17 Best Castles in Hamburg to Visit

Updated on January 20, 2024  

castles in hamburg

Check out Hamburg's coolest castles! From Ludwigsluster Castle's big walls to Gottorf Castle's fancy look, we've rounded up the best castles in Hamburg. Join us on a tour through history and cool buildings!

17 Top Castles in Hamburg

Schwerin Castle

Schwerin Castle looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale. It sits on its own island in Lake Schwerin, with towers and turrets reaching up to the sky. This castle is over 1000 years old and is famous for being one of the last true residence palaces in Germany.

People travel from all around just to see this stunning place.

schwerin-castle top castle near hamburg

Inside, you'll find rooms filled with beautiful things from long ago. The castle has been fixed up so that it looks much like it did when kings and queens walked its halls. From grand halls to secret corners, there's something magical at every turn.

Taking a day trip to visit Schwerin Castle is like stepping into history – a must-do for anyone wanting to feel like royalty for a day!

Schloss Ahrensburg

Schloss Ahrensburg stands out with its perfect 16th-century shape and 17th-century inside pieces. It shines as a top example of Renaissance architecture in Schleswig-Holstein. The Schimmelmann family, once big names in Denmark and linked to the dark history of the slave trade, used to own this castle.

Now it's open for you to see since 1955.

You'll find Schloss Ahrensburg right in the village of Ahrensburg, not far from Hamburg. It's a favorite spot for travelers looking for a touch of history and beauty. You can walk through its rooms and feel like you've stepped back hundreds of years, without even leaving Germany!

Schloss Bergedorf

Bergedorf Castle stands unique as Hamburg's only surviving castle within the city limits. Step back into the 13th century with a visit to this beautiful medieval building. It's now a museum open to visitors and is famous for its well-preserved architecture from long ago.

You won't find any kings or queens living here today, but you can walk through history in rooms where they once did.

schloss-bergedorf

Imagine walking on the same floors as knights and ladies from hundreds of years ago! Bergedorf Castle holds a special place in Hamburg’s heart, being an important part of its medieval past.

If you're curious about old castles, this one should be on your list. It tells stories from times when stone walls defended lands and royalty walked the halls, all while offering a glimpse into Hamburg's rich heritage.

Ludwigsluster Palace

Ludwigslust Palace is a stunning baroque castle often referred to as the 'Versailles of the North'. Situated in a spacious park with cascades, canals, and water jumps, it stands at the heart of the late Baroque town complex.

This impressive palace offers self-guided tours through its excellently restored chambers and extensive grounds. Located 40 km south of Schwerin, it provides visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the grandeur of this historical gem.

The expansive park surrounding Ludwigslust Palace makes for a picturesque setting where you can explore not only the magnificent architecture but also relax amidst nature's beauty.

Schloss Winsen

Schloss Winsen, located in Winsen (Luhe), is a captivating 14th-century castle that enchants visitors with its rich history and architectural beauty. Positioned near the serene river Luhe and the Elbe, this hidden gem offers guided tours for a deep dive into its centuries-old grandeur.

schloss-winsen

Considered one of the top 10 exquisite castles in the Hamburg region, Schloss Winsen stands as a testament to historical marvels waiting to be explored.

Venture moments at this architectural wonder are filled with breathtaking sights and stories dating back through time. It's an opportunity to witness history come alive amidst picturesque landscapes.

Wasserschloss Speicherstadt

Wasserschloss Speicherstadt, situated at the end of Holländischer Bridge in Hamburg, is a must-visit location known for its picturesque charm.

This historic area, encompassing not just warehouses but also museums and cafes, attracts numerous tourists due to its unique ambiance and rich cultural significance.

The buildings within the Speicherstadt rest on timber-pile foundations and oak logs, making it an architectural marvel and earning the distinction of being the largest warehouse district globally.

Speicherstadt photo

The allure of Wasserschloss Speicherstadt lies not only in its historical importance but also in offering visitors a blend of old-world charm with modern experiences.

As you stroll through this iconic district, you'll find yourself immersed in a captivating fusion of history and contemporary culture - a truly unforgettable experience that showcases Hamburg's vibrant heritage.

Schloss Reinbek

Schloss Reinbek stands as a prime example of Renaissance style in Schleswig-Holstein, harking back to the era of Duke Adolf I. Built on the grounds of a former monastery, it exudes historical significance and charm that captivate tourists.