If you've always wanted a fairytale trip and have a thing for castles, this is the post for you. Read the article and set off to discover the Germany of fairy tales!
Once upon a time there was a princess who lived in a beautiful castle… more or less this is how the fairy tales they told us as children began, when with dreamy eyes we imagined those mysterious and wonderful places. Part of that dream is achievable if you opt for your next vacation a tour among castles, to experience the Germany of fairy tales.
From Bavaria to Rhineland, from Pomerania to Thuringia, our post will accompany you to discover the most beautiful castles in Germany, to experience your fairytale holiday, in the true meaning of the term.
1. Bavaria: the castles of Linderhof and Neuschwanstein
In Bavaria, about fifty minutes away from each other, are the castles of Linderhof and Neuschwanstein. Both built by Ludwig II, Linderhof Castle was the only one he saw completed among his residences. Built in the French Rococo style, inspired by the style of Louis XV of France, the Château de Linderhof has terraced gardens, which among other things, house a waterfall, the Venus Grotto, the Gurnewanz Hermitage and the Hunding Hut. The latter are the personal homage that Ludwig II reserved to Richard Wagner, paying homage to his musical dramas through these sets.
Neuschwanstein Castle is the best known of the German castles, and like the others, for its stylistic and architectural features, it was chosen by Disney as a model for the castle of Princess Aurora from Sleeping Beauty.
For both the visit must be booked in advance, maximum two days in advance for Neuschwanstein Castle, whose tickets must be collected at the ticket office of the town of Hohenschwangau.
For a tour within the tour, you can extend your visit to Bavaria and visit all the residences built by Ludwig II, such as the royal castle of Herrenchiemsee, built in the image and likeness of the Palace of Versailles; Nymphemburg Castle, in Munich, which houses the Carriage Museum and the birthplace of Ludwig II.
2. Rhineland: Eltz Castle
Going up towards the western part of Germany, we arrive in the Rhineland, at Eltz Castle. The castle, with its eight hundred and fifty years of history, is located in the Moselle valley, protected by nature and rock. Its appearance recalls that of an ancient medieval manor. The romantic poet Victor Hugo also praised its magnificence. It has belonged to the same family since it was built, and the furnishings are the same as eight centuries earlier.
3. Thuringia: Wartburg Castle
From the Rhineland to Thuringia, we meet the Wartburg castle in Eisenach: first castle in Germany to be recognized as a UNESCO heritage site, for having played a crucial role in German history. Here, in fact, Martin Luther found refuge after his exile, and here he translated the New Testament into the German language. Richard Wagner set a battle of the opera Tannhauser. In addition, every year in December, the castle hosts the Christmas market.
4. Pomerania: Schwerin Castle
Going up towards Pomerania, we find the Schwerin castle. Surrounded by Lake Schwerin, the castle is now the seat of the Parliament, but guided tours are organized. The lake is navigable by ferries. Furthermore, the castle is famous for the legends that surround it, one of which speaks of a poltergeist.
