I had read on one website that cameras were not allowed inside this castle...can anyone confirm this? I will be taking a day trip from Munich to visit Neuschwanstein...any other suggestions on sights to see near the castle? Thanks

I took my camera in during a visit in August 2002, but I was not allowed to take any pictures. It was in my purse.

A couple of other sights:

Hohenschwangau Castle just across the little valley.

The Wieskirche--just a short drive away.

Depending on which way you are traveling, you could stop at Linderhof palace on the way to or from Hohenschwangau (the village where Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles are located).

Hang gliding and parasailing near Schwangau.

Reutte, Austria is just a few minutes drive away and has its own castle ruins.

There really is nothing to take pictures of. The castle is empty, save for a few murals and tasteless chandeliers. It is all highly vulgar.

Now, ThinGorjus, don't overdo it.

Much of the interior of Neuschwanstein was never finished. However, there are a dozen or so rooms that were finished, and while some of the themes used in the rooms may be a bit questionable in the taste department, there is some of the finest 19th century craftsmanship you'll find anywhere--especially in the woodworking.

I found it very interesting to see modern "recreations" of the old craftmanship. It was also interesting to see into the "mad" mind of Ludwig. His eccentricity is very evident.

I asked our guide about photography, and she requested to inspect my camera. When she saw it was a film SLR with no flash, she said it would be all right.

I shot ASA 100, mostly f1.4 at 1/30.

Thanks for your replies and suggestions! Are there any tours that maybe stop at the castle just for outside photos? I beleive I had read something about a walking tour that takes you around the castle to a bridge that overlooks the castle and valley below.

lexi--you don't need a tour to get to Marienbruecke--Mary's Bridge. Just walk on up or take the shuttle bus.

The best photos of Neuschwanstein (NS) are from Hohenschwangau castle in the distance or on the calk up to NS. NS sits pretty high up on a hill, and if you take the shuttle bus up you'll be too close for a broad shot anyway.

Be sure to purchase your ticket at the bottom of the hill. Once you hike up you will find that there is no way to purchase a ticket on top. They take people in groups. Get to the castle, book your time and take time to explore the area.

The short hike up to Mary's Bridge (the famous bridge to take photos from) is very pretty and also fairly short. 15-20 minutes tops.