Neuschwanstein Castle

Perched at the top of the hill and surrounded by rolling green valleys and leafy forests, stands the majestic Neuschwanstein Castle. You can see why King Ludwig wanted to build his palace here, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. I don’t think he would be too happy these days, as the place is now swarming with tourists.  He was sadly not around to finish the artistic masterpiece due to his untimely death in 1886.  Nonetheless, he did a magnificent job, despite the extensive borrowing habits that allowed it.

You can easily take a day trip from Munich – it takes about two hours by train. Book tickets online if you want to go inside the castle (which you should, because it really is very creative and inspiring).  Unfortunately, you are not allowed to take photos of the interior, so you’ll have to go and see for yourself. Don’t be late for your timed entrance, or you will not be let in.  The Germans are punctual for a reason!

Behind the castle, you can take a walk to a footbridge which crosses a cascading water fall.  There, you will get the photo of the castle that everybody wants.  Prepare to stand in a queue for a while as you inch your way into prime viewing position!  You can also capture other magnificent picture-perfect landscapes.

It would be worth spending a few nights in the town below, so that you can really enjoy the surrounding forests and take some nature walks at a slower pace.

Have you been to Neuschwanstein Castle?  What else did you do in the surrounding area?