Füssen, Germany ()
Located around two hours from both Stuttgart and Munich, the enchanting city of Füssen offers a romantic winter wonderland or dreamy summertime getaway for those looking for a quick trip. Whether you are craving an outdoor adventure on a pair of skis or wanting to relax in this charming Bavarian town, Füssen has you covered.
Enchanting castles
Füssen is situated on the southern tip of Germany’s Romantic Road and is the final destination of this 400-kilometer holiday route that begins in Würzburg. One reason this city has a romantic feeling about it is its location next to a number of magnificent structures, including Hohenschwangau Castle, Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace. Technically, Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein are within walking distance—that is, if you want to get a nice workout hiking up to these magical locales. You could also drive the three or four kilometers to these bucket-list destinations so you can feel like you are living in a Disney love story. Another place worth a quick jaunt is the Wieskirche, a UNESCO world cultural heritage site that was designed in the Rococo style in the nearby town of Steingaden, a ten-minute drive away.
Awe-inspiring scenery
Another reason Füssen is suited for a romantic getaway is the beautiful scenery that is sure to take your breath away. The city is located on the edge of the Alps, providing stunning backdrops for all of your plans. This city is also surrounded by a number of lovely lakes, including Lake Forggensee and Lake Bannwaldsee, picturesque spots to visit for a walk in the winter or a picnic in the spring. In the warmer months, visitors can take boat trips on the lake, in addition to other water sports. Part of the Allgäu region, Füssen also claims the status of being the highest town in Bavaria, 1,200 meters above sea level. With its location right next to the border, you could even make an adventure of hiking to Austria—only about 25 minutes from the central train station.
With easy access to such exciting terrain, there is no shortage of outdoor activities for tourists to explore such as hiking, cycling, mountain biking, paragliding, swimming and sailing. Füssen has 125 kilometers of hiking paths, including a 20-minute hike to the Lechfall waterfall, connected to the River Lech that runs through the city. You can also find great downhill skiing opportunities at Tegelberg and Breitenberg peaks.
Füssen’s Old Town
A visit to the Old Town will provide you opportunities to explore its history, get a taste of the local cuisine and enjoy amazing views from the charms of heart of the city. Visit the High Palace, the best-preserved late-Gothic castle complex, as well as the 8th-century St. Mang’s Benedictine Monastery. Both places offer art and historical museums, in addition to the Füssen Heritage Museum, which celebrates Füssen’s long history with the musical instrument industry as a leader in lute and violin making.
Depending on when you visit, you might even be able to catch the musical “Ludwig²,” a fun way to learn about the illustrious Bavarian King Ludwig II, known for his creation of Neuschwanstein Castle.
