Chiemsee
Bavaria, Germany
Lake Chiemsee (nicknamed “the Bavarian Sea”) is a protected nature reserve and one of the largest lakes in Bavaria, covering an area of 31 square miles (80 square kilometers). Visitors come to the lake for water sports, hiking, cycling, and visiting nearby attractions such as Frauenworth Abbey and King Ludwig II’s Herrenchiemsee New Palace.
The basics
Travelers often come to Chiemsee on bus and train tours from Munich. Some tours showcase the highlights of the Bavarian Alps and the Berchtesgaden region, including the Eagle‘s Nest. Others hone in on the magnificent scenery around the lake, with a popular attraction being Herrenchiemsee New Palace, King Ludwig II’s unfinished copy of the Palace of Versailles. Travelers who want to escape the crowds can explore the local area with a private driver-guide or go on a self-guided bike tour.
Things to know before you go
- A boat trip at Lake Chiemsee is a must-do activity, but avoid rainy and overcast days, as the islands are likely to be hidden in fog.
- Restrooms (including accessible toilets) are available at the Prien-Stock harbor, next to the ticket office.
- If going on a boat trip, access to the boats from the pier is via a mobile ramp that can accommodate wheelchairs.
- It is recommended that wheelchair users begin boat tours in Prien-Stock as accessible toilets and parking are available.
- The Chiemseeringline public bus circles Lake Chiemsee multiple times a day and offers barrier-free travel.
How to get there
Lake Chiemsee is a popular day trip from Munich, as the journey is 54 miles (87 kilometers), and it takes just over an hour to reach Prien via the A8 highway. If traveling by train from Munich’s main station, catch a regional train (in the direction of Salzburg) to Prien am Chiemsee, Bernau bei Berlin, or Ubersee. Then, continue the adventures by bus, boat, bike, or on foot to explore the beauty of the lake.
When to get there
The warmest months to visit Lake Chiemsee are July and August—but these months also attract the biggest crowds. Highs in mid-July reach 79.3°F (26.3°C), and nighttime temperatures drop to 57.8°F (14.3°C). To enjoy pleasant weather without the peak crowds, other recommended months to visit are June and September.
Can you swim in Lake Chiemsee?
Yes, you can swim in Lake Chiemsee at the designated bathing beaches in Bernau, Breitbrunn, Chieming, and Ubersee. Families with small children should check out Seebruck, which has shallow swimming areas, playgrounds, sandpits, changing rooms, and showers. Visitors typically take a dip during the warmer summer months, when the lake’s average temperature is between 68°F (20 °C) and 79°F (26 °C).
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