Neuschwanstein Castle

 Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

In the village of Hohenschwangau, Germany sits the castle that inspired the Disney castle -- the Neuschwanstein Castle.  You can purchase tickets and get more information here:

Neuschwanstein Castle

In May of 2024 my son and his family brought me on a European road trip through 9 European countries.  While driving through Germany, we went to visit the Disney Castle.  We didn't arrive with enough time to go inside, but we did run up the trail to see the castle before they closed the gate.  It is about a 40 minute hike, or under a mile, all uphill to reach it.  It was quite a work-out!  But totally worth it!  It is open from 9 in the morning until 6 in the afternoon.  You can only go inside on a guided tour.  There is also the Hohenschwangau Castle nearby.  

The Disney Castle

The real Disney Castle in Germany

My son and grandson and I at the Disney Castle in Germany

View of the castle from the road on the way into Hohenschwangau

After parking in Hohenschwangau, as you begin the hike up to the castle you get glimpses of the castle every now and then

The paved trail

The side of the castle

The entrance to the castle

The back of the castle

My grandson was easily distracted along the trail

beautiful view from the castle

Naturally we couldn't resist a selfie as well

Places to Eat

We ate at the Ristorante Pizzeria Michelangelo in Fussen and it was very good.  They have gluten-free options, which my daughter-in-law appreciated.