Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive travel guide on Füssen, a charming town located in the heart of Bavaria, Germany. With its stunning natural scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Füssen is the perfect destination for travelers looking to explore a unique and unforgettable part of Germany. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the must-visit attractions, the best places to eat, and the top activities to do while in Füssen. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler looking to hike in the surrounding mountains, a history buff eager to explore the town’s medieval castles and churches, or a foodie looking to try some delicious local cuisine, Füssen has something for everyone. Ready to embark on a journey to one of Germany’s most beautiful destinations?
Let’s kick off by exploring how to get to Füssen:
Train Travel: Scenic Routes and Convenience
Getting to Füssen is a breeze with several convenient transportation options available. Whether you’re traveling from other parts of Germany or from overseas, there are plenty of ways to reach this charming town nestled in the heart of Bavaria. If you’re traveling by train, Füssen has its own train station that offers regular connections to other major cities in Germany, including Munich, Augsburg, and Innsbruck. The train journey to Füssen is a scenic one with picturesque views of the Bavarian countryside along the way. The train station is located in the heart of the town, making it easy to explore the area on foot once you arrive. Train tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
Bus Options: Direct Connections and Ease of Access
For those who prefer to travel by bus, there are several bus routes that serve Füssen from Munich. Buses run regularly to Füssen with a journey time of approximately two hours. Other major cities in Germany, such as Frankfurt and Stuttgart, also offer direct bus connections to Füssen. Bus tickets can also be purchased online or at the station.
Air Travel: Closest Airports and Transit Options
If you’re arriving by air, the closest airports to Füssen are Memmingen Airport and Munich Airport. Memmingen Airport is located approximately 80 kilometers away and offers direct flights to several European cities, including London, Dublin, and Barcelona. From the airport, you can take a train or bus to reach Füssen with a journey time of around 1.5 hours. Munich Airport is located approximately 160 kilometers away and is a major international airport with direct flights to destinations all over the world. From the airport, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to reach Füssen with a journey time of around two hours.
Driving: Accessibility via the A7 Motorway and Parking Facilities
For those who prefer to drive, Füssen is easily accessible via the A7 Motorway. If you’re driving from Munich, the journey takes approximately two hours, while from Frankfurt, it takes around four hours. There is ample parking available in and around Füssen, with several public car parks located in the town center. Regardless of how you choose to get to Füssen, the journey is sure to be a memorable one with stunning views of the Bavarian countryside and charming towns along the way. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or prefer more luxurious options, there are plenty of transportation options available to suit every traveler’s needs.
Exploring Füssen’s Treasures: Top Attractions and Activities
Füssen is a region filled with stunning natural beauty and fascinating historical sites. There are many attractions to explore in and around Füssen, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Here are some of the top things to do in Füssen:
Neuschwanstein Castle: Iconic Symbol of Romantic Architecture
Neuschwanstein Castle is perhaps one of the most famous attractions in Füssen. Built in the late 19th century by King Ludwig II, the castle is a stunning example of German romantic architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its fascinating history, as well as taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Hohenschwangau Castle: Royal Heritage and Stunning Gardens
Located just a short distance from Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau Castle is another must-see attraction in Füssen. Built in the 19th century, the castle was the childhood home of King Ludwig II and boasts beautiful interiors and gardens.
Lake Forggensee: Watersports and Scenic Hiking
Lake Forggensee is the fifth largest lake in Bavaria and is a popular destination for water sports and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking around the lake’s beautiful shoreline.
Tegelberg Cable Car: Panoramic Views of the Alpine Landscape
The Tegelberg Cable Car is a popular attraction in Füssen, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can take the cable car to the top of Tegelberg Mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the region.
Saint Mang’s Abbey: Cultural Insight and Architectural Beauty
Saint Mang’s Abbey is a beautiful monastery located in the heart of Füssen. Visitors can explore the abbey’s stunning architecture and learn about its rich history and cultural significance. Füssen is a must-visit destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts. The museum showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage with exhibits featuring everything from ancient Roman artifacts to modern art.
Old Town: Medieval Charm and Bavarian Hospitality
Old Town is a picturesque and charming town in southern Bavaria known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. The town is surrounded by the stunning Alps and features historic landmarks so visitors can stroll through the narrow streets, visit local museums, and enjoy traditional Bavarian cuisine.
Forgensee: Tranquil Retreat and Outdoor Recreation
Forgensee is a tranquil lake located just outside Füssen, surrounded by rolling hills and majestic mountains. Visitors can relax on the lake’s sandy beach, swim in its crystal clear waters, and enjoy a variety of water sports. The lake also offers scenic walking and biking paths as well as fishing opportunities.
Linderhof Palace: Opulence and Splendor Amidst Nature
Linderhof Palace is a grand and opulent palace located just outside of Füssen, built by King Ludwig II in the 19th century. The palace is known for its lavish Baroque and Rococo interiors, extensive gardens, and stunning fountains. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace’s ornate rooms, stroll through its manicured gardens, and witness the impressive water features.
Alpsee: Serene Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Alpsee is a picturesque lake located near Füssen, surrounded by lush forests and soaring mountains. Visitors can hike along the scenic trails that circle the lake, swim or paddle in its clear waters, or simply relax on its sandy beach. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing and offers stunning views of the Bavarian Alps.
Lechfall: Majestic Waterfalls and Natural Escapes
Lechfall is a stunning waterfall located on the Lech River in Füssen where the river drops over a series of rocky ledges and creates a dramatic cascade. Visitors can witness the power of the waterfall from several viewpoints, including a pedestrian bridge that spans the river. The area is surrounded by scenic parklands and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling town center.
Tips for Exploring Füssen’s Attractions
When visiting these attractions, it’s important to keep in mind that some of them require advanced booking or have limited opening hours, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Additionally, it’s important to wear appropriate footwear and clothing, especially when exploring the region’s mountain trails and natural areas. By taking the time to explore these top attractions, visitors to Füssen are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Important information:
- Better to buy a Deutschland ticket
- For train or bus directions you can use DB navigator apps (Deutschbahn)
- I was there in May and the temperature was 16 to 20 degrees Celcius.
- Despite the long lines for the horse carriage, you can opt for a leisurely hike