Palace-fatigued visitors often head straight for the bus stop, coach park or nearest beer after a tour of the castles, most overlooking the worthwhile Museum der Bayerischen Könige (Museum of the Bavarian Kings; hohenschwangau.de/museum-der-bayerischen-koenige; adult/child €17/2.50), installed in a former lakeside hotel 400m from the castle ticket office (heading towards Alpsee lake). The architecturally stunning museum is packed with historical background on Bavaria's former first family and well worth the extra legwork.
The big-window views across the stunningly beautiful lake (a great picnic spot) to the Alps are almost as stunning as the Wittelsbach bling on show, including Ludwig II's famous blue-and-gold robe.
A detailed audioguide is included in the ticket price.
