Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria – a quick guide
Where is Neuschwanstein Castle?
Neuschwanstein Castle (New Swan Stone Castle in English) is a stunning 19th century Romanesque Revival palace in a fairy-tale hilltop setting above the village of Hohenschwangau in Germany's Bavaria. Its name was derived from a Wagner opera - "The Swan Night".
Commissioned in the 1800s as a homage to Wagner by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle was built as the Fairy-tale King's refuge, but was opened to the public after his death in 1886.
Wagner never visited the castle as he died before its completion. Ludwig himself only spent 11 nights there.
What can I find at Neuschwanstein Castle?
Neuschwanstein Castle consists of several individual structures that are beautifully furnished with towers, turrets, gables, sculpture and balconies.
The castle has an inner garden surrounded by a walled courtyard, the interior is full of beautiful statues, mosaics and paintings and the castle even has its own artificial cave.
What else is in this post?
- What can I find at Neuschwanstein Castle?
- Things to know about Neuschwanstein Castle:
- Important info about Neuschwanstein Castle:
Things to know about Neuschwanstein Castle:
The building was the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty's castle. It is one of the most visited castles in Germany, with around 1.3 million visitors annually.
Romantics can take a horse-drawn carriage up and down the mountain to get there, although you can walk or take a bus instead.
Marienbrucke (Mary's Bridge) seems to be where the most famous photos of the exterior of the castle are taken. Hike uphill from the castle about 20 minutes and the breathtaking views will make you so glad you did.
Important info about Neuschwanstein Castle:
The castle is open for guided tours in English and German, daily except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. There are also audio guide tours in other languages.
2014 tickets cost 12 euros, with one euro discount for seniors and under 18s free.
Note: Entrance tickets for Neuschwanstein Castle must first be bought at the ticket center in the village of Hohenschwangau! You cannot buy a ticket at the castle itself.
Your ticket is valid for a particular time and tours are prompt.
Enjoy your visit!