Want to visit Neuschwanstein? Want to know how to get there? So no problem I’m here to guide you. If you are the one who loves to visit fairy tales, you are in the perfect place.
This castle, also known as “Schloss Neuschwanstein, ” is one of Germany’s most popular and beautiful locations. Also, it matches its magical popularity. In this article, I will share my experience with helpful tips so you will enjoy my experience.
First Impressions of Neuschwanstein Castle
My first impression when I saw this Castle was that I was in my dreams, but it wouldn’t happen in real life. It was everything I had imagined in my thoughts. The castle is located on a high hill, covered with big forests.
It’s like reading a book and imagining myself. As I became closer, I realized how big it was. Its white walls and tall towers look very beautiful. Even though it was built many decades ago in the 19th century, it has stayed the same, as if time had stopped.
How to Get to Neuschwanstein
The way to Neuschwanstein Castle is uncomplicated but must be carefully planned. Since I was in Munich, I rode the train to Füssen, the closest town. Next, I hopped on a short bus to the base where Hohenschwangau is.
In Hohenschwangau, you can choose between climbing to the castle, riding in a horse carriage, or using the shuttle bus. I opted to walk, which took me 30 to 40 minutes.
Taking the walk was amazing as I passed through areas with picturesque views of the mountains and lakes. Nevertheless, walking is tough, so the bus or carrier is the more appropriate option for those who prefer to avoid climbing.
A Little History of Neuschwanstein
One of the most impressive things about Neuschwanstein is undoubtedly its history. King Ludwig II of Bavaria initiated the formation of the structure in 1869. He designed it to be a personal retreat, but it was never completely made before he died in 1886. Ludwig II was notorious for being out of the norm, and this was the architecture he loved, the grand and romantic.
Unlike the other fortresses built for defensive purposes, it was constructed to memorialize the Middle Ages and Ludwig’s gothic adoration for Richard Wagner. Many of which inside are inspired by Wagner’s operas.
Touring the Castle
I arrived at the castle by the time I headed to where the tour began. You must register for a guided tour to see the castle, as you cannot roam freely. The guide gave me some good information and told me some fun stories about the castle.
We were indoors and looked as majestic as the outer observed. The Throne Room was best decorated with very detailed paintings, huge chandeliers, and a mosaic floor made of tiny tiles. King Ludwig II created a perfect look for the room, although no throne existed.
Also of interest was the singer hall, a big room decorated with murals portraying episodes of German mythology. This room was built specifically for concerts, and I could almost hear the songs that filled it during Ludwig’s time.
I noticed that the rooms combined gothic and modern styles, with little advancements such as running water and even a telephone, which was incredible for a castle built in the late 1800s.
The Views Around Castle
Although the inner part of the structure was as beautiful as expected, my favorite part was looking through the windows to spy on the fantastic scene beneath the castle.
The castle is in the middle of the amazing Bavarian Alps, and I could catch sight of the superb water body known as Alpsee Lake, which sparkles below. It was a lovely time to be in the company of that magnificent view.
Also, I walked to Marienbrücke, the bridge just behind the castle. From this place, one can have a perfect view of Neuschwanstein with all the splendid mountains in the background.
It is unforgettable whenever you walk alongside it, you remember how great it would have been to take many shots of this wonderful place to have it forever.
Practical Tips for Visiting Neuschwanstein
For everyone considering visiting castle, the following suggestions are beneficial.
At the very beginning, tickets may be hard to get, especially in the summer months, so it is recommended that you book them online in advance.
The guided tour takes around thirty minutes, and you can visit the castle grounds alone.
Do take walking shoes with you. Most of the time, you will be on foot if you visit the castle or the environs.
The weather is constantly changing in Bavaria. Therefore, a light jacket is necessary because the weather might turn out to be relatively warm early in the morning, but it could be changeable later.
Another place you must visit in my opinion is after Neuschwanstein is the nearby village of Hohenschwangau.
There is one another castle known as Hohenschwangau Castle, which was King Ludwig’s childhood home when he lived with his parents.
Of course, maybe it’s not as popular as Neuschwanstein, but it’s still an interesting castle to visit if you have a few left hours.
The Legacy of Neuschwanstein
During my one-day tour of this castle, it was clear that this structure was a big cornerstone of Germany’s and Bavaria’s legends. It also inspired Walt Disney for his Sleeping Beauty’s Castle! However, what’s more magical at castle might be its incredible design, the sight of nature, and the story behind it.
Nowadays, this Castle is one of the most visited attractions worldwide, with over one million people going there to see it every year. Despite the crowd, it still seems to be the place to step back into history and enjoy a fairy tale that perhaps King Ludwig II would have loved, who knows?
Conclusion
On my tour of the Neuschwanstein Castle, I found it very interesting and captivating, as other visitors said. Whether history, architecture or simply enjoying nature are one’s interests, this place is absolutely fun.
The captivating blend of the gorgeously designed castle on the one hand and the beauty of nature on the other makes it an unforgettable trip. If you ever plan to visit the beautiful country of Germany, I strongly advise you to visit the Castle.
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