Fussen: Germany

· Travel team
Lykkers, welcome to a delightful journey through one of Bavaria’s most enchanting towns! Füssen, nestled among mountains, lakes, and rolling hills, awaits with its rich history, stunning architecture, and cozy atmosphere.
Let’s explore together everything Füssen has to offer, from historical gems to local flavors — all in a simple and fun way!
Füssen’s Fame and Unique Charm
Where Beauty Meets History
Füssen is renowned for its close proximity to Neuschwanstein Castle, one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. However, its appeal stretches far beyond.
With a history spanning over a thousand years, Füssen’s old town still preserves its medieval character, offering visitors a walk through time.
Strategic Crossroads
Located at the meeting point of four ancient routes — the river passage, the Romantic Road, the German Alpine Road, and the Via Claudia Augusta — Füssen has always been a crucial hub connecting northern Italy to Augsburg. This location brought prosperity and cultural significance that still shine today.
Main Sights and Attractions
The High Castle (Hohes Schloss)
Füssen’s High Castle stands as one of the best-preserved late Gothic architectural complexes in Germany. Originally a fortress from the 14th century, it was later expanded into a stunning castle with picturesque courtyards and beautiful trompe-l'œil frescoes.
The castle houses two art galleries featuring impressive Bavarian and Swabian masterpieces.
- Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Mondays)
- Entry Fee: Around €6 per adult, discounts available for students and groups.
St. Mang’s Monastery and Museum
The former Benedictine monastery of St. Mang holds a fascinating civic museum. It showcases Füssen’s history, ancient artifacts, and a special exhibition on the town’s musical craftsmanship. The splendid baroque interiors are well worth the visit.
- Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Approximately €6, combined tickets available with the High Castle.
Historic Old Town
Wander through Füssen’s charming pedestrian zone, lined with colorful houses, cozy cafés, and inviting shops. Don’t miss the Heilig-Geist-Spitalkirche, a beautiful building near the heart of the town, and the historical town hall.
Forggensee and Hopfensee Lakes
Nature lovers can relax by these two nearby lakes. Forggensee is perfect for boating and scenic cruises, while Hopfensee offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Musical Theater Neuschwanstein
Located on the shore of Forggensee, this theater hosts spectacular shows inspired by the region's legendary stories. Ticket prices usually start from €30, and performances vary throughout the year.
Füssen’s Rich Past
Golden Centuries
In the 15th and 16th centuries, Füssen flourished as an important trading depot between northern Italy and Augsburg. This economic boom is still reflected in the magnificent old town’s architecture and ambiance.
Music Craftsmanship
Füssen became the cradle of European lute and violin making. In 1562, the local craftsmen officially established their own guild, creating the oldest known regulations for instrument makers in Europe. The tradition is celebrated today with musical performances in the castle.
Memorable Art and Symbols
Inside St. Mang’s Monastery, the famous “Dance of Death” fresco by Jakob Hiebeler reminds viewers of life’s fragile nature. This striking artwork captures visitors' attention with its vivid, thought-provoking imagery.
Local Cuisine and Traditional Delights
Bavarian Flavors
Traditional cuisine in Füssen emphasizes hearty and flavorful ingredients. Expect dishes featuring potatoes, sauerkraut, and flavorful sausages. Among the must-try items:
- Weißwurst: A mild, white sausage served with sweet mustard.
- Haxen: A roasted shank often paired with fluffy potato dumplings, known as Knödel.
- Spätzle: Soft egg noodles often served with rich sauces.
- Maultaschen: Dumpling-style pockets filled with delicious savory mixtures.
Famous Baked Treat: Brezel
Brezel, commonly known elsewhere as pretzel, is a beloved snack or meal companion. Made from soft wheat flour, malt, yeast, and baking soda, and often topped with coarse salt or seeds, it’s a must-try. Prices for a fresh Brezel range from €1 to €2.50 at bakeries and cafés.
Satisfying Sweets
End your meal with a slice of Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte — the Black Forest Cake layered with whipped cream and cherries. This decadent dessert is a favorite across Germany.
Conclusion
Lykkers, Füssen is more than just a gateway to a famous castle — it’s a treasure trove of history, music, art, nature, and delicious food. Whether spending a full day or just a few hours, Füssen promises unforgettable memories with its welcoming atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and rich traditions. Ready for your next magical journey? Füssen is waiting!