Neuschwanstein Castle is located in the Bavarian Alps near the town of Füssen in southern Germany. It is one of the most famous castles in the world and a popular day-trip destination from Munich. Many travelers visit this fairy-tale castle to experience its stunning architecture and scenic surroundings.

This guide explains how to reach Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich using different transport options. You will learn about trains, buses, driving routes, and guided tours, along with practical tips to plan your journey confidently and enjoy your visit without hassle.

Getting from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle – Main Options

Train

Taking the train is a popular and comfortable way to reach Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich. It offers scenic views and reliable schedules, making it suitable for most travelers.

• Trains depart regularly from Munich Hauptbahnhof (main station) to Füssen station, with journey times around 2 hours covering approximately 130 km. Tickets cost between €25 and €40 one way depending on the train type.

• From Füssen station, you can take a local bus or taxi to Hohenschwangau village, which is about 4 km from the castle. The bus ride takes 10-15 minutes and costs around €2-3.

• Trains can be crowded during peak tourist seasons like summer and weekends, so booking tickets in advance via Deutsche Bahn or using the DB Navigator app is recommended to secure seats.

• Facilities on trains include restrooms and Wi-Fi on some services, and the route passes through picturesque Bavarian countryside, making the journey pleasant and relaxing.

• During winter months, occasional delays may occur due to snow, so check real-time train status before departure. Early morning trains are less crowded and offer a better experience.

Bus

Buses provide a direct and budget-friendly option to reach Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich, especially for travelers who prefer a single connection without train changes.

• Regional buses depart from Munich ZOB (central bus station) to Hohenschwangau or Füssen, with journey times around 2.5 to 3 hours covering roughly 130 km. Ticket prices range from €15 to €25 one way.

• Buses run less frequently than trains, so it is important to check schedules in advance on the FlixBus or regional transport websites to avoid long waiting times.

• The bus route travels via the A96 and B17 highways, passing through scenic towns like Landsberg am Lech, providing a comfortable and picturesque trip.

• Seats are generally comfortable but can be limited during peak holiday periods, so booking tickets online ahead is advisable to guarantee a seat.

• Rest stops with food and restroom facilities are available on longer routes, but on direct buses, these may be limited, so carry snacks and water for the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle offers flexibility and the chance to explore the Bavarian countryside at your own pace. It is ideal for travelers who want to visit multiple nearby attractions.

• The drive covers approximately 130 km via the A96 and B17 highways, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions. Toll roads are not common on this route.

• Parking is available near Hohenschwangau village at several paid lots, but spaces fill quickly during peak tourist seasons, so arriving early is recommended.

• The route is well signposted and passes through charming towns like Landsberg am Lech and Schwangau, where you can stop for meals or sightseeing.

• Driving in winter requires caution due to possible snow and ice on mountain roads; winter tires and checking weather forecasts are essential for safety.

• Fuel stations and rest stops are available along the highways, and local restaurants offer traditional Bavarian cuisine for a pleasant break during the drive.

Guided Tours

Guided tours from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle are convenient for travelers who prefer organized trips with transportation and entry tickets included.

• Many tour operators offer full-day trips departing from central Munich hotels or meeting points, including coach transport, castle entry tickets, and guided commentary. Prices typically range from €50 to €100 per person.

• Tours usually last 8 to 10 hours, covering travel time, castle visit, and sometimes additional stops like Linderhof Palace or Oberammergau village.

• These tours provide skip-the-line access to the castle, which is helpful during peak seasons when ticket queues can be long.

• Most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, making them hassle-free for travelers unfamiliar with local transport.

• Booking tours online in advance is essential to secure your spot, especially during summer and holiday periods when demand is high.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, helping you prepare and enjoy a smooth journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance using Deutsche Bahn or FlixBus websites to avoid last-minute hassles and ensure seat availability.

• Arrive at Munich Hauptbahnhof or ZOB at least 20 minutes before departure to find your platform or bus bay comfortably and avoid rushing.

• From Füssen station or bus stop, take the local bus number 73 or a taxi to Hohenschwangau village, where the castle is located; buses run frequently and cost around €2-3.

• Purchase your Neuschwanstein Castle entry tickets online well before your visit, as daily visitor numbers are limited and tickets sell out quickly.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for a 30-minute uphill walk or take the shuttle bus or horse-drawn carriage from the village to the castle entrance.

• Plan your return trip by checking train or bus schedules ahead of time, especially if traveling late in the day, to avoid missing the last connections back to Munich.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks, as food options near the castle are limited and can be expensive; local bakeries in Hohenschwangau offer good choices.

• Use the official Deutsche Bahn app or website for real-time train updates and platform changes to stay informed during your journey.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Uber are available in Füssen but may be limited in Hohenschwangau; plan accordingly for last-mile transport.

• Keep your valuables secure and be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas like Munich station and tourist spots around the castle.

• During peak season, start your day early to avoid large crowds and long ticket queues at the castle entrance.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling, as heavy rain or snow can affect transport schedules and walking conditions around the castle.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding landscape is lush and green. Winter visits offer a magical snowy setting but require extra preparation.

Travel conditions vary with seasons, so planning your trip with weather and crowd patterns in mind will enhance your experience and comfort.

• Avoid major German public holidays and school vacation weeks, such as Easter and summer holidays, when the castle and transport are very crowded.

• Summer months (June to August) bring warm weather but also higher visitor numbers and occasional afternoon thunderstorms that may delay travel.

• Winter months (December to February) can have snow and icy roads, causing slower travel and possible train delays; dress warmly and check transport updates.

• Early morning departures from Munich help you beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures for walking around the castle grounds.

Arrival at Neuschwanstein Castle & What to Expect

When you arrive at Hohenschwangau village, you will find several transport options to reach the castle entrance, including shuttle buses, horse-drawn carriages, and walking paths. The walk is uphill and takes about 30 minutes.

The village has basic amenities like cafes, souvenir shops, and restrooms. Local buses and taxis connect back to Füssen station for your return journey. Accommodation options are limited, so staying in Füssen or nearby towns is common for overnight visitors.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich is by train to Füssen followed by a short bus or taxi ride to the castle village. This option balances cost, comfort, and scenic travel. Guided tours offer convenience but at a higher price.

Planning ahead by booking tickets online, starting early, and preparing for walking uphill will make your visit enjoyable and stress-free. With this guide, you can confidently organize your trip and experience the magic of Neuschwanstein Castle without surprises.