Accessibility in Neuschwanstein Castle

Mobility access and limitations

The arch at the entrance of Neuschwanstein Castle

While the castle sits high on a hill and comes with a few challenges, support options are available to make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know—from booking tickets and getting to the castle to navigating inside it safely.

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.

Getting to Neuschwanstein Castle

You cannot drive directly to the castle. Even with a disabled parking permit, driving directly to the castle is not allowed.

But there are three transport options available, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs:

1. Horse-Drawn Carriage

Due to limited access, the horse-drawn carriages cannot take you all the way to the castle.

They stop at a designated area below the castle, from where it’s an uphill walk for about 10–15 minutes to the entrance. The final stretch is quite steep, so be prepared for a bit of a climb.

Tickets for the carriage ride can be purchased directly from the driver, and it departs from Hotel Müller.

Wheelchair users with foldable chairs can use this option. Although no ramps are available, the driver can assist.

2. Shuttle Bus

Departs from P4, located near the Alpsee lake. The Low-floor buses are suitable for easier boarding.

The Shuttle drops you at the “Jugend” stop above the castle. The stop is near Mary’s Bridge.

Then you will walk 500 meters downhill on a paved path. Note that this is not recommended for wheelchairs or strollers.

Box: Disabled parking spaces (paid) are available at the P2 car park in Hohenschwangau.

Accessibility Inside the Castle

When you reach the castle, the staff (host/greeter) will meet you at the visitor exit and assist you in joining your tour group. After the tour, they will escort you back safely.

Here’s what to expect inside:

Lift Access

A lift is available for wheelchair users and others with reduced mobility. Note that the elevator in Neuschwanstein Castle is not intended for general use by all visitors.

The elevator is available for one disabled person or one person in a wheelchair (+1 companion) per hour. So you must register in advance due to limited availability.

Lift size: Door width – 0.85m | Depth – 1.30m. Make sure your wheelchair fits these dimensions.

Accessible Toilets

Barrier-free toilets are available on level 2 of the Castle, near the Café-Bistro.

No Rentals On-Site

Wheelchairs and walkers are not available for hire at the castle.

For rentals, contact local providers in Füssen, such as:

In Case of Emergency

The lift cannot be used if there’s a fire alarm or other emergency.

The castle has two evacuation chairs to help mobility-impaired visitors exit via the marble stairs and tunnel.

A trained staff member will assist during the evacuation.

Final Tips for an Accessible Visit

  • Book early and mention your mobility needs.
  • Arrive at least one hour early at the ticket center for ticket pickup.
  • Choose the transport method that fits your abilities.
  • Bring your own mobility aid if needed, as there are no rentals at the castle.

Summary

While Neuschwanstein Castle isn’t fully barrier-free, it does offer a number of services to help all visitors enjoy their visit.

With the right planning, you can take in the fairy-tale charm, explore the castle interiors, and soak in the views comfortably and confidently.

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Researched & Written by
Mary Bency thrives on the beauty of starry skies, the rhythm of poetry, and the thrill of cultural exploration. As a traveler with a deep curiosity for history and hidden gems, she immerses herself in the cultures and traditions of every place she visits. She is passionate about astronomy and poetry. Inspired by the destinations she explores, Mary writes, capturing their essence in verse. Mary's natural curiosity and knack for connecting with people allow her to infuse her writing with a dynamic and relatable perspective, engaging her stories. Favorite travel movie: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. Next destination: Chefchaouen, Morocco.

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