Best Castle Hotels in Germany

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclaimer policy.

Did you know you can sleep in a dreamy castle in Germany? It’s true! In this guide we show you the best castle hotels on the Rhine and Moselle rivers, in the Romantic Road area, the Black Forest, and more.

Quick Answer: Best Castle Hotels in Germany

Here are the best castle hotels in the areas that travelers love visiting. We recommend booking your stay as early as possible for the best prices and availability.

1. Romantic Road (near Rothenburg): Burg Colmberg Hotel
2. Romantic Road (near Würzburg): Schlosshotel Steinburg
3. Bavaria (near Bamberg & Nürnberg): Burg Rabenstein
4. Black Forest (near Baden-Baden): Schloss Eberstein
5. Black Forest (near Buhl): Burg Windeck
6. Rhine River (in Oberwesel): Burghotel auf Schönburg
7. Rhine River (near Bingen): Burg Reichenstein
8. Rhine River (near St. Goar): Hotel Schloss Rheinfels
9. Rhine River (near Kaub): Burg Gutenfels
10. Moselle River (near Bernkastle-Keus and Trier): Schloss Lieser
11. Moselle River (near Brodenbach): Ehrenburg Castle Hotel
12. Near Frankfurt: Schlosshotel Kronberg
13. Near Frankfurt: Villa Rothschild
14. Near Heidelberg: Hotel Burg Hornberg
15. Cologne Area: Schloss Bensberg
    

Ever Dream About Living in a Fairytale Castle While Growing Up?

Are you a big history buff who’s always been curious about what life was like in medieval times? Or maybe you’re looking for a unique experience to add to your Germany trip itinerary?

Consider spending a night or two in a castle hotel!

There are several fantastic castle hotels located in the parts of Germany that travelers love to visit — like the Romantic Road area, Rhine and Moselle rivers, and the Black Forest. There’s even one you can stay in the night before flying out of Frankfurt International Airport!

Where Can I Find The Above Map?

It’s part of our Germany Travel Planner, and it’s your Germany travel planning BFF! Using our custom interactive planning map you’ll be able to quickly see the best sights, castles, hotels, day trips, and more – along with our photos and up-to-date insider tips. Seeing where these things are in relation to each other makes it much easier to plan your overall itinerary, as well as each day of your trip. If you don’t yet have it, click here to get access.

Can I Really Stay the Night in a Castle in Germany?

Yes! No matter where you go to in Germany, you’re sure to find castles scattered all across the countryside, on top of mountains and hills, or overlooking valleys and rivers.

While most were rebuilt over the years and opened for public visits or turned into museums, others were renovated into luxury retreats or family-run boutique hotels.

This type of accommodation, called Schlosshotel in German, is the best way to experience what it’s like to sleep in a castle. You’ll experience history, and often a little (or a lot) of luxury. Sounds good, doesn’t it?

What Kind of Castle Can I Stay In?

Germany is home to an abundance of beautiful castles. While many may expect them to look like the grand castles of Walt Disney, there’s actually a diverse range of castle types all around the country.

Fairy tale castles like King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein castle are some of the most impressive feats of architecture in Germany. Typically, these castles serve as landmarks and museums and don’t have the option for guests to spend a night in. It’s the same case for the many castle ruins scattered across the country. 

A lot of the castle hotels you can stay in are smaller castles owned by the families of the original founding families. Many of them look like luxurious countryside manors or palaces with sprawling gardens and outer buildings that house amenities like pools or spa and wellness centers.

A few castle hotels. like Hotel Burg Hornburg in Bavaria or Burghotel auf Schönburg on the Rhine River, are actually medieval fortresses. These castle hotels offer some of the best scenic views since most of the time they are found atop cliffside mountains or hills, typical of how fortresses were built centuries ago.

What Is It Like to Stay in A German Castle Hotel?

Staying in a German castle hotel is a totally unique experience and often far more than just a place to sleep for a night or two.

We suggest carving specific days in your Germany trip itinerary for your stay in a castle hotel. This is because while many of the hotels are in the areas travelers enjoy visiting (the Rhine and Moselle River area, Romantic Road area, etc.), they’re not all super close to major city landmarks or next to tourist attractions.

So, staying in a castle hotel is really doing it for the experience as opposed to convenience for sightseeing. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of things to do while staying in castle hotels!

Though you may not be as close to famous city tourist sites, you might be closer to hiking trails, golf courses, historic villages, and other fun outdoor activities.

For those who prefer culinary experiences, many castle hotels house delicious restaurants where you can sample authentic specialties from the region. Many of them even offer special packages like a full-course candlelight dinner, wine tasting in the property’s vineyard, and even themed feasts in a medieval banquet hall.

What a fun and memorable way to celebrate an anniversary, birthday or the trip of a lifetime!

Aside from these activities, the ambiance and atmosphere of a castle hotel itself is one of the best parts of the experience. The hotels have a unique charm that you won’t find in a chain hotel in the city because these hotels are for the most part family-run enterprises.

The owners are often descendants of the castle’s earliest royal members such as barons, counts, or princes. You’ll see the history of the castle proudly displayed through special family memorabilia scattered throughout the castle.

The furnishings and decorations are equally as special. From four-poster beds to ornate chandeliers, most rooms in castle hotels are individually decorated. Many preserve the original antique furnishings of the castle and combine with them modern amenities to make for the perfect stay. 

What’s The Best Way to Get to Castle Hotels?

Most castle hotels are farther out from the center of major cities than are normally included in your typical German vacation itinerary. For that reason, the best way to get to most castle hotels would be to rent a car. Most, if not all, of these castles offer free private parking, since it’s common for people to visit these places during a Germany road trip.

That said, there are a few castle hotels you can reach via public transit. We recommend you search each hotel’s official website where they list the nearest surrounding landmarks, instructions for what train or bus to take, and directions via car.

Does Anyone Live in Castles in Germany Today?

Yes! There are around 20,000 – 25,000 castles in Germany but the exact number is not known. There might be even more! While they’re not all occupied by royal families like they were before, you’ll be surprised to find out that there are some families who do still live in these castles to this day.

A few castles are still under the ownership of the founding families so they’re used as summer residences or private estates. Others have private wings that are inhabited by the family only, while the other wings are open to the public for visits.

Best German Castle Hotels

1. Burg Colmberg Hotel (Romantic Road near Rothenburg ob der Tauber)

This is the perfect castle hotel if you’re planning to drive the “Romantic Road”, visit nearby Rothenburg ob der Tauber or are looking for a unique experience before or after visiting Nürnberg (Nuremberg), Würzburg or Bamberg.

The historic guest rooms of the 13th-century Castle Colmberg are equipped with hand-carved historic beds or Franconian four-poster beds. If you want to be transported to the Middle Ages, you can also stay at the Tower Guard, a luxurious 2-floor suite with great views of the Franconian landscape.

There are two restaurants onsite that serve authentic Franconian cuisine and a bright, airy conservatory where you can enjoy coffee and cake.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

2. Schlosshotel Steinburg (Romantic Road near Würzburg)

This is the perfect castle hotel if you’re visiting Würzburg or if you’re looking for an overnight stop between Frankfurt and Nürnberg or Munich.

Schlosshotel Steinburg is divided into two wings: the Castle Manor (Traumschloss) and the Country Manor (Landschloss). The rooms in Castle Manor are perfect if you’re looking for a more traditional castle ambiance since it’s the oldest part of the original castle.

The Country Manor, on the other hand, features more modern, contemporary fixtures with a Mediterranean twist. More modern amenities include a sauna, an indoor pool with gorgeous views of Würzburg, and a fine dining restaurant serving Franconian cuisine and wine.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

3. Burg Rabenstein (in Bavaria near Bamberg & Nürnberg)

If you’d like to visit Nürnberg, Bamberg or Bayreuth and stay in a beautiful castle hotel, consider Burg Rabenstein.

Burg Rabenstein dates back to the 12th century and many of its original features have been restored and kept in line with the castle’s medieval architecture.

It’s perched atop limestone cliffs with great views of the extensive castle grounds which house a limestone cave, a falconry, a beer garden, and two restaurants serving traditional Franconian dishes.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

4. Schloss Eberstein (Black Forest, near Baden-Baden)

The 4-star castle hotel Schloss Eberstein is located amid the picturesque Murgtal Valley. It overlooks the town of Gernsbach and is nearby the Black Forest. It has its own vineyard with activities for guests like wine tastings and hiking.  The hotel features a restaurant, dining/beer garden terrace, library, a peaceful garden, and rooms are bright and generously equipped. Dine in the historic atmosphere of the restaurant and banqueting hall.

For a serene and relaxing stay in this beautiful spot book early to reserve one of the 16 rooms that have either a Castle courtyard or valley view.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

5. Burg Windeck (Black Forest, near Bühl):

The 3-star-superior Burg Windeck hotel is beautifully situated on top of a hill and is surrounded by Vinyards. It has stunning views overlooking the Rhine valley towards Strasbourg and is adjacent to the Windeck Castle.

This historic hotel features renovated, and romantic rooms furnished in a country-house style with modern décor. Burg Windeck Hotel is adjacent to the castle and offers excellent cuisine and a spa area with a sauna, fitness machines and free Wi-Fi. Baden and Mediterranean cuisine are served in the panoramic restaurant and snacks and drinks can be enjoyed in the Pferdestall lounge, which has a children’s play area.

Guests can relax on the terrace and enjoy a glass of wine from the hotel’s own vineyard. Homemade cakes are also served.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

6. Burghotel auf Schönburg (Rhine River in Oberwesel)

If you’re planning to spend a few days on the Rhine and want something more unique than a simple hotel, check out Schönburg Castle overlooking the lovely town of Oberwesel. This location is excellent for exploring the towns and castles on the Rhine and Moselle rivers (best if you have a car).

Located in the historic Schönburg Castle, this 4-star hotel has 27 individually decorated rooms and suites, many with a balcony offering amazing views of the Rhine River.

All of the rooms boast of individual antique furnishings like wood four-poster beds and wrought iron fireplaces. Hotel guests also get exclusive access to the castle garden and castle tower museum. There’s also a castle bistro onsite that serves breakfast and delicious regional food.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

7. Burg Reichenstein (Rhine River near Bingen)

The Burg Reichenstein is a charming mountainside medieval castle and hotel. It’s an excellent choice if you are touring the Rhine area. It’s not far from Bingen where we recommend starting your Rhine River boat cruise.

This 3-star castle hotels offers cozy rooms with views of the Rhine River and valley. The hotel has a restaurant and a bar as well as a daily continental breakfast in the mornings.

On-site is the amazing Reichenstein castle – one of our absolute favorites on the Rhine! It has beautiful interiors, stunning views and wonderfully maintained gardens. Exploring all parts of this fascinating castle and museum is a lot of fun and not to be missed!

>> Click here to check availability and price!

8. Hotel Schloss Rheinfels (Rhine River in St. Goar)

Hotel Schloss Rheinfels is an upscale 4-star hotel is housed in a 13th-century castle situated on a hill overlooking the Rhein River and the village of St. Goar. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a castle hotel experience (with amazing views) traveling with or without a car. The adjacent Rhenfels castle is one of the largest in the area and offers amazing views.

The lovely town of St. Goar is a short walk downhill from the castle hotel (or you can take the shuttle bus) and from there you can hop on a train and explore the other villages and castles on the Rhine or enjoy a boat ride for a fun day cruise (highly recommended).

Hotel Schloss Rheinfels offers comfortable and luxurious rooms as well as high-end amenities like a restaurant and pub with a panorama terrace, an indoor swimming pool, and spa and sauna facilities.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

9. Burg Gutenfels (Rhine River near Kaub)

Built in 1220, Gutenfels Castle in Kaub is now a privately owned boutique hotel with exceptional reviews. Amenities include a terrace overlooking the Rhine, a garden, shared lounge/library, sauna and delicious continental breakfast. There are family rooms, and some rooms are equipped with a kitchen.

This relaxing spot offers 5 lovingly furnished rooms with a variety of nearby attractions and activities. Some landmarks nearby include the Lorelei and the Koblenz Electoral Palace. This is castle and its grounds are absolutely lovely. This is a real hidden gem!

>> Click here to check availability and price!

10. Schloss Lieser (Moselle River, near Bernkastle-Keus)

Schloss Lieser is an art nouveau-style castle that is located within close distance to wineries overlooking the Moselle River. It has luxurious rooms with antique and ornate furnishings. Main amenities include an indoor pool, spa, lounge bar, and restaurants.

If you’re planning to explore the Moselle River area or Trier, why not stay where you can easily reach both locations and in a beautiful castle hotel?

>> Click here to check availability and price!

11. Ehrenburg Castle Hotel (Moselle River, near Brodenbach)

Image walking downhill on a wooded path and having the trees suddenly give way to a giant drawbridge and medieval castle! We were completely wowed by the Ehrenburg Castle Hotel. It’s located near both the Mosel and Rhine Rivers in the countryside. Although we couldn’t stay overnight, we purchased admission to explore the extensive and well-maintained castle. What fun!

>> Click here to check price and availability!

12. Schlosshotel Kronberg (near Frankfurt)

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay near Frankfurt, perhaps for your first or last night in Germany, check out Schlosshotel Kronberg.

Schlosshotel Kronberg is a luxury hotel with a range of tastefully decorated suites and rooms featuring antiques and classical artworks. Many of the spacious rooms with balconies offer views of the castle courtyard and the historic park in the grounds. You can even see panoramic views of the Frankfurt skyline from some rooms! 

The hotel is in close proximity to tons of activities. You can play golf in their 18-hole golf course, treat yourself to spa treatments and massages in the Beauty Cottage, or enjoy a cocktail in their bar which occasionally has live music.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

13. Villa Rothschild (Near Frankfurt)

Located in the mountain range of Taunus, this luxe hotel is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Individually designed rooms offer direct access to the beautiful Rothschild park terrace and other amenities.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

14. Hotel Burg Hornberg (Near Heidelberg)

A hilltop castle overlooking the beautiful Neckar Valley. This medieval fortress has been turned into a boutique hotel with stylish modern rooms. There are several packages offered that include accommodation, a candlelit 4-course dinner in their restaurant with panoramic views of the valley and vineyards, and a rich breakfast buffet.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

15. Schloss Bensberg (Cologne Area)

Set in the amazing Baroque palace, the Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg offers luxurious rooms and suites with marble bathrooms. Its restaurant Enoteca has been awarded 2 Michelin stars for its gourmet German cuisine. Luxurious amenities include a spa, indoors pool, sauna, fitness studio, fountain gardens, and beauty treatments. This hotel receives superb reviews.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

Other Great Castle Hotels in Germany

Some of these castle hotels are a little further afield from the most popular spots, but they are still incredible experiences. Others are a bit smaller or are situated next to the centuries-old castle itself. Still others look more like modern palaces as opposed to medieval castles.

Hotel Burg Liebenstein (Rhine River, in Kamp-Bornhofen)

Hotel Burg Liebenstein is a 13th-century castle overlooking the Rhine River with traditional medieval furnishings. Fun dining experiences include candlelit dinner in a medieval banquet hall with local wines. The castle hotel is located across the river between Boppard and Sank Goar, there is a convenient car ferry nearby

Schloss Eckberg (Near Dresden)

Schloss Eckberg stands high above the river Elbe near Dresden. This 19th-century Tudor-style palace boasts of exclusively furnished rooms with marble baths and antique original furnishings. The hotel features two saunas and a fitness room as well as a restaurant that serves a delicious buffet breakfast and regional cuisine. Some rooms are located in the Cavalier’s House in the park, just a short distance from the main building.

>> Click here to check availability and price!

Hotel Schloss Waldeck (Central Germany)

The Hotel Schloss Waldeck is a 4-star hotel that stands on the site of an 11th-century knight’s castle. Its hilltop location offers wonderful views of the surrounding scenery. This historic castle hotel offers elegant rooms with views of Lake Edersee and the surrounding nature parks. A fine dining restaurant and spa are available on site.

A wide range of activities are also available, including golf, sailing, diving and hiking. Guests can relax in the hotel’s cozy room with fireplace or can enjoy a drink at the bar. Free private parking spaces are available to guests.

Schlosshotel Münchhausen (Central Germany)

A luxury hotel located in Lower Saxony in the Natural Park Weser Highlands Schaumburg-Hamelin. It’s near the small town of Hamelin, the setting of the famous fairy tale “Pied Piper of Hamelin.” This 5-star hotel is home to over 60 luxury suites and rooms and three upscale restaurants (one with a Michelin star), an indoor swimming pool, an ice fountain, two adjacent golf courses, and many more. The individually decorated rooms have an elegant mix of vintage furniture with bright and modern touches.

Hotel Burg Trendelburg (Central Germany)

Each of the hotel rooms has been fully integrated within the framework of the historical castle so no two rooms are alike. You’ll find unique touches like a secret door in the wardrobe leading to the bathroom and tall four-poster beds. Each room comes with a complimentary breakfast. The castle also has a spa and wellness center which includes a sauna, a massage-chamber, and a salt-house.

Schlosshotel Hugenpoet (Cologne Area)

This 17th-century castle with a moat has a wide range of modern rooms and suites as well as a separate villa with a terrace and courtyard.

Hotel Schloss Dyck (Cologne Area)

Schloss Dyck is a Baroque-style moated castle located in the Lower Rhine about an hour away from Cologne via car. The castle grounds are spread out over four islands and are surrounded by an English-style landscape garden.

One part of the castle area (a short walk from the main castle building) is a highly rated boutique hotel with 9 modern rooms and a restaurant. 

Hotel Schloss Montabaur (Koblenz Area)

Hotel Schloss Montabaur is an upscale hotel located within the grounds of (not in) the Montabaur Castle. This 4-star historic hotel has scenic views of the Westerwald Mountains which you can enjoy while eating regional dishes at the buffet restaurant in the castle’s terrace. Other amenities include an indoor pool, spa area, saunas, fitness center, and private parking.

Best Castles to Visit in Germany

There is no shortage of castles in Germany. If you can’t get enough of castles and to explore more, then these castles are great for visiting. Some of these can be done as a day trip or even a half-day trip from the nearest city.

You can sometimes even fit to two or more castles in the same day since some are close to each other. For example, if you take the Romantic Road, you’ll be able to visit Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau along the way. Or if you visit Stuttgart or Tübingen, you could visit Castles Hohenzollern and Lichtenstein on the same day.

If you’d like to visit castles while in Germany, check out our castle guides here.

Here is a list of other famous castles in Germany we recommend adding to your Germany bucket list!

• Braunfels Castle
• Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle)
• Burghausen Castle
• Heidelberg Castle
• Hohenschwangau Castle
• Hohenzollern Castle
• Lichtenstein Castle
• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Schwerin Castle
• Wartburg Castle