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Castle · Füssen, Baviera
Schloss Hohenschwangau
Yellow neo-Gothic castle opposite Neuschwanstein, the summer residence of the Bavarian royal family, where Ludwig II spent part of his childhood.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Schloss Hohenschwangau
Schloss Hohenschwangau sits on a hill between the Alpsee and the Schwansee, opposite Neuschwanstein. On the site there had been a medieval fortress called Schwanstein. In 1832 the crown prince Maximilian, future King Maximilian II, bought the ruins and had them rebuilt in a neo-Gothic style between 1833 and 1837, to a design by Domenico Quaglio.
The royal family used the castle as a summer and hunting residence. Ludwig II grew up within these walls, decorated with paintings of medieval legends and knights, and the images of the castle help explain the taste he would bring to Neuschwanstein. After his father's death, Ludwig kept his apartments here.
The interior preserves the 19th-century decoration and furnishings, because the castle remained in the hands of the Wittelsbach family. The visit is guided only, at a reserved time, and tickets are sold through the same system as Neuschwanstein.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
The guided tour lasts around 45 minutes. Allow one-and-a-half hours including the climb and waiting time.
Best time
Combine it with Neuschwanstein on the same day, leaving at least two hours between the two visits. The climb is easier early in the morning.
How to get there
From the Hohenschwangau bus stop (lines 73 and 78, coming from Füssen station), the uphill walk takes about 20 minutes. There are also carriages, depending on weather and demand.
Tip
The ticketing system offers a combined ticket for both castles, with times already coordinated. The official recommendation is to be in Hohenschwangau at least one hour before this castle's scheduled time.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Schloss Hohenschwangau
Is Hohenschwangau worth visiting in addition to Neuschwanstein?
For those interested in Ludwig II's history, yes: it was his childhood home and the interior is furnished, unlike many rooms in Neuschwanstein which remained unfinished.
Can you visit both castles in the same day?
Yes. The ticketing system schedules both times with enough interval for the walk between them.
Is the visit guided?
Yes, only on guided tours with fixed times, like at Neuschwanstein.