Build Review of LEGO Architecture Neuschwanstein Castle (21063)

Before we dive into our build review of LEGO Architecture Neuschwanstein Castle (21063), let's take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the finished build.

Nearly 3,500 pieces assemble to create not only Neuschwanstein Castle (a real-life 19th-century landmark in southern Germany) but also the Alpine foothill on which it stands.

It's a fantastic architectural LEGO centrepiece worthy of our custom Neuschwanstein Castle display case for LEGO 21063 - but is it fun to build?

What's in the box?

LEGO Architecture Neuschwanstein Castle (21063)

Price: $279.99

Release date: Available now

Pieces: 3,455

Age: 18+

Size: 31 x 46 x 20cm (H x W x D)

LEGO Insiders points: 1,820

Nearly 3,500 pieces are split into three groups: the rocky hillside, the trees and foliage, and the castle itself.

Although this is an 'adults welcome' LEGO Architecture display set, the castle does have some interiors, including the king's bedroom, study, throne room and hidden passages.

The 23-bag build begins with the base - the nameplate is the very first piece you assemble - and works up to the top of the castle's 213-foot Staircase Tower.

Finally, you add the trees to decorate the landscape surrounding the castle in summertime green or autumnal orange, which gives this set a really vibrant and natural feel at any time of year.

What's the build process like?

Despite all the details in the architecture, rock work and trees, the build process is really well documented in the assembly instructions. As usual, we think the 18+ age range of this set could easily include younger teenage builders - just be aware that it's more of a display piece than a play set.

Our build got off to a rough start, as the first base plate was bent and we had to straighten it before beginning. This wasn't a huge problem though as the pieces built onto it soon fixed any lingering curve in that first plate.

Beyond that, it was mostly plain sailing. Some steps are slightly more challenging or need some focus and attention, but the instructions are clear enough that the build never strays into confusion.

Our impressions of the build

Overall, this is a great build worthy of a real-world landmark. The building instructions booklet goes into some detail about the features of the castle, which adds some excellent context to the process of putting it all together.

The piece count is pretty high at 3,455, so it's no surprise that there are plenty of small parts that need to be fitted together, especially when assembling the trees and some of the most ornate architectural features.

We found that to be really rewarding, watching those parts come together to form larger features, and the construction is generally sturdy and well-designed, without too many fragile connections that could come loose.

What are the problem points?

There are no major problem points with this build, but if we had to pick out a few, the pointed tops of the towers seem to be the most likely pieces to fall off if the finished set gets knocked (another good reason to protect it inside the iDisplayit custom display case!).

Neuschwanstein Castle is asymmetrical in real life, and this set respects that. As a result, there are definitely moments when connecting the edge pieces to the rocky cliffs, where you need to check that you have the right piece aligned the right way.

Finally, the ability to change the colour of the leaves on the trees from green to autumnal oranges is a stunning extra detail, but it does take some time and attention to switch out every blossom piece on every branch. It's worth it though, as the final aesthetic is gorgeous.

Final Thoughts

We absolutely adore this set. It captures the asymmetry and ornate architecture of Neuschwanstein Castle perfectly, but it doesn't stop there.

The trees and hilltop setting transform a good build into a truly great one, and the nameplate on the base is the finishing touch to a beautiful display piece.

All that's left is to house your completed castle in our Neuschwanstein Castle display case for LEGO 21063, which is available with an optional printed background to help the set stand out even more on display.

Our Build Rating: 9/10

LEGO Store: LEGO Architecture Neuschwanstein Castle (21063)

Do you prefer the summer or autumn leaves on this set? Share your thoughts on the build process below.