Neuschwanstein Castle – The Romantic fairy-tale Castle in Bavaria

On your Germany vacation alongside the Romantic Road, the Castle of Neuschwanstein is truly a must see. It is one of the most viewed sights in Germany with over 1.3 million visitors a year. Neuschwanstein Castle reminds of a fantasy world building with its peaky towers and the white chalkstone walls. Disney World’s Cinderella Castle was inspired by this magnificent building.

Development of the Neuschwanstein Castle

The building process of Neuschwanstein Castle started in 1869 by order of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. King Ludwig spent much of his childhood in a nearby area and he wanted to give this location a lift to the more famous area around Munich. The fabulous style of the castle is mainly the work of King Ludwig II himself. Ludwig was fascinated by medieval sagas and he insisted his architects to show him every little detail for approval. The castle was finished in 1884. Two years later, King Ludwig II passed away. He only had the chance to spend a couple of months living in his lifetime achievement. The construction of the castle was very expensive and paid by running into massive debts. The new Bavarian government wanted to pay off these debts and opened the castle to visitors right after Ludwig’s death.

During World War II the Castle of Neuschwanstein was fortunately not damaged at all, but it was in danger. An SS-colonel had the order to blow up the castle to prevent the enemies of stealing the fantastic art treasures hosted by Neuschwanstein Castle in 1945. Luckily, the colonel refused this mad order and after the end of World War II the castle was committed to the Allied Forces.  

Today, the Castle of Neuschwanstein is a tourist magnet. People from all over the world come to see this spectacular building. In summer, it is very crowded around the castle, so you might have to bring steady nerves and some waiting time. However, your effort will be rewarded with great impressions. Also in winter, the snow-covered castle is a true beauty.

Neuschwanstein Opening Hours & Tickets

The Castle of Neuschwanstein is opened to visitors all year long. You can receive tickets at the ticket center, which is located in the village of Hohenschwangau just below the castle. Here, you can also book guided tours, which is recommended.  It is also possible to arrange private tours. For this experience you have to contact the Neuschwanstein staff. You can find the contact info below.

From the ticket center you can either take a walk up (about 30 minutes) or you can take the bus, which stops about ten minutes away from the castle. Romantics take the horse-drawn carriage for a small fee. Dogs are not allowed in the castle.