Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Germany’s most recognisable attractions and makes for a wonderful excursion from Munich.
(Photo: GetYourGuide / Courtesy Pure Bavaria Tours)
Said to have been the inspiration behind Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, the nineteenth-century Romanesque Revival palace perched atop a rugged hill in southwest Bavaria is less than two hours’ drive from Munich, making it easy to visit in a day. There are a wide number of tours to the castle from Munich to choose from, and we’ve picked out three of the best, based on cost, value for money, and traveller reviews.
Neuschwanstein Castle Full-Day Trip
After being picked up in private transport, you’ll pass through charming old Bavarian villages and scenic countryside before arriving at the fairy tale castle of Neuschwanstein. Once there, you’ll be taken on a guided tour of the castle, including the imposing palace perched on a craggy hill and offering stunning views all around. After exploring the castle, you’ll be taken to some of its surrounding attractions, including a picturesque gorge featuring cascades and waterfalls. During your return journey to Munich, you’ll stop off at a UNESCO World Heritage Church of Wieskirch and a Bavarian cheese farm where you can sample some of the produce. From €74 per person.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tour and Alpine Coaster
(Photo: Viator / Courtesy Sightseeing Bavaria Exclusive
Combine a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle with an adrenaline-fuelled rollercoaster ride through the alpine mountains on this action-packed tour. Starting in Munich, you’ll be transported to the fairytale-esque castle where you can enter with skip-the-line tickets. Later, you’ll continue south, passing the crystal clear fjord-like lake Plansee, with the added option to stop off at Schloss Linderhof palace. Your next port of call is the thrilling Alpine Coaster, the world’s longest toboggan run, affording passengers breathtaking views with the wind in their hair. To round off your tour, you’ll visit the rococo Pilgrimage Church of Wies, the 14th-century Ettal Monastery, and the stunning Lake Starnberg, before returning to Munich. From €421 per group (price varies by group size).
Private Tour: Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau
See two of the palaces built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria on this private, full-day tour from Munich. Departing early morning following a hotel pick-up, you’ll be driven southwest to the Bavarian foothills of Füssen. Along the way, you’ll stop at the famous Wies Church, if desired, before arriving in Hohenschwangau in time for lunch (own expense), and a private tour of Hohenschwangau Castle. The next stop is Neuschwanstein Castle, where you’ll get to skip the typically long lines to get inside and enjoy a private tour of this medieval masterpiece. Finally, you can choose between a stroll around the scenic Lake Alpsee or continue by coach to the Linderhof Palace, about an hour away in Ettal, before being despatched back in Munich.
From €466 per group (price varies by group size).