Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany. The palace was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and as a homage to Richard Wagner, the King’s inspiring muse. Ludwig paid for the palace out of his personal fortune and by means of extensive borrowing, rather than Bavarian public funds.
History of Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle was intended as a personal refuge for the reclusive king, but it was opened to the paying public immediately after his death in 1886. Since then more than 61 million people have visited Neuschwanstein Castle. More than 1.3 million people visit annually, with up to 6,000 per day in the summer.
Getting to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
Munich is the capital of Bavaria and the closest major city to Neuschwanstein Castle. The best way to get to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich is by car. It’s about a two-hour drive. You can also take the train from Munich to Füssen, and then take a bus or taxi to the castle.
Things to do at Neuschwanstein Castle
- Take a guided tour of the castle.
- Visit the King Ludwig II Museum.
- Explore the grounds and gardens.
- Hike in the surrounding hills and forests.
- Go horseback riding.
- Take a boat tour on the nearby lake.
Where to stay near Neuschwanstein Castle
There are many hotels, guesthouses, and bed & breakfasts near Neuschwanstein Castle. The closest is the Hotel Schloss Neuschwanstein, located right next to the castle. Other nearby accommodations include:
- Hotel Füssen – 3 km from Neuschwanstein Castle
- Hotel Sonne – 5 km from Neuschwanstein Castle
- Hotel Alpenhof – 6 km from Neuschwanstein Castle
- Hotel Bergkristall – 7 km from Neuschwanstein Castle
Tips for visiting Neuschwanstein Castle
- Buy tickets in advance – Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany and tickets sell out quickly.
- Plan your visit in the off-season – Summer is the busiest time to visit the castle, so try to visit in the spring or fall if possible.
- Wear comfortable shoes – The castle is located on a steep hill, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a bottle of water.
- Bring a camera – Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most photogenic castles in Europe, so don’t forget to bring your camera.
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