So, you want to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany’s famous fairytale escape? There are many spectacular castles in Germany but this is an amazing trip that I highly recommend. I loved my time here, and I have a few suggestions to make your day even more epic.
Schedule Neuschwanstein Castle Tour months ahead of time.
If you do not contact the Neuschwanstein Castle staff ahead of time, there is a good chance that you will be denied entrance. This town is old school, and you will need to secure tickets several months ahead of time. Email the ticket office and request several dates and times. A few days later, you will receive information about what is available. A quick note, chances are that you will not receive the exact time slot that you request.
Include Hohenschwangau Castle in your trip.
Hohenschwangau is the other castle in the area. It is the palace where King Ludwig II (the former inhabitant of Neuschwanstein Castle) summered during his youth. It is a fairytale spectacle in its own right, and it is definitely worth your time. To make things easier, make sure Hohenschwangau is included in your initial booking.
Fussen to Neuschwanstein Castle
Most people think Neuschwanstein Castle is located in Fussen. Not true. Assuming you take a train from Munich (this is what most people do), buy a bus ticket to the town of Hohenschwangau upon arrival. You will see a pilgrimage of people doing the same thing, so it’s not confusing. Several thousand people visit daily, so it’s pretty difficult to mess this up.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets
Once you arrive in Hohenschwangau, walk along the road until you see the counter to exchange your confirmation for paper tickets. Be sure to print out your confirmation ahead of time. Trust me, this will make the entire process much easier.
Additionally, my suggestion is that you arrive early. I saw several groups arguing with people at the ticket counter, because they were late.
For many people (myself included), this is a dream destination. You don’t want to be stuck outside of the castle because of tardiness.
Fairytale forests
When you walk up to each palace, be sure to explore the idyllic woodlands. No matter if it is summer or winter, the surrounding areas are like something out of a dream.
Entry to Hohenschwangau & Neuschwanstein Castle
When you approach Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein Castle, look for the ticket scanner. A time is printed on your ticket, and if you are late, you will be out of luck. The scanners are unmanned and finding someone to plead your case to is an exercise in futility. So, if you keep an eye on the time, you will be fine.
Inside the Neuschwanstein Castle Tour
Both castles put you on a 35-minute tour, no exceptions. The guides dole out interesting information, and you will learn a great deal about the former Wittelsbach dynasty. Unless you are taking pictures of the view, inside photography is prohibited. I managed to snap a few photos from different windows that include a bit of the storybook interior.
At Neuschwanstein, there is a movie and a cafe at the conclusion of your tour. The food is basic, but something feels surreal about having a latte in King Ludwig II’s former home. He only slept here for nine nights, so having a snack in such glorious surroundings is pretty surreal.
Outside of Neuschwanstein
The insanely gorgeous scenery surrounding Neuschwanstein never gets old. The lake is pristine and deserving of the iconic chateau backdrops. Marie’s Bridge (Marienbrucke) sits outside of Neuschwanstein Castle, and it is frequently closed during the winter. The extra weight of the snow renders Marienbrucke too dangerous to cross. In the summer, the area becomes crowded. So, be careful that you aren’t jostled when walking across.
Overall: Neuschwanstein Castle Tour
An afternoon spent at Neuschwanstein is incredibly special. Indulge in the mythical romance of your surroundings. Additionally, researching the fabulous eccentricities of King Ludwig II on Google ahead of time will only enhance your experience. This is an epic day that will stay with you forever.
