5 Beautiful Castles in Germany for Your First Trip
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It’s easier to plan a trip to Germany’s castles not only by looking at photos but also by considering logistics: some are located in cities, while others require walking, taking a shuttle, or checking seasonal restrictions in advance. Below are five famous castles that are well-suited for a first trip through Germany: Burg Eltz, Schloss Schwerin, Burg Hohenzollern, Schloss Marienburg, and Wartburg Castle.
Burg Eltz: A Medieval Castle in the Elz Valley
Burg Eltz is located near the village of Wirsch in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, in the Eifel region. It’s often included in tours of the Moselle: the castle stands in a forested valley, looks almost like something out of a fairy tale, and doesn’t feel like a museum prop.
The castle is known for having remained in the possession of the Eltz family for centuries and for preserving its medieval appearance. Inside, visitors can see historic interiors, weapons, household items, and art collections. Access to the interior is usually only available as part of a guided tour, and operating hours vary by season.
How to Get There
The most scenic option is a walking route from Wirschheim or nearby parking lots. If you’re traveling without a car, be sure to check the current schedules for trains, buses, and seasonal shuttles in advance: in the rural areas of Rhineland-Palatinate, public transportation may run less frequently than in major cities.
Schloss Schwerin: a palace on an island in the city center
Schloss Schwerin is located on Palace Island in the city of Schwerin, in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. In photos, it looks like a remote, romantic castle surrounded by water and greenery, but in reality, it’s very much an urban attraction: the old town, the lake, and the museums are all within walking distance.
The site’s history dates back to the early Middle Ages, and its current palatial appearance was largely shaped in the 19th century. Today, part of the complex is used by the state parliament, and the museum areas are open to visitors according to a set schedule.
How to Get There
It’s convenient to take the train from Hamburg to Schwerin; travel time depends on the connection you choose. This is a great option for a day trip if you combine a visit to the palace, the gardens, the old town, and a walk by the lake.
Burg Hohenzollern: “The Castle in the Clouds” in Baden-Württemberg
Burg Hohenzollern stands on Mount Hohenzollern in Baden-Württemberg, roughly south of Stuttgart. Because of its elevation and views of the surrounding area, it’s often called one of the most photogenic castles in southwestern Germany.
The current castle was built in the 19th century on the site of earlier fortifications and is linked to the history of the House of Hohenzollern. Tourists come here for the panoramic views, the architecture, the inner courtyard, the chapels, and the museum galleries.
How to Get There
The route usually goes through Hechingen: first by train, then by bus or taxi to the parking lot and entrance area. Before your trip, be sure to check the castle’s official website: shuttle schedules, tours, weather restrictions, and ticket prices may vary by season.
Schloss Marienburg: a romantic neo-Gothic castle near Hanover
Schloss Marienburg is located near Hanover and was built in the 19th century as a romantic residence in the Neo-Gothic style. Its history is linked to King George V of Hanover and Queen Maria: the castle was conceived as a gift for his wife.
It’s especially important to plan this visit carefully. In recent years, access to the interior has been limited due to restoration and construction work, so be sure to check the official visiting status before your trip. Even if the interiors are closed, the area may still be worth exploring from the outside and taking a walk around, but don’t count on a full-fledged tour without checking first.
How to Get There
The route usually starts in Hanover and heads toward Pattensen or Nordstemmen, with the final leg of the journey covered by bus, taxi, or on foot. It’s best to check the current GVH or Deutsche Bahn schedules for specific bus routes, as the old route numbers listed in guidebooks may no longer be valid.
Wartburg: a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking Eisenach
Wartburg Castle is located in Thuringia, overlooking the city of Eisenach, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of Germany’s most significant castles, not only for its architecture but also for its cultural history: Martin Luther hid here and worked on translating the New Testament into German.
The castle combines medieval history, museum galleries, views of the Thuringian Forest, and convenient logistics for travelers without a car. The trip can easily be combined with a stroll through Eisenach.
How to Get There
It’s convenient to take the train to Eisenach, then make your way up to the castle on foot, by bus, or by taxi. It’s best to check bus routes and schedules before your trip, especially in winter and on holidays.
What to Check Before Your Trip
Before visiting any castle in Germany, it’s a good idea to visit the official website and check four things:
- whether the site is open on your selected date;
- Do you need to buy a ticket in advance?
- Is access allowed inside the castle, or only to the grounds?
- How to get there from the nearest station without a car.
For a first trip, the easiest option logistically is Schloss Schwerin or Wartburg Castle. Burg Eltz and Burg Hohenzollern are more dependent on the weather and seasonal transportation, but they offer a more “postcard-perfect” experience. Schloss Marienburg should only be included in your itinerary after checking the current access policies.
