Oberammergau

The Basics

Rich in culture, history, and nature, Oberammergau is located in a verdant valley between Munich and the Austrian border. The Passion Play is the town’s big draw. Legend has it that the town was spared from the worst effects of the bubonic plague after a resident vowed to perform a play depicting the Passion of the Christ every 10 years. The tradition has persisted ever since.

If you’re a culture geek, check out the frescoes, the Oberammergau Museum, and the Pilatushaus, where artisans demonstrate the town’s wood carving techniques. Oberammergau features on numerous day trips from Munich—some itineraries include stops at nearby attractions such as Linderhof Palace and Ettal Abbey. The town is also popular with hikers and winter sports enthusiasts. And don’t forget to sample Bavarian delicacies like bratwurst, sauerkraut, and apple strudel.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Passion Play takes place in German, though accompanying English texts are provided.

• The 4,500-seat Passion Play Theatre is partly exposed, so wear layers.

• For the most impressive panoramic views of the town, take a cable car to Kofel, the nearest mountain.

How to Get There

To get to Oberammergau from Munich (the closest major German city), take the train to Murnau, then transfer to the regional train to Oberammergau—about a 2-hour journey. If you’re driving from Munich, take the A95. The town is also a quick road trip from Innsbruck, Austria.

When to Get There

Oberammergau is busiest during Passion Play years. If you’re there in an off year, there’s no bad time to explore.

How to Attend the Oberammergau Passion Play

Oberammergau’s Passion Play dates to the 17th century, and attracts some 500,000 visitors to its stagings. As the play is held only once a decade (in years ending in a 0), it’s worth making plans in advance. Performances happen roughly 100 times between May and October, and you can purchase tickets and 2- or 3-day packages online.

Is Oberammergau worth it?

Yes, Oberammergau is worth visiting. The historic Bavarian village is famed for its Alpine views, painted half-timbered houses, and chocolate-box appeal. Every 10 years, it hosts the Passion Play, a staging of the Passion of the Christ, held regularly since the mid-17th century.

How should I visit Oberammergau?

The closest major city to Oberammergau is Munich, roughly 56 miles (90 kilometers) northeast. To travel by public transportation, take a train from Munich’s Central Station to Murnau or Oberau and then transfer to local services to Oberammergau. Alternatively, it’s roughly an hour by car from Munich.

What time does the Oberammergau Passion Play start?

Every 10 years, the Oberammergau play is held from May to October and is performed daily (except for Mondays and Wednesdays). The play is held for roughly 5 hours, beginning at 2:30pm. At 5pm, the play pauses for a dinner break before starting again at 8pm.

How much are the tickets for Passion Play in Oberammergau?

Tickets to the Oberammergau Passion Play vary in cost and can change from decade to decade. Typically, they range in price from around $32 to $190, and it can be worth paying more for the up-close views. The town of Oberammergau also offers package deals covering ticket and hotel costs.

Why is Oberammergau’s Passion Play only every 10 years?

The tradition of the Oberammergau Passion Play goes back to the 17th century when the town’s residents promised God they would put on a play honoring the Passion of the Christ if he were to spare them from the bubonic plague. They’ve performed it every decade since then.

What should I wear to the Passion Play in Oberammergau?

Because Oberammergau’s Passion Play Theater is open-air (although the seating area is covered), it’s worth dressing for the weather. If visiting early or late in the season, bring layers and warm shoes with you, as the play goes on until late in the evening, and it may get chilly. Blankets are also provided.