Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle is a fairy-tale gem and a top attraction in Germany. Constructed by King Ludwig II as a personal sanctuary, the castle later became a source of inspiration for Disney's iconic fairy-tale castles. Join a day tour to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich to explore its lavish interiors and enchanting towers.

You will find below everything you need to know about Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most fascinating destinations for day trips from Munich.

Getting there

Neuschwanstein Castle is located close to the village of Hohenschwangau, in the Bavarian Alps. It is approximately 130 kilometers away from the city of Munich.

By car: The drive to Neuschwanstein Castle takes nearly two hours by car. Head west out of the city on the A96 until exit 24, then follow the B17 towards Landsberg am Lech until you reach the castle.
By public transport: Traveling to Neuschwanstein Castle by public transport takes about three hours, involving a train ride to Weilheim and a bus journey to Füssen, where the castle is located. The total journey, including transfers, takes about three hours.
Guided tour: Consider a guided day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle for a hassle-free experience. Meet in the city between 8 AM and 9 AM, and board a comfortable vehicle to the palace. Tours last approximately nine to 11 hours, returning to Munich in the evening.

Prices

Regular: € 18
Reduced: € 17
Children under 18: Free

Students, seniors, and individuals with disabilities receive discounted admission. Carers of disabled persons enter for free. You can also buy a combination pass for €31, valid for six months, to visit all three palaces linked to King Ludwig II. Booking online in advance incurs a €2.50 fee.

Itinerary

Meet your tour guide at a central location in Munich and board a coach or minibus.
Visit Linderhof Castle, often part of tours for its proximity to Neuschwanstein Castle and ties to King Ludwig II.
Explore Linderhof Castle's impressive halls and rooms, either on a guided walk or at your own pace.
Pause in Oberammergau to see traditional wood carvings and learn about the town's famous "Passion Play"
Proceed to Neuschwanstein Castle via Marienbrücke (Queen Mary's Bridge), offering stunning views of the castle.
Join a guided tour of Neuschwanstein Castle, learning about its history and King Ludwig II's eccentricities.
Return to Munich, concluding your day tour of Neuschwanstein Castle.

Our selection of the best tours

If you wish to take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, you'll be spoiled for choice. There are many tours to choose from that vary in group size and itinerary.

Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Trip

Visit the castles Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Hohenschwangau
Trip to the tiny Bavarian town of Oberammergau
Price: From €72
Duration: 10h'30

Skip the line tickets to Neuschwanstein Castle + Tickets for the Highline 179

Skip the line tickets to Neuschwanstein Castle + Tickets for the Highline 179
Private tour incl. hotel pickup and drop-off
Price: From €600
Duration: 9h'30

Neuschwanstein Castle tour + tickets and Alpine Coaster

Skip the line tickets to Neuschwanstein Castle + Linderhof and Oberammergau
Alpine Coaster (summer toboggan run) ride through the picturesque Alps
Price: From €600
Duration: 9 hours

Tour prices

Small group excursion to Neuschwanstein Castle: Approx. €60.
Day trip to Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, and Hohenschwangau castles: Approx. €60.
Private tour to Neuschwanstein Castle with a visit to Ettal Abbey: Starting at €490 for up to seven participants.
Private tour to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof castles: €1,200 for up to three people, including lunch.
Entrance fees to all castles are additional and usually paid by the visitor.

Highlights and Activities

Neuschwanstein Castle, built by King Ludwig II, is a tribute to Richard Wagner and served as a royal retreat. Construction began in 1869 but halted upon the king's death in 1886. It later opened to the public, drawing millions of visitors annually.

Ludwig II, known as the "Fairy Tale King," was a patron of the arts, particularly Wagner's operas, which influenced the castle's design. Despite Ludwig's mysterious death, Neuschwanstein's opulent throne room and other completed areas showcase its grandeur.

Often called the "Cinderella Castle", Neuschwanstein inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle. Walt Disney himself drew from its fairy-tale charm during a visit in 1955, reflecting its enduring legacy.

Best time to visit

For the best experience at Neuschwanstein Castle, plan your visit between September and November when the weather is mild, crowds are fewer, and trees are adorned with vibrant autumn colors. If you prefer the winter charm, January and February offer a chance to see the castle draped in a pristine layer of snow.

Opening hours

Neuschwanstein Castle is open every day of the year except Dec. 24, 25 and 31 and Jan. 1.

March 23 to Oct. 15: 9 AM to 6 PM
Oct. 16 to March 22: 10 AM to 4 PM

Before you go

Many day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle include skip-the-line tickets. Choose one of these tours in order to spend more time exploring and less time queueing.
Large bags are not allowed inside the castle, so pack light for your day tour.
Bear in mind that the castle is constantly undergoing maintenance. Because of this, you may see scaffolding around parts of the building.
While photography is permitted on the grounds of the castle, it is prohibited inside the building itself. If you want to take extraordinary photos, head to Queen Mary's Bridge.

Tours from other cities

Neuschwanstein Castle: Day Trips and Tours from Munich