Bavaria is castle country, and Munich sits right in the middle of it. Within a couple of hours you can reach storybook palaces, medieval fortresses, and lakeside ruins that look made for a film set. Whether you want the classic Neuschwanstein day trip or something quieter, these stops deliver that fairytale mood without needing a long journey. Here is a practical guide to the best castles near Munich and how to visit them.
Neuschwanstein and the royal dream of Bavaria
Neuschwanstein is the headline castle for good reason. Built by King Ludwig II in the 19th century, it was designed as a romantic fantasy with soaring towers, dramatic cliffs, and interiors inspired by opera and legend.
The setting above Hohenschwangau village is unreal, especially when the forest is green in summer or dusted with snow in winter. Expect crowds year round, so book entry tickets online in advance if possible.
From Munich, trains run to Fussen, then buses connect to Hohenschwangau. The final uphill walk takes about 30 to 40 minutes, or you can use shuttles and horse carriages when available. The most famous viewpoint is Marienbrucke, a bridge that frames the castle against the Alps. Try to reach it early before tour groups stack up.
If you are staying overnight in the area, the evenings feel much calmer and more atmospheric. Some travelers browsing nightlife in Munich also come across services like escort München, but that is unrelated to the castle trip itself. If you ever consider anything like that for a private evening in the city, keep it legal, safe, and reputable. For castle days, focus on good shoes, a light jacket, and timing your visit well.
Other fairytale castles within easy reach
Right next to Neuschwanstein is Hohenschwangau Castle, Ludwig’s childhood home. It is smaller, warmer in style, and often less crowded. Many visitors tour both in one day, and the contrast between the lived in feel of Hohenschwangau and the theatrical ambition of Neuschwanstein is part of what makes the trip special.
Closer to Munich, Linderhof Palace is another Ludwig II masterpiece. It is the smallest of his royal projects but arguably the most elegant, with manicured gardens, fountains, and a French inspired interior. The grounds also include whimsical features like the Venus Grotto, which adds to the dreamlike vibe. Linderhof is easiest by car or guided tour, and it pairs well with a stop in Oberammergau if you want a traditional Alpine town vibe.
For something more medieval, head to Burghausen Castle on the Austrian border. It is one of the longest castle complexes in the world, stretching across a ridge with multiple courtyards. The views over the Salzach River are fantastic, and the atmosphere feels authentically fortress like. Trains from Munich take around 90 minutes, so it makes a solid day trip that many tourists skip.
How to plan the perfect castle day trip
Start early, especially for Neuschwanstein. The first trains out of Munich give you a head start on lines and make it easier to enjoy viewpoints before the area fills up. Pack layers, because weather near the Alps changes fast, and bring a small snack and water if you plan on hiking to viewpoints.
If you want a relaxed trip without logistics, guided tours can be worth it, but choose one that includes skip the line access and enough free time. If you would rather explore independently, the train and bus network is reliable, just keep an eye on last return times to avoid a stressful evening.
Finally, do not try to cram too much into one day. Neuschwanstein plus Hohenschwangau is already a full outing. If you want to add another castle, plan a second day for Linderhof or Burghausen so each place gets the time it deserves.
Conclusion
The castles near Munich are a big part of Bavaria’s magic. Neuschwanstein is the iconic star, but Hohenschwangau, Linderhof, and Burghausen offer equally memorable experiences with different moods. Plan smart, start early, and let the landscapes and history do the rest. One or two castle trips will add a true fairytale chapter to your Munich itinerary.
