Prien am Chiemsee

Prien am Chiemsee is a market municipality situated on the western shore of Lake Chiemsee in Bavaria, positioned at about 533 meters elevation and surrounded by Upper Bavarian foothills. The town stretches along the waterfront with a harbor from which boats and ferries depart to reach the lake islands.

The settlement traces back to Celtic origins, with its name deriving from Brigenna, an ancient river flowing from the mountains. The community evolved over centuries as a transport hub connecting the Alpine region to the northern lowlands.

The municipality holds certification as a Kneipp spa resort, where visitors can experience water-based healing practices rooted in traditional German wellness methods. This wellness approach shapes the town's character and draws those seeking restoration and health.

Regular train connections link the town to Munich and Salzburg, while the Chiemsee railway provides direct access to the harbor during summer months. The town center lies close to the waterfront, making it easy to reach the harbor for boat trips to the lake islands.

The town functions as the primary gateway to Herreninsel island, which houses a royal palace modeled after Versailles and open for public visits. This palace ranks among the most striking structures in the region and draws many visitors specifically to experience it.

Location: Rosenheim

Elevation above the sea: 533 m

Shares border with: Bernau am Chiemsee, Frasdorf, Riedering, Rimsting, Chiemsee

Website: https://prien.de

GPS coordinates: 47.85417,12.34555

Latest update: December 6, 2025 21:23