The Enchanting Hohenschwangau Castle
Discover the enchanting Hohenschwangau Castle, a fairy-tale fortress steeped in history amidst the breathtaking Bavarian Alps.
Hohenschwangau Castle, with its picturesque setting against the backdrop of the Bavarian Alps, stands as a testament to the romantic vision of King Maximilian II of Bavaria. Built in the 19th century, this castle served as the childhood home of King Ludwig II, who later constructed the famous Neuschwanstein Castle nearby. Visitors to Hohenschwangau are often captivated by its stunning architecture, adorned with intricate frescoes and beautiful gardens that reflect the artistic sensibilities of the time. The castle offers a range of guided tours, providing insights into its rich history and the life of the Bavarian royal family. As you explore the castle, take time to admire the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including the serene Alpsee Lake and the rugged peaks of the Alps. The journey to the castle itself is part of the experience; whether you choose to hike the scenic trails or take a horse-drawn carriage, the approach is sure to leave a lasting impression. Be sure to visit the nearby village of Hohenschwangau, where charming shops and local eateries offer a taste of Bavarian culture. Ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and photography lovers, Hohenschwangau Castle is a highlight of any trip to southern Germany, blending history with natural beauty in a truly enchanting setting.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the surrounding walking paths and enjoy the beautiful nature.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views from the castle are stunning, especially at sunset.
- Consider combining your visit with Neuschwanstein Castle for a full day of royal exploration.
A brief summary to Hohenschwangau Castle
- Alpseestraße 30, Schwangau, Hohenschwangau, 87645, DE
- +498362930830
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Hohenschwangau Castle, start by navigating to the A7 highway. Depending on your starting point in the Alps, you will likely want to head towards Füssen. From Füssen, follow the signs towards Schwangau. Once you reach Schwangau, look for Alpseestraße, where Hohenschwangau Castle is located. There is a parking lot available near the castle for visitors, but be aware that there is a parking fee of approximately €6 for the day. The GPS coordinates for the castle are 47.5556743 latitude and 10.7363804 longitude.
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Public Transportation
To reach Hohenschwangau Castle using public transportation, take a train to Füssen. From Füssen train station, you can catch bus line 73 or 78 (check the local schedule for exact times) which will take you directly to the Hohenschwangau stop. The bus fare is approximately €2.50 one way. Once you disembark at Hohenschwangau, you will have a short walk to the castle entrance. The castle is located at Alpseestraße 30, 87645 Schwangau.
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Walking
If you're already in Schwangau or at the lake near Hohenschwangau, you can walk to the castle. From the village center, head towards Alpseestraße. Follow the signs to Hohenschwangau Castle. The walk is approximately 20 minutes uphill, so comfortable walking shoes are advised. Enjoy the scenic views as you approach the castle.
Attractions Nearby to Hohenschwangau Castle
- Jägerhaus
- Museum of the Bavarian Kings
- Ruhebänke
- Pindarplatz
- Wasserfall unterm Schloss
- Waterfall near Marienbrücke
- Aussichtspunkt zum Schloss Neuschwanstein
- Marienbrücke
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- Alpsee bei Schwangau
- Aussichtspunkt Neuschwanstein
- Pöllat Gorge Schwangau
- Alpsee
- Schloss Bullachberg
- Schwansee