Under $100: Füssen, Germany

The region of Bavaria in Germany is a fairy-tale lover´s dream. In a small town on the border of Austria, visitors can escape into a world of fantasy as the Alps rise above the rolling green hills and castles reign throughout the region. Also known as the home of the popular Neuschwanstein Castle, Füssen has a bit of its own Bavarian splendor as well.

Neuschwanstein Castle © Zingaraheureux | Dreamstime

Upon arriving in Füssen by train or car, the natural wonders of mountains, lakes and forests are presented before you. Stretch your legs after the commute with a short walk to Lechfall, a park with a manmade waterfall. For a more authentic natural experience, hike a bit further to Alatsee, the lake rumored to house Hitler´s gold.

Traditional German grub in the town of Füssen is quite easy to find. At Madame Plüsch, gather around a picnic table and enjoy German favorites like hearty stews, meat platters, schnitzel and Bavarian macaroni and cheese with a crunchy onion topping.

St. Mang’s Abbey & Füssen Castle, Germany © Adoggster | Dreamstime 25224161

After lunch, dive into the history and architecture of the Basilika St. Mang, the highlight of Füssen´s Old Town. As small as Füssen is, antsy travelers may want to get away and explore more of the surrounding woods. Renting a bicycle is one of the best and cheapest ways to wander off the beaten path and through the sub-Alps terrain.

It is impossible to mention Fussen and leave out the impossible-to-ignore white castle that juts out from the mountains. Neuschwanstein can be adored from the outside for free and the views of the countryside below are worth the 20-minute walk up the hill, but to enter the castle there is a fee of €12 ($13.40).