Hello!
We were unable to get tickets ahead of time for the castles, and are looking at doing the train/bus journey on our own without a tour from Munich as a day trip. Anyone have experience going this time of year and how quickly the on site passes sell out for day of visits?
Also, is it possible to book our train back to Munich same day as we are unsure of when we’ll be headed back? Or do the more favorable train times sell out? Traveling 4 people.
Thank you!
If it makes you feel any better, IMHO, the N'stein tour is just not that great, the site is very touristy, and if I had to do it over again, I wouldn't. Lots of lines and crowds and walking was my experience.
I think the ticket office opens at 8:am for unassigned tickets, but be there 30-45 minutes before that, as for us, the line was an hour long at 8:00am. Then you have to take the times that are available, which might not be for several more hours.
Perhaps the system has changed, hopefully someone here can chime in.
Good luck!
The actual tour is very short; it’s 30 min or so and it’s not interactive and devoid of personality. It does allow you to see the inside and there is beautiful craftsmanship in the building.
You should consider the Bavaria ticket for your ticket to Neuschwanstein as it could save you money. It does have time restrictions in the morning on weekdays so check (I think you can’t leave before 9AM). Does not have the same restrictions on weekends but there could be larger crowds. Also you may choose not to do this if you want to get in because if you get there later, you may not get tickets.
The castle does have a “touristy” feel to it but that does not change the fact that it is pretty and in a beautiful setting. And you are a tourist, anyway. I think you could still have a nice time, even if you don’t get the tour. There is walking (mild hiking) and stairs as was mentioned ( even more if you choose to hike up rather than take the bus or carriage), but I found it quite nice to be walking in the Alps and a nice adventure, unlike other things we did in Munich.
This was one of our favorite days in Munich area (top was Bayern Munich soccer match). And I rank it high because of the outdoor beauty in the area and the castle is nice as well.
Honestly, Hohenschwangau is IMO way better than Neuschwanstein. The best part of Neuschwanstein is the surrounding trails; for which you don’t need a ticket.
