Germany’s castles come in all shapes in sizes but have many similarities amongst them such as fortified gatehouses called barbicans, the Great Halls, the high tower in the centre called the Keep, or the heavy iron Portcullis that could be lowered across the entrance to keep out intruders.
Whereas castles were generally built as defensive structures and lacked comfort, there are also many beautiful palaces that were homes for royal families that are worth exploring too, so we’ve also included a few of them. Some of Germany’s castles are in ruins, but many are still owned, even after several centuries, by the original families and have been kept in their original condition or lovingly restored. With such so much legend and mystery surrounding these castles, it’s easy to see why so many people that visit each year seek out these fascinating pieces of Germany’s history.
With hundreds, if not thousands, of castles or castle ruins to explore, there is no shortage of options for an enthusiastic castle lover to visit and it would be impossible to narrow it down to the ‘best’ castles to visit in Germany. So instead, we’ve rounded up recommendations of some of Germany’s most beautiful and historic castles from fellow travel bloggers and us that you’ll want to add to your own trip to Germany.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CASTLES TO VISIT IN GERMANY
- Kronberg Castle
- Hohenzollern Castle
- Schwerin Castle
- Sanssouci Palace
- Colmberg Castle
- Marienburg Castle
- Rheinstein Castle
- Heidelberg Castle
- Nuremberg Castle
- Dresden Royal Palace
- Wartburg Castle
- Eltz Castle
- Drachenburg Castle
- Linderhof Palace
- Rheinfels Castle
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Lichtenstein Castle
Kronberg Castle is a small but charming castle in the Taunus area close to Frankfurt. The oldest walls date back to the 12th century, but the owners expanded the building multiple times over the years. That’s why today, you can see a mixture of different building styles here.
The upper part of the castle is also the oldest one. If you climb its tower on a clear day, you can see the skyline of Frankfurt on the horizon. Watch out for the ruins of Burg Falkenstein, another castle in the region which you can spot on the hills behind you.
The lower part of the castle likely originated in the 14th century when the castle owners felt a need to expand their living space. Here, you can also discover two gardens as well as the remnants of a chapel.
As you can reach Kronberg in less than half an hour by train from Frankfurt, it makes for a perfect half-day trip. You can visit Kronberg Castle and stroll through the picturesque town before returning to Frankfurt.
An alternative is going for a hike through the Taunus area, where you have the opportunity of seeing three castles in one day – Kronberg Castle, Burg Falkenstein and Königstein Castle, all located within a few kilometres.
Contribution and Photo from Daniel & Ilona of Top Travel Sights
Reviews of Kronberg Castle | Schlossstrasse 10-12, 61476 Kronberg im Taunus, Hesse Germany
Hohenzollern Castle is one of the most iconic castles in Germany. It’s built literally on the top of a lone hill, easily seen from miles away in any direction.
Not only is it built in an impressive location, but it’s also a very beautiful castle. Built from golden stone which gleams in the sun, exploring it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The entrance is particularly unique – you enter via a gatehouse and then wind up a steep stoned path inside a covered walkway, old prison cells, small windows. It all feels very dark and mysterious before you eventually emerge into the bright courtyard.
Another highlight of visiting Hohenzollern is the catacombs or network of underground caves. This is where the ammunition and gunpowder were stored many years ago. Now, you can walk through this maze of caves and marvel at how they were created- all on the top of a hill.
It is possible to visit Hohenzollern as part of a tour, but it’s better to have your own transport. Be sure to arrive as early as possible so you can enjoy the castle without the crowds. Even better, if you’re motorhoming in Germany, you can stay overnight in the car park and be first through the gates in the morning.
Contribution and Photo from Kat of Wandering Bird
Reviews of Hohenzollern Castle | D-72379 Burg Hohenzollern, Germany
One of the most beautiful castles to visit in Germany, and also the most secluded, is the Schwerin Castle. Also known as the Schwerin Palace, for centuries and until about 100 years ago, it was inhabited by the succession of Grand Dukes of Mecklenburg-Schwerin, however, these days it is instead used as a parliament building.
The castle is located in the city of Schwerin in northern Germany. It’s the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern state between Hamburg and Berlin, and it’s a bit of a hidden gem in Europe. The castle itself is located on an island in the city’s main lake, Lake Schwerin and has been there since it was first founded in 1160. Although this is the official date, there are also traces of the castle dating back as far as 942!
Beautiful, picturesque, and fascinating, Schwerin Castle is surrounded by lakes, gardens and forest and literally looks as though it was plucked out of a storybook. The castle has an adjoining museum, and you can buy tickets to visit the castle from the museum’s office. The entrance fee is 5,50 € and an extra 2€ to include the special exhibitions. You can also buy an additional audio guide for 2€ which will tell you more interesting facts about the castle and its history.
Contribution from Alice of Adventures of Alice
Reviews of Schwerin Castle | 19053 Schwerin, Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, Germany
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Sanssouci is the stunning summer palace built for Frederick the Great of Prussia in the mid-1700s. King Frederick was known as the “potato king” as he introduced potatoes to his resistant country, branding them as royal food to gain acceptance. To this day, people leave potatoes on his grave on the grounds of his favorite palace, Sanssouci.
It’s located in Potsdam, a little outside of Berlin, Germany. Though it’s much smaller than the French Palace of Versailles, it was built to be the German equivalent. It’s every bit as stunning.
The palace carries an interesting name. “Sans souci,” meaning without concern or carefree in French, indicating that the palace was intended to be a place for rest and relaxation and not a seat of power. The palace was built in the Rococo style popular at the time, both inside and out. It’s one story and contains only ten main rooms, though they are quite large and luxurious.
There are a number of smaller structures on the palace grounds. One includes an extensive art collection in the opulent main hall. The large and magnificent Sanssouci gardens are also a highlight of the palace. There is a long staircase in the back of the palace leading to the terraced gardens with a large fountain in the center.
Sanssouci is a UNESCO World Heritage site, as part of the Prussian Palaces and Gardens. It gets millions of visitors a year and is a popular place to visit on a day trip from Berlin.
Contribution and Photo from Sam of My Flying Leap
Reviews of Sanssouci Palace | Maulbeerallee, 14469 Potsdam, Brandenburg, Germany
Perched on a hilltop on the edge of the small town of Colmberg, your first glimpse of Colmberg Castle will have you imagining you have stepped into a fairy tale.
Thanks to its close proximity – just 19 kilometres away – a visit to the castle is one of the many interesting things to do in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Colmberg Castle (Burg Colmberg) dates back over 1000 years and still retains its fortified walls, archways, and turreted corner towers. The first castle is believed to have been built in 770 AD but it wasn’t until 1140 that Hohenstaufen emperors expanded it to become an imperial castle.
Over the centuries, the castle has had many different owners including Burgrave Friedrich IV of Nuremberg, the Kingdom of Bavaria and even a former German Imperial Consul in Japan. In 1964 it was purchased by the Unbehauen family, who have turned it into a hotel and restaurant.
Visitors to the castle can explore the restored 15th Century chapel and banquet halls and admire furnishings that date back to medieval times. The gardens inside the castle’s old stone walls are small but pretty and offer wonderful views over the surrounding landscape. Admission is free.
If you have time to linger, the castle restaurant serves hearty meals with an emphasis on local produce, including venison from the castle’s deer farm, and there’s a range of accommodation to choose from including the romantic Tower Guard Suite.
Colmberg Castle is a beautiful and historic castle that is well worth a visit.
Contribution and Photo from Carolyn of Holidays to Europe
Reviews of Colmberg Castle Hotel | An der Burgenstrasse, 91598 Colmberg, Bavaria Germany
Marienburg Castle stands high on a hill just 20 km outside Hanover, making for a great day trip. The fairytale castle was built as a proof of love and birthday present from George V, the last King of Hanover, for his beloved wife, Marie. Its mere existence is owed to the Queen’s long wish for a romantic summer residence.
In terms of architecture, the neo-gothic style was chosen. The construction started in 1857 and ended with a massive building that has 160 rooms and sky-high watchtowers. Sadly, its owners only got to live for one year in the castle. In 1866, while the castle was still under construction, war broke out between Prussia and Hanover. As Hannover was annexed by Prussia, the king fled to Austria and was followed by the queen one year later. The impressive, abandoned palace stayed untouched and uninhabited for almost 80 years, until the end of World War II. Because of this, the design and everything inside is original and in perfect condition.
Officially, the castle is still owned by the Royal House of Hanover nowadays but can be visited. On the outside, the countless turrets and pinnacles will fascinate guests while approaching the castle. Inside, visitors can see the staterooms and private chambers of the royal family, the private library of the Queen and even the completely preserved main kitchen.
Contribution and Photo from Raluca of Travel With A Spin
Reviews of Marienburg Castle | Marienburg 1, 30982 Pattenson b Hannover, Lower Saxony Germany
This incredibly beautiful castle, perched atop a rocky outcrop and overlooking the Rhine River below, is one of the most stunning castles you can visit in Germany.
The castle – or burg – is located in the Rhine Valley between Bingen and Trechtingshausen. The easiest way to get there is to drive (you need to park at the bottom of the hill and walk up a switchback trail to the castle) or take a Rhine River cruise and get off, visit the castle, then hop back on the next boat.
You can explore the entire medieval castle on a self-guided tour. Burg Rheinstein dates from the early 1300s and still has an intact drawbridge. Inside the main building is the impressive Knight’s Hall with beautiful stained-glass windows and 3D paintings. Walk up the turret for spectacular views over the Rhine River far below.
Don’t miss the beautiful Burgundy Garden where there is a 500-year-old Burgundy grape vine that still bears fruit today! The castle chapel, down some steps from the garden, has a gorgeous Gothic altarpiece.
The castle has a gift shop and a café. This makes a wonderful place for lunch with some local wine and views to die for. There are even two well-appointed rooms that you can stay in overnight!
Rheinstein Castle is truly one of the most beautiful and enjoyable castles to visit in Germany.
Contribution and Photo from James Ian of Travel Collecting
Reviews of Rheinstein Castle | Trechtingshausen, Rhineland-Palatinate Germany
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Heidelberg Castle stands above the city of Heidelberg. It comprises several buildings built around an inner courtyard and each building has a different style of German architecture. The first part was built in 1300 but did not become a regal residence for another 100 years.
The castle was home to all of the Electors of the Palatinate. The castle was badly damaged by fire three times – in 1689, 1693, and 1764. The first two fires were during wars with the French, and the third time was caused by lightning.
Visitors are only allowed around the castle as part of an organized group. Sadly, the magnificent gardens with lakes and fountains were also destroyed by the French. To mark the castle’s three fires, there are firework displays at the castle three times each year – on the first Saturdays in June and September and the second Saturday in July.
The Heidelberg Tun is the world’s largest wine barrel and was built in 1751 by Prince Elector Theodore, as he needed somewhere to store all the wine he collected in lieu of taxes. It stands seven meters high and holds 220,000 liters of wine and supports a dance floor!
Contribution and Photo from Chrysoula of Historic European Castles
Reviews of Heidelberg Castle | Schlosshof 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Baden-Wurttemberg Germany
Nuremberg Castle is a fortified complex of medieval buildings that overlook the historic centre of Nuremberg from atop a sandstone ridge.
As one of the most distinguished Imperial castles of the Holy Roman Empire, it not only served as a residence for the emperors but also was where many of the empire’s administrative functions took place. In 1356, Emperor Charles IV declared that Nuremberg was where every newly-elected ruler had to hold his first Imperial Diet. As a result, the city of Nuremberg became an important centre of the empire.
The castle’s courtyard is framed by several structures including towers, gates, fortification walls, and cute half-timbered buildings that look they belong in a small village rather than a castle.
During a tour of the castle, visitors can explore the Palas, the castle’s main building, to see the halls and emperor’s living spaces, as well as the double chapel. Throughout the castle, there are many interesting relics on display, some of which were gifts given to the Emperor. The Deep Well, Sinwell Tower, and small garden can be visited as well.
Nuremberg Castle is a must-see if you want to see learn more about the Holy Roman Empire and the Imperial city of Nuremberg while being surrounded by beautiful medieval architecture.
Contribution and Photo from Rhonda of Travel? Yes Please!
Reviews of Nuremberg Castle | Burg 17, 90403 Nuremberg, Bavaria Germany
Nestled in the heart of the old town area is the fascinating Dresden Castle, one of many magnificent buildings in the city. The castle is beautiful and much of it forms part of the old town and you can wander through to get elsewhere. The castle dates back to 1200, however, key parts were added from the 15th century, including the imposing octagonal tower called the Hausmannsturm. Subsequently, they rebuilt it and added to it many times over the centuries, the latest rebuild was after the Second World War.
The castle has some rather fascinating features, including the Stallburg where knights used to compete in tournaments. The Fürstenzug is a fascinating work of art made from porcelain on the walls of the castle. This is a record of all the rulers of Saxony.
It is now home to many museums for visitors to enjoy, including the iconic Green Vault, the largest collection of treasure in Europe. The Münzkabinett one of the oldest museums in the city is a coin museum that was founded in around 1530. Other museums include the armoury and some Dresden State Art Collections.
Dresden Castle is a fascinating castle to visit, even just to wander around the grounds and courtyards to get a feel of the place.
Contribution and Photo from Richard of RJ On Tour
Reviews of Dresden Royal Palace | Schlossplat 1 Taschenbergpalais 2, 01067 Dresden, Saxony Germany
Wartburg Castle, overlooking the town of Eisenach in the German state of Thuringia, is a beautiful castle with a very rich history. It was in this medieval castle that Martin Luther translated the Bible’s New Testament into German. The castle is full of ravishing rooms with some amazing details like stone carvings, frescos, and mosaics.
Apart from Luther’s room, you can visit the Hall of Minstrels, where the contest of minstrels was held, the Elizabeth Chamber, which is decorated with beautiful mosaics and many, many other rooms. The Elizabeth Chamber was named after Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, another one of Wartburg Castle’s most famous residents. She was sent here at the age of four, in order to be raised to become the wife of Ludwig IV of Thuringia.
Visiting Wartburg Castle feels like taking a trip back into history. It’s a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site (Germany’s first one) with an incredible history and stunning architecture. At the end of your visit, you can visit the castle’s museum. This museum has an impressive collection of furniture, musical instruments, paintings, armour and more. It’s an absolute must for history buffs or music lovers!
Contribution and Photo from Laura of Laure Wanders
Reviews of Wartburg Castle | Auf der Wartburg 1, 99817 Eisenach, Thurinigia Germany
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Tucked among tree-covered hills, Eltz Castle is a veritable fairytale castle, with beautiful turrets and bay windows, a stone bridge with an arch gateway, and towers that reach a height of forty metres. This medieval castle dates back to the 12th century and remains owned by a branch of the same family that originally lived in it. It sits above the Moselle River and is one of the only three castles on the left bank of the Rhine that survive to this day.
There are over 100 rooms in the castle, but only a few of them are open to the public, including the banqueting chambers. However, the castle is still worth a visit as you get to see some well-preserved frescoes, stunning tapestries, and authentic medieval furnishings.
If you’re looking for day trips from Frankfurt, Eltz Castle is just a 1.5-hour drive from the city. To get to the castle, you’ll need to hike through the unspoilt Eltz Forest. There is a clearly marked path from the car park to the castle, and along the way, you’ll find a great viewpoint where you can take in the entire size of the castle set against the hills.
Contribution and Photo from Daniela of Grumpy Camel
Reviews of Eltz Castle | Burg Eltz 1, 56294 Wierschem, Rhineland-Palatinate Germany
Schloss Drachenburg is one of the most interesting castles in Germany. It is an intriguing mix of styles, giving it a look much older than it actually is. Don’t be deceived though, this castle is packed full of history all of its own.
With towers and turrets and sweeping staircases, it has all the grandeur of one of the older castles. Perched on a hilltop overlooking pretty Königswinter, just outside of Bonn, Schloss Drachenburg is an imposing sight.
It was constructed in the 19th century, designed by Baron Stephan von Sarter who never got to actually live in it. It is packed full of clever little architectural details that may have you scratching your head – ceilings made to look like wood, organs that can’t actually play and historic styles that are much more modern than they originally seem.
Even though it might not be as old as it initially appears it has an interesting past as a Christian boys’ boarding school right through to an Adolf-Hitler-Schule, teaching the Nazi elite. A visit to Schloss Drachenburg is great for family holidays to Germany there’s much to explore here and everyone will love spotting the little tricks in the details. Even the trip up, a strenuous walk up the hill from Königswinter or a much speedier trip on the funicular train is part of the fun of a visit to this enchanting castle.
Contribution and Photo from Nichola of Family Hotel Expert
Reviews of Drachenburg Castle | Drachenfelsstrasse 118, 53639 Koenigswinter, North Rhine-Westphalia Germany
Looking like a miniature French chateau, but located deep in German’s Bavarian countryside, Schloss Linderhof is a real treasure trove of fantasies and myths. It’s no surprise then to learn that Linderhof was based on Versailles, the most sumptuous and extravagant of French castles and home of Louis XIV, the infamous Sun King.
Designed and built by Ludwig II, Bavaria’s mad king’, Linderhof was the only palace he designed which he lived to see completed. His other, more famous, masterpiece is nearby Neuschwanstein Castle which you should definitely stop at as you road trip Germany. Finished in 1878, the palace is nestled amongst formal French gardens, sparkling fountains, and delightful grottoes, which entertained King Ludwig when he visited Linderhof to escape public life.
Inside, the golden, jewel-encrusted rooms reflect Ludwig’s mercurial character, which was eventually to be his undoing. In his private bedroom is a vast chandelier that holds 108 candles and weighs over half a tonne, alongside an artificial waterfall to cool the room in summer just outside the window. In the dining room, is a mechanised dining table that sank through the floor so it could be replenished without the servants being seen. Many of Ludwig’s ideas, such as gravity-fed water closets, were ahead of their time but his eccentricity bred mistrust with his advisors and unsettled the governors of Munich.
Linderhof is a place of exceptional beauty and wonder. The vision and love with which it was designed and built shine through in every room and invention, sadly misunderstood in 19th century Germany. If Ludwig was alive today, he may well have been considered a design genius!
Contribution and Photo from Izzy & Phil of The Gap Decaders
Reviews of Linderhof Palace | Linderhof 12, 82488 Ettal, Bavaria Germany
Burg Rheinfels is not your average German medieval castle. In fact, most of it is gone and what remains today is a maze of ruins but one that you can easily spend half a day exploring.
Initially built as a fortress in the 13th century, Burg Rheinfels strategically overlooks the banks of the Rhine River. Rheinfels stood as a mighty fortress for centuries until it was surrendered to French forces in the late 18th century. Bits and pieces were then blown up, and it’s been perching above the Rhine as a ruin ever since.
The ruins are extensive and include anything from giant wine cellars, tunnels, fortification structures, towers, storage rooms to courtyards. Like other castles in this region, Rheinfels is surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills with views into the Rhine Valley that are hard to beat.
Located near the town of Sankt Goar, Rheinfels is easily accessible by car or shuttle bus from Sankt Goar. Roaming about the castle can either be done on a self-guided tour (pick up a map at the admissions desk) or as part of a tour (German only). The underground tunnels can only be explored on a guided tour now. Since this castle is more labyrinth than beautiful rooms and corridors, plan at least 2-3 hours if you like exploring on your own.
Rheinfels is an outdoor castle so come prepared. But it’s one that’s perfect for the whole family to visit!
Contribution and Photo from Kati of Queensland & Beyond
Reviews of Rheinfels Castle | Schlossberg 47, 56329 Sankt Goar, Rhineland-Palatinate Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle is located on a hill overlooking the village of Hohenschwangau, in the Bavarian region of Germany. The castle is one of the most visited tourist attractions, not just in Germany, but in the whole of Europe, receiving nearly 1.5 million visitors annually.
The castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II in 1868 and soon it became the king’s private retreat where he lived on and off. However, Ludwig died in 1886 without seeing the final Neuschwanstein Castle.
Shortly after the king’s death, the castle was opened to the public. The castle’s bower and square tower were completed in 1892.
The castle’s guided tour takes you through rooms such as the king’s bedroom, Singers’ Hall, dressing room and the Throne Room. The castle’s highest tower is 213 feet high which gives it a majestic feel. Neuschwanstein Castle has a striking white limestone facade and cylindrical towers accentuated with blue turrets that actually make it look magical. It’s so magical that it became the inspiration to Walt Disney in creating Sleeping Beauty Castle, now an iconic symbol of the Magic Kingdom.
The castle is a wonderful year-round destination with a fresh, magical look during each season which will make you want to visit the castle during every season, however, do note that it is busiest in July and August. There are many viewpoints to see the castle the most popular of which, for good reason, is Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge). Here you can get that iconic photo of Neuschwanstein Castle rising on a hilltop through the trees.
Contribution and Photo from Anuradha of Country Hopping Couple
Reviews of Neuschwanstein Castle | Neuschwansteinstrasse 20, 87645 Schwangau, Bavaria Germany
Standing quietly below its very famous neighbour, Neuschwanstein Castle, the unique gold-coloured Hohenschwangau Castle is well worth taking the time to visit during a visit to Germany.
The castle was originally built in the 12th century by the Knights of Schwangau but was damaged by Napoleon and left to ruins. It was then rebuilt by King Ludwig’s father in a neo-Gothic style in the 1830s and was used by the royal family as a summer hunting lodge. King Ludwig spent much of his childhood in the castle, and from here he followed the construction of his dream castle on the hill above. His telescope is still set up and focused on Neuschwanstein Castle.
Hohenschwangau Castle is still owned by the Wittelsbach family, which ruled Bavaria for almost 700 years, and it feels more like a noble home than a castle with comfort clearly valued as much as outward splendour. The interior décor is original (from 1835) and is simply beautiful with paintings inspired by Romantic themes and murals depicting ancient German legends.
You can only visit the castle on a guided tour, but they are relaxed, informative, and highly recommended. To add a little something to your visit to Hohenschwangau Castle, pay the extra few euros for the horse-drawn carriage ride. It leaves the village near the ticket centre and then winds its way up the shady, tree-lined path hill to the castle entrance. What a way to visit a castle!
Reviews of Hohenschwangau Castle | Schwangau-Orsteil Hohenschwangau, 87645 Hohenschwangau, Bavaria German
Located in the Baden region of Germany, Lichtenstein Castle is a small, but picture-perfect castle nestled precariously on a hilltop overlooking the village of Honau in the Echaz valley. The current, privately-owned castle was built in the 19th century and was inspired by the novel of the same name by Wilhelm Hauff. However, there have been buildings of various types on the site since the 1100s and the ruins of a medieval castle can be visited a short distance away.
The castle was constructed between 1840 and 1842 and was opened in the presence of the King. Decorated inside and out by Nuremberg painter George Eberlein, the castle was intended to be a German medieval knight’s castle.
Visitors can explore the grounds of the castle, but you have to take a guided tour to visit the central keep. The tour takes about thirty-minutes and visits the armoury, chapel, and drinking room on the ground floor. On the first floor, you’ll visit the King’s Room, Coat of Arms Room and the Knight’s Hall. The guide will provide lots of interesting information about the castle’s history and each of the rooms you visit. The tour ends with a view of the optical illusion painting the Archer of Lichtenstein, the bow always points directly at you, no matter what angle you look at the painting from!
The restored castle is quite fairy-tale like and it was used for a German adaptation of Sleeping Beauty in 2009 and is well worth a visit.
Reviews of Lichenstein Castle | Schloss Lichtenstein 1, 72805 Lichtenstein, Baden-Wurttemberg Germany
Looking for more information to plan your visit to Germany? You may find these articles helpful.
RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO GERMANY
- Learn the fascinating royal history of 25 of Germany’s best castles and the compelling personal stories of the families that lived in them.
- For all things Germany, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his Germany travel guide, full episodes of his TV show, or download his app for excellent audio tours.
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