Ten picturesque small towns in Germany
- The editorial team
- May 20
- 20 min read
Updated: Jun 3
History whispers from half-timbered walls, cobblestone lanes wind through centuries, and the pace of life encourages you to stop and stare. Forget the rush; to capture Germany's authentic charm and undeniable beauty, look to its most picturesque small towns.
Here are ten gems that promise a visit and an immersion into scenes you thought only existed in postcards.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bavaria
Stepping into Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an almost surreal experience; it feels less like a living town and more like a perfectly preserved medieval film set. This exceptionally well-preserved walled town, a highlight of the Romantic Road, enchants visitors with its labyrinthine alleys, historic squares, and ramparts, offering breathtaking views. Every corner turned reveals another picture-postcard vista of crooked houses adorned with colourful window boxes, inviting you to explore further into its storied past.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Walk the historic Town Walls: Circumnavigating the entire town atop its intact medieval walls provides a unique perspective. You'll pass numerous towers, each with history, and gain panoramic views over the charming rooftops and outwards towards the Tauber Valley. It's a fantastic way to orientate yourself and appreciate the town's defensive past.
Visit the Plönlein: This iconic spot, featuring a small triangular square with a picturesque half-timbered house and two branching streets leading to different towers (Siebers Tower and Kobolzeller Tower), is perhaps the most photographed view in Rothenburg. It perfectly encapsulates the town's storybook appeal and is a truly unmissable photo opportunity.
Explore the Medieval Crime and Justice Museum: Housed in a former Dominican church, this museum offers a fascinating, albeit sometimes grim, insight into law and order during the Middle Ages. Exhibits include instruments of torture and punishment, historical documents, and legal texts, providing a compelling look at societal norms and justice systems of the past.
Climb the Rathausturm: For the most spectacular views over Rothenburg and the surrounding countryside, brave the climb up the narrow staircase of the Town Hall Tower. The effort is richly rewarded with a stunning 360-degree panorama of the red roofs, towers, and defensive walls that define the town's skyline.
Indulge in a "Schneeball": This local pastry, translated as "snowball," is a traditional sweet treat made from shortcrust pastry strips formed into a ball, deep-fried, and typically dusted with powdered sugar or covered in chocolate or other glazes. It's a simple pleasure and a culinary must-try while wandering the streets.
Browse the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Shop: This immense shop is a Christmas wonderland outside the festive season. Filled with countless ornaments, decorations, and traditional German Christmas items, it's a place of pure festive joy and a popular stop for visitors, showcasing the country's rich Christmas traditions.
Take the Night Watchman's Tour: An atmospheric and highly entertaining way to experience Rothenburg's history after dark. Led by a costumed guide portraying the historical night watchman, the tour winds through the dimly lit streets, sharing tales and historical anecdotes about medieval life, crime, and the watchman's duties with wit and charm.
Getting There
Rothenburg ob der Tauber is reached by regional trains, often requiring changes in towns like Steinach. Driving is a popular option, especially as part of a Romantic Road itinerary. Nuremberg (NUE) and Stuttgart (STR) are the nearest major airports.
Nearby Larger City
Nuremberg is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car.
The Small Print
The town can become crowded during peak tourist season and the famous Christmas market period. Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon offers a much more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.
Cochem, Rhineland-Palatinate
Nestled gracefully in a loop of the Moselle River, Cochem is a town straight out of a romantic painting. It is utterly dominated by the majestic Reichsburg Castle, perched high on a vineyard-clad hill above. The town below is a delightful jumble of traditional half-timbered houses, quaint squares, and a lively promenade alongside the river. The surrounding landscape of steep vineyards and rolling hills adds to its dramatic beauty, making it a jewel of the Moselle Valley.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Tour the majestic Reichsburg Castle: The extensively restored Reichsburg Castle is the centrepiece of Cochem. A guided tour shows medieval life and the castle's colourful history. The views from the castle grounds over the town and the Moselle River are breathtaking and well worth the uphill walk or shuttle ride.
Take a leisurely boat trip on the Moselle River: Seeing Cochem and the surrounding valley from the water provides a different perspective on its beauty. Various boat trips are available, from short scenic cruises offering views of the castle and vineyards to longer excursions to neighbouring villages, allowing you to relax and soak in the picturesque landscape.
Stroll through the charming Old Town: Cochem's Old Town is a delight to explore on foot. Wander through the narrow, winding streets, admire the beautifully preserved half-timbered buildings, and spend time in the historic market square (Marktplatz) with its Baroque town hall and charming fountains.
Ride the chairlift up to the Pinner Kreuz: For unparalleled, elevated views of Cochem, the Reichsburg Castle, and the sweeping Moselle valley, take the chairlift up to the Pinner Kreuz viewpoint. It's an easy and rewarding way to capture the scale and beauty of the area from above.
Visit the historic Mustard Mill: Learn about the traditional production of mustard at Cochem's historic mustard mill. You can see the old machinery in action, understand the process, and, of course, sample and purchase a variety of artisanal mustards. It's a quirky and enjoyable stop for foodies.
Sample local Moselle wines at a traditional Straußwirtschaft: The Moselle Valley is renowned for its Riesling wines. Look out for a Straußwirtschaft, a seasonal wine tavern often run by winemakers, typically identified by a bush (Strauß) hung outside. Here, you can sample local wines directly from the producer in a relaxed and authentic atmosphere, often accompanied by simple, regional food.
Explore the Bundesbank Bunker: Discover a fascinating piece of modern history by visiting the former secret bunker of the German central bank, hidden near Cochem during the Cold War. A guided tour reveals the subterranean vault where emergency currency was stored, offering a unique and intriguing insight into a tense period of history.
Getting There
Cochem is easily accessible by rail, particularly from Koblenz. Driving along the Moselle is scenic but can involve narrow, winding roads. The nearest major airports include Frankfurt (FRA) and the smaller Frankfurt-Hahn (HHN).
Nearby Larger City
Koblenz is approximately 45 minutes away by train.
The small print
Cochem is an excellent base for exploring other charming towns and vineyards along the Moselle River. Hiking and cycling trails abound in the surrounding hills and along the riverbanks.
Quedlinburg, Saxony-Anhalt
A designated UNESCO World Heritage site, Quedlinburg in the Harz Mountains is a remarkably well-preserved example of a European medieval town. Its cobbled streets are lined with an astonishing collection of over 2,000 half-timbered houses, dating from different centuries and showcasing a variety of architectural styles. Overlooked by its imposing collegiate church and castle on a sandstone cliff, Quedlinburg exudes a sense of history and fairytale charm around every corner.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Explore the Old Town with its half-timbered houses: Simply wandering through Quedlinburg's Old Town is a key highlight. The sheer density and variety of half-timbered buildings, many beautifully restored and dating back to the 14th century, create an unparalleled historical atmosphere. Get lost in the narrow alleys and discover hidden courtyards.
Visit the Collegiate Church of St. Servatius and the Church Treasure: Perched on the Schlossberg (Castle Hill); this Romanesque church is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and a significant pilgrimage site. The Domschatz (church treasurer) houses a substantial collection of medieval artefacts, including precious manuscripts, ivory carvings, and reliquaries.
Wander through the Schlossberg complex: Beyond the collegiate church, the Schlossberg is home to the Renaissance castle, built on the foundations of earlier structures. Exploring the castle grounds offers further historical insights and elevates views over the town and the surrounding Harz landscape.
Discover the Fachwerkmuseum im Ständerbau: Located in one of Quedlinburg's oldest half-timbered houses (a Ständerbau construction from the 14th century), this museum provides fascinating insights into the history and techniques of half-timbered building, explaining how these remarkable structures were created and have survived for centuries.
Walk up the Münzenberg Hill: Opposite the Schlossberg, the more minor Münzenberg Hill was once home to a community of nuns. Today, it offers a different, equally picturesque perspective of the Schlossberg ensemble and the town below, particularly beautiful in the soft light of morning or evening.
Ride the historic Harz Narrow Gauge Railway: While the central station is a short distance away inAlexisbad or Gernrode, Quedlinburg is a great starting point for experiencing the romantic steam trains of the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway network. These historic trains offer nostalgic journeys through the scenic Harz Mountains, including the route up to the Brocken peak.
Enjoy a coffee and cake in one of the atmospheric cafes: After exploring the historic streets, relax in one of Quedlinburg's many charming cafes. Many are located in beautifully restored half-timbered buildings, offering a cosy atmosphere to enjoy traditional German pastries and coffee while soaking in the town's ambience.
Getting There
Quedlinburg is accessible by regional train, with connections from major cities like Magdeburg and Halle. Driving is also a convenient option. The nearest major airports are Leipzig/Halle (LEJ) and Hanover (HAJ).
Nearby Larger City
Magdeburg is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away by train.
The small print
Quedlinburg is an excellent base for exploring the wider Harz region. It is known for its hiking trails, legends (particularly about witches on the Brocken), and other historic towns like Goslar and Wernigerode.
Monschau, North Rhine-Westphalia
Nestled deep within a narrow valley in the Eifel region, close to the Belgian border, Monschau is a hidden gem that feels wonderfully secluded. The Rur River tumbles through the heart of the town, winding past tightly packed, slate-roofed, half-timbered houses that appear to clamber up the steep hillsides surrounding it. This unique topography gives Monschau a captivating, almost theatrical, appearance, particularly when viewed from above.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town: Exploring Monschau's Old Town on foot is the best way to appreciate its unique layout and architecture. The streets are narrow and often winding, revealing charming squares, small bridges over the Rur, and picturesque facades at every turn.
Visit the Rotes Haus: This impressive building, a former residence and headquarters of the Scheibler family of textile merchants, is now a museum offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of wealthy merchants in the 18th century. The beautifully preserved interior showcases exquisite furniture, textiles, and decorative arts.
Explore the ruins of Monschau Castle: Overlooking the town from a hilltop, the ruins of Monschau Castle add to the romantic skyline. While essentially ruined, exploring the remaining walls and towers offers a sense of the castle's former scale and provides excellent vantage points for photos of the town below. It also hosts events and a youth hostel.
Discover the historic Mustard Mill (Senfmühle): Monschau has a long tradition of mustard production. Visit the landmark mustard mill to learn about the traditional methods still used today. You can see the millstones grinding and, of course, sample a variety of their delicious and often uniquely flavoured mustards.
Enjoy views of the town from higher vantage points: Due to its valley location, Monschau is particularly photogenic when viewed from above. Several viewpoints are accessible via walking trails or roads leading up the surrounding hillsides, such as the unrestricted view from the Haller, offering stunning panoramic vistas of the town and the valley.
Hike or cycle in the surrounding Eifel National Park: Monschau is a gateway to the beautiful Eifel National Park, known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, moors, and river valleys. Numerous well-marked hiking and cycling trails start near Monschau, offering opportunities to explore the region's tranquil beauty.
Sample local specialities like Printen: The Aachen and Eifel regions are known for Printen, a type of gingerbread or spiced biscuit that is often harder and less sweet than typical gingerbread. Look for local bakeries in Monschau selling fresh Printen, a delicious and traditional regional treat.
Getting There
Monschau has no train station in the town centre and is best reached by car or bus from nearby towns. Cologne Bonn (CGN) and Düsseldorf (DUS) are the nearest major airports.
Nearby Larger City
Aachen is approximately 40 minutes away by car.
The Small Print
Monschau is particularly popular during its Christmas market, which takes advantage of the town's festive appearance. The surrounding Eifel region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bacharach, Rhineland-Palatinate
Nestled in the dramatic landscape of the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Bacharach embodies the romance of the Rhine. Guarded by the imposing Stahleck Castle on the hillside above and surrounded by steep vineyards, the town is a delightful collection of medieval half-timbered houses, ancient gates, and the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the Gothic Werner Chapel. It's a place where history and legend are deeply intertwined with the vine-clad slopes.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Walk through the town gates and along parts of the old town walls: Enter Bacharach through one of its preserved medieval gates and explore sections of the old town walls. These ancient fortifications offer a glimpse into the town's defensive past and provide charming views over the rooftops and streets within the walls.
Hike up to Stahleck Castle: The uphill walk to Stahleck Castle is rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Bacharach, the Rhine River, and the surrounding vineyards. The castle, largely rebuilt and now serving as a popular youth hostel, retains its medieval origins and strategic importance.
Explore the ruins of Werner Chapel: These striking Gothic ruins, dedicated to the young Werner of Oberwesel, who became a focus of a medieval blood libel accusation against Jews, stand as a powerful and poignant historical monument. The intricate stone tracery of the remains is beautiful, albeit with a sombre history.
Visit the Posthof, a beautiful half-timbered courtyard: Tucked away in the town, the Posthof is an excellent example of Bacharach's half-timbered architecture. This picturesque courtyard offers a tranquil spot to admire the craftsmanship of these historic buildings and imagine life in centuries past.
Take a boat cruise on the Rhine to see castles and the Lorelei rock: Bacharach's location in the most dramatic section of the Rhine Valley makes it an ideal starting point for a river cruise. Sail past countless castles perched on hillsides, charming riverside villages, and the legendary Lorelei rock, experiencing the landscape that has inspired poets and artists for centuries.
Sample local Riesling wines at a winery: The steep slopes around Bacharach are covered in vineyards, producing excellent Riesling wines. Visit a local winery (Weingut) for a tasting (Weinprobe) to experience the distinct mineral character of the wines from this region. Many offer tours of their cellars and vineyards.
Stroll along the Rhine promenade: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank promenade. Watch the boat traffic on the Rhine, admire the views of the hills and vineyards on the opposite bank, and simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic waterway.
Getting There
Bacharach has its own train station, making it easily accessible via the scenic Rhine Valley railway line, which has frequent services from Koblenz, Bingen, and Mainz. Driving along the B9 road beside the Rhine is also picturesque. The nearest major airport is Frankfurt (FRA).
Nearby Larger City
Mainz is approximately 50 minutes away by train.
The small print
Bacharach is a perfect base for exploring other charming towns and castles in the UNESCO World Heritage section of the Rhine Valley. The hiking trails through the vineyards offer stunning views.
Dinkelsbühl, Bavaria
Often cited as a quieter, equally beautiful alternative to Rothenburg, Dinkelsbühl is another gem on Germany's Romantic Road that feels wonderfully untouched by time. Encased within its complete medieval wall, the town presents a vibrant spectacle of colourful half-timbered buildings, cobbled streets, and imposing defensive towers. Its harmonious architecture and relaxed atmosphere offer a truly immersive medieval experience without the sometimes overwhelming crowds.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Walk the complete circuit of the town walls: Similar to Rothenburg, Dinkelsbühl boasts an entirely intact medieval town wall, which you can walk along for much of its length. This elevated pathway provides excellent views into the town's heart and outwards over the surrounding landscape, offering a comprehensive perspective of the town's historical fortifications.
Admire the architecture in the Weinmarkt square: The Weinmarkt (Wine Market) is arguably Dinkelsbühl's most picturesque square. It's surrounded by stunningly preserved, brightly coloured half-timbered houses, including the impressive Deutsches Haus, considered one of Germany's most beautiful half-timbered buildings. It's a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.
Visit St. George's Minster: This impressive late Gothic church dominates the skyline. Step inside to admire its soaring vaulted ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and elaborate altar. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of the Minster are a testament to the town's historical wealth and importance.
Climb the tower of St. George's Minster: For panoramic views over Dinkelsbühl and the surrounding countryside, ascend the tower of St. George's Minster. From here, you can fully appreciate the layout of the walled town and the patchwork of fields beyond. The climb offers fantastic photo opportunities on the colourful rooftops.
Explore the Stadtmuseum in the Old Town Hall: Housed in the historic Old Town Hall, the Stadtmuseum (Town Museum) provides insights into Dinkelsbühl's history, including its medieval past, the Thirty Years' War, and local life. It's a good way to gain context for the historical buildings you see throughout the town.
Experience the Kinderzeche festival (if visiting in July): If your visit coincides with mid-July, don't miss the Kinderzeche. This historical pageant commemorates the town's alleged salvation during the Thirty Years' War by its children. It's a vibrant and unique local tradition featuring historical costumes, parades, and re-enactments.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by simply wandering the streets: One of the greatest pleasures in Dinkelsbühl is merely taking your time to walk the quiet streets and alleys. Discover hidden corners, admire the intricate details of the half-timbered facades, and enjoy the remarkably preserved medieval ambience away from the busiest tourist routes.
Getting There
Dinkelsbühl is best accessed by car, particularly if travelling the Romantic Road. It has no train station; the nearest is Ansbach or Dombühl, requiring a bus connection. Nuremberg (NUE) and Stuttgart (STR) are the nearest major airports.
Nearby Larger City
Ansbach is approximately 40 minutes away by car.
The Small Print
Dinkelsbühl's complete ring of fortifications and colourful buildings makes it exceptionally photogenic. Compared to some of the more famous Romantic Road towns, it offers a slightly more relaxed and less commercialised experience.
Meersburg, Baden-Württemberg
Gracefully situated on the northern shore of Lake Constance (Bodensee), Meersburg offers a captivating blend of medieval history and stunning lakeside scenery. The town is dramatically built on a hillside, with its imposing 'Old Castle' (Burg Meersburg) and the Baroque 'New Castle' (Neues Schloss) presiding over the lower town and the ferry harbour. The views across the vast expanse of Lake Constance towards the distant Swiss Alps are simply breathtaking.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Tour the historic Burg Meersburg: As one of Germany's oldest inhabited castles, the Burg Meersburg offers a fascinating journey through medieval life. Explore its towers, knights' hall, dungeons, and living quarters, gaining insights into centuries of history within its ancient walls. The views from the ramparts are superb.
Visit the opulent Meersburg New Castle (Neues Schloss): A stark contrast to the medieval Old Castle, the New Castle is a magnificent Baroque residence. Tour the state rooms, ballrooms, and the impressive staircase designed by Balthasar Neumann, experiencing the grandeur and elegance of the 18th century. The terrace offers fantastic views over the lake.
Stroll along the picturesque lakeside promenade: The promenade in the lower town is a lively and beautiful place to wander. Enjoy views of the lake, the boats in the harbour, and the charming buildings lining the shore. Numerous cafes and restaurants spill onto the promenade, perfect for enjoying the lakeside atmosphere.
Explore the vineyards above the town and sample local wines: The hillsides behind Meersburg are covered in vineyards, producing excellent wines, particularly Müller-Thurgau and Pinot Noir. Walk through the vineyards for lovely views, and consider visiting a local winery (Weingut) for a tasting (Weinprobe) to sample the regional produce.
Take a ferry across Lake Constance: Meersburg is a central ferry hub on Lake Constance. Take a ferry ride to the island of Mainau (famous for its gardens), across the lake to the German city of Konstanz, or even to Switzerland. It's a great way to see the lake and visit nearby attractions.
Wander through the charming upper and lower parts of the town: Meersburg is essentially split into an upper town around the castles and a lower town by the lake. Explore both areas, connected by steep paths and staircases. The upper town has a more medieval feel, while the lower town is lively with its harbour and promenade.
Visit the Zeppelin Museum in nearby Friedrichshafen: Easily accessible by ferry or bus from Meersburg, the Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen is a must for anyone interested in the history of these airships, which were built here. It houses the world's largest exhibition on Zeppelin history, including a partial reconstruction of the Hindenburg.
Getting There
Meersburg doesn't have its own train station. The nearest stations are in Friedrichshafen or Konstanz, from where you can take a bus or ferry. Driving is straightforward, with parking available. The nearest major airports are Friedrichshafen (FDH), Memmingen (FMM), and Zurich (ZRH) in Switzerland.
Nearby Larger City
Konstanz is approximately 20 minutes away by ferry or bus.
The Small Print
Meersburg is a popular holiday destination year-round. In summer, it offers swimming and water sports; in winter, it has a festive atmosphere. Its location makes it easy to explore attractions around Lake Constance.
Wernigerode, Saxony-Anhalt
Often affectionately called the "Colourful City in the Harz," Wernigerode lives up to its moniker with a vibrant display of beautifully preserved half-timbered houses painted in cheerful hues. Presiding over the town from a hill is the stunning Wernigerode Castle, a romantic, multi-turreted structure that seems to have flown in from a fairytale. Wernigerode offers a perfect blend of historic charm and beauty on the Harz Mountains' edge.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Visit Wernigerode Castle: This magnificent castle, rebuilt in the 19th century in a romantic style, is the town's most prominent landmark. Tour the opulent interiors, including the staterooms and chapel, and explore the grounds. The views from the castle terrace over Wernigerode and the Harz are superb.
Explore the historic Market Square with the ornate Town Hall: The Market Square is the heart of Wernigerode's Old Town and a true architectural gem. The elaborately decorated Gothic Town Hall, with its two towers and carved wooden facade, is particularly striking and serves as a focal point for the square, which is surrounded by picturesque half-timbered buildings.
Wander through the charming narrow streets like the Breite Straße: Lose yourself in the maze of narrow, winding roads in Wernigerode's Old Town. The Breite Straße is particularly famous for its colourful half-timbered houses, many dating back centuries. Every turn reveals a new photogenic scene of crooked walls and decorative carvings.
See the smallest house in Wernigerode: Located on Kochstraße, this tiny, charming house is a quirky point of interest. Despite its diminutive size, it was once inhabited and is a testament to historical living conditions and architectural ingenuity in tight spaces. It's a popular spot for a quick photo.
Ride the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway steam train up to Brocken Mountain: Wernigerode is a major station on the historic Harz Narrow Gauge Railway network. Take a nostalgic journey on a steam train through the scenic Harz Mountains, ascending to the summit of Brocken, the highest peak known for its panoramic views and Brocken spectre legend.
Visit the Museum of Culture and History (Harzmuseum): Housed in a former granary, this museum offers insights into the history and culture of Wernigerode and the surrounding Harz region. Exhibits cover local history, geology, mining, and the unique flora and fauna of the Harz Mountains, providing context for the area's heritage.
Enjoy hiking or exploring the surrounding Harz Mountains: Wernigerode is an excellent starting point for outdoor activities in the Harz National Park. Numerous well-marked hiking trails lead directly from the town into the surrounding forests and hills, offering opportunities for gentle strolls or more challenging hikes with rewarding views.
Getting There
Wernigerode is accessible by regional train, connecting to cities like Magdeburg and Hanover. Driving is straightforward. Hanover (HAJ) and Leipzig/Halle (LEJ) are the nearest major airports.
Nearby Larger City
Brunswick (Braunschweig) is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes away by car.
The Small Print
The Harz Narrow Gauge Railway is a major attraction and can be very popular, so booking tickets in advance is advisable, especially for the Brocken route. The town hosts various festivals throughout the year.
Füssen, Bavaria
Nestled at the southern end of the Romantic Road, against a dramatic backdrop of the Bavarian Alps, Füssen is a charming town most famous for its proximity to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. Yet, Füssen is a picturesque destination in its own right, boasting a colourful medieval Old Town, the impressive High Palace (Hohes Schloss), and a beautiful location on the Lech River. It serves as a perfect blend of alpine scenery and historical charm.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Visit the Hohes Schloss (High Palace): This former summer residence of the Bishops of Augsburg is a striking building with an impressive facade adorned with illusionistic paintings (Trompe-l'œil). Explore the palace's courtyards and the staterooms (now housing a branch of the Bavarian State Picture Collection), and enjoy views from its elevated position.
Walk through the charming pedestrian zone and admire the painted buildings: Füssen's pedestrian zone is a delight to explore. Many buildings here are decorated with Lüftlmalerei, the traditional Bavarian fresco painting art depicting historical scenes, religious motifs, or everyday life. It adds a vibrant and distinctly Bavarian character to the streets.
See the former Benedictine monastery of St. Mang's Abbey: Located by the Lech River, St. Mang's Abbey is a significant historical complex. While parts are now the town museum, the Baroque abbey church, with its stunning interiors, is particularly worth visiting. The complex reflects Füssen's long religious and cultural history.
Stroll along the Lech River: The clear, turquoise waters flow through Füssen, adding to its scenic appeal. A walk along the riverbanks offers lovely views of the town, the High Palace, and the surrounding mountains. The Lech Falls and the high bridge are also nearby points of interest.
Explore the nearby castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau: No visit to Füssen is complete without visiting the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein (the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle) and Hohenschwangau. Located a short distance from Füssen, these palaces of King Ludwig II are set in a breathtaking landscape. Book tickets well in advance, as they are incredibly popular.
Hike in the surrounding Alps or around the local lakes: Füssen is a gateway to fantastic hiking opportunities in the Bavarian Alps. Trails range from leisurely strolls around nearby lakes like the Forggensee or Alpsee to more challenging mountain hikes. The scenery of lakes and mountains is truly spectacular.
Visit the Museum of Füssen: Housed within the former St. Mang's Abbey, the Museum of Füssen provides insights into the town's history. It focuses particularly on the art of violin and lute making, for which Füssen was historically renowned. The museum also includes the impressive Baroque halls of the former abbey.
Getting There
Füssen has a train station with regular direct connections to Munich, making train travel convenient. Driving is also easy and offers flexibility for exploring the surrounding region. Memmingen (FMM) and Munich (MUC) are the nearest major airports.
Nearby Larger City
Augsburg is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away by train.
The Small Print
Füssen is the southern terminus of the Romantic Road. The castles are incredibly popular, so arriving early or booking guided tours well in advance is essential to avoid long queues.
Lindau, Bavaria
Possessing one of the most distinctive settings of any German town, Lindau is uniquely located on an island in the eastern part of Lake Constance (Bodensee), connected to the mainland by a road bridge and a railway causeway. Its picturesque harbour entrance, guarded by the Bavarian Lion sculpture and the New Lighthouse, is an iconic image of Lake Constance. The island Old Town is a delightful labyrinth of medieval streets, historic buildings, and charming squares, all set against the stunning backdrop of the lake and the distant Alps.
Seven Must-Sees and Dos
Walk around the picturesque harbour entrance: The harbour is Lindau's crown jewel. Stroll along the promenade and admire the impressive New Lighthouse and the majestic Bavarian Lion statue guarding the entrance. It's a bustling spot with ferry traffic, street performers, and fantastic views across the lake to the Alps.
Explore the medieval streets and squares of the island Old Town: Get lost in the enchanting network of narrow streets and historic squares that make up the island Old Town. Discover hidden passages, admire the decorated facades, and soak in the centuries of history embedded in the buildings. Highlights include the lively Maximilianstraße.
Visit the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus): This beautiful building is a focal point in the Old Town, with its elaborately painted facade depicting scenes from Lindau's history. The architecture is a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles and a popular spot for photos.
See St. Peter's Church: Originally a Romanesque basilica, St. Peter's Church is one of the oldest churches in the Lake Constance region. In the sacristy, impressive frescoes by Hans Holbein the Elder depict scenes from the Passion of Christ.
Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Constance: Lindau is a central hub for boat services on Lake Constance. Take a scenic cruise around the bay, take a ferry to other lakeside towns in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland, or take a longer excursion to places like the flower island of Mainau. It's an excellent way to appreciate the vastness of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.
Walk or cycle along the lakeside paths on the mainland: While the island is the main attraction, the mainland area of Lindau also offers beautiful lakeside paths perfect for walking or cycling. Enjoy views back towards the island skyline and experience the lake's tranquil beauty from a different perspective.
Relax by the lake and take in the views of the Alps: Find a spot by the water's edge, either on the island or the mainland, and simply relax. On a clear day, the views across Lake Constance to the snow-capped peaks of the Austrian and Swiss Alps are truly spectacular and provide a stunning backdrop to the town.
Getting There
Lindau-Insel train station is conveniently located on the island and has good connections to major German and Austrian cities. The island is also easily accessible by car via the road bridge. The nearest major airports are Friedrichshafen (FDH), Memmingen (FMM), and Zurich (ZRH) in Switzerland.
Nearby Larger City
Kempten is approximately 45 minutes away by train or car.
The Small Print
Lindau is a popular tourist destination, especially in summer, so it can get busy. The annual Nobel Laureate Meetings also take place here. Its location makes it an excellent base for exploring the entire Lake Constance region.
