Neuschwanstein Castle: Is it worth the trip?
Yes, if you want to see a fairytale castle not just on a postcard, but amidst mountain landscapes. Neuschwanstein stands on a rocky outcrop near Schwangau and Füssen, in the Allgäu region, and the journey to it is part of the experience.
What to know before your trip
You cannot drive directly to the castle: the path starts in the village of Hohenschwangau, where parking and the ticket center are located. From Füssen, you can take a train, and then a bus to the stop near the castles. It takes about 30-40 minutes to walk from the ticket center to Neuschwanstein, so comfortable footwear will really come in handy.
If you don’t want to walk the whole way, you can use a shuttle or a horse-drawn carriage, but both options leave part of the route on foot. The shuttle takes you to the viewpoint above the castle, from where you need to descend to the entrance; the carriage also does not go directly to the entrance. The schedule of the transport providers is not fixed, and the shuttle may not operate in snow or icy conditions.
You can only enter the castle with a guided tour, so it’s worth planning your visit around the ticket and entry time. Tickets are sold online and at the Hohenschwangau ticket center, but availability on-site depends on demand. If you enjoy landscapes, walks, and a bit of climbing, Neuschwanstein is definitely worth the trip — would you like to see it in person?