Just a short day trip from Munich lies a spectacular mountain landscape. This very region is closely intertwined with one of the greatest film icons of the 20th century. When you make your way to the Berchtesgadener Land, you’ll follow in the footsteps of Romy Schneider in Schönau am Königssee. The actress spent much of her childhood and youth here. In 1955, the legendary first “Sissi” classic was released. It was dubbed in over 71 countries and made her world-famous. Despite the hustle and bustle, she always loved returning to her mother’s house, Mariengrund. There, away from the stress of the film industry, she recharged her batteries. Today, a lovingly curated permanent exhibition at the Old Train Station in Königssee keeps her memory alive.
From the Mariengrund House to the Spotlight: The Life of Romy Schneider
The Schneider family’s deep connection to the region began as early as 1935, when Magda Schneider used her first film earnings to fulfill her dream of owning a property in the mountains. A few weeks after her birth in Vienna in 1938, Romy moved with her parents to Schönau, where she grew up with her brother Wolfi. Even when she attended the Goldenstein girls’ boarding school near Salzburg starting in 1949, the Berchtesgadener Land remained the center of her life. She remained registered as a resident of the town until she was 19. She repeatedly sought refuge here from film shoots and the spotlight.
A fascinating exhibition and the perfect backdrop for a day trip
In the historic Alter Bahnhof building, impressive treasures from private collections dedicated to Romy and Magda Schneider await you today. There, in addition to over 800 original movie stills, film posters, and awards, you’ll also discover the original costume from “The Girl in the Uniform.” In addition, family mementos are on display, such as drawings from the Goldenstein boarding school, contributed by Romy’s school friend, Sister Bernadette.
After your tour, the location right on the famous Königssee—with the Königsbach Falls—is the perfect spot to wind down the day by the emerald-green waters nestled between the steep rock faces. A picturesque stroll along the lakeside promenade perfectly rounds out your journey through time in Romy’s hometown.
All the important information for your visit
📍 Address: Seestraße 17, 83471 Schönau am Königssee-Königssee
🗓️ Opening hours vary by season. You can find more detailed information here.
🎟️ Admission: Adults €6.00, high school and college students €5.50, children ages 6–15 €4.00
ℹ️ You can find more information about the Romy Schneider exhibition here.
