Germany’s Pretty Little Lichtenstein Castle is a Real Life Fairytale 🏰

Not to be confused with the tiny European nation by a similar name, this petite storybook German castle is the perfect day trip for castle lovers.
Perched high on a cliff in the heart of Germany’s Swabian Alps, Lichtenstein Castle looks like something out of a storybook.
With pointed turrets, neo-Gothic charm, and a stunning natural backdrop, it’s no wonder this pint-sized fortress is known as the “Fairytale Castle of Württemberg.”
Built as a tribute to the medieval past, Lichtenstein Castle was inspired by a novel and designed to ignite the imagination (and it surely does!)
During our years living in Germany, I became mildly obsessed with all the castles within an easy drive of our home in Bavaria. If it was within a 4-hour drive or train ride, it was fair game for a day trip. (The first step is admitting you have a castle problem.)
And while petite Lichtenstein Castle is the smallest castle I visited in Germany, it is still one of my all-time favorites. Because let’s be honest, it is absolutely adorable.
It’s an easy day trip from Stuttgart but also possible from Munich or Frankfurt, especially if you combine it with a visit to one of Germany’s best castles, nearby Hohenzollern.
If you’ve ever dreamed of discovering a hidden fairytale, this might just be the prettiest little castle you’ll ever see.
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So let’s dive into why Lichtenstein Castle deserves a spot on your Germany itinerary.
But first…
It’s Lichtenstein, not Liechtenstein
Despite the similar name, Lichtenstein Castle in Germany is not located in the country of Liechtenstein. The name of the castle derives from a local medieval fortress and the (fictional) historical novel Lichtenstein.
So don’t confuse it with the tiny European nation of Liechtenstein, a landlocked country nestled between Switzerland and Austria. Tiny castle, tiny countries…I get it. It’s confusing.
But it’s worth noting that the country of Liechtenstein has its own fancy castle, Vaduz Castle, which is still a functioning royal residence and home to the country’s monarchy (that’s why it’s not open for tours).
Now back to Germany’s Lichtenstein Castle…
A Brief History of Lichtenstein Castle
Even though it was never a royal residence or traditional defensive stronghold, Lichtenstein Castle has a fascinating history.
The site where Lichtenstein Castle stands today was originally home to a medieval fortress built at the beginning of the 12th century. The original castle played a defensive role during its time but fell into disrepair and was destroyed multiple times over the centuries.
The (current) new castle was built between 1840 and 1842 by Count Wilhelm of Württemberg, a descendant of the ruling family of the Kingdom of Württemberg. He was inspired by the romantic ideals of the 19th century, particularly the novel Lichtenstein by Wilhelm Hauff. The book, a historical novel set during the reign of Duke Ulrich of Württemberg, celebrates the chivalric and heroic ideals of the medieval era.
Built on the ruins of the old castle, Count Wilhelm intended Lichtenstein Castle to serve as a hunting lodge and a personal retreat rather than a permanent residence. Its small size and neo-Gothic style reflect its decorative and romantic purpose rather than practical or defensive needs.
Between 1982 and 1990, the castle underwent an extensive renovation beginning with the outer walls and including the restoration of mural paintings.
The castle remains privately owned by the Dukes of Urach, a family closely connected to the former royal family of Württemberg.
While no one lives there full-time, the castle has been preserved as a historic landmark and is open to visitors. The family maintains the property, ensuring its legacy as a cultural and architectural treasure.
What to See While You’re There
First, be sure to take the Guided Tour. The only way to see the interior is with a guided tour.
There’s no need to make a reservation in advance. Tours take place about every 20 minutes and if you miss one you can easily catch the next one.
The basic tour takes 30 minutes and costs €14.
During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore both the first floor and second floor of the castle’s interior, including furnished rooms, antique weapons, and stained glass windows. Leave some time to wander the lovely castle grounds after your tour.
If you’re pressed for time or the guided tours are booked up, you can also purchase a ticket for €5 just to explore the extensive castle garden.
The castle’s lofty vantage point offers stunning panoramic views over the surrounding areas. It’s a great spot for photography or just soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
When to Visit
Lichtenstein Castle is closed in January and February. The best time to visit is in spring or fall, when the surrounding landscape is lush or covered in autumnal colors. Summer is often a little busier and you might have to wait longer for a tour. However, if you visit in the winter months, you might luck into a snow-covered scene like something out of a Disney movie.
Tours are available daily in March/November/December from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. From April – September extended summer hours are 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Be sure to check the Schloss Lichtenstein website for the latest hours and tour prices.
Getting There
The closest major cities to southern Germany’s Lichtenstein Castle are Stuttgart, Munich, and Frankfurt.
Stuttgart is the closest city and the most practical base for visiting Lichtenstein Castle due to its proximity. The scenic drive is approximately 60km (37 miles) and takes about an hour, depending on traffic. From Munich or Frankfurt, the drive takes between 3 and 4 hours.
However, if you’re exploring the Swabian Alps or the Baden-Württemberg region, it’s a convenient day trip. If you’re coming from farther away, it’s easily combined with a visit to the much larger and more famous Hohenzollern Castle (Burg Hohenzollern) so it’s well worth the trip!
Driving is the easiest way to get there. Public transportation is trickier, though it’s possible to take a train to the town of Reutlingen (the nearest train station) and take a taxi from there. By bus, the closest bus stop to the castle still leaves you with a considerable hike!
Parking is readily available near the castle. From the parking lot, it’s a short walk along a paved footpath to the castle.
So don’t miss Germany’s cutest castle!
If you’re planning a trip to Germany, be sure to add Lichtenstein Castle to your road trip plans. Its dramatic setting on the edge of a cliff and unique architecture make it a favorite destination for history buffs, photographers, and castle enthusiasts (like me!).
Looking for more great things to see in Germany? Start Here:
Magical Neuschwanstein: How to Visit Germany’s Disney Castle Like a Pro
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Germany’s Fairy Tale Christmas Village
Why Lindau, Germany is the Best Bavarian Island You’ve Never Heard Of
Germany’s Best Christmas Markets: Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt