Are you looking for directions how to get from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein castle?
Look no further!
There aren’t any guided tours that directly get you from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as you might think.
You can grab a rental car with Sixt* and hit the road. It’s a pretty straightforward drive, taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes, about 220 km (136 miles) through some scenic routes.
Just make sure to pack some snacks and your favorite tunes, as it’s a full-day round trip of 5 hours going back and forth.
If you want to explore both Neuschwanstein and the Hohenschwangau castle, plan at least 3 hours for sightseeing.
From Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein with a rental car
Duration one way: 2:30 hours
Length: 220 km (136 miles)
Car rental company: Sixt*
Start your trip by taking the A8 motorway heading to Ulm. After reaching Ulm, switch over to the A7 highway towards Fuessen. This route takes you deep into the heart of Bavaria, with its charming villages and verdant landscapes.
Continue following the A7 until you reach the exit for Füssen. From there, it’s a short drive along the B17 road to Schwangau, where you’ll see signs for Neuschwanstein Castle.
As you drive, keep in mind that it’s a journey, not a race, so take breaks as needed and soak in the German vistas.
Once you arrive in Hohenschwangau, you can park your rental car in one of the parking lots such as P1. Then you can either walk up the hill, take a horse carriage or the bus.
From Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein by train
Duration one way: Approximately 4 hours (Please calculate more time in case of delays and train changes – this it quite normal for the German train system!)
Cost: at least 49 Euros
Starting your journey from Stuttgart, take a train to Augsburg. From Augsburg, change trains and continue your journey towards Buchloe. At Buchloe, hop on another train to Füssen. Once you reach Füssen, you will need to take a bus to get to Neuschwanstein.
Due to the number of changes and overall duration, you might consider turning this into a two-day trip rather than attempting to make it a day trip. Check out these beautiful hotels with a view to Neuschwanstein castle!
If you still decide on a day trip, start early to spend ample time at the castle and make sure to check the train schedules for your return trip.
Things to keep in mind when planning a Neuschwanstein castle tour from Stuttgart
- If you want to see the interior of Neuschwanstein castle, you have to get a ticket for a guided tour
- BUT: you can visit the castle grounds of Neuschwanstein without a ticket
- Hike up to the Marienbrücke to take stunning photo of Neuschwanstein
- When tickets to Neuschwanstein are sold out, there are alternative options than the official webpage to get tickets
- When getting to Neuschwanstein by train, factor in that there might be delays as the German train system is not very punctual
- This is actually a complete day trip from Stuttgart, you may want to stay in one of the hotels near Neuschwanstein
- You are not allowed to take pictures inside of the castle – bummer, so they are just for your memories only!
FAQ: Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein castle
What is the fastest way to get to Neuschwanstein castle from Stuttgart?
The fastest way to get from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein Castle is to rent a car. Depending on traffic, the drive could take as little as 2.5 hours.
Are there any cost-effective options to reach Neuschwanstein from Stuttgart?
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly way to reach Neuschwanstein from Stuttgart, consider taking public transportation. The most cost-effective option is likely taking the train, which may take a little longer, but you’ll get to enjoy some pretty sweet scenery along the way.
Are there any guided tours from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein castle?
No, there are any guided tours available directly from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein castle. You can still plan your own trip and take a rental car from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein which is 220 km (136 miles) away.
Final thoughts How to get from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein castle
When planning a day trip from Stuttgart to Neuschwanstein Castle, please be aware that there are no guided tours. You will have to manage this trip by yourself. But you can do it!
The easiest and most flexible way to get to the castle is by rental car which can be rented with Sixt – family owned rental car business*.
Driving gives you the freedom to set your own schedule, take in the beautiful scenery along the way, and make a pitstop whenever you want.
Plus, it’s super convenient. You can book a rental car online, pick it up in Stuttgart, and head straight for the castle.
If you rather take the train, please calculate for a 2 day trip in total as there might be delays.
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