Everything you need to know about visiting the iconic fairytale castle
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Nestled in the foothills of the Alps is one of the most iconic attractions in Europe: Neuschwanstein Castle. With its architectural beauty, stunning alpine backdrop, and interesting history, the castle is a must-visit for any tourist. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Neuschwanstein Castle!
About Neuschwanstein Castle
While most may know about Neuschwanstein as the Disney Castle since it inspired Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, it actually has a much more fascinating history. Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1869. Known as the Fairy Tale King, King Ludwig II is famous for constructing some of Germany’s most iconic castles. Inspired by romantic architecture, medieval legends, and Richard Wagner’s operas, Neuschwanstein Castle was meant to serve as a personal refuge for King Ludwig II where he could escape the realities of ruling. Although inspired by medieval castles, Neuschwanstein was actually quite modern for its time. It was designed with running water, central heating, and flushing toilets. Sadly, the castle was never fully completed – only 14 of the 200 originally planned rooms were finished before Ludwig’s death in 1886.
How to get to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
Neuschwanstein Castle is located in the village of Schwangau, about two hours from Munich. There are three ways to get there: rental car, public transportation, or with an organized tour group that provides transportation. Once you arrive in Schwangau, you will then need to either walk, take the bus, or go in a horse-drawn carriage to get up the hill to Neuschwanstein Castle. If you plan to do the interior tour of the castle, try to get to Schwangau at least an hour to an hour and a half before your entry time to give you plenty of time to get up the hill to the castle and go to the castle viewpoints beforehand.
By Car
A convenient way to get to the area where Neuschwanstein Castle is located is by renting a car. The views along the drive to the castle are absolutely gorgeous! Once you arrive in Schwangau, there are multiple parking lot options. We recommend parking in the P4 lot (Parkplatz P4 on Google Maps) as this is right by the stop for the bus up to Neuschwanstein.
By Public Transportation
Neuschwanstein Castle can also be visited by public transportation. Take a two-hour train ride from the Munich HBF to Füssen and then take the DB regional bus from Füssen to the Hohenschwangau Neuschwanstein Castles, Schwangau stop.
With a Tour Group
Another option is to go to Neuschwanstein Castle with a tour group that provides transportation. Many tours combine Nueschwanstein Castle with Linderhof Palace, which makes for a fun day trip from Munich. This tour on Viator is a great option.
How to get up the hill to Neuschwanstein Castle
There are three options to get up the hill to Neuschwanstein Castle: bus, horse-drawn carriage, or walking. Cars and bicycles are not allowed on the road that takes you up the hill to the castle.
Bus
The most popular and convenient way to get up to Neuschwanstein Castle is by taking the bus that leaves from the P4 parking lot. There is no set schedule for the bus; it runs according to visitor demand. Bus tickets are cash only and can be purchased at a stand right next to the bus stop. The bus will drop you off about 5 minutes from the Marienbrücke, which is a bridge where you can get a good view of Neuschwanstein Castle. It is then about a 15-minute downhill walk from Marienbrücke to the castle entrance.
Horse-Drawn Carriage
A unique option for getting to the castle is by riding in one of the horse-drawn carriages. The carriages can be found near Hotel Müller. Note: The horse-drawn carriages do not drop you off right at the castle. It’s about a 15-minute uphill walk to the castle entrance from the drop-off point.
Walking
If you’d prefer, you can also walk up the hill to Neuschwanstein Castle. The walk takes about 30 to 40 minutes and is up a steep road.
We recommend taking the bus up towards the castle and then walking back down. Go to the Marienbrücke as soon as you get off the bus, then walk to the castle, then enjoy the scenery on the walk down from the castle.
Interior tour of Neuschwanstein Castle
Wondering whether the interior tour of Neuschwanstein Castle is worth it? There are a lot of mixed opinions about going on the tour, but we really liked it! Although the interior of Neuschwanstein Castle was not fully finished, the tour still takes you through some beautiful rooms, including the throne room, king’s bedroom, and singers’ hall. Our audio guide tour of the interior took about 30 minutes. Photos and videos are not allowed inside the castle.
Make sure to reserve your tickets for the interior tour in advance as they sell out quickly. We got our tickets about a month in advance and already had limited time slot options. Try to get an early morning slot before the large tour groups show up starting around 10 AM. Timed entry is strictly enforced.
As you go to exit the castle after the tour, don’t miss stepping out on the balcony! You’ll get a great view of the Marienbrücke and the stunning surroundings.
How to get the iconic view of Neuschwanstein Castle
The most famous viewpoint to see Neuschwanstein Castle is from the Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge), about a 15-minute walk from the castle. Marienbrücke is a pedestrian bridge that’s suspended over the Pollat Gorge. Make sure to get there early as it gets crowded quickly! The bus up the hill to Neuschenwanstein Castle drops you off close to Marienbrücke.
Disclaimer: All information presented in this post was accurate at the time of our trip. Attractions, availability, circumstances, operating hours, prices, etc. are subject to change and this post may not reflect the most up-to-date information. Readers are advised to do their due diligence in researching the location prior to travel. Hyperlink content may be out-of-date and is not sponsored by or affiliated with Scenic Sites unless otherwise noted.
Visited May 2025 | Posted August 2025
