A Weekend in the Enchanted City of Füssen - Bavarian Alps Region

Embark on a captivating weekend escape in the enchanting city of Füssen, nestled in Germany's Bavarian Alps. Discover majestic castles, tranquil lakes, and the charming allure of the old town for an unforgettable experience.

Füssen, located in the Bavarian Alps, is a perfect getaway with its stunning castles, peaceful lakes, and charming old town. This time, we returned hoping to see the famous Neuschwanstein Castle again, but unfortunately, the weather didn’t really cooperate. It was so foggy that we could barely see the castle at all. Still, this place is just as magical, and we’re happy to share our experiences with you once more, adding the latest (and updated) details from our return trip.

Back in 2018, we first wrote about Füssen as the start of our blog. Thomas was living in Frankfurt, and I — Rafael, a snow lover (even though my skiing skills are questionable) — was looking for a winter escape. After considering our budget, we had decided to explore Bavaria, a beautiful region in southeastern Germany, close to the Austrian border. It was the perfect trip then, and now, after all these years, we’re excited to return and share our updated adventure with you!

General information

Füssen, tucked away in the beautiful Bavarian Alps, is a town that’s really special to us! We first visited in 2018 and immediately fell in love with its charming streets, colorful old town, and stunning mountain views. Füssen is also the southernmost town on the Romantic Road, a scenic route through Bavaria, making it a great starting point to explore the area.

Both times we’ve been there, Füssen’s beauty has left a lasting impression! On our first visit, we enjoyed wandering around the old town, and when we returned in 2025, the excitement was just as strong, even though the weather was foggy and the nearby castles were hidden. Despite the weather, Füssen’s charm and peaceful vibe were still unforgettable. The town is also famous for being so close to Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany, which we were eager to see again.

A fantastic perk of staying in Füssen is the Füssen Card (more details here). This card offers guests staying in local hotels free access to regional buses and exclusive discounts on various attractions. Whether you're wandering through the charming town, exploring the iconic castles, or immersing yourself in the stunning natural surroundings, Füssen ensures every visit is truly unforgettable.

History

Füssen's history dates back to Roman times when it was known as "Foetes". It was a key stop along the Via Claudia Augusta, a major road connecting Italy to the Danube River. Its strategic location near the Alpine passes made it an important center for trade and a vital military outpost. Over time, Füssen grew into a thriving settlement, benefiting from the movement of goods and people across the region.

In the Middle Ages, Füssen flourished as a market town and a center for craftsmanship, becoming especially famous for its violin-making. The town’s position along important trade routes helped it grow both economically and culturally. Merchants, artisans, and travelers passed through, bringing new ideas and influences that shaped Füssen’s development.

The Renaissance marked a cultural high point for Füssen, attracting artists, scholars, and musicians from across Europe. This period left a lasting imprint on the town’s architecture, with beautifully preserved medieval buildings and charming cobblestone streets that still stand today. Despite facing wars, fires, and economic hardships over the centuries, Füssen’s resilience and rich cultural heritage have endured. Today, it remains a beloved destination for visitors eager to explore its fascinating past and picturesque Alpine setting.

Best things to do

Experience the enchanting charm of Füssen's historic old town, a captivating fusion of bustling streets and peaceful hideaways waiting to be explored. Wander through the cobblestone pathways, from the charming Brunnengasse to the quaint Hutergasse, each corner offering a unique atmosphere. Don't forget to visit the iconic Reichenstrasse, Füssen’s main street, which is lined with vibrant buildings and colorful facades. Walking down these picturesque streets feels like stepping into a postcard, where every corner reveals a glimpse of the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Take your time to admire the hues of the buildings, and stop by the fountain, a central feature of the street, where you can pause and capture some beautiful photos to remember your visit.

The Museum of the City of Füssen offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s rich history, art, and culture. Housed in the former Benedictine Monastery of St. Mang, the museum showcases Füssen’s importance as a center for violin and lute making, with beautifully crafted instruments on display. Visitors can also explore exhibits on the monastery’s history, religious art, and daily life in Füssen over the centuries. Highlights include the ornate Baroque halls, the stunning Anna Chapel with its detailed frescoes, and the breathtaking view of the Lech River from the monastery courtyard. Whether you're interested in music, history, or architecture, this museum is a must-visit for a deeper understanding of Füssen’s heritage.

| Opening hours |

Fri. to Sun. - from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

| Admission - 6 EUR |

The Abbey of St. Mang is a remarkable building that was founded by St. Magnus in the 9th century. The abbey is known for its beautiful and balanced Baroque design, which is impressive. This design was created by the talented local architect Johann Jakob Herkomer, who studied in Venice and brought some Italian style to the abbey. But the Abbey of St. Mang isn’t just about looks – it played a big role in the history of Füssen. For centuries, it was a center of power, economy, culture, and faith, greatly influencing the town and the surrounding area. It’s a symbol of the region’s rich past and a must-see for anyone interested in its history and architecture.

The Church of the Holy Spirit, completed in 1748 by architect Franz Karl Fischer, is a beautiful example of Baroque and Rococo architecture. Known for its vibrant design, the church highlights the Holy Trinity. At the entrance, you’ll find statues of St. Florian, the patron saint of firefighters, and St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers, setting the tone for a peaceful and spiritual visit. Inside, the church is filled with stunning baroque frescoes and paintings that depict biblical scenes and religious figures in rich, colorful detail. The altar is intricately designed, and the chandeliers add a touch of elegance. Spend about thirty minutes exploring the church to truly appreciate the beautiful artwork, its peaceful atmosphere, and the history that surrounds it.

| Opening hours |

from 8.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

| Admission - free of charge |

Füssen High Castle (Hohes Schloss) is a medieval fortress that towers over the town, offering a glimpse into Füssen's past. Built in the 12th century, it was originally a residence for the bishops of Augsburg. Over the centuries, the castle has been expanded and renovated, giving it a mix of architectural styles. While it may not be as impressive as the castles located in nearby Schwangau, Füssen High Castle has its own charm and rich history to explore. The castle is home to impressive Romanesque and Gothic elements, with fascinating remnants of old Roman fortifications still visible.

Inside, you can wander through rooms filled with historical artifacts and art, including the branch gallery of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. The castle’s Fallturm (watchtower) provides spectacular panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas. The views are said to be especially beautiful and worth the visit. Unfortunately, when we visited in winter, it was closed. The castle’s courtyard features an array of illusion paintings that are sure to catch your eye. With its blend of history, art, and scenic views, Füssen High Castle is a must-visit stop for anyone exploring the town.

| Opening hours |

Fri. to Sun. - from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

| Admission - 6 EUR |

Other sights nearby

During our winter trips, we often bring sandwiches or snacks so we can make the most of the daylight and avoid long lunch breaks, allowing us to visit more places. There are plenty of options for a quick meal depending on how much time you have and how far you want to walk. We didn’t do everything in one day, but we’ll share some options for you to think about. We also took a few short lunch breaks at local bakeries to enjoy something delicious and rest for a bit.

About a 20-minute walk from Füssen’s old town, the Lechfall Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction. As you approach, enjoy views of the gorge shaped by the greenish-blue waters flowing from the Alps into the Lech River, which once powered Füssen’s industries and served as a key trade route. The waterfall features a five-stage dam built in the 18th century, guiding the rushing water through a narrow gorge before it flows into Forggensee Lake. With its mix of history and natural beauty, Lechfall is a must-visit spot.

NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE

Nestled in the beautiful Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle is the most famous sight in the region, with its fairy-tale look that captivates visitors. Back in 2018, we spent the whole day exploring the castle and its surroundings, and were amazed by its tall spires and stunning rooms, which showed the grandeur of Bavarian royalty. As we walked through the halls, we admired the amazing artwork and the fine details everywhere. When we stepped outside,  we admired the stunning views of the mountains and valleys, offering a peaceful moment to reflect. In 2025, having visited before, we spent only half a day there, but it was just as impressive as we remembered. Our visit to Neuschwanstein Castle is always a highlight of our trips, leaving us with great memories!

 | For more information about the Neuschwanstein Castle, check our post here |

TEGELBERG SKI STATION

Tegelberg is a beautiful destination near Füssen, offering stunning views of Neuschwanstein Castle and the Alps. The Tegelbergbahn cable car takes you up to the summit at 1,567 meters, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. A round-trip ticket costs 31 EUR. In the summer, hiking down the mountain is a great option for those wanting to take in the fresh mountain air. In the winter, when there’s snow (which wasn’t the case during our first visit), it transforms into a ski resort, making it a popular spot for skiing and snow activities.

FORGGENSEE LAKE

Forggensee Lake, just outside Füssen, is a beautiful spot with stunning views of the mountains and Neuschwanstein Castle. It’s easy to reach from the town center, either by a 30-minute walk or bus 56. The lake offers activities like boat trips, bike tours, and hiking trails, making it a great place to visit, especially in the summer. During our 2018 visit, we enjoyed the views despite cloudy weather, but in 2025, the fog was so thick we couldn’t see anything. Even so, it was still a peaceful place, and we’re excited to return on a clearer day to fully experience the scenery.

Travel essentials

GETTING THERE

Füssen is easy to reach from other major cities in Germany, making travel simple and convenient:

• By plane: Munich Airport is the closest major airport to Füssen, located about 160 km away. The drive takes approximately 2 hours by car. Alternatively, you can take a train from Munich to Füssen, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours with a transfer in Buchloe.
• By train: You can take a comfortable 2-hour train ride from Munich, with tickets costing around 22 EUR for a one-way trip. You can also buy a Bavarian Regional Card, which offers unlimited train travel within Bavaria for one day. The card costs 25 EUR for the first passenger and 3 EUR for each additional passenger, making it a great deal for exploring the area.
• By bus: If you want to enjoy the beautiful Bavarian countryside, you can take a 4-hour bus ride from Munich to Füssen. Tickets are about 15 EUR for a one-way trip, making it a budget-friendly and scenic option.

Thanks to Germany's excellent transport system, Füssen is easy to get to from any major city. No matter how you travel, the journey to Füssen will be just as enjoyable as the destination.

STAYING THERE

Accommodation in Füssen can be pricey, with few hostel options, and while Schwangau may seem more affordable, it lacks Füssen’s charm and convenience. Back in 2018, we stayed at Old Kings Hostel for budget reasons, spending three nights in a cozy double room for 150 EUR. It had a great location in the old town but limited facilities, with no kitchen and only one toilet and two showers for guests. In 2025, we opted for more comfort at Villa Fantasia Budget Boutique Hotel, a charming hotel just a short walk from the city center, where we paid around 120 EUR per night for a more stylish and comfortable stay.

EATING THERE

Enjoy the variety of food that Füssen has to offer, with choices from classic German dishes to international flavors:

• Ritter-stub'n: Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of German cuisine at this traditional restaurant, where the dishes are not only delicious but also served in generous portions.
• Restaurant Ludwigs: Delight in the traditional flavors of Bavaria at this esteemed restaurant, renowned for its authentic Bavarian dishes and welcoming ambiance.
• Pizza Pasta Americano: Satisfy your cravings for Italian flavors at this cozy pizza place, offering tasty pizzas at affordable prices.
• KYŌDAI: Immerse yourself in Japanese flavors at this unique dining spot, offering a taste of Japan in the heart of Füssen.

Whether you're craving traditional German food, international dishes, or something in between, Füssen has plenty of dining options to fit every taste and budget.

final thoughts

Our time in Füssen, both during our first visit and again in 2025, has been incredible! Nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, Füssen continues to charm us with its medieval old town, stunning views, and the fairy-tale beauty of Neuschwanstein Castle. Whether it was strolling through the historic streets or experiencing the magic of the nearby castles, every moment felt special. The town’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere have left a lasting impression on us, and we already can’t wait to return to explore even more of this beautiful part of Germany!

And now it's your turn to let us know your impressions, thoughts and also tips to visit this region of Germany. Have you already been to Füssen? We look forward to reading your comments in the section below.

Tags: Germany