Wondering if it’s worth visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in the winter of 2024? Dive into our guide on the pros and cons of exploring this fairy-tale landmark during colder months and discover the best times to visit.
Our fascination with castles has taken us on journeys to awe-inspiring wonders worldwide, such as Himeji Castle in Japan, Pena Palace in Portugal, Windsor Castle in the UK, Palace of Versailles in France, and Vianden Castle in Luxembourg – and Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany was another one on our bucket list for years!
With over 1.5 million visitors annually, Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Germany’s most visited landmarks year-round. So, is it worth visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in winter 2024?
This guide unveils the pros and cons of visiting Neuschwanstein Castle during winter. Discover the best time for a castle visit and explore our top tips to get the most out of your trip to Neuschwanstein Castle during the colder months.
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Is Neuschwanstein Castle Worth Visiting in the Winter of 2024?
We finally visited Neuschwanstein Castle in January. We must admit that our winter trip to the legendary Disney castle in Germany was very magical. The entire place looked like a fairytale and an enchanting winter wonderland!
There are many reasons why visiting Neuschwanstein Castle is better in the off-season. But there are also a few downsides. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of whether Neuschwanstein Castle is worth visiting in winter 2024.
Pros of Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter
1. Fewer Crowds
Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany ranks among the top 10 most visited castles worldwide. So, while having the castle entirely to yourself remains unlikely, opting for a winter visit offers a delightful respite from the bustling summer influx.
During the colder months, obtaining tickets becomes notably easier for you as the tickets are less prone to swift sell-outs experienced in summer. This translates to shorter queues and a considerable decrease in visitors.
2. Festive Vibes
Situated at the foot of the castle, the small town of Schwangau is full of festive decorations. It sparkles with twinkling lights, infusing Schwangau with an enchanting festive glow.
When we visited Neuschwanstein Castle, we bought a cup of hot Glühwein (mulled wine) and soaked in the stunning views of the towering castle before heading up. There’s something special about sipping a warm drink while snowflakes gently fall and a fairytale-like castle forms the backdrop.
3. Cheaper Travel and Accommodation
Germany is in its off-season during the winter months, particularly in January and February. This translates to reduced travel expenses and more budget-friendly accommodation options. With fewer travellers venturing out during this time, you’ll find it’s less crowded.
4. Winter Wonderland
One of the greatest perks of visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in winter is the sight of the castle draped in snow. The snow-capped mountains surrounding the fairytale-like castle and frozen lakes create a magical experience. The whole scene resembles a classic winter wonderland.
Have a look at this 3-minute YouTube video from Michael Kühneisen that shows the magic of winter at Neuschwanstein Castle from above:
Cons of Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter
1. Weather Challenges
Embracing the winter wonderland at Neuschwanstein Castle comes with its fair share of weather challenges. Be prepared for cold temperatures, snow, and potentially slippery grounds.
While the snowy landscapes often provide picture-perfect moments, not every winter day reveals such beauty. Gloomy weather, fog, or rainy spells might obscure the castle’s view.
Furthermore, be mindful of potential road closures or delays due to adverse weather conditions. Pack warm clothes, sturdy shoes, and layers for adjusting to changing weather.
2. Limited Access of Viewpoints and Walking Trails
Winter conditions occasionally prompt closures at Neuschwanstein Castle for safety reasons, potentially limiting access to certain viewpoints. One notable example is Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge), the iconic bridge leading to the castle’s best viewpoint. During our January visit, Marienbrücke was closed due to icy conditions. While there are alternative viewpoints, there is none comparable to Marienbrücke!
Additionally, icy conditions might lead to closures of nearby walking trails, impacting even more alternative viewpoints and photo opportunities.
3. Limited Daylight Hours
This goes without saying, but it’s worth highlighting that the winter months are shorter, so plan your itinerary accordingly. The reduced daylight hours with sunsets around 4:30 pm in Schwangau in December compared to 9 pm in June require prioritising activities to fit within daylight periods.
4. Shorter Opening Hours
Neuschwanstein Castle adjusts its opening hours in winter, with tours available during shorter hours compared to summer. From 23rd March to 15th October, tours run from 9 am to 6 pm, while from 16th October to 22nd March, Neuschwanstein Castle is only open from 10 am to 4 pm.
Our Verdict – Is Neuschwanstein Castle Worth Visiting in Winter 2024? While the winter experience holds its unique appeal, we lean towards exploring Neuschwanstein Castle during a period with milder weather. For first-time visitors, aiming for milder weather ensures a clearer view and access to viewing spots like Marienbrücke, which are vital for a comprehensive first impression.
However, for those familiar with its splendour in other seasons, experiencing Neuschwanstein Castle during winter offers a fresh, enchanting perspective worth embracing.
What’s the Best Time to Visit Neuschwanstein Castle? – Month & Time of Day
Recommended Months: April and October
Determining the best time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany depends on personal preferences.
If you prefer milder weather and longer daylight hours for exploring, consider April or October. These months offer below-average rainfall, lower crowds, and a good number of sunshine hours. Other favourable months include May, June, or September.
However, if you appreciate the charm of a winter wonderland and are okay with shorter days and potentially limited access to viewpoints and walking trails, experiencing the castle in winter during January and February can offer you a unique and magical ambience.
July and August mark peak tourism times for Neuschwanstein Castle, drawing more than 6,000 daily visitors. We’d recommend that you avoid these months.
Top tip: The best time of day to visit Neuschwanstein Castle is before noon or after 3pm when crowds tend to be smaller. Arriving early or staying late helps you make the most of your visit and avoid the crowds.
Where Is Neuschwanstein Castle?
Neuschwanstein Castle is located near the town of Schwangau in southwest Bavaria, Germany. Positioned atop a hill of the Bavarian Alps, the iconic fairytale-like landmark sits around 1.5 hours by car from Munich. The nearby Hohenschwangau Castle adds to the historic charm.
Neuschwanstein Castle’s Connection to Walt Disney
Beyond enchanting millions of visitors, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany captivated one particularly noteworthy guest: Walt Disney.
During a visit to Germany in 1955, Walt Disney and his wife were mesmerised by this architectural marvel. Neuschwanstein Castle profoundly inspired the design elements for the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland, California (see picture below).
This connection earned Schloss Neuschwanstein its reputation as Germany’s Disney Castle or Cinderella Castle.
Is It Worth Going Inside Neuschwanstein Castle?
Whether visiting Neuschwanstein Castle’s interior is worth it depends on your priorities. In our opinion, it’s totally worth checking out the inside as it’s as magical on the inside as on the outside. This Disney castle in Germany honestly took our breaths away, and we don’t know how anyone can look at this architectural masterpiece and not fall in love with it.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide whether it’s worth visiting the inside of Neuschwanstein Castle:
Reasons to Explore the Interior of Neuschwanstein Castle
- Historical insight: Delve into the castle’s captivating narrative and the eccentricity of its creator, King Ludwig II. Guided tours reveal his artistic inspirations and unique persona.
- Stunning aesthetics: Ludwig II’s meticulous attention to detail shines throughout the castle. From giant ceramic swans to the indoor grotto, the interior of Neuschwanstein Castle boasts captivating features. The walls are adorned with breathtaking murals, particularly in the Throne Hall, accompanied by a colossal chandelier weighing more than a car.
- Unique experience: Constructed in the 19th century, Neuschwanstein offers a distinct glimpse into royal aesthetics, setting it apart from traditional medieval castles.
Check out this 4-minute YouTube video from National Geographic Germany that provides a sneak peek into what you can expect from the interior of Neuschwanstein Castle:
Considerations Before Visiting the Interior of Neuschwanstein Castle
- Limited Time: Guided tours last about 35 minutes, allowing minimal exploration. It all feels very rushed. If you’re not okay with this, the exterior might suffice.
- No Self-Guided Tours: You can only see the interior of Neuschwanstein Castle through the official guided tours, which take around 35 minutes.
- Restricted Room Access: Only 14 of the 200 planned rooms are accessible to visitors due to the castle’s incomplete state after Ludwig II’s death.
- Admission Cost: Tickets are relatively expensive, with 18€ (approximately £16 or US$20) for a 35-minute tour. Outside grounds and viewing platforms are free to access.
- No Photography: Unfortunately, you’re not allowed to take any photos inside Neuschwanstein Castle.
- Crowds: Expect tour crowds, even during winter.
Our Verdict – Is It Worth Going Inside Neuschwanstein Castle? If you value artistic and historical richness, venturing inside Neuschwanstein Castle is worthwhile – we highly recommend it! Just be prepared for limited time, crowds, and the cost. If you’re more interested in the castle’s external beauty and prefer a quicker, cheaper experience, admiring it from the outside might suffice.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets and Prices
For the year 2024, admission fees for the guided tours within Neuschwanstein Castle cost 18€ (approximately £16 or US$20) per adult, with an additional booking fee of 2.50€ (approximately £2 or US$3) if booked online.
A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is only possible as part of a guided tour. Make sure to choose your preferred language when booking your tickets.
You can purchase same-day tickets for these guided tours to Neuschwanstein Castle at the ticket centre in Schwangau at the bottom of the hill of the castle – you can’t purchase tickets at the castle’s summit! Tickets at the centre tend to sell out quickly.
That’s why we highly recommend buying your tickets online at least a few days in advance, even during the off-peak season. You can book tickets on the official website of the Bavarian Palace Administration.
Top 8 Tips for Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter – What You Need to Know
Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in winter is a magical experience. But before you embark on your winter adventure, here are some essential tips to ensure you have a smooth and unforgettable trip:
Book Your Tickets in Advance – We can’t emphasise this enough! Tickets for Neuschwanstein Castle sell out quickly, especially between April to October. Book your tickets online in advance to avoid disappointment.
Arrive On Time For Your Guided Tour – Your ticket is valid only for a specific guided tour time slot. Don’t be late for your guided tour! Latecomers are unfortunately not allowed to join the tour.
Capture the Best Views from Marienbrücke – Marienbrücke, the iconic suspension bridge overlooking Neuschwanstein Castle, offers breathtaking panoramas that will take your breath away. If it’s open during your visit, don’t miss it! On the day of your visit, check on the official website under “Current information” to see whether access to the Marienbrücke is possible – it’s updated daily. If Marienbrücke is closed due to snow or ice, you can still get decent panoramic views from Hohenschwangau Castle (see picture below), though they don’t match the splendour of those from Marienbrücke.
Beat the Crowds – Even in winter, Neuschwanstein gets crowded. To avoid the peak rush, visit before noon or after 3 pm.
Be prepared to hike up the hill – To reach Neuschwanstein Castle, you have three options: walk, take the shuttle bus, or take a horse-drawn carriage. The walk takes about 35 minutes and offers stunning winter scenery. We truly enjoyed our hike! If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can take the horse-drawn carriage or shuttle bus up the hill (which takes about 20 minutes each). Please note that the shuttle bus doesn’t operate when there is snow or ice. So, just be prepared to hike up the hill to make it on time for your ticket slot or ascend early.
Bring Some Cash – While most places accept debit or credit cards, Germany still relies heavily on cash. In fact, 58% of payments for purchases of goods and services in Germany are still made in cash. Bring some Euros with you for souvenirs, snacks, and transportation.
Layer Up for Winter Wonderland – Pack warm clothes! Temperatures can drop significantly in winter, especially at the castle’s higher elevation. Wear layers, sturdy shoes, and a hat to stay comfortable and enjoy the winter wonderland.
Explore Hohenschwangau Castle – Across the valley lies Hohenschwangau Castle, the childhood home of King Ludwig II. This charming castle offers its own unique history and stunning views. Once you’ve explored Neuschwanstein Castle and walked down the hill, you can head over to Hohenschwangau Castle, another 20-minute walk.
How to Get from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle: Your Transportation Options
There are three main ways to get to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich in Germany: car, public transportation (train and bus combo), and tour.
By Car
If you have a car or rent one anyway, driving to Neuschwanstein offers the ultimate freedom and flexibility. Explore the Bavarian countryside at your own pace and stop at charming towns along the way.
While driving in winter can be scenic, be prepared for snow and potentially icy roads. Please make sure your car is equipped with winter tires, and check weather conditions before setting off.
Remember, driving directly to the castle isn’t possible. Parking is available in Schwangau, and from there, you can walk up, take a shuttle bus, or opt for a carriage ride to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Travel time by car: The drive of approximately 110km (68 miles) from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle typically takes around 1.5-2 hours, depending on traffic.
By Public Transport (Train and Bus Combo)
Another option is to take public transport from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle. This journey involves taking a regional train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Füssen, followed by a bus ride.
However, direct trains from Munich to Füssen depart only every two hours. Upon arrival in Füssen, a brief bus ride of about 10 minutes takes you to Schwangau, situated right below the castle.
The trip by public transport is a bit complicated due to schedule gaps but offers a budget-friendly option. We’d recommend considering alternatives like guided tours from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle if you don’t have a car.
Public transport from Munich to Schloss Neuschwanstein will cost you around 26-30€ (approximately £23-26 or US$29-33), depending on your chosen tickets and the number of people travelling.
Travel time by public transportation: The journey by train and bus takes approximately 3 hours.
Direct Coach Tours (Our Recommendation!)
For ultimate convenience, consider joining a direct coach full-day tour from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle. These tours typically include transportation and castle tickets (sometimes with skip-the-line access).
Some tours from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle include visits to nearby Bavarian castles like Hohenschwangau or Linderhof, adding even more value to your trip.
Prices for direct coach tours vary depending on the company and inclusions, but expect to pay around €50-100 (approximately £43-87 or US$55-111) per person.
We took the Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Tour from Munich during our first visit to Neuschwanstein Castle. It was well-organised and informative and provided ample time to explore the castle and its surroundings. The coach made three stops, including Schloss Linderhof (Ludwig II’s favourite palace), the small town of Oberammergau (famous for its woodcarving and intricately frescoed buildings), and Neuschwanstein Castle. Below are a few pictures of the tour:
Here are Our Recommended Coach Tours from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle:
Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Tour from Munich (Standard) – This is the standard tour we personally experienced and thoroughly enjoyed. It includes visits to Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, Hohenschwangau Castle, and Oberammergau.
Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Tour from Munich (Premium) – This is the premium version of the tour by the same company. You’ll have the chance to explore the same attractions, but with added luxury – travelling in a smaller group aboard a deluxe coach with a selection of snacks and beverages provided.
FAQ: Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter
Is Neuschwanstein Castle open in December?
Yes, Neuschwanstein Castle welcomes visitors year-round, except for the 1st of January and the 24th/25th/31st of December. During December, the castle is open from 9 am to 4 pm. However, remember that winter weather might close areas like the Marienbrücke bridge and some hiking trails.
Can I visit Neuschwanstein Castle on my own (without a guided tour)?
Currently, guided tours are the only way to experience the interior of Neuschwanstein Castle. You can purchase tickets online or at the ticket office at the foot of the hill. While solo exploration inside isn’t possible, the guided tours offer fascinating insights into the castle’s history and King Ludwig II’s vision.
How much time do I need at Neuschwanstein Castle?
The amount of time you need at Neuschwanstein Castle depends on your interests and how much you want to see. If you only want to see the castle exterior and take some photos, you can allow 1-2 hours. However, if you want to take a guided tour of the castle interior, you should allow at least 3 hours.
Why is Neuschwanstein Castle so famous?
Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is famous for its fairytale-like appearance and its association with King Ludwig II of Bavaria. The castle was built in the 19th century in the Romanesque Revival style and is perched on a hilltop overlooking the Hohenschwangau Valley. It has been featured in many films and television shows and is a popular tourist destination. Perhaps most famously, it served as the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland.
How long is the walk to Neuschwanstein Castle?
There are several different ways to get to Neuschwanstein Castle, and the length of the walk will vary depending on which route you take. The shortest walk is from Schwangau village, which takes about 35 minutes. However, you can also take a longer walk from the car park at the foot of the hill, which takes about 1 hour. There is also a shuttle bus and a horse-drawn carriage available from Schwangau village, which takes about 20 minutes.
Who lives in the Neuschwanstein Castle?
Neuschwanstein Castle is not a private residence, and no one lives there. It is a state-owned museum that is open to the public.
Does Neuschwanstein Castle have snow in winter?
Neuschwanstein Castle is a sight to behold in winter! While snow isn’t guaranteed, it’s certainly a possibility between October and April. December typically sees lighter snowfalls, often just a picturesque dusting that enhances the castle’s fairytale charm. January and February often bring heavier snowfalls. However, weather conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to check the forecast before your visit.
Wrap-Up: Is Neuschwanstein Castle Worth Visiting in Winter 2024?
So, is it worth going to Neuschwanstein Castle during the winter season?
Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle in winter offers snow-capped mountains, fewer crowds, and a winter wonderland feel. However, expect colder temperatures and potential closures of the best viewpoint (Marienbrücke) due to ice. For a better first-time experience, consider visiting in October or April instead.
Yet, for those acquainted with its beauty in other seasons, winter offers a fresh, enchanting perspective worth embracing. If you’ve already savoured the castle’s beauty in different seasons, venturing there in winter promises a whole new enchantment to discover and appreciate.
What’s your take on this? Have you ever visited Neuschwanstein Castle? Which season did you choose, and what’s your opinion – is Neuschwanstein Castle worth visiting in winter 2024?