Schloss Neuschwanstein

A castle built by the Bavarian king Ludwig II in the second half of the 19th century, on a rock above the village of Hohenschwangau. The site was previously occupied by Schwangau Fortress, recorded as far back as the 12th century; the names of the two castles were not swapped until the 19th century. Ludwig grew up in Hohenschwangau Castle, in the valley below. Visitors on a guided tour see lavishly decorated chambers, while the surrounding area offers views of Alpine peaks and lakes. The castle served as the inspiration for the castle in Disney animated films and is one of the most visited in Europe. Tickets can be purchased through the official online service or at the ticket centre in Hohenschwangau, from where the walk up to the castle takes around forty minutes.