Chiemsee
- Area
- 79.9 km²
- Max. depth
- 73 m
- Altitude
- 518 m
- From Munich
- 1.3 hrs
Chiemsee: a lake in Chiemgau at 518 m, covering 79.9 km² and up to 73 m deep. At about 80 km², Chiemsee is Bavaria’s largest lake and is nicknamed the Bavarian Sea. Its islands hold a royal palace and a convent.
About Chiemsee
The lake sits between Munich and Salzburg with the Chiemgau Alps behind it. On Herreninsel, King Ludwig II had Herrenchiemsee Palace built from 1878, modelled on Versailles. Fraueninsel is home to fishing families and the Benedictine nuns of Frauenwörth Abbey; you can buy smoked fish directly from the fishermen. The third island, Krautinsel, is uninhabited.
Can you swim here?
Shallow sandy beaches lie at Chieming, Übersee-Feldwies and Seebruck, ideal for small children. Prien also has a leisure pool right on the lake. The open water can turn rough, so watch the storm warning lights.
Which walks are there?
The shoreline path runs for about 60 km and is especially popular with cyclists. On foot, try the Prien–Rimsting stretch, a walk around Fraueninsel, or the Kampenwand for a view over the entire lake.
- Kampenwand from the Top Station: 6 km, Moderate
How do you get there?
Prien am Chiemsee station lies on the Munich–Salzburg line. In summer the historic Chiemsee railway takes you to the Stock landing, where boats leave for the islands.
Towns on the shore: Prien, Gstadt, Seebruck, Chieming, Übersee. Travel time from Munich is a rough estimate by car or train. Area, depth and altitude from Wikipedia and Wikidata.
Frequently asked questions
How big is Chiemsee?
About 80 km², making it Bavaria’s largest lake.
How long does an island trip take?
Allow a full day for both islands. The palace alone takes three to four hours including crossing and tour.
Where is the best swimming?
The shallow beaches at Chieming and Übersee-Feldwies suit children best.
Can you cycle around Chiemsee?
Yes, the mostly flat shoreline route is about 60 km and easily done in a day.
