9 of the Coolest Castles in Germany
Germany is a country situated in western Europe and has a varying landscape including forests and mountain ranges. The population is 83 million and the capital is Berlin. Germany has a rich culture and history, with many castles and palaces still standing today.
The country is known for its beautiful architecture, beer, cars and of course bratwurst. Germany itself is a beautiful country with many top tourist destinations and attractions.
The country has been through many wars, including World War I and II, which have had a significant impact on its architecture and monuments.
The castles and palaces in Germany date back to medieval times when they were built as fortresses or homes for royalty. These majestic buildings are still standing today, offering tourists a glimpse into Germany’s rich history.
If you are looking to up your castle game and see some European history, then Germany is the place for you. There are so many beautiful castles in Germany, there really is no shortage of them. Germany has the highest number of castles within its borders in the world with a staggering 25,000 of them!
The castles in Germany are very varied and each has its own unique story to tell. From simple fortresses to grand palaces, and medieval castles to modern chateaus, there is something for everyone here.
From those that have been restored to their former glory, to the ones that are in ruins. If you love your history, architecture and most importantly castle sightseeing you are in for a treat. The below round-up is some of the most beautiful castles in Germany and are all a must-see.
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Neuschwanstein Castle
If you are interested in seeing some of the most famous german castles, you should start with Neuschwanstein Castle. Located in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria.
The castle was constructed in the 19th century in the style of a medieval fortress and is one of the most visited castles in Europe. The castle is known for its exterior decoration: huge towers, crenellated battlements, and a tall central tower crowned with a battlemented spire.
This medieval castle may seem familiar, that is because it has been featured in many films such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. It was also the castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty and the main castle built at Disneyland Paris.
This movie star castle has it all and should definitely be number one on your bucket list of famous castles in Germany. The ideas for the structure of this castle came from King Ludwig II who loved romantic architecture. Named, mad King Ludwig he ended up building three castles in Germany.
The castle is located in Schwangau, Germany right on the southern border with Austria. The river Pöllat runs east of the complex with many mountains towering around it. You can drive to the castle and there is ample parking located at the bottom.
The main castle entrance is a short walk from here. The castle itself is a masterpiece of Bavarian Baroque architecture. You can visit the castle and go inside to marvel at the grand interior, and stunning views of the mountains, gardens and surrounding area.
You can take part in guided tours of the building that will really open your eyes to the history and magic within the castle walls. An adult ticket to enter the castle is 17.50 euros which includes a 30 minute guided tour. The complex has a museum where you can learn more about the history of Neuschwanstein Castle.
Accommodation near Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle Tours
- Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof Palace Day Tour from Munich
- Skip-the-Line: Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Hohenschwangau
- Private Full-Day Tour of Neuschwanstein Castle from Innsbruck
Heidelberg Castle
Heidelberg Castle was built in the 1200’s and from many unfortunate events since then it has been destroyed and then rebuilt several times. The castle has changed over the years, but it still retains its medieval character.
Today you can visit the iconic ruins and imagine what the castle would have been like back in its former glory. The castle is located in the west of Germany, up on a hill 300ft overlooking Heidelberg. This German town has a lot of charm and the castle ruins are just one of the reasons the town is so popular.
The castle may be in ruins but you can still visit the grounds and take a guided tour. A ticket for entry is 9 euros and a guided tour with an experienced tour guide is an extra 6 euros.
The entry ticket gains you access to view the castle courtyard and grounds, the barrel cellar, use of the funicular railway, plus entry to the German Pharmacy Museum. If you are looking to see a castle, then Heidelberg is the place to be.
The town has many other attractions that will keep you busy for days. It is a great place to visit if you want to explore German history and culture.
Accommodation near Heidelberg Castle
Heidelberg Castle Tours
- Private Walking Tour of Old Town Heidelberg including Castle Visit
- Heidelberg Half-Day Trip from Frankfurt
- Heidelberg old Town Tour
Hohenzollern Castle
Next up on our best german castles list is Hohenzollern Castle. This castle was built back in 1867 by the very wealthy Hohenzollern family. This castle is still owned by the family and should they be staying at the residence, the castle lifts up the family flag for everyone to see.
The castle is located in the southwest area of Germany between the larger towns Bisingen and Hechingen. The castle sits high on top of a mountain but is still easily accessible. There are car parks situated at the bottom of the mountain with a short walk or shuttle bus up to the top.
Hohenzollern Castle is open to the public in a variety of ways. The castle regularly holds public events including its annual Royal Winter Magic Show. There is also a restaurant and bar onsite along with a souvenir shop. A day ticket to visit the castle is 22 euros.
Accommodation near Hohenzollern Castle
Hohenzollern Castle Tour
Wartburg Castle
Located on the outskirts of the town Eisenach in central Germany, Wartburg Castle was built in the middle ages. The castle towers above the town from 410 meters above from the hilltop.
Since 1999, Wartburg Castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The castle is famous for housing Martin Luther who translated the Bible into German.
The castle complex has many historical rooms including a Luther room, a museum, a courtyard and outdoor areas plus an impressive art collection. A ticket costs 12 euros to enter. There are also many public events held here such as the annual Christmas markets.
The castle is easily accessible as it is situated next to Eisenach. You can get to it by car and parking in one of the nearby car parks. There are also many hikes and pathways leading up the side of the hill, so if you wish to walk up, that is also a fun option.
Accommodation near Wartburg Castle
Wartburg Castle Tour
Cochem Imperial Castle
This next German castle is located in Cochem, a town in western Germany. Cochem Imperial Castle is the most visited attraction in Cochem, and it is easy to see why. The views from the top are breathtaking and you can walk around the castle walls for hours.
The inside of the castle has been renovated to provide a light-filled space that almost looks like something out of a fairytale storybook. It sits 300 feet above the town on a hilltop and it was traditionally used to collect money from passing ships on the River Moselle.
Today it is open to the public where you can take guided tours inside the castle walls. There is parking below the castle in the nearby town but allow yourself a 15 to 30 minute walk up to the top. Cochem Imperial Castle has an imperial style and was originally built around the year 1000.
Since then it has been through many renovations, most recently in 1877 by modern Berlin architects. Cochem town itself is very charming and is renowned for its wine production.
This means the surrounding area is very scenic and covered in local vineyards. Why not take a vineyard tour and wine-tasting experience after you visit the castle?
Accommodation near Cochem Imperial Castle
Burghausen Castle
Burghausen Castle is the longest castle complex in the world. Located in Upper Bavaria, it spans 1051 meters across and dates back to the 8th century.
It has seen a lot of restoration work over the years, especially between the 13th and 15th centuries when its thick protective walls, fortified towers and moats were built. In the present day, the castle is shining with glory as it has been preserved and regenerated to a high standard.
The castle complex consists of five outer courtyards that are lovely to take a walk around. It is also a great place to take photos, especially during the summer when the flowers in the courtyards are in full bloom.
The view of Burghausen Castle from the outside is very impressive. The medieval architecture and massive stone walls make it look like something out of an old movie.
Accommodation near Burghausen Castle
Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle is a fairytale like castle that was built in the 12th century. The castle is located in the mountains, which means it is not only beautiful but also surrounded by nature.
One of the coolest things about Eltz Castle is that it has been owned by one family for over 900 years! This makes it one of few castles in Germany with such a long ownership history and makes for great stories about how different generations have lived there over time.
The architecture of the Burg Eltz is large and impressive, it has eight tall towers that go as high as 35 meters. You can see these up close and personal with many guided tours taking place throughout the day.
Inside the castle, you will find many rooms, each with a different theme and purpose. Some are decorated with antique furniture, while others are filled with medieval weapons and armour. The castle grounds include beautiful gardens that have been well maintained over time, giving visitors a great place to relax after touring the castle itself.
The castle is very remote and can be tricky to get to. There is no parking nearby, you must walk up the steep hill to gain access.
There are many hiking routes around the area so this castle is more suited to those that are active and enjoy walking. The closest towns are Müden and Moselkern, these small villages have limited amenities but enough to cover you for your trip.
Accommodation near Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle Tour
Schwerin Castle
Schwerin Castle is a palace fit for any royalty, it is located in Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern state in Germany. It has been built on an island in the city’s main lake, Lake Schwerin.
Schwerin Palace was built back in 1857 by the Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II, it has been occupied by many dukes and duchesses ever since.
The castle is huge in appearance and is extremely grand and beautiful. The palace has been well maintained and is still used today, it is open to the public for tours. The inside of the castle is decorated with many paintings and tapestries that date back centuries ago.
The old castle is easy to get to even though it is built in the middle of the lake. There are bridges to get across and gain access.
The castle complex often holds public events such as Christmas markets, summer festivals and sporting events.
Schwerin Castle is a great day out for all the family, enjoy gazing up at the historic architecture, wander around the picturesque gardens and take a stroll over the lake. The castle is also home to a museum, which houses one of the best collections of tapestries in Germany.
Accommodation near Schwerin Castle
Schwerin Castle Tours
Wernigerode Castle
The 12th century Wernigerode Castle is a medieval castle in the town of Wernigerode in the Harz Mountains of central Germany. The castle is built on a rocky outcrop above the town and dates back thousands of years.
It was modernised back in the 19th century which gave it a more modern and updated look. The romantic baroque castle stands 300 ft above the town below and attracts many visitors each year.
You can visit the castle and take a group guided tour to learn about the diverse history and culture of the region.
The castle is set in beautiful surroundings and offers a variety of activities to enjoy. The medieval complex consists of onsite hotels, restaurants and shops which makes Wernigerode Castle a great day out.
You can take a walk around the large walls or simply sit back and relax while enjoying views across the town below.
Accommodation near Wernigerode Castle
Conclusion
There are many fairytale castles in Germany and they are all waiting to be explored, history and all. The best way to experience these castles is through a guided tour, which will give you an in-depth look at all the history and architecture that has gone into creating these amazing places.
These tours are also great for kids, as they can learn about their country’s history and culture while also having fun.
The castles are a great place to go for anyone who is interested in history, architecture or fairytales. It is an experience like no other, one that will stay with you for years to come!
The castles in Germany offer a wide array of experiences, from ancient fortresses to modern-day palaces. No matter what you are looking for in a castle, it is likely you will find it here.
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