9 of the Top Medieval Castles Near Frankfurt

One of the top medieval castles near Frankfurt is Greifenstein Castle, a grand stone structure dating back to the 13th century. Like many castles of its kind, Greifenstein passed through many different hands over the years before eventually falling into disrepair. In the mid-20th century, it was restored to its former glory and in 1984, the German Bell Museum opened within the property. Visit to wander the halls, climb its towers, and learn about the history of bell ringing.

Located on a hill above the Moselle Valley, the grand Eltz Castle looks straight out of a picture book. Construction of the castle began in the 12th century, but it wasn’t finished until hundreds of years later, under the care of the von Eltz noble family. Unlike many other grand fortresses in Germany, Eltz Castle remained untouched by conflict in the region; its extravagant dressing rooms, old armory, and other spaces remain in remarkably good shape, making it one of the best castles near Frankfurt to visit.

The UNESCO–listed Wartburg Castle is among the must-see castles near Frankfurt, especially for those interested in German history, which you can visit on a day tour from the city. The medieval fortress was constructed in the 11th century for a prince, but its most significant moment came in the 16th century, when an exiled Martin Luther hid out in the castle and translated the Bible into German.

Did you know?: Wartburg Castle is said to have inspired the construction of one of Germany’s most famous castles: Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria.

The grand Stahleck Castle is a 12th-century property that sits on a cliff above the Rhine in the small town of Bacharach, around a 1.5-hour drive from Frankfurt. First constructed by the Archbishops of Cologne, it was once home to various royal families in Germany before being destroyed by an Italian army during the Thirty Years’ War. In the 20th century, it was rebuilt and converted into a youth hostel, where you can book a stay. Look out for the water-filled moat, a rare sight among Germany’s medieval castles.

While slightly more modest than some other castles on this list, Mespelbrunn Castle makes for an ideal day trip from Frankfurt. It’s located just southeast of the city, perched on its very own lake in the middle of the dense forest. As the story goes, the castle’s land was gifted to a knight for his loyal service. Learn more about the picturesque castle’s history as you tour the grounds, then relax in the castle’s café and beer garden.

All castles feel worthy of fairy tales, but Steinau Castle has an even stronger tie to folklore than the rest—it’s home to an exhibit on the Brothers Grimm, who grew up nearby. After wandering through the imposing fortress to the opulently decorated and well-preserved rooms, head to the upper floors to see objects from the brothers’ childhood and learn about what inspired them to write and popularize stories including Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin.

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Landgrave Castle is one of the most historic castles near Frankfurt, known for its grand Gothic Prince’s Hall and its religious significance. In 1529, three centuries after it was built, the castle welcomed Martin Luther and Ulrich Zwingli for an important debate over their differing interpretations of the Bible, named the Marburg Colloquy. Now the castle is a museum and center for cultural education. Visit on a walking tour to learn about its history, and see more highlights in the town of Marburg.

If you’re seeking a castle around Frankfurt that offers city views, look no further than Kronberg Castle. The building has layers upon layers of history: the upper part was constructed in the 12th century, while the so-called “middle castle” was built by the Lords of Kronberg in the 14th century. Centuries later, Kronberg Castle was purchased and taken over by Empress Victoria, the daughter of Queen Victoria, and became a museum after her death.

Though there isn’t much proof, some believe Mary Shelley was inspired to write Frankenstein after visiting Frankenstein Castle in 1814. The 13th-century building is cloaked in mystery, thanks to tales of a strange alchemist and physician born there, much like the character of Victor Frankenstein. Although the castle isn’t completely intact anymore, you can still explore its two towers, grab a bite to eat in the café, and decide for yourself whether the connection to the famous book is just a coincidence.