‌

Neuschwanstein Castle’s opening hours | Best time to visit, duration, & more

Today

Open 09:00–18:00

Last Admission

16:00

Best time to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle

Weekday vs Weekend

#
  • Weekdays are comparatively less crowded, giving you more time to explore the Neuschwanstein Castle and the nearby Linderhof Castle.
  • If you are planning a weekend visit, catch an early morning bus, or choose tours that begin early in the day to comfortably explore the castle premises. Since most locals take Fridays off to spend a weekend getaway around Neuschwanstein Castle, expect longer wait times at restaurants.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant
Crowded
Very Crowded
Closed

Peak season vs low season

#
  • Shoulder season (April to May): April and May are the best months to visit the castle. The weather is cooler than the summer months, ideal for a hike around the castle.
  • Peak season (June to October): These months are the busiest in the year. Most school and college students visit around this time after their semesters, so you may find a large number of group tours inside the castle. Afternoons tend to be quieter during these months.
  • Low season (November to March): Many areas in and around Neuschwanstein Castle experience snowfall in the winter months. While the snow makes for stunning visuals of the castle, it is difficult to hike up the hill and explore the surroundings during these months.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season
Moderate Season
Peak Season

How long do you need to tour Neuschwanstein Castle?

To make the most of your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, we recommend you spend at least 5 to 6 hours exploring the castle premises. Given the extensive range of rooms and intricate artifacts housed inside the castle, you may spend a full day exploring the castle.

The Neuschwanstein Castle is situated on top of a hill overlooking the lush Hohenschwangau Valley in the Bavarian Alps. If you love nature and are an outdoor adventure enthusiast, you may consider spending more time exploring the castle grounds and going hiking along the nearby trails.

Most Neuschwanstein Castle guided tours include comfortable, air-conditioned transfers and provide access to the nearby Linderhof Castle, another extravagant residence commissioned by King Ludwig II. Including transfers, you need around 10 hours to explore both the castles.

​Plan your visit to Neuschwanstein Castle

Tips to note when visiting the Neuschwanstein Castle

  • Plan a day trip: The Neuschwanstein Castle is flanked by the Hohenschwangau Castle, a few miles away. The Linderhof Castle, another fairytale-like castle commissioned by King Ludwig II is situated around a 2-hour drive away. Keep a few hours on hand and visit the surrounding castles when touring Neuschwanstein. 
  • Arrive early: The Neuschwanstein Castle is spread across a large area on top of a hill. You need at least 5 to 6 hours to tour the castle. Make sure to reach early in the morning to experience some quiet moments within the castle before the morning rush. 
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You have to walk up a steep and uneven hill to reach the castle. Even if you choose a horse-drawn carriage, you must walk a short distance to enter the premises. There are several rooms inside the castle which you must explore. Wear your most comfortable and closed shoes when touring Neuschwanstein Castle. 
  • Respect photography policies: You are not allowed to click pictures of the interiors of the Neuschwanstein Castle. Please be mindful of these restrictions. 
  • Visit Marienbrucke: While you are not allowed to photograph the interiors, make sure to bring a camera to click stunning visuals of the Neuschwanstein Castle from a nearby bridge, called Marienbrucke. 
  • Avoid large bags: If you are carrying large backpacks or suitcases, drop them off at the castle’s cloakroom before beginning your tour.

​Best ways to reach the Neuschwanstein Castle

Frequently asked questions about Neuschwanstein Castle’s opening hours

The Neuschwanstein Castle is open from 9 am to 6 pm between 23rd March and 15th October. The castle is open between 10 am and 4 pm from 16th October to 22nd March.

More reads

History of Neuschwanstein Castle

Book Now

Neuschwanstein tours from Munich

Book Now

Visit Marienbrucke

Book Now