Day Trip From Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle

Apr 14, 2018

Last updated on February 28th, 2025 at 10:32 am

Visiting Neuschwanstein castle, aka the fairytale castle or the Swan castle near Munich in Germany, makes for a fun day trip from Munich. It has inspired the likes of many artists, including Walt Disney, who created Sleeping Beauty’s castle after it.

For us, what started off as a day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle turned into a road trip to multiple castles and a walk through German villages. Read along to find out how you can make the most of your day trip here with lots of useful tips. 

Related: How to spend 3 fun days in Munich

While there are so many beautiful places to see in Bavaria, on our recent summer visit, we drove from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle. The castle sits elegantly on top of a hill surrounded by the Austrian Alps overlooking Lake Alpsee with a view of a gushing not one but two waterfalls. As we’ve said before, the setting cannot be short of any fairy tale. You might as well just wait for Sleeping Beauty to wake up.

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History of King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein Castle

Schloss Neuschwanstein literally translates to “new swan-on-the-rock castle.” It is located in the village of Schwangau at the border of Germany and Austria.

This fairytale castle was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria (Southern Germany) over a century ago. Construction of the castle remains unfinished since the king’s mysterious death after residing in his beloved castle for only 172 days. 

Neuschwanstein’s doors were opened to the public within weeks of the king’s death in 1886. It remains open to date drawing millions of visitors each year. 

This image features Neuschwanstein Castle, a breathtaking 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace perched on a hill in Bavaria, Germany. The castle's white limestone façade, towering turrets, and fairy-tale-like architecture stand out against the lush green landscape and a dramatic sky. The scenic backdrop includes rolling hills, a picturesque village, and a serene lake, enhancing the castle’s enchanting charm.
Postcard view of Neuschwanstein Castle from Marienbrucke

Everything we read before the trip referred to King Ludwig II of Bavaria as the Mad King. With a nickname like that our initial impression, as an avid reader of medieval history,  was a terrifying ruler who brought wreckage to his kingdom. Little did we know, not all nicknames are historically glorified. Upon further research, we were disappointed when we couldn’t find any wars started by the young king.

Was he then mad, literally? It was somewhat hard to digest that a mentally unstable king would commission such a beautiful endeavor. We couldn’t wait for our guided Neuschwanstein Castle tour to discover the enigma behind this castle and its commissioner.

Our tour guide in Hohenschwangau castle, the first castle we visited (highly recommend it), was a loyal and humble royal employee. To my surprise, he never once called King Ludwig a Mad King. I reached out to him at the end of our tour with my obvious question – “Why is the king referred to as a mad king?”

“Because he dared to dream”, the tour guide replied in despair. A couple more questions later it was evident that the King was channeling heavy amounts of money towards the construction of his dream castle amongst his many other eccentric hobbies causing serious economic problems for the already troubled kingdom.

How Ironic that today this very castle is the biggest revenue generator for the government in this area.

This image showcases Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany, bathed in the warm glow of sunset. The fairytale-like structure, with its tall tower and intricate architectural details, stands against a dramatic forested mountain backdrop. The surrounding lush greenery is illuminated with golden hues, enhancing the castle’s enchanting and dreamlike atmosphere.
Neuschwanstein Castle at sunset. How can you deny there being magical powers here?!

History of Hohenschwangau Castle

Well firstly, did you even know there is another castle located near Neuschwanstein Castle?

Pat on your back if you do, ‘coz, to be honest, we didn’t.

The village of Schwangau is also home to another beautiful castle – Schloss Hohenschwangau, the original castle. The then young prince Ludwig II and his brother spent a lot of time growing up in this castle which was their summer family holiday home. The setting of this castle is so majestic that it should come as no surprise that the creatively gifted young prince was smitten by the idea of having his very own castle one day. 

Today Hohenschwangau castle is under the custody of Bavarian royal family. While Neuschwanstein castle is under the German government’s jurisdiction. 

This image captures a breathtaking view of Hohenschwangau Castle nestled among lush green hills, framed by a stone pillar in the foreground. The golden castle sits atop a forested hill, overlooking a serene lake, with the Bavarian Alps stretching into the misty horizon. The dramatic sunlight filtering through the clouds adds a magical and ethereal glow to the landscape.
Hohenschwangau Castle as seen from Neuschwanstein Castle terrace. It certainly feels like being in a fairytale movie from up here.

Tips For Your Day Trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle

How to Get to Neuschwanstein Castle

By Car: It takes about 1:45 mins by car from Munich to get here. We rented a car from Munich to maximize our time exploring German countryside. There is a huge paid parking lot in the village of Schwangau at the bottom of the hill where Neuschwanstein is located. The ticket center is a 2- minute uphill walk from the parking lot.

TIP: Cars are not allowed all the way up to Neuschwanstein Castle. At least not in operating hours, however, we saw a few cars going up there during sunset. Not sure if that was legal.

By Train: Take the train from Munich Hauptbahnhof (Hbf) Station to the village of Fussen. Neuschwanstein castle is about 4 km away from Fussen. There are buses that run from Fussen train station to castle’s ticket center in Schwangau. Or just get a taxi for this short distance.

TIP: Add a couple of extra hours to your travel time if you choose public transport. 

If you don’t want to take the hassle of transportation then consider booking a castle day tour from Munich. 

Pay the Entrance Fee to Explore the Castle Interiors

Don’t just drive all the way to see these castles from outside, immerse yourself in a little history by visiting them as well. TIP: The only way to see these castles from inside is by taking a guided tour. To be very honest, we liked the interior tour of Hohenschwangau more.

The ticket office is located at the foothill of the castles, you can read more information on opening hours and ticket prices on their official website.

This image captures a lively scene outside the ticket center for Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles in Bavaria, Germany. The building has a charming European design with a black metal roof and round dormer windows, and signs reading "TICKETS" and "REISELEITER/GUIDES" are visible. A crowd of tourists, many carrying backpacks, waits in line or gathers around, preparing for their visit to the famous castles.
Neuschwanstein castle entrance ticket counter

We highly recommend you to book your tickets online if you want to tour the castle. The tickets can easily get sold out since they have limited availability of tours per day. TIP: If you do not want to go inside Neuschwanstein Castle then seeing the castle from outside is totally FREE. 

Getting to Neuschwanstein Castle from the Ticket Office

The castle entrance is on top of a hill which takes a considerable amount of time to reach. The guided tours start at precisely the time mentioned on your tickets so make sure you reach the castle entrance before time. Three ways you can get up there are – 

  • Hiking – If you chose to hike as we did, it will take roughly 30-45 mins one way on a steep uphill paved road that the horse carriages follow. In fact, there are multiple hiking paths to get up here offering different vantage viewpoints. 
  • Shuttle Bus – You can buy the shuttle tickets inside the bus which can get you there in about 15 minutes. You can ask about the shuttles at the ticket office.
  • Horse Carriage – You can buy the ticket from the driver since carriage reservation in advance is not possible.

TIP: You are not allowed to take your own vehicle up the hill to the castle entrance. 

This image captures a scenic forest pathway leading to Neuschwanstein Castle, with tourists walking and riding a horse-drawn carriage. The lush green trees form a canopy over the road, filtering sunlight and casting dappled shadows on the ground. The carriage, covered in green fabric, carries several passengers enjoying a leisurely ride up the hill, while others prefer to walk along the picturesque route.
Hike to Neuschwanstein Castle
This image showcases a breathtaking panoramic view of the Bavarian countryside, featuring vast green fields, scattered farmhouses, and a serene lake in the distance. The landscape is dotted with winding roads and a small white church, adding to the picturesque charm. The bright blue sky with fluffy clouds casts soft shadows over the rolling hills, creating a peaceful and idyllic scene.
View of the village from castle entrance
This image captures a scenic moment on a forested path leading to Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany. A traveler, dressed casually with a backpack, stops to take a photograph of the iconic fairytale-like castle, which rises majestically above the lush greenery. The castle’s white limestone facade and intricate towers contrast beautifully against the surrounding trees and the partly cloudy sky.
Hike to Neuschwanstein Castle

Getting to Hohenschwangau Castle from the Ticket Office

Hohenschwangau castle’s hill is not as high as it’s peer. A few steep stairs and you will reach the entrance. There is also an option to get here via shuttle bus. We personally felt that this castle had more of a homely feel than Neuschwanstein castle. It could be from the fact that this castle had been lived in a lot longer by the royal family. 

This image captures a group of visitors ascending a stone staircase leading to Hohenschwangau Castle in Bavaria, Germany. The steps are flanked by mustard-yellow castle walls on one side and lush green foliage on the other, creating a picturesque and historic setting. Sunlight filters through the trees, casting soft shadows, while a young child eagerly climbs ahead, adding a sense of adventure to the scene.
Hohenschwangau Castle
This image captures the entrance to Hohenschwangau Castle in Bavaria, Germany, featuring its distinctive mustard-yellow walls and medieval-style crenelated archway. A cobblestone path leads visitors through the arch toward the castle’s main building, adorned with intricate frescoes and decorative elements. The bright blue sky and lush greenery contrast beautifully with the historic architecture, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere.
Hohenschwangau Castle
This image captures a picturesque scene in Hohenschwangau, Germany, featuring Hohenschwangau Castle perched atop a lush green hill. In the foreground, a horse-drawn carriage with a blue canopy carries passengers along the road, offering a charming and traditional mode of transportation. A quaint white house with green shutters and a few tourists enjoying the scenic surroundings complete the idyllic Bavarian setting.
Hohenschwangau Castle

Where to Find the Best Views of Neuschwanstein Castle

1. Village of Schwangau 

As you drive through the beautiful village of Schwangau you cannot miss it. Take your time to enjoy the rural beauty of this village and the first look of Neuschwanstein from a distance.

This image showcases a dreamy landscape with a woman walking through a lush wildflower meadow, gazing at Neuschwanstein Castle perched high on a forested hill. She wears a straw hat and a flowing blue top, adding a serene, wanderlust-filled touch to the scene. The majestic castle, framed by towering mountains and dense greenery, creates a breathtaking fairytale-like backdrop.
View of Neuschwanstein Castle en route Schwangau Village.

2. Hohenschwangau Castle

Believe it or not, the compounds of Hohenschwangau castle provide some spectacular views of Neuschwanstein as well.

This image showcases the picturesque view from Hohenschwangau Castle in Bavaria, Germany, with its distinctive mustard-yellow walls and terracotta roof tiles in the foreground. Beyond the lush green valley, Neuschwanstein Castle is visible in the distance, nestled against the dramatic mountain backdrop. The contrast between the two castles, along with the vibrant greenery and blue sky, creates a stunning and fairytale-like scene.
Hohenschwangau Castle terrace overlooking Neuschwanstein Castle.

3. Lake Alpsee

A five minute walk downhill from the ticket office and you’ll run into this epic Lake Alpsee. We really got lucky with a clear day so we took advantage of that by indulging in paddle boating. It gave us a unique perspective of Neuschwanstein as well as panoramic views of the Austrian Alps. Lest we mention this was possible since we had a two-hour wait before our tour started. Talk about not buying tickets in advance! 

This image captures a serene lake surrounded by lush green mountains, with a small canoe carrying two people in the distance. The calm water reflects the sky and clouds, creating a mesmerizing mirror effect that enhances the tranquility of the scene. The vibrant greenery, distant peaks, and soft ripples on the water add to the dreamlike beauty of this idyllic landscape.
View of Austrian Alps from Lake Alpsee
This image captures a stunning lakeside view with Neuschwanstein Castle perched high on a forested mountain in the background. The lake’s deep blue waters contrast beautifully with the lush greenery surrounding it, while a grand building with a red roof and construction cranes sit near the shore, indicating ongoing development. The towering peaks and soft clouds above complete this picturesque Bavarian landscape.
View of Neuschwanstein Castle from Lake Alpsee
This image captures a woman enjoying a boat ride on a serene lake, surrounded by stunning Bavarian mountains. She is smiling, wearing a straw hat and a blue striped blouse, while relaxing against the boat railing. In the background, Neuschwanstein Castle is visible on the distant hillside, adding a magical touch to the peaceful and picturesque setting.
Paddle boating on Lake Alpsee, can you spot the tiny castle behind me?

4. Hike to Marienbrucke

Marienbrucke or Marien’s Bridge is located behind the castle and is another 15-20 minute hike further up the hill from the castle entrance. Why this hike? You will get a postcard view of Neuschwanstein castle from this bridge. Marienbrucke can also be seen from the castle’s terrace as well.

Don’t forget to look in the opposite direction of the castle well, there are beautiful waterfalls waiting for you. If you have the appetite to continue hiking then cross the bridge and keep going. TIP: We were told by fellow hikers that the views get better past this bridge. There are a lot of different trails around Neuschwanstein that can be taken to see the castle from different vantage points. 

This image captures a serene moment as a woman walks along a winding mountain path, surrounded by breathtaking alpine views. She wears a straw hat and a flowing blue blouse, adding to the peaceful, wanderlust-filled atmosphere. The dramatic sky, rugged peaks, and scenic railing-lined pathway create a stunning backdrop for this quiet moment of exploration.
Hike up to Marienbrucke from the castle
This image showcases Marienbrücke, a historic pedestrian bridge near Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany. The metal bridge stretches over a dramatic gorge, surrounded by lush green foliage and rugged rock formations. A sign near the entrance provides information about the bridge's history, inviting visitors to cross for a breathtaking panoramic view of the fairytale castle.
Marienbrucke
This image captures a breathtaking aerial view of a waterfall cascading through a rocky gorge into a crystal-clear turquoise pool. The rugged cliffs, covered in patches of greenery, frame the rushing water as it carves its way through the landscape. The scene is a stunning display of nature’s power and beauty, likely taken from Marienbrücke near Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany.
Waterfall behind Neuschwanstein Castle
This image captures a stunning view of the Bavarian Alps, featuring towering forested mountains and a dramatic rocky gorge. Marienbrücke, a narrow suspension bridge, stretches across the canyon, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The vibrant green foliage contrasts beautifully with the rugged cliffs, creating a perfect blend of nature and adventure.
MarienBrucke as seen from Neuschwanstein Castle terrace
This image captures a romantic scene from Marienbrücke, the bridge overlooking Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany. The foreground features love locks attached to the bridge’s railing, including a red heart-shaped lock with Chinese characters. Beyond the railing, the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle stands majestically against a backdrop of rolling green hills and a soft, cloudy sky.
Post card view of Neuschwanstein Castle from Marienbrucke. The love locks haven’t spared this bridge either.

5. Town of Fussen

This colorful and cozy little Bavarian town is located less than 10 minutes drive from Neuschwanstein castle. If you are taking the train from Munich you will get down at Fussen. Due to its close proximity to the castles, Fussen makes for a great spot to spend the night if you do not want to do a day trip from Munich. We stopped here for dinner before returning to Munich.

This image captures a charming evening scene in Füssen, Germany, with warmly lit pastel-colored buildings lining the street. In the background, the illuminated Hohes Schloss, a medieval castle with a distinctive clock tower, sits atop a hill, adding a fairytale touch. The deep blue sky contrasts beautifully with the glowing lights of the town, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Village of Fussen, the closest city to Neuschwanstein castle
This image captures a lively evening in the historic town of Füssen, Germany, with warm lights illuminating the cobblestone streets. The charming pastel-colored buildings house cafés and shops, including a traditional clothing store with a decorative Edelweiss sign. In the background, the illuminated Hohes Schloss, with its distinctive clock tower, stands against a dramatic deep blue sky, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.
Fussen can be a perfect spot to spend the night if you do not want to do a day trip from Munich

To wrap this post up, there is nothing like exploring hidden beauty in remote villages and these two castles are a perfect example of that. The Swan King, as we prefer to call him rather than his infamous nickname, has left a magical legacy behind him inspiring everyone who pays a visit here. Make sure you do too!

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Take a day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle and discover the best views of this Bavarian fairytale castle that inspired Disney.
Take a day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle and discover the best views of this Bavarian fairytale castle that inspired Disney.

Happy Traveling!

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21 comments on “Day Trip From Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle”

  1. Beauty is the only thing that time cannot harm. Philosophies fall away like sand, creeds follow one another, but what is beautiful is a joy for all seasons, a possession for all eternity.

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  2. Thank you for a very detailed article about Neuschwanstein Castle and others plus the sights in the surrounding area. I’m inspired to take a flight to Munich again. This time, not only to drive on to Austria, which is one of my favourite destinations.

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    • Thanks a lot! We drove to Austria as well! In fact, penning a post on our drive to Salzburg and Hallstatt from Munich… will be posting that in a few weeks 😀

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    • Aww.. nonetheless, isn’t it amazing that you saw this amazing castle with your own eyes and now have beautiful memories forever 🙂

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  4. This is all such great advice – you really detailed everything so well and I love the history behind the castle! I’d love to stay in Fuessen overnight it looks so gorgeous!

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    • Right! I had no idea I will spend an entire day so productively when all I thought was I going to see one castle. Love everything about the surroundings of this castle. 🙂

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  6. I visited these castles years ago and your post took me right back to the swans and enchanting stories about the Mad King. They’re such gorgeous castles!

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  7. These pictures are amazing. We were there last year in March, the weather was dewy and it rained that day.
    You have captured this place very nicely, wonderful post!

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    • Uh-oh, rains and gloomy weather have been our biggest fear but now we have learned to live it when we travel. And yes we did get very lucky to have a clear day when we went to see this castle 🙂

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    • Ohh my, I have seen some photos of the castle in winter and they look absolutely dreamy. I can only imagine what a fun holidays you must have had here 🙂

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  9. As a personal travel planner specializing in Europe I have sent clients to visit these castles. But I haven’t been yet. I definitely need to see them. They look stunning!! Beautiful images and great, informative post.

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  10. I’ve been dreaming to visit the Neuschwanstein castle for ages and when opened this blog post I immediately went to check flight options to Munich for as soon as possible. You really had a dream trip there. Thank you for all the inspiration!

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    • Ha! You sound just like me right now 😉 Me checking for tickets everytime I see a dream spot.. That’s the way to go girl!

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    • Oh I love the castles in Germany and this is one of the best! Perhaps you can do a mini castle hunting trip next time 🙂

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