Holiday Ayo - Neuschwanstein is known as a castle of paradox. It was built in a time when castles were no longer necessary as strongholds, and, despite its romanticized medieval design, Louis also required it to have all the newest technological comforts.

Neuschwanstein means “New Swan Stone”. The name of the castle derives from one of Wagner's opera's character, the Swan Knight.

The Neuschwanstein castle was built for only one person, the King Ludwig II. Neuschwanstein is so immense though, that in some days it is visited by up to 6000 tourists.

The Neuschwanstein castle was also the model for Disney's Cinderella castle and is probably one of the most visited castles in Germany.

In the throne room, the forms of Romanesque, Gothic and Byzantine art were mixed and supplemented by the new technical achievements of the late 19th century.

From over 200 rooms, only 20 were completed before the mysterious death of the king. Most of these areas are shown in the castle tours.

Seven weeks after the death of King Ludwig II in 1886, Neuschwanstein was opened to the public. The shy king had built the castle in order to withdraw from public life.

This castle can only be visited on a tour. Tickets can be purchased in combination with Neuschwanstein.

Tours of each castle take roughly 35 minutes, but the entire experience of picking up tickets, walking/taking the bus to the castles, touring both castles, and time between tours adds up to around 4-5 hours total.

Neuschwanstein Castle is worth visiting for its unique architecture inside and out. It's gorgeously highlighted in the nighttime, has stunning views of the mountains, and its history inspired Walt Disney.

It's genuinely a fairytale castle where you can spend a whole weekend.

How to Get There

The Neuschwanstein Castle is a perfect day trip from Munich, Germany. Trains leave hourly from Munich's main train station, Munich Hauptbahnhof.

While the castle is in a tiny village called Hohenschwangau, you'll need to book your ticket to Füssen, a charming little town just a 10-minute bus ride away.