A visit to Germany would be incomplete without at least a few visits to one of the thousands of castles in the country. Ranging from large, sprawling affairs replete with all the castle goodies like merlons and buttresses, to smaller, lesser-known fortresses; relics of medieval times that still exist to this day. Whatever castle visitors are in the market for, Germany’s got it.
However, for those castle-philes who want to get the full-on Brothers Grimm experience while trekking through Germany, there are plenty of turret-y, tower-packed glories that look like they’ve leaped from the pages of one of the Grimm’s famous fairy tales—and are definitely worth a visit while staying in this beautiful, historic country.
8 Nuremburg Castle (Nürnberger Burg)
Anyone visiting Nuremberg will want to check out this historic castle, which dates to the 11th century. Known as one of ‘the most important surviving medieval fortresses in Europe,’ this castle housed German royalty and emperors for 500 years or more.
- Address: Auf der Burg, Nürnberg
- Don’t Miss: The lovely chapel which dates back to the 13th century; the famous Deep Well (reaching more than 150-feet down); displays of medieval weapons and armor
7 Marburg Castle (Marburger Schloss)
Rising majestically above the town of Marburg, this castle has stood the test of time since it was originally fortified during medieval times. A fine example of Gothic and late-Gothic elements, Marburg’s origins date back as early as 1000 AD; though the current castle is from the 13th century. It’s said that the castle was an inspiration to some of the Grimm’s stories.
- Address: Schloss 1 Marburg, Hess
- Don’t Miss: The Museum of Art and Cultural History (located within the castle); fortifications dating from as early as the 9th century; the great hall, one of the best examples of Central European Gothic castle architecture
6 Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz)
Visitors will love this gorgeous castle positioned idyllically in the midst of some of the most photographable scenery around. Take in the picturesque views while admiring this historic castle, which has belonged to the Kempenich family since the 12th century. Eltz is truly one of the most iconic castles in Germany.
- Address: Eltz Castle, Burg-Eltz-Strasse 1, Wierschem
- Don’t Miss: The Knights Hall, complete with suits of armor; the private collection of over 500 historic objects; numerous photo ops of the turrets, cobbled footbridge, and surrounding countryside
5 Lichtenstein Castle (Schloss Lichtenstein)
This 19th-century castle is located in Baden-Württemburg; perched over 2,500-feet above sea level on a rocky ledge. Though this site was the home to other, earlier castles, this one was built later. Complete with a narrow bridge, a tall round tower, and turrets a-plenty, this neo-Gothic beauty is full of storybook charm.
- Address: Schloss Lichtenstein 1, Lichtenstein
- Don’t Miss: Examples of classic castle architecture like the barbican, the bailey, and the bastions; the architectural details and beautiful Romantic decorations and paintings; examples of 15th and 16th century painted glass in the chapel.
4 Wartburg Castle (Schloss Wartburg)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this castle is lauded for its historical significance. Situated high above the town of Eisenach, it was originally built in the late 12th century, though it was reconstructed faithfully in the 19th century. An important monument to the feudal period in Europe, it is also known as the place where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German.
- Address: Auf der Wartburg 1, Eisenach
- Don’t Miss: The medieval drawbridge and battlements; the over 9,000(!) historic collections including works by Lucas Cranach the Elder; The Palais, the largest part of the castle, representative of Romanesque design and style
3 Heidelberg Castle (Heidelberger Schloss)
A stunning example of German Renaissance architecture, this hillside gem commands attention from its vantage point above the surrounding countryside. Dating from around the 14th century; it is the site of several past fires and has not been restored—making it the largest castle ruin in the country.
- Address: Schlosshof 1, Heidelberg
- Don’t Miss: The Pharmacy Museum; the giant 23-foot barrel in the cellar; the round-trip funicular ride; fireworks displays in the summer
2 Schwerin Castle (Schweriner Schloss)
The landscaping alone is worth a visit to this enchanting castle that is situated on Lake Schwerin—in fact, it is only accessible via a bridge connecting it to Schwerin. A great example of Romantic Historicism, its distinctive spires and rounded cupolas make for castle viewing at its finest. Though the castle is thought to date back to the 10th century, the current iteration was built in the 19th century (with the oldest remaining parts dating from the 16th century).
- Address: Lennéstraße 1, Schwerin
- Don’t Miss: The throne room; the 16th-century defensive bastions; the fairy tale landscapes, including Lake Schwerin
1 Wernigerode Castle (Schloss Wernigerode)
Located in the Harz Mountains, Wernigerode was built in the Middle Ages as a stopping place for emperors and their entourages. Though transformed into a defensive fortress in the 16th century; it was renovated extensively in the 19th century after sustaining significant damage in the Thirty Years War. As a result, the castle is a blend of styles, ranging from Gothic to North German Historic.
- Address: Am Schloß 1, Wernigerode
- Don’t Miss: Three gardens and parks with lavishly landscaped terraces; explore the castle’s 50 rooms and admire the opulent surroundings and luxe decor; check out the smokers’ salon and castle church, which can be rented for special events