Name: Hohenschwangau Castle
Item: Hohenschwangau Castle
Author: RealGermanExperience

Experience a journey through time and dive into the rich history of Bavaria with a visit to Hohenschwangau Castle, an enchanting relic of the past that proudly stands in the heart of Germany. This breathtaking castle is deeply intertwined with the history of the Bavarian royal family and offers an unparalleled insight into the life and times of the famous King Ludwig II.

Originally known as Schwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau traces its origins back to the 12th century, with its first mention in historical documents. Over the centuries, it was owned by the Knights of Schwangau before changing hands multiple times. Despite enduring significant damages during various wars, the castle’s story took a turn in 1832 when it was purchased by the future King Maximilian II. He embarked on a mission to restore the castle to its former glory, redesigning it in a neo-Gothic style that remains today.

Hohenschwangau Castle holds a special place in the life of King Ludwig II, who not only spent his childhood here but also used the castle as his summer home until his death in 1886. It was also used as a hunting residence by the Bavarian royal family, making it a vibrant hub of royal activities.

Today, Hohenschwangau Castle is owned by the Wittelsbacher Ausgleichfonds. It opens its doors to visitors year-round, with guided tours offering in-depth insights into its history, architecture, and royal inhabitants. Its opening times vary by season, with extended hours from April 1st to October 15th. Please note the castle is closed on December 24th, 25th, December 31st, and January 1st.

Tickets to this majestic castle can be purchased at the official online ticket store or at the Ticket Center in Hohenschwangau. The Museum of the Bavarian Kings nearby is also a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Keep in mind that there is a limited number of tickets available each day, so early arrival is recommended during peak seasons.

The castle can be reached on foot within a 15-20 minute walk from the village, or for a more traditional experience, a horse-drawn carriage can ferry you to the castle grounds. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the castle, but its majestic exterior can be captured from various viewpoints in the village. For a more distant shot, the viewpoint “Jugend” offers a splendid view.

While Hohenschwangau Castle offers a dive into the royal history of Bavaria, its proximity to Neuschwanstein Castle, another beautiful landmark, provides a complete and unique historical experience. Both castles are conveniently accessible, offering opportunities for fantastic photographs and the chance to breathe in the atmosphere of a bygone era.

Journey to Hohenschwangau Castle and step into the pages of history. Explore the life of King Ludwig II, experience the grandeur of Bavarian royalty, and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this unique location. Your trip to Germany won’t be complete without visiting this enchanting historical landmark.

Opening hours – ticket sales times (Ticket Center):

Summer opening time:

April 1st to October 15th
Guided tours daily from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.

Winter opening time:

October 16th to March 31st
Guided tours daily from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

• By phone you can reach our reservation office :

in the summer from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and
in the winter from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm.

Guided tours of Hohenschwangau Castle

The tour is only possible in the context of a guided tour. The castle tour takes about 30 minutes.

Castle tours take place daily between
10:00 am – 4:00 pm (winter opening time) and
9:00 am – 6:00 pm (summer opening time)
with limited capacity .

The Castle is closed on 24th December and 1st January.

The following languages are offered:

• German, English (with a guide)

• Audioguide devices: Italian, Spanish, French, Russian, Czech, Polish, Hungarian, Dutch, Japanese, Portuguese and Chinese.

Unfortunately there is no lift at Hohenschwangau Castle. During the tour a total of 90 steps must be covered to the second floor.

Ticket prices:

• Adults – € 15,00

• Children under 18 accompanied by parents – free
(This does not apply to student groups)

• Reduced ticket (senior citizens from 65 years old, students, handicapped people, hotel guest card, Königscard – on showing an appropriate identity document) – € 14,00
plus advance booking fee / handling fee (only for online purchase): 2,50 €

• Groups of 15 paying adults – € 14,00
(This discount can only be granted
if all cards are closed
and paid by one person)

• Free tickets for companions of disabled people, ICOM, Multi-Day-Tickets, yearly tickets, combined ticket “Königsschlösser” – on showing an appropriate identity document – free

Pupils – free

Pupil groups from general education schools – free
Booking handling fee: 1,50 €
⇒ Pupil group tours only on written request: [email protected]

Combination tickets:

The following combination tickets are available:

• King’s Ticket (Hohenschwangau Castle / Neuschwanstein Castle)

• Wittelsbach-Ticket (Hohenschwangau Castle / Museum of the Bavarian Kings)

• Schwanen-Ticket (Castles Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein / Museum of the Bavarian Kings)

The tickets for Schloss Hohenschwangau and the combination ticket are only available at the Ticket Center and only on the day of your visit to Hohenschwangau.

The Castle can be reached by horse-drawn carriage or on foot.

• Horse carriage to Hohenschwangau castle:

Carriage-stop valley: in front of the Ticket Center

Carriage-stop castle: directly at the Hohenschwangau castle

Price:

Uphill: € 4,50 Downhill: € 2,00

You pay directly to the horse carriage driver.

Duration of the ride: approx. 10 minutes.

Important note: During the winter opening hours of the castle, there is no carriage transfer to Hohenschwangau castle.

• Walk to Hohenschwangau castle:

You can also reach Hohenschwangau Castle on foot. The respective paths are signposted.

Approximate walking time uphill from the Ticket Center to Hohenschwangau Castle: 20 minutes.

Parking in Hohenschwangau

The driveway with your own car to Neuschwanstein Castle or Hohenschwangau Castle is prohibited .

Parking next to the ticket center is not possible . We ask you to switch to the surrounding public parking.

There are four numbered parking spaces (P1, P2, P3 and P4) at your disposal:

P1 = Parking at the “apollo duty free”

P2, P3 = next to Restaurant Kaffee Kainz

P4 = Alpseeparkplatz

Parking prohibited from 20:00 to 08:00.

Parking fees:
• car € 10,00 Adjustment fee per day
• bus € 30,00 Adjustment fee per day
• motorhome € 13 Adjustment fee per day
• Motorcycle € 3 Adjustment fee per day

Hohenschwangau Castle

Real German Experience

Things to see and do in Germany Travel Guide

Hohenschwangau Castle

Hohenschwangau Castle

Claim "Hohenschwangau Castle"

Login