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When visiting Neuschwanstein we highly recommend you plan in some time to explore the attractions near Neuschwanstein Castle as well.
As locals living close to the fairytale castle, we can share our best tips and recommendations for your travel itinerary.
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Places to Visit Near Neuschwanstein Castle
After visiting Schloss Neuschwanstein you can visit the Hohenschwangau Castle which is right next to it.
You can also stroll around Alpsee Lake to enjoy the stunning views of the Alps or visit the Museum of the Bavarian Kings.
These suggestions are all in the Castle area. But if you want to explore the surroundings here are our suggestions and favorite things to do:
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1. Explore Füssen
If you’re traveling from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, you’ll arrive in Füssen, about 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the castle.
It’s worth exploring the stunning old town of Füssen and the natural wonders surrounding the city.
Our favorite Füssen attractions include visiting the Lechfall, the Kalvarienberg mountain for the best views, and the historic city center.
Check out our best things to do in Füssen guide and see how stunning the Lechfall waterfall and the other attractions are.
2. Hopfensee Lake And Forggensee Lake
Hopfensee and Forggensee are popular lakes close to Füssen.
Hopfensee is ideal for walking, biking, and swimming. Since the lake is not very deep, it warms up quickly in the summer.
Forggensee Lake is the closest lake to Füssen. You can take a boat tour on lake Forggensee and see the Neuschwanstein Castle from the water.
You can rent a bike and bike around Forggensee. In winter, they empty the lake. At this time, you can see the remains of an ancient Roman road in Forggensee.
3. Kristalltherme Schwangau
Kristalltherme Schwangau offers a beautiful view of Neuschwanstein Castle from its outdoor pool.
Especially in the evening, the illuminated castle looks stunning from the heated pool. The Kristalltherme Schwangau also has saunas, and various indoor pools.
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4. Linderhof Palace
Linderhof Palace, like Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castel, was built by King Ludwig II.
It’s about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Füssen, depending on your route.
The most scenic route takes you through Reutte in Austria, Plansee (Austria), and the Ettal Forest (Germany) to Linderhof Palace.
Linderhof was King Ludwig’s favorite residence. In front of the palace is a beautifully landscaped park.
⭐ Good to know: Photography inside the Linderhof Palace is not allowed, similar to Neuschwanstein Castle.
While photography inside the palace is not allowed, you can take photos in the park for private use.
Linderhof Palace is generally less crowded than Neuschwanstein. Personally, I prefer the interior of Linderhof to Neuschwanstein, but it’s definitely worth visiting both if you have the time.
You can drive there or you take a guided tour. Getting there by public transport is kind of a hassle, and takes a lot of time.
5. Wieskirche Church
The Wieskirche is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Steingaden in Bavaria. The stunning rococo pilgrimage church is set close to the Alps.
The Wieskirche was built in the mid-18th century. The pilgrimage church has impressive frescoes and stucco work.
A visit to the Wieskirche gives you a unique glimpse into Bavarian history and the baroque epoque.
From Schwangau you can take the bus to Steingaden, and from there the Wieskirche.
Alternatively, you can drive there. It takes you about 25 minutes.
6. Highline179 Suspension Bridge
The highline179 is in Reutte, a city in Tyrol / Austria, 10.56 miles (17 kilometers) from Füssen. Up to 474 feet (114 meters) high, the suspension bridge connects the Ehrenberg Castle ruins with Fort Claudia.
It got its name from the B179 road that runs underneath it.
In 2014, the 1,332 feet (406 meters) long highline179 was listed in the Guinness World Records book as the “longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Tibetan style.”
7. Zugspitze – Germany’s Highest Mountain
The Zugspitze, at 9717 feet (2962 meters), is Germany’s highest mountain.
You can reach it by cable car from the German side near Garmisch-Partenkirchen or the Austrian side from Ehrwald.
From Füssen, it’s about 28 miles (45 kilometers) to the Zugspitze railway in Austria.
It takes a bit longer to reach the Zugspitze from Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
In winter, the Zugspitze is a ski area, and you can even stay in an igloo there. Read my experience about it here: Igloo Village Zugspitze: staying overnight at Germany’s highest mountain
Fun Fact: The Zugspitze is partly in Germany and partly in Austria.
8. Leutaschklamm Gorge in Mittenwald
Love exploring the outdoors? Then the Leutasch Gorge is the perfect place to visit when you’re in Germany.
The Leutaschklamm gorge is located between Mittenwald and the Seefeld region, straddling the border between Germany, and Austria.
There are three circular, easy hiking trails in total.
Read more and learn how to get there, what you need to know and why this gorge is one of the most beautiful gorges in South Germany here: Hiking the Leutasch Gorge
9. Partnachklamm Gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
The Partnachklamm in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a famous gorge in the Bavarian Alps and a must-visit when you’re in Germany.
It’s a beautiful canyon with a turquoise river, dramatic waterfalls, and impressive rock walls.
There are well-maintained pathways and bridges running next to the river making this easy hike accessible for all levels.
10. More Allgäu Attractions Close To The Neuschwanstein Castle
Here are a few more attractions in the Allgäu region:
- Tegelberg ride with views of the royal castles
- Bad Faulenbach
- Hiking on the Säuling mountain
- Driving along the Romantic Road: The Romantische Straße starts in Füssen, goes through the Allgäu, and ends in Würzburg on the Main (Mainfranken). The route is 255 miles (410 kilometers) long and features significant landmarks and beautiful cities like the medieval city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber
- Eisenberg and Hohenfreyberg Castle ruins
- Falkenstein, Germany’s highest castle ruin
- Germany’s longest zipline in Nesselwang (AlpspitzKICK)
Final Thoughts About The Best Things To Do Around Neuschwanstein
Exploring the attractions near Neuschwanstein Castle offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences. From the historic Hohenschwangau Castle, the crystal clear Alpsee Lake to the historic town of Füssen and the impressive Leutasch Gorge, there is a lot to explore.
Don’t miss out on the Linderhof Palace, the highline179 suspension bridge, and the views from Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze.
To make the most of your visit to South Germany and the fairytale castle, check out our detailed Neuschwanstein Castle travel tips and and practical advice for your trip:
Tips For Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle (Locals’s Guide)
Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter (Local’s Guide)
Can You Stay In Neuschwanstein Castle?
Can You Walk From Füssen To Neuschwanstein Castle?
Most Scenic Border Hikes Between Tyrol and Allgäu (including Neuschwanstein Castle)
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zuletzt aktualisiert am May 4, 2026