Day 3 in Munich was all about stepping into a fairytale! I booked a day trip through Get Your Guide to visit the elegant Linderhof Palace, the charming town of Oberammergau, known for its Passion of the Christ performance every decade, and the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, fascinating history, and Bavarian charm.
First up was Linderhof Palace, which, while much smaller than Neuschwanstein, was Ludwig II’s only completed palace. Built in a French Rococo style, this palace was Ludwig’s tribute to the grandeur of Versailles, with lavishly decorated rooms and beautifully manicured gardens. Ludwig was known as the “Fairytale King,” and his obsession with creating luxurious, dreamy spaces is evident here. One highlight was the Hall of Mirrors, where Ludwig would daydream and escape from reality. Every corner of Linderhof feels like stepping into the life of a king who lived in his own fantasy world. The grounds are expansive, with wonderful water falls and features. Tickets are required and you can purchase them HERE.
The second stop of the day was the picturesque village of Oberammergau, just 20 minutes away from Linderhof. This little town is famous for its Passion of the Christ performance, which has been taking place every 10 years since 1634! The tradition began as a promise the townspeople made after being spared from the plague, and it’s continued ever since. Even though the next performance isn’t until 2030, the town itself is worth visiting for its stunning Alpine scenery and beautifully painted houses that depict religious and historical scenes.
Final stop: Neuschwanstein Castle, a sight that looks straight out of a storybook. Built in the late 19th century by the eccentric King Ludwig II of Bavaria, this iconic castle is perched high in the Bavarian Alps, and it was meant to be a personal retreat for the king. Ludwig was a huge fan of composer Richard Wagner, so much of the castle’s design was inspired by Wagner’s operas. Unfortunately, due to untimely death of Ludwig II, the castle was never completed and only 17 of the 200 planned rooms were completed. You will get to tour all 17 rooms, and they are magnificent.
There are a few ways to get to the top of the mountain where the castle is located. First, you can walk the mile uphill which should take you about 40 minutes. Second, you can take the shuttle bus one way for 3 euros per person. Third way is horse drawn carriage for 8 euros per person. I recommend taking the shuttle up the mountain, where you get dropped off at Mary’s Bridge. Take the walk up to the bridge as you will get an incredible view of the castle. If you are feeling adventurous, continue past the bridge to the overlook area further up the mountain. After your tour, take the 20 minute walk down the hill and enjoy the scenery of the Bavarian Alps.
Fun fact: Neuschwanstein actually served as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle! Walking through its grand halls and soaking in the views, I could totally understand why this place draws millions of visitors each year—it’s pure magic. Book your tickets early HERE, as they do sell out everyday.
By the end of the day, I felt like I’d traveled through time and fairy tales. From Ludwig’s dreamlike castles to the deep-rooted tradition of Oberammergau, it was a truly unforgettable day trip. If you’re in Munich, this excursion is a must!
