Neuschwanstein Castle

Ludwig II of Bavaria began building Neuschwanstein in 1869 as a private retreat inspired by medieval legends and the operas of Wagner. With its white towers on a rocky crag above the village of Hohenschwangau, it is said to have inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Guided tours lead through the king's richly painted rooms, including the Throne Hall and the Singers' Hall. For the classic view, walk to the Marienbrücke footbridge over the gorge behind the castle; below, the yellow Hohenschwangau Castle, where Ludwig grew up, can also be visited.

Neuschwanstein is about two hours from Munich. Entry is by timed tour ticket, booked well ahead in summer, and the walk up from the village takes 30 to 40 minutes, though horse carriages and buses cover part of the way.