25 Fascinating Facts About Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany

Travelers looking to live out a fairy tale should head to Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, the enchanting European palace that has inspired actual fairy tales. Few places on Earth look more like storybook illustrations than Neuschwanstein Castle. With its towers, turrets, frescoes, and throne hall, Neuschwanstein (or Schloss Neuschwanstein, as it is called in German) looks like it was plucked straight from your favorite fairy tale. However, the story behind this opulent palace nestled in the Bavarian Alps is less idyllic.

King Ludwig II of Bavaria commissioned the cliffside castle in 1868, just two years after Austria and Bavaria were conquered by Prussia during the Austro-Prussian War (sometimes called the Seven Weeks’ War), effectively stripping Ludwig II of his powers. Consequently, he retreated into a private fantasy world, surrounding himself with opulent castles where he could live out his dreams of being a true, sovereign king.

Ludwig II never saw the final Neuschwanstein, according to the Bavarian Castle Administration—he died in 1886, and the final towers weren’t completed until 1892. Nonetheless, within weeks of his sudden and mysterious death, the magnificent castle was opened to the public and quickly became one of the region’s most popular attractions.

Today, Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most-visited castles in the world. Here’s everything you need to know about this charming attraction before you make the trip.

Where is Neuschwanstein Castle?

Neuschwanstein Castle, which literally translates to “New Swan Stone” castle, is located in the Bavaria region of southeastern Germany. It was originally called New Hohenschwangau Castle, as it was intended to be a grand recreation of Hohenschwangau Castle, where Ludwig II spent his childhood. Moreover, the older Schloss Hohenschwangau now sits in Neuschwanstein’s magnificent shadow.

Its modern name, thought to be a reference to Wagner’s character, the Swan Knight, was not acquired until after Ludwig II’s death.

Travelers visiting Neuschwanstein Castle will first need to travel to the village of Hohenschwangau, where the ticket center is located.

How tall is Neuschwanstein Castle?

Though not particularly tall—Neuschwanstein Castle’s highest tower reaches a height of just 213 feet—its perch on a hill gives it an imposing silhouette.

When was Neuschwanstein Castle built?

While the construction of Neuschwanstein Castle broke ground during the summer of 1868, the first foundation stone wasn’t laid until September 5, 1869. By 1873, parts of the castle could be occupied by Ludwig II, though he never lived to see his full vision realized. The Bower and Square Towers were completed in 1892, nearly a quarter of a century after work on the castle began, and many years after Ludwig II passed away and the castle was opened to the public.

According to plans, the castle was meant to have more than 200 rooms, but just over a dozen were finished before funds were cut. Estimates put the total square footage at roughly 65,000 square feet.

Why was Neuschwanstein Castle built?

Ludwig II’s reputation as an eccentric, reclusive king makes it easy to see why Neuschwanstein Castle is so often called “the castle of the fairy-tale king.” In a letter to his friend, German composer Richard Wagner, Ludwig II stated that his intentions with Neuschwanstein Castle were to “rebuild old castle ruin of Hohenschwangau… in the authentic style of the old German knights’ castles.”

He described “guest rooms with a splendid view of the noble Säuling, the mountains of Tyrol, and far across the plain;” and spoke of a Singer’s Hall and an ample castle courtyard. “This castle will be in every way more beautiful and habitable than Hohenschwangau,” Ludwig II told Wagner.

However, it is believed—almost without dispute—that Ludwig II built Neuschwanstein Castle for political and deeply personal reasons. In 1866, Prussia emerged victorious from the Austro-Prussian War, forcing Bavaria to accept an alliance with the empire. As a result, King Ludwig II of Bavaria essentially lost his power. It is thought that Neuschwanstein Castle became the centerpiece of Ludwig II’s imagined kingdom, where he could act as a true royal.

What were King Ludwig II of Bavaria’s early days like?

Before King Ludwig II of Bavaria became a servant to Prussia, he had a rather comfortable childhood at Schloss Hohenschwangau. His parents noted an inclination for play-acting (a proclivity that would only deepen in later years), and he was fond of the musical dramas created by the great German composer, Richard Wagner.

At the young age of 18, Ludwig II became King of Bavaria, but he would only reign for two years before Bavaria’s foreign policy and military powers were seized by Prussia.

Did Neuschwanstein Castle really inspire Disney’s castles?

Neuschwanstein Castle, with its white limestone façade and deep blue turrets, is rumored to be real-life inspiration for the castle in the Disney classic, “Cinderella,” released in 1950. The resemblance, after all, is striking.

Moreover, there’s another Disney castle that bears a strong resemblance to Neuschwanstein: “Sleeping Beauty’s” castle in Disneyland. Before Walt Disney began constructing his California theme park, he and his wife took a trip to Europe, which included a stop at Neuschwanstein Castle. Representatives of the park later stated that Disney kept Ludwig II’s remarkable home in mind for Sleeping Beauty’s fairy tale palace.

When is the best time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle?

Whether flanked by snow-covered peaks or gleaming white in the summer sun, there’s no bad time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle. However, with approximately 6,000 tourists streaming through the ramparts every day, visitors may want to avoid the peak summer months of July and August. If possible, schedule your visit during a weekend or in the off-season. Save for major holidays (like Christmas), the number of visits drops significantly between November and April.

To skip the long lines, order your tickets online ahead of time, or alternatively, get to the Ticketcenter Hohenschwangau very early (before opening) or after 3 p.m., when the crowds begin to thin.

What is it like to visit Neuschwanstein Castle in the fall?

A strong argument could be made for visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in the fall, when the Bavarian Alps are transformed by autumn foliage, temperatures are mild, skies are relatively clear, and the summer crowds have dissipated. Additionally, Munich is a popular home base for travelers who come to see Neuschwanstein and other stunning Bavarian castles scattered throughout the region.

What is it like to visit Neuschwanstein Castle in the winter?

While a snow-covered Neuschwanstein Castle is the stuff of travelers’ dreams, it can be challenging to visit this time of year. One of the best viewpoints—Marienbrücke, or Mary’s Bridge—is typically blocked off during the winter, and temperatures can drop below freezing.

What is it like to visit Neuschwanstein Castle in the spring?

An off-season, springtime trip to Neuschwanstein Castle in March or April will offer travelers pleasant weather, picturesque photographs of the white castle against a lush green backdrop, and fewer crowds. Visitors coming in May or June will experience similar advantages during their shoulder-season tour of Neuschwanstein Castle.

What is it like to visit Neuschwanstein Castle in the summer?

Warm weather, school holidays, and extended hours make Neuschwanstein Castle a particularly popular attraction in the summer. Therefore, visitors during peak months (July and August) should be prepared for long lines and considerable crowds.

What can you see inside Neuschwanstein Castle?

Despite Ludwig’s grand plans, only 14 rooms are currently finished and on view for visitors. On the guided tour of Neuschwanstein Castle’s interior, you’ll have access to the cave-like grotto, the king’s bedroom, and the Singer’s Hall, among other interesting parts of the castle.

What’s so special about Ludwig’s dressing room?

Highlights of the Dressing Room include the magnificent ceiling painting and murals illustrating the works of poets Walther von der Vogelwide and Hans Sachs. The entire room is finished in rich gold and violet silks.

What is the throne room like?

Few rooms in Neuschwanstein Castle capture Ludwig’s obsession with being king quite as well as the Throne Room. The two-story space highlights the majesty of Byzantine churches and is finished with a 13-foot-tall chandelier, a painted cupola, and elaborate floor mosaics. Ironically, there was never an actual throne in this space.

What else can you see outside Neuschwanstein Castle?

One of the highlights beyond the castle’s walls is Marienbrücke, the bridge that hangs over a waterfall and offers the most iconic views (and photo opportunities) of Neuschwanstein Castle. After your tour, be sure to spend some time checking out the wooden trails around the castle, which provide countless opportunities to admire the surrounding Bavarian Alps.

What kinds of Neuschwanstein Castle tours are available?

While tours arranged by the Bavarian Palace Department are the only way to see inside Neuschwanstein Castle, many tour companies do arrange day trips from Munich and other surrounding areas. Travelers interested in joining a tour company should look for an itinerary that includes stops at nearby Linderhof Castle, Hohenschwangau, and others.

How do you get to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich?

Travelers wondering how to get to Neuschwanstein from Munich without joining a tour group will find that there are many options available for making the journey, including public trains and buses.

Neuschwanstein is approximately two hours from Munich by car, with A7 being the primary motorway until either Füssen or Kempten. Parking for Neuschwanstein Castle is located in the village of Hohenschwangau. Trains to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich will go as far as Füssen, at which point visitors will need to transfer to a local bus. Trains and intercity buses are also available for travelers seeking transportation from Garmisch or from Innsbruck to Neuschwanstein Castle.

How do you reach Neuschwanstein Castle from Hohenschwangau?

All travelers visiting Neuschwanstein will first arrive in Hohenschwangau, where you’ll find the Ticketcenter, parking lots, Museum of the Bavarian Kings, and other popular attractions. From Hohenschwangau, visitors can reach Neuschwanstein Castle by foot, shuttle bus, or horse-drawn carriage.

Walking to Neuschwanstein Castle takes 30 to 40 minutes, and travelers should note it’s a steep, uphill climb.

Shuttle buses cost 3 euros round-trip and take visitors from parking lot P4. Buses cannot be driven directly to the castle, and visitors should expect to walk an additional 10 to 15 minutes afterward. In severe weather, shuttle buses do not run, and travelers must either reach Neuschwanstein Castle by foot or by carriage.

Taking a horse-drawn carriage to Neuschwanstein Castle will likely complete your fairy tale experience. The round-trip cost varies but is approximately 12 euros. Like the shuttles, carriages cannot go directly to the castle, and travelers must be prepared to walk an additional 5 to 10 minutes before reaching the entrance.

How much does it cost to tour Neuschwanstein Castle?

Neuschwanstein Castle tickets cost €17.50 for adults and include a guided tour at a specified hour. Tickets for visitors under 18 are just €2.50, and there are also reduced entry prices for seniors, students, and large groups.

Tickets must be purchased at the Ticketcenter in Hohenschwangau, though they can also be reserved online—this is particularly helpful during peak season and holidays, when they can easily sell out.

Are there guided tours of Neuschwanstein Castle?

Travelers can only get inside Neuschwanstein Castle on a guided tour, which is included in the price of admission. Tours are given in either English or German, though travelers can also take advantage of an audio tour, available in 17 additional languages. Tours last approximately 30 minutes and include stops in the two-story throne room and a bedroom inspired by Tristan and Isolde, featuring a carved oak bed draped in blue silks.

What are Neuschwanstein Castle’s hours of operation?

Neuschwanstein Castle is open from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. between April 1 and October 15. From October 16 through March, the hours are 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. The castle is open every day except for December 24, 25, 31, and January 1.

Where should I stay near Neuschwanstein Castle?

Travelers who want to stay close to Neuschwanstein Castle should look at hotels in the village of Hohenschwangau. For a romantic, fairy tale experience, consider Villa Ludwig, one of the village’s newer properties. Additionally, there are many cozy hotels and inns in nearby Füssen. For a broader range of lodging options, use larger Bavarian cities like Munich or Augsburg as a base for exploring the region’s castles, each located a little over 90 minutes away by car.

Where should I eat near Neuschwanstein Castle?

Visitors can eat in the castle at Neuschwanstein’s Café & Bistro, or at the eponymous Schlossrestaurant Neuschwanstein in the village. The latter boasts a sweeping terrace and gardens overlooking the castle. Interestingly, craftsmen who built the castle reportedly dined at this site when it was a canteen back in the 19th century.

What other attractions are nearby?

Visitors making the trek to Neuschwanstein Castle should absolutely make time to visit Linderhof Palace (another castle commissioned by King Ludwig II) and his childhood home, Hohenschwangau Castle.

What are some other important things to know about visiting?

Travelers with disabilities may not find Neuschwanstein Castle particularly accessible, as even the shuttle buses and horse-drawn carriages to the entrance are followed by a short walk.

Despite being one of the most photographed attractions in Germany, no photography is permitted inside the castle, meaning you’ll need to snap your Instagram pictures from outside.