At the end of a business trip in August, instead of flying back to London I drove hundreds of miles across Germany with the goal of visiting castles. You can see the post recapping the trip here but it is no secret that Neuschwanstein Castle clearly is the holy grail. Since I was visiting on a Sunday in late Summer, everything I read said it was going to be one of the busiest days of the year especially as it was school holidays (in Europe kids only get four to six weeks off for summer, instead of the months in the States). As such, I booked the first possible tour, the 9am, and was shocked to learn my ticket pickup time was “no later than” 7:30am.
However; after the day was over, I realized why. My ticket pickup was at 7:30 and by the time I got in line at 7:20am, I was already 25th in line and it did not open for more than an hour. . The ticket hall only opens at half past so I was able to get my tickets by 7:40. The pamflet they give you with your tickets warns it cane take nearly an hour to get up to the castle. Because it is such a far way there are many options to get to Neuschwanstein Castle – you can pay to take a horse and cart, take a bus, or walk and the walk is not a joke, it’s more of a hike. There are benches every 2-3 minutes, and they say the walk takes 40 minutes but it took me 30.
As I got to the top at 8:10 for my 9am tour it sounded like plenty of time but I knew I wanted to check out the castle vista point, Mary’s Bridge. Based on my speedy assent I ignored the map saying the bridge was 20 minutes each and headed straight there. Walking fast, I made it in 15, took a ton of photos with my tripod and nearly sprinted back downhill to the castle for my tour. I rushed because the ticket says you to be 10 minutes early for the tour but after sprinting like crazy I soon understood it was just be “early”, I’m a very Germanic way, as the ticket gates open at 9 and everyone had scanned in by 9:02.
Like many castles across Europe there were no photos allowed inside this gorgeous castle but it makes you pay attention and I think the oddest part was that no one ever lived in this massive castle. Here are some of my favorite rooms, from their website as I really did follow the rules and not take photos.
And seven insider tips for visiting Neuschwanstein:
- Book ahead of time. (People who were buying tickets day of often got yours for 6 hours later, and you must have a tour to visit).
- Wear good walking shoes.
- Bring a back up charger – loose service frequently and phones roam.
- Have water and snacks, they are a rip off their
- Forgettable tour at the other one. Take the stair climb up (much shorter) tour the grounds for free.
- Try and avoid taking a tour bus, stay overnight in Füssen for an early morning start or arrive post (3pm after the busses leave.
- No big bags (backpacks) allowed in the castle but there are lockers at the top for a nominal fee.
And for those who asked when I posted a shot on Instagram, I am wearing EULLA Women Sleeveless Halterneck Playsuit in Floral which is less than 20 pounds on Amazon and perfect for any upcoming warm weather holiday!
Would you go to Neuschwanstein Castle?
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Lori says
I want to be there with you. Great job with all the logistics to get the shots with no people in them and get those spectacular views.
I would think this is the most famous castle in all of the world thanks to Mr. Disney and his vision.
Often I buy the post cards of the spots I visit and I know that the lighting, no people etc. can never be matched by my camera even though it is a good one.
Great job Kelly and I look forward to getting there one day.
Tammy says
This looks like a lot of fun. Very historic. Hiking it is the best way. I love your cute romper.
Gerry says
Such an iconic spot.
Gorgeous!
Jessica says
Oh my gosh, I am so jealous. I always wondered where that castle was. As a little girl I really thought Tinkerbell or Cinderella lived in that castle. I never knew what it was modeled after.
It looks like it really didn’t disappoint. You got great photos from amazing vantage point.
Lucy says
This castle is definitely on my bucket list, wow!
xx
Lucy