Germany gives millions of tourists hundreds of reasons to visit. Some are drawn to the beer halls of Oktoberfest. Others are charmed by the masterpieces of the Dresden Gallery. And some prefer to admire modern technology rather than antiques. But Germany's castles are definitely one of the top reasons to visit this country.
On the way to the tourist's heart, their unique spirit cannot be stopped by powerful and high walls. Each castle reflects the genius of its architect, but we will still venture to compile a list of sites that are a must-see from among the great many. However, before we do so, we should point out that a visa is required — and the best option is a guest visa to Germany.
Neuschwanstein Castle
And, of course, we will start the list with the most famous and magical representative of German architecture. Not knowing about this castle is a mortal sin for a tourist. It is one of the most romantic locations in Germany. A hint for those looking for a place to propose marriage. You can even find tours from Minsk.
Neuschwanstein is located in the far south of Bavaria. The castle was built on the orders of Bavarian ruler Ludwig II at the end of the 19th century. Interestingly, the enterprising king turned it into a tourist attraction almost immediately. In order to raise the missing funds to complete the construction, the castle was opened to tourists in 1880 and brought in a steady income.
Neuschwanstein includes a knight's hall, a 90-meter tower with a chapel, and a walking park with terraces and a fountain. Illustrations from Wagner's operas and ancient German legends play a key role in the castle's interior. And, of course, swans (Neuschwanstein translates from German as "new swan stone"). Incidentally, this castle was the inspiration for the "Sleeping Beauty Castle" and appears on the Disney logo.
An adult ticket to the castle costs €17.50. Tickets should be purchased at least a week in advance. Information about opening hours here.
Hohenzollern Castle
The ancestral seat of the imperial family of Hohenzollern towers above the Swabian Alps, 50 kilometers from Stuttgart. The castle has much in common with Neuschwanstein. Both castles are practically the same age: Hohenzollern was completed in 1867, and two years later, construction began on its Bavarian counterpart. Like Neuschwanstein, Hohenzollern is the embodiment of the idea of a utopian knight's castle. Due to its mountainous location, Hohenzollern has been nicknamed "the castle in the clouds." If the decor isn't romantic enough, the name certainly makes up for it.
In total, the castle complex comprises 140 rooms. Its main relics are considered to be the crown of the German emperors, the belongings of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, and a huge collection of weapons.
When visiting the castle, please check the announcements on official website. There is a chance to attend unusual events at the complex: falconry days, live music concerts, and even entire shows, such as "The Royal Winter Fairy Tale." An adult ticket to the castle costs €22.
Heidelberg Castle
Heidelberg has long been known as the German equivalent of Oxford, a university town with the best educational institutions in the country. This treasure trove of knowledge found refuge under the wing of royalty—for a long time, the Palatinate region was the residence of German kings. While students huddled in dormitories, royalty built one of the largest castles in Europe at that time—Heidelberg Castle.
Unlike the two castles above, Heidelberg Castle is an old-timer. It was first mentioned in the 13th century. Eight centuries of wars and cataclysms (the castle was destroyed at least twice by lightning strikes) did not spare the building, so it has not survived in as pristine a condition as Neuschwanstein. This makes it all the more interesting to see the two faces of the castle: the restored Friedrichsbau and the ruins of the remaining part.
Decide which one you like better after visiting. An adult ticket to the castle costs nine euros. Tourists are welcome every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. More details here.
Schwerin Castle
We move from west to north. One glance at the next castle is enough to understand why it is called the "Neuschwanstein of the North." It has the same grace and romance in its appearance, the same airy forms. However, unlike its Bavarian counterpart "nestled in the mountains," Schwerin Castle chose to locate itself literally on an island. Only a bridge connects it to Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
What's more, Schwerin Castle is almost a thousand years older than Neuschwanstein Castle. It was first mentioned in 973. Of course, back then it looked much more squat and imposing, as times and functions were different.
When planning your trip, keep in mind that the castle is closed on Mondays. Full opening hours are available on the website. Admission for adults is €8.50.
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Wartburg Castle
For almost a year, this castle, located in Thuringia in eastern Germany, was the refuge of German reformer Martin Luther. It was here that he translated the Bible into German.
Germany's national pride, the first in the country to be included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, has existed since 1067. Some parts of the castle still bear traces of that distant era. Its powerful Romanesque fortifications, combined with its location at an altitude of 400 meters, gave enemies little hope of capturing it.
In addition to standard tours, you can visit the castle's traditional Christmas market or listen to Wagner's opera "Tannhäuser" in the most appropriate setting. You can learn about the castle's history and interesting milestones here here. The ticket price is nine euros.
Kochem Castle (Reichsburg)
Another handsome building originating from the imperial Palatinate. Like many of its "colleagues," it appeared in the Middle Ages, in the 12th century, went through periods of destruction and oblivion, and was rebuilt in the 19th century.
The castle fits perfectly into its surroundings. After all, there are practically no new buildings in the town of Cochem. And this combination of old residential buildings with the castle towering above them recreates the feudal images of the past.
If you've made it to Cochem, don't miss out on a tour of the interior for only €8.50. The best time to visit Reichsburg Castle is in early August. The castle hosts a medieval festival with a craft and food market, performances by poets and musicians.
But the most unique offer is participation in medieval feast, which takes place every Friday and Saturday. Feel like a welcome guest and try dishes made according to ancient recipes for €59.
Elz Castle
Another Palatinate castle, Eltz, never saw an invader set foot on its grounds. Its tricky location in the foothills hindered conquerors, but now the views delight tourists.
Interestingly, the castle is privately owned. It has had the same owners for about 800 years. The aristocrats graciously allow mere mortals to enter the grounds of their ancestral estate. And we can enjoy the castle's beautiful interiors: the knights' hall, the armoury, the original 15th-century kitchen and the treasure chamber with more than 500 exhibits.
The admission ticket includes a tour of the castle and costs €14. The castle is closed to visitors from November 1 to April 1.
Marburg Castle
For prose writers, this castle is interesting because it is one of the oldest in Germany. It was built in Hesse, probably as early as the 10th century. For poets, the castle is important because of the inspiration it gave to the famous German storytellers, the Brothers Grimm. Jacob and Wilhelm studied law at the University of Marburg. Some of the university's lecture halls are still located on the castle grounds. And who knows, maybe it was while daydreaming in one of them that the brothers created Snow White. Some companies offer interesting tours to Germany.
Marburg is part of the "German Fairy Tale Route." The 600-kilometer route connects places where the brothers lived and worked, as well as locations mentioned in their works. It costs just four euros to let the fairy tale into your heart and visit the castle. More information about opening hours here.
Marienburg Castle
The ancestral castle of the rulers of this German land is located 20 kilometers from Hanover. The castle still belongs to the royal house of Hanover, but keeps its doors open to tourists.
The castle owes its creation in 1867 to the heartfelt impulse of King George V, who decided to give such a magnificent gift to his wife, Queen Mary. She loved the property, and Mary turned the castle into her main summer residence.
Don't confuse the German Marienburg with the Polish one, otherwise your navigator will take you far to the east. A ticket to the castle costs €12.50, and the opening hours are listed on the website.
Liechtenstein Castle
No, no, despite its misleading name, it is not located in a small principality, but in Germany. Its name translates as "light stone" and fully reflects the essence of the building.
The castle is located in Baden-Württemberg, an hour's drive from Stuttgart. Liechtenstein came into being during the German construction boom in the mid-19th century. Like everything else that German aristocrats invested in during those years, it was built in a neo-Gothic style reminiscent of a fairy tale. The castle's tall, solitary tower evokes memories of Rapunzel, who seems about to throw down her braids. If you still can't get inside this way, then please purchase a ticket for four euros. Opening hours are here.
