Explore Germany's Enchanting Castles
Germany is home to an estimated 20,000 castles, offering a vast array of historical fortresses and palaces to explore. From the iconic Neuschwanstein to lesser-known ruins, these architectural marvels are a testament to Germany's rich history. To make the most of your visit, consider staying at one of the most popular tourist hotels in the country.
While many notable castles like Dresden Royal Castle and Mespelbrunn have been omitted, this list focuses on the quintessential castles that capture the essence of German romanticism and historical grandeur. These selections are based on their visual appeal, historical importance, and the overall visitor experience.
1. Neuschwanstein
King Ludwig of Bavaria's Neuschwanstein Castle is a fantastical retreat inspired by mythology and Romantic literature. With its neo-Romanesque and neo-Gothic design, it's a fairy tale come to life, set against a backdrop of Alpine foothills. Although only 15 of the planned 200 rooms were completed, the grandeur of the Throne Room and Ludwig's bedroom is undeniable. Advance booking is essential for this popular attraction.
Address: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, Schwangau
Official site: www.neuschwanstein.de
2. Hohenzollern Castle (Burg Hohenzollern)
The ancestral seat of Germany's imperial family, Hohenzollern Castle, stands as a neo-Gothic masterpiece. Visitors can explore the royal artifacts, including the Prussian crown, and enjoy guided tours through the opulent interiors. The castle also hosts one of Germany's top Christmas markets.
Official site: www.burg-hohenzollern.com
3. Schwerin Castle (Schweriner Schloss)
Schwerin Castle, surrounded by water, is a prime example of Romantic Historicism. Known as the "Neuschwanstein of the North," it has undergone extensive preservation and boasts a magnificent Throne Room.
Address: Lennéstraße 1, Schwerin
Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Schwerin & Easy Day Trips
4. Heidelberg Castle (Heidelberger Schloss)
Heidelberg Castle, a red sandstone structure, is a renowned example of German Renaissance architecture. Despite being partially ruined, it offers a pharmacy museum, a giant barrel, and spectacular fireworks displays.
Address: Schlosshof 1, Heidelberg
Official site: www.schloss-heidelberg.de
Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Heidelberg & Easy Day Trips
5. Wartburg Castle (Schloss Wartburg)
Wartburg Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German. The castle's architecture and art collections, including works by Lucas Cranach the Elder, are significant historical treasures.
Address: Auf der Wartburg 1, Eisenach
Official site: www.wartburg.de
6. Marburg Castle (Landgrafenschloss)
Marburg Castle, dating back to AD 1000, is a hillfort that inspired the Brothers Grimm. It now houses a comprehensive Museum of Art and Cultural History.
Address: Schloss 1, Marburg, Hess
7. Nuremberg Castle (Nürnberger Burg)
Nuremberg Castle is a significant medieval fortress that served as the residence of German kings and emperors. It features the Imperial Castle Museum and the Deep Well, which offers a glimpse into the castle's history.
Address: Auf der Burg 13, Nürnberg
Official site: www.kaiserburg-nuernberg.de
Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Nuremberg & Easy Day Trips
8. Wernigerode Castle (Schloss Wernigerode)
Wernigerode Castle, originally a medieval fortress, has evolved through various architectural styles and now features nearly 50 rooms showcasing castle life across different eras.
Address: Am Schloß 1, Wernigerode
9. Marksburg Castle (Schloss Marksburg)
Marksburg, the only hill castle on the Rhine never destroyed, offers a medieval drawbridge, an herb garden, and stunning views across the river.
Official site: www.marksburg.de
10. Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz)
Eltz Castle, owned by the same family since the 12th century, is a medieval masterpiece with original furnishings and a significant private collection of historic artworks.
Address: Eltz Castle, Burg-Eltz-Strasse 1, Wierschem
Official site: www.burg-eltz.de
11. Weesenstein Castle (Schloss Weesenstein)
Weesenstein Castle's unique layout descends a hill, with stables on the fifth floor and a park with formal gardens below.
Address: Am Schloßberg 1, Müglitztal
Official site: www.schloss-weesenstein.de
12. Hohenschwangau
Hohenschwangau, rebuilt in the 19th century, is adorned with murals depicting German legends and was the childhood home of King Ludwig II.
Address: Alpseestraße 30, Schwangau
13. Burg Schönfels
Burg Schönfels, a well-preserved fortified castle, offers a glimpse into its history through archaeological exhibits and panoramic views from its tower.
Address: Burgstraße 34, Lichtentann, Saxony
14. Reichsburg Castle
Reichsburg Castle, a neo-Gothic reconstruction of a medieval fortress, overlooks the Mosel River and hosts medieval festivals.
Address: Schloßstrasse 36, Cochem
Official site: reichsburg-cochem.de
15. Lichtenstein Castle (Schloss Lichtenstein)
Lichtenstein Castle, a 19th-century neo-Gothic castle, features Romantic-style interiors and is an hour from Stuttgart.
Address: Schloss Lichtenstein 1, Lichtenstein
Official site: www.schloss-lichtenstein.de
More Related Articles on tripates.com
Discovering More of Germany: For an overview of the country's attractions, see our articles on the top-rated tourist attractions in Germany and best places to visit in Germany.
Exploring Germany's Most Popular Regions: Plan your travels through Germany's southeast with our pages on the top-rated tourist attractions in Bavaria and the top day trips from Munich. Learn more about Southwest Germany in our article on the tourist attractions in the Black Forest.
