Bavaria, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle

Fairy-Tale Castle Day Trip

July 19 (Monday)

19
2026

Day Trip from Munich

Visit the iconic fairy-tale castle of King Ludwig II, perched dramatically in the Bavarian Alps near Füssen. This is one of the most photographed castles in the world and served as the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle. The journey takes you through beautiful Bavarian countryside with stunning Alpine views.

Getting There

From Munich Hbf to Füssen: Regional train (~2 hours, direct or 1 change)

Frequency: Trains run every 2 hours (hourly options with connections)

From Füssen to Hohenschwangau: Bus 73/78 (~10 min, frequent)

Total travel time: ~2.5-3 hours each way

Tip: Bayern-Ticket (~€26-32 for groups) covers all regional trains + buses for the day

Morning

July 19

Departure from Munich

Early Train to Füssen

9:00 AM

Depart Munich Hauptbahnhof around 9-10 AM (e.g., 9:52 direct train). Enjoy scenic views of Bavarian countryside and the approaching Alps

Arrive in Füssen & Bus to Castle

~12:00 PM

Arrive around noon, take bus 73/78 from Füssen station to Hohenschwangau village (castle base). The bus drops you near the ticket center

Afternoon

July 19

Castle Visit

Neuschwanstein Castle Tour

Afternoon

CRITICAL: Book timed entry tickets online months in advance via the official website (hohenschwangau.de)—they sell out in July! Your ticket specifies an exact entry time. Walk, take a horse carriage, or shuttle bus up to the castle (about 30-40 min walk uphill, or 10 min shuttle). The guided tour takes ~30 minutes through the opulent interior rooms.

Marienbrücke (Mary's Bridge)

After Tour

After the castle tour, walk 10 minutes uphill to Marienbrücke—the iconic viewpoint bridge with the classic postcard view of Neuschwanstein against the mountains. Absolutely essential for photos!

Optional: Hohenschwangau Castle

Optional

If time permits, visit the yellow Hohenschwangau Castle below (where Ludwig II grew up). Less crowded and offers beautiful views. Requires separate ticket

Lunch in Hohenschwangau Village

~3:00 PM

Grab lunch at one of the restaurants or cafes in the village before heading back

Evening

July 19

Return to Munich

Return Journey

Late Afternoon

Take bus back to Füssen station, then regional train to Munich. Aim for late afternoon/evening departure to arrive back in Munich for dinner

Important Tips

• Book tickets months ahead! Neuschwanstein sells out in summer—official site only

• Wear comfortable shoes—there's uphill walking on paved/gravel paths

• Weather can change quickly in the mountains—bring layers and rain jacket

• Allow 8-10 hours total for the full day trip (including travel time)

• The castle interior tour is mandatory and timed—arrive 1 hour before your slot

• Marienbrücke can be crowded—go early or late for best photos