Neuschwanstein Castle: A Fairy Tale Escape

Perched over one of the world’s prettiest gorges, Neuschwanstein Castle is everyone’s fantasy dream. It’s the image you’ve seen everywhere that makes you want to start planning your trip to Germany. Why not rent that Porsche and hit the romantic road? We’ll give you what you need to know.

Location

Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most popular destinations in Europe, is located in the German State of Bavaria close to Germany’s border with Austria, not far from the popular ski resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The closest airport is Munich, 128km to the northeast.

Tickets and Guided Tours

Entrance tickets to the castle must be purchased at the ticket center in Hohenschwangau before you start the climb to the castle. The cost is 9 Euros for an adult. The mandatory tour takes a little over half an hour, and involves climbing 165 stairs and descending 181 stairs. A recent traveler reports that there is now a café inside. Tours for individuals with disabilities in wheelchairs and walkers are held on Wednesdays.

Best Views

Great pictures of the castle and the nearby waterfall can be captured from Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge). Between the bridge and the castle is a view of Hohenschwangau Castle. However, be aware that photography is not allowed inside the castle.

Getting There

• By rail: Take the train to the town of Füssen, then take bus 9713 to Hohenschwangau.
• By car: Take the A7 to Füssen, then continue on to Hohenschwangau where you’ll find parking. From Hohenschwangau, you can walk to the castle in 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a horse-drawn carriage ride for 5 euros uphill and 2.50 euros for the return downhill. A bus is also available from Schlosshotel Lisl, Neuschwansteinstraße in Hohenschwangau.

Where to Stay

We recommend spending the night in Hohenschwangau. The Hotel Mueller offers views of both castles and features a good restaurant. Many visitors also choose to stay in nearby Füssen for convenience.

Description and History

Neuschwanstein Castle was built by King Ludwig II, often referred to as Mad King Ludwig. His aim was to replicate medieval architecture, especially the Romanesque style, and to pay homage to the operas of Wagner. Interestingly, you may think you’ve already seen it—it inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. The foundation stone was set on September 5th, 1869, and when Ludwig II died in 1886, the castle was still not complete. The building site near Pöllat Gorge is probably one of the most beautiful in the world.

Interesting Facts

• The Castle is under tremendous tourism pressure; during summer months, over 6000 people visit the castle daily, totaling about 1.3 million visitors per year.
• Since 1990, the state has invested 11.2 million euros in the renovation and maintenance of the castle, as well as improving visitor services.
• Neuschwanstein Castle opened to the public seven weeks after King Ludwig II’s death.
• Although the castle was designed to appear medieval, it includes several modern refinements, such as heating, running water, and automatic flush toilets.
• The kitchen at Neuschwanstein has been preserved entirely, showcasing features like automatic spits and cupboards that could be heated with hot air from the large kitchen stove.
• Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of alpine lakes from Neuschwanstein Castle, particularly the stunning Alpsee. The hiking trails surrounding the Alpsee are abundant and its perimeter is protected as a nature reserve.

Around the Area

Germany’s “Romantic Road”, which runs from Würzburg to Füssen, can be easily combined with a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle for a complete cultural experience.