If you love history, then Germany is the perfect travel destination for you. The country is home to some of the most beautiful palaces and castles in Europe. From the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle to the grandiose Berlin Palace, there are plenty of incredible sights to see.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the 20 best palaces and castles in Germany. Trust us, you’re going to want to add all of these places to your travel itinerary!
1. Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle is a fairy-tale castle located in the Swabian Alb region of southern Germany. The castle was built in the early 19th century by Duke Wilhelm of Urach, who modeled it after the castles he had seen in Tales from the Arabian Nights. Today, Lichtenstein Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany, and it is considered one of the country’s most beautiful castles.
The castle’s picturesque setting, medieval-style architecture, and lush gardens make it a truly magical place. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and towers, or take a stroll through the gardens. If you’re looking for a fairytale experience, Lichtenstein Castle is definitely worth a visit.
Address: Schloss Lichtenstein 1, 72805 Lichtenstein, Germany
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2. Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is located in the southwest of the country, in the state of Bavaria, the castle was built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II. Although it was never completed, its dramatic setting and fairytale appearance have made it one of the most recognizable castles in the world. Visitors can explore the castle’s opulent interiors, including the throne room, chambers, and halls.
There are also guided tours of the extensive grounds, which offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. With its unique blend of history and fantasy, Neuschwanstein Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting Germany.
Address: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, 87645 Schwangau, Germany
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3. Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle is a 19th-century palace in southern Germany. It was the childhood home of King Ludwig II of Bavaria and serves as a tourist attraction today. The castle is located on a hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria.
Construction of the palace began in 1832 at the site of an old castle that had been destroyed in 1799. King Maximilian II commissioned the project, and his son Ludwig II later expanded it. The castle’s Gothic Revival style is evident in its turrets, battlements, and Gargoyles. Inside, the palace is decorated with opulent furniture, tapestries, and works of art.
Visitors can tour the rooms where Ludwig II grew up, as well as the bedroom where he died under mysterious circumstances in 1886. The castle also has a museum dedicated to the life and times of the “fairytale king.” Hohenschwangau Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany and receives over 600,000 visitors each year.
Address: Alpseestraße 30, 87645 Schwangau, Germany
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4. Hohenzollern Castle
Hohenzollern Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany. The castle is located on a hilltop in the southwest of the country, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can tour the castle grounds, which include a museum, gardens, and a chapel.
The castle also hosts special events throughout the year, such as musical performances and art exhibitions. With its fairytale architecture and beautiful setting, Hohenzollern Castle is definitely one of the best palaces and castles in Germany.
Address: 72379 Burg Hohenzollern, Germany
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5. Heidelberg Palace
Heidelberg Palace is a ruined palace located in the city of Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. The palace was constructed in the 14th century and served as the primary residence for the Electors of the Palatinate for almost 200 years. It was badly damaged during the Nine Years’ War and subsequent French bombardment in 1689 and has been in a ruined state ever since.
Despite its condition, the palace is still one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany, attracting more than 1.3 million visitors each year. The castle is situated on top of Heidelberg Mountain, overlooking the city of Heidelberg and the River Neckar. Its position affords visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle grounds also contain a number of other attractions, including a beer garden, a playground, and a Christmas market.
Address: Schlosshof 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
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6. Burghausen Castle
Burghausen Castle is one of the largest castles in the world, and it is also one of the most beautiful. Located in the town of Burghausen, in Bavaria, Germany, the castle consists of multiple buildings that were built over a period of centuries. The castle complex includes a number of museums and galleries, as well as stunning gardens.
Visitors can also enjoy views of the surrounding countryside from the castle walls. Although it is not as well-known as some of Germany’s other castles, Burghausen Castle is definitely worth a visit.
Address: Burg 48, 84489 Burghausen, Germany
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7. Cochem Castle
Cochem Castle is a beautifully preserved castle that dates back to the 11th century. The castle was originally built by the Counts of Cochem as their seat of power, and it later served as a residence for the Elector of Trier. Today, the castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and towers.
The castle grounds also offer stunning views of the Rhine River and the surrounding countryside. With its well-preserved architecture and scenic setting, Cochem Castle is one of the best palaces and castles in Germany.
Address: Schlossstraße 36, 56812 Cochem, Germany
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8. Linderhof Palace
Linderhof Palace is one of the three famous palaces built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria. The palace was inspired by the Grand Trianon at Versailles and is located in Linderhof Park in Oberammergau, Bavaria, Germany. Construction started in 1869 and was completed in 1886.
The palace is small but exquisitely decorated, with an opulent interior that includes a grand staircase, a marble bathroom, and a gold-leafed dining room. The grounds are equally impressive, boasting a formal French garden, an Italianate garden, and a Japanese tea house. Visitors can also explore the nearby caves, which were created by Ludwig himself.
With its fairytale atmosphere and picturesque setting, Linderhof Palace is truly one of the most magical places in Germany.
Address: Linderhof 12, 82488 Ettal, Germany
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9. Schwerin Castle
Schwerin Castle is one of the most beautiful palaces in Germany. It is located in the city of Schwerin, in the northeast of the country. The castle has a long history, dating back to the 11th century. It was first built as a fortification by Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony.
Over the centuries, it has been expanded and renovated several times. Today, it is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, with imposing towers and spacious halls. The castle is surrounded by a picturesque park, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll. If you’re looking for a fairytale setting, Schwerin Castle is definitely worth a visit.
Address: Lennéstraße 1, 19053 Schwerin, Germany
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10. Rheinstein Castle
Rheinstein Castle is one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Germany. Build in the 13th century, the castle overlooks the Rhine River and is surrounded by a moat. The castle was originally built as a fortification, but over time it was transformed into a luxurious residence.
Today, Rheinstein Castle is open to the public and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany. Visitors can explore the castle’s many towers and courtyards, and admire its beautiful river views. The castle also houses a museum with exhibits on its history and artifacts from its days as a fortification.
Address: Burg Rheinstein, 55413 Trechtingshausen, Germany
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11. Nymphenburg Palace
Nymphenburg Palace is one of the best-known royal residences in Germany. Located in Munich, it was the main summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs from the 16th century onwards. The palace was built in Rococo style and is surrounded by an extensive park.
Today, it is one of Munich’s most popular tourist attractions, with over half a million visitors each year. The palace complex comprises several buildings, including the main palace, the magnificent Great Hall of Mirrors, and the beautiful Marstallmuseum. The Nymphenburg Porcelain Manufactory, which was founded in the 18th century, is also located on the palace grounds.
Address: Schloß Nymphenburg 1, 80638 München, Germany
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12. Schloss Drachenburg
Schloss Drachenburg is one of the best-preserved castles in Germany. The castle was built in 1884 as a private residence for Baron Stephan von Sarter. However, the Baron only lived in the castle for two years before selling it to a German businessman.
The castle changed hands several times over the next few years, before being donated to a German foundation in 1953. Today, the castle is open to the public and features a restaurant, hotel, and museum. Visitors can explore the different rooms of the castle, including the grand hall, dining room, and library.
They can also enjoy scenic views of the Rhine River from the terrace. With its beautiful setting and well-preserved architecture, Schloss Drachenburg is definitely one of the best palace castles in Germany.
Address: Drachenfelsstraße 118, 53639 Königswinter, Germany
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13. Wernigerode Castle
Wernigerode Castle is a stunning example of German architecture at its finest. Build in the 11th century, the castle has been the home of many noble families over the centuries and has been meticulously preserved. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany, and it is easy to see why.
The castle’s imposing exterior and beautifully-decorated interior are a sight to behold, and its location atop a hill provides visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. If you are looking for a truly magical experience, then a visit to Wernigerode Castle is a must.
Address: Am Schloß 1, 38855 Wernigerode, Germany
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14. Marksburg
Marksburg Castle is one of the best-preserved castles in Germany. Located in the Rhineland-Palatinate region, it was built in the 12th century and has been well-maintained over the centuries. The castle is situated on a high hilltop, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
It is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the various rooms and towers, as well as the castle’s museum. The Marksburg Castle is a great example of German architecture and engineering, and it is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in castles and history.
Address: 56338 Braubach, Germany
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15. Imperial Castle of Nuremberg
The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg is one of the best examples of a medieval castle in Germany. It was built in the 11th century and served as the residence of the Holy Roman Emperors. The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Nuremberg, and its high walls and towers offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The castle is also home to a number of museums and art galleries, as well as a large collection of ancient armor and weaponry. In addition, the castle grounds are host to a number of annual events, such as the famous Nuremberg Christmas Market. With its rich history and myriad attractions, it is no wonder that the Imperial Castle of Nuremberg is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany.
Address: Burg 17, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany
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16. Grünwald Castle
Germany is a country with a long history and a rich culture. From its grandiose castles to its quaint villages, there is much to explore. Grünwald Castle is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved castles in the country. Situated on a hilltop in the Bavarian countryside, the castle offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
History buffs will enjoy exploring the castle’s many rooms and corridors, which are filled with antiques and works of art. The grounds are also worth a visit, as they feature a variety of gardens and sculptures. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a beautiful place to spend a day, Grünwald Castle is definitely worth a visit.
Address: Zeillerstraße 3, 82031 Grünwald bei München, Germany
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17. Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle is a fairy-tale fortress nestled in the hills of Germany’s Eifel region. Build in the 12th century, the castle has been passed down through generations of the same family and remains remarkably well-preserved. With its soaring turrets, intricate stonework, and beautiful setting, Eltz Castle is widely considered one of Germany’s most picturesque castles.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and chambers, including the knights’ hall, armory, and treasure chamber. The castle also features an outdoor museum with a collection of antique coaches and carriages. Even if you’re not a history buff, it’s impossible not to be enchanted by Eltz Castle – it truly is a fairytale come to life.
Address: 56294 Wierschem, Germany
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18. Schloss Johannisburg
Schloss Johannisburg in Aschaffenburg is one of the bests palaces in Germany. The palace was built in the early 17th century for Johann Schweikhart von Kronberg, Archbishop-Elector of Mainz. However, it was destroyed by fire just a few years after its completion.
It was rebuilt in the Baroque style between 1695 and 1731 under the direction of architect Philipp et Johan Moritz Graff. Today, Schloss Johannisburg is one of the most visited palaces in Germany, with over 100,000 visitors each year. The castle is open to the public for tours, and there is also a museum on the premises.
In addition, the castle grounds are home to a beautiful garden that is open to the public year-round.
Address: Schloßpl. 4, 63739 Aschaffenburg, Germany
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19. High Castle of Füssen
The Füssen Castle, or the High Castle of Füssen, is one of the best-preserved castles in Germany. It is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, with its large towers and intricate stonework. The castle was built in the 11th century by Duke Heinrich III of Bavaria, and it served as his residence for many years.
Today, the castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and courtyards. The castle also has a museum that showcases some of its history, and there are often events and concerts held on its grounds. The Füssen Castle is an excellent example of a well-preserved castle, and it is definitely worth a visit if you are ever in the area.
Address: Magnuspl. 10, 87629 Füssen, Germany
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20. Stolzenfels Castle
Stolzenfels Castle is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved castles in Germany. It is located on the Rhine River in the town of Stolzenfels, and it was built in the 13th century as a fortification against invaders. The castle was later expanded and turned into a palace by the Holy Roman Emperor, Frederick II.
Today, the castle is open to the public, and it is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and gardens, and they can also enjoy stunning views of the Rhine River from its terraces.
Address: Schlossweg 11, 56075 Koblenz, Germany
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In Conclusion
If you’re looking for a travel destination that is rich in history, then Germany is the perfect place for you. The country is home to some of the most beautiful palaces and castles in Europe. From the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle to the grandiose Grünwald Castle, there are plenty of incredible sights to see. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of the 20 best palaces and castles in Germany. Trust us, you’re going to want to add all of these places to your travel itinerary!
