Day 11 – Neuschwanstein Castle Guide & Real Experience

Cultural Experiences

A day trip from Munich to the fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney. Perfect on paper—until you realize how much timing, stamina, and patience it really takes.

From Munich to Füssen

I woke up at 6 a.m., packed in 30 minutes, and reached Munich Central Station 45 minutes early. The station was busy but manageable—nothing like chaotic Rome Termini.
The departure board didn’t show my train until 20 minutes before leaving. My Omio ticket said “BRB62700,” but the station listed it as “RB68.” Same time, same destination—no problem.

Breakfast: a McMuffin set at McDonald’s, €4.8. Pricey for fast food, but convenient.
The 8:07 a.m. train had free seating and no Wi-Fi, but stable signal. My 65L suitcase fit under the seat, and the ride was calm—just rolling green fields, cows, and even a few hot-air balloons drifting in the distance.

Füssen Station & Lockers

Arrival at 10:12. The station has large lockers that fit 60–90L luggage, but by 10:20 almost all were taken. Get there early.
There’s also a restroom outside (€0.5).

To Hohenschwangau

Take the bus marked Hohenschwangau from the station—it’s about 10 minutes. I arrived around 10:30; cold enough to see my breath.
Local prices jumped: sausage €6.5, soda €3.5. Welcome to tourist town.

Tickets & Timing

By the time I reached the ticket center, same-day tickets were sold out. Always book online through the official site. Translation tools are enough even if you don’t speak German.
It says “arrive at the courtyard 15 minutes early,” but walking uphill from Hohenschwangau takes about an hour. That’s why blogs recommend arriving 90 minutes in advance.

The Walk & Marienbrücke Viewpoint

There are three options: walk, take the shuttle, or ride a horse carriage. I walked.
The slope is steady and paved—30 minutes if you’re fit. Along the way, small shops sell snacks and souvenirs (cookies €1, bread €5).

Before entering, I detoured to Marienbrücke (Marien Bridge)—a 10-minute steep climb. Crowded, and slightly terrifying because the planks shift under your feet. But the view? Straight out of a postcard.

Inside the Castle

Entry at 12:45. You scan a QR code at the gate.
The guided tour includes a Japanese audio option, though it moves fast. The interiors were dazzling—everything an eccentric king could dream up. Sadly, photography is banned.
If you want to catch every detail, move closer to the front of the group.

Descent & Füssen Town

Finished around 2:30 p.m. The walk down took about 20 minutes, passing Hohenschwangau Castle on the way.
Buses back to Füssen run every 30 minutes. The town is colorful and peaceful, with pastel houses that look straight out of a fairy tale.
Unfortunately, it was German Unity Day, so supermarkets were closed. Dinner? Skipped. My stomach filed an official complaint.


Takeaway:
Neuschwanstein is magical—but only if you plan ahead.
Book early, wear good shoes, and treat the climb like part of the experience.
The view from Marienbrücke alone makes every step worth it.

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