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Of all the stops on our Christmas market trip by train, one day stood out for pure wow factor: our day tour from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, the day after a fresh snowfall. It was absolutely stunning in the winter snow.
Why we took a tour
We went with a guided bus tour from Munich, and we’d recommend it, especially in winter:
- Someone else drives the snowy mountain roads.
- You learn the history on the way. Our guide told us the story behind the castle, which made the visit much more meaningful.
- Your castle entry is handled. Inside visits are by timed ticket, and tours typically include one.
Compare Neuschwanstein day tours from Munich. Look at what’s included (castle ticket, carriage or bus up the hill, free time) and how long you get at the castle.
A little history
Neuschwanstein was built in the late 1800s by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as a romantic, fairytale retreat in the mountains. It’s famous today as one of the inspirations for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, and once you see it on its cliff above the valley, you understand why.
Getting up the hill: walk or carriage
No cars are allowed up to the castle. From the village below, you either walk up the hill or pay for a horse-drawn carriage ride to the top.
Chantelle was 35 weeks pregnant on this trip, so we definitely paid for the carriage. If you have little kids, a stroller, or anyone who’d struggle with a steady uphill walk in the snow, the carriage is worth it.
If you’re traveling pregnant, talk to your doctor before booking, and check your airline’s rules for flying late in pregnancy. Many have cutoffs or require a doctor’s note in the third trimester.
Touring inside the castle
We toured inside, and it was awesome. The castle is very well preserved and clean, and the guided tour takes you through each room. Interior photos aren’t allowed, so you’ll have to see it for yourself, but the views from the windows were incredible.
The Marienbrücke in winter
The Marienbrücke, the bridge viewpoint famous for the classic photo of the castle, was closed in the snow when we visited. That’s common in winter, so don’t plan your trip around that one photo. There are still beautiful views of the castle from the paths and the village.
Free time: lunch and the Alpsee
Our tour gave us time on our own before and after the castle. We had lunch at a restaurant in the village below, then walked to the nearby Alpsee, a lake surrounded by mountains, which was beautiful in the snow.
Right next door is a second castle, Hohenschwangau, where Ludwig grew up. You can tour it too, but we didn’t have enough time. If seeing both matters to you, pick a tour (or plan your own day) with time for both.
Tips for Neuschwanstein in winter
- Book a tour or timed tickets ahead. Castle entry is by timed ticket and sells out.
- Wear real winter boots. Paths can be snowy and icy, and you’ll stand outside a lot.
- Budget for the carriage if anyone in your group can’t comfortably walk uphill.
- Don’t count on the Marienbrücke in snow or ice.
- Bring cash for the carriage and snacks in the village.
- It’s a long day from Munich, so pack snacks and charge your phone.
Would we go back?
Yes, and we’d go in winter again. Seeing a fairytale castle covered in fresh snow is something we’ll never forget. Next time we’d plan more time for Hohenschwangau too.
Frequently asked questions
Is Neuschwanstein Castle open in winter?
Yes. We visited at the end of November, after a fresh snowfall, and toured inside. Book timed tickets or a tour ahead, because castle entry is by timed ticket.
Is the Marienbrücke open in winter?
It was closed in the snow when we visited, which is common in winter. Don't plan your trip around that one photo. There are still beautiful views of the castle from the paths and the village.
How do you get up to Neuschwanstein in winter?
No cars are allowed up to the castle. You walk up the hill or pay for a horse-drawn carriage. Chantelle was 35 weeks pregnant, so we took the carriage.
Should you take a day tour from Munich to Neuschwanstein?
We'd recommend it in winter. Someone else drives the snowy mountain roads, the guide explains the history, and castle entry is usually included. Plan for a long day.
