Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets

4.4(4.6K Ratings)

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Neuschwanstein castle tickets






From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
lutz polland

Lutz

Jul 2025
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Thanks to good advice, we got in with our online ticket got in without any complications. The castle is interesting. We enjoyed the visit. A short journey through history.
Daniel Daley
GB

Daniel

United Kingdom
Jun 2025
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First class experience. Stephen our guide was extremely informative and made the whole experience a memory to be treasured. Thank you
Elmar Sendel

Elmar

Jun 2025
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Beautiful guided tour. Interesting information about the history of the castles. Detailed insights into the life of the Kini.
Thomas John Miner
GB

Thomas

United Kingdom
Jun 2025
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We were a bit apprehensive about embarking on a 10hr day out, but it went really quickly. Our guide, Pedro, was very thourogh with the organisation and provided us with local information. The coach was comfortable, the restaurant was ok. We found Linderhof more interesting if not as spectacular as Neuschwanstein, largely because the guide made the his tour more entertaining. We felt hustled through the Neuschwanstein tour then dumped out the back door.
James Dean Kersten
US

James

United States
May 2025
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Our guide was fun and the tours were great. Neuschwanstein is breathtaking. There were actually paragliders sailing above the castle. Fun to see!
Jack Webb

Jack

Jan 2019
My daughter got to be driven up to a disney style castle today, and then toured around it. The pictures from the excellent vantage points are going to help her remember this all her life
Heather Reynolds

Heather

Jan 2019
My boyfriend and I got some stares for beig on this adventure without a child. Let me let you know, this is NOT just for children. The marvel of this castle is beyond words.
Florida Bulnes
MX

Florida

Mexico
Sep 2024
Elisabeth and Mueriel (the driver) are a great team. She is funny, sweet and you can tell she enjoys her job The bus was clean and quiet. I thank the goodie bag of the premium package. Congratulations

Top things to do in Munich

Neuschwanstein Castle of Bavaria | King Ludwig II’s Swan Castle

Perched high in the Bavarian Alps, the Neuschwanstein Castle was envisioned as a personal retreat for the ‘Mad King’ Ludwig II. The palace’s towering spires and swan motifs reflect the king’s fascination with medieval chivalry and Wagnerian operas. The castle’s fairytale-like architecture has inspired many, including Walt Disney, who modeled Sleeping Beauty’s Castle after it. Though King Ludwig never saw the castle fully completed, Neuschwanstein lives on, drawing millions of visitors every year.

Why visit Neuschwanstein Castle?

Why visit Neuschwanstein Castle?
  • Historical significance: Nicknamed ‘Mad King Ludwig’ for his eccentricities and lavish spending, King Ludwig II of Bavaria was a great patron of the arts. He commissioned the castle as a retreat from royal duties and a homage to the operas of Richard Wagner.
  • Scenic surroundings: The Disney Castle of Munich is perched on a rugged hill in the foothills of the Alps, overlooking the village of Hohenschwangau and the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see across the Bavarian countryside for miles. 
  • Fairytale castle comes to life: Neuschwanstein is the epitome of a Romantic fairytale castle with its turrets, towers, and colorful frescoes. Walking through the castle grounds feels like stepping into a world of knights, princesses, and dragons.
  • Cultural icon: The Neuschwanstein Castle has been featured in countless movies, and TV shows, and even inspired the design of Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle, cementing its status as an iconic landmark. 
  • Outdoor activities: The surrounding mountains are perfect for outdoor adventures like cycling and horseback riding. You can explore trails, visit the nearby Linderhof Palace and Hohenschwangau Castle, or simply stroll through the scenic countryside.

Things to know before booking Neuschwanstein Castle tickets

Located at the foothills of the Alps in the Swabia region of Southern Germany, Neuschwanstein is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Southern Bavaria.

  • Before diving into ticket options and how to choose the right ticket, it’s important to first understand the castle network. A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle opens up the possibility of seeing two other castles nearby: the Hohenschwangau and Linderhof Castles.
  • Neuschwanstein Castle is situated near the town of Hohenschwangau, just a few hundred meters away from Hohenschwangau Castle, the former home of Bavarian royalty. In fact, the Neuschwanstein ticket office is located at Hohenschwangau Castle, making it easy to visit both castles in one day. For a seamless experience, consider booking a Neuschwanstein guided tour that includes access to both.
  • Linderhof Palace, on the other hand, is about an hour’s drive from Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles. With proper planning or a combo tour, you can easily visit all three castles in a single-day trip.

Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles

  • An important detail about Neuschwanstein Castle is that entry to the palace and its rooms are only available through guided tours. If you wish to explore the castle's interiors, including its many rooms and artwork, ensure your Neuschwanstein guided tours includes access to the interior. Standard tickets only allow access to the castle grounds, where you can admire the exterior of the castle.
  • Neuschwanstein Castle is perfect for a day trip, with the journey from Munich to Hohenschwangau taking only about two hours. To avoid the hassle of arranging transportation, we recommend booking Neuschwanstein guided tours with transfers from Munich.
  • Most tours to Neuschwanstein Castle also include a visit to Mary’s Bridge, a nearby bridge known for its iconic view of the castle. Access to the bridge is free, but availability depends on weather conditions.
  • For a different experience, you can also book Neuschwanstein Castle summer tours, which allow you to explore the castle grounds and enjoy a bike tour around Hohenschwangau.
  • You may also want to consider horse-drawn carriage tours, which take you from Hohenschwangau Castle to Neuschwanstein Castle in traditional, old-fashioned carriages.

Linderhof Palace

  • We also recommend visiting Linderhof Palace, just 45 kilometers from Neuschwanstein. Our premium Neuschwanstein and Linderhof tours offer luxurious, air-conditioned cars, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary refreshments. If you plan to travel on your own, note that there is no direct public transportation between the two castles, so driving is the most convenient way to visit both in one day.
  • You can choose between bus or train transfers when booking Neuschwanstein and Linderhof day trip tickets. Between January and March, the weather can be unpredictable, making bus travel difficult. We recommend opting for train transfers if you're planning to visit during the winter months.

Neuschwanstein tours from Munich

What’s inside Neuschwanstein Castle?

Inside Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Throne Room: This room features a magnificent throne for King Ludwig II, although he never occupied it due to his early death. The space is adorned with frescoes and ornate carvings, depicting scenes from Wagner’s operas. 
  • Singers’ Hall: This hall is inspired by Richard Wagner's opera ‘Tannhauser’ and features frescoes that depict scenes from the legend of the minstrel-knight Tannhauser. 
  • King’s bedroom: King Ludwig II's bedroom is a lavishly decorated space, featuring a canopied bed and ornate furnishings. It offers a glimpse into the king's living quarters and his affinity for luxury.
  • Queen’s bedroom: The Queen’s bedroom is also decorated with expensive artifacts, however, it is much more modest in comparison to King Ludwig II’s private quarters. 
  • Grottos: Grottos are a unique feature of the Neuschwanstein Castle. They are artificial caves with indoor waterfalls and a small throne. King Ludwig II was often known to retreat to these spaces. 
  • Dining room: As the name suggests, this is the room where King Lugwig II dined with his guests. The room is lined with decorative wood paneling and has large windows, bathing the inside in soft, warm hues. 

Plan your visit to the Ludwig Castle of Bavaria

Neuschwanstein Castle Timings
  • 23 March to 15 October: 9 am to 6 pm
  • 16 October to 22 March: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Closed on: 1 January, 24, 25, and 31 December

Duration of visit: Depending on the kind of Neuschwanstein Castle tickets you book, you must spend at least a day or around 7 to 10 hours exploring the castle premises comfortably. This includes your transfers to the castle and access to the Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Palace premises.

Best time to visit: April to May and September to October, the shoulder seasons, are the best months to visit the castle. The weather is pleasant with fall foliage and spring blossoms. We recommend avoiding the winter months, for the Marienbrucke (Mary's Bridge) is most often inaccessible and the weather is too cold for bus journeys.

Neuschwanstein Castle timings

Address: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, 87645 Schwangau, Germany
Find on maps

  • By car or coach: Take the A7 motorway towards Ulm-Kemptem-Fussen. From Fussen, follow the road B17 to Schwangau. You will see signs that will lead you to Hohenschwangau. 
  • By train: To reach Neuschwanstein Castle, you have to take a train to Fussen, and then catch a bus to Neuschwanstein. The nearest stop is Hohenschwangau.

Note: If you are unable to walk from the entrance to the Neuschwanstein Castle, you can avail of a horse-drawn carriage ride. The carriages operate all around the year for a small fee of around €8. You can board them from Hotel Muller. You can also take the shuttle bus. They drop you off a few meters away from the entrance. You have to walk downhill for about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the castle.

Getting to the Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle entrances
  • Main entrance: The main gate of the Neuschwanstein Castle is situated at the base of the castle hill and is adorned with decorative elements typical of medieval castles, including crenellations, arches, and ornate ironwork.
  • Inner courtyard entrance: After passing through the main gate, you can ascend the hill via a winding pathway or shuttle bus to reach the inner courtyard of Neuschwanstein Castle. This gate is flanked by impressive stone walls adorned with decorative motifs and heraldic symbols.
  • Gatehouse Bridge: While not a traditional entrance in the sense of providing access to the castle grounds, the Marienbrucke serves as a picturesque vantage point for capturing stunning photographs of Neuschwanstein. You can access the bridge via a short hike from the castle or from a designated viewing platform along the pathway leading to the castle.
Neuschwanstein Castle interiors
Facilities Available at Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Wheelchair access: The Neuschwanstein Castle has a lift on which wheelchair users can go to the second level of the castle. If you have any special requirements, you have to inform the castle authorities in advance. You can avail of a low-level shuttle bus or a horse-drawn carriage to reach the castle doors from its entrance. 
  • Photography: You cannot click pictures inside the castle, however, you can click pictures in the castle gardens. 
  • Multivision show: On the second floor of the Neuschwanstein Castle, you can enjoy a free multi-vision show about King Ludwig II and his many castles. 
  • Restrooms: You will find barrier-free toilets on the second floor of the Castle and at the kiosk (opposite Zimmerman). 
  • Cafe: On the second floor of the Neuschwanstein Castle, Cafe Bistro offers snacks and refreshments for visitors. You can also have brunch or a late lunch at the franchised restaurant outside the castle. 
Horse-drawn carriage traveling from Hohenschwangau to Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany.
  • Getting from the hill to the castle: You cannot drive your car from the hill to the castle, even if you have limited mobility. Note that the road from the ticket counter to the main gate of the castle is uneven and patchy. It is an uphill walk and quite steep in a few places. The best way to enter the castle is to go on a horse-drawn carriage. The carriage stops a few meters away from the castle. It is best to travel to Neuschwanstein with a caregiver, for you may need help navigating the rough, uneven terrain in between.
  • Inside of Neuschwanstein Castle: There is a lift inside the Neuschwanstein Castle for wheelchair users. However, you have to register yourself at the information desk to avail of these facilities. There are barrier-free washrooms on level 2 of the castle near the cafe. Only one wheelchair user is permitted to use the lift at a time. In cases of emergencies, a staff member will help wheelchair visitors escape the castle in specially designed evacuation chairs.
Neuschwanstein tours from Munich
Locker for small items at tourist attraction entrance.
  • Large items: Backpacks, prams, and bulky objects aren't allowed inside the castle. Leave them in lockers or designated drop-off areas.
  • Photography: Taking pictures or filming inside the castle is strictly prohibited. Photography is allowed only in the courtyard.
  • Respectful behavior: Maintain a respectful volume and avoid touching the castle's walls, artwork, or furniture.
  • Food and Drinks: No food or drinks are allowed inside the castle.
  • Uneven terrain: Be aware that exploring the castle involves navigating steps and uneven surfaces. Wear comfortable shoes with a good grip.
  • Animals: Pets are not permitted inside the castle grounds.
  • Drones: Flying drones around the castle is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns.
Plan your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle
Tips to Note When Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Wear comfortable footwear: The castle is perched on a hill, and you'll need to walk uphill to reach it. Wear comfortable walking shoes to make the ascent easier.
  • Visit Queen Mary's Bridge: A short walk from the castle, the Marienbrucke offers breathtaking views of Neuschwanstein. It's a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts.
  • Respect photography rules: Photography is not allowed inside the castle's interiors. Be sure to follow this rule to respect the preservation of the historical artifacts.
view from Neuschwanstein castle
  • Journey into the castle: Take a leisurely 30-minute uphill walk to the castle entrance, enjoying scenic views as you go. You can also take a shuttle bus to Queen Mary's Bridge, a scenic overlook offering stunning views of the castle. From there, walk through a path to the castle entrance (around a 10-minute walk).
  • The tour: Walk through the opulent chambers of the castle. Admire the breathtaking throne room, modeled after the Byzantine style, featuring a beautiful mosaic floor and a gold mosaic throne. Inspired by Wagner's opera Tannhauser, the Singer's Hall boasts a magnificent ceiling mural depicting a scene from the opera.
  • The courtyard: After exploring the inside, walk through the castle courtyard at your own pace. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and capture some photos of the castle's exterior.
  • Gift shop and cafe: Browse the gift shop located near the ticket center for souvenirs and grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants in the nearby village of Hohenschwangau.
Neuschwanstein Castle guided tours
Where to eat at Neuschwanstein Castle?
  • Schwangau Castle Brewery (1.2 km): This vast, rustic venue offers comfort food and beer in a restaurant setting. They are famous for their Bavarian specialties and freshly brewed beers.
  • Alpenstuben (1.8 km): This family-friendly restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with pleasant service. They are known for their generous portions of German cuisine including sausages, noodles, and apple pie.
  • Gasthof Alpenblick (2.2 km): This traditional Bavarian Gasthof serves hearty meals in a cozy setting. You can enjoy classic dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and dumplings.
  • Asia Food Palace (2.3 km): If you're looking for a change from German fare, this restaurant offers delicious Chinese food. They are known for their authentic flavors and impeccable customer service.
  • La Perla (2.8 km): This award-winning Italian restaurant offers a charming atmosphere and a menu featuring classic Italian dishes like spaghetti, tagliatelle, and fresh seafood.
Guests enjoying a luxurious hotel stay with a stunning city view from the balcony

Neuschwanstein Castle photos

Neuschwanstein Castle photos
Neuschwanstein Castle photos
Neuschwanstein Castle photos
Neuschwanstein Castle's interiors
Neuschwanstein Castle photos

Top Instagrammable spots around Neuschwanstein Castle

Queen Mary's Bridge around Neuschwanstein Castle

Queen Mary’s Bridge (Marienbrucke)

Offering the classic 'postcard view' of the Neuschwanstein Castle, Marienbrucke or Queen Mary’s Bridge is a must-see spot on your Neuschwanstein visit. The bridge is located almost 300 feet above the Pollat Gorge in Schwangau and offers picturesque views of the surrounding areas. It is said that King Ludwig II had named the bridge after his wife.

Neuschwanstein Castle Bridge
Linderhof Palace

Linderhof Palace

This Rococo-style castle, also built by King Ludwig II, is known for its beautiful gardens, featuring fountains and ornamental flower beds. The Linderhof Palace is almost 90 kilometers away from Neuschwanstein. It typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to drive between the two castles, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Linderhof Palace tickets
Hohenschwangau Castle skip-the-line tickets

Hohenschwangau Castle

A short walk from Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau Castle was the childhood residence of King Ludwig II. This 19th-century Romanesque castle offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Alpsee lake below. Its interiors are adorned with wood carvings and tapestries, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Bavarian royalty.

Hohenschwangau Castle tickets
Alpsee around Neuschwanstein Castle

Alpsee Lake

Nestled amidst mountain slopes, Alpsee is a beautiful lake near Neuschwanstein. Alpsee reflects a serene image of the castle in its waters, making for stunning, reflective photo opportunities. You can also find wild swans and enjoy boating and hiking in this area. The Alpsee Lake is the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Neuschwanstein Castle

The Courtyard

The vast courtyard of the Neuschwanstein Castle captures its imposing stature and entrance gates from up close. The courtyard is enclosed by the castle’s impressive facades, which include intricately designed balconies and arched windows. The castle's architecture is a blend of Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine styles, transporting visitors to a bygone era.

Frequently asked questions about Neuschwanstein Castle tickets

What are the different Neuschwanstein guided tours available?

There are 3 kinds of Neuschwanstein guided tours you can choose from when planning your visit to Hohenschwangau village. The basic entry tickets with an audio guide are perfect for anyone short on time. The Neuschwanstein Castle tours allow you to explore the palace interiors and lush grounds at your own pace. And, the premium Neuschwanstein tours include luxurious, air-conditioned, round-trip transfers from Munich. They also allow you to travel to Linderhof Palace and explore Ludwig II’s other intimate residence.

Can I get skip-the-line tickets to Neuschwanstein?

A majority of the Neuschwanstein Castle full-day guided tours including transfers from Munich also allow you to skip ahead of long lines at the palace entrance. Make sure to check your ticket details before confirming your purchase.

Can I explore Neuschwanstein at my own pace?

You can only visit Neuschwanstein Castle as a part of a guided tour. Choose our entry tickets for a seamless experience. Neuschwanstein Castle guided tours include a multilingual audio guide, available in over 19 languages, for you to explore the palace interiors at your own pace.

What other castles can I visit with Neuschwanstein Castle tickets?

The Neuschwanstein Castle combo tickets include access to Ludwig II’s other castles like the Linderhof Palace and Hohenschwangau Castle. The Neuschwanstein Castle full-day guided trips allow you to explore both the castle grounds and also include round-trip transfers from Munich. The Hohenschwangau Castle guided tour includes skip-the-line access to Neuschwanstein and round-trip transfers to and from Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles.

How to reach Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich?

Take a train from Munich Hauptbahnhof (main station) to reach Fussen, the closest town to Neuschwanstein. The train journey takes around 2 hours, after which you can take bus 78 or 73 to Hohenschwangau. We recommend booking Neuschwanstein Castle guided tours, including round-trip transfers from Munich, to ensure a seamless journey. The premium guided tour is ideal for first-time visitors and those with mobility restrictions, for they include air-conditioned transfers in luxurious vehicles and also offer complimentary refreshments and free Wi-Fi on board.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?

While you can book tickets on the day of your visit, there is a chance that you may find all slots fully booked. The palace is extremely popular, attracting hundreds of visitors throughout the year, especially between June and August. We recommend booking Neuschwanstein Castle tickets online in advance to ensure guaranteed access and also take advantage of the complimentary add-ons and exclusive discounts.

What is the best way to explore Neuschwanstein Castle?

We recommend you purchase premium Neuschwanstein Castle tickets to tour the castle interiors properly. These tickets include an English-speaking professional guide, who will acquaint you with the myths and legends surrounding the castles. They also include round-trip transfers from Munich in comfortable, air-conditioned train coaches.

Can I take a day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle?

Yes, Munich is around a 2-hour drive from the Neuschwanstein Castle. You can book Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Palace day trip tickets from Munich to enjoy a long drive through gorgeous Bavarian landscapes.

Is Neuschwanstein Castle wheelchair accessible?

Yes, visitors in wheelchairs or strollers can explore the Neuschwanstein Castle with ease. It is best to bring along a friend or family, as the way to the castle entrance is uphill and uneven. The Swan Castle has an elevator on the second floor to take you to the Throne Room and King's apartments. There are horse-drawn carriages and low-level shuttle buses that run from the ticket center to the castle.

Neuschwanstein Castle Tours
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Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.