Germany
Top 10 Castles and Viewpoints You Can’t Miss near NRW, Germany
1. BURG ELTZ
Burg Eltz is a fairytale castle tucked deep in the forests of Rhineland-Palatinate. Surrounded by lush green hills and misty valleys, this 12th-century castle is one of the most photogenic and best-preserved castles in Germany—and it’s still owned by the same family who built it over 800 years ago!
Inside, you’ll find furnished medieval rooms, a treasure chamber, and armory displays that bring the Middle Ages to life. The surrounding trails offer peaceful walks with picture-perfect views of the castle nestled in the valley.
- Park at the main parking area, then either take a shuttle bus or enjoy a 15–20 minute forest walk down to the castle.
- Morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds
2. Burg Stolberg
Located right in the heart of Stolberg (near Aachen), Burg Stolberg is a beautiful hilltop castle that dominates the old town with its romantic towers and panoramic views.
Unlike remote castles, this one blends into urban life—you can walk up from the historic center and explore its inner courtyards, museum spaces, and cultural exhibitions. The views over Stolberg’s half-timbered houses are charming, especially in the golden evening light.
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3. Schloss Drachenburg
Schloss Drachenburg, perched dramatically on the Drachenfels hill above the Rhine River, is more palace than fortress. Built in the late 19th century, it looks straight out of a Disney movie, with Neo-Gothic architecture, grand staircases, and colorful stained glass windows.
The palace interiors are lavish, but the real showstopper is the panoramic view over the Rhine Valley—especially in autumn when the hills are ablaze with color.
- You can hike up from the town or take the charming Drachenfelsbahn cogwheel train up the hill
4. Reichsburg Cochem
Towering above the Moselle River, Burg Cochem is one of Germany’s most iconic castles. Rebuilt in the 19th century in a romantic neo-Gothic style, this fairytale castle offers sweeping views over vineyards, colorful half-timbered houses, and the meandering Moselle below.
Inside, you’ll find lavish rooms, detailed wood carvings, and guided tours that walk you through the history of this once-imperial stronghold. The setting is stunning, especially during autumn, when the hills glow in golden tones.
From the town center, it’s a steep 15–20 min walk up or you can take the shuttle bus
Stroll the historic old town, take a Moselle river cruise, or sample local wines from one of the many family-owned wineries.
5. BURG LINN
Nestled in Krefeld, Burg Linn is a peaceful moated castle surrounded by parkland and ancient trees. Originally built in the 12th century, it now hosts a local history museum, temporary exhibitions, and even a collection of medieval armor.
What makes it special is the tranquility of the setting—perfect for a lazy Sunday walk, photography, or a quiet picnic in the adjoining park.
- Burg Linn is part of a larger museum complex, including the Archaeological Museum—perfect if you’re into local history.
6. Burg Hengebach
Perched on a hill in the small town of Heimbach, Burg Hengebach blends medieval charm with modern touches. Though once in ruins, it has been beautifully restored and now hosts art exhibitions, cultural events, and even a restaurant with a view.
Climb the old tower for panoramic views over Eifel National Park, and don’t miss the romantic cobbled paths winding through the castle’s layers.
- Combine your visit with a hike in Eifel National Park, just steps from the castle walls.
7. BURG ALTENA
A true medieval fortress with a dramatic hilltop setting, Burg Altena is a must for castle lovers. Built in the 12th century, it’s best known as the first youth hostel in the world, now a fascinating part of its museum.
Explore its stone halls, towers, and underground passages, all while soaking up views over the Lenne valley. There’s even a cable car (newly installed) that brings you from town to castle in style.
- Castle is free
8. Schlöss Brühl
Located just outside Cologne, Schloss Brühl is a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of two grand Baroque residences—Augustusburg Palace and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. Built in the 18th century, Augustusburg served as a lavish residence for the prince-electors of Cologne.
The palace impresses with its ornate staircases, frescoed halls, and manicured gardens that stretch endlessly in geometric perfection. A short forest walk leads to Falkenlust, a more intimate rococo retreat, built purely for the art of falconry.
- Spring and summer for full garden bloom and sunny palace photos
- Better take guided tour in the morning before 11, than you can see all castle rooms, after you see only half
9. Villa Hügel
Perched above Lake Baldeney in Essen, Villa Hügel is an imposing 19th-century mansion built by the Krupp industrial family. It features 269 rooms (!) and expansive parklands, symbolizing the power and wealth of Germany’s industrial age.
Today, the villa hosts exhibitions, art displays, and concerts, while the surrounding park is perfect for a leisurely stroll with lakeside views.
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10. Schloss paffendorf
A hidden gem near Bergheim, Schloss Paffendorf is a moated castle surrounded by forest and peaceful gardens. Originally built in the 16th century and later remodeled in the Gothic Revival style, it now hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
It’s also the visitor center for RWE, explaining the region’s lignite mining history, but even if you skip the museum, the tranquil setting is ideal for an afternoon stroll.
- Best in late spring or early summer when the garden is in full bloom
- Grab a coffee. or cake. at the cafe, in the summer there is organised Brunch on. Sundays, but remember to book in. advance
