Of all of Europe, Germany boasts the most impressive castle selection. These spectacular structures are widely considered to be the gems of the nation’s crown. German castles have been a source of great inspiration for centuries. Brother Grimm centers around almost everything German fairy tales, and Walt Disney also used it as a model for the development of Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle!
If you are traveling to Germany, you will need to visit at least one castle and be on your itinerary. This is an incredible pick of the 10 most magical fairytale castles to visit.
10. Löwenburg Castle
Rowenberg Castle, meaning “Lion Castle,” is a romantic medieval castle located in the picturesque Wilhelschege in Berg Park. It is one of the most beautiful castles in the world, but in fact it is a medieval architecture and was built between 1793 and 1801. It served as a leisure palace with a luxurious residential area. (Image by Dennis via Flickr Creative Commons)
Admission Price: 6 euros
position: Cassel
9. WartburgCastle
Built in 1067, Wartberg Castle is one of the oldest castles in Germany. Located 400 meters above the picturesque forested countryside. Wartberg Castle is best known for being the place where Martin Luther was evacuated while translating the New Testament into Germany. The castle is large, impressive and, given its 900-year history, it is one of the most preserved fortresses in the world. (Images by Lawrence Op via Flickr Creative Commons)
Admission Price: 9 euros
position: Iron haha
8. Marksburg Castle
Marksburg is the only medieval castle that has never been destroyed in the central Rhine River. The impressive fortress sits on a cliff mysterious to enemy forces, helping to survive for over 700 years. Many visitors travel to the area for the only reason to see this castle, but the beautiful Rhine Valley also has many other wonders. (Images via Flickr Creative Commons by Rhineland – Pfalz Tourismus)
Admission Price: 6 euros
position: Braubach
7. Albrechitzburg Castle
Albrechtsberg is a magnificent late Gothic castle located on a hill overlooking the Elbe River in the town of Meissen. A fortress was built at this location in 10th The castle of the century and present day was built on the same site 500 years later. A visit to this picturesque location, just 25 km from Dresden, makes for a popular day trip. (Image by Wikimedia Commons)
Admission Price: 8 euros
position: float
6. Reichsburg Kochem Castle
Reichsburg Castle is a landmark of the area and is a distant medieval memory. The castle towers above the scenic town, and was rebuilt after King Louis XIV destroyed the French army in 1689. Reichsburg Castle is spectacularly spectacular to admire from afar, but by travelling and exploring the interior and grounds itself, you can enjoy stunning views of the valley below. (Image by HeribertPohl via Flickr Creative Commons)
Admission Price: 6 euros
position: Cochem
5. Heidelberg Castle
One of the world’s most famous castle ruins, the ruins of Heidelberg Castle are a distinguished landmark in the university’s city. This is another castle destroyed by the French, but it has never been rebuilt to its previous glory. Wandering through the abandoned in the air is an unforgettable experience! (Image by Wikimedia Commons)
Admission Price: 6 euros
position: Heidelberg
4. Liechtenstein Castle
Sitting unsteady on the face of a steep cliff, Liechtenstein Castle looks like something directly from the film! Although small, it is arguably one of the most impressive castles to see in Europe, but not as well known as others. Its nickname is “Neuschwanstein’s younger brother,” following Germany’s most iconic castle, but most international tourists don’t know about it. It is one of the most majestic in the country and is a simple day trip from Stuttgart. (Image by Wikimedia Commons)
Admission Price: 7 euros
position: whol
3. Schweriner Castle
Built on a small island on Lake Schwerin, the castle was built on the site of the old Slavic castle, which existed there over a thousand years ago. Today it is used as a seat in the provincial legislative assembly of Pomerania, western Mecklenburg, and is considered one of the most beautiful palaces in Northern Europe. (Mathias’ images lie through Flickr Creative Commons)
Admission Price: 8 euros
position: Schwerin
2. Hohenzorn Castle
Built in a similar fashion to the medieval knight castle Hogenzolaan, located south of Germany, it is home to the country’s most impressive castle. Built on Mount Hohensoln, the castle offers a wide view of the surrounding countryside, making it one of Germany’s most beautiful castles. This castle is an important part of Prussian history and is essentially the origin of the Prussian lineage. (Image from Playlight55 via Flickr Creative Commons)
Admission Price: 7 euros
position: Hohenzollern
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle, the most famous of all European castles, is a magical sight to be seen. Built in 1869, this magnificent castle was built not for defence but as a private summer retreat for King Ludwig II. The castle’s setting is no longer idyllic. Perched in one of the most beautiful valleys in southern Bavaria and overlooking the Alps, it is one of the most photographed sites in all of Germany.
Admission Price: 12 euros
position: feet