Germany has no shortage of castles. However, its most well-known castle is arguably Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloβ Neuschwanstein), the inspiration for Cinderella’s castle. The fairytale castle is in Schwangau, a village in the Bavarian region of Germany. Keep reading to learn about exploring the beautiful Schloss Neuschwanstein.
Location & History
Nestled in the German Alps, the castle sits atop a rock with the perfect view of both the mountains and bright blue lakes. Neuschwanstein is young compared to most other castles in Europe. The castle was built between 1869 and 1889 at the behest of King Ludwig II. Surprisingly, it played an important part in German history, particularly during World War II. During the war, the castle was used as a depot for stolen French art. That until its 1945 surrender to the Allied Forces. You can see this featured in the 2014 film “The Monuments Men.”
Tips To Enjoy Your Visit
When visiting, you must purchase tickets on-site. Visitors can choose to take a guided tour or just shuttle to the castle and explore the grounds. I did not go inside the castle during my two trips, but I have heard that the interior is fantastic! The castle is accessible via a shuttle that drives along the windy road leading to a drop-off point close to the castle. If taking a shuttle seems like the easy way out, riding a horse-drawn carriage to the castle and hiking (ugh) are also options!
Best View
For the best view, check out the bridge (Marienbrücke) near the drop-off spot. Along with many other visitors, you are likely to be fighting for the perfect photo op, so beware! There is a bridge I’m standing on in the photo above. This bridge is ideal for a nice view of both Neuschwanstein and the town of Hohenschwangau.
After checking out the bridge, a short walk is necessary to reach the castle finally. On the walk, breathtaking views of the Alps, Hohenschwangau, and Neuschwanstein are abundant. In addition, visitors can easily witness the intricate details of the castle as they approach the large limestone structure.
The courtyard of the castle is another beautiful spot. Painted murals in the traditional Bavarian style are front and center, along with a clock on the adjacent wall. The exterior details are certainly no match for the interior. I plan to take an interior tour of the castle on my next trip to make sure I can see the full beauty that King Ludwig II was so passionate about.
Two For One?!
When visiting Neuschwanstein, visitors can actually visit two castles! The other castle in the area is Hohenschwangau Castle (Schloβ Hohenschwangau), the childhood residence of King Ludwig II. Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau can be seen from the other. Hohenschwangau Castle originated as a fortress in the 14th century and was turned into a castle. Tours are also available for Hohenschwangau.
Why visit one castle when you can see two?!
Information on purchasing tickets and more history about Schloss Neuschwanstein is here. Information about Hohenschwangau is here. If you visit during the cold months, be sure to check the weather and possible restrictions to avoid disappointment.
I want to hear from YOU!
Have you visited Schloss Neuschwanstein? What was your favorite part? Let me know!
Until my next adventure,
Robyn ♥
Read about some of Germany’s other castles: Burg Eltz, Burg Nanstein, and Schloss Heidelburg.