Germany is home to over 20,000 castles — from fairytale palaces perched on mountains to medieval ruins hidden in quiet valleys. The best part? Many of them are easily reachable by train, making them perfect for tourists traveling without a car.
In this guide, discover the top best castles to visit in germany by train — complete with travel tips, nearby cities, and what to expect.
- No need to rent a car or drive on the Autobahn
- Most castles are near towns or cities with direct rail connections
- Use passes like the Deutschlandticket or Bayern Ticket for affordable travel
🏰 1. Neuschwanstein Castle (Bavaria)
Nearest Station: Füssen
From: Munich (2 hrs)
Ticket Needed: Bayern Ticket
Neuschwanstein is Germany’s most famous castle — and possibly the inspiration for Disney’s Cinderella Castle. It’s set against the stunning Bavarian Alps.
Travel Tip: From Füssen station, take a local bus or walk ~30 minutes uphill.
🔗 Neuschwanstein from Munich Guide
🏯 2. Hohenzollern Castle (Baden-Württemberg)
Nearest Station: Hechingen
From: Stuttgart (~1.5 hrs)
Ticket Needed: Baden-Württemberg-Ticket
Hohenzollern looks like it belongs in a fantasy novel — perched high on a hill, it’s home to the Prussian royal family heritage.
Travel Tip: From Hechingen station, shuttle buses run to the castle entrance.
🧱 3. Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz, Rhineland-Palatinate)
Nearest Station: Moselkern
From: Koblenz (~40 mins)
Ticket Needed: Rheinland-Pfalz-Ticket
Hidden in a lush valley, Burg Eltz feels untouched by time. Unlike many castles, it’s still owned by the original family.
Travel Tip: From Moselkern station, walk ~1 hour through scenic forest trails or take a seasonal shuttle.
🪵 4. Wartburg Castle (Thuringia)
Nearest Station: Eisenach
From: Erfurt (~1 hr)
Ticket Needed: Thüringen Ticket or Deutschlandticket
A UNESCO World Heritage site where Martin Luther translated the New Testament. It’s rich in German history and has beautiful views.
Travel Tip: Take bus line 3 or hike 30 minutes from Eisenach station.
🧱 5. Cochem Castle (Rhineland-Palatinate)
Nearest Station: Cochem
From: Koblenz (~50 mins)
Ticket Needed: Deutschlandticket or Rheinland-Pfalz-Ticket
Perched above the Moselle River, this medieval castle offers panoramic views, wine tours, and knight-style dinners.
Travel Tip: Short walk or shuttle from Cochem station through the old town.
🏙️ Bonus: Heidelberg Castle (Easy Urban Access)
Nearest Station: Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof
From: Frankfurt (~1 hr)
Ticket Needed: Deutschlandticket
Easily one of the most romantic ruins in Europe, this castle combines old-world architecture with city charm.
Travel Tip: Take the funicular railway to reach the castle from town.
🎟️ Best Train Passes to Use:
| Pass Name | Where It Works | Ideal For |
|---|
| Deutschlandticket (€58) | All of Germany (regional only) | Slow, scenic travel across states |
| Bayern Ticket | Bavaria only | Neuschwanstein, Munich trips |
| Länder Tickets | One region only (e.g., Thüringen, Rheinland) | Eltz, Cochem, Wartburg |
🔗 Germany Train Travel Guide
🔗 Germany 58 Euro Ticket
🧳 Final Thoughts
You don’t need a rental car to explore Germany’s iconic castles — just a rail pass, a camera, and a love for history. These castles are perfect day trips or weekend escapes and give you a real glimpse into the legends and beauty of Germany.
also If you love scenic spots, check out our guide to the most beautiful villages in Germany.