Germany’s landscape is dotted with charming castles that seem plucked from fairy tale pages.
With their soaring towers, intricate architecture, and romantic settings, these magnificent structures transport visitors to a world of fantasy and wonder.
From the iconic Neuschwanstein that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle to hidden gems perched atop misty hills, these castles offer a glimpse into Germany’s rich history and architectural prowess.
Ready to embark on a magical journey through time? Discover our carefully curated list of the 12 most charming fairytale castles in Germany below.
12 Fairytale Castles in Germany to Visit
Here is our list of the 12 best castles in Germany to visit if you love fairytales. Don’t miss the chance to explore these real-life wonders!
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria
Neuschwanstein Castle is undoubtedly one of the most famous castles in Germany.
This 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace, perched atop a rugged hill, inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Visitors flock to marvel at its fairy-tale turrets and picturesque Alpine setting.
Take a guided tour to explore the lavishly decorated interiors, then hike to nearby Marienbrücke for breathtaking views of the castle and surrounding landscape.
2. Hohenzollern Castle, Baden-Württemberg
Hohenzollern Castle, the ancestral seat of the Prussian Royal House, is widely regarded as one of the best castles in Germany. Its stunning hilltop location offers panoramic views of the Swabian Alps.
Explore the castle’s rich history through its museums, which house precious artifacts, including the crown of Wilhelm II. Don’t miss the castle chapel with its beautiful stained glass windows.
3. Eltz Castle, Rhineland-Palatinate
Eltz Castle stands as one of the finest examples of medieval castles in Germany. Remarkably, it has remained in the same family for over 850 years.
Nestled in a valley surrounded by lush forests, this castle appears frozen in time.
Join a guided tour to see the original furnishings and learn about the castle’s fascinating history. The surrounding Eltz Forest offers scenic hiking trails for nature enthusiasts.
4. Lichtenstein Castle, Baden-Württemberg
Often called the “fairy-tale castle of Württemberg,” Lichtenstein Castle is perched dramatically on a clifftop.
While small, it’s considered one of the most beautiful castles in Germany due to its Neo-Gothic style and spectacular location.
Take a guided tour to learn about its history and enjoy breathtaking views of the Echaz Valley and Swabian Alps from its battlements.
5. Sigmaringen Castle, Baden-Württemberg
Sigmaringen Castle, one of Germany’s most impressive old castles, towers over the Danube River. This former seat of the Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen dynasty boasts over 1000 years of history.
Visitors can explore its extensive armory, one of Europe’s largest private collections, and tour luxuriously furnished rooms that showcase the lavish lifestyle of German nobility.
The castle’s imposing facade and strategic hilltop location offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Combined with the charming town of Sigmaringen below, it makes for an unforgettable historical and scenic excursion.
6. Cochem Castle, Rhineland-Palatinate
Cochem Castle, towering over the Moselle River, perfectly blends medieval charm and romantic scenery. Built in the 11th century and later restored, it showcases various architectural styles.
Enjoy guided tours, medieval banquets, and falconry demonstrations. The castle’s location in the heart of the Moselle wine region makes it an ideal base for wine-tasting excursions.
7. Löwenburg Castle, Hesse
Löwenburg Castle, or “Lions Castle,” is a unique gem among German castles. Built in the late 18th century, it was intentionally designed to look like a romantic medieval ruin.
Explore its pseudo-medieval architecture, armory, and portrait gallery. The castle is part of the larger Wilhelmshöhe Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it perfect for a day of exploration.
8. Schloss Drachenburg Castle, North Rhine-Westphalia
Drachenburg Castle, a private villa built in the late 19th century, combines various historical styles to create a fairy-tale appearance. Its location on the Drachenfels hill offers stunning views of the Rhine valley.
Tour the castle’s eclectic interiors, enjoy interactive multimedia presentations about its history, and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens.
9. Wernigerode Castle, Saxony-Anhalt
Perched on a hillside overlooking the town of Wernigerode, this castle is a stunning example of historicist architecture. In the 17th century, it was a medieval fortress transformed into a Baroque-style residence.
Take a guided tour of its luxurious interiors and visit the castle museum. The castle is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Harz Mountains.
10. Marienburg Castle, Lower Saxony
Marienburg Castle, a 19th-century hilltop castle, was built as a romantic summer residence and birthday gift from King George V of Hanover to his wife.
Its Neo-Gothic style and well-preserved interiors make it a must-visit for castle enthusiasts. Guided tours offer insights into the castle’s history and the Hanoverian royal family.
11. Hohenschwangau Castle, Bavaria
While often overshadowed by its famous neighbor Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau Castle holds its own charm. This 19th-century palace was the childhood residence of King Ludwig II.
Its yellow façade and intricate murals depicting German legends create a magical atmosphere. After touring the castle, walk around the nearby picturesque Alpsee lake.
12. Schwerin Castle, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Schwerin Castle, often called the “Neuschwanstein of the North,” is one of Germany’s most impressive and famous castles. Situated on an island in Lake Schwerin, it blends Renaissance, Baroque, and Historicist styles.
Explore the richly decorated state rooms, visit the castle museum, and stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Final Thoughts on The Most Beautiful Castles in Germany
Germany’s fairytale castles offer a magical journey through history, architecture, and stunning landscapes. From the iconic Neuschwanstein to lesser-known gems like Sigmaringen, each castle tells its own enchanting story.
These magnificent structures showcase Germany’s rich cultural heritage and provide unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages.
Ready to dive deeper into Germany’s captivating world of castles and beyond? Visit our Germany Travel Blog for inspiring ideas to make your German adventure unforgettable.
