Neuschwanstein Castle:
Bavaria’s fairytale castle

Hardly any other place embodies the magic of Bavaria quite like Neuschwanstein Castle. Perched high on a cliff near Füssen, King Ludwig II’s fairytale castle attracts millions of visitors from all over the world year after year.

This romantic 19th-century building is one of Germany’s most famous landmarks and even served as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. No wonder: the towers, battlements and secluded setting amidst the mountains make Neuschwanstein Castle a place that looks as though it has sprung straight from a fairy tale. As you stroll through the magnificent interiors, you can sense the spirit of the ‘Fairy-Tale King’ and immerse yourself in the dreams, visions and history of Bavaria. A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle is a brief journey back in time to a world of fantasy and romance.

The story ofthe ‘
’ Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II in 1869 – as a retreat and as a tribute to the music of his much-admired friend Richard Wagner. Inspired by medieval knight’s castles, Ludwig had a building erected here that combines Gothic, Romanesque and Byzantine stylistic elements into a unique ensemble.

However, the king never lived to see the completion of his dream castle. When Ludwig II died in 1886 under mysterious circumstances, the castle was still unfinished. Today, Neuschwanstein is regarded as one of Europe’s most famous buildings and as a symbol of the longing for beauty, solitude and artistic freedom.

Anyone taking a guided tour of Neuschwanstein Castle will discover not only ornate murals, opulent halls and regal furnishings, but also the inner world of a man who turned a fairy tale into reality.

Photo: © Bavarian Palace Administration, Herpich Verlag

Neuschwanstein Castle today

Neuschwanstein Castle on a hill surrounded by snow-covered trees in winter.

Our tips for your visit

-it is quieter early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Entry to the castle is only possible as part of a guided tour - so it is best to book tickets online in advance (especially in summer).
- Remember to wear sturdy shoes - the path up is steep!
- The best time to visit is between May and October, but the castle is also a dream in winter. Covered in snow, it looks like a Christmas fairy tale, but be careful: The ascent can be slippery in winter.

View from Neuschwanstein Castle in winter

Guided tours & ticket prices

Taking part in a guided tour is compulsory – but in return you’ll gain a fascinating insight into the world of King Ludwig II.
Admission price: €20–25 per person*
Concessionary tickets: for students, senior citizens, people with severe disabilities and holders of the Gästekarte
Children & young people (up to 17 years): €2.50*
Duration of the guided tour: approx. 30 minutes
Languages: German & English

During the guidedtour, you’ll explore artistically decorated halls, magnificent ceiling paintings and the famous Throne Room, which is reminiscent of a Byzantine cathedral. As the palace is particularly busy during the peak season, we recommend booking online in advance to avoid queues.

Photo: © Bavarian Palace Administration

Neuschwanstein Castle on a hill, surrounded by trees.

Directions & Parking

Neuschwanstein Castle is situated near Hohenschwangau, very close to the town of Füssen.
Getting there by car:
Via the A7 (Füssen exit) or the B17 from the direction of Augsburg. It is about 5 km from Füssen to Hohenschwangau. Car parks are located in the valley (subject to a charge). From there, you can reach the castle on foot or by shuttle bus. The journey takes just a few minutes – the rest of the way is along a well-maintained path with stunning views of the castle.Tip: If you arrive early, you’ll find a parking space more easily.

Travelling by public transport:
Take the train to Füssen, then continue by bus to Hohenschwangau (bus stop: Schwangau, Neuschwanstein Castles).

Marienbrücke:
The most beautiful view of Neuschwanstein Castle

If you’re looking for the perfect postcard view, there’s no getting round the Marienbrücke. This footbridge spans the Pöllat Gorge and offers what is arguably the most famous view of Neuschwanstein Castle, with its towers and battlements set against the backdrop of the Alps. You don’t need a ticket to cross it; the bridge is freely accessible.

During the summer months, the Marienbrücke is usually open round the clock. However, in the event of ice, snow or strong winds, it is closed for safety reasons. This can also happen in spring or autumn. If you don’t want to miss the view, you should check the current opening times before visiting. If the bridge is closed, a viewing bench on the tarmac road just below it offers at least a partial view of the castle.

Photography tip: The view looks best when photographed not head-on, but from a slight angle. This way, the trees to the left and right frame the castle and give the picture more depth. It’s quietest early in the morning or just before closing time, when the main crowds have already dispersed.

Photo: © Bavarian Palace Administration, Martha Feustel

In the area around
near Neuschwanstein Castle

If you’re already in the area, you should take some time to explore the surrounding countryside.

A handy tip: for those arriving by car, car parks P1 to P4 are available in Hohenschwangau, all just a few minutes’ walk from the ticket centre. If you’re planning a full day exploring Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau, Alpsee and the museum, you should set off early. That way, you can explore the region at a leisurely pace and avoid long queues.

A view of a lake and mountains through two columns.

Lake Alpsee near Neuschwanstein

The idyllic Alpsee lies right at the foot of Neuschwanstein. It’s a lovely place to go for a walk along its shores, with views of both the royal castles and the surrounding mountains. It offers a peaceful contrast to the hustle and bustle around the castle and is a great spot for photos too.

Photo: © Bavarian Palace Administration, kreativ-instinkt

Hohenschwangau Castle

Just a few minutes’ walk away stands Hohenschwangau Castle, where King Ludwig II spent much of his childhood. The yellow castle can be visited as part of a guided tour and provides fascinating insights into the history of the Wittelsbach family and Neuschwanstein.

Museum of the Bavarian Kings

Situated right on the shores of Lake Alpsee, in the former Grandhotel Alpenrose, the Museum of the Bavarian Kings covers over 1,000 square metres and tells the story of the House of Wittelsbach, focusing on King Maximilian II and Ludwig II, whilst offering magnificent panoramic views of the lake and the Alps.

FAQs about
Neuschwanstein Castle

When was Neuschwanstein Castle built?

Construction began in 1869 on the orders of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Although many areas were completed, the palace remains unfinished to this day.

How much does it cost to visit Neuschwanstein Castle?

Admission costs €23.50* per adult (as of August 2026).
Children and young people up to and including the age of 17 pay **€2.50*.
All tickets include a guided tour of the castle lasting approximately 30 minutes**.

Can you visit Neuschwanstein Castle without a guided tour?

No, access is only possible as part of a guided tour. The guided tours take place regularly in German and English.

What is the best way to get to Neuschwanstein Castle?

The easiest way to travel is by train to Füssen and then by bus to Hohenschwangau.
If you are travelling by car, park in the valley and walk the rest of the way or take the shuttle bus.
Our tip: Book your ticket online in advance to avoid waiting times.

Is Neuschwanstein Castle open in winter?

Yes, the castle is open all year round, only closed on 24, 25, 31 December and 1 January.*
In winter there is often snow here too, but be careful: the ascent can be slippery!

Where exactly is Neuschwanstein Castle?

The castle is located above the municipality of Schwangau in the Allgäu, just a few kilometres from Füssen.
The starting point for the ascent is the village of Hohenschwangau, where the last car parks are located.

Please note that opening hours and prices are subject to change.

A building with trees and mountains in the background.

One bedroom with a window and a view of the mountains.

aja Hotel in
Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the region’s absolute highlights, and from the aja Hotel Garmisch-Partenkirchen it’s only about an hour’s drive away. A perfect day trip: breakfast with mountain views in the morning, then off to King Ludwig II’s fairy-tale land.

But Neuschwanstein is just the beginning. From here, there are many more attractions to discover: the Zugspitze, Lake Eibsee, the Partnach Gorge and countless hiking trails in the heart of the Alps. The aja Garmisch-Partenkirchen is your ideal base from which to experience Bavaria in all its diversity.

Perfect starting point for activities

Room with mountain view & modern design

Heated outdoor pool with panoramic views

Fitness area & aja SPA with NIVEA shop

E-mountain bike hire

Bar & terrace with a view of the Alps

GreenSign certified (Level 4)

Book now More about the aja Garmisch