Known for his eccentric behavior and vibrant lifestyle, King Ludwig II left a glimpse of his lavish taste in the form of the royal castles he built.
King Ludwig II, aka the Mad King, built the Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Palaces, the centers of attraction in Bavaria.
He built three grand homes, of which Neuschwanstein Castle is the largest and Linderhof is the smallest.
Neuschwanstein’s unique architecture and its location with the Alps in the background are the selling points of the Castle.
While Linderhof boasts exquisite gardens and a serene environment, Neuschwanstein attracts more visitors than Linderhof.
This article will give you an overview of the different features of the two attractions, so you can decide between Lindehof and Neuschwanstein.
Quick Comparison of Linderhof and Neuschwanstein

Neuschwanstein Castle | Linderhof Palace |
---|---|
Inspired the Disney Movie ‘Sleeping Beauty’ | Was Inspired by the Palace of Versailles |
It is the largest of the three castles built by King Ludwig II | It is the smallest of the three castles built by King Ludwig II |
Located near Schwangau and Fussen in Bavaria | Located in Graswang Valley near Ettal village |
Only 14 rooms are completed inside the Castle | It is the only castle completed by King Ludwig II |
It is one of the most popular spots in Germany amongst locals and tourists | It is sparsely crowded |
Skip the line ticket | Full day tour |
Story Behind the Birth of Linderhof Palace vs Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle

Bavaria is known as the land of castles. It houses the three grand structures built by King Ludwig II during his reign.
The most famous of the three is Neuschwanstein Castle, which the king did not live to see completed.
Neuschwanstein has only 14 completed rooms, and the King never resided there.
The use of technology in the Castle’s construction is note-worthy, and the rooms were meant to serve as the royal residence and have central heating.
A telephone facility on the third floor and an automatic flushing system in the toilets with 24-hour running water.
King Ludwig had bells for calling servants, and lifts were fitted to ensure the food would stay warm between the kitchen and the dining hall.
The beautiful turrets and romantic views reflect the King’s fantasy. Wagner’s operas greatly influenced King Ludwig.
The ones that he liked were reflected in the architecture of the castle or the decorations within.
King Ludwig built the castle on a hilltop, however, not as a lookout for enemies but because he enjoyed the view from there.
Linderhof Palace

The King often visited this place with his father, King Maximillian, on hunting escapades during childhood.
When Ludwig became King, he bought the surrounding land and built Linderhof as a country retreat.
The Palace of Versailles had an impact on the building of Linderhof.
The rooms have ornate decorations in gold, and many paintings are on the walls.
It is said that the Gardens were the King’s motive for constructing the Palace.
The Palace of Linderhof is the place he supervised and used as his residence. It was the only place that he lived to see completed.
Best Views of Both the Castles
Linderhof: Best View

The palace’s park, intended to look like the gardens of Versailles and spread across 58 hectares, has undergone several changes.
Today, the park is adorned with miniature waterfalls, decorative gardens, and several types of trees that give a glimpse of French, English, and Spanish gardens.
The terrace garden with decorative flower beds gives panoramic views of the surroundings.
It also allows you to enjoy the tranquility that green landscapes provide.
Apart from the gardens, the castle’s interior is also stunning and was based on rococo design.
The King’s Bedroom, Hall of Mirrors, Moorish Kiosk, Moroccan House, and Royal Lime Tree are equally adoring.
Neuschwanstein Castle: Best View

The Neuschwanstein castle looks impressive from the front, but its view from Mary’s Bridge showcases the grandeur of the castle to its full potential.
Unfortunately, King Ludwig was not fortunate enough to see this magnificent castle take its complete form and died in 1886.
It was intended to build 200 rooms, but only 14 were finished then. The castle is 65,000 square feet in size and stands atop a hill.
The singer’s room, throne room with a 13-foot chandelier, bedroom, and study are some of the best things to see inside the castle.
The king also added modern facilities like a central heating system, running water, and telephone lines.
It’s hilltop location and idyllic setting add to Neuschwanstein’s imposing aesthetic, making Neuschwanstein Castle worth visiting.
Go on a full-day tour to visit these manifestations of the Mad King and adore his beautiful creations.
Book your tickets now!
Getting to Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace

You can arrive at Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace by car, bus, or train.
Even you can book a guided tour of these two places.
However, Linderhof Palace is slightly closer to Munich (97 km) than Neuschwanstein Castle (128 km).
Linderhof is located in the Graswang Valley near the Ettal village, while Neuschwanstein is in Hohenschwangau near Schwangau and Füssen in the Allgäu.
Linderhof Palace’s location also makes it easier for visitors to visit nearby attractions comfortably.
It takes only a 1-hour drive to reach Neuschwanstein Castle.
Location of Neuschwanstein Castle
A huge paid parking lot for 550 cars and 14 coaches is available near the Linderhof palace.
In the case of Neuschwanstein, you have to park your vehicle in the nearby village of Hohenschwangau in a P1 to P4 paid parking space.
Getting to Linderhof Palace: you do not have to walk to reach Linderhof Palace, while it takes 30 to 40 minutes of uphill walking, or you can take
As cars are not allowed on Neuschwanstein Road, you must take 30 to 40 minutes uphill walk.
Also, you can take a horse-drawn carriage or shuttle bus from the parking lot.
Linderhof Palace has no such condition because the parking is close to the entrance.
In southern Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace can be covered in a one-day trip and other attractions.
Read our article on How to Reach Neuschwanstein Castle if you want a step-by-step guide to reaching the castle.
How is the crowd? Linderhof vs Neuschwanstein Castle

You can expect a lot of visitors when you visit Neuschwanstein Castle, but Linderhof gives you the luxury of peace while visiting.
Being the most visited castle in Germany, visiting Neuschwanstein Castle requires more time as the line at the ticket center is long, especially in peak season.
The Linderhof sees fewer crowds, giving you more time to explore at your own pace for most of the season.
Therefore, it is crucial to know when to visit. Early morning or late afternoon have fewer crowds at Neuschwanstein Castle.
It usually takes 40 minutes to see the inside of Neuschwanstein Castle if you are on a guided tour and 30 minutes for Linderhof Palace.
The overall time to see Neuschwanstein Castle can go up to 2 hours if you also wish to explore the surroundings.
The best time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle vs Linderhof Palace
Neuschwanstein Castle

Of course, Neuschwanstein Castle is best seen in the summer, but with the best season comes the most intense crowd.
So, you can explore the castle in spring (March and April) and autumn (September and October).
The temperature is suitable, and you can expect less rainfall.
Although the winter season also gives a stunning view of snow-covered Neuschwanstein Castle, the freezing temperatures might spoil your tour.
The hours for Neuschwanstein Castle run from 9 am to 6 pm in summer and from 10 am to 4 pm in winter.
The castle is closed on December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st.
Linderhof Palace

Although Linderhof sees fewer crowds, it can also get all touristy in peak season.
However, the garden covers so much land that the crows will not even bother you.
Linderhof is at its peak in all weather, so it is up to you to decide when you wish to visit the castle.
However, the timing may vary according to the season.
The Linderhof palace hours are 9 am to 6 pm from April to mid-October and mid-October to March from 10 am to 4 pm.
Please remember that the palace is closed to the public on December 25, 26, and 31.
Ticket Prices: Linderhof vs Neuschwanstein

You will need tickets to see the exotic interiors of Linderhof Palace vs Neuschwanstein Castle.
Since Neuschwanstein is the most visited place, the ticket prices are on the higher end as compared to the Linderhof Palace.
Neuschwanstein’s adult ticket price starts at €15, whereas Linderhof’s starts at €10. The sheer beauty of both attractions justifies the ticket prices.
Both attractions allow visitors under 18 as long as an adult is present.
Students of public schools can also enter for free upon producing their identification card at the ticket counter.
If you wish to see only park buildings (Moorish Kiosk, Moroccan House, Hunding’s Hut) and not Linderhof Palace, you pay €5.
The park’s entrance and Neuschwanstein Castle’s exterior tour are free.
However, if you want to explore the interiors, you will need a ticket.
Moreover, you can explore these two attractions together if you plan to do so.
Book your Linderhof and Neuschwanstein combo tour online and avoid waiting in the ticket line.
Which one is better? Neuschwanstein Castle vs Linderhof Palace

Neuschwanstein is a castle, and Linderhof is a palace.
King Ludwig II designed these buildings which are still popular today. Many tourists wonder which one they should visit.
It’s hard to compare the two because they both have good and not-so-good points.
But here’s a simple way to decide: If you want to see the castle that inspired a Disney movie, go to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Go to Linderhof Palace to see a beautiful and finished castle.
If you’re interested in a castle that combines medieval architecture with modern technology, Neuschwanstein is the one for you.
On the other hand, Linderhof Palace has an amazing garden that you won’t want to leave once you start exploring it.
Both castles have unique qualities, but it’s best to visit them if possible.
You can buy a full-day tour ticket that allows you to visit both easily, making your trip to Germany even better.
A premium tour option is also available for a more private and comfortable experience.
Ultimately, it depends on which castle you want to visit or which is easier to reach.
But whichever one you choose, both Neuschwanstein and Linderhof offer incredible views and a memorable experience.
FAQs
1. Can we visit both Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace in one day?
Yes, it takes only an hour of driving to go from Linderhof Palace to Neuschwanstein Castle. The distance between these two is 60 km (37 miles) via B23 and B17. You can also take bus 9622 and then bus 9606 to arrive at Schwangau and then take a walk to Neuschwanstein Castle.
2. What is the best way to arrive at Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace?
We recommend you rent a car because a car will give you the flexibility to move around at your own pace. guided tour of Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle is also a good idea to explore both attractions pleasantly.
3. Can we take photos inside Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle?
Photography is prohibited inside both attractions. However, you can click as many photos of the exterior of Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle as you like. The best spots to capture the beauty of Neuschwanstein Castle are Mary’s Bridge and the terrace garden at Linderhof Palace.
Featured Image: Damiano Baschiera on Unsplash, Chloe ng on Unsplash