Allgäu holiday region

Alpine panoramas, fairy-tale castles and crystal-clear lakes – the Allgäu in southern Bavaria is one of Germany’s most varied holiday regions.

At a glance: Best time to visit: June–September (hiking) and December–February (skiing) · Arrive via the A7 motorway or by train to Kempten/Oberstdorf · Ideal for families, hikers and food lovers.

Why the Allgäu?

The Allgäu combines gentle pre-Alpine scenery with real summit experiences. Between Kempten, Füssen and Oberstdorf you’ll find more than 40 marked long-distance hiking and cycling trails, plus classics such as Neuschwanstein Castle, the Breitachklamm gorge and the Alpsee lake. Unlike many Alpine regions, the Allgäu is well set up for non-mountaineers too: cable cars whisk you effortlessly up the Nebelhorn or Tegelberg.

Best time to visit

PeriodRecommendation
June – SeptemberHiking, swimming lakes, cable cars – peak season, book early
OctoberGolden autumn, fewer crowds, ideal conditions for photography
December – FebruarySkiing in Oberstdorf/Kleinwalsertal, winter hiking
April – MayLow season with good prices, meadows in bloom

The most beautiful spots

Füssen & Schwangau

World-famous thanks to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Tip: reserve Neuschwanstein tickets online well in advance – in season they usually sell out on the day.

Oberstdorf

Germany’s southernmost town and the base for the Breitachklamm gorge, the Nebelhorn and the Kleinwalsertal. Car-free centre, excellent infrastructure for hikers.

Alpsee & Grosser Alpsee

Two of Bavaria’s cleanest swimming lakes. The Grosser Alpsee near Immenstadt is ideal for sailing and stand-up paddleboarding.

Where to stay

Holiday apartments and family-run hotels dominate in the Allgäu. For peak season (July/August, Christmas) you should book 3–6 months ahead.

See hotels in the Allgäu* Find holiday rentals*

Activities & tours

Popular activities include guided hikes, the royal castles tour and tandem paragliding from the Tegelberg. Many tours can be booked online in advance – well worth it in high season.

See tours & tickets*

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