Everything you need to know before planning a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle

• Plan your route: Consider the uphill climb and decide whether it's manageable for your family. The shuttle bus is a good option as well.
• Pack light: Strollers are not ideal inside the castle due to the stairs and narrow spaces. Consider using a baby carrier if needed.
• Plan with breaks: The castle tour can last around 5 to 7 hours. Factor in breaks for restrooms and refreshments outside the castle. Pack snacks and water for the journey.
• Explore nearby castles: Located nearby, Hohenschwangau Castle was King Ludwig II's childhood residence. It might be a more manageable option with less challenging access and potentially more engaging for younger kids. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake or explore the surrounding meadows for a more relaxed and family-friendly experience.

• Mobility: Visitors in wheelchairs can tour the castle premises. There are ramps and elevators inside to help guests with mobility challenges. However, the castle is situated on top of a hill. If you have mobility limitations, consider the challenges in advance.
• Restrooms: Restrooms are available inside the castle for your convenience.
• Food and drinks: No food or drinks are allowed inside the castle. There are restaurants and cafes in the nearby village for refreshments.
• Smoking: Smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside the castle and on the castle grounds.
• Large bags and backpacks: Large bags and backpacks are not ideal for a Neuschwanstein Castle tour. You can leave them at the castle’s cloakroom, however, try not to bring them along for your convenience. 
• Pets: Except for service animals, no pets are allowed inside the castle. 

• Wear comfortable shoes: Choose your most comfortable and closed shoes to visit Neuschwanstein. The castle is situated on top of a hill and requires you to traverse through a steep and uneven terrain. The castle, itself, is spread across 65000 square feet and has nearly 200 rooms. You will have to walk a lot to explore the premises thoroughly. 
• Respect photography policies: You cannot click pictures of Neuschwanstein Castle’s interiors, however, you can take pictures and videos of its gardens and structure. Be mindful of these restrictions. 
• Choose guided tours with transfers: It is best to choose Neuschwanstein guided tours with transfers from Munich for a budget-friendly and hassle-free experience. 
• Keep a few hours on hand: There are several rooms to explore inside Neuschwanstein. The castle also has a beautiful garden with scenic pathways and trails. You need at least 5 to 7 hours to explore the castle and its surroundings. 
• Avoid large suitcases: Do not bring large bags and suitcases to your Neuschwanstein tour. You have to drop them off at the cloakroom. 

When visiting the castle, you can shop around its premises for small trinkets, postcards, stationery, and other items to remember your visit. 

• Hohenschwangau village: This village, located at the foot of the Neuschwanstein Castle hill offers the closest shopping options. Explore the main street for souvenir shops selling keychains, magnets, and postcards. You will also find shops selling traditional Bavarian clothing, cuckoo clocks, and other regional souvenirs.
• Fussen: This town, a short bus or train ride from Hohenschwangau, offers a wider range of shopping options. Here you will find a mix of souvenir shops, boutiques selling local crafts and clothing, and department stores.
• Christmas markets: If you are visiting Neuschwanstein during the winter season, make sure to explore its Christmas markets. Here you'll find a mix of souvenir shops, boutiques selling local crafts and clothing, and department stores.

• Schlossrestaurant Neuschwanstein (0.1 km away): Situated a stone's throw from the castle, this restaurant offers hearty Bavarian fare like Schweinebraten (roast pork with dumplings and gravy) and Kasespätzle (cheese spaetzle, a type of egg noodle).
• La Perla Ristorante Pizzeria (3.9 km away): La Perla offers a classic Italian dining experience, perfect for those craving a break from hearty Bavarian meals. You can try pizzas with various toppings, pasta like spaghetti carbonara or lasagna, and fresh seafood dishes. 
• Alpenstuben (0.8 km away): Just a short walk away from Neuschwanstein, this restaurant offers a traditional Bavarian dining experience. Try their sausages with sauerkraut, goulash stew, or Wienerschnitzel (breaded veal cutlet).
• Hotel Muller Restaurant Acht-Eck (0.9 km away): This restaurant also serves regional specialties. The ambiance might be more upscale compared to some other options, catering to those seeking a more refined dining experience.
• Restaurant Cafe Kainz (0.7 km away): This cafe is perfect for visitors looking to grab a small bite, take a coffee break, or have a lighter meal after exploring the castle. The menu includes comfort dishes like burgers and salads. 

• Budget stays:
  Hotel Müller (350 m)
  Zur Post Schwangau (2.3 km)
  Hotel Gasthof am See (4 km)
• Mid-range stays:
  Hotel Villa Ludwig (400 m)
  Hotel Das Rübezahl (3.2 km)
  Hotel Schlosskrone (3.8 km)
• Luxury stays:
  Hotel Hirsch (3.6 km)
  Hotel Sonne Füssen (3.8 km)
  Hotel Sommer (4.9 km)

• Linderhof Castle: Built by King Ludwig II as a private retreat, Linderhof offers a more intimate look at the king's tastes. Explore the Venus Grotto, an artificial cave complete with a shimmering boat, or wander the lush gardens adorned with fountains and sculptures.
• Hohenschwangau Castle: This palace was the childhood residence of King Ludwig II. Here, you can witness the architectural influences that would later inspire Neuschwanstein's dramatic design. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Wittelsbach dynasty and the formative years of the ‘Fairytale King.’
• Museum of the Bavarian Kings: This museum explores the rich legacy of the Wittelsbach dynasty, the royal family that ruled Bavaria for centuries. Learn about King Ludwig II's ancestors and explore exhibits showcasing royal treasures, furniture, and artworks.
• Alpsee Lake: This pristine lake, located at the foot of the Bavarian Alps, offers breathtaking scenery. Rent a rowboat to float along the calm waters or simply relax on the shore and soak in the fresh mountain air.