25 Best Castles in Germany to Visit

Who doesn’t love a good castle, right? Germany has some fantastic castles and palaces, from the famous ones to lesser known ones that are worth getting off the beaten path to see.

Some are the most picturesque fairy tale castles you’ve ever seen, while others are in ruins. No matter cities in Germany you’re visiting, there’s sure to be a castle nearby.

Best castles and palaces in Germany

I can’t be everywhere, so I asked some other bloggers to contribute about their favorite castles in Germany. There are some classics in here, but also some you probably haven’t heard of.

The famous castles are well known for a reason, and it’s amazing to get to see them in person. But sometimes it’s great to visit a lesser known castle. Fewer crowds can mean a better experience.

Here are some of the best castles in Germany to visit.

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Charlottenburg Palace

Built in 1695 as a summer palace for Sophie Charlotte (Queen Consort of Prussia at the time), the Baroque style Charlottenburg Palace is an exquisite royal residence. Easily one of the most beautiful palaces in Germany, Charlottenburg has plenty of wide sweeping gardens, elaborate Rococo interiors, and ornate furnishings.

Visitors to the palace – the largest in Berlin – can peer into the grand ballroom or “Goldene Galerie” and various state rooms as they explore. And it’s Christmastime, the Christmas market in front of the palace is one prettier ones in the city.

This is the prettiest castle in Berlin, and one you should include on your Berlin bucket list.

The Charlottenburg Palace is located at Spandauer Damm 10-22. The closest Sbahn station is S Westend, and the closest Ubahn stations are U Richard-Wagner-Platz or U Sophie-Charlotte-Platz.

>>Check out our list of the top World War II and Cold War attractions in Berlin.

Sanssouci Palace

This is the most well known palace in Potsdam. It was built in the mid 1700s for Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, and it served as his summer palace.

Sanssouci is often compared to Versailles in France, though it is smaller. This Rococo palace now sees more than 2 million people a year.

The park that surrounds the palace is also a gorgeous sight to see. The palace sits at the top of a terraced vineyard, and at the bottom of this hill is the Great Fountain. Throughout the park, you’ll see flower beds, various statues, and more fountains.

Taking a day trip to Potsdam from Berlin is very popular for good reasons, and there are so many other palaces to see there. This is one of the most popular day trips from Berlin, and seeing Sanssouci Palace is a must.

Sanssouci Palace is located in Sanssouci Park, and the closest train station is Bahnhof Potsdam Charlottenhof. Check out how to get to Potsdam from Berlin.

A great way to visit Sanssouci Palace is on a guided tour of Potsdam from Berlin. Book a tour here.

Spandau Citadel

Spandau Citadel (Zitadelle Spandau in German) is a very well-preserved military fortress and one of the best examples of Renaissance era defenses anywhere in Europe. It was built in 1559 atop a medieval fort on an island where the Havel and the Spree Rivers meet, making it the oldest building in Berlin.

It was intended to protect the town of Spandau, now part of the German capital itself. Imposing and built of red bricks, it’s certainly an impressive castle, and one of my favorite things to do in Berlin.

The Spandau Citadel is located in the Spandau district in northwest Berlin, and the closest Ubahn station is U Zitadelle.

>>Read about the best landmarks in Germany.

Peacock Island Castle

The Castle on Peacock Island is named after Pfaueninsel, the islet in the River Havel where it is located. It’s in the southwest corner of Berlin, but it’s so close to the Brandenburg line, you’ll feel like you’re in another world.

This romantic, fairytale palace was constructed on behalf of Friedrich Wilhelm II in 1797 and purposely built in the style of a derelict Roman style villa. Though the walls seem to be made of white marble, they’re actually just painted wood.

Today the palace – part of one of Berlin’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – is a charming spot to enjoy not just the palace but also its picturesque, natural setting.

Though the castle is closed for renovations, it’s still impressive to see from the outside. And while exploring the island, you really might see peacocks wandering around.

To get there, take the Sbahn line S1 or S7 to S Wannsee, and then take the 218 bus to Pfaueninsel stop, and then hop on the ferry. The ferry is not part of Berlin’s transport system, so you’ll have to pay for a ticket, but it also counts as your entrance ticket onto the island.

>>Check out these fun weekend trips from Berlin.

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>>Planning a trip to Germany? Check out my Germany travel packing list with tips for what to wear in Germany.

Burg Vischering

One of the most impressive and important castles in the Münsterland region of northwestern Germany is Burg Vischering, which dates back to the 13th century. Due to the area’s lack of hills, many castles were built with large moats and intricate waterways for protection, and Vischering is no exception.

One of the original reasons for the construction of the castle was to defend the Bishop of Münster’s territory. Thereafter, it became a residential castle, survived a major 16th century fire and World War II bombing, and was transformed into a museum in the 1970s.

Entering the grounds, you walk over a bridge to an island which has several outbuildings including a bakery and restaurant. Over the next bridge is the entrance to the ring-shaped castle and center courtyard.

Inside, a museum of three floors displays castle history and restoration, as well information about other castles in the region.

Nearby, the cute town of Lüdinghausen invites you to stroll their cobbled streets lined with shops and half-timbered houses. In town lies a second attraction – Burg Lüdinghausen.

Another beautiful castle with a picturesque moat, Burg Lüdinghausen is used for social and cultural events. Though it does not have a museum or rooms to visit, the park is a fantastic place for a rest on a warm day.

Located in Lüdinghausen between Münster and Dortmund, you can reach the Burg Vischering castle in under an hour by train from either city. A more interesting way to reach the castle is via bike along the 100-Schlösser-Route, Münsterland’s 1000 kilometer long cycling trail divided into 4 loops from Münster with dozens of castles and palaces dispersed along the way.

Recommended by Christine from Chris-Crossing Germany.

Schloss Schwerin

If you’re hunting for a stunning castle in Germany, it doesn’t get more picturesque than Schloss Schwerin in northern Germany.

Located east of Hamburg and a 2.5 hour car or train ride north of Berlin, Schloss Schwerin is in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and sits on its own island surrounded by enchanting gardens designed in the 19th century. The exterior of the castle was even featured in the 2017 film “The Kingsman: Golden Circle.”

Schloss Schwerin emerged with humble beginnings—its first record was as a fort back in 973 AD, long before Hollywood laid its eyes on it. Today there are more than 650 rooms within the castle, although a tour will only take you through around a dozen of them.

The most impressive is The Grand Duke’s Throne room—with ornate floors, gold from top to bottom, giant cast-iron doors, and a chandelier that will leave you dizzy with its brilliance.

Plan your visit on a sunny spring or summer day and take advantage of having a picnic on the gardens, or if you visit during the fall, plan to get there just before sunset to see the castle light up during that special golden hour.

Recommended by Jessica from Jessica Lynn Writes.

Read more about taking a day trip from Berlin to Schwerin with details about what to do while you’re there and how to get to Schwerin from Berlin.

Marienburg

Marienburg Castle stands high on a hill 20 km (12.4 miles) out of Hanover. It was built by George V, the last king of Hanover, as a birthday gift for his wife, Queen Marie, hence the name. She wished for a romantic summer residence and this was the king’s manner to show his love and appreciation.

The building was designed in a neo-gothic style, with countless turrets and pinnacles. Its construction started in 1857 and ended with a massive building that has 160 rooms and impressive sky-high watchtowers.

Unfortunately, the royal owners only got to live inside for one year. In 1866, the war between Prussia and Hanover broke out. Hanover was annexed by Prussia, King George fled to Austria and was very soon followed by his beloved wife.

Thus, the beautiful palace was abandoned. It’s believed that nobody touched it until the end of WWII. Seeing the original decorations and furniture in perfect conditions is one of the highlights of a visit to the castle.

Marienburg makes for one of the best day trips from Hanover for people who want to find out more about the authentic royal style of life. In order to get there, you can take the train that runs almost once an hour to Nordstemmen. The journey only takes 15 minutes, but you’ll have to walk or take a taxi 3 more kilometers to the castle.

Recommended by Raluca from Travel With A Spin.

Munich Residenz

For many a trip to Munich includes beer halls, pork knuckle and epic day trips but you can find a stunning Palace right in the middle of the city, Munich Residenz.

Once home to the Monarchs of Bavaria, this amazing 130+ roomed Palace is oftentimes overlooked for castles like Neuschwanstein and Nypmphenburg, but it is just as beautiful.

After WWII the castle had to have some restoration works but the workers on the Palace made sure to stick to the original design of the Palace. The intricate works will take your breath away with each room having something even more special than the last.

Two rooms that cannot be missed are the Antiquarium or the Hall of Antiquities. This domed room is stunning with it’s floor to ceiling paintings and gold trims. As you enter the room you are on a level above the floor so you are able to look down onto the hall.

Once you descend the stairs it is like you are surrounded in art. Hopefully if you are visiting on a slow day you can have the hall entirely to yourself.

The other room you shouldn’t miss is the Ancestral Gallery, a stunning hallway that is matched by no other. The sunlight that comes in from the windows makes the gold lined walls on the other side shine throughout the day.

All the rooms are spectacular but these two seem to cement in your heart why Munich Residence is so beautiful and unique.

Located at the Munich Residenz is the Treasury which is magnificent. Here you will find many priceless jewels, crowns and septres from the Bavarian Royals.

During the winter in Munich you will also find that many of the courtyard at the Munich Residence have small Christmas markets help in them. Here you will find some brilliant food to have, some Glühwein and plenty of locals that are happy to chat with you.

Recommended by Bec from Wyld Family Travel.

Burg Schönburg

What’s better than a romantic castle perched over the Romantic Rhine river with it’s vertical vineyards that’s not only got incredible history, but is also a 4 star hotel with a delicious restaurant and museum?

Burg Schönburg lives up to it’s name meaning “beautiful castle” and is the perfect place to sit and savor a local Riesling after hiking along the left bank of the Rhine river, taking a hop-on, hop-off boat cruise, or at the end of a bike tour through the UNESCO world heritage site of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.

Built in 966, the castle sits atop a cone-like hill over the town of Oberwesel, Germany that is easily accessed by car, train or ferry. The best way is to use the climate friendly train systems and you can find schedules on the DB Bahn website or app or the Mittelrheinbahn site. The extensive ferry system also makes it easy to visit by car.

This medieval castle is located in Western Germany. The closest airport is Frankfurt international but Frankfurt Hahn and Luxembourg airport are less than 1.5 hours away.

This castle features a hotel, restaurant, and torture museum and the possibility to visit dozens of other castles just a short hike, bike, boat or train ride away in this high density castle region.

Recommended by Morgan from Crave the Planet.

Ludwigsburg Residential Palace

Ludwigsburg is located just to the north of Stuttgart and to the west of the Neckar River in Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This picturesque town is home to the Ludwigsburg Residential Palace, the largest Baroque palace in Germany.

Originally built in 1704 for Duke Eberhard Ludwig as a hunting lodge, the main building was soon expanded to reflect his growing power and prestige. The impressive four-winged complex was completed in 1733, and was used as the Duke’s main residence.

Inside the Residential Palace, you will find a large courtyard and gardens, two churches, over 450 rooms, and the oldest preserved palace theater in Europe, all sitting on approximately 80 acres of land.

The interior rooms can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Just keep in mind, that due to the size of the complex and the number of rooms, it is not possible to visit all rooms during the guided tour. Tours are available daily in both English and German.

The palace is also home to 3 different museums: The Ceramics Museum, Fashion Museum, and Children’s Museum. Each can be visited separately with a guided tour.

The Kinderreich, or Children’s Museum, is perfect for families visiting with younger children. Inside, kids can experience what life was like 300 years ago, through displays they can touch and interact with.

And a visit to the Ludwigsburg Residential Palace would not be complete without a stroll through the magnificent gardens. Surrounding the Palace on three sides, the gardens were refurbished in 1954 for the 250th-anniversary celebrations.

Once a symmetrical Baroque-style garden, much of the palace grounds have been transformed and revitalized. Today, a charming Märchengarten (fairy-tale garden) and an incredible orchard can be found along with the Baroque flower gardens.

And when visiting the city between August and November, the palace grounds also host the world’s largest Pumpkin Festival (Kürbisausstellung). There, 450,000 pumpkins elaborately carved into sculptures can be found, as well as delicious pumpkin-based dishes like soups, waffles, or Maultaschen (German dumplings similar to ravioli).

The Ludwigsburg Residential Palace is easily accessed by public transportation. There are also plenty of incredible restaurants and hotels in the vicinity, making it a perfect destination for either a day trip while visiting Stuttgart or a weekend stay.

Recommended by Marianne from Pasta Pretzels & Passports.

Schloss Nymphenburg

Schloss Nymphenburg (also known as Nymphenburg Palace) is a summer residence of the former princes and kings of Bavaria. Currently, the palace from 1675 is one of the biggest attractions in the city of Munich. It’s also one of the largest Baroque palaces in Europe and with a frontal width of 632 meters, it’s even wider than the Palace of Versailles.

Visit the palace to see the enormous marble halls with ceiling frescoes, endless hallways with large paintings, and lots of interesting rooms. In the palace, you can really see what it was like when the princes and kings still lived here.

In addition, the 200-hectare park surrounding the palace is also a sight to see, with statues, ponds, and even a marble cascade. In the garden, you’ll also find several beautifully decorated pavilions and even some museums, like the Marstallmuseum. This is one of the most important museums of carriages in the world.

As you can see, there’s a lot to explore in this palace. It will take a full to if you want to check all of the rooms and the gardens of Schloss Nymphenburg.

To get to Nymphenburg Palace, you can take tram 16 or 17 from Munich Hauptbahnhof. Make sure to get off at Romanplatz. From here it’s only a short walk to the palace.

Recommended by Jacoba from Op Reis Mit Co.

Kaiserpfalz in Goslar

The Kaiserpfalz in Goslar (English: Emperor’s Palace) is probably one of the lesser-known palaces in Germany. Nevertheless, a visit here is no less rewarding. Because just historically, this magnificent building is one of the most important in the country.

The historical palace was built more than 1,000 years ago and was the meeting place of many influential German emperors for a long time. For more than 200 years, several imperial assemblies were held here, where officials made important decisions.

Inside the palace, there is a small chapel where it is said that the heart of Emperor Henry III is kept because “his heart should always belong to Goslar.” But also the massive painting of Herman Wislicenus from the 19th century, which represents the history of Rome and is located in the Aula Regis, leaves no one unimpressed. It is hardly surprising then that so many couples from all over Germany get married in the registry office of the Imperial Palace.

The Imperial Palace is truly impressive from the outside as well as the inside and attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is considered one of the main sights of the city of Goslar and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Town.

In general, a visit to Goslar is worthwhile when visiting the region or the surrounding Harz Mountains. Walk through the city’s narrow streets, past historic half-timbered houses, and let yourself be enchanted by the city’s medieval charm.

Recommended by Vicki from Vicki Viaja.

Monschau Castle

For a beautiful and lesser-known castle in Germany, visit the cute cobblestoned town of Monschau and the Monschau Castle. It’s a perfect place for a day trip, to spend a few hours if passing through or even for a whole weekend in Monschau.

Monschau Castle is easy to reach once in the German region of Aachen, with the castle easily reachable from the center of Monschau. It is walkable with a steep climb from the center, as its up the hill – so parking your car closer near the top is also possible for those who cannot handle the climb.

The castle was once a strategic fortress dating back to 1217. By 1543 it was besieged by Emperor Charles V, who ended up stealing items and plundering the town of Monschau, back to the basics.

By the 19th century, this beautiful castle was owned by a private resident but with it falling into ruins, not much had happened during this time. However by the 20th century, Rhine province government took over and Monschau Castle now stands proudly at the top of the town with a purpose.

Since World War One and even today, the castle partially is used as a youth hostel, supporting those who need help. However, in the Summer period, Monschau Castle is the host location for Monschau Festival.

This festival is when famous orchestras and well-known artists perform in the courtyard area, bringing music to the beautiful town of Monschau. It’s a beautiful time to visit best for this!

Recommended by Zoe from Together In Transit.

Burg Ramstein

Burg Ramstein, also called Ramstein Castle, is located in Kordel near the Roman old city of Trier. This castle is located on a 182-meter sandstone rock on the edge of the Meulenwald forest. The architectural style is typical Archbishop Baldwin (1285-1354).

The Castle was built between 883 and 915 and has often been occupied during wars. This is because the castle was strategically located for the trade routes that existed at the time.

The castle is unique to see when you consider that many battles have taken place there. In 1689 Burg Ramstein was destroyed and only the 25-meter high residential tower remained.

The partially intact defensive walls still show the remains of sitting areas, fireplaces, and stairs. Because the castle has fallen into disrepair, it is not possible to see the castle from the inside anymore, but you can still walk past the castle, which is still wonderful to see.

The castle ruins can be visited freely, but it is privately owned by the Moll family, who also run the hotel-restaurant “Burg Ramstein” with the same name.

The best thing about Burg Ramstein is that you can combine it with one of the most beautiful hikes in Germany called Römerpfad. This hike is 10 kilometers and takes you past many sights from the Roman era and beautiful waterfalls.

The route takes about 3 hours to walk and is moderate in difficulty. You can do this route with children. The hike starts at the parking lot Ramsteiner Weg 1. Once arrived, the route is indicated by signs.

Recommended by Alexander from Travel Your Memories.

Neuschwanstein Castle

The Neuschwanstein Castle is arguably one of the most famous castles in all of Germany, if not even the entire world! This “German Cinderella Castle” is something straight from the fairy tales with its tall spires, mountain backdrop, and demanding presence high on a cliff.

It is nestled in the idyllic Bavarian Alps making a Munich to Neuschwanstein day trip very easy. You can be to Neuschwanstein from Munich both by car (less than 2 hours) or public transportation (less than 3 hours) or even take one of the many day trip tours that are available.

This “Mad King Ludwig” Castle is one of the Bavarian King’s most beautiful creations. However, it was never fully finished before his untimely death, which is why the tour inside actually only shows about 14 rooms!

While at Neuschwanstein, be sure to also visit its next door neighbor, the Hohenschwangau Castle (also from King Ludwig and a much more “lived in” castle and well worth a tour).

While visiting Neuschwanstein, you can take a carriage ride up to the castle, take picture-perfect photos from the Marienbrücke, or even hike the gorge below. Or if you are a dare devil, head to the nearby Tegelberg Cable Car and go paragliding over the Schloss!

The only way to see the inside of Neuschwanstein Castle is on a tour. Since the castle sees over 1 million people a year, it’s highly advised to reserve tickets in advance so that you guarantee a tour.

Recommended by LeAnna from Wander In Germany.

Hohenschwangau

The original Hohenschwangau Castle was built in the 12th century, but abandoned in the 16th century. In 1832 Crown Prince Maximilian of Bavaria bought the ruins. He rebuilt it in 5 years’ time, in a romantic neo gothic summer castle.

Hohenschwangau is located in Southern Germany, close to the border with Austria. The castle is opposite to the world famous Neuschwanstein Castle. The castle is in the town of Hohenschwangau near Füssen.

Although it’s fairy tale like neighbor Neuschwanstein gets the most attention, Hohenschwangau is equally as beautiful. With it’s medieval look and yellow colored exterior, Hohenschwangau is an enchanting castle.

The castle has 4 corner turrets, German mythology and the symbol of the swan dominate the decorations. The interior of the castle is in Biedermeier style. There are over 90(!) wall paintings inside the castle.

The castle itself isn’t reachable by car. Parking is in the town on parking lot P4. From there it’s either a 20 minute uphill hike or a carriage ride to the entrance of the castle.

Füssen is reachable by public transport, Hohenschwangau however isn’t. By car take the A7 and then exit Füssen, then it’s another 7 minutes to the castle.

Right now the castle can only be visited on a guided 45-minute tour. Taking pictures inside the castle isn’t allowed. Close to Neuschwanstein Castle is a viewpoint that gives a perfect view of castle Hohenschwangau.

Recommended by Cosette from KarsTravels.

Marksburg Castle

Marksburg Castle is one of the most beautiful castles to visit in Germany. The castle is situated on a hilltop overlooking the small town of Braubach and the Rhine River.

The first structure, which was a stone keep, was built by the Eppstein family in 1100 and later was transformed into a castle. The castle was mainly built for defensing purposes and not as a house for the royalty.

Since then, the castle changed many hands, and in 1900 it was bought by the German Castle Association, a private association in charge of preserving castles around the country. What is interesting is that from the many castles on the Rhine, the castles of Marksburg and Katz are the only ones that have never been destroyed.

Visiting the castle is very easy and there are many options available. By public transport, you can take from Koblenz which is only 16 km away, the train or the bus to Braubach. Once you are there you follow the signs to the castle. It is a 20 min walk uphill. If you travel by car, there is a parking lot just outside the entrance of the castle.

The castle can only be visited as part of a guided tour that lasts 50 minutes. There are tours every quarter of an hour between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tours in English start at 1 pm.

Recommended by Chrysoula from Historic European Castles.

Burg Eltz

The Eltz Castle, or Burg Eltz, is a medieval castle often recognized as one of the most beautiful landmarks in Germany. Its unique history dates back to the 12th century, incredibly surviving the many wars the region has seen over the previous decades.

Today, visitors can come marvel at the unique architecture of the castle, which remains under the ownership of the original Eltz family for an astounding 30+ generations. Be sure to come early to beat the crowds and ensure you capture the iconic photo from the castle’s footbridge with the towering spires behind you.

After your visit inside the castle, there’s a lovely hiking trail that circles the grounds, with various lookout points in the woods. The trails around the castle are well sign posted and aren’t too difficult. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the surrounding hills are lush and green and tours are open and running.

You can find Eltz Castle located equidistant to Cochem and Koblenz in the Eifel Region, a locale that’s easiest to reach by car. It’s possible to arrive via train or bus as well, although the route options are limited.

Most trains leave from Koblenz or Trier and stop at the Moselkern Station where you can then hike the 5km to the castle or take a taxi. The RegioRadler Burgen bus is also an option that leaves from Treis-Karden.

Admission is €12 for adults, and the interior of the castle closes for the winter typically between late November to late March.

Recommended by Brit from Life of Brit.

Mespelbrunn Schloss

A quick hour drive out of Frankfurt takes you to one of the quaintest and most charming castles in all of Germany, Mespelbrunn Schloss. A small castle, it has retained its noble character throughout the years.

Rewarding one of his knights during a skirmish with the Czechs, the Archbishop of Mainz gave the land to Herman Echter, and at one point the family Echter merged with the family Ingelheim. This family still owns the castle to this day, and has kept it original and true to its time period and station.

This quaint castle, Mespelbrunn is small and easy to get around. There are tours offered every hour for a small fee. Touring the castle and grounds will not take more than an hour or so.

There is a small restaurant on site that is great for lunch, or at least some coffee and cake, at the Pferdestall. While meandering and enjoying the moated schloss, take time to wander down some of the paths on the grounds as well.

People have been visiting Mespelbrunn for centuries, and one of the most famous were the Brothers Grimm. It is rumored that they drew their inspiration for the story of Rapunzel from Mespelbrunn as its tower is tall and formidable.

The easiest way to get to Mespelbrunn is driving the A3. However, taking the train is also possible. Buy a ticket to Aschaffenburg, then take Bus 40 to Mespelbrunn town, stopping at the “Abzw. Schloss – Mespelbrunn” bus stop. From there it’s a quick ten minute walk to the castle.

Recommended by Corinne Vail from Reflections Enroute.

>>Read: How to Get to Frankfurt From Berlin: Train, Bus, & Flight Options

Burg Rheinstein

Burg Rheinstein is a beautiful castle in Germany perched on the edge of a rocky outcrop high above the river in the Middle Upper Rhine Valley. Originally built in the early 1300s for its strategic location overlooking the river, and fully renovated in the 19th century by Prince Frederick of Prussia, it’s very well-preserved example of a classic medieval German castle.

The castle comes complete with working drawbridge, a stunning chapel with an elaborate Gothic altarpiece, and the impressive Knight’s Hall with 3-D paintings and beautiful stained-glass windows. In the Burgundy Garden, you’ll find a 500-year old grape vine that’s still growing Burgundy grapes today!

The castle, which is privately owned, has a museum, gift shop, restaurant, and small B and B with two rooms. If you stay overnight, be warned that the castle does have (friendly) ghosts. The Kleiner Weinprinz restaurant has a patio area where you can sit and look out over the Rhine River and the surrounding countryside.

Burg Rheinstein is open March through November, plus for special Christmas events in December. It’s located near the village of Trechtingshausen, where there’s a train station. The nearest large town is Mainz, just 30 minutes by train from Trechtingshausen.

You can walk (30 minutes) or take a taxi from the village station to the castle. Burg Rheinstein is also a stop on the popular river cruises through the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, and you can get off, visit the castle (be warned – it’s a steep climb), then hop back on the next boat.

Recommended by James Ian from Travel Collecting.

Schloss Celle

Schloss Celle is beautiful castle located in Lower Saxony in the small Germany city of Celle. Schloss Celle was one of the residences of the House of Brunswick-Lüneburg.

Built originally as a simple castle around 1315, the castle was expanded is size and elegance over several centuries. The Dukes of Brunswick-Lüneburg used the castle as their main residence from the 14th century until the early 18th century. During the 19th century the Schloss Celle was the summer residence of the Kings of Hanover.

There are many ways to enjoy visiting the castle. The residence museum is open Tuesdays – Sundays with hours varying by season. Public guided tours or booked tours are also offered.

The Schloss Celle is a popular wedding venue and can be used for other events, concerts, and ceremonies. The Celle Palace Theater has over 400 performances per year and is one of the oldest working theaters in Germany. Enjoy great food at the “Theaterkeller” after a performance or the “Kaminzimmer.”

The Palace Chapel is beautiful a great example of Renaissance Art. The Palace Park is filled with botanical trees from around the world in order to ensure that there are beautiful trees and plants in all seasons of the year.

Celle is located in Lower Saxony located on the Aller River. Celle is located around 50 km from both Hanover and Brunswick. Celle can be reached by car from either city in a little less than 1 hour. Celle can also be reached by the S7 S-bahn or the RE3 train from Hanover.

Recommended by Christina from Ragain Adventures.

Heidelberg Castle

Perched on a hill overlooking the fairytale town of Heidelberg, the charming Heidelberg Castle has played an important role in the region of Baden-Württemberg for over 800 years. While it now lies in partial ruins, the castle used to be a distinguished example of Renaissance architecture (though there are several other periods of architecture represented in the structure).

Besides being damaged in the 30 Years War during the 1600s, the castle also suffered damage due to lightning strikes in the 1500s and 1700s – ultimately making the castle unlivable.

While subsequent generations attempted to restore the castle to its glory, it was never fully completed and still lies partially ruined. However, these ruins are protected so future generations can enjoy the beauty of Heidelberg Castle!

One of the most famous castles in Germany, Heidelberg Castle is easily reached by public transportation. There are several local and long-distance trains going to Heidelberg daily. Additionally, for a small fee, there is a funicular in the Old Town of Heidelberg to take you up to the castle.

Besides walking through the ruins of the castle, you can also walk through its extensive gardens, visit the world’s largest wine barrel, and visit the Apothecary Museum in one of the buildings.

For an extra special occasion, visit Heidelberg Castle during one of the “Castle Lightings” in the summer. This stunning display of lights and fireworks done three times each summer commemorates when the castle caught fire.

Recommended by Jordan from Hamburg and Beyond.

Lichtenstein Castle

Like many castles in Germany, Lichtenstein Castle looks as though it’s been plucked straight out of a fairytale. The castle is located on top of an escarpment, sat in a walled fortress, with a perched tower overlooking the valley below.

The only access to the tower is via the drawbridge. Lichtenstein gets its name from the word ‘Lichter’ which means bright and ‘Stein’ which translates to stone.

Lichtenstein Castle is located above the small town on Honau and the river Echaz. It’s a bit remote, so getting here by public transport could prove tricky. Ideally, you’ll want to include this as part of a road trip around Germany.

At the site of Lichtenstein, you’re blessed with two castles, the one you see today, and the remains of where the original castle stood, which is a short walk along the cliff. Not much of the original castle remains, but you can still make out the foundations and where rooms were situated. The original site dates back to the 1100s and was destroyed twice.

You can enter the castle grounds for a small fee and wander about on your own. To go cross the drawbridge and enter the castle, you need to book onto the tour.

They allow one group in at a time, so if you plan to do this, book a space on the tour as soon as you arrive, and then explore the outside areas while you’re waiting for your time slot.

Recommended by Becki from Meet Me In Departures.

Cochem Castle

Soaring over a picturesque valley of river Moselle, the 11th century Castle Cochem boasts stunning panoramic views and rich history.

The area where the castle stands today was settled as early as Celtic and Roman times, and the castle was built around the 11th century by the palatinate count Ezzo. Later on, the German king seized the castle.

Cochem became an imperial property with ministers administering and using the title of ‘Lord of the Castle’. In the 17th century, the French king – King Louis XIV, invaded this area of Germany and the town of Cochem, including the castle, was almost completely destroyed.

Only in the 19th century, when an affluent German businessman, Mr Louis Revene, bought the castle, did the restoration works get started. The castle was rebuilt and transformed from medieval into a Neo-Gothic Romantic masterpiece.

Today, Cochem Castle is open to the public for a guided tour of its impressive chambers and courtyards. The best way to enjoy it is by booking a “Knights Feast” experience that includes a tour and a generous evening meal with entertainment.

The village of Cochem is also famous for its vineyards and excellent wine, and the best time to visit is the autumn during the wine season. Wine tasting during that time is available throughout the village, and you can enjoy a glass or two sitting on the river banks enjoying the picturesque settings.

Cochem is located in western Germany, 2 hours drive west of Frankfurt. You can also take a train from Frankfurt with a change in Koblenz.

Recommended by Mal from Raw Mal Roams.

Hohenzollern Castle

If you are looking for a true medieval, grand sweeping castle then the Hohenzollern Castle is a must-visit. Think turrets, impenetrable walls, and a location that would scare off any invaders – atop Mount Hohenzollern. The castle in its form today can be traced back to the 19th century as is clear from the German Romanticism style in which it was built.

Hohenzollern Castle is still privately owned by the Prussian Royal Family, who in fact we have to thank for the building of the castle. It never changed hands, and to this day the Prince still takes up his residence here now and then.

The castle can be visited, tickets are available online and cost €22. The castle is located in the Baden Wurttemberg province of Germany, around a 90-minute drive from Karlsruhe and a 30-minute drive from the well-known Liechtenstein castle.

Consider renting a car for the day (roughly €28) to drive around the various castles in the province. Drive up to either of the two parking lots (parking is included in your entrance fee) and jump on the shuttle bus to the entrance gate.

Alternatively, hike up 20 minutes from the parking lot through a dirt path that runs parallel to the main road (used for the shuttle bus). The hike has stairs and is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Recommended by Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer.

Surprisingly this list only covers a few of the many beautiful castles in Germany to visit. There are so many, we couldn’t include them all! But hopefully you found a few to include on your trip to Germany.

Berlin Travel Resources

I want you to have the best trip to Berlin and Germany, and hopefully this guide to the best castles in Germany is helpful. But there are lots more tips on the site!