King Ludwig Castles Map: Discover Ludwig’s famous castles!
Some of the most iconic castles in the world are associated with King Ludwig II of Bavaria. In this article you’ll find a complete list of royal castles associated with my favorite German King, along with a handy map of King Ludwig’s castles to help you choose the castle for your itinerary. See one, or see them all, it’s up to you!
A romantic dreamer, often referred to as the Swan King or Fairy Tale King (der Märchenkönig), Ludwig spared no expense in creating lavish palaces across southern Germany.
UNESCO World Heritage
In 2025 The Palaces of King Ludwig II of Bavaria: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, Schachen and Herrenchiemsee were added to the UNESCO World Heritage list!
Table of Contents
King Ludwig Castles Map
As promised, here is a map of Ludwig’s Castles, which include some of the most breathtaking and magnificent places in the world.
The castles in the following sections offer a glimpse into the life and legacy of this extraordinary king. As you tour the castles and learn about his magical mystical tragic life, you may just find yourself as enamored with the unfortunate figure who once roamed them as you do the opulent castles that are associated with him!
Interactive Google Map
Use this interactive google map to map your route.
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King Ludwig’s Castles
These magnificent castles and dreamy palaces delight visitors from around the world and attract millions of visitors each year.
The five listed in this section are the most famous castles that are closely associated with Ludwig. But did you know there are more? You’ll find a list of these in the “more castles” section.
Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)
We’ll start with Nymphenburg, because that’s where it all began for Ludwig.
The Baroque Nymphenburg Palace, is the birthplace of Crown Prince Ludwig, who was born here in 1845. Originally built in the 17th century as a summer residence for the Bavarian Electors of the House of Wittelsbach, today it’s one of the most famous sights in Munich, renowned for its opulent architecture, and vast landscaped gardens.
Nymphenburg draws in more than 300,000 visitors per year, but also still serves as the home and official office for the head of the House of Wittelsbach, currently Franz, Duke of Bavaria (2025.)
Highlights: The palace features elegant galleries, priceless porcelain, intricate frescoes, ornate decor, and the magnificent carriages and sleighs of King Ludwig II. Visitors can explore various rooms like the royal apartments showcasing exquisite interior designs and artwork, as well as the beautifully maintained gardens that include fountains, statues, and a network of walking paths.
Get more information: www.schloesser.bayern.de
Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)
Neuschwanstein, with its fairytale design, is one of Germany’s most famous landmarks, a whimsical blend of medieval and Gothic styles, featuring fanciful turrets, and spires.
(get a full list of Germany’s most famous landmarks)
Perched dramatically on a rugged cliff top overlooking the village of Hohenschwangau, Neuschwanstein Castle is the most famous of King Ludwig II’s fairytale castles. Commissioned by him in 1869 on the location of the ruins of two twin medieval fortresses, this 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace served as a refuge for the king but today it’s one of the most visited castles in Germany, if not the entire world.
Neuschwanstein Castle’s opulent interiors can only be seen on a guided tour. Due to Ludwig’s untimely death, the castle was never finished so you’ll only see a few rooms on the tour.
Is the tour worth it?
Some say that Neuschwanstein is overrated but I wholeheartedly disagree! It’s true the castle is relatively new as far as European castles are concerned but it is also beautiful and steeped in history and legend. I believe that the tour is worthwhile. You’ll get to see some of the beautifully decorated rooms but also hear about the life of one of Germany’s most fascinating characters!
Although I found the castle impressive, I felt like the castle tour really brought to life the man who dreamed it to life.
Highlights: The Throne Room / Throne Hall, the Singers’ Hall, intricate wall hangings, frescos, murals depicting scenes from the operas of Richard Wagner, who was a close friend of the king, and the magnificent views from the upper floor.
Looking for more fairytale castles in Germany? You’ll find them here!
Get more information: Neuschwanstein visitor guide
Tips for visiting
Neuschwanstein has as many as 6,000 visitors per day. Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Allow plenty of time for the uphill walk from the parking lots to the castle entrance. (don’t miss the view from Mary’s Bridge which looks down over Pöllat Gorge)
Interesting Fact
Neuschwanstein is known as the Disney castle, inspiring not one but two Walt Disney castles, the Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty castles.
Hohenschwangau Castle (Schloss Hohenschwangau)
Hohenschwangau Castle, nestled amidst the dramatic Bavarian Alps, was the summertime boyhood home of Ludwig II. This romantic medieval-style fortress, built by Ludwig’s father King Maximilian II in the 19th century as a fantasy castle and royal lodge was intended to evoke an atmosphere reminiscent of the Middle Ages. Hohenschwangau offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the picturesque Alpsee.
Can you imagine young Ludwig, gazing over at the opposing hilltop dreaming his fanciful fairytale castle to life???
Today, more than 300,000 visitors per year descend upon Hohenschwangau, the place where Ludwig’s dreams surely took shape!
Highlights: The beautifully decorated rooms, including the Throne Room and the Gothic-inspired dining Room, and the panoramic views from the castle terraces. The interior rooms of this castle are quite impressive. You’ll need to take the tour to see them. We enjoyed exploring the castle grounds before our tour.
Visiting Both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau
Both castles can easily be visited in a single day, simply purchase a combination ticket at the ticket center. You’ll find tips on visiting both in this comprehensive guide, including tips on the best way to arrive at the castles, and allowing yourself plenty of time to get from one castle to the next.
Linderhof Palace (Schloss Linderhof)
Located in the picturesque Ettal Valley, Linderhof Palace is the smallest and most intimate of Ludwig’s creations, who had a slight obsession with all things French. This stunning Linderhof Palace was inspired by the French King Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles.
While you may be tempted to overlook this small palace, of all of the German castles this is a favorite of a friend who has a German mother and spent part of her adolescence in Germany. It’s certainly worth a spot on your Germany itinerary!
Highlights: the Moroccan House (built in Morocco and moved here!), the Moorish Kiosk (with its peacock throne), the Venus Grotto, an artificial cave built to illustrate the First Act of Wagner’s Tannhäuser. An “open sesame” rock leads to the artificial Venus Grotto with a waterfall and lake. Visitors can also explore the palace gardens, which are beautifully landscaped and feature fountains, statues, and manicured lawns.
Get more information: www.schlosslinderhof.de
Herrenchiemsee New Palace (Neues Schloss Herrenchiemsee)
Situated in the middle of Lake Chiemsee, this grand sprawling palace is Ludwig’s answer to the Sun King’s Palace of Versailles! On strict orders from King Ludwig, it was imperative that everything in this palace be done in the French style. Construction began in 1878 on this, the largest of the palaces commissioned by Ludwig.
Sadly, the king ran out of money and died at an early age before the place was complete, but it’s still worth a visit! Only a few weeks after Ludwig’s death the building was opened for the public. You’ll need to take the guided tour to see the interior rooms of the place.
Highlights: The “Bavarian Versailles” features a Hall of Mirrors, a copy of the one at Versailles. This room features 25 frescoes, all which celebrate Louis XIV of France, architect of the famous French Palace. You’ll also find a large, heated bathtub. I was taken completely aback to discover that the bathtub is more like a small room! I passed through the room thinking, “where was the bathtub” until it dawned on me, it was the entire room!
I’d say that my favorite thing about this palace is the formal garden with its fountains and statues, reminiscent of the gardens of Versailles.
the facade, and fountains of Herrenchiemsee Palace
tips on visiting: You will need to take a 20-minute ferry from the mainland over to Chiemsee Island. When you arrive at the island you can either take the 20 minute walk from the dock on the island or take a (very reasonably priced!) horse drawn carriage ride. We opted for the carriage! I recommend carving out an entire day to enjoy not only the palace but the lake and other worthwhile attractions in this area.
Get more information: www.herrenchiemsee.de
UNESCO World Heritage nomination
The royal palaces of Ludwig II of Bavaria have been officially registered on the German list of proposals for designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castles include Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, Scache, and Herrenchiemsee. A decision is expected in the summer of 2025.
Take a tour to the King’s Castles
I’m a free spirit and a do-it-yourself’er but there are plenty of tour operators offering to escort you to the king’s castles. Book a tour, relax, and let someone else worry about the driving, traffic, and navigation.
Here are some of the most popular tours listed on Get Your Guide:
(why I like to book with Get your Guide: Book Now Pay Later, free cancellation! ***always read the customer reviews before booking)
A variety of tour options are available, from simple tours to in-depth day tours. (Many of these include skip the line access to the castles.)
Private tours from Munich
- Private tour to Neuschwanstein castle from Munich
- Small aircraft tour, fly over Nymphenburg, Herrenchiemsee, and Neuschwanstein, stunning scenery included!
- Private day to Neuschwanstein castle from Munich
- Royal Fairytale Tour
- Private day trip to Linderhof Palace
- Private Van Tour to the Royal Palace of Herrenchiemsee
- Herrenchiemsee Palace Private Excursion from Munich by Train (meets at the train station in Munich)
Group tours from Munich
- Neuschwanstein Castle Full-Day Trip
- Neuschwanstein Castle & Linderhof Premium Tour
- Neuschwanstein Castle Full-Day Trip by Van
- Half-Day Skip-the-Line Neuschwanstein Castle Tour
- Neuschwanstein Castle by Bus with Alpine Bike Ride
- Herrenchiemsee Palace and Boat Trip Day-Tour
Other tours leave from Innsbruck, Zurich, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Füssen (a combo tour of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof) Check them out on Get Your Guide!
Explore the Romantic Road
The Romantic Road is a scenic route that winds its way through southern Germany, connecting charming towns and medieval castles. You can find a tour of the romantic road here.
MORE King Ludwig Castles in Germany!
We have covered the five most famous castles associated with Ludwig, but the king had a very busy mind and had his sights on building and renovating even more castles!
Ludwig and I are kindred spirits, alike in so many ways. I’m a bit of a dreamer, a little antisocial, and I prefer the night over day. BUT the thing we may have most in common is our ADD/ADHD! It seems his brain was all over the place, starting project after project without finishing the last. I can very much relate to this.
Here are more castle projects Ludwig is known for:
Falkenstein
Ludwig intended to construct a new castle of the Gothic Style on the site of existing castle ruins on Falkenstein mountain in the Allgäu. His plan was for its beauty and grandeur to rival that of the famous Neuschwanstein castle.
from and old postcard By Christian Jank – Public Domain, via Wiki Commons
roman Style Palace
Ludwig proposed a Byzantine, or Eastern Roman Empire, style palace in the Graswangtal Valley near the Linderhof Palace in Ettal.
chinese Style Palace
The king was dreaming up the plans for a Chinese summer palace by the Plansee in Tyrol Austria.
Berg Palace Castle Addition
Berg Palace was the summer residence of Ludwig II. He had a fifth tower constructed at Berg Palace which he named Isolde. Lake Starnberg at Berg Castle is where King Ludwig II of Bavaria met his untimely death.
King’s House on Schachen
This tiny structure located in the Wetterstein Mountains near Garmisch-Partenkirchen resembles a Swiss Chalet more than a palace. Built by Ludwig, he outfitted this mountain house with an opulent Oriental style interior. The location affords views of the Wetterstein massif which are some of the most magnificent mountain views in the Bavarian Alps.
Munich Residenz Palace Royal Apartment
Ludwig finished construction of the royal apartment in the Residenz Palace in Munich. He added a Winter Garden on the roof of the Fest Saalbau which included a grotto, ornamental lake, Moorish kiosk, and Indian royal tent. The garden was dismantled after his death due to water leaking through the roof into the apartments below. (source: Wikipedia)
Practical Information for Visitors
Plan ahead
It’s advisable to plan ahead to avoid disappointment. Ludwig’s are some of the most popular castles in Germany so booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during the peak tourist season. The castles can be particularly enchanting during the winter months but be sure to check for any seasonal closures or reduced hours.
“Königsschlösser” combination ticket
The Bavarian Palace Administration offers annual and 14-day combination ticket options for Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, and Herrenchiemsee. Hohenschwangau Castle is not administered by the administration and therefore not included in this combo ticket.
For Further Information see the Bavarian Palace Administration website
More about King Ludwig II
Ludwig II (Ludwig Otto Friedrich Wilhelm) was born in 1845 to Crown Prince Maximilian II of Bavaria and Princess Marie of Prussia, who in 1845 became King and Queen of Bavaria.
Ludwig was just shy of his 19th birthday when, upon the death of his father, he became the King of Bavaria, a constitutional monarch with a certain amount of power but not total authority. His youth and good looks endeared him to the people of Bavaria, his extravagant spending had the opposite effect on his ministers.
It’s quite evident from his castle building endeavors and apparent nonstop dreaming that King Ludwig preferred to live in a land of fantasy. His privileged birth afforded him the opportunity to do so.
He is often referred to as “Mad King Ludwig,” which I despise. There is little if any evidence that he was actually mad. Eccentric yes, a reckless spender yes, mad? I think not. In order to get the king and his spending under control, his ministry had him declared “mad” by a panel of psychiatrists who had never even met him in person. Wikipedia)
It’s quite fitting that a man who lived in a virtual fantasy world would conclude his storied life in 1886 surrounded by intrigue and mysterious circumstances. For eternity he’ll remain the subject of legend and lore, the likely victim of treachery.
You can learn more about Ludwig, his life and mysterious death in the water of Lake Starnberg in my Neuschwanstein article.
Interesting Fact
Oktoberfest started with the marriage of Ludwig I of Bavaria Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen, grandparents of Ludwig II.
Want to experience some of the most famous Germans in history on your next trip to Germany? Check out my “famous Germans and where to find them” article.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is King Ludwig’s Castle located?
There are five (5) castles associated with Ludwig and since he was the King of Bavaria, all are located in the German State of Bavaria. Both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau are in the village of Schwangau, Linderhof in Ettal, Herrenchiemsee on an island in Chiemsee Lake, and Nymphenburg in Munich.
What castles did King Ludwig build? How Many Castles Did King Ludwig Build?
Ludwig built 3 castles. German castles commissioned and erected by King Ludwig II of Bavaria include Neuschwanstein Castle in Schwangau, Herrenchiemsee Palace located on an island in Chiemsee Lake, and Linderhof Palace in Ettal.
Where are the castles of Mad King Ludwig?
You’ll find castles associated with King Ludwig II of Bavaria in Schwangau, Herrenchiemsee, Ettal, and Munich.
Did King Ludwig live in Neuschwanstein castle?
Sadly, King Ludwig II of Bavaria met a tragic end and untimely death before he took up residence in the fairytale castle which he imagined to life.
How many castles did King Ludwig II build? What Castles did Ludwig build?
While King Ludwig II of Bavaria is associated with several castles, there are three castles that he was responsible for building, Neuschwanstein Castle, Herrenchiemsee Palace, and Linderhof Palace.
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