Berchtesgaden must do's list includes great scenery, heady elevations, grand ruins, magnificent abbeys, churches, cathedrals and monasteries and maybe a few castles along the way. A Berchtesgaden must do's list should include:

The Abbey Church

This imposing building is sandwiched between other buildings. Augustine monks built the abbey between 1283 and 1303. After having been struck by lightning, the steeples were rebuilt in 1866. Stained glass windows and tombstones mark the notable Prince Provosts from the 15th and 19th centuries. The walls are slabs of markers that highlight some of the hierarchy within the church.

The Ruins of Berghof

Haus Wachenfeld was built for a banker in 1916. Hitler bought the cottage in 1932 and renovated it adding a sun-room. A fountain in the center of town has seen little change and still stands proudly.  An incomplete rail tunnel was built east of the Bahnof for a rail line between Berchtesgaden and Salzburg. The tunnel is said to have been used at the end of the war to hide some of Hermann Goring's personal treasures. Berghof has seen ruin, but today its spirit is alive and well and ready to please the traveler.

Zum Tuken

A hotel that dates back to the early 20th century, Zum Tuken is a great place for hikers and skiers to stay. The Nazis took over the hotel for Hitler's body guards during the bombing of the Obersalzberg. Today the hotel offers it accommodations to visitors to the Eagles Nest and other Berchtesgaden attractions. The hotel itself is only open to its registered guests but other travelers may gain entrance to the tunnels for a slight admission fee.

The Boat Cruise

For a couple of hours the traveler can enjoy a sail across one of the largest lakes in Germany. Travel up to the farthest point on the lake and the traveler will be in Obersee. The traveler can trek across a short strip of land and see the spell binding view of the upper lake. It is wise to catch the cruise in St. Batholome and onto Salet, as long lines can form to view the church. These cruises will leave the traveler full of wonder and awe with history and beauty.

Nuremburg

The Documentation Museum is a must do, with history custom to Nuremberg. This museum is at the Nazi Party Rally Grounds and will guide the visitor through Hilter's rise to power and tour the Lochgefangnis Prison. There is fun to be had here, too.  The Toy Museum or the Zoo will fill the traveler with spirited fun.