Introducing Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle, officially known as New Swan Stone Castle, is a late 19th-century structure built in 1869. Located in southwestern Bavaria, Germany, it is adjacent to the older Hohenschwangau Castle, approximately 4 kilometers from the town of Fussen and not far from the German-Austrian border. Neuschwanstein Castle is a symbol of Germany and, as it served as the prototype for the Disney castle, is also known as Cinderella's Castle.
This castle was one of the residences of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Of its 360 rooms, only 14 were completed as designed; the remaining 346 rooms were left unfinished upon the king's death in 1886. It is the most photographed building in Germany and one of its most popular tourist attractions.
Climate and best time to travel
It is a great place to visit in all seasons. In spring, the flowers bloom and the grass is green, creating a delightful scene; in winter, the castle is covered in snow, creating a unique and charming scene.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
To enter the castle, you must follow an official tour guide, who provides services in English and German. You can also choose an audio guide (Chinese version available), but it must also be controlled by the tour guide.
After the visit, you can take a break in the cafe inside the castle. The price is similar to that of restaurants outside the scenic area, and the price-performance ratio is good.
During the peak tourist season, there are more visitors. It is recommended to book in advance on the official website (booking must be done two days in advance before 15:00 local time) and go directly to the redemption window to pick up the ticket.
The tour sessions vary by language. Please select the tour session and time based on your desired language.
Visitors who drive can park their cars in the paid parking lot next to the ticket hall.
Tickets
Tickets:
Monday to Sunday, January 1st - December 31st
Regular ticket: 13 euros
Free admission: Free for teenagers under 18 years old
Tips:
Discounted tickets 11 euros
Attraction opening hours
Opening hours
Monday to Sunday, April 1st to October 15th
08:00-17:00 (Ticket Office), 09:00-18:00 (Castle)
Most Popular FAQs for Neuschwanstein Castle
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1869 as a personal retreat and homage to composer Richard Wagner. It is a 19th-century Romantic palace known for its fairy-tale architecture and interior decorations inspired by medieval legends. Today, it is one of Germany’s most visited tourist attractions and an iconic symbol of Romanticism in architecture.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany, close to the Austrian border.
- By train: Take a train to Füssen station, then a bus or taxi to Hohenschwangau village.
- By car: Parking available in Hohenschwangau village with shuttle services or walking to the castle.
- Walking: The castle is about a 30–40 minute uphill walk from Hohenschwangau village.
- Shuttle buses and horse-drawn carriages operate from the village to the castle entrance.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- April–October: 9:00–18:00
- October–March: 10:00–16:00
- Closed on January 1st and December 24–26.
- Best times to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Adult ticket: approx. €17–€20
- Reduced ticket (students, seniors): approx. €14
- Family tickets available
- Tickets can be purchased online via the official Neuschwanstein website or at the Ticket Center in Hohenschwangau village.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Yes, especially in peak season (May–September). Booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance online is recommended to secure preferred time slots.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- Castle interior tour: approx. 1 hour
- Walking around viewpoints and nearby trails: 1–2 hours
- Combined visit with Hohenschwangau Castle: 3–4 hours
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Throne Hall with its Byzantine-inspired murals
- Singer’s Hall, inspired by medieval legends
- King Ludwig II’s bedroom and private quarters
- Study room and chapel
- Castle exterior and towers for panoramic views
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided tours are mandatory for the interior and available in German and English.
- Audio guides are available in multiple languages including German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, and Japanese.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) overlooking the castle and valley
- Pöllat Gorge for scenic shots of the castle and waterfalls
- From the castle courtyard and terraces
- Nearby hill trails for panoramic mountain and lake views
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Enter through the Ticket Center and proceed to the castle via shuttle or carriage
- Begin interior tour at the Throne Hall
- Continue to Singer’s Hall, King’s bedroom, study, and chapel
- Finish at exterior terraces and viewpoints
- Walk down to Marienbrücke for photography
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not available inside the castle, but special evening events or guided hikes may occur seasonally. The castle is illuminated from outside at night for photography.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Peak season (May–September) is very crowded.
- Least crowded: Early morning, late afternoon, weekdays, or off-season (October–April).
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Ticket Center and castle area provide toilets, gift shops, cafes, and benches. Hohenschwangau village has multiple restaurants and rest areas.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Castle interior has limited accessibility; wheelchairs are not permitted inside. Elderly and children may use shuttles or carriages to reach the entrance. Trails vary in difficulty.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted at the Ticket Center, restaurants, and shops, though small vendors may accept cash only.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Schlosscafé Neuschwanstein – near the castle, light meals and drinks
- Alpenstuben Restaurant – Bavarian cuisine in Hohenschwangau village
- Hotel Müller Restaurant – traditional German meals
- Café Café-Bistro am Schloss – pastries and coffee
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants; vegan choices are limited. Halal options are rare but can be found in nearby Füssen town.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotel Müller – central Hohenschwangau, family-friendly
- Hotel Alpina – boutique style, near the castle
- Schlosshotel Lisl – cozy guesthouse in Hohenschwangau
- Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel – luxury accommodations nearby
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Tegelberg Mountain – cable car, hiking, and paragliding
- Alpsee Lake – scenic walking and boat tours
- Füssen old town – historical architecture and shopping
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops at the Ticket Center and village
- Typical items: miniature Neuschwanstein models, postcards, magnets, Bavarian crafts, and local chocolates
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Bus or shuttle back to Füssen train station for onward travel
- Rental car for exploring Bavarian Alps or nearby towns
- Taxi services from Hohenschwangau village
