No trip to southern Germany is complete without a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, a real-life fairytale fortress perched above the village of Schwangau in Bavaria. With its storybook towers and Alpine setting, this castle inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle and remains one of the most visited attractions in Europe.
A Brief History of Neuschwanstein Castle
Commissioned in 1869 by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle was never meant to be a royal palace, it was a romantic, theatrical homage to German myths and the operas of Richard Wagner, the king’s close friend and muse.
Ludwig envisioned a medieval-style castle but reimagined through the eyes of a dreamer. The design was drawn by stage designer Christian Jank and brought to life by architect Eduard Riedel. Construction began on the ruins of two previous castles, but Ludwig’s death in June 1886 left the project unfinished, with some rooms built in a simplified manner posthumously.
How to Visit Neuschwanstein Castle?
- Where to Park: Cars must be parked in Hohenschwangau village, about 1.5 km from the castle.
- Getting There:
- Steep walk (30–40 minutes)
- Or horse-drawn carriage, which drops you near the castle
- Ticket Info:
- Reserve in advance online to avoid long queues
- Pick up tickets at the Hohenschwangau Ticket Center
- Tickets often include Neuschwanstein Castle only, or combined with Hohenschwangau Castle and the Museum of the Bavarian Kings
Note: Photography inside the castle is strictly prohibited during guided tours.
Inside the Castle: A Tour Worth Taking
Though unfinished, the interior of Neuschwanstein features:
- The Throne Hall, with its breathtaking Byzantine-style decor
- The Singer’s Hall, modeled after Wartburg Castle
- Opera-themed rooms with scenes from Wagner’s operas, such as Tannhäuser and Lohengrin
- Every room reflects Ludwig’s obsession with fantasy, art, and Germanic mythology.
Best Photo Spot: Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge)
- For the iconic postcard view of Neuschwanstein Castle:
- Head to Marienbrücke, a pedestrian bridge above the Pöllat Gorge.
- Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Be prepared: it can be windy and crowded, especially in summer.
Additional Travel Tips
- Visit in spring or early autumn for fewer tourists and pleasant weather.
- Combine your visit with a trip to Hohenschwangau Castle and the Alpsee Lake for a full-day Bavarian itinerary.
- Wear comfortable shoes, even the carriage requires a short uphill walk.
Visit this Bucket List Destination
Neuschwanstein Castle is a monument to imagination, art, and royal eccentricity. If you're chasing views, diving into Bavarian history, or simply following the trail of fairytales, this magical spot belongs on your travel bucket list.