Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

• 4-star hikes
• 3 to 4 mile options
• Easy & Moderate | Gain 750 to 1,260 feet
• Schwangau, Germany | Bavaria
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The image shows a large, ornate castle situated on a hill surrounded by lush green trees and a scenic landscape. The castle features multiple towers with pointed roofs, intricate architectural details, and a grand, imposing structure. The background includes a vast expanse of green fields, a body of water, and distant hills under a clear blue sky.

View of Neuschwanstein Castle from MarienBrücke.

We question whether an 1886 building could ever truly be described as a castle, but without doubt the gothic revival style Schloss Neuschwanstein is a remarkable sight, particularly when paired with the setting of the Bavarian Alps. Extremely popular, most visitors reach the castle on a one mile paved walk though a shuttle bus is available, as are fairytale-fulfilling horse-drawn carriages. A further half-mile walk beyond the castle also leads the crowds to the MarienBrücke - a chasm spanning steel footbridge that boasts possibly the best view of the castle.

Hikers will appreciate the opportunity to escape from the throngs on the narrow switchback trail beyond the footbridge that leads up the steep sides of Branderschrofen Mountain. We've marked a couple of our favorite viewpoints on our map - the last of which is less than a mile from where you left the crowds behind, but offers an experience much closer to solitude. Be aware that the narrow footbridge viewpoint is very popular and a queue often develops to reach it. Thankfully on our morning hike we didn't encounter any delays.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Castle & High Viewpoint 4.1 mi loop, moderate, gain 11260 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

⬤ 4★ Castle Road 3.1 mi out & back, easy, gain 750 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions

Though the main route to the castle for many pedestrians is on the paved Castle Road, alternative natural-surface woodland trails are available and we've included them in our longer recommended route.

Several parking areas are available at the foot of the mountain and close to the castle visitor center. Tickets are not required to explore the trails we've marked, but if you'd like to enter the castle advance reservations are recommended as they frequently sell out. Also, on-the-day tickets must be purchased at the visitor center and are not available at the castle itself.

A grand castle with a distinctive European architectural style. It features multiple turrets, battlements, and arched windows, with decorative stonework and coats of arms on the facade. The castle is set against a backdrop of clear skies and mountainous terrain, and there are numerous visitors in front.

Entrance at the end of Castle Road.

Many people walking along a narrow pathway built into the side of a rocky cliff. There is a metal railing on the side of the path closest to the cliff face, and a metal bridge structure with fencing can be seen ahead. The environment appears natural and scenic, with trees and sunlight filtering through.

Heading onto the crowded MarienBrücke early in the day.

a scenic landscape featuring a lake nestled among forested hills, with a castle perched on one of the hills overlooking the lake. A small village is situated near the base of this hill, and in the background, there are towering mountains with their peaks partially obscured by clouds.

Alpsee and Hohenschwangau Castle from the switchback trail.

Two individuals hiking on a forest trail. The trail is narrow and appears to be ascending, surrounded by dense green foliage and tall trees.

Hiking the switchbacks.

A grand castle with multiple spires and towers, nestled on a lush green hillside. The architecture is intricate, featuring white walls with grey roofing, reminiscent of historic European castles. Surrounding the castle are dense forests, and a small village can be seen in the background.

Neuschwanstein Castle from the switchbacks.

A pair of dark brown horses harnessed to a red carriage with seating, walking on a paved road through a lush green forest. Two individuals are seen from behind, walking alongside the carriage on the right.

Take a horse-drawn carriage to your fairytale castle.

Tangents:
• Official: Neuchwanstein Castle
• Wikipedia: Neuschwanstein Castle
• AllTrails Public: Neuschwanstein Castle
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