Has anyone out there taken the bus trip from downtown Munich to Linderhof and Neuschwanstein? Is it worth getting up early for in April? Or is the train better, we won't have a car.

Two years ago we took the train. It was easy to reach and less than a 2 hour trip (I think). Once off the train, a bus takes you to the base of the hill. Then be prepared to walk!! It's quite lovely, especially the surrounding countryside. <BR> <BR>Denise

We've always visited by car so can't compare train/bus methods ... <BR> <BR>... except to say that you want to get there early to cut down on the waiting time. I'd opt for the one that will do that the best. <BR> <BR>A bit of info on visiting Neuschwanstein and surrounds at www.twenj.com/bavarianeu.htm <BR> <BR>Rome.Switzerland.Bavaria <BR>www.twenj.com

We took the bus trip two years ago in Feb and it was definitely worth it! Even though it was quite cold outside and in (the castles are not heated)we enjoyed the tours very much. Linderhof is much smaller and much more magnificent. Neuschwanstein has almost no furniture and was never really finished, although Ludwig's bed is fantastic! I guess I was expecting more. The walk up the hill is a killer!! We had an excellent lunch at the restaurant where the bus stops. I'm sure you'll enjoy the castles whichever way you go.

Didn't notice your mention of Linderhof in reading the message at first. I don't know of any way to get to there except by car or tour bus ... certainly not and do Neuschwanstein in the same day. Linderhof definitely worthwhile ... if you have an interest in it then take the tour bus. <BR> <BR>Ed

Ah memories, my husband and I took the bus trip to Weisbaden and Neuschwanstein in 1984 on our honeymoon. I remember it was a loooooong day, it rained non-stop. However, we ate in a cute little place at the foot of the hill that goes to the castle, had the best Black Forest cake. The castle was great, but couldn't walk around the grounds cause of the rain. Also remember the verrrrrry drunk tour guide who wouldn't shut up the whole way back .

Several years ago I was in Europe and took that exact bus trip. I was with a friend - and we thought it was great. It's DEFINITELY worth getting up early for (and I am NOT a morning person). I still wonder how they got all those materials up in those mountains back then... Also, be prompt on arriving at your pickup place. The drivers we encountered in Germany were excellent - but they expected everyone to be prompt and had no tolerance for anyone late (luckily we were not the late ones...)