Is it really possible to explore one of Germany’s most iconic castles without buying a ticket or joining a guided tour?
When planning our visit to Neuschwanstein Castle with our friends from Mexico and Brazil, they rightly asked: What can we actually see without a ticket?
Good news: Yes, you can see Neuschwanstein Castle without a ticket! While the interior requires a guided paid tour, the exterior views are absolutely free, and some of the best panoramas don’t cost a cent.
Having visited many castles in Germany, we can confidently say that Neuschwanstein’s interior is indeed very special – but here’s the catch: photography is not allowed inside. So, while you won’t find interior photos in this post, we’ll share everything you can explore for free and whether a ticket is truly worth it.
👉 In this guide, we’ll explain what you can do without a ticket, what your last-minute options are, and how to make the most of your visit even if the castle is sold out.
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Can You Visit Neuschwanstein Castle Without a Ticket?
Yes, you can see Neuschwanstein castle without a ticket – but only the exterior!
If you want to see the interior of Neuschwanstein, you must have a ticket and join a guided tour. Tickets are only available through the official ticket office or select resellers.
These guided tours are conducted in English and German and provide valuable insights into the history and architecture of the castle. There are also audio-guides available in other languages.
Without a ticket, you cannot enter the castle itself BUT you can walk around the castle grounds for free.
However, there’s still plenty to see if you don’t have a ticket!
Here’s what you can still do without a ticket:
✅ Walk up to the castle gates and admire the architecture up close.
✅ Enjoy the scenic hiking trails with stunning views of the castle.
✅ Take postcard-perfect photos from Marienbrücke and other viewpoints.
Last-Minute Options If Tickets Are Sold Out
If you’re determined to see the interior but missed out on tickets, here are some alternative ways to get in:
1. Check for Cancellations at the Ticket Center
🎟️ Where: Hohenschwangau Ticket Center
⏳ Best Time: Morning when new ticket releases sometimes happen.
Sometimes, tour groups cancel, and a few last-minute tickets become available. It’s a long shot, but worth checking!
2. Join a Guided Tour with Ticket Included
Tip: See the interior with a guided tour
We recommend to book your tickets early as these tours are likely to sell out!
If official tickets are sold out, some tour companies buy bulk tickets and still have availability. These tours usually cost more, but guarantee entry.
Here are some options:
- Viator* or GetYourGuide – Tours often include skip-the-line access
- Local Tour Companies – Some offer day trips from Munich with castle entry*
💡 Pro Tip: These tours sell out too, so book as soon as possible!
3. Visit Hohenschwangau Castle Instead
If you can’t get into Neuschwanstein, consider visiting Hohenschwangau Castle, the childhood home of King Ludwig II. It’s right next door, less crowded, and offers beautiful lake views.
Join a Guided tour from Munich
You want to take a Day Trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein? This Tour also includes a stop at the Linderhof Castle.
3 Best Views of Neuschwanstein Without a Ticket
1. Hike to the Marienbrücke Bridge to get the best view (free!)
📍 Distance: 45-minute uphill walk from the Neuschwanstein castle
Cost: Free to hike and access the bridge (shuttle bus & carriage available)
Why Go: This is the classic postcard view of Neuschwanstein!
⚠️ Heads-Up: Can be crowded—visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer tourists.
If you want the best photo of Neuschwanstein Castle, Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge) is the place to be! Suspended high above Pöllatschlucht Gorge, this historic bridge offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the castle perched on its hilltop.
The hike to the bridge is free, as is access to the bridge itself (no ticket required). However, keep in mind that the bridge has a capacity limit of 164 people, and there’s a display board showing the number of people on the bridge at any time.
It’s a approx. 45-minute walk (1 km) from Neuschwanstein Castle, but you can also choose to ride a shuttle bus (3.50 Euro up, 2 Euro down), or take a horse-drawn carriage (8 Euro) for a more romantic experience. Please be aware that the walk is steep and uphill.
Despite being crowded during peak seasons, the view from the bridge is absolutely mesmerizing and worth the effort. In fact, on clear days around midday, the sun is usually behind you, creating perfect lighting for photos.
Is Marienbrücke Always Open?
Although Marienbrücke is generally accessible, weather conditions such as rain or strong winds might limit access. It’s always good to check before heading out. The wooden planks of the bridge make it sway slightly underfoot, so being free of vertigo is an advantage if you want to cross and fully enjoy the breathtaking views into the deep gorge and of Schloss Neuschwanstein.
Lastly, if you decide to take the shuttle bus, it runs once an hour, and you can hike down in about 20 minutes or catch the bus again.
our TIP
Visit early in the morning or later in the evening! It can take up to 30 – 40 minutes to get a photo if you visit during peak hours. In the evening, most tourist buses have already left, and you can enjoy the bridge without long waits. Plus, the lighting at that time is ideal for photography!
2. Tegelberg Cable Car – The Panoramic View
- 📍 Distance: 10-minute drive + cable car ride
- Why Go: Offers breathtaking aerial views of Neuschwanstein and the Alps.
- 💰 Cost: €30 round trip /adults
3. Alpsee Lake – The Reflection Shot
- 📍 Distance: 15-minute walk from Hohenschwangau
- Why Go: Stunning reflection photos of the castle on the lake.
The Alternative: Exploring the Hohenschwangau Castle
While Neuschwanstein Castle steals most of the spotlight, don’t overlook its neighboring sibling: The Hohenschwangau Castle.
Situated just a short distance away, Hohenschwangau Castle is equally captivating and offers its own unique charm.
In the 12th century, Castle Hohenschwangau was mentioned in documents for the first time. So Hohenschwangau is like old-old – 600 years older then Neuschwanstein.
In the 19th century king Maximilian II (father of king Ludwig II) strolled around the – let’s say neighborhood – and found Hohenschwangau by accident. He liked the castle and the surroundings so much, that he bought the castle and renovated it to a romantic castle to live in.
This castle, where King Ludwig II spent his childhood, is open for exploration when you join a guided tour (45 minutes). Discover the royal chambers, learn even more fun details about the castle’s history, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Visiting Hohenschwangau Castle is a fantastic way to complement your experience at Neuschwanstein Castle.
If you want to visit both Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein in one day, plan 2,5 hours in between both castles. You need enough time to get from one castle to the other.
Conclusion: Is Neuschwanstein Worth It Without a Ticket?
In conclusion, while it’s not possible to visit the inside of Neuschwanstein Castle without a ticket, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore the Cinderella castle.
From admiring the castle’s exterior and surrounding grounds to hiking to the Marienbrücke Bridge and exploring the neighboring Hohenschwangau Castle, you can create a memorable experience on your own terms.
If tickets to Neuschwanstein castle are not available on the official website, check our guide how to get tickets to Neuschwanastein when it is sold out.
FAQ: Neuschwanstein without a ticket
Can you see Neuschwanstein without a ticket?
Yes,you can see Neuschwanstein without a ticket. However, if you want to see the interieur of Neuschwanstein, you need to purchase a ticket for a guided tour (30 min.). Tickets can be purchased in advance.
Can you walk around Neuschwanstein castle without a ticket?
Yes, you can walk around Neuschwanstein castle without a ticket. The castle’s grounds are open to the public, but access to the castle itself is restricted to guided tours, which require a ticket.
Is the Neuschwanstein Castle Germany worth a trip?
Yes, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is worth a trip. With its stunning architecture, breathtaking views, and fascinating history, it is a must-see destination for anyone interested in culture, history, and art.
What is the cheapest way to visit Neuschwanstein Castle?
The cheapest way to visit Neuschwanstein Castle is by taking a train to Füssen and then taking a bus to the castle. It’s also possible to see Neuschwanstein without a ticket. So this the cheapest way to see Neuschwanstein.
Can you take pictures inside Neuschwanstein Castle?
No, photography is not permitted inside Neuschwanstein Castle. Visitors are only allowed to take photos outside the castle and in the courtyard.
Where is the best viewpoint at Neuschwanstein?
The Marienbrücke is the best viewpoint to see Neuschwanstein Castle. It is located just a short walk from the castle and offers a stunning view of the castle and the surrounding landscape. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best experience.
Can you go inside Neuschwanstein castle?
Yes, you can go inside Neuschwanstein castle but you need to have a ticket. You can only go inside by joining a guided tour.
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