Trips to Neuschwanstein Castle: Tips, Tickets and Tours (2026)
Neuschwanstein is the most famous German castle in the world. Although Munich is my second hometown and I visited this Bavarian Fairytale castle, more than I can count, I love to go back there again and again. So if you’re planning your trips to Neuschwanstein castle, this guide will answer all your questions.
I’ll show you the best way to get to Neuschwanstein, amazing day-trips from Munich to Neuschwanstein, and how long your visit will take and where this beautiful Disney castle is located on the map. Also We’ll talk about the best month to visit Neuschwanstein and the best guided tours of Neuschwanstein Castle we’ve had till now.
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Cheat Sheet
- Ticket Booking: Official Website of Neuschwanstein Castle
- Neuschwanstein Day-Tour From Munich: Book our favorite tour here.
- Hotel with Castle View: Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel
- Book Your Hotel in Munich: Hotel Platzl, Hilton City Hotel, Hotel Holiday Inn City.
- Nearest Airport: Best option is Munich International Airport.
About Neuschwanstein Castle
There’s a good reason, why Neuschwanstein is called a “fairytale castle” of Disney. Because Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Disney‘s sleeping Beauty Castle. And that’s basically the reason why Neuschwanstein Castle is so famous.
Who built the Neuschwanstein Castle: King Ludwig II of Bavaria (also known as the Crazy King Ludwig II) built the castle. Although it was actually his personal refuge, but the architecture of the castle is unique.
The Mysterious life of Crazy King Ludwig: He began the construction in 1869. There’s also a legend that he’s got crazy at the end of his life, so that’s why the name” Crazy King Ludwig Castle”. He died in a mysterious way in 1886, so couldn’t complete the construction.
Where is Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein castle is Located in the Bavarian Alps in southern Germany. THe closest city to this Fairytale Castle is a beautiful small town called Füssen. Although it’s a beautiful town, but it’s a small one with less options. We suggest to stay in Munich, so that you can have more of your time.
Also the village where Neuschwanstein Castle is located is called Hohenschwangau and the municipality surrounding the castle area is called Schwangau. You might hear those names a lot, so we wanted to clarify this before getting confused, like many others. Now let’s dive in!
How long is the drive from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle:
From Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle is about 2 hours drive. Also with train it almost take the same time. You can also book a tour for Day-Trips to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Map
How to get the Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets
Let’s talk about the most important part of planning your trips to Neuschwanstein Castle. And that’s how to get the tickets for the Bavarian Disney Castle.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets:
First thing first: Yes, you can go inside Neuschwanstein Castle, but only with a ticket and on a guided tour. Also Access to the interior part of the castle is limited and only allowed during a scheduled guided tour included with your ticket.
If you don’t have a ticket, you can still walk up to the castle and enjoy the fantastic panoramic view of the town and the alps (more on that below). Also you can take any photos or films inside the castle.
Note: The Best Way to get the Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets is online using Neuschwanstein Castle Official Website. You can book your time slot and book the tickets a bit earlier. During summer time it sells out very fast. Here is the link to their Official Website.
How Much does the tickets Cost
Cost of Neuschwanstein Castle is 21 Euro and the kids get a free entry till 18 years old. Unfortunately you can’t cancel or rebook the tickets. You can also buy the tickets at the Museum of the Castle Hohenschwangau for the same day, but we don’t recommend it. In summer can be very busy and a long line to buy the tickets.
Hohenschwangau Castle is right next to the parking lot and the museum too, so you don’t have to walk long distance. But as said the best way to book the tickets is Online in advance. If you’re interested to visit the Hohenschwangau Castle which is also close to the Neuschwanstein, you can also by the combi tickets for 45 Euros.
Neuschwanstein Castle opening hours
Neuschwanstein castle is open daily from 9am to 6pm (April -15. October) and 10am – 4 pm from 16. October to 31. March. Also it’s closed on December 24, 25, 31 and January 1st. And it’s also open on Sundays. The Hohenschwangau castle is open till 4pm.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tour Tickets: What’s included?
- You’ll get a guided interior tour about 40 minutes
- Access to the most famous rooms and halls
- Historical explanations about King Ludwig II
- Multilingual audio guides (but that depends on the availability)
Pro Tip: If you’re getting to to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich, without a private car, there is no direct train/bus to the castle (see the section how to get there for details). For more comfort, we recommend to book a a full Day-Tour to Neuschwanstein & Linderhof castle from Munich (around €70) .You’ll also visit the whole area. Check the Neuschwanstein Full-Day tour here.
Best Neuschwanstein Castle Guided tours
Trips to Neuschwanstein from Munich are not non-stop. You need to change the train in Füssen and organize the tickets yourself. If you want it more comfortable, there are great Neuschwanstein day tours from Munich, we booked ourselves. If you have limited time in Bavaria, you can see more with a day-tour.
- Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Trip: We always book this tour in Getyourguide and it’s a fantastic one. You also have free cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip. The tour takes around 10-11 hours including the skip-the-line tickets. You’ll also visit the Linderhof Castle, which is another beautiful Castle of King Ludwig II. Check the Prices and Availability here.
- Both Castles are UNESCO World Heritage sites and definitely worth a visit. Tour of the Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau castle should definitely be on your bucket list, when visiting Bavaria.
- The cost of the Neuschwanstein Castle Tour is around €80, depending on the season. Be careful about the options, some tours don’t offer the ticket and you should pay extra for the tickets. Also Food and drinks are not included, but you’ll have lots of options in Hohenschwangau.
How to get to Neuschwanstein Castle
If you have enough time or you’re traveling on budget and want to take the trips to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau yourself, here is my full guide how to get to Neuschwanstein Castle:
Public transport to Neuschwanstein castle
Going to Neuschwanstein Castle, using public transport is straightforward and quite easy. You only need to change the train in Füssen and get the bus. Here is how it works:
Neuschwanstein Castle by Train
If you’re in Munich or in Austria, just take the train to Füssen (nearest city to Neuschwanstein). From Munich you’ll need around 2 hours to reach Hohenschwangau and from Austria, it depends from which city you’re coming. You can check the train options here.
From Füssen you can take the bus 73 or 78 (directly at the train station) toward Hohenschwangau. The bus ride takes about 15 minutes. From Hohenschwangau, it’s around 40 minutes walk uphill to Neuschwanstein.
Pro Tip: From Hohenschwangau (where you normally reach by bus/tour/car) it’s about 40 minutes walk uphill to reach Neuschwanstein castle. But you can also take the shuttle bus or horse carriage. We normally walk up or take the carriage (when I’m with my mom). Also if you need a bus to walk back downhills, make sure you’ll catch the last one.
Neuschwanstein Castle by Car
I also drive there very often and what I love about driving to Neuschwanstein is that you’ll have the freedom to visit other places around as well. Also parking is very comfortable. There’s a huge parking at Hohenschwangau where you can park and walk up/take shuttle bus/Carriage to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Pro Tip: For those who like to bike, you can also get a bike at Füssen and bike to Hohenschwangau. We did it once and the views are breathtaking. Germany is in general a very bike-friendly country and we always feel safe to bike between the towns.
Best Month For Trips to Neuschwanstein Castle
What is the Best Month to Visit Neuschwanstein: Answering this question as a photographer is not that easy, because the Castle is always beautiful and picturesque. But as a traveler, summer, fall and spring would be more comfortable. Alps can get really cold and snowy in winter and might be a bit difficult to hike up. Here we have a complete break-down for each month:
What is the Best month to visit Neuschwanstein
Neuschwanstein in Spring:
Neuschwanstein in spring is a good option because there are fewer tourists and crowds. Also you still have a mix of snow and a bit of greenery. But Neuschwanstein Castle in March is a bit naked, so if you want a bit of a green and blossoms, it’s better to visit at the end of April and May.
Also dress in layers because the temperatures change quickly. Also it’s located in Alps, so there’s still snow up on the mountains in March and can be cold. Check the weather and dress accordingly. We recommend End of April and May, if you’re heading there in Spring.
Neuschwanstein in Summer:
We find summer the best month for the first-time visitors to visit Neuschwanstein. Because it’s so scenic and so green, also the weather and the temperatures are fantastic. So you can enjoy the nature and the sightseeing the best.
Because it’s located at the Alp, all 3 months are great and mild weather. We love the trips to Neuschwanstein Castle in June and July, because the meadows are full of cows and the flowers are blooming. Although the weather is still fantastic in August, but it can be extremely crowded.
Pro Tip: We also recommend to take a light jacket, even if you’re visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in the summer, as it can be a bit colder sometimes.
Neuschwanstein in the Fall
Fall is one of the most underrated times to visit this fairytale Disney castle. Neuschwanstein Castle September is still blooming with mild temperatures with less crowd. Also We love to visit Neuschwanstein in October, because the forest around the castle turns into gold and orange. the temperatures are around 15°C, which is perfect for walking up the hill. October is definitely one of my favorite months.
Neuschwanstein Castle in November is very different. it’s quite and actually most of the fall colors begin to fade and it goes toward late autumn. You’ll also see the snow on the mountains and the temperatures drop to 4-9°C. Also days are a bit shorter. So if you want those kind of Instagrammable pictures, that might not be the best month.
Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter
Neuschwanstein Castle in Snow is so dreamy and so beautiful, but it can be quite cold. Although we’ve visited the Disney castle several times in winter and as long as the roads are clear, it’s can turn out to one of the best trips to Neuschwanstein Castle.
So our first tip is to wear enough layers as it can be cold up to -4°C and you’ll enjoy a kind of private atmosphere, but it’s not empty. Neuschwanstein in December is so beautiful and dreamy, specially if it snows. Also the villages around it are full of Christmas markets and decorations. As you know Germany has the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world.
Neuschwanstein Castle in January and the beginning of February can be beautiful for photography if the snow is all around the castle. It might be a bit difficult to climb up, unless you have good hiking shoes. But you can still use the Shuttle bus.
Things to do in Hohenschwangau
I must admit that although this castle looks beautiful from outside, don’t expect much from inside. Because as said before, the castle wasn’t completed, but still it’s definitely worth a visit.
But there are so many things to do when you arrive to Hohenschwangau, so here is a full guide how to spend a day in Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein Castle:
1. Take the Guided Castle Tour
The guided tour will take around 30-40 minutes and you’ll visit the private chambers of King Ludwig as well as the famous Hall. Book your tickets in advance on Neuschwanstein Castle official Website, if you’re not traveling there with a tour. Also you can visit the Neuschwanstein Castle gift shop at the end of your tour.
2. Walk to Marienbrücke (Mary’s bridge)
You should definitely walk up to Marienbrücke, because we took most of the panoramic photos you see in this post, from Marienbrücke. Believe me it’s definitely the best part of the trips to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Where is Marienbrücke: Actually is very close and It’s just a 5 minutes walk behind the castle. From the From the bridge you can take the best photos of the Castle’s front, the forest around it and the waterfalls down the gorge. Take a few minutes to walk slightly off the bridge along the trail to get the best angle for photography.
3. Visit Hohenschwangau castle
I know that everyone wants to see the Neuschwanstein Castle, but personally I think that Hohenschwangau Castle is also a hidden gem and it’s definitely worth a visit. The view of the castle overlooking the lake is breathtaking.
This beautiful Castle is also just a 10 minutes walk from the parking lot and you can also buy the tickets at the museums office or online at their official website. We normally take the combi tickets for both castles. Hohenschwangau castle is the castle near Neuschwanstein Castle.
Hohenschwangau has a deep history and it is the home of King Ludwig’s parents. The Tour takes around 30 minutes as well.
4. Spend some time in the Village of Hohenschwangau
We love to spend some time in the cute and picturesque German villages and Hohenschwangau is one of them. Also the Restaurant Schlossbrauhaus in Schwangau with a traditional Bavarian Cuisine is always on our bucketlist.
We definitely suggest to try the roast pork with dumplings or their Schnitzel and Spätzle. In summer you can also sit outside in the garden, which is so beautiful.
Insider Tip: Go earlier for lunch like at 11:30 or 12pm, so you’ll get a table to sit. During high-season, it’ can be quite packed.
If You’re heading to Munich, also read my free guides about:
Hotel Platzl Review: A Bavarian Stay in Downtown Munich
Hotel Review: Moxy Karlsruhe by Marriott Bonvoy, Germany
Garmisch Partenkirchen – Hotel Zugspitze Review (2026)
Accommodation near Neuschwanstein Castle
We love to stay in Schwangau or Hohenschwangau, and spend 2-3 days there to have enough time to hike the beautiful trails around this region and visit the castles. If you’re planning your trips to Neuschwanstein with an overnight stay near the castle, we tried 3 of the dreamiest hotels.
Villa Ludwig Suite Hotel
We loved this beautiful boutique hotel. It’s a true Bavarian style hotel and so charming. We also loved their restaurant and the food. Also all the rooms have balconies and the view is fantastic. We could easily walk to the Neuschwanstein Castle. Also the treatment in the spa was amazing and very refreshing.
We booked the Comfort Suite with Castle View and this is a must-have. It’s breathtaking and you just don’t want to sleep. We paid $350/night in April and the hotel is absolutely worth it. You have to book early, as it sells out fast. Check the prices and availabilities here.
Hotel Müller Hohenschwangau
This cute hotel is right in the heart of the Hohenschwangau village and it’s between the Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle. It’s also a Bavarian style hotel with elegant rooms and some rooms have balconies as well. We also loved the restaurant and their fantastic wine selection.
It’s a great location to visit the Neuschwanstein Hotel, because the Carriage is right in front of the hotel. We had the superior room for $300 at the end of May and it was fantastic. If you like to stay in a real Bavarian Hotel in a real Bavarian village, that’s a great option. Check the prices and availability here.
Hotel AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa
Another large and stylish resort with stunning view is the AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort. This beautiful hotel is right at the Lake Aplsee and has direct access to the lake. Also the rooms are spacious and very scenic.
We also loved the spa which is huge with different saunas, indoor pool and treatments. A great place to relax and actually it’s fantastic for couples or honeymooners. Also the Schloss Bräustüberl (A Bavarian Restaurant) in the hotel offers fantastic dishes.
We actually stayed there for hiking and loved the spa after a long hiking day. Also it’s very close to Hohenschwangau Castle and steps away from Neuschwanstein Hotel. We booked the Deluxe Room with Lake View which I highly recommend and paid $500/night in October, but it’s cheaper in spring. Check the prices and availabilities here.
Best Cities Near Hohenscwangau
I lived more than 25 years in Bavaria and I must say it has so many beautiful corners that I still haven’t seen enough. And I’ve been traveling a lot in Bavaria and southern Germany. So if you have time to stay a bit longer in Bavaria, there are also some other towns, that are definitely worth a visit.
1.Füssen – A colorful, fairytale city
The first time I went to Füssen, I really thought I’m in a fairytale world. Such a cute, colorful but historical city. Also you can see the Alps all over the city, which gives it another scenic view. So if you have time, take a break to visit the Reichenstrasse (the main street) and walk around before going to Neuschwanstein Castle.
What to do in Füssen: It’s a very historical and lively city. Specially in summer, you can sit outside in one of the restaurants and have a lunch or dinner with that special German flair. Also the Rathaus of Füssen is stunning for such a small city it’s quite historical. Also take a walk at the St. Mang’s Abby, which is the riverside of Füssen.
2. Garmisch- Pattenkirchen: A Must-Visit
If you’re planning your trips to Neuschwanstein castle, Garmisch-Pattenkirchen is another beautiful Alpine town that you have to visit. We love to go back there again and again because of it’s scenic views and real traditional Bavarian houses. You’ll fall in love with this city and the nature around it.
It’s actually a perfect place for sky-lovers and it’s Germany’s highest mountain, so if you’re a skyer, that’s the right place for you. Also we go there in summer, spring or fall for hiking, as it has fantastic hiking trails with jaw-dropping views.
Garmisch-Pattenkirchen is about 60 km from Neuschwanstein Castle which is around 1.25 hours. I wouldn’t do it in one day, as it will be too much, but if you stay in Munich or Hohenschwangau, you could do a day-trip to Garmisch. You can easily get to Garmisch by train from Munich.
Tips for Your Trips to Neuschwanstein Castle
- Buy Your Tickets Online in advance, specially during the high-seson, so that you’ll skip the long lines.
- Wear Comfortable shoes, because you’re going to hike up and down the mountain. Although the way is easy but it’s steep and the whole area is like a real village, so you need the appropriate cloths and shoes.
- Check the weather closer to your trip, specially if you’re traveling in winter. So that you’re sure the roads are fine to drive and to walk.
Final Words before booking your trips to Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is definitely a must-visit if you’re visiting southern Germany. It’s one-in-a-kind experience and not only the castle but also the whole area is fascinating with a beautiful nature.
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