Hohenzollern Castle
A majestic 19th-century fairytale castle perched atop a mountain, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Prussian royal history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Hohenzollern Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic 19th-century fairytale castle perched atop a mountain, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Prussian royal history.
"It feels like the original Lord and Lady might walk down the hall any minute."
🎯 Book Online to Save Time
Purchase tickets in advance online to skip the ticket line and secure your entry.
🚌 Shuttle Bus is Your Friend
Take the shuttle bus up the mountain for an easier ascent; consider walking down for scenic views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Royal Crown Jewels
Treasury
Marvel at the opulent Prussian king's crown and other priceless artifacts from the Hohenzollern family's rich history.

Fairytale Architecture
Exterior and Courtyards
Admire the majestic 19th-century architecture that evokes a true fairytale ambiance, reminiscent of stories and dreams.
Panoramic Swabian Alb Views
Castle Ramparts
Soak in breathtaking, expansive views of the rolling hills and forests of the Swabian Alb from the castle's vantage points.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets & Shuttle in Advance
Dress for the Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Online to Save Time
Purchase tickets in advance online to skip the ticket line and secure your entry.
🚌 Shuttle Bus is Your Friend
Take the shuttle bus up the mountain for an easier ascent; consider walking down for scenic views.
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
It's often chilly and windy at the top, so bring a jacket or sweatshirt, even on warm days.
📱 Download the Castle App
The app provides valuable information, especially if English displays are limited.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Online to Save Time
Purchase tickets in advance online to skip the ticket line and secure your entry.
🚌 Shuttle Bus is Your Friend
Take the shuttle bus up the mountain for an easier ascent; consider walking down for scenic views.
🧥 Pack Warm Layers
It's often chilly and windy at the top, so bring a jacket or sweatshirt, even on warm days.
📱 Download the Castle App
The app provides valuable information, especially if English displays are limited.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 1.5-2 hours to explore the castle's interior and grounds thoroughly.
📸 Capture the Magic
The castle's majestic appearance and surrounding views are incredibly photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hohenzollern Castle for its breathtaking beauty, majestic architecture, and spectacular views. The knowledgeable guides and the historical significance, particularly the treasury, are major draws. While some find the interior a bit small, the overall well-maintained state and the fairytale ambiance make it a highly recommended destination.
"great place to spend the day. inside the castle is a picturesque restaurant with a local seasonal dishes.
dessert Strudel is a super big and delicious dessert, with the signature castle decoration.
the castle is on a mountain, be prepared for it to be a bit more chilly and possibly windy at the top. we were not prepared, but the great sweatshirts from the brand store saved us 👌🏻"
Katarina Chernushich
"The castle is amazing. You're going to want a good couple hours to see everything. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions. It feels like the original Lord and Lady might walk down the hall any minute. The food at the restaurant inside the main hall is really good too. And the views are spectacular!"
Taylor Hutchason
"Beautiful and extremely beautiful! One of the most beautiful and well maintained castle ! It’s good that it’s in private hands - it’s seen - as well maintained and beautiful. Clean, elegant and beautiful. You may say that it’s kind small but it’s well deserved to be seen - outside and inside. It’s sitting on a beautiful green hill with views around which are very nice. 2 parkings and place for campers. It’s taking roughly 1-2h to visit the castle and around 2h to hike around to see all the sights around."
Kamil NOWAK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Stuttgart, you can drive to the castle parking lots (around 1 hour). Alternatively, take a train to Hechingen station and then a bus or taxi to the castle. Many visitors opt for the shuttle bus from the parking area up to the castle entrance.
Yes, there are parking lots available at the base of the mountain. From there, you can take a shuttle bus or walk up to the castle. Parking and shuttle services are often included with your ticket.
Yes, you can reach Hohenzollern Castle via public transport. Take a train to Hechingen and then a local bus or taxi. Some Reddit users have successfully navigated this route for day trips.
The most convenient way is to use the shuttle bus service from the parking area. For those who enjoy a hike, walking up offers scenic views, and many recommend walking down after your visit.
While the castle grounds are extensive, the shuttle bus helps with the initial ascent. Inside the castle, some areas may have stairs. It's advisable to check with the castle directly for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online in advance through the official Hohenzollern Castle website, which is highly recommended to avoid queues. Tickets are also available at the castle entrance.
Standard tickets typically include access to the castle grounds and the treasury. Guided tours of the interior rooms may require a separate ticket or be part of a package.
Yes, there are usually different ticket options, including basic admission and guided tour packages that allow access to more interior rooms. Check the official website for current offerings.
Opening hours vary seasonally, but the castle is generally open daily. It's best to check the official Hohenzollern Castle website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Absolutely! Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides and the feeling of stepping back in time. The treasury with the Prussian crown is a major highlight.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas and courtyards. However, there may be restrictions on photography inside certain rooms or the treasury. Always check for signage.
The exterior views from various angles, especially as you approach the castle, are stunning. The ramparts offer panoramic vistas, and the courtyards provide a sense of grandeur.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites like Hohenzollern Castle to protect the monument and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the castle's majestic appearance. Early mornings can also be magical, especially if there's fog in the valleys.
While specific photography tours might not be widely advertised, the castle's beauty makes it a dream for photographers. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for fewer people in your shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located inside the castle's main hall, offering local seasonal dishes. Visitors have praised the food, especially the strudel dessert.
The restaurant serves traditional Swabian and German cuisine. Expect hearty meals and delicious desserts, with some reviewers highlighting the generous portion sizes.
While the castle restaurant is convenient, there are also dining options in the nearby town of Hechingen if you prefer to explore local eateries before or after your visit.
Picnicking is generally not permitted within the castle's interior or designated dining areas. It's best to enjoy the food offered at the castle restaurant or in the surrounding park areas if allowed.
The strudel dessert is frequently mentioned as a must-try, often described as super big and delicious, with a signature castle decoration.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include utilizing the shuttle bus for an easier ascent and ensuring everyone has warm clothing, as the mountaintop can be windy. The castle restaurant offers kid-friendly options, and the overall experience is often described as fun and fascinating for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
The most budget-friendly approach to reaching the castle is by public transport to Hechingen, followed by a bus or taxi. Opting to walk down the mountain after your visit instead of taking the shuttle back can also save a small amount. Focus on enjoying the exterior views and the general atmosphere if you're on a tight budget, as the visual impact is immense even without a full interior tour.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or weekdays to avoid crowds. Early mornings can offer atmospheric fog, while late afternoons provide warm, flattering light. While interior photography might be restricted, the exterior and surrounding landscapes offer endless opportunities to capture the castle's majesty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Hohenzollern Castle
The castle has seen multiple iterations, with the first fortress dating back to around 1000 AD. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, with the second castle being largely destroyed by the 17th century. The third and current castle was commissioned by King Frederick William IV of Prussia, who envisioned it as a grand monument to his family's heritage. It was designed by architect Friedrich August Stüler, who also worked on other significant Prussian landmarks.
Today, Hohenzollern Castle is privately owned by the two branches of the Hohenzollern family and is a major tourist attraction, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. It houses an impressive art collection, including valuable paintings and silverware, as well as the crown jewels of the Prussian kings. The castle's strategic hilltop location offers not only defensive advantages but also spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Swabian Alb landscape.
Experiencing Hohenzollern Castle: A Visitor's Guide
Once inside, the castle's interior is just as impressive as its exterior. Guided tours are highly recommended, as the guides are noted for their knowledge and ability to bring the castle's history to life. You'll explore various rooms, learn about the Hohenzollern dynasty, and marvel at the art collections. The treasury, housing the Prussian crown jewels, is a particular highlight that shouldn't be missed.
Beyond the guided tours, take time to explore the castle courtyards and ramparts. The views over the Swabian Alb are spectacular and offer fantastic photo opportunities. The castle also features a restaurant serving local cuisine, making it a perfect destination for a full day trip. Remember to dress in layers, as the mountaintop can be cooler than expected.
Hohenzollern Castle in Different Seasons
Autumn brings a beautiful display of fall colors to the Swabian Alb, creating a picturesque backdrop for the castle. The cooler temperatures are perfect for walking and exploring without the summer heat.
Winter transforms Hohenzollern Castle into a truly magical sight, especially when dusted with snow. It evokes a strong fairytale ambiance, making it a popular spot for Christmas-themed visits and photography. The crisp winter air adds to the dramatic atmosphere of this historic fortress.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit