
It is first of all famous for the Passion Play that takes place every 10 years, but also for its woodcarvers and woodcarvings as well as the spectacular buildings decorated, or rather painted, with a technique known as Lüftlmalerei.
Lüftlmalerei, is native to southern Germany and Austria, and especially in Upper Bavaria and in Tirol / Tyrol.
For centuries, locals have been known for their woodcarving skills. Small workshops and shops still sell hand-carved nativity scenes, religious figures, and decorative pieces.
It’s not tourist fluff. This craft helped the village survive difficult times. Buying something small feels meaningful, not commercial.
Scenic Beauty: This beautiful town is situated in the Bavarian Alps and surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and lakes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, skiing, and other outdoor activities in the area, or simply take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Traditional Crafts: Oberammergau is known for its traditional woodcarving industry, which dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the local woodcarving shops and see craftsmen at work, or even take a carving class themselves. The town is also home to a number of other traditional crafts, including painting, embroidery, and lace-making.
It is known as a popular tourist destination for many reasons, but probably the biggest reason tourists from all over the world flock to Oberammergau, is the fact that they host the Passion Play.
Oberammergau is famous for its Passion Play, a theatrical performance depicting the life and death of Jesus Christ, which is held once every ten years. The play involves over 2,000 local performers and is a unique cultural event that attracts visitors from around the world.
2030 is the year to go!
Although you will find some of the most beautiful architecture in the world all around town, there are also two churches you just have to visit.
A surprising treasure tucked away in the Bavarian countryside. Visitors often pause in awe, wondering how such an extraordinary roccoco masterpiece could appear in such a quiet, remote setting.
Built in the 18th century, it became famous across Europe both for its stunning architecture and as a place of reverence for the Scourged Saviour. Today, it still draws pilgrims for prayer while captivating millions more with its delicate frescoes, gilded details, and magical atmosphere.
Seeing the Wies Church is like stepping into a living work of art—where faith and beauty meet in a way that leaves a lasting impression.
(Photo with compliments of their Website – please visit Wies Kirche)
Where: (25 min by car) Wies 12, 86989 Steingaden, Germany
This church in Oberammergau has a long history, evolving from a simple wooden chapel to Romanesque and Gothic versions before taking its current form in the 18th century. When the old building became beyond repair, Canon Clemens Prasser oversaw its redesign, creating interiors rich with symbolism focused on humanity’s redemption and honoring Saints Peter and Paul.
Visiting today, you’ll find a church that blends history, art, and devotion—its carefully designed furnishings and thoughtful details making it a quiet yet powerful highlight of Oberammergau.
(View photos of the interior on their Website)
Where: Frühmessergasse 1, 82487 Oberammergau, Germany
Oberammergau is perfectly positioned for exploring highlights nearby:
A visit to Linderhof Palace is only possible as part of a guided tour.
40 min (45,7 km) via B17 and B23, you’ll find the famous Neuschwanstein Castle.
Tickets for Neuschwanstein Castle are available online at www.hohenschwangau.de and on premise at the Ticket Center Hohenschwangau (limited capacities).
A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle is only possible as part of a guided tour.
Answer:
Yes, it is a good idea to book your e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot since Oberammergau can get crowded.
TRAVEL TIP: If you book tours with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
Churches are beautifully decorated.
Bells echo through the valley.
The atmosphere feels reflective and authentic rather than commercial.
Spring flowers begin appearing against the backdrop of snowy peaks.
You feel the connection between faith, history, and community in a very tangible way. It’s gentle and sincere, not overwhelming.
Stay at least one night. Early mornings are peaceful before day visitors arrive.
Walk beyond the main street for quieter residential corners.
Combine your visit with nearby alpine sights to make the journey worthwhile.
Late March and April can still be chilly, so pack warm layers.
The House of Pilate has frescoes by Franz Seraph Zwinck and live demonstrations by woodcarvers and artists.
The Oberammergau Museum features woodcarvings by local artisans, and visitors can see them while working in the “living workshop” in ‘Pilatushaus’ (a beautifully decorated building created in 1784 by the Oberammergau Lüftlmaler Franz Seraph Zwinck).
Where: Ludwig-Thoma-Str. 10 82487 Oberammergau
Especially if you love Christmas…
One of my favorite stops is the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas decoration and gift shops and markets.
Where: Christkindlmarkt, Dorfstraße 25, 82487 Oberammergau
This is also the town to shop for a beautiful wooden Nativity Scene. Handcrafted by the best.
Here’s a perfect 1-day itinerary for Oberammergau that balances sightseeing, and Alpine charm:
Morning: Stroll and Art
Start at the village center – admire the colorful Lüftlmalerei-painted houses and take photos of the charming streets.
Visit St. Peter and Paul Church – explore its 18th-century interiors and rich symbolism honoring the saints.
Grab a coffee at a local café and watch the village wake up against the Alpine backdrop.
Late Morning: Wieskirche Pilgrimage Church
Drive or take a short bus ride to the Pilgrimage Church of Wies.
Spend time marveling at its roccoco interiors and the serene atmosphere that draws pilgrims from across Europe.
Lunch
Head back to Oberammergau or a nearby tavern for traditional Bavarian fare – sausages, pretzels, and apple strudel.
Afternoon: Woodcarving & Shops
Explore local woodcarving workshops and pick up a souvenir.
Stop by Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop, a magical spot year-round.
Late Afternoon: Scenic Walk
Take a short hike or walk on the trails surrounding the village for panoramic Alpine views.
Optional: Drive a few minutes to Linderhof Palace or Ettal Abbey for a quick visit.
Evening: Dinner with a View
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant with mountain views.
Finish with a slow stroll through the illuminated village streets before heading back.
This hotel, dating back to 1612, is perfectly situated. From here you can easily explore the town.
It’s pretty and photo-worthy in itself.
This historic, family-run hotel offer newly renovated rooms, a tasty breakfast buffet each morning, and packed lunches for when you’re doing daytrips. You’ll feel right at home.
Visit in summer for green meadows. Visit in winter for snow-dusted rooftops. Come at Easter for a deeper sense of meaning.
You’ll leave feeling rested, grounded, and quietly inspired.
