Neuschwanstein Castle in all 4 seasons

Step into a real-life fairy tale at Neuschwanstein Castle, nestled high in the stunning Bavarian Alps near Schwangau and Füssen, Germany.

Commissioned by King Ludwig II, this romantic 19th-century palace inspired Disney’s iconic castles, making it one of the most visited landmarks in the world.

Each season brings a unique charm to the castle and its breathtaking surroundings, offering visitors a different magical experience year-round.

Let’s dive into the highlights of each season to help you plan your visit to the castle.

The Neuschwanstein entry ticket is the cheapest way to see the castle, which attracts a million visitors annually. The full-day trip from Munich includes castle entry and transport, while the Neuschwanstein & Linderhof tour offers a guided experience of both fairytale castles.

Spring Awakening

Visiting Neuschwanstein in spring, especially in March or April, means fewer crowds and refreshing weather.

The castle’s white towers beautifully contrast with the vibrant green landscape as nature wakes up all around.

Visiting during May and June, part of the shoulder season, also offers pleasant temperatures and a quieter atmosphere, making it ideal for peaceful exploration and stunning photography.

What else could be a better reason or season to visit Neuschwanstein than in spring?

Summer Splendor

Summer is the most popular time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, thanks to warm weather and extended daylight hours.

But be prepared for large crowds, especially in July and August when up to 6,000 visitors arrive daily.

To avoid long lines, book your tickets online to get the perfect time slots.

Visit either very early in the morning or after 3 pm, when crowds start to thin.

Summer also opens the door to lake activities on nearby Alpsee, Schwansee, Forggensee, and Bannwaldsee, with options for swimming, sailing, and boat tours on Lake Forggensee.

If swimming in the Alpine lake is on your bucket list, summer is the perfect season for visiting the castle.

Autumn Glow

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit if you want to experience the castle surrounded by stunning fall colors.

The Bavarian Alps light up with golden and red hues, creating a perfect backdrop for your visit.

The weather is mild, skies are often clear, and the heavy summer crowds have mostly left, making it an ideal time for hiking and cycling in the Schwangau region.

Winter Wonderland

Winter turns Neuschwanstein into a true snowy fairy tale, perfect for quiet strolls and cozy sleigh rides.

However, some challenges come with this dreamy season — Mary’s Bridge, the famous viewpoint, is usually closed due to snow and ice.

Also, note that shuttle buses may not run in harsh weather, meaning a walk or horse-drawn carriage ride is necessary.

The castle closes on December 24, 25, 31, and January 1. Despite this, winter offers peaceful landscapes and cross-country skiing trails around Schwangau.

Planning Your Visit

No matter when you visit, planning ahead is what makes your visit perfect and hassle-free.

You can reach Neuschwanstein Castle by car, train, or bus from Munich or nearby towns like Garmisch or Innsbruck.

Once in Hohenschwangau, choose your way up to the castle—walk the steep hill, take a shuttle bus, or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride.

Inside, explore remarkable rooms such as the Singer’s Hall and the Throne Room, and don’t forget to capture photos of the stunning castle exterior and surrounding natural beauty.

Enjoy your unforgettable visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, a magical experience no matter the season!