Allgäu Travel Guide: Attractions and Places you need to see
Nestled in the south of Germany, the Allgäu region is a breathtaking mix of rolling hills, majestic Alps, and picturesque villages. Famous for its fairytale castles, lush meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, this destination offers a perfect glimpse of outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hiking through the stunning landscapes, indulging in hearty Bavarian cuisine, or exploring historic sites like Neuschwanstein Castle, the Allgäu promises an unforgettable experience. This Allgäu Travel Guide presents all the attractions and places to see.
Hike the „Grünten“ and enjoy the view from the summit
There is no way to start a guide to the Allgäu better than with a hike. A great mountain to hike and get a fantastic overview of the area, is the Grünten. With 1737 meters altitude it can be quite a challenge. The mountain is also known as the “Guardian of the Allgäu” and you will be able to spot it right away as soon as you drive into the beautiful region.
While the hike may not be the easiest or the favorite of your stay, it is still a great activity to get to know the Allgäu. During winter and summer, the Grünten offers a panorama view over the mountains and gifts you with a unique overview over the area. There are several huts where you can enjoy a delicious meal with a panorama view over the mountains.
Visit the Hopfensee and the Forggensee in Füssen
The Allgäu does not only serve with mountains but as well with beautiful lakes. During summer, you will have a blast spending a day with the locals by the lake and dipping into the fresh cold water. Plus, in the background you can almost always enjoy a mountain view. But not only during the summer time, the lakes are a great place to visit. In the winter, you can enjoy the view over the snowy landscape and the white layer on the lake.
Two of the most beautiful lakes, if not even THE most beautiful lakes, in the Allgäu are the Hopfensee and the Forggeensee. Both are located close to the small town of Füssen and are known for their panorama view to the mountains. There are beautiful trails leading around the shore. If you are up for an easy walk but still would like to soak in the mountain view, then this is the right activity.
Good to know: The best photo spot for unique shots of the lakes are along the main street of Lake Hopfen. You will find a few landing stages for boats which are perfect for the gram. And you can even spot the famous Neuschwanstein Castle in the back!
Stroll through the city of Kempten
The main city in the Allgäu is Kempten. While being out in nature and hiking should be your number one priority during your trip to the Allgäu, a day in the city is also a great choice. Kempten offers great shopping opportunities and has a picturesque old town. Have a coffee break in the small cafés and enjoy a completely different picture of the Allgäu. This is perfect on a mild summer evening or a rainy day.
Dive into the fairy tale at Neuschwanstein Castle
Of course, the main attractions besides the alpine experiences in the Allgäu is the Neuschwanstein Castle. The home of the King Ludwig II. is one of the landmarks of Bavaria and therefore a must on your trip. You can easily combine it with a stroll through Füssen or the mentioned lakes. Plus, do not miss out on a trip to the Hohenschwangau Castle, which is right next to Neuschwanstein. It is evenly beautiful and has a lot of charme.
If you are interested in the history of the building and the region, it is highly advised to book a tour.
Visit the Buchenegger Waterfalls
The next highlight of the Allgäu Travel Guide are the Buchenegger Waterfalls. During summer this is a true hotspot for both locals and tourists. The waterfalls are located close to the village of Oberstaufen and invite to multiple beautiful hikes.
Choose your own trail – depending on your condition and you motivation – and enjoy the walk through the beautiful region. During the summertime you can bring your bikini or bathing clothes and go for a dip into the cold mountain water. Have a break at the falls and watch people jump into the water. But not only during the summer months but as well during winter, the Buchenegger waterfalls offer stunning views.
Visit the Lake Attle (Attlesee)
A small but yet very beautiful lake in the Allgäu is the Attlesee. It is located close to the village of Nesselwang and is mainly known for the beautiful view of both the lake and the mountains in the background.
If you are lucky and visit the lake on a calm day, you might get to witness a beautiful reflection. There is an easy hike route leading you around the lake and the nearby forest. It takes you about an hour and a half and is the ideal route in the area. Have a picnic and enjoy the tranquility of the nature. In summer, you can bring a towel and spend the day by the lake.
This is one of the more remote places in the Allgäu – take this as a secret tip to enjoy a stunning view!
Stay in a chalet in the mountains
Want to have the true mountain experience? Then you should put this top thing to do on your list: spending a night in a hut in the mountains. While you can book yourself a private chalet close to Oberstdorf, there are as well countless possibilities to get the experience on a budget. Most of the huts in the mountains in the Allgäu have accommodation and invite you to stay for about 20 to 30 euros a night.
Good examples are:
You might need to plan a little in advance to make a reservation.
Make sure to wake up early for the sunrise and to enjoy a beer while watching the sunset. If you are planning to spend multiple weeks in the South of Bavaria, you might even consider working in one of the huts. But even one night is far above memorable and will make your trip to the Allgäu even better! Make sure to choose a hut that is located quite high in the mountains to get the best views.
Enjoy the Bavarian culture
And last but not least, an absolute Must-Do in the Allgäu is to enjoy the Bavarian culture. Get your own experience of the Allgäu and enjoy a beer. Enjoy your beer at the top of a mountain after a long hike or at the lake after you finish your day – there are countless ways to feel and taste the Allgäu. And if you want to get the regional taste of the locals try the Zöttler Beer. Have traditional “Kässpatzen” at a local restaurant.
The Allgäu awaits you with a true adventure. Get lost in the mountains and find yourself in the quiet nature. The Allgäu is for those travellers who love the outdoors and cannot get enough of the incredible views. Plan your trip to the Allgäu now and spend your next vacation in the countryside.
