13 Fairytale Munich Castles That You Can’t Miss
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When you’re planning a trip to Munich, you’re probably thinking about all the museums, bars, and events you can attend during your trip. But have you ever thought about visiting one of the many Munich castles?
In this blog, we’re highlighting castles you need to know about in the Munich area. Whether they are more hidden gems or significant pieces of German history, we’ve compiled castles that are worthy of your bucket list.
Keep reading to learn about the best Munich castles.
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Munich Castles
Neuschwanstein Castle
Located in the rolling hills of Bavaria, you’ll find the Neuschwanstein Castle! When you think of a castle, you’re probably thinking of this one. It’s got everything from turrets, detected our decor, and incredible views of the mountains.
Some even consider it the best of all castles in Munich Germany! I’d have to agree – I’ve made the trip out here from Munich and still think about it to this day.
This castle was developed in the 19th century and was built as a place where King Ludwig II could escape in peace. Neuschwanstein has become a super recognizable castle that Disney even modeled their Sleep Beauty Castle after!
Not only is it impressive from the outside, but on the inside, you can get lost imagining what it would be like to live here in its heyday.
Hohenschwangau Castle
If you’re planning on visiting the Neuschwanstein Castle, make sure to stop by the Hohenschwangau Castle as well! They are both located in the same city which means you can fill an entire day just exploring castles!
The Hohenschwangau Castle has unmatched views over Lake Alpsee and the Alps! The family that used to inhabit this palace was the family of King Maximilian II.
His family used to frequent the castle during the summer months and especially for hunting. If you can believe it, when King Maximilian II bought the castle in the 1800s, it was completely falling apart!
Nymphenburg Palace
The Nymphenburg Palace might be one of the most beautiful Munich castles. It’s surrounded by gardens and water, which makes it very aesthetically pleasing.
The palace was where the heir to the throne, Max Emanuel, born in 1662, spent his summers with his family.
This palace is unlike other castles in Munich. It covers a lot of land and is made up of many buildings, pavilions, and gardens. It’s a charming escape from the city life that is just outside of its walls.
If you’re looking for a break from city life during your Munich trip, head on over to Nymphenburg Palace.
Münchner Residenz
The Munchner Residenz used to be the palace of the Wittelsbach monarchs of Bavaria. This Munich castle didn’t used to be as big as it is now! Buildings were first constructed on its current land in the 1300s.
Over the years, the Munchner Residenz has grown larger and larger. It now even showcases many different architectural designs and concepts.
You can explore ten different courtyards and over 130 staged rooms. Visiting here truly feels like stepping back in time!
If you’re an art lover, this castle is for you! One of the most famous pieces about this castle is its long hallway of painted walls and ceilings that’s even lined with sculptures! This castle really gives visitors a chance to peek into Munich’s historical past.
Linderhof Castle
Linderhof Castle is straight out of a fairytale. This is one of the most enhancing castles of Munich. It has picturesque gardens and architecture that you’ll never want to stop staring at. Although it isn’t the largest castle near Munich, it is one to write home about.
Just like the Neuschwanstein Castle, the Linderhof Castle was also constructed by King Ludwig II of Bavaria. This castle was the only one in which the king spent the majority of his time. When King Ludwig II first inherited the castle, it was a small hunting lodge. It wasn’t until 1869 that he began turning it into what it is today.
Prunn Castle
The Prunn Castle of Munich is one of the most medieval castles in the area! This is an example of a castle that has been preserved for visitors for centuries. This castle was built in 1200. It is believed to have been first used by the Lords of Prunn and was later taken under the control of Duke Ludwig of Bavaria.
This castle is hard to miss. It sticks out on a cliff face overlooking the Altmuhl River. From the castle itself, it has stunning views of the area. Prunn Castle can only be visited during a private tour, so make sure to book one ahead of time.
Herrenchiemsee Palace
Herrenchiemsee Palace is one of the Munich castles that is modeled after another incredible piece of architecture. This palace was created to be similar to France’s Palace of Versailles!
You might know the Herrenchiemsee Palace by its infamous hall of mirrors. But also inside, you’ll find rooms with floor-to-ceiling decorations that are over the top. Even on the outside, you’ll be able to admire the gardens and sculptures that make it unique.
One of the most interesting parts of this palace is that it’s on an island! This castle sits on the island of Herreninsel, which is located in the Chiemsee Lake.
To visit it, you’ll have to take a boat ride! This added attraction really gives the castle that much more regalness. If you have the time while exploring Munich, this castle is worth a visit.
Schleissheim Palace
Although this isn’t a castle in Munich, it is close enough to spend several hours exploring. The Schleissheim Palace was built in the 17th century. Before this palace became what it is today, it started as a country house created by William V, a Duke of Bavaria in the late 1500s.
Most recently, this palace was used as a summer house for the Bavarian rulers of the House of Wittelsbach.
Today, this palace is absolutely massive. Inside its walls, there are actually three other palaces! During a visit, you can explore gardens and courtyards and even marvel at the incredibly painted ceilings!
If you’re into art, make sure you visit this palace when you’re in the Munich area. The painted ceilings were in part responsible for starting the era of ceiling paintings in southern Germany!
Burghausen Castle
What’s not to love about a castle on the river?! The Burghausen Castle is in the record books as the longest castle complex in the entire world. This impressive complex is believed to be founded before the year 1025.
Since its inception, this castle has changed hands many times. In 1255, it was known as the second residence for the Dukes of Lower Bavaria, while in 1779, it became a ‘border castle’ after the Treaty of Teschen.
Considering its long history, this castle is still standing today. It has many courtyards and towers which have incredible views of the area.
If you are a history buff, this castle is for you. Sitting right on the Germany-Austria border, you can learn a lot about the historical significance of the area during a visit.
Würzburg Residence
The Wurzburg Residence is one of the only Munich castles that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It earned this title for its incredible architecture and design. During the 18th century, this castle belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Wurzburg, Johann Philipp Franz von Schonborn.
At the time, the castle was not as big as it is today. During this time, the Prince-Bishop decided to update the castle and attempt to make it look as magnificent as the castles we know and love now, such as the Palace of Versailles and the Schonbrunn Palace.
During the course of WWII, this castle was mostly destroyed. Today, the Wurzburg Residence has architectural features from Paris, Venice, Amsterdam, and northern Italy. Even after its restoration, it is still one of the most impressive places you can visit in Europe.
Nuremberg Castle
The Nuremberg Castle will take you right back to the Middle Ages. It’s a massive complex that’s made up of several buildings that give glimpses into the past. This castle is believed to have been built around the year 1000.
If you are into history this castle has an awesome museum where you can learn even more about the events and time period in which the castle was built and thrived.
Besides being one of the most famous castles in the area, it also has the best views of Nuremberg and beyond. In short, this castle has stood the test of time.
When you are planning your visit, make sure to check the website, as the castle gardens are not open year-round.
Trausnitz Castle
Constructed in the 13th century, the Trausnitz Castle sits high above the Landshut area. This castle was home to the Bavarian Wittelsbach dynasty from the 13th to 16th centuries.
One thing that makes this castle really unique is its array of artifacts from the medieval ages when Trausnitz Castle was used most heavily. During a visit, you can check out the Knights’ Hall, which is a massive room that’s now used for events.
Another thing to check out during your visit is the Tower Terrace. This terrace offers incredible views of the city below. Whether you’re into history or not, you won’t be bored learning about this castle on a tour!
Blutenburg Castle
The Blutenburg Castle is considered a hidden gem of castles near Munich. It was built in the 15th century with architecture that will take you back to the gothic ages. It was created for Duke Albert III as his own hunting lodge.
When you see this castle, it’s easy to see how someone would want to escape into its halls. It features beautiful gardens and even sits next to the river Wurm. One of the coolest pieces about this castle is The Great Hall.
This room features stained glass windows that you could spend hours looking at. Another huge tourist attraction of the Blutenburg Castle is its church. Its intricate architecture is something you don’t want to miss.
Final Thoughts: Castles of Munich
Every one of the Munich castles has its own place in history. Whether inherited or bought, these castle walls have seen a lot of change not only in Germany but in Europe since their construction. Each castle attracts a different kind of traveler.
Whether you’re interested in learning about the history of a moment in time or just want to admire some art, there’s a Munich castle for you.
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