Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Germany’s most recognisable attractions and makes for a wonderful excursion from Munich.
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 Tour
This full-day Neuschwanstein Castle tour departs from central Munich, travelling by train to the Bavarian Alps in around two hours. Throughout the journey and visit, trained English-speaking guides provide historical context and commentary on King Ludwig II. The itinerary includes time at key viewpoints, such as Marienbrücke, as well as views of nearby Hohenschwangau Castle and the surrounding alpine landscape. Guests can also explore lakeside and canyon areas if conditions allow. Transportation and guiding are included, with free time on site and optional access to the castle interior arranged without queueing. From €79 per person.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tour and Alpine Coaster
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).