The courtyard gravel is deep and loose—rolling suitcases sink, high heels are destroyed. It's a "carry, don't roll" zone. The main parking lot (P9) fills by 10:00 AM on weekends. Parking meters may be COINS ONLY—carry €10 in change.
The Phantasialand Shuttle Trap
The branded shuttle buses at the station cost €5 and take you to a THEME PARK several km away. The palace is 3 MINUTES across the street—just walk. Do NOT board those buses.
The No-Photo Fortress
Unlike most German palaces, Augustusburg aggressively enforces a photo ban inside. Staff in EVERY room will reprimand you. Do not attempt it—you will disrupt the guided tour. Save your shots for the Mirror Pool outside, where the yellow Rococo façade reflects perfectly in the fountain basin. That's the UNESCO "money shot."
The Free Park Walk
Skip the €15 combo ticket—explore the entire 2.5km UNESCO garden axis from Augustusburg to Falkenlust for FREE. Only the interiors require tickets.
Mirror Pool Photo Spot
Stand at the southern end of the French Parterre facing north for the perfect reflection shot. Late afternoon light is best when the sun illuminates the yellow façade.
The Gravel Barrier
The courtyard has deep, historic crushed gravel. Standard wheelchair tires will struggle. High heels are a disaster. Bring stable shoes.
Bleibtreusee Escape
10-min drive to a forest lake with FREE swimming (parking fee only). After the formal palace, escape to a beach with water skiing and sun.
Most tourists never leave the courtyard. The 2.5km walk to Falkenlust is the true highlight—lined with ancient lime trees, water canals, and zero crowds. It costs nothing.
— The Hidden AxisPark at Falkenlust
Flip the script: park at the "Wanderparkplatz Falkenlust" at the quiet end of the estate. Start your day with a peaceful walk TOWARD the main palace. You'll avoid the station crowds and the 10 AM parking chaos at P9. It's also closer to the A553 autobahn exit for a faster departure.
Quick Facts
Tips for Travelers
The shuttle trap, the parking arbitrage, and the €0 garden experience.
Carry €10 in Coins
Older parking meters (P7, P9) are often COINS ONLY. Card readers fail. Do not rely on Apple Pay—it's a gamble you'll lose.
Avoid the Belvedere Lot (P7)
Has a 3-4 hour MAX limit designed for shoppers. A full castle+garden day takes 4-5 hours. You risk a ticket or tow.
The €0 Alternative
Skip the palace ticket. Walk the entire UNESCO garden system (French Parterre → Forest → Falkenlust exterior) for FREE. Only interiors cost money.
Wheelchair: Call Ahead
Augustusburg has partial lift access but you must call +49 2232 44000 to arrange upper floor access. Falkenlust is NOT accessible at all.
Dogs: Park Only
Leash mandatory in the gardens. Dogs are STRICTLY FORBIDDEN inside the palace buildings.
Skip Brühler Wirtshaus at Lunch
The station restaurant is a logistical trap—20 min for a menu, 45 min for beer during peak season. Food is good, wait is brutal.