Skip the Lines at Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau: Insider Secrets & Booking Guide

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most beautiful and majestic castles in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. Its breathtaking architecture and fairy-tale-like appearance make it a must-visit destination.

Located in Germany near the Austrian border, the castle offers stunning views, especially from designated viewpoints. Once you see it from a distance, you'll find it hard to look away.

If you're planning to visit, it's highly recommended to book skip-the-line tickets online. During peak seasons, on-site tickets are available but in very limited quantities and tend to sell out quickly. Booking in advance ensures a hassle-free experience and guarantees entry.

To visit Neuschwanstein Castle, you can travel by train or bus from Munich, Germany. Alternatively, you can drive, but using public transport is often more convenient and cost-effective.

Your journey will take you to Füssen, where you can purchase tickets on-site at Hohenschwangau Castle. However, I highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and limited availability.

From Hohenschwangau, you have several options to reach Neuschwanstein Castle: you can take a shuttle bus, ride a horse-drawn carriage, or hike up the scenic trail for a comfortable walk to the castle.

Now, let's take a look at how to book tickets Online for Neuschwanstein Castle.

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On the official website for booking tickets to Neuschwanstein Castle. This is a dedicated website for the castle, and booking directly through the official site ensures a smooth and reliable experience.

On this website, you will find complete details, including guided tour tickets and seasonal updates. For example, Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge), which offers one of the best views of Neuschwanstein Castle, is sometimes closed in winter due to weather conditions. If you plan to visit during winter, you can check for updates here. However, if you're visiting in summer, you can walk across the bridge for an absolutely breathtaking view of the castle.

Marienbrücke is one of the best viewpoints, but be prepared for crowds—it can get so busy that finding a spot to stand can be difficult!

Now, let’s head over to the official Hohenschwangau website and see how to book skip-the-line tickets online. The website offers language options, including German and English.

Scroll down on the site to check the available transport options to Neuschwanstein Castle. You can take a bus to the castle or to Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge), which is one of the best viewpoints. Horse-drawn carriages are also available. From Hohenschwangau, several viewpoints start, offering great views of the castle.

Marienbrücke provides a stunning panoramic view of Neuschwanstein Castle, but it can get extremely crowded. If you prefer a less crowded viewpoint, Jugend Viewpoint is another excellent option.

Now, let’s proceed to ticket booking. Click on the Online Ticket Shop link to purchase your entry pass. Keep in mind that visiting Neuschwanstein Castle is only allowed through guided tours—you cannot explore it freely. Your tour guide will meet you inside at your designated time and provide all the details about the castle’s history and architecture.

Photography and Videos are not allowed inside Neuschwanstein Castle or Hohenschwangau Castle. You can only take photos and videos from the outside.

When booking your visit, note that entry to both castles is only possible through a guided tour at a fixed time. It is recommended to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before your scheduled entry time to avoid any last-minute issues. Do not arrive just 15 minutes before your slot, as this may cause problems.

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If you plan to stay nearby, consider Hohenschwangau village for easy access. To reach Neuschwanstein Castle, you have three options:

Walk (a steep 40-minute hike)

Take a shuttle bus (for a small fee)

Ride a horse-drawn carriage (also for a fee)

Since transportation to the castle isn’t free, be prepared to pay a few euros for the bus or carriage if you prefer not to walk.

You can also reach the castle on foot.

When purchasing tickets, it is highly recommended to book in advance through the official online ticket shop. While on-site tickets are available, they are very limited and sold only for the same day. If you want to secure your visit in advance, you must book online.

Opening Hours

Neuschwanstein Castle:

Summer (April–October): 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Winter (November–March): 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Hohenschwangau Castle:

Summer: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Winter: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

If you're interested in exploring more, you can also visit the Museum of the Bavarian Kings. Tickets can be purchased individually or as a combined pass for all three attractions.

Here’s what you need to know about the ticketing process and timings:

Neuschwanstein Castle: Entry is only allowed at your selected time slot.

Museum of the Bavarian Kings: Open until 5 PM, and you can visit anytime during the day.

Contact Information: Save the phone number provided on the website in case you need assistance or have any doubts.

Booking Tickets Online

To book tickets, click on "Buy Ticket" or go directly to the online ticket shop. Scroll down to see different ticket options:

Neuschwanstein Castle: Select this option if you only want to visit Neuschwanstein.

Hohenschwangau Castle: Choose this option for a separate visit to Hohenschwangau.

Museum of the Bavarian Kings: Select this if you want to visit the museum.

Planning Your Visit

Most tourists visiting Germany prioritize Neuschwanstein Castle, while fewer visit the Museum of the Bavarian Kings.

If you plan to visit both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles in one day, keep at least a 2.5 hours gap between their time slots to allow for smooth transitions.

For a combined ticket to all three attractions, you’ll need:

King’s Ticket for Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles.

Prince’s Ticket if you also want to visit the Museum of the Bavarian Kings.

By following this approach, you can efficiently explore the castles and museum without any scheduling conflicts.

Let's first check the ticket prices for Neuschwanstein Castle.

Important Ticket Information:

No exchanges or refunds: Make sure to check all details before purchasing.

Tickets are required for all visitors: Even babies, toddlers, and children need their own tickets for the Royal Castles.

Eligibility for free/discounted tickets: If you qualify for a discount or a free ticket, you must show valid ID proof at the entrance.

Audio guides: Available only as part of audio-guided tours, but due to a limited number of devices, availability is not guaranteed.

Now, let's proceed to the Neuschwanstein Castle ticket selection. You can purchase up to 14 tickets at a time.

Note: During peak season, the website may slow down due to high demand.

Ticket Prices for Neuschwanstein Castle:

Adults: €23.50

Students/Senior Guests/Disabled Visitors: €22.50

Children (0-17 years): €2.50

Severely Disabled Adults: €2.50

First, select the number of people in your group. Then, enter the category (Adult, Child, Student, Senior, or Disabled).

If no other time slots options are available, you’ll have to go with the only available option and proceed to the next step.

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Selecting Your Audio Guide Language

You will need to select your preferred language for the audio guide. If you want English, select it. If you prefer another language, choose from the available options.

Booking Process (Act Quickly!)

The ticket price is €23.50.

Click Next to proceed.

You must complete the booking process within 10 minutes—so act fast!

Entering Your Details

After clicking Continue, fill in the required details:

First Name

Last Name

Street Address

Zip Code

City

Email Address

Payment Options

Once you've entered your details, scroll down and:

Tick the checkbox to agree to the terms.

Choose your payment method: Visa, American Express, MasterCard, JCB, or Diners Club.

Important Note About Your Ticket

Your ticket will be sent to your email.

The ticket contains a QR code that must be clearly visible on your mobile screen.

If the QR code is not readable, you won't be allowed entry.

Once everything is done, proceed with payment and confirmation.

If your mobile screen is undamaged and the QR code is clearly visible, you can use your mobile ticket for entry. Alternatively, you can print a hard copy, which will also be scanned at the entrance.

Booking is Simple!

The process is straightforward, and tickets can be purchased easily.

If you want to visit Hohenschwangau Castle, you will need to book a ticket separately. However, most tourists prefer Neuschwanstein Castle.

Checking Ticket Prices

Select preferred date.

The booking process remains the same.

Now, let's go back and explore more options.

Check Swan-Ticket Price for all 3 Spots

With the Swan Ticket, you can visit all three places:

NeuschwansteinCastle

HohenschwangauCastle

Museum of the Bavarian Kings

Now, add it to the cart and check the price.

Adult Ticket Cost: €60.50

Which one should you choose?

I recommend visiting Neuschwanstein Castle.

The other two can be skipped unless you’re particularly interested.

Planning Your Timings

Keep at least 2-hour gap between Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein Castle for smooth access.

If you're taking the 11 AM slot for Hohenschwangau, book Swan ticket at 1 PM—this gives you enough time.

Bavarian Kings Museum can visited anytime between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM.

It closes at 5 PM, so ensure you enter before 4:30 PM.

If you want to visit both Neuschwanstein Castle & Hohenschwangau Castle, purchase a King’s Ticket.

You can buy up to 13 tickets at a time.

The King's Ticket costs €46.

Since buying individual tickets for both castles is nearly the same price, it doesn’t make a huge difference.

Now, it’s up to you to decide whether to get the King’s Ticket or separate tickets.

Timings & Language Selection

The available time slots will be shown during booking.

Choose the language for your guided tour when booking.

If you're coming by car, there are ample parking spaces in Hohenschwangau Village:

Parking Locations

P1 & P4 – For cars and buses.

P2 – For cars, mobile homes, campervans, and motorbikes.

P3 – For cars and motorbikes.

Parking Fees:

Cars (P1, P2, P3, P4) – €12 for up to 6 hours.

Buses (P1, P4) – €35 per day.

Mobile Homes/Campers (P2) – €16 for up to 6 hours.

If you're traveling by car, you can easily park in the designated areas and pay the fee accordingly.

Reaching the Castle

On foot in 30 to 40 minutes.

By horse carriage (availability depends on the season).

By shuttle bus or horse carriage (availability depends on the season).

Pet Policy

Pets are strictly forbidden inside the castles and museums.

Even if carried in bags or transport cages, animals are not allowed inside.

Pets are also not permitted on means of transport to the castle.

Scenic View from the Marienbrücke, Mary's Bridge

While exploring the area, make sure to visit Marienbrücke, which offers a stunning view of the castle.

You can stand on Marienbrücke and take beautiful photos, as it offers a fantastic view of the castle.

Another great viewpoint is Viewpoint "Jugend", from where you can also see the castle. This spot provides an amazing panoramic view.

Other attractions in the area include:

Alpsee Lake Boat House – A scenic place worth visiting.

Alpseebad in Hohenschwangau

Pöllat gorge below Neuschwanstein

Schwangau Village – A charming village you can explore.

Füssen Town – This town has another castle and is home to many hotels and guesthouses.

If you're planning to stay overnight, there are several accommodation options in Füssen Town, including:

Hotel Müller

Villa Ludwig

And Many other hotels and guesthouses

Depending on your itinerary, you can stay for one or two nights to fully explore the area.

There are restaurants inside Neuschwanstein Castle, including a café on the second floor called Café Bistro, where you can enjoy some refreshments after your guided tour.

On the same floor, a free multi-vision show about King Ludwig II and his famous castles is available.

Just outside the gates of Neuschwanstein Castle, you’ll also find restaurant options if you prefer dining outside the castle.

Important Ticket Information:

During the peak season, tickets sell out quickly, so it’s best to book online in advance to get skip-the-line tickets.

If you wait to buy tickets on-site, long queues and limited availability might prevent you from getting entry.

Print a hard copy of your ticket instead of relying on your mobile phone, as a QR code that doesn’t scan properly may result in denied entry.

Reaching the Castle on Time:

Arrive at the castle 1.5 to 2 hours early to allow enough time for the journey.

If you arrive late, you won’t be allowed inside, so be mindful when selecting your time slots.

Missing your time slot means losing your ticket, as rescheduling is not guaranteed.

Planning ahead will help you avoid hassles and enjoy your visit smoothly.

If you have any questions or doubts, feel free to leave a comment, and I’ll respond as soon as possible.

Bavarian Castles

Discover insider tips to skip lines at Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau for a stress-free visit to these iconic landmarks.

Location

Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria

Hours

9 AM - 5 PM

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