If you are absolutely in love with fairy tales and enchanting castles, then Germany is no less than a dream for you. However, with over 20,000 castles, picking the best ones is quite tricky!
But, guess what? Being complete fairy tale admirers, we understand your problem. Hence, we have cherry-picked the best fairy tale castles in Germany for you and found out why they deserve to be on your list.
So, before the clock strikes twelve, read on to find your favorite ones!
You should also check the Best Medieval Towns in Europe.
Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle is located on the hills near the river of Moselle between the two cities of Trier and Koblenz. It is one of the best fairy tale castles in Germany that you will fall in love with.
This architectural masterpiece hides between the trees in the forest. The same family has cared for it since it was built. One generation after the other follows the steps of their ancestors to keep the glory and beauty of this castle.
Did you know that this is one of the few castles that has not been harmed by war? It is one of three castles on the left bank that has never been destroyed.
Furthermore, it still holds many of the original furnishings from the past centuries untouched. So, if you want to take a tour through history, we highly recommend this castle.
Where to Stay Near Eltz Castle?
For nearby hotels, Landhotel Ringelsteiner Mühle will not disappoint you. They are only located 1.4 km away from the castle. Moreover, they offer excellent service, free parking, and delicious food.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the famous landmarks in Germany and lies on top of the hills of Hohenschwangau, near Füssen. King King Ludwig II (the Mad King) built this castle close to his family home.
This castle is the true meaning of a fairy tale castle. Everything from the fantastic architecture, the massive size of the castle, the middle-aged design will fascinate you. In fact, it looks like a much bigger and historical version of the famous Disneyland castle.
The castle is painted in white, and the rooftops in royal blue, which looks breathtaking. Moreover, the interior of the castle is gorgeous with all the fancy medieval decorations and furnishings.
You should never miss the secret grotto inside the castle, which looks like a real fairytale cave!
Where to Stay Near Neuschwanstein Castle?
While visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, you should definitely plan your stay at Hotel Müller. It is close to both Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle. And, they offer complimentary breakfast and great rooms with cordial staff.
Hohenzollern Castle
What is more beautiful than a gorgeous castle sitting on top of a hill and looking at the lush-green forests? The Hohenzollern castle in Bisingen, Zollernalbkreis, is one of Germany’s most beautiful fairy tale castles.
The castle has more than annual 350,000 visitors that come from worldwide to witness its glory. So, be prepared to meet some crowds there when you visit.
If you look at the castle from far away, it looks like a villain castle from a movie. This is because it has so many towers and fortifications that make it even more glorious. When you visit it, you will be impressed by how massive it is.
Visiting this castle is even fun for little children. There are fun activities for kids, and they can dress as a knight or a princess!
Where to Stay Near Hohenzollern?
For staying near the castle, we recommend Hotel Brielhof. They offer complimentary breakfast, free parking, and the rooms are very, quite nice and comfortable!
Marburger Schloss
The Marburger Schloss, also known as Landgrafen Palace, is another excellent castle to visit in Germany. It is located in Marburg, Hesse, Germany, and sits on top of Schlossberg.
In fact, this castle inspired a lot of the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales. It lies on top of the hill gloriously while looking down at one of Germany’s most beautiful and romantic towns.
The University Museum for Cultural History will walk you through the castle if you are a history lover. And, they will tell you about its amazing past and show you the gorgeous interior. We loved every part of the tour!
Where to Stay Near Marburger Schloss?
To enjoy your visit to Marburger Schloss, we recommend staying at B&B Hotel Marburg. It is close to the castle, has great air-conditioned rooms, and offers free parking.
Reichsburg/Cochem Castle
Cochem is one of the best medieval towns in Germany. And well, it’s almost impossible not to notice the Cochem castle standing tall and proud!
Built in the 12th century, the Cochem castle is a sight to behold! With its grand architecture and fairytale appearance, almost every traveler is drawn to its beauty.
However, did you know that a banker named Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené restored the entire castle in the 19th century? Due to this reason, the castle has more of a Neo-Renaissance style instead of a medieval style.
Today, there are many 40-minutes guided tours to this castle! So you can get to see various things, like archaic furniture, tapestries, paintings, etc.
Where To Stay Near Reichsburg/Cochem?
If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, consider booking the Alte Thorschenke hotel. It’s just 10 minutes away from the castle. Moreover, the rooms are decent with great staff.
Mespelbrunn Castle
Mespelbrunn Castle is located in the town of Mespelbrunn between Würzburg and Frankfurt. It is a trendy tourist attraction as it is one of Germany’s most beautiful fairy tale castles.
It is a moated castle with water surrounding it from everywhere. The water creates such a beautiful reflection with the nature around. Moreover, it is so beautiful that you would feel like it is a scene from a movie!
If you want a fairy tale castle with romantic scenery and beautiful architecture, you won’t be disappointed. Furthermore, we also enjoyed the parks here. If you want to know more about this castle and its timings, you can check their website too.
Where to Stay Near Mespelbrunn?
For the whole experience, we recommend staying at the Rügers Forstgut hotel. It is a top-rated hotel that has served hundreds of satisfied and happy visitors. In addition, they offer a spa, free parking, outstanding breakfast, and friendly service.
Wartburg Castle
Wartburg Castle is located in the town of Eisenach, Thuringia, and it has aged for more than 1000 years. It is a huge glorious castle that you can spot from miles away.
In fact, this is the first castle to be declared a World Heritage site in Germany by UNESCO. It holds a magnificent collection of treasures that dates back to more than 8 centuries.
Moreover, you can even visit the stunning castle grounds for free without any fees. However, you will need to pay a fee to see the interior of the castle. We enjoyed our tour inside the castle as it gives the impression of a historic church.
Where to Stay Near Wartburg?
If you plan to stay around the castle to explore, you should stay at Romantik Hotel Auf der Wartburg. This top-rated hotel is only 90 meters away from the castle, so you will be able to visit with maximum convenience. Also, the rooms have a perfect view.
Hohenschwangau Castle
Hohenschwangau Castle is located in the village of Hohenschwangau in southern Germany. They built the castle for the childhood residence of King Ludwig II (the Mad King). This masterpiece is a perfect fairy tale castle that you should never miss.
The castle is surrounded by nature everywhere, which makes it beautiful to look at from far away. Additionally, it looks absolutely gorgeous in winter with all the white trees surrounding it.
We loved the Germanic folklore scenes covering the walls and the ceiling of the castle from inside. Surely, they will give you an immersed experience and take you back in time to the medieval centuries.
We highly recommend buying a “King’s ticket” to access Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein castles for a discounted price.
Where to Stay Near Hohenschwangau?
Both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau are quite close to each other. So, you can book your stay at the hotel near Neuschwanstein that we’ve mentioned above!
Schwerin Castle
Schwerin Castle is located in the city of Schwerin, the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern state. It is a masterpiece built back in 1857 and is a glorious castle with more than 650 rooms inside.
Moreover, it is so huge that you would need an entire day to walk around and explore the castle.
The walls are painted with golden yellow, and the roofs with dark blue, giving the castle a unique royal look. Also, most of the interior walls are covered with gold or with marble.
The castle looks even more beautiful during winter as the snow covers the rooftop and the surrounding trees. Moreover, this castle is built entirely on a small island to look even more like a fairy tale.
Where to Stay Near Schwerin?
If you are planning to stay near the Schwerin castle, then we highly recommend hotel Weinhaus Uhle. It is a luxurious hotel that is located just 7 minutes away from the castle. Additionally, they offer an excellent value for the price.
Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle is located in the Baden-Württemberg region in Germany. It is a hidden gem that people usually overlook for the other fairy tale castles in Germany. However, we were fascinated by how mesmerizing this castle is!
In fact, this is the first castle that was inspired by the book and not the other way around. Its name means “Shining stone” because it is built on top of a stone, and it looks as if they are one piece together.
Moreover, this castle is every photographer’s dream. Because the castle is not well-known for tourists, you will often find it quiet with no tourists visiting, which will allow you to take as many pictures as you want. So, if you love historical photography, you will not regret visiting this castle.
Where to Stay Near Lichtenstein?
If you are visiting Lichtenstein Castle, then we recommend you to stay at hotel Forellenhof Rössle. It is one of the top-rated and nearest hotels in the area. Moreover, they offer great dining and excellent rooms.
Wernigerode Castle
Wernigerode Castle is located in the mountains of the Harz in Wernigerode. Unfortunately, it was severely damaged due to wars. However, it was reconstructed to look just like the original castle, and today, it is a beautiful piece of art!
This castle is one of the most beautiful fairy tale castles in Germany. The scene of the castle lying on top of the mountain and surrounded by hundreds of trees is definitely breathtaking. Moreover, we loved the view of the castle at night. Yellow lights cover the castle, which adds beauty and a bit of romance to the scene.
If you are lucky, you will find tours that will take you inside the castle and show you 40 furnished rooms of the German nobilities. Some of these rooms are even original, and you will see how the old nobles lived in person. You wouldn’t want to miss this!
Where to Stay Near Wernigerode?
While visiting Wernigerode Castle, you should definitely stay at Hotel Erbprinz Palais, only 220 meters away from the castle. All the rooms have a classic look that will take you back in time. Also, they offer free breakfast and great services.
Burg Rheinstein
Located near Trechtingshausen in Rhineland-Palatinate, the Rheinstein castle is a must-visit. It’s not just a pretty castle with breathtaking panoramic views, but it is also a very significant one in Germany’s history.
As the Rheinstein castle has a very strategic location, the Germans used it heavily for defense purposes. Hence, you can also find marvelous drawbridges here that you need to see!
Apart from the defense part, this castle has various beautiful spots. For instance, there is a courtyard that offers stunning views of the Rhine. Moreover, you can also find a courtyard named ‘Burgundy Garden.’ The surprising fact is that a 500-old grapevine in this garden still produces grapes.
Finally, don’t forget to visit the castle chapel to find some lovely catholic art.
Where to Stay Near Burg Rheinstein?
We recommend staying at the Hotel NH Bingen. This reasonable hotel offers some of the most splendid views! It’s also just a few kilometers away from the castle.
Burghausen Castle
The Burghausen Castle is undoubtedly an offbeat castle located in Burghausen, Germany.
Unlike the towering castles, this one is more on the expansive side. In fact, according to the Guinness World Records, this castle has the longest castle complex (around 1,051 meters) in the world!
The castle complex consists of various areas, such as an inner courtyard and five outer courtyards. As most of the castle is converted into a museum, you can check out the various Gothic paintings here. You can also roam about the several courtyards or take a tour to explore the nook and corner of this castle.
And well, just like any other castle, Burghausen castle also offers magical views from wherever you stand.
Where to Stay Near Burghausen?
The Gartenhotel Salzach is certainly the best one near the Burghausen Castle. It’s just 740 meters away and offers clean and comfortable rooms. The staff is quite friendly, and the food is delicious!
Dresden Castle
If you’re tired of exploring the same old castles of Germany with similar architecture and styles, we suggest visiting the Dresden castle.
Located in Dresden, the Dresden castle is the oldest building in the entire area. Today, it is also known as the Dresdner Schloss or the Royal Palace. Also, did you know that the Dresden castle was home to the kings of Saxony around 400 years ago?
Most of the complex of this castle is now a museum. Hence, don’t forget to visit and check out the various items like the Numismatic Cabinet, the New Green Vault, and the Dresden Armory!
In this castle, you can even find artworks of famous artists like Michelangelo and Picasso.
Where to Stay Near Dresden?
You can plan your stay at Hilton Dresden. This hotel is just 4 kilometers away from the castle. Also, the rooms are extremely snug and spacious!
Moyland Castle
Till now, we had only read about moated castles in books, but the Moyland castle is definitely a dream come true.
Unlike the other castles built in the Renaissance style, Moyland castle brings forth a neo-Gothic style which is simply splendid.
Additionally, if you’re an art lover, this castle is a paradise as it houses a massive collection of artworks and paintings. There is also a museum present wherein you can see various exhibits.
Finally, the scenery around the Moyland castle is impressive, and we highly recommend taking a walk around this castle!
If you want to grab a quick bite, there’s a museum cafe present in this castle as well.
Where to Stay Near Moyland?
We suggest staying at the lovely Wellnesshotel Till Moyland due to its close distance to the castle. Additionally, the rooms are quite spacious, and you get a free scrumptious breakfast every morning!
Sababurg Castle
Sababurg Castle lies proudly on top of Reinhardswald mountains, Hofgeismar. This 700-year-old castle is one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Germany.
This castle inspired The Grimms Brothers’ “Sleeping Beauty” story if you are into fairy tales. The entire theme of the castle is very romantic, which makes it one of the best castles for couples to visit.
Moreover, the castle’s inner courtyard holds many fun activities, concerts, lectures, performances, and parties. And, if you visit during the time period between May and August, you will love how beautiful the roses look.
In fact, the castle is not the only thing to visit in that area. Nearby, you will find the Primeval forest nature reserve, which keeps oak trees that are over 1000 years old.
Where to Stay Near Sababurg?
The castle holds one of the most romantic hotels on its grounds. You can visit the castle and stay at the same place for utmost convenience. The hotel is top-rated with a lot to offer such as, free internet, free parking, babysitting, and more.
Schloss Drachenburg
The last on our list is the Schloss Drachenburg castle, a private villa near the magical Rhine.
This beautiful castle is surrounded by lush green gardens that are perfect for a peaceful stroll! Additionally, you can also relish the views of the Rhine and Königswinter.
If you want, you can check out the lovely castle and its architecture from the inside. Many tours are available, such as a classic tour, children’s tour, and comfortable tour, at varying prices.
Where to Stay Near Schloss Drachenburg?
Located just 900 meters away, the Maritim Hotel is one of the best near the Drachenburg castle. From here, the views of the Rhine are fabulous. The rooms are luxurious, and there’s an indoor pool available too!
Have you ever read about the Best Castles in Austria?
Final thoughts about the Fairy Tale Castles in Germany
While you are in Germany, visiting these majestic castles becomes a must! We tried to make it quite easy for you to choose the best fairy tale castles in Germany with the list above. You can check which castles you can fit in your itinerary and live your own fairy tale there!
While you are in Germany, you will come across many lakes that are worth spending some time at. Especially the lakes near Neuschwanstein castle. Their limpid water and stunning colors are magic! Make sure you don’t miss them.
