Garmisch to Ludwig's Castles
 

Can anyone tell me how to easily get from Garmisch-Partinkirchen to Neuschwanstein via public transportation. We're considering doing our two week trip next summer via trains but I can't figure a way to get to Fussen except going through Munich or Reutte on the trains. Are there direct buses from Garmisch that would take less time?

We were considering staying in Garmisch to do the two Ludwig Castles and Zugpitze (sp?) instead of doing two separate day trip from Munich. Any ideas on a better place to stay to do these via public transportation?

Thanks

The RVO bus will get you between these towns; the ride takes about 2 hours on the direct bus. Here's a schedule for you:

http://www.rvo-bus.de/pdffiles/9606.pdf

Alternatively, there is a beautiful train route from Garmisch through Mittenwald and part of Austrian Tyrolia, a route that takes you behind the Zugspitze and includes a stop in Austria (Ulrichsbrucke) where a popular trail takes you into Fussen (probably only a good idea in summer!)

Maybe this isn't an option, but last summer we rented an apartment for a week in Garmisch, arriving and departing by train. It became clear that public transportation to the castles was difficult from there. We ended up renting a car in Garmisch for three days (Auto Europe) and were glad we did. We were able to see five of the castles in total, visit the Weiss Kirche, and much more. Driving was easy, even though we stayed late at night to see Ludwig the Musical near Neuschwanstein and returned in fog and rain. We sure accomplished a lot more in those three days than we ever could have done by public transportation.

I should also say if you really don't want to rent a car, I'd strongly consider signing up in Garmisch (you can do it many places including the tourist office) for a guided bus tour of the castles. As much as I usually don't like tours, you'll find that you will again see a lot more that way than trying to make the various public transport connections yourself. In addition, they will have your castle visits scheduled so you won't end up missing busses, etc.

Russ,

Thanks for the info, we are considering the same trip.

The "problem" with that area is the trains basically run north/south from Munich and Murnau and Buchloe rather than east/west. Once you get to Garmisch, or Fuessen, or Oberammergau you either go to the castles by bus or taxi.
I would strongly recommend Patrick's suggestion of the bus tour...and I think you'll get to see the "biggies" such as Neuschwanstein with little hassle.

It is unfortunate that the largest of all the "palaces" at Herrenchiemsee isn't as easily reached since in many ways it is more spectacular overall... and a huge favorite stopping point for the local Bavarians but you're sure to enjoy the area around the others as well as the castles themselves.

kitty,

You mentioned Reutte, and it occurs to me that Reutte might be a good place to stay and would save you some travel time. It's a "Rick Steves" pick, and the train connections to Garmisch (less than an hour) are good (what a beautiful ride, too) as are the bus connections into Fussen (less than 30 minutes.)

Here is a schedule of the Fussen-Reutte buses:

http://www.vvt.at/pdf/b70.pdf

You can use www.bahn.de to find train schedules for Reutte-Garmisch.

Thanks for all the great suggestions. I do find that many of the train routes I'm considering for Germany are not straight shots so all the information you all have provided is appreciated.