Lichtenstein Castle is a fairytale castle, inside and out. Located in Baden-Württemberg, it is the perfect stop for everyone.
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You probably won’t find this on the average tour package through Germany. And Lichtenstein Castle is not one of those commonly mentioned must-sees. But I guarantee that this is one attraction you won’t regret stepping off the beaten path for.
It’s not nearly as famous as Neuschwanstein, undisputably THE fairytale castle, Heidelberg Castle or the Residenz in Munich. It also doesn’t have a claim to fame like Burghausen Castle, the longest in all of Europe. But this is always what I consider part of what makes it so charming.
Without further ado, here are 7 things about Lichtenstein Castle that will make you want to visit this fairytale castle:
#1. Lichtenstein Castle is Known by more than 1 Name
The people of Baden-Württemberg are very proud of their small castle, so much so that they have given it more than one nickname. The locals refer to Lichtenstein Castle as Neuschwanstein’s Little Brother, after Neuschwanstein Castle, the most famous castle in all of Germany.
The other nickname given to the beloved castle is the Fairytale Castle of Baden-Württemberg. It is another reference to Neuschwanstein which was the inspiration for the Disney castle.
Related Reading: Top 20 Best Castles in Germany to Visit
#2. It’s off the Tourist Track
This is one of my favourite reasons for visiting Lichtenstein Castle, the lack of tourists. If you have visited any of the major castle attractions in Germany, you’ll know that they can get really overcrowded. Lichtenstein Castle is off the beaten track and lesser-known, so you won’t have to contend with too many tourists.
There is a downside to this though as the normal 30-day tour is only available in German.
Travel tip: English-speaking guests can ask a handout in English on the tour. It may also be possible to arrange a tour in English or French. However, it’s only available for groups. Arrangements must be made ahead of time.
Despite it not being a stop for most visitors to Germany, it’s popular with German tourists eager to see the castle and the fantastic views. I loved Lichtenstein Castle.
View walking up to the castle
#3. Lichtenstein isn’t as old as other Castles
You can consider Lichtenstein Castle somewhat of a fledgling as it was built between 1840-1842. The castle may be young but the grounds are much older and have a richer history.
The original castle dates back to 1200 but was destroyed twice before it fell into ruins.
When it was finally reconstructed for the final time, it was made to look like a medieval knight’s castle, which makes it look much older than it is.
Related Reading: Heidelberg Castle in Germany: Everything You Need To Know
#4. It is Smaller than the Rest
Don’t expect anything as big as Neuschwanstein or Hohenzollern. It is, in my opinion, one of the smallest castles I have visited in Germany. But don’t let this misle you into thinking it isn’t still impressive, as they say, good things come in small packages. Or something like that right?
One of the things I loved most was the vast views of the Echaz Valley and Swabian Alps. And when you consider that it was only built as a hunting castle, similar to King Ludwig II’s Schachenhaus, it does start to seem rather large.
I’ve never thought of a castle as cozy but that’s the feeling I had as I toured inside – well except for all the antique rather uncomfortable looking furniture.
#5. It’s based on a Novel “Lichtenstein”
How many castles have been inspired by a book? This is one of them, the 1826 novel Lichtenstein by Wilhelm Hauff.
I haven’t read the book yet, but it’s on my reading list. I’m curious to find out how a book inspired this Neo-Gothic structure.
#6. Its Name is Self Explanatory
No real secret here if you speak German. Lichtenstein is German for light coloured stone on which the castle is built on.
Clearly, German practicality has been around for at least a couple of centuries.
#7. Lichtenstein Castle is the Perfect Day trip from Stuttgart
It is just an hour’s drive from Stuttgart and I highly recommend a day trip if you’re in Stuttgart.
The drive is a great one with many small villages on the way through the beautiful Swabian Alps. If your a castle buff like me, this one is worth a visit. If you’re looking to add to this wonderful day trip check you can also visit the Easter Egg Museum in Sonnenbühl and Bear Cave a Fog Cave which are 2 show caves. I love a good day trip and am always looking for new trip ideas.
Know Before You Go To Lichtenstein Castle
- Lichtenstein Castle is about an hour away from Stuttgart and easy to reach via public transport
- You can find more information about Schloss Lichtenstein on their homepage.
- See more places to visit in Germany.