Exploring Bavaria’s Top 10 Castles

Is Bavaria the castle capital of Europe? Featuring enchanting palaces, medieval wonders, haunting ruins, and more, the majestic castles of this southern German region showcase a variety of architectural styles, telling the stories of the kings, dukes, and noble families who once lived within their walls, adding to the fairy-tale atmosphere.

From historic towns to quaint villages, sparkling lakes to the scenic foothills of the Alps, here are the 10 finest castles throughout Bavaria.  

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

Must-visit castle for your bucket list  

Undoubtedly Germany's most iconic castle and arguably the most renowned in the world, this castle near Füssen draws over a million visitors annually and is believed to have inspired Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom. Constructed for Bavaria's so-called 'Mad King' Ludwig II, Neuschwanstein was designed by a set designer rather than a traditional architect, serving as a private sanctuary for the reclusive monarch. With enchanting turrets soaring into the sky, its interior boasts chandeliers, luxurious fabrics, detailed carvings, and frescoes that reflect the king’s fascination with German mythology, particularly as interpreted by the famed composer Richard Wagner, whom Ludwig supported financially. 

2. Hohenschwangau Castle 

Best castle for a contrast to Neuschwanstein

Schloss Hohenschwangau is the neo-Gothic companion to Neuschwanstein, built between 1833 and 1837 by Maximilian II (father of Ludwig II). Erected on the ruins of an old knight's castle, this stunning yellow edifice served as the summer and hunting residence for the family, where a young Ludwig spent much of his childhood. Some scholars believe this experience inspired his grand aspirations later in life. Today, visitors can explore 10 rooms across three floors on a 45-minute tour, easily combined with a visit to Neuschwanstein. 

3. Herrenchiemsee Palace 

Best castle for a summer escapade 

Nestled on an island in Chiemsee, the renowned Bavarian lake, Schloss Herrenchiemsee is accessible solely by boat. This castle closely resembles the Palace of Versailles and was commissioned by – you guessed it – Ludwig II. Although he only spent a few days here before his untimely demise in 1886, the project consumed vast amounts of money, showcasing opulent interiors. Take a guided tour to explore various rooms, including the Great Hall of Mirrors and the lavish sleeping quarters, and delve into the king's life at a museum dedicated to him. 

4. Nuremberg Imperial Castle 

Best castle in the city center  

Once a significant Imperial residence in the Holy Roman Empire, where every emperor once lived, Kaiserburg Nuremberg stands proudly on a sandstone ridge in the historic center of Nuremberg. Almost entirely destroyed during WWII, the castle was meticulously reconstructed and restored to its original splendor. Wander the grounds to admire the red-and-white shutters, ivy-clad walls, and charming flower boxes, then climb the Sinwell Tower for stunning views of the historic city. Key attractions include the residential wing, the Deep Well (guided tours are required), and the medieval armor and weaponry displayed in the castle’s museum. 

5. Johannisburg Palace

Best castle showcasing German Renaissance architecture 

Constructed between 1605 and 1614, Schloss Johannisburg stands as a pinnacle of late Renaissance palace architecture in Germany. Serving as the residence for the archbishop-electors of Mainz until 1803, this four-winged structure is built from local red sandstone and is located by the River Main in the Franconian city of Aschaffenburg. Today, visitors can explore various sections of the palace, including an art gallery, the church, and the princely apartments furnished with original neoclassical pieces. Additionally, it houses the world's largest collection of cork architectural models, featuring a 3m (10ft)-long replica of the Colosseum. 

6. Egloffstein Castle

Best castle for an overnight getaway 

Located not far from Nuremberg, the region of Franconian Switzerland is famed for its unique rock formations and charming towns, providing stunning backdrops for medieval castles. One such gem is Burg Egloffstein, the ancestral home of a local noble family. This castle is perched atop a steep cliff overlooking the Trubach valley; hike up for breathtaking views of the countryside and the namesake village, or arrange for a guided tour in advance. The intimate castle offers a few vacation apartments, making it an exciting option for those wishing to enhance their castle experience. As a guest, you’ll have easy access to diverse walking, biking, and climbing trails in the area. 

7. Nymphenburg Palace 

Best castle for stunning gardens 

The tale of Schloss Nymphenburg begins with Henriette Adelaide of Savoy and the birth of her long-anticipated son, Max Emanuel, in 1662. This elegant villa, a gift from her husband, was initially built outside the city limits of Munich but was eventually enveloped by urban development. Over the years, the structure was greatly expanded, resulting in a magnificent three-winged complex that showcases architectural styles from baroque to rococo. The palace grounds are home to the second-largest park in the city (after Englischer Garten) and serve as a beloved recreational area for locals. Stroll along the canal, admire the statues and pavilions, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, beavers, adders, and tawny owls.

8. Harburg Castle

Best castle for those traveling the Romantic Road 

Having withstood countless sieges and battles, the 12th-century Schloss Harburg is among the best-preserved medieval castles in southern Germany and a favorite stop along the Romantic Road. Perched on a steep mountain ridge overlooking the Wörnitz River valley and the town of Harburg, the castle features red-tiled roofs, colorful shutters, and imposing walls and towers. It has been associated with the Oettingen-Wallerstein family since the 1700s; there’s even a rumor that Michael Jackson once attempted to buy it. Keep in mind that the castle typically closes from November to March.     

9. Burghausen Castle 

Best castle for history enthusiasts 

Stretching over a kilometer along the Bavaria–Austria border, Burghausen is recognized as the longest castle in the world, a fact confirmed by the Guinness Book of Records. From 1255 to 1503, it served as the second residence for the Lower Bavarian dukes, who added numerous fortifications and extensions throughout the years. History buffs will appreciate the expansive site, featuring five spacious courtyards, complete with tales of moats, portcullises, and drawbridges. The castle walls offer stunning views of the Salzach River and the oxbow lake Wöhrsee below. If you visit in December, don’t miss the enchanting Christmas market held within the ancient walls. 

10. Leuchtenberg Castle ruins

Best castle for those seeking solitude 

Perched atop the 585m (1919ft) Leuchtenberg mountain in Upper Palatinate, these lesser-known ruins date back to 1300 and were once the property of a prominent noble family before falling into disrepair in the 1600s. Today, the remnants are well-preserved, with easily identifiable sections like the chapel and Knight’s Hall. If you can, plan your visit to coincide with the annual festival or one of the enchanting medieval-themed events and amateur theater productions hosted at the castle.