Neuschwanstein and other Fussen, Germany Things to Do Tips

Mad King Ludwig II's castle is a must-visit site. It's so much like a fairytale it's no wonder it was used as the basis for the Disneyworld castle.

The castle was built from 1869 to 1886, but building ceased upon Ludwig's mysterious death - with only 1/3 of the castle complete. The rooms shown on the tour are just unbelievable. And the day we visited they were going to have a concert in the concert hall that evening. Of course the concert had been sold out forever.

If you go during high tourist season, it's recommended that you either visit as part of a tour group or get reservations a minimum of 24 hours in advance. We visited the castle towards the end of September, in the afternoon, without reservations, and were fine. There were 2 people in line a head of us, and our tickets were for a tour that started in 45 minutes. That gave us plenty of time for the 10 minute bus ride up the hill, a short hike to Mary's bridge to take photos, and another short, downhill hike to the castle for our tour.

Leave a Comment

Directions: Fussen is a 2 hour train ride from Munich.
Website: http://www.neuschwanstein.com/english/index.htm

Mary's Bridge (Marienbrucke) is where Ludwig marveled at his castle, and you can do the same. After getting off the bus (or buggy, or hiking up the hill), follow the signs on the paths and take the short hike to Mary's bridge & start snapping photos with the other travellers. If you cross the bridge, the trail (now dirt) continues, is described as a bit dangerous, but has another spectacular view of the castle. We didn't have time to do this.

Another added bonus was the watching the paragliders next to the mountain.

Leave a Comment