Hi, my boyfriend and I will be in Munich next week, I was really excited about visiting the Neuschwanstein castle (well, mostly just the outside and surrounding view, as I heard the inside isn't that great), but read that most of the castle is covered in scaffolding for some construction. Does anyone know? If it is, is it still worth the trip out there? Thanks in advance!
You'll see a lot of debate on this forum about Neuschwanstein since it's not an "authentic medieval castle." But I think it's great--and the interior well worth a visit. I thought it was fun to see the over the top ostentation and one king's vision of a medieval fantasy. Just my two cents! I would consider it worth the trip even if there is some scaffolding.
Not including palaces like Herrenchiemsee and Linderhof, I've been in over a dozen castles in Germany and Austria, some like Neuschwanstein, relatively new, some, like the Reichsburg, recently rebuilt from the ruins of a previous castle, some, like the Marksburg, original. I think Neuschwanstein is as good as any. You have to remember that it was not a fortress, but the living quarters for a king, as were many others I have seen. Neuschwanstein has some unique and interesting features, like the intricately carved bed, or his study.
On any trip to Europe, you're likely to see some scaffolding on some big sight(s) you have been looking forward to seeing. It's just the luck of the draw, something you need to accept. Things are still worth seeing.
Check this website for (nearly) live webcam images: http://www.feratel.com/webcams-wetter/deutschland/fuessen.html It's a little hard to see, but it would appear the scaffolding is currently limited to the north face of the castle. This was the case the last time I visited there in October. The view from the bridge was unobstructed. As the last poster noted, on any given trip to Europe, you can count on at least one major landmark undergoing some kind of renovation. Like rain, adjust and adapt.
Hi Janey, We visited Neuschwanstein in May with Rick's GAS Tour and enjoyed it, both inside and out. It does have some scaffolding up, but the view from Mary's Bridge is still good and the surrounding countryside is beautiful. The side of the castle that is mostly covered is not the side you see from the bridge. Also, the highest tower is covered. I still think it worth a visit. I would recommend taking the shuttle up to the bridge (I think it was 3 euros) and walking back down to the castle.
Teri
I just wanted to thank everyone for urging us to go. We went yesterday, and it was absolutely beautiful! The castles, the waterfall, the lake, the swans, the view, the mountains, the trees, the horses.... all of it. Thanks again!