24 Destinations Near Neuschwanstein Castle: Germany and Austria

With Neuschwanstein Castle’s fairytale charm, breathtaking location, and intriguing history, it’s easy to see why millions go to the Southern Germany and Bavarian Alps every year just to see Neuschwanstein Castle.

However, some people travel just solely to see the castle alone. When I hear this, I can’t help but feel a bit sad. They’re missing out on so much more! Like, did you know the area around Neuschwanstein Castle is dotted with interesting places to explore?

If they took the time to visit these nearby attractions, their trip would have been even more memorable. And the best part? Two or three of these places are just a stone’s throw away from the castle!

If you’re planning a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, I highly recommend exploring the nearby attractions as well. You might be wondering where these places are. Don’t worry, this post will guide you.

Tip: Planning a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle and its surrounding attractions but pressed for time? A group tour or a private day trip could be your solution. They take care of all the details, including transportation and tickets, so you can just enjoy the experience.

A lot of people start their journey to Neuschwanstein Castle or the Bavarian Alps from Munich. If you’re planning the same, and haven’t booked a place to stay yet, you can find some great hotel deals right here.

Part 1 — Beautiful Tourist Attractions Near Neuschwanstein Castle

In some instances, you might need an entire day to fully experience Neuschwanstein Castle. For example, if you plan to tour the castle, hike to the viewpoints, and find the perfect spot in Hohenschwangau for photographing the castle, it could easily fill your day.

But remember, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all plan. For many, a castle tour and a quick visit to one or two viewpoints is more than enough. If that’s your plan, you’ll likely have some time left in your day.

This is when you can explore other attractions near Neuschwanstein Castle. These destinations are conveniently located within walking distance from Neuschwanstein Castle, or at most, an hour’s drive away.

1. Hohenschwangau Castle

You don’t need to leave Hohenschwangau, the village where Neuschwanstein Castle is located, to find another place to explore. The village boasts a castle named after itself, Hohenschwangau Castle. It is very close to Neuschwanstein Castle.

The two castles are approximately 2 kilometers or 1.2 miles apart. In fact, you can walk from one castle to the other in about 40 minutes! Don’t like walking? You can take a shuttle bus or a horse carriage to Neuschwanstein Castle. However, a walk of about 15 minutes is still required to reach the entrance.

Hohenschwangau Castle was the childhood home of King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who later built the famous Neuschwanstein Castle nearby. It was originally a medieval fortress, but it was rebuilt by Ludwig’s father, King Maximilian II, in a neo-Gothic style. The castle is decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from German legends and history, as well as portraits of the royal family.

One of the main attractions of Hohenschwangau Castle is its stunning views of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and forests. You can see the Alps, the Alpsee lake, and the Neuschwanstein Castle from the castle windows and balconies. You can also explore the castle gardens, the museum of the Bavarian kings, and the nearby village of Hohenschwangau.

Another reason to visit Hohenschwangau Castle is to learn more about the life and personality of Ludwig II, who was known as the “Fairy Tale King” for his love of art, music, and fantasy. You can take a guided tour of the castle and discover his childhood, his interests, and his mysterious death.

If you plan to visit both castles in one day, it’s advisable to purchase your tickets in advance from the online ticket shop. These castles are very popular and tickets often sell out quickly.

When you book your tour to Neuschwanstein Castle online, the entrance and tours to Hohenschwangau Castle are offered at the same time. Therefore, it’s unlikely that you’ll miss the opportunity to visit Hohenschwangau Castle when you visit Neuschwanstein Castle.

Learn more: Official website of Hohenschwangau.

2. Museum of the Bavarian Kings

Still in Hohenschwangau, you’ll find another point of interest near the Neuschwanstein Castle — the Museum of the Bavarian Kings. This museum is conveniently located a mere stone’s throw away from Hohenschwangau Castle. It’s nestled right next to Alpsee and parking lot P4 of the village.

If you find yourself at the ticketing center of Neuschwanstein Castle, a short 5-minute walk will bring you to the Museum of the Bavarian Kings.

In a nutshell, the Museum of the Bavarian Kings in Hohenschwangau offers a glimpse into the history of the Wittelsbach Dynasty, one of Europe’s oldest. However, the museum is renowned for its exhibits on Maximilian II and his son, King Ludwig II.

In case you’re not yet aware, Maximilian II is known for transforming Hohenschwangau Castle into his summer residence, while King Ludwig II is celebrated as the visionary behind Neuschwanstein Castle. The museum employs modern interactive technologies to bring these narratives to life.

In my opinion, this museum is a fantastic destination not only for those looking to spend some time before or after touring Neuschwanstein Castle or Hohenschwangau Castle, but also for those keen on gaining deeper insights into the monarchs of Bavaria. It complements well the overall experience that awaits you in the castles.

More information about the Museum of the Bavarian Kings here.

3. Alpsee

Imagine standing on the balcony of Neuschwanstein Castle. As you look around, you’re greeted with views that take your breath away. The Alps stretch out in front of you, their majestic peaks touching the sky. Now, shift your gaze a bit, and there it is — Alpsee.

Alpsee is a lake nestled in Hohenschwangau that I find particularly captivating. When you visit, you’ll be greeted not only by the graceful swans but also by the view of majestic castles of King Ludwig. For photography enthusiasts, there’s an opportunity to capture both Hohenschwangau Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle in one frame. You can rent boats to get the best angle for this breathtaking view.

The lake features a large jetty and a swimming island, adding fun to the scene. There’s also a kiosk at the lakeside resort where you can enjoy cool drinks, small snacks, and coffee. It’s an amazing way to rest and relax after exploring the main attractions in Hohenschwangau.

What’s so nice about Alpsee is its convenient location within Hohenschwangau. Imagine you’re at the Hohenschwangau ticketing center. Just a brief walk from there, and you’ll find yourself by this stunning lake.

You can learn more about the boat rental in Alpsee here.

4. High Castle of Füssen

As a history enthusiast, Europe is a vast playground. Every town appears to be a station for fun, especially those that boast a castle, such as Hohenschwangau.

Did you know there’s another town near Hohenschwangau that also features a castle? This town, renowned for its High Castle, is named Füssen. And obviously, the High Castle of Füssen is another attraction that you can conveniently include in your itinerary during a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, thanks to their close proximity.

If you’re traveling by car, you can reach Füssen from Hohenschwangau in just 5 minutes. If you’re using public transportation, such as buses, the travel time is approximately 10 minutes.

In a short summary, the High Castle of Füssen is a fascinating destination that takes you back to the 13th century. This castle, one of Bavaria’s best-preserved medieval structures, was once the summer residence of the Prince-Bishops of Augsburg. Today, it’s home to the branch gallery of the Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen and the Städtische Galerie.

The castle’s fame stems from its status as one of the most significant secular buildings from the German late Gothic period. It’s particularly known for its illusionary paintings in the inner courtyard, which showcase the artistic prowess of the era.

During your visit, you can wander through the battlements and towers, climb up to the sixth floor of the gate tower for a breathtaking view of the city, or even visit the Veitskapelle, one of the highest castle chapels in Germany. The museum within the castle offers a glimpse into the art of the 15th and 16th centuries in the Allgäu and Bavarian-Swabia.

Don’t miss the “Knight’s Hall” with its intricately carved coffered ceiling. And if you’re a fan of gardens, you’ll love the newly laid out terrace garden filled with medicinal and aromatic plants.

Discover the things that you can see inside the High Castle of Füssen from Füssen official website.

5. Tegelberg

If you’re a traveler seeking outdoor adventures near Neuschwanstein Castle, Tegelberg is a destination worth considering. Its proximity to the castle is convenient, with just a 15-minute bus ride from Hohenschwangau on bus number 78 or 73, followed by a cable ride from Tegelbergbahn Talstation. Alternatively, you could opt for a 2.5-hour hike from Neuschwanstein Castle’s Marienbrücke.

Once you reach Tegelberg’s peak, which is situated at an impressive 1,881 meters above sea level, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking panorama. From the rugged mountain ranges of Austria to the vast flat plains of Bavaria, the view is nothing short of spectacular.

And the cherry on top? There’s a restaurant right at the peak of Tegelberg. So, not only will your eyes feast on the stunning scenery, but you can also satisfy your hunger with some delicious food. It’s a win-win situation!

For more information, please check the official website of Tegelberg.

6. Hopfensee

After a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, consider a trip to Hopfensee. This shallow lake, nestled near the castle, offers expansive views of the Allgäu Alps from its northern shore. It’s a destination worth visiting for its picturesque scenery alone.

On calm days at Hopfensee, you can see the mountains mirrored on the lake’s surface – a fantastic sight indeed. The lake is lined with waterfront restaurants and hotels, where you can unwind while taking in the view of the shimmering lake water and the German countryside.

Hopfensee is not just about the views, though. It offers a range of fun activities. In the summer, you can go boating, sailing, or windsurfing. In the winter, you can ice skate over the frozen lake.

Getting to Hopfensee is straightforward. If you’re starting from Hohenschwangau, take bus nos. 78/73/72 to Fussen. From Fussen, ride bus no. 56 to Hopfen. The journey should take around 20 minutes if you choose the best bus schedule to match the bus transfer. If you’re driving, the trip should take no more than 15 minutes under ideal conditions.

Keep in mind that while bus nos. 78/73/72 run every 30 minutes, bus line 56 only departs from Fussen every 3 hours. But don’t worry, Fussen is a charming town with plenty to explore. You can discover beautiful houses while waiting for your bus transfer. For bus schedules and offers, check out banh.com.

7. Linderhof Palace

Neuschwanstein Castle is not the only cultural heritage that shines like a gem in the midst of the mountains of the Bavarian Alps. Linderhof Palace is another one. It can be reached from Hohenschwangau within an hour by car.

Linderhof Palace is one of the three stately landmarks that King Ludwig II built, like Neuschwanstein Castle. It is the smallest palace among the three, but it is also the most complete. Ludwig lived here and saw it finished.

When you visit, surely you’ll notice that Linderhof Palace looks like a French palace.

This is because Ludwig admired the French king Louis XIV, who had a lot of power and money and said “I am the state”. Ludwig wanted to imitate him, so he made his palace very elegant and dazzling. He used gold, mirrors, porcelain, and paintings to decorate his palace.

You will love visiting Linderhof Palace because it is not just a palace; it is also a park with many amazing things to see.

Did you know Ludwig loved the operas of Richard Wagner, who was a famous composer? So, he made his park look like the scenes from Wagner’s operas. He had fountains, statues, caves, and buildings that were very romantic and magical. He even had a boat that looked like a shell and a cave that had lights and music!

In the park, you can go to the Venus Grotto, which is a cave that Ludwig made. He liked to go there and listen to Wagner’s music and watch the lights change. You can also see the Moroccan House, the Moorish Kiosk, the Hunding’s Hut, and the Hermitage of Gurnemanz — the buildings that Ludwig bought or built to make his park more interesting and exotic.

To learn more, please check the official website of Linderhof Palace.

8. Eibsee

Eibsee is located a few mountains away from both Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein Castle. Despite the distance, it’s possible to reach it by car in roughly an hour. Because of this, we can still consider Eibsee as one of the destinations near Neuschwanstein Castle. However, the shortest journey to Eibsee involves crossing German-Austria border twice.

Today, Eibsee considered one of Germany’s most beautiful places and a haven for nature enthusiasts. Weather permitting, Eibsee is a place of breathtaking beauty, where the water’s crystal clear surface mirrors the sky’s blue, and the towering Zugspitze mountain adds a majestic backdrop.

The variety of activities Eibsee offers is what makes a visit more exciting. Picture yourself hiking around the lake, following a trail that offers scenic views at every turn. The trail is about 7.1 km long and can be completed in roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes at a moderate pace. If you’re into water sports, you can go kayaking on the lake.

For more information about Eibsee, I suggest checking its official website.

9. Zugspitze

Once you’ve reached Eibsee from either Hohenschwangau or Neuschwanstein Castle, you’re just a ride away from Zugspitze, the highest mountain in Germany. This journey is made possible by the Eibsee-Seilbahn cable car. The cable car offers a swift and scenic ride of approximately 10 minutes. It begins at the lake, which sits at the foot of Zugspitze, and takes you directly to the peak.

Why should you be excited to visit? Picture this: the thrill of standing at Germany’s highest point, taking in the breathtaking landscape. While the scenery may not match that of Switzerland or the Italian Dolomites, it’s still a paradise for nature lovers.

And there’s no shortage of things to do here. You can explore the mountain’s trails, visit the environmental research station at the Schneefernerhaus, or even hit the slopes for some skiing during the winter.

Hungry after all that adventure? Stop by the Münchner Haus or the Wiener-Neustädter Hut for a bite to eat. And don’t forget to take a ride on one of the three cable cars to the top of Zugspitze for a unique perspective of the mountain and its surroundings.

For more information, here is Zugspitze’s official website.

Part 2 — Beautiful Towns or Cities Near Neuschwanstein Castle

If you’re interested in discovering charming towns and impressive cities before or after your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, there are several options available to you.

In fact, some of these locations offer convenient public transportation to Hohenschwangau or are just an hour’s drive away from Neuschwanstein Castle. If you want, you can use these towns or cities as your base for exploring Neuschwanstein Castle and the other nearby attractions mentioned a while ago.

10. Fussen

Füssen is one of the adorable towns in Bavaria; a major hub for violin making, thanks to the spruce from the nearby forests makes for some really resonant instruments. Today, it’s a popular stop for most bus tours heading to the famous Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles.

In Füssen, there’s so much to see and do. Some activities are simple, yet if you love exploring, they can bring you delight!

The town center is a must-visit with its baroque churches and gothic houses. And if you’re into history, you’ll love the Museum der Stadt Füssen. It showcases the town’s past as a major center for violin and lute making. Oh, and you can’t miss St Mang’s Abbey. It’s home to the oldest fresco in Germany. Of course, it is here that you can find the High Castle which we discussed earlier.

If you’re wondering how far it is from Neuschwanstein Castle, it’s not far at all. We’re talking about a distance of roughly 3.2 miles (5.2 kilometers). If you’re driving, you’ll be there in about 14 minutes. If you’re not up for driving, you can always take the bus. Just hop on bus number 78 from Hohenschwangau and you’ll be in Füssen in around 10 minutes.

Learn more from the official website of Füssen.

11. Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a popular holiday spot in Germany, especially if you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or hiking. Undoubtedly, it’s got some of the best skiing areas in the whole country. And here’s a fun fact: it was the site of the 1936 Winter Olympics, the first to feature alpine skiing.

Now, let’s talk about what you can do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Of course, if you’re a mountain lover, you’re in for a treat in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The town has a huge trail network for hiking and world-class skiing facilities.

And the town itself is split into two distinct areas: Garmisch, which is trendy and urban, and Partenkirchen, which has retained its old-world Bavarian charm. When you visit them, have your cameras prepared because the streets are nothing short of picture-perfect!

How far is Neuschwanstein Castle and Garmisch-Partenirchen? We’re talking about a distance of roughly 38.5 miles (61.9 kilometers). If you’re driving, you’ll be there in about 53 minutes. But hey, if you’re not up for driving, you can always take the bus. Just hop on bus 9606 from Hohenschwangau and you’ll be in Garmisch-Partenkirchen in around 2 hours and 7 minutes.

You can read my Garmisch-Partenkirchen guide to learn more about this town.

12. Mittenwald

Nestled at the base of the Karwendel mountain range, you’ll find the picturesque alpine village of Mittenwald. This place is a real gem, known for its beautifully painted houses, a tradition known as Lüftlmalerei. Like Fussen, Mittenwald has been Germany’s super star in violin-making industry for over 300 years.

When you visit Mittenwald, you can find several things to do within and outside the village. You can explore the Violin Making Museum, stroll through the old village center to admire the Lüftlmalerei, or take the Karwendelbahn lift for a breathtaking view.

If you’re into skiing, the Dammkar Ski Route is a must. And don’t miss the Hummock Meadows, Ski Route Dammkar, and Leutasch Gorge. They’re all part of the natural attractions that make Mittenwald so special.

Mittenwald is about 80 kilometers away from Neuschwanstein Castle, which is roughly 50 miles. If you’re driving, it’ll take you around 1 hour and 9 minutes. But if you prefer public transportation, you can take a bus from Hohenschwangau, Königsschl. to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which takes about 2 hours and 7 minutes. From there, you can hop on a train to Mittenwald.

Here’s my list of things to do in Mittenwald to see whether it is worth visiting.

13. Oberammergau

At the foothills of the Bavarian Alps lies Oberammergau, a town with rich cultural and artistic heritage. It’s best known for its centuries-old tradition of woodcarving, intricate frescoes, and the world-renowned Passion Play performed every ten years.

Oberammergau is a must-visit, especially during the Passion Play. But how about outside of this event? Well, the town is still worth exploring. In the regular season, Oberammergau reveals itself as a hub of art and craftsmanship, ready for you to uncover.

During your visit, you’ll find skilled artists creating beautiful handicrafts — like all sorts of religious wood carved artworks. Don’t miss the Parish Church St. Peter and Paul, adorned with jaw-dropping frescoes. And the town’s beautiful façade painting, known as Lüftlmalerei, brings biblical scenes, peasant paintings, classic representations, and even fairy tales to life.

Getting to Oberammergau from Neuschwanstein Castle is a breeze. It’s just 28.7 miles (46.2 kilometers) away, a scenic 43-minute drive. If you prefer public transportation, hop on the Regionalverkehr Oberbayern GmbH (RVO/RVA) bus from Hohenschwangau. It’s a comfortable ride, taking around 1 hour and 35 minutes.

There is more to discover about Oberammergau. Here are my 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Oberammergau.

14. Munich

Munich, the heart of Bavaria, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and a unique blend of traditional and modern architecture. It’s home to the world-famous Oktoberfest, Germany’s grand beer festival.t

In Munich, from the vibrant Marienplatz to the stunning architecture of the Neues Rathaus and Peterskirche, there’s plenty to see. Don’t miss the Munich Residenz and the Nymphenburg Palace, both exuding with beauty. Nature lovers will enjoy the Westpark and the English Garden, one of the world’s largest urban parks. Lastly, car enthusiasts should make a stop at BMW Welt.

Getting to Munich from Neuschwanstein Castle is straightforward. It’s just 76.4 miles (123 kilometers) away, a scenic drive of about 1 hour and 48 minutes. If you’re traveling by public transportation, the FlixBus from Hohenschwangau will get you to Munich in around 2 hours and 5 minutes.

If you will be visiting Munich, check out my 10 most beautiful places in Munich.

15. Bregenz

Bregenz, known as the City by the Lake, is a gem nestled in Austria’s westernmost region, Vorarlberg. It’s a town that has seen the passage of time from the Bronze Age, with its roots tracing back to a Celtic fortress. Today, it’s a bustling hub with Austria’s most significant harbour and the globally renowned Bregenz Festival.

During your trip to Bregenz, you have several things to do that are relaxing and amazing.

What should you not miss? Definitely, the leisurely walk along the Bregenz Lake Promenade, where the lake’s beauty unfolds before your eyes. Then, the bird’s eye view of the town and the lake from Pfänder Mountain. For architecture fans, the Vorarlberg Museum in the town centre is a must-see.

If you’re visiting in July or August, don’t miss the Bregenz Festival, one of Europe’s most attended events!

Now, if you’re wondering about the journey from Neuschwanstein Castle to Bregenz, it’s a scenic drive of about 75.5 kilometers (or 47 miles). By car, it will take you around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

However, if you’re leaning towards public transportation, do keep in mind that the journey from Hohenschwangau to Bregenz might be a bit lengthy. The route includes stops at Füssen, Kaufbeuren, and Lindau-Reutin, and the entire trip is likely to take around 4 hours and 13 minutes.

Discover more from the official website of Bregenz Tourism.

16. Innsbruck

Innsbruck, the jewel of the Austrian Alps, is a city that effortlessly combines the urban and the natural. Its charming architecture, set against the backdrop of jagged alpine peaks, is a sight to behold.

When you visit Innsbruck, there are a few experiences you simply can’t miss. The city’s iconic “Golden Roof” is a relic from Austria’s Imperial days and hosts a traditional Christmas market.

If you’re a fan of winter sports, you’ll be thrilled to know that Innsbruck has twice been the host of the Winter Olympics.

And for a breathtaking panoramic view of the Alpine landscapes, take a ride on the Nordkette cable car, a marvel of modern design by architect Zaha Hadid.

Now, if you’re planning to visit Innsbruck from Neuschwanstein Castle, it’s a relatively short journey. The castle is about 36.39 miles (or 58.57 kilometers) away from Innsbruck, and it takes roughly 1 hour and 24 minutes to drive there.

But if you’re thinking of taking public transportation, do keep in mind that it’s a bit of a longer journey. You’ll need to catch a bus from Hohenschwangau to Garmisch-Partenkirchen station, and then another bus to Innsbruck. This route usually takes around 4 hours and 17 minutes.

Plan your visit to Innsbruck using the official website of Innsbruck.

Part 3 — Other Beautiful Destination in Southern Germany Aside from Neuschwanstein Castle

The towns nestled in the Bavarian Alps and Austria are indeed remarkable destinations to pair with a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle. Their proximity, ease of transportation, and the brief drive between them make these locations particularly appealing.

However, if you’re planning an extended trip, it might be worth exploring other towns in Southern Germany. These places, each with their unique charm and attractions, could add a different dimension to your travel experience.

Discover: Most Beautiful Places in Southern Germany.

17. Berchtesgaden

Nestled at the southeastern corner of Germany, Berchtesgaden is a gem surrounded by the stunning Berchtesgaden Alps and Austria’s picturesque landscapes. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Salzburg, Austria, making it easily accessible for travelers flying in.

In a nutshell, Berchtesgaden is a destination for people who want a blend natural beauty and historical intrigue. It’s home to ancient salt mines that date back to the 12th century, the breathtaking Berchtesgaden National Park, and the Kehlsteinhaus, also known as the Eagle’s Nest. Eagle’s Nest was an old meeting place for the Nazi’s back in the day.

Why visit Berchtesgaden? Imagine immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the Königssee, a deep lake cradled by the Berchtesgaden Alps. Picture exploring the Gaststätte St. Bartholomä (the photo above), a religious site that promises adventure. With all that you can find here, Berchtesgaden is definitely a destination that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.

For more information about Berchtesgaden, you can refer to my articles which explain why Berchtesgaden is worth visiting and the guide to its most stunning viewpoints. I have also linked a 3-day Bavarian Alps itinerary at the beginning of this article, which will show you how to visit both Neuschwanstein Castle and Berchtesgaden.

18. Black Forest

Nestled in the southwest corner of Germany, in the state of Baden-Württemberg, you’ll find the enchanting Black Forest, or Schwarzwald. It’s just a short hour drive from Stuttgart, the nearest city with an airport.

To me, the Black Forest is a unique destination, known for its dense, dark, and mysterious pine forests. It’s a place where tradition thrives, evident in the deep-roofed farmhouses, cuckoo clocks, and half-timbered villages. And indeed, visiting the Black Forest is like stepping into a fairy tale.

The scenic drives along the designated tourism routes in the Black Forest and the majestic Triberg Waterfalls, one of Germany’s highest, are truly unmissable. And let’s not forget the famous Black Forest cherry cake that originated here!

There isn’t a direct public transportation route from Neuschwanstein Castle to the Black Forest. However, a road trip along the scenic Bodensee shores could provide an enjoyable journey.

Interested in the Black Forest? Start by checking the unique things to do in the Black Forest or the most beautiful towns in the Black Forest.

19. Lichtenstein Castle

Tucked away in the Swabian Jura of southern Germany, you’ll find Lichtenstein Castle, a stone’s throw away from Honau, Reutlingen. It’s a quick hop from Stuttgart, the nearest city with an airport.

Lichtenstein Castle is a sight to behold, with its Gothic Revival architecture that leaps straight out of Wilhelm Hauff’s 1826 novel “Lichtenstein”. Built in 1842, this privately-owned gem is a living tribute to the chivalrous spirit of the Middle Ages.

Why visit Lichtenstein Castle? Like the experience in Neuschwanstein Castle or the Black Forest, imagine stepping into a fairy tale. The castle’s outer wall, perched on a cliff edge, offers views that will take your breath away. Inside, you’ll find walls adorned with medieval-style paintings and a tranquil garden. The journey up to the castle is an enchanting experience you won’t want to miss.

To me, Lichtenstein Castle is a must-visit, particularly for those embarking on a castle tour in Southern Germany. However, if you want to go straight to Lichtenstein Castle from Neuschwanstein Castle, you can expect a 2.5-hour drive.

Anyhow, much like its famous sibling, Neuschwanstein, a visit to Lichtenstein Castle is made even more rewarding by the surrounding attractions. These can be explored once you’ve had your fill of the castle’s charm.

20. Wurzburg

Located in the northern part of Bavaria, Southern Germany, Würzburg is a city steeped in history. It’s conveniently close to Frankfurt am Main, which is the nearest city with an airport.

Actually, Würzburg is a city that you won’t like to miss for its stunning architectural landmarks. The Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace listed by UNESCO, is a sight to behold. Another significant landmark is the Marienburg Fortress, which offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating history.

What sets Würzburg apart is its vibrant wine culture. The city is at the heart of the Franconian Wine Region, and wine tasting here is an experience like no other. So, why not take the opportunity to explore this unique city and create some unforgettable memories?

Here is my Wurzburg Travel Guide to help you discover the 5 reasons why Wurzburg is worth visiting and 20 things to do in this town. Fun fact, Wurzburg and Neuschwanstein Castle are both included in Germany’s Romantic Road.

21. Bamberg

Situated in northern Bavaria is the picturesque town of Bamberg. It’s conveniently close to Nuremberg, the nearest city with an airport.

Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a hub of history and remarkable architecture. It’s often likened to the ‘Rome of Franconia’ due to its seven hills, each topped with a beautiful church. And if you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled by its unique beer culture, with traditional breweries scattered throughout the town.

As an explorer, to me, Bamberg is a paradise. The medieval layout, the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), and Bamberg Cathedral are sights you won’t want to miss here. For a truly unique experience, consider taking a gondola ride, wandering through the hop fields, or embarking on a Beer Hike through the Franconian fields, stopping at various local breweries.

Neuschwanstein Castle and Bamberg may be hundreds of kilometers apart, but with its blend of history, culture, and beer, Bamberg promises a journey that’s anything but ordinary. You can check my guide to show you why Bamberg is worth visiting.

22. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Like Neuschwanstein Castle, Rothenburg ob der Tauber in Franconia, northern Bavaria, is one of the ultimate destinations in Germany. Like Wurzburg and Neuschwanstein Castle, it belongs to the “romantic route,” perfect for everyone aiming to have a memorable trip in Germany. Nuremberg, just a 1.5-hour drive away, is the nearest city with an airport.

For me, Rothenburg ob der Tauber stands out as a destination on Germany’s Romantic Road tourist route. It’s one of only three places in Germany that still have intact medieval walls. You’ll absolutely love wandering through its streets, which are lined with half-timbered houses. The 13th-century Town Hall and a variety of charming old churches are must-see attractions.

When you visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber, you’ll feel as if you’ve traveled back in time. You can have that feeling when you walk along the town’s fully intact medieval walls. It’s a glimpse into medieval German life that history enthusiasts will find fascinating.

I suggest reading my guide to Rothenburg ob der Tauber and its 27 tourist attractions and activities. It’s designed to ensure you get the most out of your visit to this charming town. With this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to explore everything Rothenburg ob der Tauber has to offer.

23. Nuremberg

Nuremberg is definitely one of the most colorful cities of northern Bavaria. This beautiful city, situated along the Pegnitz River and the Rhine–Main–Danube Canal, is about 170 kilometers north of Munich.

While Nuremberg has stunning architecture, the city is more known for its rich cultural heritage. The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg, a significant symbol of the Holy Roman Empire, and the National Germanic Museum, the largest museum of German art and culture, are among its most famous landmarks.

Nuremberg is also deeply intertwined with the history of the Nazi era. The Nazi Party Rally Grounds, where Hitler rallied the masses, are a sobering reminder of this dark period. Exploring these grounds and the Documentation Center, which provides a comprehensive history of the Nazi regime, is an unmissable experience for those interested in history.

Visiting Germany in December? You must know that Nuremberg hosts one of the country’s largest Christmas markets!

There is so much to know more about Nuremberg. Here are my 15 reasons to visit Nuremberg to guide you to each interesting aspect of visiting this city.

Suppose you’re planning a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich. Once you’ve experienced the castle’s grandeur, Nuremberg could be your next stop!

24. Stuttgart

If you’re looking for a change of scenery and a comprehensive trip in Southern Germany, including Neuschwanstein Castle, consider a visit to Stuttgart. This interesting city, located in the state of Baden-Württemberg, nestles between the Black Forest and the Swabian Alp.

To put it simply, Stuttgart is a hub of commerce and the cradle of the automobile industry, home to Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. It’s also known for its lively arts scene, cultural diversity, and numerous music festivals.

A visit to Stuttgart promises a unique blend of innovation and tradition. Take a trip up the Fernsehturm Stuttgart, the world’s first television tower, for breathtaking views of the city and the Black Forest. The Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museum, which traces over 130 years of automotive history, is must-see. And for something a bit different, check out the Pig Museum, a former pig slaughterhouse now housing a vast collection of pig-themed artifacts.

While Neuschwanstein Castle is often recommended as a travel destination, Stuttgart may not be on many itineraries. This could be because people are unaware of what makes this city interesting. A list of the top 10 things to do in Stuttgart can shed light on why it’s worth visiting.

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