There is a place in Southern Bavaria where one of the world’s most famous castles stands surrounded by verdant peaks, turquoise lakes, and even a refreshing waterfall.
That castle has taken the imagination of men to high levels. As a matter of fact, Walt Disney used it as inspiration for the castle who represent his brand. Therefore, this is the real deal, a proof of how reality surpasses fantasy.
Neuschwanstein. That is how it is called.
Maybe you are not familiar with the name and I am sure more than one will have problems pronouncing it. But, you sure have seen it in a picture, movie or bathroom mat (shameful but I have one of those).
Most people visit as a day trip from Munich. They got to see the castle and call it a day. Sounds good but my proposition is a bit different.
The castle is spectacular. Nevertheless, the area surrounding it is as beautiful as it can get. Why not experience a bit of that too?
In this article, we will explore ideas on what to do in the area. In addition, we will discuss several options to reach the place from Munich.
Table of Contents
Context
Neuschwanstein (New Swanstone Castle) beginnings are anchored in lots and lots of soap opera style drama. The place was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria.
Ludwig was known for ditching his royal duties to pursue his passions: Richard Wagner’s operas, theater, and architecture (or building extravagant castles in natural stunning locations).
As you can imagine, he wasn’t very popular with his ministers. On top of that, the state became deep in debt during his reign. Opposers were successful in declaring him mentality insane and unable to rule. Things got confusing during the king’s deposition. He was seized and ended up dead in a lake located south of Munich.
The event was ruled as a suicide but many believe he was murdered. According to historians, there was no strong evidence pointing to his insanity. Even though Ludwig was peculiar and eccentric, some believe he had a vision too sophisticated for his contemporaries.
Mad or not, his legacy lives. Oh, and by the way, the three castles he commissioned, including Neuschwanstein, bring millions of dollars to the state every year.
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
What to See in the Area
Are you ready to get captivated by this spot in Southern Bavaria? Alright! Let’s take a look.
Hohenschwangau Castle
The Upper Swan Country Palace was built, in its current style, in the 19th century by King Ludwig’s father, King Maximilian II. Ludwig spent a lot of time during his childhood here. That is why he knew so well the surrounding geographical features.
I visited this area more than 10 years ago but during that time, I did not have the opportunity to take a closer look at Hohenschwangau. I am glad I had a second chance since I loved the towers, swan fountain, and sweeping views.
Alpsee
After Hohenschwangau, we walked down by a different path. That is when we started to spy Alpsee though the branches. We couldn’t resist scrambling around the trees to take a closer look at the emerald and cyan lake. I had to pinch myself to make sure I was awake. The view was breathtaking!
After our encounter with branches and leaves, we walked part of the shore of the lake. I got more and more lovely views. The water was crystal clear and thoughts of jumping in kept popping up (I didn’t do it, ok).
It is possible to walk the entire shore or rent a paddle or row boat.
Neuschwanstein
Get ready for the main event!
After a bit of rest (and some fortifying sausage), I was ready to walk to the top of Neuschwanstein for the second time in my life. I do not have pleasant memories of that first walk. Plus, I have walked to many castles and I consider this the most difficult walk to get to one.
My husband kept saying: “I am sure it cannot be that difficult.”
So, there I was, twelve years after, way older and with my bad knee aching like a sting. And, let me tell you, it was as bad as I remember it. I was so relieved when the castle started to appear behind the trees.
Once at the top, I felt like twisting and turning. I got to stand between rocky peaks covered with lime colored grass and the pearly white castle that has inspired writers and artists. I got a moment to feel the place and walk every possible inch of it.
Marienbrucke
There was one more thing left to do and I remember doing it many years ago. We started walking towards Marienbrucke, a pedestrian bridge built over a gorge which affords impressive views of Neuschwanstein. If you visit, please, please, do not miss this view.
On your walk towards the bridge, you will have the opportunity to have a close look at the back of the castle.
Walk a bit more and you will be rewarded with views of Hohenschwangau, Alpsee and other lakes.
Finally, get over that bridge and get that glorious view of the castle!
Fussen
End a pretty awesome day by taking a short walk around Fussen (the end of the Romantic Road) and maybe having something delicious to eat before heading back to Munich.
Considerations Before Visiting
- The castles are located close to the town of Fussen
- The train ride from Munich to Fussen takes two hours
- Those two hours will fly away since the ride is very pleasant. Most of the journey is through a glacier plateau. The Alps will begin to make an appearance on the last half an hour
- From Fussen’s main train station, bus #78 will take you close to the base of the castles
- From where the bus drops you, it is a 30 to 40 minutes walk to Neuschwanstein. The walk is mostly uphill and extenuating. You can reach the top by horse carriage or (another) bus. Keep in mind the lines can get very long during high season. More walk is involved if you are visiting the other attractions in the area (and some of those walks are uphill too)
- Very important, you can only get inside the castles by guided tour. The tours are timed and your ticket is valid for a particular time. Now, if you want a guaranteed entrance, you have to reserve ONLINE beforehand. There is a ticket office on site (at the base of the castles) but tickets may be sold out for the day when you arrive (at least during high season). And, remember, do not walk to the castles without a ticket if you intend to go in. I saw many people asking where to get tickets once they were at the top (bad, bad news for them)
- You can get a combination (discounted) ticket if you want to visit both castles
- There are plenty of restaurants and food shops at the base of the castles
How to Reach Fussen
There are several ways to arrive:
- Spend the night in or around Fussen
- This is an excellent option since you can have an early start and visit the main attraction before the crowds arrive
- Visit with a rental car
- It is difficult to beat having your own wheels. There are plenty of parking lots in the area. This option presents the opportunity to have an early start too
- Visit from Munich with a Bayern Ticket
- A Bayern Ticket gives you the option of unlimited travel around Bavaria, for a day, on regional, S and U-Bahn trains, buses and trams. It costs 25 euros for the first person and you can add 4 more people for 6 euros each. I paid 31 euros for my husband and me.
- This is a very attractive deal since fare without the ticket would be 80 to 100 euros for two people. Because of the substantial savings, a lot of people (and I mean a lot) use this option.
- Now, there is a little catch. During weekdays, the pass can only be used after 9:00 a.m. The first viable train would depart between 9:50 and 10:00 a.m. Almost everybody wants to take that first train. Because of that, you need to get on that train as early as possible (at least during shoulder and high season). I recommend you arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure. The train should be open by then.
- I learned this the hard way. We boarded 15 minutes before departure and almost didn’t get a seat (we had to sit separately). People ended up congregating around the stairs and the exit areas.
- The first train after 9:00 gets packed because tour companies use it to move their entire groups. It was a bit shocking to me that they charge people to transport them on the train but it is what it is. They know how to play the game, so, boarding early is the best piece of advice I can give you.
- The Bayern Ticket can be used to get to Salzburg. Same situation with the train. Get there as early as possible.
- Visit from Munich without a Bayern Ticket
- You do not have to get a Bayern Ticket for transportation between Munich and Fussen. Just keep in mind you are going to pay more
- Take a guided tour
- There are plenty of companies that can take you to the castle. Before booking, I will ask for exact details of what is included.
- As I mentioned, some companies transport groups using the train. They arrive to site around 12:00 p.m., get inside Neuschwanstein, give one free hour and take the train back to Munich around 4 something. Make sure this aligns with your expectations.
- Plus, be aware many tour companies quoted price does not include the castle tour (getting inside). You will have to pay more for that.
There you have it. I have provided as much information as possible about how to enjoy to the max your visit to Neuschwanstein. I am sure this would be a day that will live in your memory for a long time.
Have you visited Neuschwanstein? Any other tips for visitors?
Ready to pin? Let’s do this!
Need more castle eye candy? Check out my post about Schonbrunn Imperial Palace in Vienna and the Buda Castle in Budapest.
Ah I love a good fairytale castle, and would really like to visit here one day. Is this also the castle used in the movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang by the way? #MondayEscapes
Hope you make it there one day. I have not seen the movie but, I googled it, and, yes, this is the castle from the movie.
Neuschwanstein is amazing! At least we get to enjoy Ludwig II eccentricities! It’s been years since I’ve visited and I’d like to go back and explore the area more (and take amazing pictures)!
You are right, at least Ludwig had good taste and imagination. I would like to visit his other two castles.
It’s such a stunning castle and I’ve always wanted to see it. I had no idea if it’s history though. Poor Ludwig! It’s definitely somewhere to explore though…one day 🙂
Agree with you! The castle is stunning. The story behind it makes it even more interesting. Next time, I need to do the tour inside.
What a simply stunning place! I just want to jump in that lake 😉 Great tips here for anyone wishing to visit. Thanks for linking to #MondayEscapes
Same feelings in here. There were people actually getting into the water. Not sure if that is allowed since I dis not see any changing facilities.
That castle! It must have been like stepping into a fairy tale 🙂
It is true. That is the feeling I got. It is the castles plus the surroundings.
Wow! Very beautiful! I like old castles very much. Your landscape photos are very beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks! I am glad you liked the photos. I wish I have stayed longer in the area.
Great shots – castles always remind me of fairy tales but especially this beautiful castle.
I think that is why we all enjoy castles so much. I do castle hoping for a living.
You’re absolutely correct, and your photos show that indeed it would be a shame to focus on the castle and ignore the lovely landscape.
Thanks so much for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2017/06/my-happy-place.html
I know! The castle is fabulous but there is so much more around it. I already want to go back and stay around a couple of days.
That is fairy tale castle come alive. I’m a bit whiny when it comes to physical exertion, so I’m pretty sure I’d be a handful. I will have to prepare in the gym should I book a trip there.
What a post. I love it.
Believe me, I am whiny too. You are not going to believe it but my husband took pictures of me when I was going up (I didn’t notice). I look terrible. At least, there was a reward for all that effort.
Wow – what a magical, fairytale place! Gorgeous shots.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the series.
your pics are beautiful. so magical
#MondayEscapes
Oh thanks you! Not a lot of effort is required to take great pictures in this place.
Gosh, I never knew King Ludwig’s story – dramatic stuff! These castles are incredible. I need to get myself back to Munich! #MondayEscapes
Ludwig and his entire family was full of drama. I like to hear about all their power and identity struggles.
Great post and fabulous photos. We decided not to visit from Munich last year as there were too many variables with children in tow but I have been promised a southern Bavaria holiday so that we can visit. #MondayEscapes
I can see how things can be a bit challenging with kids. But, a holiday in Bavaria would be great. I need to plan my own (specific to the region).
Oh wow it looks so incredible I want to visit the Castle is definitely Disneyesqu, I bet its even more beautiful in the flesh, what a stung region and gorgeous photos x
Yes, I think pictures do not make justice to the place. It is interesting the different ways you can see it. Of course, you can get close to it by walking or taking a bus but I saw people paragliding. It would be cool to see it from above.
Beautiful castle – and white – apt because of its name:) Guess you have been to Germany! The Marien Brucke – oh, it’s high up there!
About China, we went for a week to 4 cities in mainland China with our son, who was at that time teaching there. Beijing though was the most cultured and beautiful one though.
Yes, we visited several cities but the majority of our time was spent on Germany (which I loved). Wow, your trip to China sounds incredible. I have been to Shanghai but would like to see more. Hope you blog about the trip.
Thanks for the tour of these beautiful places! There is so much to see there and I’m so glad that you shared your photos with us!
Totally agree, there is a lot to see in the region. I saw so many hiking trails (I feel tempted to walk along some). There were beautiful guides to the region. Didn’t get them since they were in German but I am trying to see what I can get online.
Totally going to bookmark this! We sadly didn’t have time when we visited Munich to explore Bavaria further but visiting Neuschwanstein and staying in Füssen is definitely on my list! Thanks for the detailed infos 🙂
Hope you can go back to Germany and explore this region. I loved every bit of Germany. Felt very connected there. Next time, I have to go to the Bremen area to find out more about my family.
Oh wow it does look like a fairy tale! It’s no wonder Walt went to this place for inspiration. I’d love to visit here to see this place for myself just from the pictures alone it looks breathtaking, but i’m sure in person even better!
I have to read more about how Walt decided to go with this design for his castle. I am sure that would be interesting to discover. Hope you can make plans to visit.
Ahhh. You were in my favorite place in the whole wide world. I LOVE the Bavarian area. Füssen has the best ice I have ever eaten. This post was awesome for me. I have been missing Germany so much. Thanks for the little visit!
I feel your love. This visited opened my eyes to the many wonders of Bavaria. I enjoyed every second of my visit and want to go back badly. And, I have to try that ice cream.
I loved Neuschwanstein. I’ve been twice and I’d love to go again because I know my daughter would love it. It really is quite a hike up to the castle but I actually enjoyed it. On the far side of Marienbrucke, there is actually a trail hiking trail that goes up the side of the mountain (at least there was when we went last, not sure if it’s still open). My husband and I hiked it a bit and it led to some more fantastic views of the area. #wanderfulwednesday
I saw people on the other side of the bridge and I also saw hiking trails pointing that way. So, I am sure you can keep walking and get to see more of the area. That is why I feel like this is an area where you can spend days exploring. It is just wonderful!
What a fairy land! You must have had so much fun on your picturesque photo safari. A lot of people will want to follow in your footsteps after this post.
Ha, ha! Well, I hope people do get the itch to visit. I am sure many would love to do that.
Each castle is more beautiful than the last! Fairytale sums it up – they are simply stunning. Pinned! #FarawayFiles
Saw so many castles on this trip and I liked them all. You cannot go wrong with a castle. I mean, even ruined ones are impressive.
Gorgeous! I love these photos!
Great Sara!
I just love castles, and these are some pretty special ones! I almost made it to Neuschwanstein as a young teen, but life got in the way, and we had to miss out… someday I hope to make it back to see it in person until then these photos are pretty darn great!! #farawayfiles
Thanks Hilary! A family trip to this place would be awesome. I am sure your boys would like it a lot.
Who couldn’t resist an elegant castle or two? I have never been to Germany but I think I would like to visit one day. Recently I spent a day in the Swiss Alps just over the border from Italy and it was exquisite, so I’m sure I would enjoy the scenery of Bavaria.
Oh yes, you would love Germany! This area is located where the Alps “start” so I was not able to see a lot of them in Germany. However, I saw very vast meadows with the Alps as backdrop. It was all fantastic. I just think about those places when I am stressed out.
GREAT tips! This has been on my bucket list since I was a kid. Thanks for all the time and work you put into everything. 😀
Oh Becky, you are so sweet! I am focusing on providing tons of value through my posts. I really hope people will find them useful.
I loved all of these pictures! I get to see Neuschwanstein next year; I’m pretty excited! Sounds like I’ll need to be in pretty good shape for the hike–thanks for the heads up!
Oh, that is fabulous! I believe anybody can hike to the castle but it is going to be more difficult to some. If you are fit, I am sure this will be a walk in the park.
Funny how I still remember visiting crazy Ludwig’s castle over 30 years ago. Your photos brought back all the details.
Wow, 30 years ago! I went 12 years ago and remembered the place really well. I am happy I got to go a second time and experience things I didn’t have the chance to see that first time.
Love the detail of this post! Dying to see Neuschwanstein some day, but had never realised there were so many other lovely spots nearby too. It definitely looks worthwhile to stay longer and see Hohenschwangau, Alpsee et al. 😃
I think I met my goal then. I want people to experience the castle and the entire area. You cannot go wrong with all the beauty in this part of Bavaria.
It seems you had a perfect day when you visited Neuschwanstein, Ruth. Your pictures came out just beautiful! I would have loved to explore the area around the two castles, maybe even take a boat on the like. Unfortunately it started raining when I was there and later on the rain became snow. I’m planning to go back sometimes though. Hopefully I’ll have better luck this time.
I was a bit scared since the weather forecast for Munich and all this area was pretty bad. I was resigned to experience horrible weather. Things ended up really good! In reality, the day was considered partially cloudy because there were a lot of clouds around. But, they are ideal to take photos.
Every photo is stunning Ruth and they make me want to revisit Germany. I feel your pain knowing that the castle walk was difficult and not wanting to repeat. It was well worth it though!
Gosh, it makes me want to go back to Germany too! I am a bit obsessed with the country now. Next time, I have to go to the north and revisit the Rhine region since it rained (a lot) when I visited last month.
I planned to visit it this May but things changed:) some other time then, I’d also considered the Bayern card for train to Fussen, but perhaps a rental car is a better option because of the crowds you mentioned:) #theweeklypostcard
Having a car would be ideal since you do not have time restrictions and do not have to deal with the crowds. Next time, I think I will consider a car for the days on the countryside.
This is a really useful post for visiting Neuschwanstein, somewhere we have never heard of, but looks a stunning location. You can see the similarities with the style and disney, what a spectacular castle! Thanks for sharing. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Now that you know about it, you have to make plans to visit someday. You will love it there!
I love that you recommend the Bavaria pass, that’s what we always recommend as well. Of course, driving yourself is best, but not everyone needs a car everyday of their trip. Thanks for linking up! #wkendtravelinspiration
With the money savings, the Bayern ticket is the way to go. With the difference in fares, I do not think people want to actually spend way more money moving around. Sometimes when on a trip, I do not want to deal with the stress of driving. In the future, that may change depending where we go.
Bavaria seems to magical, and the castles are a big part of that! Love your pictures of the mountains and lakes, too. Gorgeous! Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
I think Bavaria is way prettier than what I was expecting. It is a big state with tons and tons of things to do. I need to go back (that is for sure).
What an amazing castle Neuschwanstein is. My mom visited in the ’80s and I had a poster of it in my room growing up. It really is more beautiful than the Disney castle. 🙂 #TheWeeklyPostcard
That is cool! Agree that this castle is way prettier than Disney’s castle. The surroundings cannot be recreated.
This is a fantastic post Ruth. It’s jammed packed full of inspiration and great tips about visiting the Neuschwanstein area – very much appreciated. I am bookmarking and pinning for our travel plans next year. #FarawayFiles
Katy, I am glad you found the post useful. This is a very popular place but I feel like there is not a lot of information around about how to get around and get prepared. I found useful information in travel forums but still had to figure out things on my own.
I loved my day-trip to Neuschwanstein! I did just what everyone else does and went for a day from Munich, and boy was it worth it! I have to agree that the hike up the hill was pretty rough! My friend and I were trying to save money, so we decided to walk .. and man it was long haha .. It was freezing in Munich too so we wore a ton of layers, and it happened to be like 60 degrees that day. We had to carry all of our extra layers the whole day!
Yeah, 60 degrees all layered up is a bit tough. It was that warm when I visited Philadelphia but I was all bundled up since I was coming from New York. Plus, you sweat going up that hill. I can see how all those layers came off.
We absolutely loved Neuschwanstein! I have dreamt of visiting this castle since I was young. It’s stunning including that whole area. Wish we could have stayed longer in Fussen. We drove from Munich and also visited Ludwig’s other castle, Linderhof. Beautiful photos!
I dreamed about this visit too! Even though, I had visited before. I was really excited to experience the place with my husband and it was more than what we were expecting. I want to see Ludwig’s other castles and more of the Bavarian Alps.
Great post with even more beautiful photos! It’s good to know what you can do on a day trip from Munich, I’ll bookmark it because I’ve always wanted to see Munich and Neuschwanstein. Hope the walk won’t be that bad! Alpsee looks breathtaking and so peaceful!
You gotta go! I believe city and the castle are very unique and interesting. I want to go back to Munich since I felt like I didn’t have a lot of time to see the city.
The castle just looks amazing! Since i love castles it is definitely high up on the list. Thanks for sharing all your tips and lovely photos on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
If you love castles, this is as good as it gets. There are tons of castles in Europe but this one is unique and special.
Hi, Ruth. I’d say that castle was worth the walk! The entire area is worthy of a visit. I think it would be special to stay in Fussen overnight. Thanks for co-hosting this week. #TPThursday
I knew that walk was worth it and I know the hard walk to a lot of castles is. But tell that to my legs when I am going uphill. The good thing is that I am still able to do them (even thought I sweat like crazy).
#FarawayFilesWow Neuschwanstein Castle is so beautiful in summer. I visited this place when I was only 15, on a school trip from Australian and it has forever been etched in my memory as a place I must see again. It was a very cold, snowy January when I visited this area, and seeing your photos of it in summer, it looks stunning. The surrounding countryside, towns and lakes really do need to be explored. I also believe that Ludwig did not kill himself. Why would he do that before his masterpiece castle was not finished? Great post- I am saving this one for later! #FarawayFiles
Wow! Such good memories. A lot of people have actually recommended visiting during winter since the entire scene is completely different. I find Ludwig’s story very sad. However, it is the tragic side of the story that made him so famous.
Ruth no wonder you suggest staying in Fussen. Yes, the castles are beautiful, but the surrounding areas is also gorgeous – well worth taking the time to explore.
I think you have to stay in the town in order to do justice to the area. If we could only have time to travel forever.
Wow! Fantastic photos!!!
Thanks a lot!
Whoa, it does look like Cinderella’s castle in Walt Disney World! What an amazing place to visit, we would love to visit one day. Beautiful pics, awesome post! #weekendwanderlust
Glad you noticed! I googled the castle in Disney World to see the similarities.
Reading through this post brought back memories of our Germany / Austria trip 20 years ago! I’d kept a scrapbook of our trip and to this day, that remains one of my best trips. We visited Neuschwanstein and a host of other castles… got lost (literally!) in the Black Forest, and just generally had a wonderful trip overall.
Germany can be described as the land of castles (well, as many other countries in Europe). I visited several of them during my last trip and they are all different. I keep saying it but I can hop around castles for a long time.
Fabulous post Ruth! I would love to see and do all of this – great reminder that there is more to the area than just the famous castle on the hill. I would love to toodle around that lake – it is stunning! Thanks for sharing with #FarawayFiles, Erin
Thanks Erin! Since people are going to visit the castle anyway, why not take advantage of the area’s other attractions? It is so pretty in there!
It’s my second time for me to visit this post. Your post makes me happy anytime! Thanks for sharing.
Ohhhh, thanks a lot!
Wow – I knew the castle was beautiful but I had no idea how stunning the scenery and places around it are. Thanks for a very helpful guide 🙂
No problem Jessi. The more we know, the better. Even though our bucket lists will keep growing and growing!
I didn’t know that Crazy King Ludwig came to such a bad end. Poor guy. At least his legacy lives on in Castle Neuschwanstein. I never really thought about what else there was to see in the area, so I’m glad you highlighted the nearby attractions. It’s such a beautiful area. And thanks for all the tips about getting a ticket. #WkendTravelInspiration
Yeah, his story does not has a happy ending. His cousin Sisi (Empress of Austria) didn’t end well neither. They were very different from their counterparts.
Beautiful place! Although I never visited while I lived in Germany, we made a trip a few years ago and absolutely loved it! You captured it perfectly!
Oh, thanks! I am glad the essence of the area is felt through the post.
South Bavaria is an excellent travel destination, Ruth! This place is breathtaking!
Stunning place! Stunning photos!