Learn Who Built the Castle and When
King Ludwig II of Bavaria had the castle built for his royal residence. Construction began in 1869 and continued for 17 years, without being completed. When Ludwig II died in 1886, only 14 rooms within the castle were completed. The King's suite (bedroom) alone took 10 years to finish. A Singers' Hall was built as a venue for performances by the King's friend and muse, the great composer and conductor Richard Wagner. Some say that the castle was an extravagant and massive temple to Wagner.
Understand Why It is Considered the Most Beautiful
Neuschwanstein is Germany's best-loved and most frequently visited and photographed castle. Each year, 1.3 million people tour the property.
The location itself, in the Alps near Pöllat Gorge, is one of the most breathtaking sites you could ever imagine. A visit to the castle is not complete without walking across Marienbruecke (Mary's Bridge), which sits high above the Pöllat Gorge and offers a spectacular view of the castle.
Neuschwanstein was the inspiration for Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Park.
Take the In-Person Tour of Neuschwanstein
The castle is located in the village of Hohenschwangau. Arriving by train, bus or car, you can get tickets for the 35-minute guided tour and then proceed to the castle in one of three ways: a 30-minute walk uphill, a horse-drawn carriage and 5 minute walk, or by bus.
Admission to the castle is 9 euros per person. There is no cost to see the outside of the castle or the Marienbruecke bridge; only to tour the interior. No photographs can be taken inside and this is strictly enforced.
Enjoy a Video Tour of Neuschwanstein at Home
Several DVDs are available to 'tour' the castle from the comfort of your home (I found four selectons). Using Google or Bing, search on DVD King Ludwig Castle to see what is available. Be sure to purchase an English language version of the DVD.
