The Castle Road (Burgenstraße in German), otherwise know as the Castle Route, is one of the most captivating themed routes in Germany and makes a great riding holiday. Here is all you need to know to plan an unforgettable ride exploring the history, culture, and architecture of traditional Germany.

Mannheim Castle on Germany’s Castle Road

Planning Your Ride on the German Castle Road

The Castle Road stretches from east to west for over 1,200 km (745 miles), from the German city of Mannheim to the scenic Czech city of Prague, but this guide will be focussing on the section between Mannheim and Bayreuth. If you wanted to ride the whole route

Sights

With so much to see on the Castle Road, it is recommended to pick just a few castles that you want to explore in depth. Enjoy the view of the other castles from afar.

Mannheim Palace – with its famous facade with over 400 metres ranks among the biggest castles in Europe. It forms an impressive start for a journey along the castle road.
Heidelberg Castle: The world famous ruin of Heidelberg Palace rises imposingly above the Old Town. It served as the residence for the Palatine Electors for more than 400 yeas
Castle Hotel Colmberg – Stay in a 1000-year-old castle and enjoy sweeping views of the Franconian countryside
Rothenburg ob der Tauber – The best-preserved medieval town in Germany.
Bamberg: With a UNESCO old quarter and robust beer scene, the castle is just of the attractions of the city.
Castle of Neuenstein: Home to the aristocratic line of Hohenlohe-Neuenstein, the site has a museum and beautifully decorated rooms like is its original medieval kitchen. In the summer, there is a concert series on the premise.
Imperial Castle of Nuremberg – Considered one of Europe’s most formidable medieval fortifications.
New and Old Palace of Bayreuth: Margrave Georg Wilhelm’s wife Wilhelmine is responsible for the stunning Japanese Cabinet and the Chinese Mirror Cabinet. Outside, visitors can explore the court gardens. The town is also famous for its annual Richard Wagner Festival.

Veste Coburg Citadel – This castle from 1056 was once the refuge of Martin Luther took refuge and today showcases Luther room, bear enclosures (yes, really) and museum.
Hornberg Castle
Guttenberg Castle
Ehrenburg Castle
Bayreuth Castle
Additionally, several towns and villages along the way are worth exploring as well. The most charming among these are , Nuremberg, Bamberg, Coburg, Kronach, Kulmbach and Bayreuth.

Heidelberg Castle Germany

Looking for guided and self-guided tours of Germany? Our sister site, Yellow Yeti Travel, offers a range of options, including the Ring Road.

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Germany’s Castle Road

Germany’s Castle Road

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