Neuschwanstein Castle viewpoints - the best photo spots

Neuschwanstein Castle is a dream come true from another era and is one of the most visited sights in Germany for good reason. Nestled in the landscape of the Bavarian Alps, the castle offers countless views that are difficult to capture in a single picture. To find the best Neuschwanstein Castle viewpoints and photo spots for fairytale memories, we present the most beautiful locations here.  

The best photo spots for Neuschwanstein Castle in detail  

1st the Marienbrücke - the classic  

The Marienbrücke is probably the most famous photo spot and offers the iconic view of Neuschwanstein Castle, proudly perched on its rock and surrounded by forests and mountains.   

How to get there: From the castle parking lot, you can reach the Marienbrücke in around 30 minutes on foot or by shuttle bus (in high season). Deep below the bridge, the Pöllat Gorge rushes by, while the castle in all its splendor lies directly in front of you - an unforgettable panorama that gives you the feeling of looking directly into a painting. If you visit the bridge early in the morning or during the week, you can enjoy the panorama almost undisturbed.  

Tip: For a relaxed journey directly to the castle, you can book our day tour from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, which also visits Linderhof Castle and the charming village of Oberammergau as additional highlights.  

2nd viewpoint at the Pöllat Falls - The hidden viewpoint  

The Pöllatfall is a little insider tip and offers a picturesque perspective away from the crowds.   

How to get there: Follow the signposted “Pöllatschlucht” hiking trail from the castle parking lot. The castle towers above the waterfall, which winds its way through the rocks, like something out of a fairytale book. Surrounded by dense woodland, the castle looks particularly mystical and untouched here - ideal for anyone who wants to capture the fairytale castle from a quieter angle. In spring, when the lush green of the trees is in bloom, this spot is particularly charming.  

3rd Tegelbergbahn - The panoramic view  

If you want to capture the castle in all its splendor against the mountain backdrop, you should make a note of the Tegelberg as a photo spot.   

How to get there: The valley station of the Tegelbergbahn cable car is around 10 minutes by car from the castle. From there, the cable car takes you to the summit in just a few minutes, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the castle, the surrounding lakes and the Bavarian countryside. This spot is particularly impressive in the evening, when the sun bathes the castle in golden light and makes the entire scenery shimmer like a fairy tale. 

4th Forggensee - Neuschwanstein Castle by the water  

Another picturesque viewpoint is located on the shore of Lake Forggensee.   

How to get there: From the northern or eastern shore of Lake Forggensee, you can enjoy a magical view of the castle, which is embedded in the reflections of the lake and the gentle hilly landscape, especially in summer. This spot is particularly attractive in the evening, when the light softens and the reflections on the water create fascinating effects.   

5th castle view from the Alpsee - idyll and tranquillity  

The Alpsee is an idyllic mountain lake that also offers a fantastic view of Neuschwanstein Castle.   

How to get there: The Alpsee is only a few minutes' walk from the castle parking lot. From the shores of the Alpsee, you can capture the castle together with the clear reflections of the lake, which makes for an impressive picture, especially at sunrise or sunset. This spot is perfect for romantic shots that set the castle in a tranquil and natural backdrop. 

6th Schwansee - A hidden gem  

A little off the beaten track and less well-known than the Alpsee, the Schwansee offers a peaceful, natural view of Neuschwanstein Castle.   

How to get there: The Schwansee can be reached via a footpath from the Alpsee. Due to its seclusion, this spot is particularly romantic and quiet - perfect if you want to capture the castle in a peaceful atmosphere without the hustle and bustle of visitors.  

7th Calvary - the view from above  

For those looking for a less frequented and higher vantage point, the Calvary is ideal.   

How to get there: The hiking trail starts in Hohenschwangau and leads up to a hill, from where there is a unique view of the castle and the valley. From here, you can photograph Neuschwanstein Castle from an unusual perspective and with a sweeping view of the surrounding mountains and lakes - ideal for atmospheric landscape photography and a great insider tip for photographers. 

8th Linderhof Castle and Oberammergau - romance and tradition nearby  

If you opt for a guided tour, the route will also take you to the magnificent Linderhof Castle and the historic village of Oberammergau.   

You will experience the best of the Bavarian palace world: while Linderhof Castle, which was also built by King Ludwig II, delights with its ornate gardens and grottos, Oberammergau offers an idyllic stopover with its tradition of Lüftl painting and wood carving. Even if you can't see Neuschwanstein Castle from here, both places offer unique photo opportunities and make an impressive addition to your day trip to Bavaria's most beautiful sights. 

The best times for unforgettable memories  

To get the most impressive pictures of Neuschwanstein Castle, it is worth choosing the seasons and times of day carefully:  

• Spring and autumn are ideal for capturing the castle in a colorful and natural setting.  
• Early morning hours offer a calmer atmosphere and soft light that makes the castle appear particularly delicate.  
• Winter (especially January and February) often cloaks Neuschwanstein Castle in an enchanting coat of snow, transforming it into a truly magical winter wonderland.  

With our day tour from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Castle and picturesque Oberammergau, you can experience the fascinating world of Bavarian castles in a relaxed and stress-free way. Even if not all photo spots are included in the tour, you will still enjoy impressive views of Neuschwanstein Castle as well as insights into the romance and history of this unique region. Let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the Bavarian Alps and discover a jewel that will leave you with unforgettable impressions!  

Find out more about the history of Neuschwanstein Castle and why it is considered the “real Disney castle” - a fascinating insight into the legacy of King Ludwig II and the inspiration behind the world-famous fairytale setting.