The Famous Palace That Inspired Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle

Neuschwanstein, nestled in the Bavarian Alps above the city near Füssen, is recognized as the most famous German castle and is considered one of the top sights and attractions in Germany.

In contrast to many historic castles, Neuschwanstein is relatively new, having been constructed in 1869 by Ludwig II of Bavaria for his personal enjoyment. Tragically, Ludwig’s dream castle remained unfinished at the time of his mysterious drowning in a nearby lake, leaving questions about the circumstances of his death unanswered.

Design Details

Ludwig II designed Neuschwanstein as an extravagant summer retreat, collaborating with a renowned stage designer. His admiration for Richard Wagner is evident throughout the castle, as many scenes from Wagner’s operas are depicted within its walls. Interestingly, Neuschwanstein shares its name with a castle featured in Wagner’s opera Lohengrin.

Despite its fairy tale appearance, the castle incorporated modern technologies of the era, including flush toilets, running water, and advanced heating systems. The stunning spires and luxurious interiors have captivated visitors for generations. Notably, Neuschwanstein served as the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland, further solidifying its iconic status.

Guided tours provide access to the king’s apartments and staterooms on the third and fourth floors, while the second floor remains unfinished and features a shop, cafeteria, and multimedia room.

Visitor Information

• Address: Alpseestrasse 12, 87645 Hohenschwangau, 73 miles southwest of Munich
• Website: www.neuschwanstein.de

Transportation Options

• By Car: Take the Autobahn A7 towards Ulm-Füssen-Kempten; follow the signs to Füssen when the Autobahn ends. Drive the B17 towards Schwangau, continuing to Hohenschwangau.
• By Train: Travel to Füssen by train, then take bus Nr. RVA/OVG 78 to Schwangau. Get off at the Hohenschwangau/Alpseestraße stop and walk up to the castle.
• A horse-drawn carriage is also available for a fee, providing a pleasant alternative to the climb.

Tours of the Castle

• Access to the castle’s lavish interior is only available through guided tours lasting approximately 30 minutes.
• Guided tours are offered in both German and English, with additional audio tours available in multiple languages including Japanese, French, Spanish, and more.
• Wheelchair-accessible tours are also available.

Admission and Tickets

• Tickets for Neuschwanstein Castle must be purchased at the ticket center in Hohenschwangau.
• Combination tickets for all of King Ludwig II’s palaces (Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, and Herrenchiemsee) are valid for six months and allow one-time visits to each palace.

Helpful Tips for Visiting

• Photography and filming are prohibited inside the castle.
• For stunning panoramic photos, hike to the restored Marienbrücke bridge, which offers breathtaking views of Neuschwanstein and the surrounding landscapes, although this trail may close in icy weather.
• As a popular tourist attraction, Neuschwanstein can attract over 6,000 visitors daily, especially in summer. Visiting during spring or fall mid-week can provide a more enjoyable experience.
• The high demand for entrance tickets can lead to sellouts; therefore, it is wise to reserve tickets in advance.
• Large backpacks, strollers, and bulky items are not allowed inside the palace.
• Consider combining your visit to Neuschwanstein with a trip to Castle Hohenschwangau, where Ludwig spent much of his time, offering a different yet equally captivating experience.
• Neuschwanstein is a highlight along the scenic Romantic Road.