A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle has long been on my bucket list of places to visit. It first started with my love of Disneyland, and how Walt Disney modelled Sleeping Beauty’s Castle after its architecture. Then again as I grew older, as my interest in Bavaria and the surrounding countryside grew. Through it all, there has always been something magical and whimsical about it, and in December 2024, I was finally able to visit.
Magic Abounds
When I finally arrived, around 10cm of fresh snow had settled on the ground, and the castle looked like it had stepped straight out of a fantasy novel. Winter adds a layer of magic here, transforming every angle into a postcard-worthy scene. Photographing the castle in snowfall requires a blend of patience and timing.
The iconic Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) viewpoint offers breathtaking compositions—but in winter, it’s often closed due to icy conditions. This time was no different. The horse drawn carriage was popular this morning, so we decided to make the hike up the hill. While I managed to keep my running shoes relatively dry, it was a hike still fraught with slippery steps.
Sure, it was a bit of a hike, and slippery at times, but it was magical, and fun. Snow falling from the trees above us made for a bit of fun – the kids dodging the regular snow drop that brought with it a brief white-out. All in all, the path was well-kept and didn’t deter us from having a bit of a hike to soak it all in.
Don’t let bad weather deter you
The Neuschwanstein Castle, and the surrounding area, in winter isn’t just a destination—it’s a photographer’s dreamland. And in the quiet after a snowfall, the castle feels less like a tourist attraction and more like a secret, waiting to be captured.
Don’t be deterred if the weather isn’t entirely cooperating on a day you choose to visit. Even on the worst of days, it’s still worth a visit. Be sure to plan ahead as well as tickets sell out, often far in advance, though winter weather will improve your chances of finding last minute availability. It may not be the easiest place to get to in Bavaria during winter, but it’s surely worth it.
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