Neuschwannstein perhaps makes more sense if you 'get' the story of the guy who built it, IMO. He was perhaps a bit mad, but more likely he was just a naive entitled dreamer with too much money. (and probably homosexual, which was taboo then, and explains the way he was ultimately treated by his contemporaries). He was actually quite well liked by the locals apparently as he was friendly and loyal to his locality. Ironically, they arrested him for spending too much money, but the castle has ultimately paid for itself many times over in tourism over the years (though if he had lived, he would never have allowed it to become a tourist attraction). The castle is clearly a modern building by castle standards, but is the product of a very particular romantic and idealistic mindset. It is unique because no-one will (or should) ever be able to build something like it again - it kind of bridges the ancient with the modern. I found it fascinating as it also links the old world with things like the growth of national socialism and the false romanticism that fed it - Wagner etc. But yes, it is quite touristy!. Germany is such a great destination with a van though, and the cycling/walking there is just fab. (We stayed there last year - was excellent)
He wasn't really disliked because of sexuality but rather because he spent more time living in dream world that didn't exist instead of actually governing the kingdom and doing his job as a king. Back then most people saw his buildings as a waste of money. Neuschwansteincastle isn't modern by castle standards. At the time it was one most technologically advanced buildings in the world and is really young, the construction started as recently as 1869 and was opened in 1886. He was obsessed with absolutism akin to that of Louis XIV of France which upset people even more. We are only now grateful for his buildings and that we had him because these buildings attract so much tourism and look great in advertisments for Bavarian companies. All in all he wasn't a very competent ruler. It is also still unsure wether he was murdered or if it was suicide. My bet is one murder because it's almost impossible to drown yourself in knee-level water, and he also wasn't alone when it happened soooo. The House of Wittelsbach did not have good relations with the nazis and in fact was hunted by them.
@@RealWolfHraban Interesting perspective. He was a patron of Wagner (who also thought him naive, but happily took his patronage), so i guess from an outsiders perspective his iconography seems to be associated with Naziism, but presumably this is a modern association and not based in the contemporary reality of his era?
@@philw4625 it's a fact that the nazi sort of kidnapped monarchist and medieval imagery. That is is also why some people think that the iron cross (which our military still uses to this day) was a Nazi symbol and confuse the Nazi uniforms with both the modern uniform and Imperial (world war 1) uniform. It also makes sense for these to look similar as all of them are indeed German. But sadly nowadays whenever someone sees things that are in that style they just assume that it is a Nazi thing and try to get it cancelled or try to sue it for hate speech. And I don't want to point fingers but it usually is privileged college students that don't know/ignore the actual history or the media in hopes of finding a new drama to make money by spreading straight up false information.
@@RealWolfHraban Indeed. A nuanced and balanced understanding of history in all its complexity is surely more likely to prevent future mischief than absolute denial/rejection/demonisation? (or worse still, revisionism). Safe to say the castle is an interesting 'folly' that is worth a visit if you find history interesting, and its in such a beautiful part of the world.
Well, Neuschwanstein was completed in 1886, so it is not really an "old" historic castle. I mean, that's long after the industrial revolution has begun in Europe. The days of knights were long gone... King Ludwig II of Bavaria has build this castle in honour of Richard Wagner. Basically it is a "themed" building, like some hotels in Las Vegas nowadays. So you can say it was the first of its kind and above all it served as a role model for Disney.
In another Video someone used the word "Palace" as a translation for "Schloß" and while this translation is not really correct i think it fits more. A "Burg" is a military building and it looks like that, not really nice, but effective against enemies. A "Schloß" has no military purpose at all and it looks like that, a more or less impressive building which is (maybe temporary) the home of someone important and because of this i would call Neuschwanstein to be rather a Palace and not a Castle.
@@BerndFunken That's actually the problem in the English language, castle has two definitions: -the medieval fortress and residence of the lord. -palaces/mansions made to "look like" castles or an idealized version of castles in the middle ages, generally from the 19th century with the advent of the neo-gothic and romanesque architectures. It's easy to be disappointed if you don't know what you're looking for. Most "castles" you can visit in Europe (especially in England and Germany) are actually from the second category, mock castles, but maybe not always as obviously as for Neuschwanstein. Windsor for example is also a palace now, only formerly a castle 500 years ago, and totally rebuilt over the years only keeping some false defensive features for "aesthetics". I like Neuschwanstein because it helped shaping the modern aesthetics of our old European fairy tales.
I absolutely LOVED visiting this castle! Me and my friend hitchhiked from Slovakia, camped under the castle with amazing view, took a hike up (a lot of cows on the way and almost no people). Ofc when we got up it was packed with people but once we got up the hill (after crossing the bridge) we got an amzing view and there were like 5 people more. Amazing. Then we took a path (official one no worries) through to the woods to Alpsee, again zero people. Everything is just a point of view :)
Agreed, everything is a point of view. If only the youtubing couple made it sound like a point of view as well, instead of an absolute. Honestly prefer your version.
My visit to Neuschwanstein was the highlight of my visit to the area, i stayed in the near by town of Fussen, and just loved the whole area, but no doubt the highlight of my trip was the guided tour of the castle..............................Just loved the place!!
Fun fact concerning Neuschwanstein: At the time it was built, it was the most modern building of Germany and one of the most modern in the world: Full electricity, full plumming system... And yes, as castle it's fake. That's what you call "historicism".
Maybe the problem is also the English language: what they expected because of the term "castle". "Castle" can mean the medieval fortress+residence of the lord, but it can also mean those 19th century palaces that were made to look like castles, in an idealized vision of the middle ages. You don't have to like both the two versions of what a "castle" can end up being. But if that's the case, they just don't like non-medieval castles, that is to say... MOST castles you'll ever see that aren't ruins (sadly). Burg Eltz is also mostly a recent product, despite being originally a medieval castle it was changed dramatically over the years. Personally, I like the idea behind Neuschwanstein, the fairy tale building it's supposed to be. And I don't understand why they didn't even enter it, the interior is a real dream.
If you did your research, you would have known much of it was a facade. Going to a tourist trap simply because it is a tourist trap is bound to be a disappointment. I have been to this castle three times, and find it fascinating as a part of the Bavarian scene and Bavarian history. The view from there is gorgeous!
I agree! I visited there and it was magnificent. Like a dream. The inside was so amazing with secret doorways and the history and stories of King Ludwig. Ball rooms, bed chambers, the cave room....I didn’t want to leave. 🙈I hope to visit again as it’s my fav place in the world! 🏰❤️
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but as others have mentioned, you need to go inside and get the history of the castle. It is technically a modern castle which is probably why it feels kitschy? I loved the tour and getting the history of the castle and life of Kind Ludwig. It made it worth it. I hope people don't pass up visiting the castle just because it looks too new.
I went there last January and was amazed by its beauty. I absolutely loved the path to the castle, the view from Mary's Bridge is breathtaking. Must visit!
I visited this incredible site in 1972. And going through it was mind blowing. I couldn't believe the incredible workmanship, it took the better part of the day and still could have spent longer. I will always remember this. I was trying to see all his castles..so totally different. Still have my walking stick with crest from here. I'm so glad I did it...
You have to look at Neuschwanstein for what it is. His parent's castle (Hohenschwangau) is the yellow one down below, and that's where he grew up. Ludwig designed Neuschwanstein as his own fairytale version of a modern castle, and it's really not that old compared to others. One of my favorite areas in my favorite country to visit.
It feels so good he lived in Castle Hohenschwangau which was build by his father...And then when he grew up He build Neuschwanstein Castle which is double the size of Hohenschwangau.
I loved it so much that I plan to go back to Germany just to visit it again. I went there in winter. And it just made me feel inside a fairytale castle in winter wonderland.
My wife and I visited the castle last year. I tend to agree that it is somewhat underwhelming in some aspects. It's location is epic. I agree that it looks better from a distance. I will say that I was amazed/impressed with how they constructed it. We are from Australia so any castle/palace is just mindblowing to us. Great video guys! Hope to be back in Europe next year. We are hoping to experience our first white Christmas. 😉👍
I have been to the castle twice. I agree with you that it is beautiful from afar but I totally enjoyed the inside of the castle and was in awe of the interior and the furniture.
I just visited the 2 castles built by King Ludwig II. Neuschwanstein Castle is to be appreciated from the exterior. For the opulent and ornate interior, Linderhof Palace at Ettal , where the King lived, offers more astounding and exquisite treasures.
I lived in Southern Germany for four years, but never visited Neuschwanstein Castle. I no longer feel any regret for that omission. Thank you Alex. Another wonderful video.
Because of your vligs we are in Bavaria atm. Thanks for a great idea! We travel with a tent so hopefully you can tell us the name of the campsite in the end of your vlog. Looks stunning! Thanks again for reminding us how beautiful the world is!
Loving the B Roll footage music! Yeah, the castle seems like it would be underwhelming close up due to the fact it's not that old and is looking more and more like what it inspired in Disneyland. Keep up the honesty! We love it!
My personal favourite castles in Germany: 1. Burg Hohenzollern (Baden Württemberg) 2. Wartburg (Eisenach) 3. Burg Eltz 4. Reichsburg Cochem 5. Löwenburg (Kassel) and jup Neuschwanstein is overrated ;)
Funny, but this list is a bunch of fantasy castles just like Neuschwanstein and 19th centuries reconstructions with varying degrees of authenticity :). But that's just how it is, an actual authentic medieval castle which is not a ruin is hard to find. If they stayed in use of the centuries they have seen extensive remodelling and often complete rebuilds on the old location over the centuries. If they didn't stay in use they ended up as ruins (some of those were used in the 19th century "reconstructions" I mentioned above).
As a local I can tell you that it will still have the same "new" look in probably 100 years.. why ? The castle is getting "resurfaced" on a regular basis ! Our weather here is extreme. In the Winter we have up to -30° nighttime, and 20°+ on the daytime, including sudden changes between snow, ice, rain, hail and intense sun/uv
The big reason it might look tacky is because it reminds you of theme park fantasy castles but that's because this is what those are based off of. Back in the 19th century this would have looked unique and spectacular. Also by this time the meaning of castle had shifted to include palaces, fortifications were largely obsolete due to canons.
The beach in Nha Trang, Vietnam was underwhelming. That was supposed to be the tropical spot in my trip there in 2009. Water was not clear, and there was even some trash in the water outside of the beach resorts. But Vietnam in general was a fantastic trip and I hope to see you guys vlog there someday after Covid. It is missing from your Asia collection.
I am surprised you guys said this about the castle as I remembered it soooo beautifully! I loved it a ton! So I guess to each his own as they say? Most under-rated place was Donny (Doncaster) England lol There was a few ladies hanging out in their pajamas in front of our hotel in the morning by the front door of a Travel Lodge 😂😂
I think what I loved about the castle is the story behind it. I’ve actually been lucky enough to visit it 3 times and I live the town of Fusen that is right there. It looks like you may have missed the rodelbahn too. That was a lot of fun.
I've seen most of Baden Wurtenberg castles and i can tell you they are all clean, and not just castles, but the houses and everything to perfection. At least they try to. My apsolute favorite was in litlle town called Sigmaringen.
Ach, ANOTHER Boomer touring the world vicariously through the eyes of someone younger. My parents+ and I toured this area and those castles 60 years ago whilst living in France, ...my father+ was American military. I would love to go back to France and Germany.
One of my favorite castles in all of Germany. It probably looks all shiny new because it just underwent a major renovation. Still, if that castle is not your "cup of tea", try going a few towns over ( Pfronton?) and visit two castle ruins, Hohenfreyburg and Eisenberg. Better yet, drive into Austria and check our the Ehrenburg castle ruin complex.
I agreeeeee!!! It looks like a fairy tale from far but up close is just... 👌 OK 🆗. 😂. But we still loved everything about that trip to the Bavarian I still can't believe I did not tried the 🥨 pretzels!!! A grest excuse to go back!! 🤣
Lol! I was quite dissappointed with Neuschwanstein. Very short tour for the long wait. The area around it and the view is stunning though. So happy you enjoyed your time in my home country!
Thanks for the real take on the castle. Just curious, where did you rent your bikes and is it easy to find the pathways along the lake and up to the castles? Can you take the bikes up to the castle? You parked and walked so I'm not sure if this is allowed. Thanks!
I think along with the "relative" (when dealing with castles) recency of completion, the constant upkeep to the foundations and supports would also add to the feeling of "newness." This would be inevitable considering it's a giant attraction for tourism and must be maintained.
Alex always give you honest opinion that is why I keep coming back to watch your videos. There are plenty of CZcamsrs that will always say "Everything is Awesome". When you and Emma say it I actually believe you. Keep up the great work 👍
A great international / European breakfast! I'm on the Italian side of the mountains. I went to the grocery store today, and purchased a kilo of 20 month aged Grana Padano cheese and 2 kilos of apples. Yum!
The only place where my (Frank) expectations were underwhelmed was the torture museum in Bruges. It looked more like a walk in the park rather than the dungeon of misery and pain that I was expecting. Oh well. Every other place was awesome! We’re anxious to return to Europe.
Two thumbs up !!! You looked like a pro. on the bike Emma. " There was a clip on our news last night....This guy was steeling this bike and it was chained to a bike stand....He could not get the bike lock off so he took the bike and the bike stand and all " !!! Cheers and best wishes from Canada.
Neuschwannstein is gorgeous! Particularly on the outside. It's was never finished inside but that's ok. If you want to see something better internally, go to his other place Herrenchiemsee, it's a tribute to Versailles.. Beautiful.
We visited Neuschwanstein last year, I felt the same, super commercialized, long line ups, however what you do get to see is amazing. I think the smaller off the beaten track castles offer a more medieval experience, Burg Eltz for example......gorgeous!!
Super late comment and I don't know if you will see it, but do you have a list of the places you stayed with the campervan in Bavaria? Or are they all shown in each video? Trying to make a list, ty!
Germans eat yogurt and continental which consists of slices of ham, cheese, bread, jam, butter and soft boiled egg. Sometimes granola, that’s typical. I’ve been to the castle several times yes there are lots of tourists but It’s not that old built by crazy Ludwig to resemble an old castle. I personally loved it but most of the interior wasn’t finished. It was built more for the location.
Nice thing about a travel vlog with a couple is that there is always one food choice that I go: fries with sausage omg don't eat that! and one food choice I can actually relate to 🍲😋
What a beautiful camping spot and what a breakfast! I would be nervous too but Emma looks pretty confident riding her bike. While my family would probably also love to cycle around Germany a bit I have found in my adult years that my arse is not built for a bicycle seat! My family and I totally agree that the Neuschwanstein experience was a bit of a disappointment. It was truly stunning in architecture and grandeur, especially on the inside, but way too crowded for our liking. We couldn't get a ride up the hill because everything was full so we had to hike up. It was so hot and tiring... which meant that none of us were happy campers by the time we finally arrived at the top. We missed seeing the Alpsee. It looks quite lovely. Perhaps someday we will go back to see it and Hohenschwangau. Loved the video! Now off to get caught up on more Travel Bean videos!
Local(ish) here, fun to go there just to watch all the tourists. Nothing wrong with going there though, just expect it to be popular. There used to be more hidden gems but now with staycation it's pretty busy all over the alps (at least compared to what it used to be).
It’s in the end also just a fantasy building of King Ludwig II., thus he might apply the same criticism to it. If you want authentic castles you have to visit other places like Burghausen, Eltz Castle etc.
This was the most English breakfast made from German ingredients that I have ever seen! I don't know why, but I always think of these hobbits when I see such lovely Brits preparing their breakfast... 🥰
Oh no:( that sucks you guys but I totally see what you mean just from the close ups on the video. However your shooting is lovely so, safe to assume it’s still a cool travel plan? (Bavaria in general)
Good Alex You Found Your Wurst. I hope its Not the Last. Knackwurst my Favorite. Found in the North. Find Kongich Ludwig Weiss Beir . Make Ya See Double!!!! Way To Go Emma!!!! Born to be Wild!!!!!
It looks really nice from Mary's bridge, where so many photos have been taken of it,very pretty view of the castle from there, but yes up closer not as impressive.
I love visiting castles in the UK! You have so many amazing castles there 😍 I never visited Neuschwanstein and probably never will 😅 But Burg Hohenzollern is another famous castle in Germany and I think it’s pretty nice to visit.
Haha. RE forgetting how to cycle... I haven't swam for like 20 years, and I'm genuniely frightened to now. I was a strong swimmer as a kid but I'm terrified I've forgotten how to do it, lol. I'll just make sure not to jump into the deep to find out, haha.
About you forgetting cycling there is something called "memory muscle"( or something like that) basically your muscles remember activities you used to do . beautiful scenery .sorry for any mistakes English is not my mother tongue.
Going under the channel tunnel when it first opened so underwhelming don't know what I really expected but everybody seem to be raving about it at the time.
Your breakfast is really funny for me to see. 🤣 This is part of an English breakfast made of German ingredients, which we would never eat for breakfast except the eggs. 😉 But I already used the Nürnberger sausage when I prepare Scottish breakfast, because the typical britisch breakfast sausage is not available here. When you want something similar to Hash browns you could look for Kartoffelrösti. But this is not breakfast for us. 🤣 Thank you for this lovely report. When I stood in front of the castle some years ago, I had the same disappointed feelings like you. But the area around is outstanding.
I agree about Neuschwanstein Castle, same as Hohenschwangau Castle. The interiors were okay, but only saw a few rooms during the tour. I went the during the month of September a few years ago, not a lot of people back then. I kinda like the smaller Linderhof Palace better. I stayed at Innsbruck near the border with Austria, awesome place.
I'm German, been to the area three times. I agree : to much hype about this castle, too many people. Been in it once that was nice, never will go in again. I'm keep coming back to that area for hiking, the nature, Food in those little Alms/lodges in the forest where you get traditional Bavarian food.
Neuschwannstein perhaps makes more sense if you 'get' the story of the guy who built it, IMO. He was perhaps a bit mad, but more likely he was just a naive entitled dreamer with too much money. (and probably homosexual, which was taboo then, and explains the way he was ultimately treated by his contemporaries). He was actually quite well liked by the locals apparently as he was friendly and loyal to his locality. Ironically, they arrested him for spending too much money, but the castle has ultimately paid for itself many times over in tourism over the years (though if he had lived, he would never have allowed it to become a tourist attraction). The castle is clearly a modern building by castle standards, but is the product of a very particular romantic and idealistic mindset. It is unique because no-one will (or should) ever be able to build something like it again - it kind of bridges the ancient with the modern. I found it fascinating as it also links the old world with things like the growth of national socialism and the false romanticism that fed it - Wagner etc. But yes, it is quite touristy!. Germany is such a great destination with a van though, and the cycling/walking there is just fab. (We stayed there last year - was excellent)
It’s still pretty meh for a castle history.
He wasn't really disliked because of sexuality but rather because he spent more time living in dream world that didn't exist instead of actually governing the kingdom and doing his job as a king. Back then most people saw his buildings as a waste of money. Neuschwansteincastle isn't modern by castle standards. At the time it was one most technologically advanced buildings in the world and is really young, the construction started as recently as 1869 and was opened in 1886. He was obsessed with absolutism akin to that of Louis XIV of France which upset people even more.
We are only now grateful for his buildings and that we had him because these buildings attract so much tourism and look great in advertisments for Bavarian companies.
All in all he wasn't a very competent ruler.
It is also still unsure wether he was murdered or if it was suicide. My bet is one murder because it's almost impossible to drown yourself in knee-level water, and he also wasn't alone when it happened soooo.
The House of Wittelsbach did not have good relations with the nazis and in fact was hunted by them.
@@RealWolfHraban Interesting perspective. He was a patron of Wagner (who also thought him naive, but happily took his patronage), so i guess from an outsiders perspective his iconography seems to be associated with Naziism, but presumably this is a modern association and not based in the contemporary reality of his era?
@@philw4625 it's a fact that the nazi sort of kidnapped monarchist and medieval imagery. That is is also why some people think that the iron cross (which our military still uses to this day) was a Nazi symbol and confuse the Nazi uniforms with both the modern uniform and Imperial (world war 1) uniform. It also makes sense for these to look similar as all of them are indeed German. But sadly nowadays whenever someone sees things that are in that style they just assume that it is a Nazi thing and try to get it cancelled or try to sue it for hate speech. And I don't want to point fingers but it usually is privileged college students that don't know/ignore the actual history or the media in hopes of finding a new drama to make money by spreading straight up false information.
@@RealWolfHraban Indeed. A nuanced and balanced understanding of history in all its complexity is surely more likely to prevent future mischief than absolute denial/rejection/demonisation? (or worse still, revisionism). Safe to say the castle is an interesting 'folly' that is worth a visit if you find history interesting, and its in such a beautiful part of the world.
Well, Neuschwanstein was completed in 1886, so it is not really an "old" historic castle. I mean, that's long after the industrial revolution has begun in Europe. The days of knights were long gone... King Ludwig II of Bavaria has build this castle in honour of Richard Wagner. Basically it is a "themed" building, like some hotels in Las Vegas nowadays. So you can say it was the first of its kind and above all it served as a role model for Disney.
It even has electric lamps build in by King Ludwig
Well, Neuschwanstein isn't complete, there is one part not constructed, after King Ludwig death.
In another Video someone used the word "Palace" as a translation for "Schloß" and while this translation is not really correct i think it fits more. A "Burg" is a military building and it looks like that, not really nice, but effective against enemies. A "Schloß" has no military purpose at all and it looks like that, a more or less impressive building which is (maybe temporary) the home of someone important and because of this i would call Neuschwanstein to be rather a Palace and not a Castle.
@@BerndFunken That's actually the problem in the English language, castle has two definitions:
-the medieval fortress and residence of the lord.
-palaces/mansions made to "look like" castles or an idealized version of castles in the middle ages, generally from the 19th century with the advent of the neo-gothic and romanesque architectures.
It's easy to be disappointed if you don't know what you're looking for. Most "castles" you can visit in Europe (especially in England and Germany) are actually from the second category, mock castles, but maybe not always as obviously as for Neuschwanstein. Windsor for example is also a palace now, only formerly a castle 500 years ago, and totally rebuilt over the years only keeping some false defensive features for "aesthetics".
I like Neuschwanstein because it helped shaping the modern aesthetics of our old European fairy tales.
And I guess, they weren't even inside.
I absolutely LOVED visiting this castle!
Me and my friend hitchhiked from Slovakia, camped under the castle with amazing view, took a hike up (a lot of cows on the way and almost no people). Ofc when we got up it was packed with people but once we got up the hill (after crossing the bridge) we got an amzing view and there were like 5 people more. Amazing. Then we took a path (official one no worries) through to the woods to Alpsee, again zero people.
Everything is just a point of view :)
Sounds like an amazing trip!😍
Agreed, everything is a point of view. If only the youtubing couple made it sound like a point of view as well, instead of an absolute. Honestly prefer your version.
I 💗 this castle ... like a Dream w a very sad story. Beautiful art !!!
My visit to Neuschwanstein was the highlight of my visit to the area, i stayed in the near by town of Fussen, and just loved the whole area, but no doubt the highlight of my trip was the guided tour of the castle..............................Just loved the place!!
Fun fact concerning Neuschwanstein: At the time it was built, it was the most modern building of Germany and one of the most modern in the world: Full electricity, full plumming system... And yes, as castle it's fake. That's what you call "historicism".
Maybe the problem is also the English language: what they expected because of the term "castle". "Castle" can mean the medieval fortress+residence of the lord, but it can also mean those 19th century palaces that were made to look like castles, in an idealized vision of the middle ages. You don't have to like both the two versions of what a "castle" can end up being.
But if that's the case, they just don't like non-medieval castles, that is to say... MOST castles you'll ever see that aren't ruins (sadly). Burg Eltz is also mostly a recent product, despite being originally a medieval castle it was changed dramatically over the years.
Personally, I like the idea behind Neuschwanstein, the fairy tale building it's supposed to be. And I don't understand why they didn't even enter it, the interior is a real dream.
If you did your research, you would have known much of it was a facade. Going to a tourist trap simply because it is a tourist trap is bound to be a disappointment. I have been to this castle three times, and find it fascinating as a part of the Bavarian scene and Bavarian history. The view from there is gorgeous!
So wait.... You're critical of a castle that you never entered?
Yes the inside is amazing!
Exactly
I agree! I visited there and it was magnificent. Like a dream. The inside was so amazing with secret doorways and the history and stories of King Ludwig. Ball rooms, bed chambers, the cave room....I didn’t want to leave. 🙈I hope to visit again as it’s my fav place in the world! 🏰❤️
I agree
I've been inside. It's kitschy shit.
OMG! How breathtaking beautiful! Give me countryside any day over a big city!
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion but as others have mentioned, you need to go inside and get the history of the castle. It is technically a modern castle which is probably why it feels kitschy? I loved the tour and getting the history of the castle and life of Kind Ludwig. It made it worth it. I hope people don't pass up visiting the castle just because it looks too new.
I went there last January and was amazed by its beauty. I absolutely loved the path to the castle, the view from Mary's Bridge is breathtaking. Must visit!
I have always loved the castle since my childhood days. Linderhof is breathtakingly beautiful too - especially inside. You get blinded by gold.
Did you go in? I thought that main castle was unbelievably cool inside. The oldest family castle was nice, but loved the newer one.
I visited this incredible site in 1972. And going through it was mind blowing. I couldn't believe the incredible workmanship, it took the better part of the day and still could have spent longer. I will always remember this. I was trying to see all his castles..so totally different. Still have my walking stick with crest from here. I'm so glad I did it...
I love your (plural) honesty; keep it up! As for the natural scenery...this will be among my top 10 of your videos. ❤️
You have to look at Neuschwanstein for what it is. His parent's castle (Hohenschwangau) is the yellow one down below, and that's where he grew up. Ludwig designed Neuschwanstein as his own fairytale version of a modern castle, and it's really not that old compared to others.
One of my favorite areas in my favorite country to visit.
It feels so good he lived in Castle Hohenschwangau which was build by his father...And then when he grew up He build Neuschwanstein Castle which is double the size of Hohenschwangau.
BTW guys, I m a new subscriber who discovered you through Eric and Alison's vlog, but I am loving what I see so far!
We LOVE your honesty! Keep it up! We love your Vlogs! ❤️
We just love the drone shots!
Wow! You guys look so happy. That's great to see. Thanks for sharing another wunderbar destination. That water looked amazing!
I loved it so much that I plan to go back to Germany just to visit it again. I went there in winter. And it just made me feel inside a fairytale castle in winter wonderland.
Aww, loved this one, you guys! "That's my favourite colour of water" was so sweet, haha - looking forward to the next video
Wonderful scenery. Love you guys and always look forward to your next blog. 😊
Way to go Alex! Much respect for your honesty even as you knew you would get flack. Just made your channel stronger imo.
My wife and I visited the castle last year. I tend to agree that it is somewhat underwhelming in some aspects. It's location is epic. I agree that it looks better from a distance. I will say that I was amazed/impressed with how they constructed it. We are from Australia so any castle/palace is just mindblowing to us. Great video guys! Hope to be back in Europe next year. We are hoping to experience our first white Christmas. 😉👍
Try visit Eltz castle next time! It looks stunning and is about 800 years older than Neuschwanstein castle!❤️
I love that you cycled around....great perspective 😊❤️
I have been to the castle twice. I agree with you that it is beautiful from afar but I totally enjoyed the inside of the castle and was in awe of the interior and the furniture.
Just found your channel and loved to find someone honest about your own perception!!! 🙌
I just visited the 2 castles built by King Ludwig II. Neuschwanstein Castle is to be appreciated from the exterior. For the opulent and ornate interior, Linderhof Palace at Ettal , where the King lived, offers more astounding and exquisite treasures.
I lived in Southern Germany for four years, but never visited Neuschwanstein Castle. I no longer feel any regret for that omission. Thank you Alex. Another wonderful video.
Because of your vligs we are in Bavaria atm. Thanks for a great idea! We travel with a tent so hopefully you can tell us the name of the campsite in the end of your vlog. Looks stunning! Thanks again for reminding us how beautiful the world is!
You have such beautiful footage of the area 😃👍 Well done
Loving the B Roll footage music! Yeah, the castle seems like it would be underwhelming close up due to the fact it's not that old and is looking more and more like what it inspired in Disneyland. Keep up the honesty! We love it!
I'd have crashed into a tree on the bike from gawking at all those gorgeous mountains!! Wow ❤
My personal favourite castles in Germany:
1. Burg Hohenzollern (Baden Württemberg)
2. Wartburg (Eisenach)
3. Burg Eltz
4. Reichsburg Cochem
5. Löwenburg (Kassel)
and jup Neuschwanstein is overrated ;)
Also Ronneburg and Frankenstein (yes that Frankenstein)
Funny, but this list is a bunch of fantasy castles just like Neuschwanstein and 19th centuries reconstructions with varying degrees of authenticity :).
But that's just how it is, an actual authentic medieval castle which is not a ruin is hard to find. If they stayed in use of the centuries they have seen extensive remodelling and often complete rebuilds on the old location over the centuries. If they didn't stay in use they ended up as ruins (some of those were used in the 19th century "reconstructions" I mentioned above).
@@darmokVtS Frankenstein is an authentic ruin though
Hohenzollern castle is 19th century historism as well. It's more authentic than Neuschwanstein, but that's not saying much
@@darmokVtS Burg Eltz is not. It was built in the 11th century.
I love your channel. Great content!
As a local I can tell you that it will still have the same "new" look in probably 100 years.. why ? The castle is getting "resurfaced" on a regular basis !
Our weather here is extreme. In the Winter we have up to -30° nighttime, and 20°+ on the daytime, including sudden changes between snow, ice, rain, hail and intense sun/uv
The big reason it might look tacky is because it reminds you of theme park fantasy castles but that's because this is what those are based off of. Back in the 19th century this would have looked unique and spectacular. Also by this time the meaning of castle had shifted to include palaces, fortifications were largely obsolete due to canons.
The beach in Nha Trang, Vietnam was underwhelming. That was supposed to be the tropical spot in my trip there in 2009. Water was not clear, and there was even some trash in the water outside of the beach resorts. But Vietnam in general was a fantastic trip and I hope to see you guys vlog there someday after Covid. It is missing from your Asia collection.
I am surprised you guys said this about the castle as I remembered it soooo beautifully! I loved it a ton! So I guess to each his own as they say? Most under-rated place was Donny (Doncaster) England lol There was a few ladies hanging out in their pajamas in front of our hotel in the morning by the front door of a Travel Lodge 😂😂
You guys are awesome! New subscriber from new york😃
Love that you call it as you see it !
I think what I loved about the castle is the story behind it. I’ve actually been lucky enough to visit it 3 times and I live the town of Fusen that is right there. It looks like you may have missed the rodelbahn too. That was a lot of fun.
I've seen most of Baden Wurtenberg castles and i can tell you they are all clean, and not just castles, but the houses and everything to perfection. At least they try to. My apsolute favorite was in litlle town called Sigmaringen.
As I have said in previous video......Thank You.....Thank You for letting this 60YO see the world and this absolutely beautiful country!
Ach, ANOTHER Boomer touring the world vicariously through the eyes of someone younger. My parents+ and I toured this area and those castles 60 years ago whilst living in France, ...my father+ was American military. I would love to go back to France and Germany.
did you go into the castle or just look around outside?
I wish i'd have done this when i was your age with someone that would have loved it as much as i do now!
I appreciate your honesty!
One of my favorite castles in all of Germany. It probably looks all shiny new because it just underwent a major renovation. Still, if that castle is not your "cup of tea", try going a few towns over ( Pfronton?) and visit two castle ruins, Hohenfreyburg and Eisenberg. Better yet, drive into Austria and check our the Ehrenburg castle ruin complex.
So nice to see....you have many fun in germany :-)
I agreeeeee!!! It looks like a fairy tale from far but up close is just... 👌 OK 🆗. 😂.
But we still loved everything about that trip to the Bavarian
I still can't believe I did not tried the 🥨 pretzels!!! A grest excuse to go back!! 🤣
For those interested, I just uploaded a Nueschwanstein travel guide video with updates regarding the pandemic. That's it, take care everyone. Cheers!
Lol! I was quite dissappointed with Neuschwanstein. Very short tour for the long wait. The area around it and the view is stunning though. So happy you enjoyed your time in my home country!
Well not that much to show, given that only a fraction of the interior was ever finished.
We were there and you are right, can not fault , it is so beautiful, and land worth fighting for.
Thanks for the real take on the castle. Just curious, where did you rent your bikes and is it easy to find the pathways along the lake and up to the castles? Can you take the bikes up to the castle? You parked and walked so I'm not sure if this is allowed. Thanks!
Beautiful views 🥰
Laughing at the cart driver on his mobile phone at 5:18 ... I guess the horses know the way hey?
I really enjoy watching your videos, keep them coming!
I think along with the "relative" (when dealing with castles) recency of completion, the constant upkeep to the foundations and supports would also add to the feeling of "newness." This would be inevitable considering it's a giant attraction for tourism and must be maintained.
Alex always give you honest opinion that is why I keep coming back to watch your videos. There are plenty of CZcamsrs that will always say "Everything is Awesome". When you and Emma say it I actually believe you. Keep up the great work 👍
really? they based their opinion on a castle they couldn't afford to enter, let alone hire a bike!
Thank you for sharing ❤️
A great international / European breakfast! I'm on the Italian side of the mountains. I went to the grocery store today, and purchased a kilo of 20 month aged Grana Padano cheese and 2 kilos of apples. Yum!
The only place where my (Frank) expectations were underwhelmed was the torture museum in Bruges. It looked more like a walk in the park rather than the dungeon of misery and pain that I was expecting. Oh well. Every other place was awesome! We’re anxious to return to Europe.
Sooo picturesque 🙏💕🌿
Two thumbs up !!! You looked like a pro. on the bike Emma. " There was a clip on our news last night....This guy was steeling this bike and it was chained to a bike stand....He could not get the bike lock off so he took the bike and the bike stand and all " !!! Cheers and best wishes from Canada.
Neuschwannstein is gorgeous! Particularly on the outside. It's was never finished inside but that's ok. If you want to see something better internally, go to his other place Herrenchiemsee, it's a tribute to Versailles.. Beautiful.
We visited Neuschwanstein last year, I felt the same, super commercialized, long line ups, however what you do get to see is amazing. I think the smaller off the beaten track castles offer a more medieval experience, Burg Eltz for example......gorgeous!!
Enjoying your adventures. I'm a Texan who had a 10 day Germany trip planned for Sept 2020 :(
Super late comment and I don't know if you will see it, but do you have a list of the places you stayed with the campervan in Bavaria? Or are they all shown in each video? Trying to make a list, ty!
I loved standing on the bridge looking at this castle. Was something I had wanted to see since I was a child. I hated the crowds though!!
Germans eat yogurt and continental which consists of slices of ham, cheese, bread, jam, butter and soft boiled egg. Sometimes granola, that’s typical. I’ve been to the castle several times yes there are lots of tourists but It’s not that old built by crazy Ludwig to resemble an old castle. I personally loved it but most of the interior wasn’t finished. It was built more for the location.
Nice thing about a travel vlog with a couple is that there is always one food choice that I go: fries with sausage omg don't eat that! and one food choice I can actually relate to 🍲😋
What a beautiful camping spot and what a breakfast! I would be nervous too but Emma looks pretty confident riding her bike. While my family would probably also love to cycle around Germany a bit I have found in my adult years that my arse is not built for a bicycle seat!
My family and I totally agree that the Neuschwanstein experience was a bit of a disappointment. It was truly stunning in architecture and grandeur, especially on the inside, but way too crowded for our liking. We couldn't get a ride up the hill because everything was full so we had to hike up. It was so hot and tiring... which meant that none of us were happy campers by the time we finally arrived at the top.
We missed seeing the Alpsee. It looks quite lovely. Perhaps someday we will go back to see it and Hohenschwangau.
Loved the video! Now off to get caught up on more Travel Bean videos!
Local(ish) here, fun to go there just to watch all the tourists.
Nothing wrong with going there though, just expect it to be popular. There used to be more hidden gems but now with staycation it's pretty busy all over the alps (at least compared to what it used to be).
You Both are Just Terrific
Agree with you. Try Linderhof castle in the area. It's much more beautiful
It’s in the end also just a fantasy building of King Ludwig II., thus he might apply the same criticism to it.
If you want authentic castles you have to visit other places like Burghausen, Eltz Castle etc.
@@HingerlAlois true
Wonderful video xxx
This was the most English breakfast made from German ingredients that I have ever seen! I don't know why, but I always think of these hobbits when I see such lovely Brits preparing their breakfast... 🥰
Maybe overrated but I’m putting it on my list! Loved the honesty, the scenery and the commentary!
The sausages look so wonderful, shame I’m a veggie!
Love the honesty
Oh no:( that sucks you guys but I totally see what you mean just from the close ups on the video. However your shooting is lovely so, safe to assume it’s still a cool travel plan? (Bavaria in general)
That's my castle. Great vid btw, I haven't actually been there, but soon I will dwell there and rule
Good Alex You Found Your Wurst. I hope its Not the Last. Knackwurst my Favorite. Found in the North. Find Kongich Ludwig Weiss Beir . Make Ya See Double!!!! Way To Go Emma!!!! Born to be Wild!!!!!
We are looking at returning to Germany soon so will be looking for every sausage I can get my hands on.
British brutal honesty, love it!
how can it be honest.
did they go inside?
Loved it
I just visited the castle and came back to give you a thumb up. The surrounding is nice. But if you miss the inside, that’s ok.
It looks really nice from Mary's bridge, where so many photos have been taken of it,very pretty view of the castle from there, but yes up closer not as impressive.
I've been inside Neuschwanstein 4 times and it is spectacular! Don't knock it until you've tried it!
Stunning
I liked the smaller hunting lodge the Linderhof castle but all in all Bavaria is my favorite place to visit
We visited Neuschwanstein Castle in 2015 and I agree with you up close it was underwhelming.
Very nice
Thank you very very much for opening my eyes. I will never ever go there till my last breath.
I love visiting castles in the UK! You have so many amazing castles there 😍
I never visited Neuschwanstein and probably never will 😅 But Burg Hohenzollern is another famous castle in Germany and I think it’s pretty nice to visit.
Burg Hohenzollern is as fake as Neuschwanstein. Both late 19th century wannabe castles.
I liked it anyway.Yes it was rebuild in the 18 century. Does not make it a fake. It’s still a real castle 🤷🏻♀️
Haha. RE forgetting how to cycle... I haven't swam for like 20 years, and I'm genuniely frightened to now. I was a strong swimmer as a kid but I'm terrified I've forgotten how to do it, lol. I'll just make sure not to jump into the deep to find out, haha.
About you forgetting cycling there is something called "memory muscle"( or something like that) basically your muscles remember activities you used to do . beautiful scenery .sorry for any mistakes English is not my mother tongue.
Going under the channel tunnel when it first opened so underwhelming don't know what I really expected but everybody seem to be raving about it at the time.
they wouldn't know about that
they couldn't afford the entrance fee and didn't go in
Your breakfast is really funny for me to see. 🤣 This is part of an English breakfast made of German ingredients, which we would never eat for breakfast except the eggs. 😉 But I already used the Nürnberger sausage when I prepare Scottish breakfast, because the typical britisch breakfast sausage is not available here. When you want something similar to Hash browns you could look for Kartoffelrösti. But this is not breakfast for us. 🤣
Thank you for this lovely report. When I stood in front of the castle some years ago, I had the same disappointed feelings like you. But the area around is outstanding.
I agree about Neuschwanstein Castle, same as Hohenschwangau Castle. The interiors were okay, but only saw a few rooms during the tour. I went the during the month of September a few years ago, not a lot of people back then. I kinda like the smaller Linderhof Palace better. I stayed at Innsbruck near the border with Austria, awesome place.
What is the camping site name?
I'm German, been to the area three times. I agree : to much hype about this castle, too many people. Been in it once that was nice, never will go in again. I'm keep coming back to that area for hiking, the nature, Food in those little Alms/lodges in the forest where you get traditional Bavarian food.