Hohenschwangau Castle is located near Lake Alpsee and opposite Neuschwanstein.

It is where King Ludwig II of Bavaria spent much of his childhood. The original castle dates back to the Middle Ages, but it was rebuilt in the 19th century by Ludwig II's father, Maximilian II of Bavaria, in a romantic neo-Gothic style.

Maximilian II transformed the old fortress into an elegant and comfortable summer palace, reflecting the romantic and artistic tastes of the royal family. For Ludwig II, Hohenschwangau was a safe and inspiring refuge, surrounded by the Alpine landscapes that would later influence the construction of Neuschwanstein.

Each room is richly decorated with murals depicting scenes from Germanic history and legends, medieval battles, Bavarian myths, and episodes of chivalry.

Ludwig II's bedroom retains historical furniture from the period and paintings that reflect his fascination with the world of fairy tales.

Spaces dedicated to family and study, decorated with wooden details and works of art that show the royal family's interest in literature and music.

The castle combines towers, battlements, and colorful facades, with a welcoming touch and residential functionality, with the romantic and cultural aesthetics of Bavaria, providing a more intimate experience compared to the grandeur and theatrical air of Neuschwanstein.

The visit is conducted by a guide, offering a detailed narrative of the history of the Wittelsbach family, the life of Ludwig II, and the legends depicted in the murals.

The castle has well-maintained gardens, and its location offers magnificent views of Lake Alpsee, the mountains, and Neuschwanstein.

Unlike Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau conveys a more welcoming and familiar atmosphere, allowing visitors to imagine what daily life was like for Bavarian royalty.

Photography is permitted on the exterior and in the gardens, but photos of the interior are generally prohibited.

Spring and summer offer trails around the lake and pleasant weather for exploring the region.

Tickets

It is highly recommended to buy online in advance to avoid long queues.

Buying on-site, adult tickets cost €23.50, children aged 7 to 17 cost €12.00, and children under 7 are free; however, tickets are only sold for the day and are very limited, so arrive early to secure your place.

The best option is to buy online at this website, but there is a €2.50 fee, even for free tickets.

It is also possible to buy combined tickets with Neuschwanstein, the so-called Kings-Ticket.