There’s nothing more quintessential German than visiting one of the country’s magnificent castles. And with an estimated 25,000 castles in Germany, you’re always near one!
So if you want to visit castles in Germany near Frankfurt, where can you go? Which German castles near Frankfurt am Main are the best and easiest to visit from Frankfurt?
In this guide, we’ll help you discover the top 10 best castles near Frankfurt Germany with all the information you need for a fabulous half-day or full-day trip to discover somewhere very special.
Each of these castles around Frankfurt, Germany offer a unique glimpse into Germany’s rich past. From fairy-tale settings to ancient fortresses, these stunning structures invite you to step back in time while enjoying breathtaking views along the way.
Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a charming getaway, these castles close to Frankfurt have something for everyone. Each site has its own character, showcasing diverse architectural styles and historical significance that make them worthwhile destinations.
Join me as we explore the captivating tales of these castles, learn how to get there, and discover why each of these castles Frankfurt Germany should be on your travel list. Let’s uncover the magic that awaits just a short drive or train ride from Frankfurt!
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Unmissable German Castles Near Frankfurt am Main For Your Next Trip 🥰
I hope you love these best castles near Frankfurt as much as me! They are sorted by distance – so how far each castle is from Frankfurt. It starts with castles in Frankfurt Germany and then moves further away.
I have some information about how long it takes to drive as well as getting to the castles by public transport. Some of the castles are super easy by public transport, some are better reached by car, so you’ll want to take that into account as well when picking which ones to visit.
I have read a few lists written by others on this topic, but they have all included castles half the country away! Which isn’t how far most people want to go on a day trip. All of our castles close to Frankfurt Germany below are within a couple of hours of Frankfurt. And they are absolutely fantastic!
1. Kronberg Castle (Burg Kronberg)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 25km (25 minutes drive)
Train Directions: Take the S-Bahn (S4) from Frankfurt to Kronberg station (about 22 minutes), then it’s a short walk uphill to the castle.
When you visit Kronberg Castle, you’ll step into a delightful piece of history. Built between 1889 and 1893 for the dowager German Empress Victoria (a daughter of British Queen Victoria), this castle was her main residence.
Situated on a hilltop, it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
You can’t wander the castle as it’s now a hotel. However, you can stay here or visit for a meal or drink in the castle’s restaurant or bar.
This one of the castles in Frankfurt area is really only recommended for people very short on time who want a super easy castle experience as it’s the quickest one to visit. There are better castles on this list, however.
2. Burg Frankenstein
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 48km (40 minutes drive)
Train Directions: Take regional train 60 from Frankfurt to Darmstadt, then take tram 1 to Darmstadt-Eberstadt Wartehalle and bus BE1 to Mühltal-Nieder-Beerbach. From here, it’s a 30-minute walk.
At Burg Frankenstein, you’ll find a treasure trove of legends and history. Dating back to the 13th century, this (now ruined) castle is steeped in rich lore and is reputed to have inspired Mary Shelley’s famous novel.
And while that is disputed, there are many myths and legends about this place with stories about one of the previous occupants in the 17th century doing experiments on dead bodies. There are also stories about a dragon that lived in the gardens! Among many others.
As you explore the ancient stone walls and towering remnants, you can almost feel the echoes of the past. Don’t miss the breathtaking views overlooking the Odenwald forests that surround you.
The annual Halloween festivals add an eerie charm, where you can immerse yourself in the darker tales of the castle.
While this one of the castles close to Frankfurt Germany is not far to drive from Frankfurt, it is a little complicated by public transport.
3. Mespelbrunn Castle (Burg Mespelbrunn)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 72km (1 hour drive)
Train Directions: You’ll need your own car to visit here
Mespelbrunn Castle welcomes you into a fairy tale. Nestled in a tranquil forest in a relatively secluded location, this stunning 15th-century moated castle boasts captivating architecture and picturesque surroundings.
As you explore the intricate half-timbered design and vibrant frescoes, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The serene moat and beautifully landscaped gardens invite you to relax and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
It’s still a family home and visits are only by guided tours provide fascinating stories about the noble families who once called this castle home, making your visit both informative and enjoyable. However, tours are only in German but you can get an English script.
With its idyllic setting, perfect for photographs, Mespelbrunn is truly a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a magical escape.
4. Burg Rheinstein
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 74km (1 hour drive)
Train Directions: It is tricky to get here by public transport. At certain times of day, you can catch regional trains to get to Trechtingshausen. From here, it’s about a 30-minute walk.
As you approach Burg Rheinstein, perched on a ridge above the Rhine River, you’ll be captivated by its dramatic presence. Dating back to the 14th century, this castle was built as a toll castle and played a role in the region’s defense.
After years of neglect, it underwent meticulous restoration in the 19th century after it was bought by the Prussian Prince Friedrich Wilhelm, resulting in its picturesque current state. The castle was bought by the Hecher Family in 1975 who still run it today.
For visitors, this picturesque castle is home to a museum with a great collection of 17th-19th century furnishings, knights’ armour and weapons from the 15th century, cast-iron oven slabs and hunting trophies. You can also find stained glass windows from the 1300s to the 1800s, wall and ceiling frescoes and much more.
There is a signposted walk to help you explore the castle which takes about 45 minutes. You can also optionally purchase a guide book or a cool children’s guide book for a few extra euros.
The panoramic views of the Rhine and its quaint villages below are simply stunning.
This is a great choices of the castles near Frankfurt to visit.
5. Steinau Castle (Burg Steinau)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 81km (1 hour drive)
Train Directions: Take a regional train from Frankfurt to Steinau an der Straße (about 1 hour). From here, it’s about a 20-minute walk or you can take a bus.
At Steinau Castle, you’ll discover a charming medieval fortress deeply connected to the Brothers Grimm, who drew inspiration from the tales of this region. It’s believed it was founded in the 13th century with the main appearance as you see it today built in the 16th century. It’s one of the largest and best looked after castle complexes in the state of Hesse.
It’s home to a wide moat, drawbridges and more to serve as a fortress as well as being a residence to the Counts of Hanau-Münzenberg. The Counts decorated the interiors magnificently and you can explore this today while you admire the restoration efforts that have preserved its historic beauty. You can also climb the tower.
The exhibitions in the castle showcase not just the history of the building, but the fairy tales that have enchanted generations. The famous Brothers Grimm spent their childhood in Steinau and there are exhibits offering you a glimpse into the imaginative world of the Grimms.
With vibrant gardens surrounding the castle, you’ll find plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Easily reached on public transport, this is a great option of the famous castles near Frankfurt.
6. Heidelberg Castle (Schloss Heidelberg)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 94km (1 hour 10 minutes drive)
Train Directions: Take a regional train from Frankfurt to Heidelberg (about 1.25 hours). Take a S-bahn to the old town and then you can walk or take a funicular railway up to the castle.
As you explore Heidelberg Castle, you’ll be captivated by its dramatic ruins set against the backdrop of the scenic Neckar River valley. This iconic castle dates back to around 1300 when it was a fortress. Later, it was expanded to be a palace fit for German kings and electors. Its blend of Gothic and Renaissance elements provides a stunning architectural landscape.
Today, it’s party in ruins and has not been inhabited since a lightning strike in 1764.
Walking through the expansive grounds, you can visit the Great Barrel, one of the largest wine barrels in the world, which speaks to the region’s rich viticulture. The breathtaking views from the hilltop are perfect for photography, especially during sunset. You can take audio or guided tours, although you do need a guided tour to go inside.
Visiting Heidelberg Castle is not just about seeing a historical monument; it’s about experiencing the magical essence of one of Germany’s most beloved cities and with a day trip here, you should definitely explore more of Heidelberg than just its famous castle.
Click here to read our full guide to Heidelberg or here for our day trip itinerary.
7. Marksburg Castle (Burg Marksburg)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 101km (1 hour 30 minutes drive)
Train Directions: Take a train from Frankfurt to Braubach (approximately 2 hours), then walk about 20 minutes uphill to the castle.
Also in the Rhine Valley, Marksburg Castle is the only hilltop castle on the Rhine that has never been destroyed, with origins dating back to the 13th century.
As you walk through its well-preserved rooms and towers, you’ll get a sense of the medieval life that once thrived within its walls. The castle was strategically built to oversee the Rhine River and protect local trade routes, which makes its history even more fascinating.
Today, the castle offers guided tours that provide insight into its architecture, defensive mechanisms, and role in local history. The sweeping views of the Rhine valley from the battlements are breathtaking and make for an unforgettable experience that beautifully encapsulates the romance of the region.
If you are looking for medieval castles near Frankfurt, this is a top pick.
8. Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 147km (2 hours drive)
Train Directions: Take an ICE train from Frankfurt to Koblenz (approximately 1.75 hours), then take a regional train to Hatzenport (about 30 minutes). From here, there are buses to the castle from May to November.
When you arrive at Eltz Castle, you’ll be greeted by one of the most picturesque sights in Germany. It’s one of the best looking castles I have ever seen.
This spectacular castle has been owned by the same family for over 850 years and remains remarkably well-preserved, showcasing medieval architecture at its finest. It was built on a large rock surrounded by the Elzbach River on three sides.
As you approach the castle through the wooded valley, the enchanting view will take your breath away. Inside, guided tours lead you through its elegant rooms, filled with historical artifacts that tell the story of the Eltz family and their significance in the region.
The castle’s unique design, characterized by a collection of towers and buildings, offers a fairy-tale atmosphere. The beautiful surrounding grounds and hiking trails allow you to soak up the natural beauty, making your visit to Eltz Castle a magical experience you’ll cherish forever.
This is a top choice if you have access to a car and don’t mind the drive.
9. Cochem Castle (Reichsburg Cochem)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 154km (2 hours drive)
Train Directions: Take a train from Frankfurt to Koblenz (around 1.75 hours), and then a train to Cochem (around 35 minutes). It’s a steep walk or short bus ride to the castle.
Cochem Castle (or Reichsburg), towering over the Moselle River, is a majestic sight with its rich history dating back over a thousand years. Originally built in the 11th century, it has experienced various phases of destruction and reconstruction. The last rebuilding was in the 19th century and that’s what you see today.
As you make your way to the hilltop castle, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the surrounding vineyards and charming villages sprawled along the river. Once you enter, 40-minute guided tours showcase the castle’s lavishly decorated rooms, filled with art, weapons, and artifacts that narrate its fascinating past.
The fairy-tale aspect of the castle is enhanced by the myths and legends that the locals share, making it more than just a historical site. The picturesque landscapes, especially during autumn when the vineyards showcase vibrant colors, ensure that your visit to Cochem Castle is both enchanting and memorable.
Close to Eltz Castle, you could easily visit both castles in the same day with your car.
Click here to read our full guide to visiting Cochem.
10. Ludwigsburg Residential Palace (Residenzschloss Ludwigsburg)
Distance from Frankfurt: Approximately 190km (2 hours drive)
Train Directions: Take an ICE train from Frankfurt to Stuttgart (around 1.75 hours), then a regional train to Ludwigsburg. From here, it’s a bus ride or nice walk to the palace.
More a palace than a castle, I couldn’t help but add my favorite palace in Germany to this list.
As you step into the Ludwigsburg Residential Palace, you’ll be transported to the Baroque era. Known as one of the largest palaces in Germany (452,000 square feet and 452 rooms), it was commissioned by Duke Eberhard Ludwig of Württemberg in the 18th century and features magnificent architecture and lush gardens.
Inside the palace are ornately decorated rooms, which are filled with period furniture and intricate chandeliers. The opulent decor and rich history create a captivating experience that underscores the grandeur of the ducal court and makes Ludwigsburg a spectacular destination.
Visits through the palace are by tour only. These depart every half hour in German (outside the winter months) and there are also some afternoon tours in English. This is the best palace tour I have done in Germany with the theatre being worth the tour alone. It’s amazing.
The palace also houses four museums, each a prominent cultural institution. The Baroque Gallery presents a rich collection of European paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries, displaying the art and sensibilities that shaped the era. There is also a Fashion Museum, Ceramics Museum and Theater Museum.
The grounds surrounding the palace are also gorgeous. They take up 30 hectares and have French, English and Medieval designs.
You can easily spend half a day or more here, and it’s definitely one of the best castles to visit near Frankfurt.
Click here to read our full guide to visiting Ludwigsburg.
Best Castles In Germany Near Frankfurt?
As we’ve explored the enchanting castles near Frankfurt, it’s clear that each site carries its own unique story and charm. Whether you’re drawn to the rich history, the stunning architecture, or the breathtaking views, these castles offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
So it’s very hard to pick the best castle you should visit near Frankfurt. It really depends on the time you have available, whether you have access to a car, how far you want to go and what your preferences are.
My favorites on this list are the ones furthest away. I’d pick Cochem and Eltz if you have a car and are happy to spend a day in the gorgeous Moselle Valley. Ludwigsburg Residential Palace is also amazing.
If you want to stay closer to Frankfurt or don’t have a car, Steinau Castle is my top pick. Or with a day, Heidelberg is awesome.
The best part is that there are plenty of castles near Frankfurt to chose from and I’m sure you’ll love exploring them.
Want to see more castles?! Find our list of the top castles in Germany here and the best castle hotels (yes, you can stay in one!) here. You can also find our guide to things to do in Frankfurt here and best hotels in Frankfurt here. You can also find all our travel guides to Western Germany here.
