We're going to be in Munich in January, and wondering if these castles (whose names I have probably spelled horribly wrong) would be a day trip from there? I am aware that they are open but have shorter hours in the winter. Whether it's a day trip or not, I am also wondering how to get to them - I assume trains do not run directly to the castles... buses or something? Thanks for any information!

Check with your hotel when you arrive. There are several companies that run day trips to both castles with a stop in Oberammergue. The fountains and the lawns will still be in winter cover but still worth the trip. My best tip for you is to take the horse drawn buggy to the top. It's only 7DM and well worth it. I walked it and even though I walk everyday for exercise, I found it to be a tough climb. Good luck and enjoy.

Bus tours from Muenchen as Aubie notes. Also, it's an easy drive, and driving in Germany is no problem at all. You could also train to Fuessen (2 hours) and I believe there's a bus up to the castles, or it's a 3 km. walk. Frankly a car would be my preference. <BR> <BR>Neuschwanstein is certainly well worth the trip, however you do it. Linderhof is much more modest though quite charming and worthwhile, even in winter. <BR> <BR>You'll find the following website of interest http://neuschwanstein-country.net/ko...l/neuschwa.htm <BR> <BR>May also find a few things more of interest at http://twenj.com/bavaria.htm <BR> <BR>Ed

I did a day trip from Munich to Neuschweinstein (probably also spelt wrong!) last summer. I arranged the train myself. The people in the train station were very helpful. It was about a 2 hour trip, so very easily achievable in a day. We left about 8am and got back about 8pm. Had a nice day there, wandering around the village, walking and just enjoying the stunning surroundings. <BR>

Forgot to add - there is a train to the nearest village. From there a regular (every 15 minute) bus service runs to the castle. It was well sign posted with "Bus to Neuschweinstein" on the post. <BR>

Jo, you are correct, I saw swans but no pigs at the castle.