9 Best Castles in Frankfurt, Germany: Must-visit castles in 2024!

Frankfurt's gorgeous location in the Hesse region will make all your fairytale dreams spring to life.

From the Rhine River meandering through serene fields to the forested hilltops and valleys. This picturesque landscape is a popular tourist region. But it's the famous German castles in Frankfurt, that truly sets the area apart. 

Castles in Frankfurt, Germany

In this guide, you'll find the best castles near Frankfurt that are perfect for a day trip, as well as what makes them worth the visit. And we cover the logistics of how to get to each one. 

1. Castle Steinau

Castle Steinau is one of the most famous castles in Frankfurt because of its association with the Brothers Grimm. The popular fairy tale authors grew up in Steinau. The castle is also known as the Brothers Grimm museum, with permanent exhibitions on the top floor. You can find famous authors'’ works in the exhibits of the museum – from writings to portraits.

Aside from its ties with famous German authors, Castle Steinau is also one of the largest castle complexes in Frankfurt since the 16th century. Through the years, it served as a residence for the nobility. 

The architecture of Steinau is notable for its mysterious charm. The Gothic-style architecture makes it one of the most beautiful German castles. 

Traveling to Castle Steinau

Steinau Castle is approximately an hour's drive away from Frankfurt. There are also guided and non-guided tours available at the castle. 

To get here, you can take the regional train to Steinau or take the Autobahn 66 if you're driving. 

2. Eltz Castle

Eltz Castle is one of the most stunning German medieval castles in Frankfurt and its surrounds. Eltz was originally built in 1157. To this day, the castle is still owned by the Eltz family. 

The family continues to reside in the castle, which has been the case for 33 generations. And the original furnishings of the castle are intact from the time it was built!

Apart from the stunning medieval architecture and the inner courtyard packed with historic buildings, the scenery outside the castle is just as breathtaking. It's built atop a hill with an overlooking view of the Moselle River. 

Traveling to Eltz Castle

Eltz Castle is a bit of a drive from Frankfurt, a little over 2 hours away. But it's well worth the drive!

The castle is open for tours. You can book a full-day tour from Frankfurt or commute to Eltz at your own pace by taking the train to Hazenport or catching the bus 365 to Eltz Castle. 

3. Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Frankfurt, Germany. It's the best example of German Renaissance architecture with Gothic elements. 

The castle was demolished and rebuilt from the 17th to the 18th century. The medieval castle is one of the most impressive structures in the region. 

Traveling to Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle is approximately an hour away from Frankfurt via A5 and A67 toward Romerberg. Tourists can also take the train from Frankfurt Main station. 

4. Marburg Castle

Marburg Castle is situated a little over an hour away from Frankfurt, Germany. The castle was built in the 11th century as a fort before being converted into a museum. This is one of the castles in Frankfurt that features several historic rooms, including the gorgeous secular Gothic halls. 

Marburg sits atop a hill with an overlooking view of Frankfurt and its nearby areas. The view alone makes a trip to the castle worth it! 

Traveling to Marburg Castle

To get there, you can drive via A5 and A485 or take the train from Frankfurt to Marburg (it takes approximately 2 hours). 

5. The Castle of Budingen

More than 20 generations of the Ysenburgs have inhabited the Castle of Budingen. The castle has been one of the iconic symbols of the Hesse region since the 13th century. 

The Castle of Bundingen has many distinctive features, including the Gothic chapel, carved choir stalls, and its unique interior. The design was for protection from military invasion. It's undeniably one of the most beautiful medieval German castles. 

Traveling to the Castle of Budingen

Castle Budingen is an hour's drive from Frankfurt. If you're traveling by train then it may take twice as long. Catch a train to the nearby town of Gelnhausen and from there you'll find a connection to Budingen.

6. Landgrave Castle

The Landgrave Castle was primarily built as a hunting lodge. It was commissioned for Landgrave Philipp the Magnanimous in 1550 and completed in 1557. 

Today, this castle is used as the administrative office of the district court and tax office. There are a few notable features in the castle that you shouldn't miss. At the top of that list are the Palace Garden and the castle pond. 

The Renaissance style makes it yet another one of the castles in Frankfurtthat'ss worth the trip!

Traveling to Landgrave Castle

This Renaissance castle of your dreams is a mere 30min drive by car. A train might take you an hour. 

7. Wertheim Castle

The Wertheim Castle is a 15th-century castle boasting stunning Renaissance architecture. The architectural detail is unusual yet equally as stunning as the other famous German castles. Located on a craggy hill, it's a distinctive feature of the Wertheim skyline. 

Wertheim Castle was originally used as the domicile for the Counts of Wertheim. In the early 17th century, it was destroyed in an explosion. Since then, the castle has been restored and is now the venue for many cultural events in the region. 

Traveling to Wertheim Castle

You can find your way to Wertheim castle either by train, bus or car. A car journey is the quickest and will take you less than an hour. If you catch a train from Frankfurt main station, then you'll arrive there in approximately 2 hours. A bus journey will take about 3 hours but is slightly more affordable, and sometimes it's a great way to see the countryside!

8. Schloss (castle) Johannisburg

The Schloss Johannisburg is one of the castles in Frankfurt with lots of eventful history. It's also one of the must-see castles in Germany because of its impeccable design. Yet another German architectural standout! It's considered to be the best example of German Renaissance architecture.

The four-winged castle complex is located near the River Main. It was built in 1605 and completed in 1614. The interior of the castle underwent renovation in the 18th century and was fitted with Neoclassical details and furnishings. 

The castle is open for visitors if you want to embark on a Frankfurt castle tour. There is a comprehensive art gallery that's a  must for art lovers. Here you'll find the best works from notable German artists. 

Traveling to Schloss Johannisburg

Schloss Johannisburg is highly accessible and will take a mere 40 minutes either by train or car! Yay!

9. Wurzburg Palace

The Wurzburg Palace completes this list of the most beautiful castles in Frankfurt that you can't afford to miss. Built in 1720, this Baroque/Rococo-style castle is the best example of the era's high culture. The beauty of the exterior and interior is jaw-dropping. 

During your visit, don't miss the Imperial Hall, the chapel, and the grand staircase. Wurzburg Castle is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its stunning architecture and rich history. 

Traveling to Wurzburg Palace

From the Frankfurt Airport, the Wurzburg Palace is approximately 1 hour and 11 minutes away. You can travel via car from the city center of Frankfurt via A3 or take the train from Frankfurt Main station towards Munchen Hbf. 

Castle stays in Frankfurt

How about a night of true luxury? Book yourself a room in one of these sumptuous castles in Frankfurt and enjoy the royal treatment. Go on, you deserve it!

Castle Kronberg

It's hard to miss the unique Neo-Gothic style architecture of Kronberg Castle. It's one of the castles around Frankfurt to stay in if you are looking for unique accommodation. 

The castle was originally built in 1889 in Kronberg im Taunus and is only a short drive from Frankfurt. The architect behind this castle was Ernst Von Ihne. He was also known as a royal architect and built many castles for the royals. 

Castle Kronberg was renovated into a five-star hotel. Its bold and regal architecture style draws guests from all over the world. 

Hotel Schloss Montabaur

Another one on the list of the best castles to stay in Frankfurt is Hotel Schloss Montabaur. This hotel is set on the same grounds as the Montabaur Castle. 

It features Baroque-style architecture with a view overlooking the city. Hotel Schloss is a convenient 8-minute walk from the Montabaur railway station.

The rooms in this hotel are modern and elegant. With a buffet restaurant, terrace, spa, and indoor pool, you couldn't ask for more. It has every feature that you would expect from a modern hotel with the added bonus of a gorgeous, historic setting. 

Build Your Perfect Germany Itinerary with Pilot!

Whether you're seeking a fairy tale adventure or simply want to experience something new, Germany has plenty to offer. Be sure to check out our guides to help you discover what awaits your visit. From Berlin to Frankfurt, we've got you covered! 

Now all that's needed is to put your travel itinerary together and head out into the land of castles and Oktoberfest.