Füssen

The castles are naturally the highlights when visiting Füssen. Visitors flock there in droves during summer to catch even a brief glimpse of the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle. Built by the famous architects Eduard Riedel and Georg von Dollmann, the castle towers over Füssen and provided the reclusive ruler King Ludwig II a retreat that suits the beautiful Alpine landscape. Since 1886, shortly after the tragic death of the fairytale king, the castle has been open to visitors and has attracted millions of guests annually.

Also, Hohenschwangau Castle is one of the most beautiful buildings in the region. Overlooking Alpsee and Schwansee, the castle housed King Maximilian II and his family during the summer months. The later King Ludwig II spent his childhood there and thus came to love the Allgäu region. The magnificent interiors transport visitors back in time and show how the royal family lived there. A look inside is worthwhile for culture enthusiasts! Both castles are a true spectacle from the outside and can be admired on a walk from Füssen.

The Füssen region offers more than ten bathing lakes. At the "Allgäuer Riviera" on Lake Hopfensee, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the Alpine peaks – and when the wind picks up, also one or another kite surfer. Lake Weissensee is also considered a good surfing area. Reserved exclusively for bathing fans are Bannwaldsee, Schwansee, Faulensee, and the hidden small lakes in the Faulenbacher Valley.

The Alpsee, located below Neuschwanstein Castle, was once swum by Bavarian King Ludwig II. Mysterious and the setting of a crime novel featuring the Allgäu cult detective Kluftinger is the deep Alatsee. Forggensee not only offers many beautiful bathing spots but also good sailing and surfing conditions. Those who get tired hiking or cycling the 32-kilometer-long Forggensee circuit can take one of the tour boats that operate daily to bring them home.

After the mandatory visit to the two castles, it is worth exploring the town center of Füssen. The old town radiates a Mediterranean flair in summer and invites you to stroll and enjoy a cappuccino or Aperol. The origins of the Füssen Old Town date back to the Roman era, then flourished under the glory of the two kings Maximilian I and Ludwig II into a thriving center. Through the city's alleys, you reach the High Castle, the former summer residence of the Prince-Bishops of Augsburg. Today, the branch gallery of the Bavarian State Painting Collection and the Municipal Gallery exhibit artworks there. Next, proceed to the Benedictine Monastery of St. Mang. On the banks of the Lech River, in the baroque complex originating from the 8th century, is now the Museum of the City of Füssen. Enjoy the magnificent view over the town of Füssen from the Franciscan Monastery – from here, the historic urban structure becomes visible. On the hill stands the High Castle as a secular power center, below it the Benedictine monastery of the clergy, and at the lowest level spread the residential houses last.