Dokumentationszentrum Obersalzberg
Berchtesgaden, Bavaria
The dark secrets of Obersalzberg, the sleepy alpine town that was transformed into a Nazi headquarters during World War II, are laid bare at the Dokumentationszentrum Obersalzberg. The museum tells the stories of Adolf Hitler, the Nazi regime, and Obersalzberg before, during, and after World War II, as well as preserving a series of underground bunkers used by Hitler during the war.
The basics
Tickets to the museum include access to the five-part permanent exhibition and the bunkers; a self-guided audio tour is available, and guided tours can be booked in advance. Most travelers visit Dokumentationszentrum Obersalzberg in combination with Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest, and buses to the Nazi base leave from just outside the building. Day tours from Munich, Salzburg, and Berchtesgaden often visit both sites, as well as other locations in the region, providing important context for your visit.
Things to know before you go
- There is a small entry fee to the museum, which includes audio guides; admission is free for visitors under 18.
- Plan between one and two hours to visit the museum and bunkers; self-guided audio tours last either 40 or 80 minutes.
- Due to the subject matter, the museum isn’t recommended for children under 12 years old.
- Some of the bunker floors are gridded, so opt for flat footwear.
- The museum and bunkers are accessible for wheelchairs, but access to the bunkers is limited for wide electric wheelchairs. Foldable chairs are available for those with limited mobility.
How to get there
The museum is in the mountain town of Obersalzberg. From Berchtesgaden, you can take bus 838 to Obersalzberg or drive there in about 10 minutes; there’s plenty of parking in town, but it can fill up quickly in the summer, so arrive early if possible. Joining a day tour that includes transportation is also a good option.
When to get there
The Dokumentationszentrum Obersalzberg is open daily year-round, except for select holidays. The last entry is in the late afternoon. If you’re planning to visit the Eagle’s Nest, note that the site is only accessible from May through October.
World War II sites around Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden served as a power center for Hitler and the Nazi party during World War II, and the Dokumentationszentrum Obersalzberg is just one of several sites documenting the dictatorship and its atrocities. In addition to the Eagle’s Nest, used for Nazi meetings, locations around Obersalzberg include the ruins of Nazi headquarters The Berghof, Hermann Göring’s house, the SS Moll bunkers, and Kampfhäusl Hut, where Hitler wrote Mein Kampf.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!