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Main information:, tour of the state rooms.

Picture: Great Hall of Mirrors

The tour of the palace leads via the State Staircase to the upper floor (see plan) and from there via the northern staircase back down to the ground floor, where it ends with a visit in the bathroom and the robing chamber.

Rooms on the upper floor

Please click on a number in the plan or on a room in the list for a view of the interior:

Picture: Plan of Herrenchiemsee Palace (first floor)

3   State Staircase 4   Royal Bodyguard Room 5   First Antechamber 6   Second Antechamber 7   State Bedchamber 8   Council Chamber 9   Great Hall of Mirrors 10 Hall of Peace 11 Hall of War 12 Passage room (without picture) 13 Bedroom 14 Cabinet 15 Writing Room 16 Blue Salon 17 Dining Room 18 Porcelain Room 19 Small Gallery 20 Northern Staircase

Rooms on the ground floor

From the Northern Staircase the tour leads via a passage where the mechanism for the magic table in the dining room is installed on to the last two rooms, the Bathroom and the Robing Chamber .

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chiemsee castle tour

Castle Herrenchiemsee

King Ludwig's most magnificent palace should have been Herrenchiemsee. When he died it was far from finished. But even if it is not finished, it delights hundreds of thousands of guests every year who take one of the daily tours. The grand staircase leads to the state rooms on the upper floor, including the large mirror gallery . It becomes a concert hall during the Herrenchiemsee Festival. The splendid parade bedroom and the dining room with the famous “ table deck dich ” are among the other highlights of every guided tour of the palace.

Old and New Castle on Herrenchiemsee

Herrenchiemsee is probably the only island in the world with two castles . In addition to the “New Palace” of King Ludwig II, there is also the Augustinian Canons' Monastery, which is also known as the “Old Palace”. The king lived there during the construction work. The monastery building dates from the baroque period. Today it houses, among other things, the Chiemseemaler-Galerie . Anyone interested in German history should not miss the Constitution Museum. This is where the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany came into being.

Current information and prices

Current information on the regulations and ticket reservation is available here: https://www.herrenchiemsee.de

Price information is available here: https://www.herrenchiemsee.de

Few people know that Herrenchiemsee is a beautiful hiking area . The loop around the island is nine kilometers long. The most beautiful vantage points are “Otto’s Ruh” and “Paul’s Ruh” . The names go back to an old noble family. Count Paul Maria Vogt von Hunolstein lived on the island from 1840 to 1870. He named one of the viewpoints after himself and the other after his son Otto.

Opening hours

This information is supplied without liability.

chiemsee castle tour

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  • Visit Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle near Munich

Opening hours are long to visit Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle on Herren Island in the Chiemsee Lake near Munich in Bavaria, Southern Germany –most tickets to see the palace are sold onsite.

Opening hours are long to visit Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle on Herren Island in the Chiemsee Lake near Munich in Bavaria, Southern Germany. Most tickets to see the palace are sold on Herren Island.

© faabi / Depositphotos

Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle is the most opulent palace built by Bavarian King Ludwig II during the nineteenth century. It is less famous than the Disney-like Schloss Neuschwanstein – the popular neo-Romanesque castle he built near Füssen. As a result, crowds are less common at Herrenchiemsee Castle and like the king’s third folly – Schloss Linderhof Palace . Tickets for Schloss Herrenchiemsee are mostly sold onsite but a limited number are offered online too. Fortunately, opening hours are long too and there is seldom much of a wait as tours are frequent. Bus tours are sometimes available from Munich but far less common than to Schloss Neuschwanstein .

Herren Island in the Chiemsee Lake, Bavaria

Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle is on Herren Island, the largest island in the Chiemsee Lake in Southern Bavaria in between Munich and Salzburg. During the Middle Ages, monasteries were built on the two largest islands in the lake. The one for monks was on Herreninsel (meaning Men’s Island) to distinguish it from Fraueninsel (Women’s Island), which still has a working nunnery.

Several buildings are near the boat landing on Herren Island – the most important for most visitors is the Besucherzentrum (Visitors’ Center) where tickets to the palace are sold. Other buildings here include:

  • The Altes Schloss (Old Castle), which houses the Museum in the Augustinian Monastery. The museum covers the German constitution of 1948, a couple of rooms used by Ludwig II, paintings of the Chiemsee area, and a gallery dedicated to the works of Bavarian painter Julius Exter – frankly, of lesser interest to foreign visitors.
  • The Schlosshotel Herrenchiemsee is in a mansion and although not particularly luxurious (or too pricey) does allow guests to stay on the peaceful island in the evenings after day-trippers have left.

It is an easy twenty-minute stroll from the boat landing and visitors center to the Neues Schloss (New Palace), also referred to as the Königsschloss (King’s Castle) or simply Schloss Herrenchiemsee. The interior may only be seen on a compulsory guided tour lasting just more than half an hour.

  • A horse-drawn wagon makes the journey from near the boat landing to the palace in about fifteen minutes. It is available only from mid-April to late October.

No motorized vehicles, or indeed bicycles or scooters, are allowed to operate on Herreninsel, which makes the island ideal for strolling. A 7-km (4.3-mile) marked trail allows visitors to see the best sights on the island.

  • The Neues Schloss Herrenchiemsee and most of the island are accessible to wheelchair users.

GetYourGuide

Buy Tickets for Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle in Bavaria

Most of the tickets for Schloss Herrenchiemsee are sold at the Besucherzentrum (Visitors’ Center) near the boat landing on Herrninsel. Only a limited number of tickets are available online . Tickets bear the time of the tour of the interior of the palace – all other sights may be seen at leisure up to six months after the tickets were bought.

Many, if not most, visitors see only the Neues Schloss and the adjacent King Ludwig II Museum. The following ticket offers are available — only the combination tickets and multi-day passes include access to the main palace interior:

  • The Gesamtkarte Insel (Combination Ticket) gives admission to the Neues Schloss Herrenchiemsee, King Ludwig II Museum, as well as the museum and galleries in the Augustinian Monastery (Altes Schloss). This ticket is €11 and valid for six months — only the Schloss must be seen on the guided tour of the day of purchase.
  • The Einzelkarte König Ludwig II.-Museum gives admission to the King Ludwig Museum. This ticket is €5.
  • The Einzelkarte Augustiner-Chorherrenstift (Augustinian Monastery Ticket) gives admission to the museum and galleries in the Old Castle (Altes Schloss). This ticket is €6.
  • Kombiticket Königschlösser (Royal Palaces Combination Ticket) is valid for six months and gives one entry into each of the three royal castles of King Ludwig: Herrenchiemsee , Neuschwanstein , and Linderhof . It cost €31 but note the next offer below — the validity period is shorter but includes all three plus many more sights.
  • Even better value for visitors to Bavaria is the two-week and annual Bavarian Castles and Palaces season tickets . The two-week ticket is €35 for adults, or €66 for a family, and includes many of the top sights in Bavaria managed by the Bayerische Schlösserverwaltung. The annual ticket is €50 of €85 for a family ticket.

Children under 18 years old (groups excluded) have free admission but should register a time for the tour of the palace at the ticket window.

Admission to Herren Island itself, the parks, and gardens are free but of course, require a boat trip to reach the island.

Opening Hours of Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle

Visiting Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle

All sights on Herren Island are open daily except January 1, Shrove Tuesday (Fasching), and December 24, 25, and 31. Like many other major tourist sights in Bavaria, Schloss Herrenchiemsee is open on Mondays.

Opening hours are daily from April to mid-October from 9 am to 6 pm and from mid-October to March from 9:40 am to 4:15 pm. The last tours of the palace start an hour before closing time. The Julius Exter Gallery is closed during the winter season.

Tours of the palace take around 40 minutes with tours in German available continuously and usually in English at least once per hour. Hourly tours are also available from July to September in Italian, French, and Spanish.

The fountains (Wasserspiele) in front of the palace play twice per hour for about 15 minutes at a time from early April to early October.

Several transportation options are available to Schloss Herrenchiemsee . It is an easy day trip from Munich but also a great stop en route to Berchtesgaden, Bad Reichenhall, or Salzburg in Austria. Day-trip tours are also often available from Munich — less common in the colder months.

More on King Ludwig’s Castles and Palaces

The three fantasy castles of King Ludwig are all near Munich and are popular day trips whether on bus tours, driving, or using public transportation. Schloss Neuschwanstein and Schloss Linderhof are to the southwest and may be seen on the same day when driving or on tours. Schloss Herrencheimsee is to the southeast and also a good stopover en route to Salzburg.

Savings Deals in Bavaria:

  • Visit Mad King Ludwig’s Fantasy Castles Near Munich in Germany
  • Save on Top Sightseeing Site Tickets in Bavaria, Germany
  • Save with the Bayern Ticket on Public Transportation — Buy the Bayern Ticket Online from Deutsche Bahn , or consider the €49 Deutschland-Ticket .
  • Book Day-Trip Tours from Munich

Schloss Neuschwanstein and Schloss Hohenschwangau:

  • Buy Tickets for Schloss Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles
  • Transportation to Schloss Neuschwanstein
  • See Romantic Disney-Like Schloss Neuschwanstein Castle
  • Visit Schloss Hohenschwangau in Bavaria, Germany
  • Top Sightseeing Sites in Füssen and Schwangau
  • Book Day-Trip Tours from Munich to Schloss Neuschwanstein

Schloss Linderhof:

  • See Schloss and Park Linderhof in Bavaria, Germany
  • Visiting Schloss Linderhof: Opening Hours, Tickets, and Transportation
  • Book Day-Trip Tours from Munich to Linderhof

Schloss Herrenchiemsee:

  • See Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle in Bavaria
  • Transportation to Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle
  • Book Day-Trip Tours from Munich to Herrenchiemsee

GetYourGuide

About the author:

Henk Bekker

Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience writing online. He is particularly interested in history, art, and culture. He has lived most of his adult life in Germany, Switzerland, and Denmark. In addition to European-Traveler.com , he also owns a travel website on the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and maintains statistical websites on car sales and classic car auction prices . Henk holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of London.

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Home » Germany » Visit Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle near Munich

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Herrenchiemsee castle and the herreninsel.

Herrenchiemsee, the castle built by Bavarian King Ludwig II as a tribute to Versailles, is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the Chiemsee.

The castle is located on the largest island in the lake - the Herreninsel - and is easily reached from Prien and Gstadt (there are also ferry services from Bernau in the summer months).

The ferry landing is on the northern side of the island, with views over to the nearby lakeshore and area around the village of Gstadt. There is a ticket office and information centre for the castle located immediately on exiting the landing pier.

The island itself is around 2km² and there are various ways of walking to the castle (which is located nearer the southern end) as well as the occasional buggy (for hire). Those who are feeling energetic can take a 7km scenic circular walk around the island.

Benedictine Abbey - Herrenchiemsee

Immediately on the right after passing the information centre the former Augustine Abbey of Herrenchiemsee can be seen. This was founded in the same era as its sister on the neighbouring Fraueninsel by Duke Tassilo III of Bavaria. It is also known as the "Old Castle" as it was used as a residence by King Ludwig II during the work on Herrenchiemsee itself (the "New Castle") and there is a museum in the building showing his private rooms.

Herrenchiemsee Castle

Twenty minutes' walk from the landing stage, the castle and its gardens finally come into view. Herrenchiemsee is one of the three famous castles in southern Bavaria associated with the romantic history of Ludwig II of Bavaria - the others being Linderhof Castle near Oberammergau and Neuschwanstein Castle near Füssen .

Space is too short to repeat all the tales of Ludwig's obsession with the legends of Germany's past, his escape from reality into art and architecture and his great but ruinous vision of monumental construction works which led directly to his downfall.

Herrenchiemsee was designed as a symbol of the affection and respect that Ludwig felt for Louis XIV of France (otherwise known as the "Sun King"). The views through parkland to the castle, the fountains and the look of the building itself are all consciously a homage to Versailles.

Herrenchiemsee Castle

Ludwig acquired the Herreninsel in 1873 and work started on the castle five years later. Despite the tremendous amount of planning and money the building was never finished and, after Ludwig's mysterious death in the Starnberger See (another lake to the south of Munich), parts of the castle were demolished.

Nonetheless the castle and its lovely setting attract more than 10,000 visitors a day in summer high season. The castle can only be visited as part of a guided tour - times for tours in the various languages are allocated on purchase at the ticket office near the ferry station.

The tour itself takes just over 30 minutes and afterwards there is an opportunity to visit the King Ludwig Museum, which documents the life of the monarch, on the ground floor. In the summer months, the fountains in the gardens play every 30 minutes.

Herrenchiemsee Garden and Fountains

Chiemsee Accommodation Availability

If you would like to check all accommodation availability for particular dates in the Chiemsee region, including apartments and guesthouses, please use the form below:

www.chiemseehotels.com

Herrenchiemsee Palace Ticket Shop

Current information on your visit can be found on www.herrenchiemsee.de .

Combination ticket "Island"

The combination ticket "Island" entitles you to visit the Herrenchiemsee New Palace (incl. guided tour), the King Ludwig II-Museum and the Museum in the Augustinian Monastery Herrenchiemsee. Tickets cannot be returned or exchanged.

further information Show less

11-, € / 10,- € reduced

The tour of the Herrenchiemsee New Palace is only possible as part of the booked guided tour. Unfortunately, it is not possible to take part in a guided tour at a later date. Please allow sufficient time for the walk from the jetty to the castle (min. 45 minutes). Visits to the King Ludwig II-Museum in the New Palace and the Museum in the Augustinian Monastery Herrenchiemsee are possible on the day of booking without a fixed admission time during regular opening hours. In the case of reduced-price tickets and free tickets, original proof of eligibility must be presented on site. Subsequent reductions cannot be granted. Tickets cannot be returned or exchanged.

    available only in German

interactive tour, available only in German

Ticket "King Ludwig II-Museum"

The ticket entitles you to visit the King Ludwig II-Museum in the New Palace Herrenchiemsee. The visit to the state rooms in the New Palace is not included. Tickets cannot be returned or exchanged.

5,- € / 4,- € reduced

The visit to the King Ludwig II-Museum in the New Palace is possible on the day of booking without a fixed admission time during regular opening hours. Please note that the tour of the state rooms in the New Palace is not included. In the case of reduced-price tickets and free tickets, original proof of eligibility must be presented on site. Subsequent reductions cannot be granted. Tickets cannot be returned or exchanged.

Visits to the museum, the Maler am Chiemsee Gallery and the Julius Exter Art Gallery in the Augustinian Monastery Herrenchiemsee are possible on the day of booking without a fixed admission time during regular opening hours. In the case of reduced-price tickets and free tickets, original proof of eligibility must be presented on site. Subsequent reductions cannot be granted. Tickets cannot be returned or exchanged .

The ticket entitles you to visit the museum in the Augustinian Monastery Herrenchiemsee. Tickets cannot be returned or exchanged.

6,- € / 5,- € reduced

Ticket "Cathedral Chapter Church"

From April to end of October. The ticket entitles the holder to take part in a guided tour (in German) of the Inseldom.

The guided tour informs about the eventful history of the building, which not only housed a church but also a brewery for a time. The route leads from the cellar to the gallery. The Cathedral Chapter Church can be visited only with a guided tour. Guided tours from April to end-October: Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays at 11 am and 2 pm. The tour of the Cathedral Chapter Church is only possible as part of the booked guided tour (approximately 1 hour). Unfortunately, it is not possible to take part in a guided tour at a later date. In the case of reduced-price tickets and free tickets, original proof of eligibility must be presented on site. Subsequent reductions cannot be granted. Tickets cannot be returned or exchanged.

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chiemsee castle tour

Herrenchiemsee Castle Tour

Discover Germany's lakeland Versailles by train and boat

Quick Details

  • Hour Glass Duration: 9.5 hours
  • Clock Start Time: 9.20 am
  • User Ages: Ages 6+
  • Book Tour Language: English
  • Fully guided tours of both islands
  • Just a one-hour train journey to and from Munich
  • Old-fashioned ‘lake train’ and two boat trips
  • Palace grounds and walkways
  • Palace interior tour (optional)
  • Fraueninsel island and convent

Herrenchiemsee Day Trip

Our Herrenchiemsee Castle Tour brings you to Bavaria’s stunning lakeland Versailles, ‘mad’ King Ludwig II’s sumptuous island palace. A boat trip to another world.

Travel by train and boat to the “Herren” and “Frauen” islands on gorgeous lake Chiemsee, close to the Alps. Palaces, lakes, mountains: the full Bavarian experience. We take care of all arrangements: you just need to relax and enjoy it all.

Join us on a train and boat trip to Herrenchiemsee, the stunning palace on an island on Chiemsee lake. Inspired by the Palace of Versailles near Paris, the golden palace in the picture perfect setting of the Herreninsel island on the Chiemsee lake was built in the 19th century by ‘Mad’ King Ludwig II.

Known as ‘the Bavarian Sea,’ Chiemsee is the largest of many lakes near Munich. We take you on a boat trip to two islands: the Herreninsel (location of the palace) and the smaller Fraueninsel, with its lovely Benedictine Convent, whose origins stretch back 1300 years.

In some respects, as with its vast Hall of Mirrors, Herrenchiemsee actually surpasses Versailles. With its elegant gardens and walkways and its luscious interiors of gold, glass, and porcelain, it is a visually overwhelming monument to opulence. It also reflects the eccentric and troubled personality of Ludwig with features such as the celebrated elevated dining table, which could be raised and lowered through the floor to the kitchens below so that the reclusive king did not have to see his servants.

We’ll show you everything, and tell you the story, and you have the option of touring the interior of Herrenchiemsee castle. The complete day trip to Herrenchiemsee is one of the most unique and beautiful tourist experiences you can have in Germany. Just a short train ride from Munich, the Royal Castle of Herrenchiemsee is a glittering jewel on a lake island.

For the entrance and for the boad ride, there is an additional fee of 28 € per adult to be paid at our tour office!

  • Chevron down Where do we meet for the day trip to Herrenchiemsee?

All our tours meet in the Radius Tours Office, located at Dachauer Straße 4, 80335 Munich.

  • Chevron down When should I be at the meeting point?

Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the starting time for your visit to Herrenchiemsee? We depart promptly at the advertised time.

  • Chevron down What do I need to bring?

Be sure to wear suitable clothing and comfortable shoes, as we’ll mainly be outside and a reasonable amount of walking is involved. For most of the year, Chiemsee has a very pleasant climate, and perfect for walking, but the warm summer months experience occasional rain showers. Winter can be cold. Please consult the weather forecast before meeting us, and dress accordingly. We advise you to bring water on hot summer days. Our tours go, no matter what the weather.

  • Chevron down Should I tip the guide?

Yes, please! It is customary to tip in Munich and Bavaria, and our  tour guides certainly appreciate your generosity. They work hard to make our tours perfect, and tips are an important part of their income.

  • Chevron down Why Radius Tours?

We have been doing this for a very long time, and we are very good at it!

If you love your day in Herrenchiemsee – and you will! – you’ll want to check out our other great tours.

  • Chevron down Salzburg

Travel just across Austria’s border with Bavaria for a sightseeing day in Salzburg, one of Europe’s most beautiful old towns. Just two hours from Munich.  Perfectly complements Neuschwanstein Castle .

Book Salzburg here

  • Chevron down Dachau Memorial Site

Travel to the former notorious concentration camp in Dachau, now preserved as a memorial site. A deeply moving and educational experience for everyone who wants to understand Germany’s tragic 20th century history.

Book Dachau half-day trip here

  • Chevron down Discover Munich

If you want to learn more about King Ludwig after your visit to Herrenchiemsee Palace, check out our daily Munich walk. You’ll learn more about Ludwig and the other kings of Bavaria, and lots more besides as you discover Germany’s most beautful city.

Book Discover Munich here

  • Chevron down Bike Tour

It’s not all about castles. It’s also parks, plazas, beer gardens, and bike rides. See a different side of Munich and Bavarian culture with our much loved Bike Tour.

Book Munich Bike Tour here

  • Chevron down Bavarian Beer

Ludwig II built Neuschwanstein because he preferred castles to beer halls. But Ludwig was crazy. The only product of Bavaria more world-famous than Neuschwanstein Castle is Bavarian beer. Come on our Beer Evening and find out why.

Book Beer and Food Evening here

  • Chevron down Other great offers

Book our Third Reich walk here

Or simply email us to find out more about our menu of experiences, day trips, evening events and Private Tours.

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  • User Minimum age is 13. There are no exceptions possible
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Castles & Palaces

Herrenchiemsee Palace – a refuge for the fairytale king

Taking inspiration from King Louis XIV of France, Bavaria's 'fairytale king' Ludwig II had a luxurious castle built on Herrenwörth Island in Lake Chiemsee in 1878. Unfortunately, he didn't live to see the finished result.

King Ludwig II, the most enthusiastic admirer of the French 'Sun King', wanted to create a building that would emulate the Palace of Versailles yet raise the bar even higher. Once he had bought the idyllic Herrenwörth Island in Lake Chiemsee, work started on a fairytale castle in 1878, with a view to creating a refuge for the melancholy king. In the 20 grand rooms open to the public, visitors are treated to the most lavish decor, including marquetry flooring, carved panelling, stucco marble cladding, opulent wall and ceiling frescos and spectacular chandeliers and furniture.

But the highlight has to be the Hall of Mirrors, which is almost an exact replica of the one in the palace in Versailles. The hall along the garden front measures 98 metres in length. Wall mirrors, domed ceilings painted with frescos, gilded stucco, 44 free-standing lights and 33 sparkling ceiling chandeliers adorn what has to be the most lavish banqueting hall in the world. Visitors also need to check out the Ludwig II Museum, which is home to magnificent furniture, documents and sketches relating to building projects, letters to Richard Wagner and stage models from his operas.

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History Curator

Herrenchiemsee Palace: History and Visitor’s Guide

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HERRENCHIEMSEE Palace HISTORY

Herrenchiemsee Palace is a 19th century palace built on an island in the middle of Chiemsee, a lake near the Alps in Bavaria, Germany. Built by the infamous Fairy Tale King Ludwig II, the palace was an elaborate imitation and interpretation of Versailles built to be one of the king’s many rural palaces. The palace remains unfinished, but visitors can still take a guided tour of the finished parts of the Bavarian king’s home.

Herrenchiemsee Palace

KING LUDWIG II & HERRENCHIEMSEE

King Ludwig II is most famous for Neuschwanstein, the fairy tale style castle located just outside Fussen in Bavaria. However, the young king dreamed up and built many more fantasy worlds before his untimely and tragic death at the age of 41. One of these was his own personal recreation of Versailles in Bavaria.

King Ludwig II struggled with his role as king in the changing world of the late 19th century. Versailles’ Sun King reminded him of a simpler time, when kings enjoyed absolute power and were free to build their visions. In an homage to King Louis XIV, King Ludwig II commissioned the building of a replica of Versailles on the island of Herrenchiemsee.

King Ludgwig II of Bavaria in royal portrait

BUILDING HERRENCHIEMSEE Palace

The palace would be a colossal undertaking, requiring all materials and workforce to be ferried from the mainland on to the island in Lake Chiemsee. Ludwig intended to not only recreate the palace, but the gardens and fountains.

Ludwig put new technologies and architectural feats to work for him in his new version of Versailles. His Versailles boasted a massive swimming pool on the first floor of the palace. A “magic” table arrived through the floor of the dining room already set and prepared (after being set by servants below and hoisted up over a 30 minute process).

And Ludwig made the palace his own. While Herrenchiemsee boasts a gorgeous replica of the hall of mirrors that took servants hours to light all of the candles on, it also features an artificial moon in his bedroom.

Herrenchiemsee Palace

UNIQUE FEATURES OF HERRENCHIEMSEE

A creature of the night, Ludwig would work and wander the halls during the late night hours, sleeping in the day time. Wanting to recreate the ambiance of the night, he had a giant blue orb installed on the end of his bed. With the help of soft candle lighting, the room would recreate the look and feel of moonlight.

The unique features extend through other parts of the palace as well. A stunning chandelier is the only one of its kind in the world, as Ludwig paid extra to make sure the original mold was destroyed. Furniture and decorative art was imported from all over the world, with groups of workers devoting years of their life to a single tapestry in the palace. Secret pathways from his bedroom to his dressing room and to the swimming bath below allowed Ludwig to avoid visitors and servants.

UNFINISHED PALACE

The palace was never fully completed however. When King Ludwig II died in 1886, entire wings of the palace were left unfinished. The kitchen, for example, remains stripped down to the bare architectural bones. Uninterested in seeing any more of the treasuries depleted (rumors persist that Ludwig’s death as not an accident, but rather a murder after opponents of his saw no other way to put an end to his rule and his spending), the palaces and castles Ludwig planned remained as they were during his life and those that he had yet to begin, a more grandiose fairytale castle than Neuschwanstein as well as a castle inspired by the Byzantine era, remain only as drawings in the archives.

VISITING HERRENCHIEMSEE – A HOW TO GUIDE

King Ludwig II was one of a kind, and his palaces reflect that. I’ve been slowly but surely using my trips to Germany to explore the castles and palaces he lived in and created. Herrenchiemsee had been high on my list for some time, as its not only a beautiful palace with an intriguing past, but it’s also set in an equally beautiful location.

Nestled against the Alps, on a clear day you can see the snowy peaks and take in the crystal clear color of the lake.

Bavarian Alps and Rapeseed Field filled with yellow flowers

HOW TO GET TO HERRENCHIEMSEE Palace From Munich

As mentioned, Herrenchiemsee is in the middle of a lake and only reachable by boat. Prien am Chiemsee is a popular vacation destination for Germans, and ferries operate between Prien, Herreninsel, Fraueninsel, and other destinations around the lake.

To reach the ferries, you’ll want to head to the town of Prien am Chiemsee. You can reach Prien in many different ways. Munich and Salzburg are both about an hour away by car and train.

Germans have excellent trains that run efficiently, and a train runs from Munich to the Hauptbahnhof in Prien. You can also make the scenic drive down the Autobahn. Prien is a popular destination for local and foreign tourists and has ample parking.

I was lucky enough to have family in Munich willing to take us by car. We took the drive from Munich to Prien am Chiemsee, which is about an hour long:

Since it was a beautiful spring day, we were treated to gorgeous views of bright yellow rapeseed fields, tiny Bavarian towns and churches, and stunning glimpses of the Alps.

PARKING FOR HERRENCHIEMSEE

We parked in the large parking lot near the docks, and made the walk from the parking lot to the ferry dock. The parking lot is large but is made of gravel, so expect a little bit of a challenge if you have wheelchairs or strollers with you.

HERRENCHIEMSEE TRAIN TO THE FERRY

There is a steam locomotive (from 1887!) that runs passengers between the central part of Prien where the train station is and the docks that can easily get you there as well. It runs during the high season – May – September.

Ferries at Prien am Chiemsee

HERRENCHIEMSEE FERRY TO THE ISLAND

Once at the docks you can buy tickets to take the ferry to Herrenchiemsee. You can either buy a one destination ticket to Herreninsel (the island Herrenchiemsee is located on) or a multi-destination ticket to other islands and towns on the lake.

Then you’ll need to queue up for the boat. The boats came in all shapes and sizes and were adorably named. We took an older boat aptly named Siegfried for one leg of the trip. The boats have bathrooms as well as a snack bar. Guests can sit below deck and watch the views from large picture windows, or choose to let the lake breeze blow through their hair above deck.

The views from the boat are particularly gorgeous on a clear day, and sail boats are popular on the lake.

HERRENCHIEMSEE Palace TICKETS

Once you arrive at Herreninsel, you’ll need to purchase  tickets  to enter Herrenchiemsee. After disembarking you’ll follow the footpath up to the visitors center where you can purchase tickets. You can also reserve tickets in advance from their website, but given the various forms of transportation you’ll need to take to get there it may be better to buy when you arrive as the tickets are timed.

The tours come in several languages, including English. Our English language tour also provided written guides in a variety of other languages that were offered before the tour began.

Horse drawn carriages at Herrenchiemsee

GETTING TO THE PALACE FROM THE VISITOR’S CENTER

After purchasing your tickets, you’ll need to make the journey up to the castle. It’s a 15-30 minute walk depending on your pace. (Yep. This is definitely a multi-step journey – but it’s worth it, I promise!)

Since we had two wheelchair users, and quite a bit of the walk is uphill we opted to take the horse-drawn carriage. If it had been me alone, I doubt I would have taken the carriage. I feel conflicted about the horses-as-tourist-schleppers market, and it’s expensive. A horse-drawn carriage is how Ludwig would have arrived to the palace, so it was a unique experience to have that perspective – even if my ride involved a carriage packed with tourists wearing fanny packs rather than opulent royal décor and the silence of my own thoughts coursing through the forest.

https://collectedhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Forest-outside-Herrenchiemsee-768x1024.jpg

HERRENCHIEMSEE Palace TOUR

Once you arrive, you’ll need to wait for your tour group. The tours are timed and are roughly about a half an hour. They’ll lead you through all the finished rooms, starting with the grand entry way. We were able to see entertaining rooms, ball rooms, the hall of mirrors, King Ludwig’s bedroom, his dressing room, the swimming pool room, the dining room and a number of other corridors as well as the underbelly of the building where servants would work to raise the dining table to the main room.

Unfortunately, you cannot take pictures during the tour. While yes, there are good reasons to not allow photographs in certain museums and historic sites, none of them seemed to be at play here. This rule combined with the fact that the tour takes a brisk pace through the rooms (another accessibility note in a minute) in order to stay on schedule meant that there was quite a bit of chaos. Chaos in terms of certain folks trying to evade the guide, straggle behind and take clandestine photos anyway. While I’m a big proponent of letting folks take pictures in museums, when its not allowed, I find it supremely frustrating when folks try to circumvent the rules by inconveniencing everyone around them.

https://collectedhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Bat-Museum-Exhibit-at-Herrenchiemsee-768x1024.jpg

BAT (FLEDERMAUS) MUSEUM

At the end of the tour there is a small bat museum – yes bats! Apparently, the island and the attic of the palace is home to a group of bats! The exhibit is only one room, but interpretive text and exhibits discuss the importance of bats to the island and details of their biology and lifespan. Video cameras in the rafters allow guests to get an infrared glimpse of the bats while they sleep during the day on screens in the exhibit. There was also a small case of local objects, food and gifts that had been inspired by the local bats.

There is a gift shop in the palace where visitors can buy everything from fine china to t-shirts inspired by King Ludwig II. He is wildly popular in Bavaria and beyond, and has a cult-like following and is a pop culture phenomenon as well. So you can get his likeness on almost anything you want. Ironically, though he spent through the coffers building his outrageous fantasy castles, he’s more than made that money back for the tourism market in Germany!

https://collectedhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Chiemsee-1024x688.jpg

ACCESSIBILITY AT HERRENCHIEMSEE

Unlike some of the other castles and palaces out there, thanks to its unfinished nature, Herrenchiemsee is accessible and has discreetly hidden modern elevators for that purpose. We were even able to rent a wheelchair at the visitor’s center!

ACCESSIBILITY AND HORSE CARRIAGES

While our first driver was very keen to help with the wheelchairs, and was very easy going about helping to load and unload them, the second driver was less than helpful and more worried about getting a scratch on his wagon than anything else. I can’t imagine its an easy job ferrying tourists back and forth all day, so I try to give those folks a pass. We were lucky enough to have fluent Bavarian speakers with us to smooth the way. I’m not sure how it would have gone with my much more broken college German.

Additionally, there are no ramps or steps to get into the horse carriage. A small somewhat precarious ladder is the only way up

ACCESSIBILITY ON THE TOUR

While people did their best to make space for us and be mindful of the wheelchair, the only way a wheelchair user was able to see anything was as we were leaving the room. Thanks to the brisk pace, she wasn’t able to see as much as we would have liked.

However, because we needed to access the elevator and weren’t able to take the steps we did get to see some areas of the palace that are otherwise inaccessible to visitors – unfinished hallways and rooms. At one point we were guided by an employee through several doors and down a hall as we were finishing up the tour.

ROYAL AUGUSTINIAN MONASTERY

Although we did not visit it, I should mention that the Royal Augustinian Monastery also has a museum inside. Built between the 16th and 17th centuries in Baroque style, the monastery was home to the Augustinian order for a number of years but also holds other German History. Famous artist Johann Baptist Zimmerman contributed his talent to the library hall. King Ludwig II occupied apartments there during the building of Herrenchiemsee, and his apartment is preserved as it was. And last, but certainly not least, the conference to create the constitution for the Federal Republic of Germany was held there in 1948.

https://collectedhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Fraueninsel-Map-1024x686.jpg

FRAUENINSEL

Across the lake from Herreninsel, is Fraueninsel or sometimes referred to as Frauenchiemsee. While the Monastery is no longer active, the Benedictine convent is still home to nuns who make a famous Kloster Liquor. The island also has a small number of homes and permanent residents, but there are no cars on the island. Visitors can walk around for picturesque views of the convent, lake and the surrounding Alps.

https://collectedhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Fraueninsel-Restaurant-768x1024.jpg

There are several guesthouses and restaurants on the island. We stopped there for lunch at the Klosterwirst Chiemsee, which had hearty food (I recommend the Goulash!) and a beautiful view at the end of the dock.

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Herrenchiemsee Palace with the fountain and a fountain figure in the front.

Schloss Herrenchiemsee

The bavarian versailles.

In 1878, King Ludwig II began construction on a palace to match Versailles on Herreninsel island in Chiemsee (lake). Schloss Herrenchiemsee (Herrenchiemsee Palace) was the Fairytale King's final and most luxurious construction project.

Icon zur Trennung von Inhalten

Royal journey to Herrenchiemsee Palace

From the pier at Chiemsee , the palace is around a 15-minute walk away or – if you would prefer to travel in the style of the fairytale king and his guests – you can take a horse and carriage instead. If you opt for the pleasant carriage ride through the island’s shady forest to Schloss Herrenchiemsee and its park with ornate water features, you may genuinely feel as though you have been transported back to a bygone era.

Herrenchiemsee Palace and its history

Ludwig II was a great admirer of the Sun King Louis XIV and wanted to model Herrenchiemsee after the Palace of Versailles, paying homage to the absolute monarchy. The majority of the drafts for the building were created by the architect Georg von Dollman, who had to carefully study the palace’s French role model.

Baroque park of Schloss Herrenchiemsee in the hinterland of Munich.

Just like all of the other palaces belonging to Ludwig II, Schloss Herrenchiemsee was not designed to become a seat of government, nor would it be home to the royal court. The palace was built solely as a private residence for the reclusive king, who wanted to use it as a retreat from public life. When visiting his fairytale palaces, the king would travel with a very small contingent of staff to look after his needs.

However, the Bavarian king ended up spending just ten or so days at Schloss Herrenchiemsee in the summer of 1885. Furthermore, the building project was never fully completed as the king then died under tragic circumstances in the summer of 1886.

Guided tours of Herrenchiemsee Palace

The suites designed under Ludwig II are open to visitors as part of the palace’s regular guided tours. The grand interior is marked by its exceptional quality and unmatched splendour. Highlights include the vast Hall of Mirrors, the breathtaking marble staircase and the “Wishing Table”, a concealed dining table inspired by the Grimm fairytale and designed to allow the king to dine alone without serving staff.

Modelled on Versailles – the Herrenchiemsee Palace Park

The magnificence of the palace is matched by the park and its spectacular water features, which were designed by Carl von Effner, the Director of the Royal Gardens. Versailles also provided the inspiration for the design here. Work began in 1882, four years after groundwork on the palace started, but was brought to a close before the park could be completed due to Ludwig's death in 1886.

Baroque park of Schloss Herrenchiemsee in the hinterland of Munich.

Museum in Herrenchiemsee Palace: All about Ludwig II.

Schloss Herrenchiemsee also houses a museum, which incorporates twelve rooms on the ground floor of the southern wing. The museum reveals the interesting history behind Ludwig II’s life, from his birth to his tragic death, using portraits, busts, historical photographs, furniture and original examples of his grand dress.

The king has even gone down in musical history as the patron of composer Richard Wagner. The museum sheds light on this topic with portraits, original documents, model theatres and set designs. The exhibition also focuses on the king’s other palaces Schloss Neuschwanstein and Linderhof as well as some of his other construction projects.

Herrenchiemsee Palace: How to get there from Munich

Visit the palace straightforward on a guided day trip or travel from Munich by car: you can reach Schloss Herrenchiemsee on the A8 motorway (between Salzburg and Munich). Take the Bernau exit and follow the signs for Prien am Chiemsee.

Boat on the Herrenchiemsee in the hinterland of Munich.

If you are travelling by train, the trip from Munich Hauptbahnhof (central station) to Prien am Chiemsee takes around one hour. During the summer season, the Chiemsee railway runs a service from Prien station to Prien/Stock harbour. Otherwise, the harbour is around 30 minutes away on foot. The harbour at Prien/Stock runs regular boat services to Herreninsel.

Tip: Island hopping! Why not combine your visit to Schloss Herrenchiemsee with a stroll on the picturesque Fraueninsel, where the island’s fishermen sell their freshly smoked Chiemsee whitefish and other specialities? The island is a truly idyllic spot with winding paths that take you past romantic fishermen’s cottages and artists’ houses. Fraueninsel is also home to the 1200-year-old Frauenwörth convent. The boat company Chiemsee-Schifffahrt  offers various combination tickets.

www.herrenchiemsee.de

Frequently asked questions about Herrenchiemsee Palace

Who owns Herrenchiemsee Palace?

Today, Herrenchiemsee Palace belongs to the Free State of Bavaria. The Bayerische Schlösserverwaltung (Bavarian Administration of State Palaces, Gardens and Lakes) is one of the Free State's most traditional administrations. Originating as the court administration of the electors and kings, today it is one of the largest state museum organisations in Germany.

How much did it cost to build the castle?

The original cost estimate for the palace was 5.7 million marks, but by the time the king died, expenditure had almost tripled to 16.6 million marks.

When was the New Herrenchiemsee Palace built?

Construction of the palace began in 1878 under King Ludwig II and ended in 1886 with the death of King Ludwig II.

Who lived in Herrenchiemsee Palace?

Herrenchiemsee Palace was Ludwig II's last major building project and he only lived in it for a few days. In 1886, when King Ludwig II died, the palace had not yet been completed.

How long does a guided tour of Herrenchiemsee Palace take?

The New Herrenchiemsee Palace with its state rooms can only be visited with a guided tour (duration approx. 30 minutes).

Which is bigger, Versailles Palace or Herrenchiemsee Palace?

Herrenchiemsee Palace, which was to be larger than Versailles Palace, surpassed the model palace in Paris in some rooms. Unfortunately, however, it remained unfinished.

Is the Herreninsel inhabited?

Herreninsel is only inhabited by a few people all year round.

How long does the boat trip to Herreninsel take?

You can reach Herreninsel in approx. 20 minutes from Prien/Stock on the Chiemsee-Schifffahrt boats.

Photos: Chiemsee Alpenland Tourismus, Frank Stolle

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Neuschwanstein Castle in fog in the surrounding region of Munich.

Straight out of a picture book

Schloss neuschwanstein.

King Ludwig II built his fairytale castle Neuschwanstein in order to withdraw from public life.

King Ludwig II built his fairytale castle Neuschwanstein in order to withdraw from public life. Things turned out differently.

The Nymphenburger Park in Munich photographed from above.

Nymphenburg Palace

A jewel of the baroque.

Nymphenburg Palace served as a summer residence for the Electors and Kings of Bavaria in the 18th century. 

Nymphenburg Palace served as a summer residence for the Electors and Kings of Bavaria in the 18th century.  Today it is one of the largest castles in Germany.

Herrenchiemsee Palace with the fountain and a fountain figure in the front.

On Herreninsel in Chiemsee (lake), King Ludwig II created a second Versailles in 1878.

The Fairytale King's most magnificent building: on Herreninsel in Chiemsee (lake), King Ludwig II created a second Versailles in 1878.

Schloss Linderhof in the hinterland of Munich.

King Ludwig's favourite castle

Schloss linderhof.

Schloss Linderhof (Linderhof Palace) was Ludwig II's favourite and the place where he spent most of his time.

The perfect insight into the life of Bavaria's Fairytale King: Linderhof Palace was Ludwig II's favourite place where he spent most of his time.

View of Castle Blutenburg

The former hunting lodge

Schloss blutenburg.

The medieval castle complex in the west of Munich was first documented in 1432.

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Schleißheim palace complex nearby Munich photographed from above in autumn.

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Herrenchiemsee Palace EXCLUSIVE Lake Chiemsee Tour with Salzburg or EAGLE'S NEST from Munich

chiemsee castle tour

  • Ride in a new luxurious Mercedes- or VW Minivan (a/c) - only your group participates!
  • Tour length: 9 or 11 hours
  • Licensed, friendly and experienced tour guide
  • Guided tours at all mentioned places possible - scenic routes
  • Mineral water
  • No hidden costs!
  • Chiemsee ferry (2024): € 12.60 (discount for children 6 - 15 years) Only cash payment possible!
  • Skip-the-Line Admission to Herrenchiemsee Castle (2024): Adults: € 11.00/children up to 17 years free
  • Skip-the-Line Admission Eagle's Nest (2024 - bus ride incl. lift): Adults € 31.90 / children (6 to 14 years): € 16.50
  • Entry/Admission - Schloss Herrenchiemsee
  • Entry/Admission - The Eagle's Nest
  • . Pick up at any hotel/address in Munich at 8:00 or 9:30 am OR ANY OTHER TIME YOU WANT - then we ask for a short notification! . Pick-up (and/or drop-off) on customer request also possible outside Munich (e.g. airport MUC) - please ask us about possible additional costs!
  • Infant seats available
  • Stroller accessible
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Photo credit: Foto #3 (Schlafzimmer Herrenchiemsee) © Bayerische Schlösserverwaltung (herrenchiemsee(dot)de)
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
  • Schloss Herrenchiemsee
  • The Eagle's Nest
  • Maria Ramersdorf Kirche

Similar experiences

chiemsee castle tour

  • You'll get picked up See departure details
  • Pass by Maria Ramersdorf Kirche Schloss Wildenwart
  • 1 Prien am Chiemsee Stop: 10 minutes See details
  • 2 Schloss Herrenchiemsee Stop: 2 hours - Admission excluded See details
  • 3 Fraueninsel im Chiemsee Stop: 75 minutes See details
  • 4 Gstadt am Chiemsee Stop: 25 minutes See details
  • 5 The Eagle's Nest Stop: 2 hours - Admission excluded See details
  • 6 Salzburg Stop: 2 hours See details
  • 7 Upper Bavaria Stop: 3 hours See details
  • You'll return to the starting point

chiemsee castle tour

  • O3053IQrachelh 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A flexible tour experience. My husband and I took this tour as part of our Honeymoon trip, and we had a fantastic experience! Stefan was great! He was very informative about the history of Bavaria, the sights we were seeing, and local trivia. I would highly recommend doing a private tour to see Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau as you will be able to take in the sights at your own pace (and not having to worry about purchasing the ticket to Neuschwanstein yourself is an added perk). If you want to go into Hoenschwangau and/or Linderhof you will need to purchase tickets. Tickets to Hoenschwangau need to be purchased in advance, but you can wait to purchase Linderhof tickets till the day of at the ticket office of the palace if you decide you want to see it. We went to all three palaces, and I am glad we did as we got to see three very different structures. Alongside the three palaces, we were able to see the lake where Ludwig II and his psychiatrist were found dead, Oberammergau, and Ettal Abbey. The views of the Alps were stunning, and we were able to enjoy them peacefully. This tour was a fantastic end to our Honeymoon. Read more Written May 13, 2024
  • karenvA6975GS 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour with Max Max was incredibly knowledgeable and delivered the historical information in a logical, coherent and fun manner that kept us all interested. Highly recommend to tour with Max! Read more Written April 30, 2024
  • Voyage602931 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceptional Tour of Salzburg and all things "Sound of Music" This tour was the highlight of our trip to Europe in April 2024. Our tour guide was most certainly the most knowledgeable person on the Sound of Music and an exceptional guide. We spent four hours hearing about the moving and the making of the movie while he drove us from site to site in a lovely car. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who wants to learn more about the movie and Salzburg. Read more Written April 28, 2024
  • patriciasR1337VI 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles More than expected... We travelled with leger silver service,the logistics of this trip(and all other trips) was absolutely amazing,our coach hosts/drivers , Neil and Marcus were very hard working ultra efficient,thoughtful,attentive and informative and our confidence to travel with leger in the future is 💯 nothing was to much trouble forthese two guys. ... the hotels,breakfast and evening meals were very good... Thank you for the wonderful experience and we hope to meet again Read more Written December 10, 2023
  • kris772016 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Highly recommend Christian! Christian was a wonderful tour guide! If we could give him a rating of 10, we absolutely would! He is so well informed and gave us an absolutely amazing tour of the castles and Weiskirche. We have taken other tours in the past, and he was by far the best guide we've ever had. He knew the history of each location and answered all of our questions. We highly recommend Christian if you are considering a tour! Read more Written October 9, 2023
  • ArchAngel521 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles MARVELOUS Experience! Absolutely marvelous experience! We arranged a private tour exactly to our interests. We went to the Alpine Coaster, a thrill for the younger members of our group. Then via Oberamergau, a rolling tour, and to Neuschwanstein. Stefan picked us up directly at our hotel door exactly on time in an immaculate Mercedes-Benz van. He had worked with us personally through the whole process of our changing plans and requirements, pre-arranging reservations and tickets, and making everything run like clockwork. He was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Bavaria, Maximilian II, Oberamergau, and could pretty much answer any question put to him. I'll add that he was an extremely safe driver, and accommodating to our requirements from a child's carseat to handling a folding wheelchair. If you a looking for a private custom tour of Munich, Bavaria, or Salzburg I cannot reccomend Sightseeing-Bavaria Exclusive highly enough!! Read more Written August 8, 2023
  • StephanieCh-4 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau Castle Private Skip-the-Crowds Tour from Munich. Carl was an absolute amazing tour guide. He went above and beyond to provide us with an incredible tour and a breath-takingly beautiful drive to/from Munich and the castles. We enjoyed his informative and interesting narratives about the sites we visited. He also engaged so well with my 2 college aged kids...kudos for keeping them interested also the entire day! We highly recommend booking this tour with Carl! Read more Written July 28, 2023
  • PatrickLL333 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles July 2023 Munich Trip Spectacular castle!! Simply stunning views on such a beautiful day! Took a Grey Line Tour, which was tremendous as we had a lovely bus and a great tour guide.... the castle is a nice hike up the hill, wonderful views from the walk up, the bridge view is out of this world and a timed entry into the castle for the tour was perfect and not a long wait. A few of the rooms were closed for renovations but the rooms that were completed by Ludwig and shown were stunning!! Just a perfect day trip to see this unfinished masterpiece of King Ludwig. Also nice memories of the Disney movie! Easy trip by a tour bus from Munich. Read more Written July 20, 2023
  • TravelingTiff007 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Catered to what you want I booked this because I wanted to see Neuschwanstein Castle but was not sure how to get there or what else to see. Our guide, Thomas, was informative and very easy to get along with. Since we didn't have a set schedule, he was able to point out a few items not listed on the itinerary, which made for a great time. Thomas even showed us around Munich and circled places on the map for us to see on the remainder of our trip. We enjoyed his stories and was very happy he chose great music on the ride around the (just over) 11 hour tour. Dankeschön, Thomas!! Read more Written May 31, 2023
  • travisl91 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience with Christian This tour is pricey but completely worth it. We were picked up from the center of Munich and transported privately in a very comfortable Mercedes van to Lindhoff palace before the tour busses had arrived. Coordinating tickets/time slots/etc at Neuschwanstein can be difficult given how popular it’s become but that was all taken care of for us and our guide Christian made sure we were heading in the right direction at the right time to make sure we made our slot. Christian also was a treasure trove of information about the local area/history/etc. We stopped at a beautiful lake in Austria and a quiet small town with a UNESCO heritage cathedral and small beer garden where there were no other tourists in site other than those that biked there - it was a completely different experience than if we had done it with a large group on a bus. This is definitely the way to see Bavaria from Munich! Read more Written May 28, 2023
  • VSM09 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Super tour agency. Comfortable clean car. Our guide / driver Armin was super. We thoroughly enjoyed our two days touring castles and the romantic road passing thru beautiful cities. Read more Written May 24, 2023
  • seanmQ7622WG 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Exceeded expectations- amazing personalized guide Absolutely incredible tour that blew way our expectations. The private guide, Karl, was exactly what you’d hope for in a tour like this, offering his own insights, recommendations and extremely accommodating for unplanned pit stops, photo opportunities and food or bio breaks. Highly recommend this tour and urge you to request Karl. He takes it from a 10 to a 12/10. Read more Written May 1, 2023
  • 711mitram 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Breathless Punta Cana The staff, food, entertainment, restaurants, buffet, bars,swimming pools, the beach, I loved it,from Canada 🇨🇦 Read more Written January 9, 2023
  • jayneeveringham 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A fabulous way to get your understanding of Munich , the history the layout - fantastic Danielle our guide for the third reich tour was fantastic. She was so informative, helpful and gave our large group of 18 a wonderful Historical tour of Munich and was so informative about not just the events leading up to WWII but prior to and after that. Read more Written January 5, 2023
  • Chris D 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Good entertaining overview of Dinkelsbuhl and Rothenburg This tour was a very worthwhile way to see Rothenburg and Dinkelsbuhl if you don’t have time to stay in Rothenburg for a night or two. Our guide Armin was very friendly and entertaining. Sightseeing Bavaria were also very flexible in rescheduling our tour while we were in Munich after our original tour date had to move due to bad weather. I will certainly look at booking tours with Sightseeing Bavaria again in future. Read more Written December 17, 2022

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chiemsee castle tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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chiemsee castle tour

Herrenchiemsee Palace EXCLUSIVE Lake Chiemsee Tour with Salzburg or EAGLE'S NEST from Munich provided by Sightseeing Bavaria Exclusive

IMAGES

  1. Royal Castle of Herrenchiemsee Day Trip From Munich

    chiemsee castle tour

  2. GER Chiemsee [Aero~Herreninsel] JUL 2012 by KWOT

    chiemsee castle tour

  3. The New Palace

    chiemsee castle tour

  4. Herrenchiemsee Castle Tour, Chiemsee

    chiemsee castle tour

  5. Herrenchiemsee castle at the Chiemsee, castle of King Ludwig II of Stock Photo: 12388909

    chiemsee castle tour

  6. Chiemsee Castle which was built by King Ludwig in 1878 in Bavaria. There are some beautiful

    chiemsee castle tour

VIDEO

  1. Chiemsee #chiemsee #herrenchiemsee #bavarskomore

  2. CASTLE SIEGE EVENT

  3. A Day Trip to Beautiful Lake

  4. Tour auf den Hochfelln 1674m

  5. Visiting the New Castle Herrenchiemsee

  6. Radtour im Chiemsee-Alpenland: Radltour um Schechen

COMMENTS

  1. Bavarian Palace Administration

    You will find the carriage station approx. 150 m from the Visitor Information Centre in the direction of the New Palace. The carriages usually run from mid-April until the end of October (depending on the weather) between the landing stage and Herrenchiemsee New Palace (shuttle service). The trip takes approx. 15 minutes (one way).

  2. Bavarian Palace Administration

    Rooms on the ground floor. From the Northern Staircase the tour leads via a passage where the mechanism for the magic table in the dining room is installed on to the last two rooms, the Bathroom and the Robing Chamber. Official website of Herrenchiemsee Palace and Park.

  3. Herrenchiemsee Palace Tour and Lake Chiemsee Isles from Munich 2023

    Visit Herrenchiemsee Palace, modeled after the Palace of Versailles by King Ludwig II, on this guided, full-day tour from Munich. Escape to an island in Lake Chiemsee, Bavaria's largest lake, for a tour of the king's final and most expensive castle (entrance fee not included). Then continue by boat to the Benedictine abbey of Frauenwörth, located in the beautiful, unspoiled landscape at ...

  4. All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

    Private King Ludwig Tour to Herrenchiemsee Castle from Salzburg (From $681.55) Herrenchiemsee Palace and Fraueninsel Rail Trip from Munich (From $66.52) Private Herrenchiemsee Castle Tour from Munich with Cruise and Carriage Ride (From $669.94) 3 Day Private Tour Of Bavarian Highlights Including Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich (From $1,307.48)

  5. Castle Herrenchiemsee

    The splendid parade bedroom and the dining room with the famous " table deck dich " are among the other highlights of every guided tour of the palace. Old and New Castle on Herrenchiemsee. Herrenchiemsee is probably the only island in the world with two castles. In addition to the "New Palace" of King Ludwig II, there is also the ...

  6. 2024: Visit Schloss Herrenchiemsee Castle

    Like many other major tourist sights in Bavaria, Schloss Herrenchiemsee is open on Mondays. Opening hours are daily from April to mid-October from 9 am to 6 pm and from mid-October to March from 9:40 am to 4:15 pm. The last tours of the palace start an hour before closing time.

  7. Herrenchiemsee

    The castle can only be visited as part of a guided tour - times for tours in the various languages are allocated on purchase at the ticket office near the ferry station. The tour itself takes just over 30 minutes and afterwards there is an opportunity to visit the King Ludwig Museum, which documents the life of the monarch, on the ground floor.

  8. Ticketshop Schloss Herrenchiemsee

    The tour of the Herrenchiemsee New Palace is only possible as part of the booked guided tour. Unfortunately, it is not possible to take part in a guided tour at a later date. Please allow sufficient time for the walk from the jetty to the castle (min. 45 minutes).

  9. Herrenchiemsee Castle Trip from Munich

    Our Herrenchiemsee Castle Tour brings you to Bavaria's stunning lakeland Versailles, 'mad' King Ludwig II's sumptuous island palace. A boat trip to another world. Travel by train and boat to the "Herren" and "Frauen" islands on gorgeous lake Chiemsee, close to the Alps. Palaces, lakes, mountains: the full Bavarian experience.

  10. Herrenchiemsee Palace: a Bavarian take on Versailles

    Herrenchiemsee Palace. Taking inspiration from King Louis XIV of France, Bavaria's 'fairytale king' Ludwig II had a luxurious castle built on Herrenwörth Island in Lake Chiemsee in 1878. Unfortunately, he didn't live to see the finished result. King Ludwig II, the most enthusiastic admirer of the French 'Sun King', wanted to create a building ...

  11. Herrenchiemsee Palace: History and Visitor's Guide

    Herrenchiemsee Palace is a 19th century palace built on an island in the middle of Chiemsee, a lake near the Alps in Bavaria, Germany. Built by the infamous Fairy Tale King Ludwig II, the palace was an elaborate imitation and interpretation of Versailles built to be one of the king's many rural palaces. The palace remains unfinished, but ...

  12. Schloss Herrenchiemsee: King Ludwig II's copy of Versailles

    Combine a visit to Herrenchiemsee Castle with a walk on the picturesque Fraueninsel. Photo: Frank Stolle Just like Ludwig II's other castles, Herrenchiemsee Castle was not intended to serve as a seat of government. Photo: Frank Stolle If you travel by train, the journey from Munich main station to Prien am Chiemsee takes around one hour. Photo: Frank Stolle However, the Bavarian "Kini" only ...

  13. 2024 Herrenchiemsee Palace EXCLUSIVE Lake Chiemsee Tour ...

    Herrenchiemsee Palace EXCLUSIVE Lake Chiemsee Tour with Salzburg or EAGLE'S NEST from Munich cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. ... the bridge view is out of this world and a timed entry into the castle for the tour was perfect and not a long wait. A few of the rooms ...

  14. Herrenchiemsee Palace EXCLUSIVE Lake Chiemsee Tour with ...

    Enjoy an exclusive day at Bavaria's largest lake: The 80 sq km Chiemsee with its historical, cultural & scenic highlights offers an infinite wealth of unforgettable experiences - look forward to going with your professional and friendly tour guide on an entertaining, informative but above all relaxing discovery tour. First and foremost, is the largest and most expensive castle Herrenchiemsee ...

  15. Private Herrenchiemsee Castle Tour from Munich with Cruise 2024

    Check out the grand Herrenchiemsee Castle on a private day trip from Munich. After traveling to the banks of Lake Chiemsee, you'll cruise across the water to Herrenchiemsee Island where the sprawling castle estate is set. Switch to a horse-drawn carriage to travel in style to the gates, then take a guided tour of the premises and a lunch break before heading back to your Munich hotel.

  16. Herrenchiemsee

    Herrenchiemsee is a complex of royal buildings on Herreninsel, the largest island in the Chiemsee lake, in southern Bavaria, Germany.Together with the neighbouring isle of Frauenchiemsee and the uninhabited Krautinsel, it forms the municipality of Chiemsee, located about 60 kilometres (37 mi) southeast of Munich.. The island, formerly the site of an Augustinian monastery, was purchased by King ...

  17. Schedule a Tour

    Schedule a Tour - chiemseecastle.com

  18. Virtual Tour

    Virtual Tour - chiemseecastle.com