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Readers Respond: Neuschwanstein - Tourist Trap or Must-See?

Responses: 5

By , About.com Guide

Some find it a dream come true, others think it's plain tacky. What's your opinion about Neuschwanstein castle in Bavaria, which was the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty castle in Disneyland? With 6,000 visitors a day, the castle is one of Germany's most popular attractions, but is it worth it? Let us know if Neuschwanstein is a must-see on your itinerary or just another tourist trap that you rather avoid. Share Your Opinion!

Don't take the horse-drawn carriages

Although it was a beautiful castle and a nice tour overall, there is some room for improvement. The castle is about a 20 minute walk (or more) uphill from the ticket office. For those who cannot walk (or don't want to) there is the option of taking the horse and carriage. I suggest you don't take it unless you are handicapped and absolutely cannot walk. These horses are overworked and exhausted (I have never seen a horse with their tongue hanging outside their mouth and struggling so hard to walk). They fit as many as 12 people on a carriage led by only two horses. These horses make numerous round trips, climbing huge hills so that people don't have to walk. Please, if you don't want to walk, maybe this isn't the trip for you.
—Lunamoone

Beautiful Place to Visit

I have to admit, I didn't actually tour the castle. I stayed in a hotel in town and found the town (and castle view) enchanting, especially in the evening when day trippers were gone. We did hike up to the castle and enjoyed the views and toured the other castle. I would say the area is definitely worth a visit, especially if you spend the night.
—bakerjian

you'll decide

I guess it is up to the individual traveler to decide whether this is a tourist trap or not. I was impressed by the castle's architecture and by the life of King Ludwig and would recommend visiting it if you are in Bavaria. I also visited the town of Fuessen, right next to Neuschwanstein, which has a charming Old Town and is a nice place to stroll and have a coffee.
—Guest jordan

trap

Yes, I think it is a tourist trap. I was there in summer, and it was just too crowded. I wish I would have come another time of year - maybe it won't be as crowded in winter or fall? The tour is interesting though, it offers historical information as well as fascinating tidbits about the King, a very interesting character.
—Guest germany-traveler

loved it!!!!

I have to be honest, I didn't take the official tour. I was there in summer and took the gondola up and hiked down to the castle (2 hours) Spectacular. I would like to visit the castle all four seasons.
—Guest Eddy do

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Neuschwanstein - Tourist Trap or Must-See?

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