No other castle in Germany has received as many visitors as Schloss Neuschwanstein, where it’s estimated that around 6,000 tourists arrive daily during summers. Others visit during fall or winter, but as part of their vacation in some winter sports resort in the Bavarian Alps. While the story behind the magnificent palace is not as idyllic as the fairy tale theme suggests, it’s part of the reason why many are drawn to visit the majestic edifice built by an eccentric Bavarian monarch named King Ludwig II.
However, there are a few important things to know before visiting Neuschwanstein since the Bavarian Castle Administration runs a tight ship in its daily operations.
Every year, from the month of April up to October 15, Neuschwanstein Castle opens at 9:00 a.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m. The schedule changes to 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. by October 16 until the end of March of the following year. The castle is closed every December 24, 25, 31 and January 01. ,
Only Travelers Booked for a Guided Palace Tour are Allowed to Enter Neuschwanstein
First off, those looking to enter the palace grounds must buy admission tickets that include booking for a guided tour. While tour agencies arrange for day trips to Neuschwanstein, make sure they already include bookings for the guided tour arranged by the Bavaria Castle Administration, as it’s the only way visitors can get in.
Generally, admission tickets are purchased from the ticket centre in the village of Hohenschwangau, Nowadays, admission tickets can be purchased online but holders still have to confirm their online reservation at the Hohenschwangau ticket center.
As of October, 2021, a Neuschwanstein ticket sells for €15 for adults, which includes the guided tour. While senior citizens and large groups can avail of discounts, those aged below 18 do not have to pay for their admission tickets.
The Bavarian Palace Tours are available either in German or English language. Recently though, the administration is also offering a guided audio tour that provides access to 17 languages.
Be forewarned that travelers with disabilities might find it difficult to enjoy a castle visit, as the bus depots and stations horse-drawn carriages will not deliver visitors at the castle entrance. Moreover, guided tours last only for 30 minutes and include steep climbs to reach the chambers and the tower that provides a panoramic view of Bavaria’s beautiful alpine landscape and scenery.
Another important thing to remember when inside the castle is that just like any museum, taking of photographs inside the castle is not allowed.
Although the original plan of the castle included 200 rooms, only 14 were completed during King Ludwig II’s lifetime. The main tour features include only the Singer’s Hall, the Throne Room, King Ludwig II’s private chamber and the man-made cave that comes complete with artificial waterfalls, dramatic stage lights and waves created by a machine.