Neuschwanstein Castle, situated in Bavaria, Germany, is a magical and breathtaking place. It's one of the most visited castles in the world, with more than a million tourists from different parts of the world visiting it every year. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the late 19th century and is considered to be one of the most romantic and enchanting castles in Europe.
If you're planning to visit Neuschwanstein, there are some things that you need to know. In this long read, we'll take a look at everything you need to know to make your trip to Neuschwanstein unforgettable.
Getting to Neuschwanstein
Neuschwanstein Castle is located in the village of Hohenschwangau in southern Germany, about two hours from Munich. The easiest way to get there is by car, but if you don't have one, there are other options. You can take a train to the nearby town of Fussen, which is just a 10-minute drive away from the castle. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to the castle.
If you're coming from Munich, you can also take a tour bus that will take you directly to the castle. These tours are quite popular, and you can find them online or at travel agencies in Munich.
Tickets and Tours
If you want to visit the castle, you need to buy tickets in advance. You can purchase tickets online on the official website or at the ticket center in Hohenschwangau. It's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance as the lines can be long and waiting times can be quite lengthy.
There are different types of tickets available, including the basic castle tour, the combination ticket, and the VIP tour. The basic castle tour is the most popular and takes you through the main rooms of the castle. The combination ticket includes a visit to both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles. The VIP tour is a private tour that takes you to areas of the castle that are not accessible to the public.
If you don't want to bother with purchasing tickets and figuring out transportation, there are plenty of tour companies that offer Neuschwanstein Castle tours. These tours usually include transportation to and from the castle, skip-the-line tickets, and a tour guide who will take you through the castle.
Visiting Neuschwanstein
Once you have your tickets, it's time to visit the castle. The castle is open every day except for December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st. The castle opens at 9 am and closes at 6 pm, although the exact opening and closing times can vary depending on the season.
It's recommended to arrive early in the morning, especially if you're visiting during peak season. The lines can get quite long, and you may end up waiting for hours to get into the castle. If you're visiting during the summer months, be prepared for crowds, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes as there's quite a bit of walking involved.
Once you get inside the castle, you'll be given an audio guide that will take you through the different rooms of the castle. The audio guide is available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Japanese, and Chinese.
The tour takes about 30 minutes and will take you through the main rooms of the castle, including the Throne Room, the Hall of Singers, and the Grotto. The rooms are decorated with beautiful paintings and murals, and there are plenty of historical artifacts to admire.
Tips for Visiting Neuschwanstein
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle:
Buy Tickets in Advance: As mentioned earlier, it's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance as the lines can be quite long, and you may end up waiting for hours to get into the castle.
Dress for the Weather: The castle is located in the mountains, and the weather can be quite unpredictable. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go and dress appropriately. It's also a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella in case of rain.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: There's quite a bit of walking involved, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Take Photos: The castle is one of the most photographed landmarks in Germany, and for good reason. Take plenty of photos to capture the beauty and charm of the castle.
Explore the Surrounding Area: The surrounding area is just as beautiful as the castle itself. Take some time to explore the nearby lakes, forests, and mountains.
Try the Local Cuisine: Bavarian cuisine is famous for its hearty and delicious dishes. Make sure to try some of the local specialties while you're there, such as Schnitzel, Spätzle, and Weisswurst.
Plan Your Visit Wisely: If you're visiting during peak season, it's a good idea to plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Conclusion
A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle is a must for anyone visiting Bavaria. It's a magical and enchanting place that will leave you in awe. Make sure to plan your visit in advance, buy tickets early, and dress for the weather. Take plenty of photos, explore the surrounding area, and try some of the delicious local cuisine. With a little bit of planning and preparation, your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle will be an unforgettable experience.