Neuschwanstein Castle in the Bavarian Alps near Fuessen is the most photographed castle in Europe and the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Ludwig II of Bavaria built it from 1869 as a private retreat and Wagnerian stage set; every interior wall depicts scenes from Wagner’s operas. He lived here for only 172 days and died in 1886 before it was finished. The castle opened to the public six weeks later. Guided tours are required for interior access. Timed-entry tickets sell out weeks in advance in summer; book early. The Marienbruecke viewpoint above the Pollat gorge gives the classic elevated perspective. Train from Munich to Fuessen (2 hours), then bus to Hohenschwangau and a 40-minute walk uphill. Adults EUR 15.
castle in Munich
Neuschwanstein Castle
Also known as Schloss Neuschwanstein
Neuschwanstein is the most photographed castle in Europe, and it was never finished. Ludwig II lived here for a total of 172 days before his death in 1886; the chapel and watchtower never progressed beyond foundations.
- Type
- castle
- Destination
- Munich
- Cost
- Paid entry
- Founded
- 1869
- Era
- Romanesque Revival
- Address
- Neuschwansteinstrasse 20, 87645 Munich
- Coordinates
- 47.5576, 10.7497
- Official website
- Visit website