wartburg castle tours

Wartburg Castle: The Complete Guide

Wartburg Castle is perched on a steep hill overlooking the town of Eisenach in the state of Thuringia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the oldest and best-preserved Romanesque castles in Germany , as well as the hideout of German church reformer, Martin Luther. Step back in time to discover the unique story behind this historic German castle, and learn how to visit it yourself.

History of Wartburg Castle

The foundation for Wartburg Castle was laid in 1067, along with a larger sister castle known as Neuenburg. Additions were made over the years, and the castle began exhibiting an eclectic mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Historicism. By 1211, Wartburg was one of the most important princes' courts in the German Reich. The castle became the muse of poets like Walther von der Vogelweide, and the setting for the fabled Sängerkrieg (minstrel contest) in 1207. The story of this epic contest inspired Richard Wagner's opera "Tannhäuser."

St. Elisabeth of Hungary lived in Wartburg from 1211 to 1228, during her betrothal and marriage to Louis IV, though perhaps the castle's most famous guest was Martin Luther. From May 1521 to March 1522, Luther hid at the castle after Pope Leo X had excommunicated him. Under the name Junker Jörg, he translated the New Testament from Ancient Greek into German, making the Bible accessible to the people. The castle is still a site of pilgrimage for many of his followers.

However, the castle's singular history did not protect it from neglect and disrepair. During the Thirty Years' War, the whole region suffered and the castle slowly fell apart. However, the site was slowly brought back to its original glory over time. In 1817, the first Wartburgfest was held here, with students and Burschenschaften (fraternities) celebrating German victory over Napoleon. After it was no longer occupied by royal families, the Wartburg Stiftung (Wartburg Foundation) was created in 1922 to maintain the castle. Through World War II and Soviet occupation, division of the country and  German Democratic Republic rule , the castle remained. Extensive reconstruction took place in the 1950s, and in 1967, the castle was the site of GDR's national jubilee. It has also hosted celebrations for Martin Luther's 500th birthday and the 150th anniversary of the Wartburg Festival.

The awesome history of Wartburg Castle was further honored with its inclusion in 1999 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the first German castle to earn this designation.

What to See at Wartburg Castle

The castle is the most-visited tourist attraction in Thuringia after Weimar . To avoid crowds, especially in the summer, travel to the castle in the morning or late afternoon on a weekday.

You must book a guided tour to visit Wartburg Castle's lavish interiors (English tours also available). Dating back to the 19th century, they are impressive, featuring tapestries, golden mosaics, medieval musical instruments, and precious silverware on display. The residential quarters expand over three floors and are considered the best preserved example of late Romanesque profane architecture north of the Alps. The ornate decoration of the Festsaal (Festival Hall) is a showstopper, with superb acoustics orchestrated by Franz Liszt, former Director of Music of the Court Ensemble in Weimar. The highlight of the tour, though, is the sparsely furnished room of Martin Luther. Look for the ink spot on the wall; it is said that it was left by Luther after he threw an inkwell at the devil.

Touring the grounds is free, and allows visitors to admire the original, 12th-century castle structures, as well as the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Eagles, the Emperor’s symbolic animal, bedeck numerous buildings. The site also contains a museum covering more than 900 years of German history.

Numerous events take place at the castle throughout the year, including chamber music performances, religious services in the Castle Chapel, Christmas concerts, and a medieval Christmas market. The Hunters' Room is not only an official branch of the Eisenach Registry Office, it is also a popular venue for weddings and events.

The Wartburg Hotel is the perfect place to rest after exploring the castle, either for the night or to enjoy a meal at its elegant restaurant .

How to Visit Wartburg Castle

Eisenach is located 120 miles northeast of Frankfurt . Towering over Wartburgallee street in the southwestern corner of town, Wartburg Castle is easy to find. It is only accessible via a medieval drawbridge.

• Drive to Wartburg Castle. If arriving by car, follow the street signs for Wartburg that take travelers from the A4 Autobahn off at the "Eisenach-Ost" exit. Drive through the town onto Wartburgallee and follow the winding road off the B19 up to the castle. There is unlimited parking for 5 euros.
• Take public transit. Visitors can reach Wartburg by city bus number 3 (Luthershuttle), which travels from Eisenach's city center all the way up to the castle. The bus line also stops at the Hauptbahnhof (main train station).
• Walk or bike. Wartburg is located in Thuringia Forest, and there are several pleasant paths up to the castle, like the Hercules-Wartburg Cycle Route and Rennsteig trail. The best option is the Luther trail, which runs up Schlossberg hill and ends at the Wartburg Castle donkey station. The walk is about 35 to 45 minutes.
• Take a donkey ride. One of the beloved traditions associated with Wartburg Castle is the children's donkey ride . The 20-minute ride is available during the summer, and starts near the parking lot.

The castle is open every day of the year. Tickets for the tour cost 12 euros for adults, 8 euros for students, and 5 euros for children ages 6–14. Thuringia Card holders and children 5 and under can visit for free.

What to Do Near Wartburg Castle

Ltherhaus Eisenach is the oldest half-timbered house in Thurginia, and has a museum dedicated to Martin Luther. Fans of Johann Sebastian Bach will also be delighted to find Bachhaus Eisenach , a museum dedicated to the famous Eisenach composer.

Thuringian Forest (Thüringer Wald) is one of the most popular destinations in the region. Covering 4,700 square kilometers in fairytale-like woodlands, German greats such as Bach and Fritz Reuter exulted on its beauty. Today's visitors can hike most of the park, including the Rennsteig trail, which dates back to the 9th century and once divided the states of Thuringia and Franconia. Another popular hiking spot is through the dramatic yet kid-friendly Dragon Gorge (Drachenschlucht).

Travel East Germany

The Best UNESCO Sites in Germany

15 Best Castles and Palaces in Germany

Regensburg: Planning Your Trip

Guide to Weimar

The Top 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France

Best Underrated Cities in Germany

Lübeck: Planning Your Trip

The Most Beautiful Castles in Italy

Visiting Coburg Castle in Germany

The Essential Guide to Alsace, France: What to See & Do

The Top 11 Things to Do in Stuttgart, Germany

Berlin's Mitte Neighborhood: The Complete Guide

Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt: The Complete Guide

Prague: Planning Your Trip

Neuschwanstein Castle Travel Guide

About the author:

After 4-1/2 years of covering European travel topics for About.com, Durant and Cheryl Imboden co-founded Europe for Visitors (now including Germany for Visitors) in 2001. The site has earned "Best of the Web" honors from Forbes and The Washington Post .

For more information, see About Europe for Visitors , press clippings , and reader testimonials .

Top photo: Wartburg Stiftung Eisenach.

•   Monday, April 29, 2024
• Shop Our Products

• Travel to Germany

Wartburg Castle Tour- Wartburg Castle in Eisenach Germany

The Venn Diagram of reader recommendations and travel plans overlapped neatly this year, meaning I could put the Wartburg Castle in Eisenach on the itinerary. And I’m so glad. The Wartburg Castle Tour  takes you on a journey through history from the 11 th century to the end of the 19 th .  There are rough and ready rooms for knights, as well beautiful rooms decorated with carvings and golden mosaics. You’ll see the room where Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German, and you’ll visit a room where a legendary musical competition took place. And it all comes with a spectacular view!

And naturally, a café…. Because after wandering around a castle in Germany, you might want a slice of cake.

It’s easy to see why this amazing Burg was the first German castle to receive UNESCO Heritage status . It’s well worth the journey up the hill.

Where is the Wartburg Castle?

A name like The Wartburg in Eisenach sort of sounds like it belongs in Tolkien’s Middle Earth, but the imposing Wartburg sits 400 meters above Eisenach in the German state of Thuringia. To get up to the castle, you first drive thought town. Parking is about halfway up the hill.

From the parking lot, you hike the rest of the way. It’s not a difficult hike, but, if because of age or issues walking, an uphill climb isn’t for you, there is a shuttle bus. The bus meets you in front of the building at the entrance to the parking area. This is also where you pay for parking on the way out. The shuttle (a large van) comes regularly (in June 2023, the cost was 2,50) and drops you in the turnaround at the gate.

Note- if you are traveling in a wheelchair, there is a shuttle that can accommodate you, please reach out to Visitors Services in advance ( [email protected] ). The entrance is cobblestoned, but the courtyard of the castle is smoother, so visiting that part of the castle is do-able. Unfortunately, the castle tour is not wheelchair accessible. There are spiral staircases and no elevators. Because the Burg is a listed building, this probably won’t change.

Walking through Wartburg Castle History

The Wartburg Castle history touches so much of Germany’s history , and the castle tour takes you through it in chronological order (mostly).

The strategically located Wartburg is a BURG, not a Schloss , meaning it is a defensible castle, and not a fancy palace founded by Count Ludwig der Springer in 1067 because he liked the location. The word “Warte” means observation point… so… Wartburg is the castle/fortress on the observation point. (And it really is an amazing view.)

His son, Landgrave Ludwig II added a stone buildings, and his grandson Ludwig III added another level. With each addition, the strength and power of the family grew until they controlled Thuringia, Hesse and Saxony. The tour meets in a room filled with stonework and carvings… but the real tour starts in the Rittersaal (Knight’s Hall). A Romanesque era chamber with vaulted ceilings, a huge fireplace and decorated columns (and three latrine bays!).

From there you pass through the dining hall (the beams date to the 11 hundreds!)

The Holy Elizabeth

Gold mosaic covers the walls of the room belonging to the Holy Elizabeth , wife to Ludwig IV. Although the shape matches the Knight’s Hall, the glitz of the glittering gold mosaic make the “ Fräulein Elisabeth Camin Stuben ” or Elizabeth’s Bower, feel rich and luxurious. Scenes from the life of Elizabeth of Hungary, wife of Ludwig IV cover the walls interspersed with flowers and ornamental patterns.

Elizabeth, daughter of Andrew II,  King of Hungary, came from an incredibly religious and pious family (there are quite a few Saints and Nuns in her family tree). Engaged to Ludwig as an infant, she came to live at the Wartburg at age 4, but she never felt comfortable with the wealth. Her heart went out to the poor, and she continually gave away her possessions.

In this famous scene, where Elizabeth removes her crown because she felt unworthy of wearing a crown when, as she said, Jesus wore one of thorns.

When Elizabeth’s husband, Ludwig IV died on the way to the Crusades in 1227. Elizabeth’s brother-in-law threw her, and her children, out of the Wartburg. According to legend, (and one of the mosaic images) she wandered the streets, hungry and impoverished. Finally, her uncle, the Bishop of Bamberg intervened, and she lived out her days in a Marburg monastery, working at the hospital she had donated. She died at age 24, and was canonized 4 years later in 1235. St. Elizabeth, die Heilige Elizabeth’s birthday is celebrated on July 7th. A special day on the Wartburg.

What makes this chapel unusual is that it’s both Catholic AND Protestant, with services even today dedicated to the Holy Elizabeth and to Martin Luther.

The columns and baptismal font date back to the 1300s.

Hall of Minstrels

One of my favorite stops was the Hall of Minstrels… because of the story.

In the early 13th century, Landgrave Herman I, the Patron of Poets (and brother of Ludwig III), made the Wartburg a center of arts and music , equal to the Babenberger dynasty in Vienna. Minstrels came from far and wide to play and entertain the court with their songs. In 1206, a fabulous event, the Fürstenlob or Praise of Princes invited 6 famous Minstrels to put forth their best work before the Count and Countess of Thuringia. The winner would be crowned most eloquent the loser would be put to death. ( Bit harsh… but sounds a little like those song contests we see on TV today ).

Five of the Minstrels or Minnesänger sang the praises of the Count and Countess… but Heinrich von Ofterdingen, the best of them all, got himself into trouble because he sang the praises to the Duke of Austria.

Fortunately, his silver tongue and the graciousness of Herman I saved him. They set up a second contest to take place in exactly one year.  In steps a Hungarian sorcerer and poet, Klingsor, who somehow smooths things over.

And this is where things get a little fuzzy. Did it actually happen? 

The history gets intertwined with legend. In the late 1700s, the story pops up again. First in Medieval history books, then literature, it even appears in Grimm’s Deutsche Sagen (a book of short stories and summaries of historical legends… this came after the Fairy Tale book) .. and then in steps Wagner, who writes the opera, Tannhäuser based on the legendary event.

The Festsaal or Banquet Hall

Martin Luther and the Wartburg Castle

1521 (4 years after he nailed the 95 Thesis to the church door in Wittenberg ), he found himself in serious trouble. Not only had Pope Leo X excommunicated him (barred him from the church), the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V declared him at outlaw after the Diet of Worms, when Luther refused to recant. He was at serious risk of being imprisoned or exiled.

Frederick der Weise offered protective custody. On May 4, 1521, Luther was “kidnapped” in the Thuringian forest.. and taken to the Wartburg. There he grew out his hair to take on the appearance of a long-haired Prussian Junker (Prussian landowner). Then, with the encouragement of friends and supporters, he translated the New Testament of the Bible into German.

This was no ordinary achievement. For the first time, the Bible was written in the language of the people. Ten months later, Luther left the Wartburg, and a few months later, Gutenberg published the work.

1541 edition of the Luther Bible

What about the Ink Spot??

There is a famous story about Luther throwing his inkwell against the wall of his cell. Did he do it because he was frustrated about being locked up? Or did he throw it to chase the devil? That’s unclear… The spot, although used in lots of marketing, is no longer there. Some say that tourists kept scraping off pieces as a souvenir, and others say it was painted over years ago. Either way… no spot.

But there is a stuffed monkey.

( I never did find out why… except that the cell was most likely used as storage after Luther moved out. That might explain the whale vertebrae/footstool)

What came next?

The Wartburg lost much of its importance after Luther left, and slowly the buildings began to decay. In 1777 Johann Wolfgang von Goethe “discovered” the Wartburg, and set out to make it museum. Still, nothing much was done for fifty years. The students used it for their meeting in 1817, which may have reawakened interest. By 1850, with the consent of Grand Duke Carl Alexander of Saxe-Weimar-Einsenach, work was underway to restore the Burg to its former glory. In 1918, Germany became a Republic, and upkeep of the Wartburg fell out of the family’s hands. Since 1952, the government has maintained the Wartburg.

In 1999, the Wartburg in Eisenach earned UNESCO World Heritage status, the first German castle to receive the honor.

You can visit the Wartburg 365 days a year!

Wartburg Castle Tour

Wartburg Castle gets loads of visitors daily and it’s good to book your tour in advance. English tours are available (around 1PM), but if the time slot doesn’t fit into your schedule, you can take one in German and follow along in the handy tour pamphlet (you might miss some of the interesting color though).

It is NOT possible to wander through the castle without a tour guide. You can stay in the courtyard, enjoy the views and the pigeons, have a snack at the restaurant, but you will not get inside… not to the museum, not to the Luther room, just forget it. Book the tour. Cost is 12€ per person (kids under 6 are free!) and there are special prices for families etc. Tickets

When arriving, make sure you calculate enough time to get from the parking lot to the castle before your tour!

Click here for Tickets and Information about your visit.

Take a walk thought German History!

We LOVED the Tour!

2 thoughts on “ Wartburg Castle Tour- Wartburg Castle in Eisenach Germany ”

I loved it! After seeing the pictures (that Festsaal!!) I am making it a priority to see. Looks like you had a great time with your parents 🙂

We really did have fun. My mother loves history.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Posts

Friedenssaal and the peace of westphalia – münster germany, remembering the poesiealbum – a book of friendship and verse, francis daniel pastorius- the pennsylvania pilgrim, travel accessories for a trip to germany- what i take along.

Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information.

Share on social media

Unesco social media, wartburg castle.

• Description

Wartburg Castle blends superbly into its forest surroundings and is in many ways 'the ideal castle'. Although it has retained some original sections from the feudal period, the form it acquired during the 19th-century reconstitution gives a good idea of what this fortress might have been at the height of its military and seigneurial power. It was during his exile at Wartburg Castle that Martin Luther translated the New Testament into German.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

La Wartburg

La forteresse de Wartburg, superbement intégrée dans un paysage de forêt, est en quelque sorte le « château idéal ». Tout en comportant des parties d'origine, datant de la période féodale, sa silhouette établie lors des reconstitutions du XIX e siècle est une très bonne évocation de ce que pouvait être cette forteresse à l'époque de sa puissance militaire et seigneuriale. C'est pendant son séjour clandestin à la Wartburg que Martin Luther traduisit en allemand le Nouveau Testament.

قلعة الفارتبورغ

تُعتبر قلعة الفارتبورغ التي تندمج بطريقة رائعة في الغابة المحيطة بها شبيهة "بالقصر المثالي". فهي تشمل الأقسام الأصلية التي تعود إلى الحقبة الإقطاعية، إلا أن شكلها الحالي الذي تبلور خلال عملية إعادة الترميم في القرن التاسع عشر يعبّر بشكل كبير عمّا كانت عليه تلك القلعة في فترة عظمتها العسكرية والإقطاعية. وكان مارتن لوثر كينغ في خلال إقامته السرّية في وارتبورغ قد ترجم العهد الجديد (الأناجيل) إلى الألمانية.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

瓦尔特堡与周围的森林完美地融为一体，从许多方面来看，它都是一座“理想城堡”。尽管这里还保留着一些封建原始建筑，但19世纪重建后的形态则展示了这座城堡在军事和权力巅峰时的风采。马丁·路德正是流放在瓦尔特堡时，将《新约》翻译成了德文。

Fortaleza de Wartburgo

La fortaleza de Wartburgo, magníficamente integrada en el paisaje de bosques que la circundan, es en cierto modo el “castillo ideal”. Conserva algunas de sus elementos primigenios, que datan la época feudal. Su perfil actual es producto de las reconstituciones efectuadas en el siglo XIX y evoca lo que debió ser esta fortaleza en tiempos del apogeo del poderío militar de sus señores. Martín Lutero tradujo aquí el Nuevo Testamento del griego al alemán.

source: NFUAJ

Kasteel Wartburg

Kasteel Wartburg vermengt zich prachtig met zijn bosrijke omgeving en is in veel opzichten ‘het ideale kasteel’. Hoewel het een aantal originele onderdelen uit de feodale periode heeft behouden, geeft de vorm die het kreeg tijdens de reconstructie in de 19e eeuw een goed idee van hoe dit fort geweest moet zijn op het hoogtepunt van zijn militaire macht en die van zijn landheer. Het kasteel geldt ook als een krachtig symbool van de Duitse integratie en eenheid. Maarten Luther zat in ballingschap op de Wartburg, in die tijd vertaalde hij het Nieuwe Testament in het Duits.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

Wartburg Castle blends superbly into its forest surroundings and is in many ways "the ideal castle". Although it contains some sections of great antiquity, it acquired the current layout over the course of 19th-century reconstructions. This renewal of interest was justified by its symbolic nature for the German people, and today the castle continues to be a symbol of the nation's past and present. Its current state is a splendid example of what this fortress might have been at the peak of its military and seigneurial power.

Wartburg Castle is perched at a height of some 400 m above the delightful countryside, south of the city of Eisenach in Thuringia in central Germany. Its varied aspect and the sense of harmony it evokes are only two of its attractions for visitors. What makes Wartburg Castle such a magnet for memory, tradition, and pilgrimage is that it stands as a monument to the cultural history of Germany, Europe, and beyond.

Lutherans the world over know of the castle as the very place where Martin Luther made his translation of the Bible. The veneration of Saint Elizabeth, which extends far beyond the frontiers of Germany, includes Wartburg Castle where she lived and worked. The patronage of Hermann I, Landgrave of Thuringia, occupies an extraordinary place in the creation of a national literary tradition. In poetry and in legends, Wartburg Castle, the medieval Court of the Muses, bears an undying reputation through the names of Walther von der Vogelweide and Wolfram von Eschenbach. While these authors represented the first steps in German literature, and Martin Luther's translation of the New Testament marked the creation of a unified and accessible written German language, Wartburg Castle is also associated with the beginnings of a bourgeois and democratic nation, through the content and effects of the Wartburg festival of German students' associations. From the very earliest days of its existence, this fortress of the Landgraves of Thuringia has repeatedly acted as a venue for and witness of historic events and activities worthy of renown as a monument to national and world history.

The artistic and architectural importance of the palace, built in the second half of the 12th century, is no less significant. In execution and ornamentation, it is unrivalled and represents one of the best-preserved secular constructions from the late Norman period to be found on German soil. Thanks to this broad range of religious content and historic data, and because of its significance in the history of the arts, Wartburg Castle attracts around half a million visitors every year, from all over the world.

Criterion (iii): The Wartburg Castle is an outstanding monument of the feudal period in central Europe.

Criterion (vi): The Wartburg Castle is rich in cultural associations, most notably its role as the place of exile of Martin Luther, who composed his German translation of the New Testament there. It is also a powerful symbol of German integration and unity.

The Wartburg Castle includes all elements necessary to express the Outstanding Universal Value of a venue for and witness of historic events. It is of adequate size to ensure the features and processes, which convey the significance of the property.

Authenticity

The stone-built palace in its lower sections is an important example of civilian architecture of the Norman period. The same can be said of the masonry sections of the rampart and the South Tower. The remainder of the property is a reconstruction carried out under the influence of romantic ideas together, in this particular case, with an attempt to resurrect forms that would bear witness to the presence of the great historical personages who once inhabited the castle (St Elizabeth, Luther, etc) and offer an illustration of a political idea in search of national unity. The conditions of authenticity may be defined here in the light of two principles: archaeological authenticity found mainly in the palace, and fortifications; and symbolic authenticity, where the form matters less than the idea it represents. This is not simply a building, but architectural work of art, one of great quality, expressive of a true idea.

Protection and management requirements

The Wartburg Castle is covered by protective legislation at regional (State of Thuringia) and municipal levels. The listed monument encompasses the entire hill on which the castle is built. The protected area of Wartburg is part of the planning zone of Eisenach, which restricts all forms of development around the monument. Much of the wooded hillside below the castle is designated as a nature protection area (NSG) and fulfils the function as a buffer zone for the property.

The property is owned by the Wartburg Foundation of Eisenach, established in 1992. The Foundation is a legal entity under civil law, with its headquarters in Eisenach. The property is administered by the Stiftungsrat der Wartburg-Stiftung (Board of Directors of the Wartburg Foundation) in conjunction with the Thuringian Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture (Office for the Protection of Historic Monuments of the State of Thuringia).

Funding is provided by the following sources: Bundesministerium des Inneren (Federal Ministry of the Interior), Thüringer Ministerium für Bildung, Wissenschaft und Kultur (Thuringian Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture), Thüringisches Landesamt für Denkmalpflege und Archäologie (Office of the State of Thuringia for the Preservation of Historic Monuments and Archaeology), and the Foundation's own funds.

The above bodies are also responsible for the maintenance and preservation of the property, in conjunction with the Bauhütte der Wartburg team. A management plan describing the management system, the management requirements, and visitor management has been set up. 

• Deutschland media
• Instagram page
• Facebook page
• Würzburg Residence (in German only)
• UNESCO Commission of Germany
• Wartburg (Deutsche UNESCO-Kommission)(german only)

Wartburg Castle

Top ways to experience Wartburg Castle and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

Wartburg Castle - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.07 km) Romantik Hotel auf der Wartburg
• (0.71 km) Hotel Haus Hainstein Eisenach
• (0.96 km) Boutiquehotel Villa Anna
• (0.55 km) Villa Liliengrund - 2 room apartment
• (0.56 km) Villa Liliengrund - 3 room apartment
• (0.07 km) Landgrafenstube
• (0.06 km) Burgcafe Gadem
• (1.60 km) Kartoffelhaus Eisenach
• (1.18 km) Restaurant Heimat
• (1.32 km) Zucker & Zimt Café-Restaurant
• (0.00 km) Dragon Fountain
• (0.83 km) Drachenschlucht / Landgrafenschlucht
• (0.41 km) Metilstein
• (1.25 km) Bachhaus
• (1.23 km) Georgenkirche

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Wartburg castle tours.

• Things to do

I only need accommodations for part of my trip

Visit Wartburg Castle

The Wartburg Castle is an impressive hilltop citadel overlooking the quaint town of Eisenach. Dating back to the Middle Ages, the structure is among the most popular sights in the region. Get a detailed understanding of the magnificent castle’s architecture and history on a tour of its buildings with an audio guide in English.

Enter via the immense portal and make your way through the castle to consider its immense history. This is the place where Martin Luther hid from the Inquisition in the early 16th century. Note that after the Holy Roman Emperor sentenced him to death, Luther grew a beard and changed his name to Squire George. Locate Luther’s study, where he meditated on the Bible.

Hear how St. Elizabeth, princess of Hungary, owned the castle in the 1200s. She was married at 14 and widowed six years later, having given birth to four children. Find out about the fascinating life of this saint, who devoted her life to the poor and supposedly performed miracles.

Watch your kids embark on a donkey ride up the hill to reach the castle in summer. Enter the Troubadours’ Hall and admire its arches and columns. Listen to stories of the famous poetry-reading competition that took place here for the pleasure of Count Hermann I of Thuringia. It is said the count wanted to execute the loser. Visit the impressive three-story Residence of the Counts palace in the complex.

Reach the intriguing battlements and look out at the stunning panorama before you. Snap photos of the forest and the town spread out at the base of the hill.

The castle complex opens daily from morning until evening and there is an entrance fee.

Wartburg Castle stands on a precipice in the southwestern outskirts of Eisenach. Drive to the parking lot at the foot of the hill and ride the shuttle to the top for a small fee. Make sure to see nearby sights, including the Reuter Wagner Museum, the Bachhaus Eisenach and the Lutherhaus Eisenach.

Reviews of Wartburg Castle

5/5 - excellent.

Don’t forget to bring water with you!Stairs!

Popular places to visit

• Predigerkirche

Step inside this building to find out about the rich tapestry of history and inspect the largest collection of medieval carvings in the region of Thuringia.

Follow in the footsteps of a Protestant icon and see the medieval artifacts in one of the region’s oldest surviving half-timbered houses.

Discover the story of one of the world’s most famous composers at this interactive musical museum that has state-of-the-art facilities.

• St. George's Church

Find out about the enthralling past of a church that welcomed some of the major figures in German ecclesiastical history.

• Drachenschlucht

You can take time to visit Drachenschlucht during your travels to Eisenach. Amble around the area's gardens or experience its museums.

• Nikolai Church Eisenach

Explore the three glorious naves of the last Roman building in the region and pass through the only surviving town gate.

Best Lodging Options Near Wartburg Castle

Check availability on hotels close to wartburg castle.

• Vacations and getaways similar to Wartburg Castle
• Other Hotels near Wartburg Castle, Eisenach
• Hotels near popular Eisenach Attractions
• More Hotel Options in Wartburg Castle
• Expedia's Latest Trends
• Reuter-Wagner Museum
• Landestheater Eisenach
• Reuter Wagner Museum Eisenach
• Thuringian Forest
• Hainich National Park
• Schloss Altenstein
• Merkers Adventure Mine
• Pure enjoyment of nature on the Werra Valley Cycle Path
• Kulturhotel Kaiserhof
• Hotel Herzog Georg
• Cozy half-timbered house in the low mountain range of Hesse Thuringia
• Living directly on the edge of the forest in Bad Tabarz in the Spindler Villa
• AHORN Berghotel Friedrichroda
• New holiday home with indoor pool in the beautiful Thuringian Forest on the Rennsteig
• Whole villa on a large garden plot at the park
• H+ Hotel & SPA Friedrichroda
• Modern bungalow with fireplace in a green location from 57 euros per day
• Cottage directly at the forest, completely fenced, on 2000 square meters, holiday with dog
• Cozy holiday home on the edge of the forest - wonderfully quiet on the Rennsteig
• Hotels near Hainich National Park
• Hotels near Drachenschlucht
• Hotels near Schloss Altenstein
• Hotels near SOLE WORLD Bad Salzungen
• Hotels near Karlsplatz
• Hotels near Lutherhaus
• Hotels near Creuzburg Castle
• Hotels near St. George's Church
• Hotels near Baumkronenpfad
• Hotels near Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Nature Park
• Hotels near Wittenberg Luther House Eisenach
• Hotels near Thuringian Forest Nature Park
• Hotels near Automobile Welt Eisenach Museum
• Hotels near Reuter Wagner Museum Eisenach
• Hotels near Inselbergschanze
• Golf Hotels (7)
• Historic Hotels (12)
• Hotel Wedding Venues (2)

• Tours & Activities

Wartburg Castle Full-Day Tour from Frankfurt

• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
• Professional guide
• Entry/Admission - Wartburg Castle
• Food and drinks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Transportation type depends on group size of tour
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund

This tour was definitely worth seeing. There is an English tour guide employed by the Castle that was terrific. This castle was the home of St. Elizabeth and housed Martin Luther while he was in hiding. After visiting this castle we stopped in Eisenach, which was the town where Bach and Martin Luther had homes. In order to tour their homes it is an additional fee. Our tour guide who drove us to the Castle had never been there before and did not have any knowledge of the Castle or the town. He had to stop several times to check his gps. He provided no knowledge about Germany during our drive to and from the Castle. He was not a guide at all but simply a driver. This trip is overpriced by the tour company. I recommend that you visit this castle and town but do so by train.

• Information & Tips

• May 18, 2018

7 Reasons To Visit Wartburg Castle

High above the Thuringian town of Eisenach sits Wartburg Castle, a large and imposing complex rich in German history. With hundreds of visitors every day, this well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Germany’s most famous castles and a must-see attraction when in the state of Thuringia.

By the end of this post, you’ll have an idea of what makes Wartburg Castle such a magical destination and why it’s worth going there on a getaway or day trip.

General Information:

Opening Times:

The castle grounds are open daily 8.30am to 8pm (Nov – Mar 9am to 5pm). Guided tours run daily from 8.30am to 5pm (Nov – Mar 9am to 3.30pm). There is one English tour at 1.30pm every day.

During summer, more than 3,000 people make their way to Wartburg Castle every day. During high season, it will therefore be best to visit the castle grounds in the morning or afternoon on a week day rather than the weekend. That way you’re more likely to escape the crowds.

1. Medieval Castle Grounds

Wartburg Castle was originally constructed in 1067, though various additions over hundreds of years have given the complex a mix of architectural styles, such as Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque. The castle grounds are pretty large and consist of a three-story palace, numerous half-timbered houses, two courtyards, and an imposing entrance gate. While you can visit most of the outdoor areas for free, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to see the castle’s historic interiors. With medieval rooms decorated with mosaic tiles and paintings, the Wartburg Castle interiors are very impressive and definitely worth a visit.

2. Castle Events

Wartburg Castle hosts numerous events in its beautiful medieval buildings throughout the year. Its castle grounds are used for chamber music performances, blues and jazz shows as well as for religious services in the Castle Chapel or Festival Hall. During Christmas season, the castle organizes Christmas concerts and offers a medieval Christmas market on the weekends.

3. History & UNESCO

The hilltop castle is indeed a very historic place. The legendary Wartburg Song Contest presented in Richard Wagner’s opera Tannhäuser, allegedly took place at the castle at the beginning of the 13th century. Also, Saint Elizabeth used to live at the castle and devoted her life to the poor until she died at only 25 in 1228.

However, the most famous historical figure to visit the castle was Martin Luther . He sought refuge at Wartburg Castle after he’d been declared a heretic and sentenced to death by the Holy Roman Emperor in the 16th century. Luther resided at the castle for 300 days, during which time he translated the New Testament into German and thereby made the Wartburg Castle the birthplace of both the Luther Bible and the modern German language.

Wartburg Castle was awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site honor in 1999.

4. Beautiful Scenery & Views

Situated on a hill 410 meters above sea level, Wartburg Castle offers fantastic views of Eisenach as well as the thick Thuringian Forest . In fact, the Thuringian Forest is one of the most densely forested landscapes in the whole of Germany. You can hike most of the nature park by following the 168 km long Rennsteig trail, which dates back to the 9th century. In historic times, this trail marked the border between Thuringia and Franconia, and it is still part of a somewhat prestine environment with unique dialects, customs, and old traditions. With many cultural attractions and traditional events, the Thuringian Forest is worth a trip on its own.

5. Great Hiking Trails

Speaking of hiking, the attraction is best accessed by taking one of the numerous hiking trails leading to the majestic castle. Most of the paths are an easy 45-minute walk.

However, you may also take a longer trail and not only visit Wartburg Castle but also explore the impressive and legendary  Drachenschlucht (Dragon’s Gorge) on a roundtrip (1.5 hrs). The highlight of this path is a short section that passes through very narrow (70 cm), high and mossy rock passages.

Nature around Eisenach is incredibly beautiful and offers many opportunities for both hiking and mountain biking. Most of all, the trails are family-friendly, well-signposted and in excellent condition.

6. Eisenach

Located below Wartburg Castle, Eisenach is the gateway to the Thuringian Forest and its favorite hiking trail Rennsteig . On top of that, this gorgeous small town has a well-preserved Old Town as well as plenty of cultural and historical attractions , some of which you will definitely be able to fit into your Wartburg Castle-itinerary.

>> See also: Authentic Off-The-Beaten-Path German Towns You Have To Visit

Eisenach was the birthplace of the famous German composer Johann Sebastian Bach . In the Bachhaus (Adm: 9,50 €), a museum dedicated to Bach’s life, you can visit exhibitions and listen to music performances with baroque instruments.

Most people know the town of Eisenach for being an important Luther city . Martin Luther attended Latin School here for three years and, later on, hid out in Wartburg Castle after being declared a heretic. Today, you can learn all about Luther and the reformation in a permanent exhibition as well as temporary special exhibitions in the Lutherhaus (Adm: 8 €), a museum inside a beautiful old half-timbered house in the city center.

Despite its small size, Eisenach is a vibrant town with many sub-cultures. For centuries, the city has been a major meeting place for student fraternities, and is also home to the Landestheater (state theatre).

7. Perfect Day Trip

Frequently rated one of Germany’s top castles , Wartburg Castle should definitely be on your list if you’re around Eisenach. Since the location is close to other cities and visiting Wartburg Castle can easily be done in just one day, you may squeeze this historical site in while en route in the state of Thuringia .

Distances (by car) from Wartburg Castle…

…to Erfurt: 70 km (1 hr) …to Jena: 115 km (1.5 hr) …to Weimar: 90 km (1 hr 15 min) …to Meiningen: 55 km (50 min) …to Gotha: 35 km (45 min)

Are You A Castle Fan?

If you’re as fascinated by the magic of medieval castles as I am, you should add the following places to your bucket list as well.

Not far from Wartburg Castle, you’ll find the impressive Leuchtenburg Castle , which is probably one of the most diverse castle complexes in Germany.

>> See also: 8 Reasons To Visit Leuchtenburg Castle

Southern Germany is also home to many gorgeous castles, the most famous one being Neuschwanstein Castle with thousands of visitors every day. If you’re looking for more off-the-beaten-path castles , I recommend checking out medieval ruins and castles in the Franconian Switzerland region , including Rabenstein Castle, Egloffstein Castle, Hohenstein Castle or Altenburg Castle near the UNESCO town of Bamberg .

Or why not dedicate an entire trip to Germany’s romantic locations with this medieval-themed two-week itinerary ?

You May Also Like:

7 Reasons To Visit Hohenstein Castle Near Nuremberg, Germany Authentic Off-The-Beaten-Path German Towns You Have To Visit Budget Travel Guide: Experience Bamberg In 1 Day Budget Travel Guide: Experience Nuremberg In 2 Days 14 Unique Beers To Try In Southern Germany 4 Key Benefits Of Getaways

Hi, I'm Lena. I've been on the move traveling the world, diving oceans and climbing mountains for almost 10 years. On the blog, I share with you my favorite once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences, places off the beaten path and tips on how you can travel and dive the world without spending a fortune. Also, say hi and join my journey on Instagram - see you there!

Suchst du noch mehr Reiseinspiration?

Begib dich mit Reisejournalistin Lena im Podcast “On The Move“ auf einzigartige Reiseabenteuer abseits des Massentourismus. Kompakt, informativ und authentisch führt dich dieser Reisepodcast an magische, manchmal auch exotische Orte. Ob Inselabenteuer, Gipfeltour oder mehrtägige Rundreise: Lena teilt konkrete Reiseideen und eindrucksvolle Geheimtipps für alle, die die Welt auf eigene Faust erkunden wollen – stets mit Abenteuercharakter zum kleinen Preis.

2 Responses

• Pingback: Ultimate Bamberg Budget Travel Guide: How To Travel Bamberg In 1 Day
• Pingback: Authentic Off-The-Beaten-Path German Towns You Have To Visit

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

Wartburg Castle, in Eisenach, Germany – A Stunning Unesco World Heritage Site

By: Author Corinne Vail

Posted on Published: 7 November 12  - Last updated: 28 July 22

Home » DIY Travel » Germany » Wartburg Castle, in Eisenach, Germany – A Stunning Unesco World Heritage Site

Wartburg Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Eisenach, Germany. 

The location of the castle is above the border of what used to be West and East Germany, so for over forty years it was pretty inaccessible. 

Either because of this, or because it is such a famous pilgrimage site, the day we were there so were  plenty of people.  Last year there were over 400,000 visitors.

As a good castle should be, Wartburg is situated up high, above the town on a jutting precipice.  We drove up, up, up, and then the only parking available was down the hill a little.  Darn it!  That just meant more climbing.

In this article about Wartburg Castle, you will learn:

Wartburg Castle Eisenach

Where is wartburg castle.

• The History of Wartburg Castle

We parked the car, and as we stepped out into the cool, German spring air , we smelled the beckoning aroma of grilled bratwurst. 

Even though I’m not much of a sausage fan, I’ve found that many of the towns in the old “East” Germany still handmake their wursts, and they are delicious!  Don’t pass them up, I say.

Upon first look at Wartburg, it really feels like an old Tudor castle.  It’s majestic, yet quaint at the same time.  I love the half-timbered areas combined with the stone walls. 

There is plenty to see at the site. Like many castles nowadays, it is a museum housed in a fortress, but the frescoed ceilings, the kitchen, the halls, the bedrooms, all are filled with furniture and items from various periods of the castle’s existence.

Guided tours are offered all day long at Wartburg Castle, but there is only one English tour each day at 1:30 p.m.

Wondering where is Wartburg Castle? Well, it sits in the town of Eisenach in Thuringia and was the very first German castle to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It sits high atop a hill, at Auf der Wartburg 1, and looks out over the surrounding landscape, as has done for well over a thousand years.

A History of Wartburg Castle in Germany

One of the main reasons Wartburg is such a pilgrimage site is because it housed two very important religious figures, Saint Elisabeth and Martin Luther.   One Catholic and one starting the Protestant movement, it was interesting to note that on the tour that we took, the guide told us many, many things about Saint Elisabeth, and just mentioned Martin Luther.

Saint Elisabeth came to the castle when she was four to marry one of the Thuringer Landgraves at the young age of 14.  During this time, she was reported to be very pious and giving. 

She often gave away her clothes to the poor.  She lived in the castle until he went off to fight in the Crusades where he was promptly killed. 

This left poor Elisabeth a widow, and she was turned out of the castle to live in a nearby monastery.  There she continued her good deeds, helping to build a hospital, but unfortunately died very young at 24. 

She was sainted by Pope Gregory the IX in 1235, and only four years later they dug up her remains and took them to Marburg where a Gothic church was being built in her name.

The second religious figure to have lived in Wartburg was Martin Luther.  By the time he made it there in 1521, he had already been persecuted greatly because of his beliefs, writings, and speeches. 

He came to Wartburg under the guise of Junker Jorge or Knight George.  Luther hid in Wartbug Castle because he was named a heretic by Pope Leo X.

In the short ten weeks he was there, he was sequestered in a small, spartanly decorated room, which you can visit after the tour, and he took the time to translate the New Testament into German.

One other famous event happened in Wartburg and that was a singing competition in 1207.  It became famous and Richard Wagner referred to it in his Tannhäuser und der Sängerkrieg auf Wartburg . 

When you visit the conservatory you can see how grand it is, and the acoustics are superb.  There are many concerts still given, but it is virtually impossible to get tickets.  I hope to do so one day.

Wartburg Castle in Eisenach is a great day out. We thoroughly enjoyed visiting Wartburg castle fortified with Thuringer sausages.  I hear in the winter they hold a medieval Christmas market there which I might have to go back for the next time we get to enjoy Germany in winter !

And for more information, you can visit the castle website here .

Author Bio: Corinne Vail is a travel photographer, food lover, and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 14 years. For many years she lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands teaching the children of the US. military. She’s visited over 90 countries, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

Have you been to Eisenach or Wartburg Castle?  Have you tried the sausages? What did you think?

A Guide to Wartburg Castle and Eisenach, Germany

Perched high above the town of Eisenach, Wartburg Castle is everything you’d hope for from a Medieval castle in Germany. It features towers, turrets and an eagle’s eye view over the Thuringian Forest.

Built in the 11th century, the castle was the seat of the rulers of Thuringia. During the Middle Ages it built a reputation as a centre of culture, attracting the leading poets and musicians of the day.

Wartburg was the home of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, the wife of Louis IV who ruled over Thuringia and Saxony. It was also a place of refuge for the reformer Martin Luther. As the first German castle to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wartburg has truly played a central role in the history and culture of this region of Germany.

We visited Wartburg at the start of our 4 day driving tour through the Cultural Heart of Germany . Nestled under the castle walls, we stayed at the romantic Wartburg Hotel . From here we explored the town of Eisenach, birthplace of the 18th century master of Baroque music, Johann Sebastian Bach.

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Visiting Wartburg Castle at Eisenach

We entered Wartburg Castle through a single archway, leading into a cobbled courtyard. This encloses half timbered buildings that would have once served the castle. Now is houses the cafe, ticket office and gift shop.

Another gateway took us into a second courtyard in the oldest part of the castle, which has been added to over the centuries. It contains the 12th century Great Hall with its Romanesque arches, sandstone pillars and ground floor arcade.

Within this courtyard there’s a large cistern that was used to collect rainwater, since there’s no well at the castle. There’s also a 19th century tower that you can climb for views over the Thuringian Forest.

Starting on the ground floor

We started our visit in the ground floor room of the castle. Stone carvings, pillar tops and tomb covers are displayed here to preserve them from exposure to the weather in their original locations.

One of the tomb covers is that of the Landgrave (the ruler’s title similar to Count) Louis the Jumper who founded the castle at Wartburg. He gained his nickname after he escaped captivity at the hands of his rival, by jumping from a window into the river below.

You may also enjoy: 12 fun things to do in Erfurt, Thuringia

Many parts of the castle were restored in the 19th century. One of the highlights of our visit was the Lady Elizabeth’s Chamber or Elisabethkemenate . This large room was decorated between 1902-6 with 2.5 million glass mosaic pieces. It tells the story of the life of Saint Elizabeth who lived at Wartburg Castle.

The daughter of the King of Hungary, Elizabeth was sent as a young child of only 4 years old to the Thuringian court. She was betrothed to marry Louis IV, the future Landseer of Thuringia. In 1221, at the age of 14 she was married to Louis and bore him three children. She became known for her charitable works ministering to the poor and sick in her husband’s domain.

Saint Elizabeth’s charitable works

When she was just 20 years old, her husband Louis IV died of fever in Italy on his way to the Crusades. Elizabeth decided to withdraw from the world and become a nun. She left the court and her children to be brought up in the care of the Regent.

She continued to use her dowry for good works, although she died aged only 24 and was canonised five years later. Every surface of the Elizabeth Chamber glows with the beautiful mosaic designs created by the German artist August Oetken. This is certainly a must-see on your visit to Wartburg Castle.

You may also enjoy: Schloss Friedenstein in Gotha – The Victoria and Albert connection

The Elizabeth Gallery in the castle is also decorated in 19th century frescoes. They illustrate stories from Saint Elizabeth’s life, including one that shows the legend of the Miracle of the Roses.

The painting depicts Elizabeth leaving the castle to give bread to the poor, when she meets her husband out riding. He asks her to reveal what is hidden under her cloak, on suspicion that Elizabeth was selling the palace’s treasures for her work.

As she opens her cloak, by a miracle only cascades of roses are revealed, allowing Elizabeth to continue with her good deeds. In fact all the evidence is that Elizabeth’s marriage to Louis was a happy one and that he was supportive of her charitable work.

Troubadours’ Hall

Another room that’s decorated in 19th century style is the Sängersaal or Troubadours’ Hall. This was reportedly where the Contest of the Minstrels took place in 1206, when Count Herman I invited the best minnesingers or troubadours in Germany to compete at Wartburg Castle.

Stay at the Romantik Hotel auf der Wartburg in Eisenach

Search for other hotels in Eisenach

Count Hermann I was known as a great patron of the arts. The medieval poet and singer Walther von der Vogelweide visited Wartburg and wrote part of his famous Palästinalied ballard there.

It’s thought that Hermann I invited the six leading troubadours of the age, including Walther von der Vogelweide, to participate in a contest. This was immortalized in Richard Wagner’s opera Tannhäuser.

The story goes that the loser of the competition would be put to death. But fortunately Countess Sophia begged for mercy and so the death sentence was deferred for another year and never carried out.

At one end of the Troubadour’s Hall there’s a dais where the minstrels might have performed. The story is illustrated in murals on the wall of the castle, epitomising the romantic interest in medieval history that was the fashion in the 19th century.

Read more from this trip: 3 fabulous day trips from Dresden for culture lovers – in Saxony, Germany

Ceremonial Hall

On the upper floor of the castle is the Ceremonial Hall, also a 19th century re-imagination of what the medieval hall would have looked like. There’s decorative painting on the walls and a painted wooden coffered ceiling. The hall is regularly used for musical concerts and for graduation ceremonies for the schools in Eisenach. This part of the castle can only be visited as part of the guided tour.

Wartburg Castle and Luther

High up in the castle we visited the Luther Chamber where Martin Luther stayed and worked for almost a year from May 1521. He was sheltered under the protection of elector Friedrich the Wise after the Diet of Worms.

After which he became a virtual outlaw, because of his opposition to the practices of the church. In this simple chamber Luther completed in only 11 weeks the first German translation of the New Testament. This later became part of Luther’s translation of the first Bible to be published in German.

Through this work, Luther is revered by protestants as bringing the word of God to the German people. The castle is much visited as a place of pilgrimage. If you’re interested in Martin Luther and his impact on Germany, check out the Luther Country website . Follow the Luther trail to discover more places connected to the Father of the Reformation.

You may also enjoy: South West Germany – 4 fantastic palaces and gardens to visit

Luther lived under false identity

The picture on the wall shows how Luther lived incognito under a false identity as Junker Jörg or Knight George. He grew his hair and beard and was able to ride down to the town of Eisenach using this disguise.

From this room in the castle, there’s a wonderful view over the Thuringian Forest. However, according to Luther’s own writings, it was a trying time and he reported depressions and taunting by evil spirits.

It’s from these reports that he had “driven away the devil with ink” that the legend of Luther throwing an inkwell against the wall to drive away the devil arose. To reinforce the myth the said ink splash on the wall near the stove was apparently regularly touched up in the past!

Further on in the castle, the gallery of artworks includes portraits by Lucas Cranach of Luther’s parents who originally came from the Eisenach area.

Read more from this trip: 15 fun things to do in Dresden – in just one day!

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t miss the Historical Christmas Market at Wartburg Castle, when the courtyards come alive with medieval musicians and market stalls. Many musical and cultural events are held at Wartburg Castle throughout the year. Check the events calendar for more information when you plan your visit.

You may also enjoy: Seasonal things to do in Tubingen, Germany – ChocolART Chocolate festival and more!

Visiting Wartburg Castle

It’s free to walk around the internal courtyards of Wartburg Castle. A visit to the interior rooms of the castle is by guided tour. Regular tours are in German and one tour per day is in English at 1.30pm. After the tour you can look around the museum with its art collection and see the Luther room.

Opening hours: November to March – 9.30am – 3.30pm April to October – 9am – 5pm Adult ticket €12 Child €5 (Free to visit the courtyards)

There’s a car park set just below the castle and from there you walk up to the entrance. A mini bus transfer is available for anyone with mobility issues. You can also walk up the Schloßberg , a walking path that leads from the town of Eisenach below. However, it could be quite a steep climb if you’re not reasonably fit!

More information on the Wartburg Castle Website

Visiting Eisenach below Wartburg Castle

After visiting Wartburg Castle we walked down the hill through the forest along the leafy Schloßberg . This was developed in 2017, with information signs about the history of the area.

On the way we passed a number of large villas that were built on the slopes of the castle in the 1870s. At this time it was a fashionable place to live in romantic proximity with the castle and its medieval history.

When this region of Germany was part of the East German GDR, there was no money to repair these large villas. Many were divided into apartments or fell into disrepair, although they are now starting to be restored again as gracious family homes.

Eisenach market square

We arrived in the market square of Eisenach, which was the Medieval capital of Thuringia. It was also the place of residence for the ruling House of Wettins, whose palace in the square is now the town hall. One of the other notable things to see in Eisenach is the Georgenkirche or church of St George in the square, which dates back to the 12th century.

This is where Saint Elizabeth of Hungary married her husband Louis IV. Martin Luther sang in the choir here as a schoolboy and later preached a sermon before he had to take refuge in Wartburg Castle. The church is also where the family of Johann Sebastian Bach, the composer who was born in Eisenach, played the church organ and where the composer was baptised.

Top tip: If you’re ready for a break, stop at the Zucker und Zimt ice cream shop on the corner of the square, which is set in a beautiful old shop. Or pop in for refreshments at their adjoining coffee shop which serves light dishes. You can also look out for the market stalls run by local butchers that sell the famous Thuringia sausage. This specialty of the region is cooked over charcoal and served with mustard (never ketchup!)

Eisenach and the Luther connection

The town has strong connections with Martin Luther who attended school in Eisenach from the age of 14. He had fond memories of his time there, calling it “my beloved town” . Luther was a Latin student at the parish school of St George’s. We were able to see the remains of the monastery connected to his school, which now forms part of the local gymnasium or secondary school.

During his time as a schoolboy in Eisenach, Luther sang in the church choir. He later wrote about how he sang as a poor choirboy in front of local houses to earn some extra bread. It is said that hearing his sweet singing voice, a local woman Ursula Cotta took him in as a boarder and became like a foster mother to him. Her home now forms the Luther House – a museum that commemorates Luther’s connections with Eisenach.

Luther House

We didn’t have time to visit the Luther House , but it would be well worth a visit if you want to learn more about Martin Luther, his life and times. You will see the rooms where he lived as a schoolboy in this medieval half timbered house.

The museum was extended and renovated in time for the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017, and extends into a modern annex. Open April – October 10am – 5pm Adult ticket €10

Eisenach and Johann Sebastian Bach

Another notable son of Eisenach is Johann Sebastian Bach. Like Luther Bach attended the local Latin school and sang in the choir of St George’s church.

Music was very much the family profession. As the youngest of 9 children, Johann Sebastian followed his siblings into the business, starting as organist at St George’s church. The Bach House is a medieval house which is close to the composer’s birthplace. It has been extended to make a museum about his life.

The historic building can be visited, with some of the rooms furnished to show what daily life was like at the time Bach was growing up. See live performances on a collection of historical instruments like the spinet, clavichord and harpsichord.

In the adjoining modern annex, the exhibition takes visitors through Bach’s life and musical development. There’s frequent short concerts and bubble chairs to sit with earphones to listen to the music. Open daily 10am – 6pm Tickets €12.

Where to stay in Eisenach

We stayed at the Romantik Hotel auf der Wartburg , nestled under the walls of Wartburg Castle. It offers sweeping views over the Thuringian Forest and the town of Eisenach below.

This 5 star luxury hotel really does live up to its name as part of the “Romantik Hotel” group of restaurants and hotels. It felt very special to be staying there at the top of the hill. We felt rather smug that we could enjoy the views and the sunset long after the castle’s visitors had gone home.

The hotel was built in 1914 and the rooms are furnished in modern but comfortable style, with rich colours and luxurious velvets. We especially appreciated the personal touches, like the cakes left in our room. They were decorated with the pictures of Saint Elizabeth and Johann Sebastian Bach, in keeping with the area’s history.

The terraces and public rooms of the Wartburg Hotel are beautifully furnished with antiques and comfortable seating. Pretty flowers and sculptures decorate the entrance courtyard. From almost every window you get those wonderful bird’s-eye views over the forest that leave you (literally) feeling on top of the world.

Landgraves’ Restaurant

A highlight of our stay was the Landgrave’s Restaurant, with floor to ceiling windows giving out to a metal balcony. This makes the most of the views over the Thuringian Forest and the sunset, which we enjoyed during dinner.

The menu focuses on regional and local specialties, while elevating the homely classics of Thuringia. Sausage, potato dumplings, venison and game rose to a higher level of elegance.

We can highly recommend the Thuringia tasting plate as a starter, which has a selection of different specialties served “tapas” style. There was smoked catfish with horseradish, cream cheese with cress and honey or brawn salad with radishes.

The spread at breakfast in the same restaurant was also outstanding. We enjoyed a huge selection of cold meats, cheeses, pastries and cereals that we’ve come to expect when we travel in Germany.

Visitor Information for your trip to Eisenach and Wartburg Castle in Thuringia, Germany

If you’re interested in Martin Luther, check out the Luther Country website and follow the Luther trail to discover the places in Germany connected to the Father of the Reformation.

Read more from this trip

12 fun things to do in Erfurt, Thuringia Schloss Friedenstein in Gotha – The Victoria and Albert connection 3 fabulous day trips from Dresden for culture lovers – in Saxony, Germany 15 fun things to do in Dresden – in just one day!

Getting around: The closest airport to Eisenach with a wide range of international flights is Frankfurt, although there are smaller airports at Erfurt, Leipzig and Dresden.

We flew into Frankfurt then took the train to Eisenach, where we picked up a hire car from Europcar close to the station. There is a train station at Eisenach and the German rail network is very efficient. This would be a good way to reach Eisenach from other airports or regions of Germany, as an alternative to a hire car, which we used. Once you arrive in Eisenach, you can see all the main places around town on foot, although there’s also a good public transport network.

ThüringenCard

If you plan to do lots of sightseeing while touring in Thuringia, check out the ThüringenCard which offers free admission to over 200 places of interest within the region and use of the local buses and trains to get around. The card is available for 24 hr, 3 day or 6 day passes.

Need a guide book for Germany? We recommend the DK Eyewitness Germany Travel Guide

If you are looking for a guidebook for your visit to Thuringia and Germany, we recommend the DK Eyewitness Travel Guide to Germany .

Where is Thuringia?

Eisenach and Wartburg Castle are located within the German state of Thuringia, which is in the centre of the country and was formerly part of the East German GDR. Thuringia is bounded by the better known Bavaria to the south and Saxony to the east.

The rolling rural countryside, green belt of Thuringia forest and pretty medieval towns, castles and palaces make this an ideal road trip destination.

Map of places to visit in Saxony and Thuringia

To see all the places we visited click on the map of Saxony and Thuringia below.

Discover 15 fun things to do in Dresden, Germany – in just one day!

This article was sponsored* by The Cultural Heart of Germany, Thuringia Tourism and Visit Saxony who provided the 4 day trip and experiences mentioned.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

Click to subscribe to our monthly newsletter, news and reader offers

Abigail Wenderson

Tuesday 28th of January 2020

Thanks for this wonderful post! You crafted it really well. I hope this year I will be able to visit Germany to witness the magnificent locations.

Saturday 4th of January 2020

Beautiful Architecture... something I should be visiting this year, thanks for the recommendation :)

Friday 3rd of January 2020

Hi Heather - I enjoyed reading your post. Lots of beautiful, old castles and towns to see in Thuringia. Germany has many hidden gems like this. Thanks for sharing this with us. Mutlu

Heather Cowper

@Mutlu You're right, so many gorgeous castles in this part of Germany

Thursday 26th of December 2019

Awesome post! Thanks for sharing..

Unsere Empfehlung

Ein Familientag mit großer Geschichte.

Unsere Empfehlungen

SAGENhafte Wartburg

Das Führungsangebot für die ganze Familie - lassen Sie sich verzaubern!

Eselei | Wissens- und Erlebnisweg

Entdecke die Geheimnisse der Wartburg und folge dem Pfad der Esel!

Audioguide von Kindern für Kinder zum Downloaden

Das neue Angebot für Kinder und Familien für den Außenbereich auf der Wartburg

Die fast 1000 Jahre alte Wartburg ist eine der bekanntesten Burgen Deutschlands . Ihre außergewöhnliche Strahlkraft verdankt die Wartburg nicht nur ihrer besonderen Architektur, sondern auch historischen Ereignissen und Persönlichkeiten die eng mit ihr verbunden sind. Als erste Burg in Deutschland wurde sie 1999 von der UNESCO auf die Welterbeliste gesetzt.

Wir freuen uns auf Ihren Besuch !

Bildungsangebote

Ein Workshop zu Luthers Leben auf der Wartburg

Luthers Werk zwischen Wartburg und Medienrevolution

Geführter Rundgang für Grundschulen und Unterstufen

Weitere Angebote

Veranstaltungen

Gottesdienst Luthers Ankunft auf der Wartburg 1521

Tannhäuser und der Sängerkrieg auf Wartburg Große Romantische Oper von Richard Wagner am Originalschauplatz

Weitere Veranstaltungen

Wir verwenden Cookies 🍪

Zur besseren Nutzung unserer Webseite und zur Anzeige personalisierter Inhalte nutzen wir Cookies. Sie können der Nutzung von Cookies zustimmen, alle Cookies ablehnen oder die Cookies individuell anpassen.

Stimmen Sie der Verwendung von Cookies zu?

Schützt vor Cross-Site-Request-Forgery Angriffen.

Speichert die aktuelle PHP-Session.

Wir verwenden diese Cookies, um anonymisierte, statistische Informationen über unsere Webseite bereitzustellen. Sie werden zur Leistungsmessung und -verbesserung verwendet.

Cookie von Matomo, das für Website-Analysen, Ad-Targeting und Anzeigenmessung verwendet wird.

Um die Webseite so darzustellen, wie sie unserer Marke entspricht, verwenden wir Webfonts. Die Nutzung können Sie ablehnen. Die Darstellung der Seite wird sich dadurch verändern.

Zur besseren Darstellung unserer Marke nutzen wir Webfonts von Adobe. Dabei wird kein Cookie gespeichert, es können aber Daten an Adobe übertragen werden. Weitere Informationen dazu finden Sie hier:

https://www.adobe.com/de/privacy/policies/adobe-fonts.html

Zum Teil binden wir externe Dienste zur Darstellung von Videos, Karten o.ä ein. Um diese darstellen zu können, muss diese Kategorie aktiviert werden.

Wir binden das Youtube-Video über YouTube Nocookie ein. Dabei werden keine personenbezogenen Daten an Dritte weitergegeben. Trotzdem ist es möglich, dass Google durch Abspielen des Videos Daten sammelt.

Wartburg Castle – A Romanesque Hilltop Perch

Wartburg Castle is, in many respects, “the ideal castle,” thanks to its seamless integration with the surrounding natural woodland setting. Little of the castle’s original feudal-era architecture survives today but combined with the form it took in a 19th-century reconstruction, the castle provides a relatively accurate picture of the fortress as it could have looked during the height of its defensive and seigniorial strength .

This massive medieval stronghold, perched on a hillside in the suburbs of Eisenach, is one of Germany’s most familiar national emblems. The castle was believed to be the asylum place of Martin Luther . Let’s dive into the incredible history and interesting facts about Wartburg castle that will surely make you want to visit this place with your family and friends.

Table of Contents

• 1.0.1 Where is Wartburg Castle Located?
• 1.0.2 When was Wartburg Castle Built? Who Build It?
• 1.0.3 When is The Best Time to Visit the Castle?
• 1.0.4 What Other Monuments are Located Nearby?
• 2.1 Castle Myths 
• 2.2 Refuge of Thinkers at Wartburg Castle
• 2.3 Becoming a Heritage Site
• 3 Current Times
• 4 Interesting Wartburg Castle Facts
• 5.1 How to get to Wartburg Castle?
• 5.2.1 From April 1 to November 6, 2022
• 5.2.2 From November 7, 2022 to March 31, 2023
• 5.3 Things To Do in Wartburg Castle 
• 5.4.1 Up to Date Information
• 5.4.2 Some words of advice and tips: 
• 5.4.3 Quick Video Tour of The Main Wartburg Castle Areas

.ugb-cc08ac3 .ugb-blockquote__quote{fill:#000000 !important;width:42px !important;height:42px !important}.ugb-cc08ac3 .ugb-blockquote__text{color:#d21e1e} Despite never having served as a fortress, Wartburg Castle is constructed as a fortress castle. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is wartburg castle located.

Wartburg Castle overlooks a drop of 410 meters (1345 ft) outside Eisenach town, in the German state of  Thuringia .

When was Wartburg Castle Built? Who Build It?

The Medieval iteration of Wartburg Castle was built in 1067 and mentioned first in 1080 in a document. The castle was built by Count Louis , a popular figure in German legends.

When is The Best Time to Visit the Castle?

Wartburg Castle is accessible to guests throughout the year. Since the castle is always open to visitors, you can visit this castle any day of the year. The castle is beautiful no matter what time of year you decide to come

What Other Monuments are Located Nearby?

After visiting Wartburg Castle, you could take time to admire some other beautiful sites near the castle, including Lutherhaus, Reuter Wagner Museum, Karthausgarten, Schorsch’l Kleinkunstkneipe, and St. George’s Fountain

FOR HISTORY | BEAUTIFUL IMAGES | INTERESTING FACTS | TRAVEL TIPS

Early History

The castle was supposedly built in 1067 by Knight Graf Ludwig . The first mention of the castle in historical documents dates back to 1080, when Bruno, Bishop of Merseburg , wrote about it. Wartburg is one of Europe’s most well-preserved examples of a Romanesque castle. Here are other examples of Romanesque castle design . The main building, which is located in the heart of the castle, is thought to have been constructed sometime around 1155. The castle was unlike any other area in its day, making it famous well beyond its borders.

Castle Myths 

The various historical events that have taken place within Wartburg’s massive walls hold the ability to fill many volumes of books. According to one myth, the Minnesingers’ Contest, or “Singers War,” took place in the Castle in 1206 when six musicians (including Walther von der Vogelweide and Wolfram von Eschenbach ) assembled to perform for the castle’s master, Hermann I. 

A debate arose about the worst singer, after which the local celebrity minstrel, Meister Klingsor, was called in to arbitrate. Those judged to have the worst sense of music were given the death penalty. Meister Klingsor decided that there was no victor in the battle of the singers, as is customary in historical epics.

Refuge of Thinkers at Wartburg Castle

In 1521–after being excommunicated by the pope and proscribed by the Holy Roman Emperor for undermining Catholic dogma with his 95 Theses–German church reformer Martin Luther sought refuge in Wartburg Castle. 

While Luther was in hiding here, he translated the New Testament from Greek into German–his work is still the basis for the present German Bible. Since Luther departed from Wartburg Castle, the castle’s modestly furnished parlor, where the father of the Reformation resided and worked, has been a popular visitor attraction.

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe , the most well-known writer in Germany, spent five weeks at Wartburg Castle in 1777. During that time, he sketched the now-dilapidated structure and visited the beautiful Thuringian Forest. Around 500 students gathered at Wartburg Castle on October 18, 1817, for the “ Wartburgfest ,” the first public manifestation of democracy in the country’s history. The student’s dedication to a free and united Germany was declared under the slogan “Honor, Freedom, Fatherland.”

Becoming a Heritage Site

The castle gradually deteriorated and fell into disuse over the years. Extensive renovations of the castle’s interior did not begin until the 1950s. The primary structure was renovated to its original Romanesque architecture under the watchful eye of the communist German Democratic Republic.

The palace, which is the oldest structure in the castle, was constructed during the late Romanesque period in the 12th century and is now used as a performance hall. On the grounds of the castle is a museum with priceless artifacts from the past several centuries on display, such as tapestries, medieval musical instruments, and silverware.

Revisit More Historic Places Below or Read Further

Edinburgh Castle – Scotland’s History in Architectural Form

Egeskov Castle – Picturesque Water Castle (History, Travel Tips & Video Tour)

Current times.

Wartburg Castle is a popular tourist destination and the most-visited site in Thuringia. Its unparalleled beauty, attractive history, and outstanding architecture attract tourists worldwide. Today, almost 3000 tourists visit daily to walk up the cliff to see the stunning Wartburg Castle. 

Wartburg Castle has served as a knowledge hub for Christianity throughout German history. Due to this, it has long been a place of pilgrimage for the people of Germany and beyond. Due to its exceptional medieval architecture and historical and religious value, UNESCO classified Wartburg Castle on the World Heritage List in 1999. 

Not only it is a heritage site but an active place for community events such as occasional concerts held in the late Romanesque palace.

Interesting Wartburg Castle Facts

• Despite never having served as a fortress, Wartburg Castle is constructed as a fortress castle . 
• The main building of Wartburg Castle, established in 1067, was built in the 12th century. In contrast, Neuschwanstein in Bavaria (partly inspired by Wartburg), is a late-nineteenth-century fairy-tale confection.
• From 1838 through 1890, portions of the castle were converted into a fantasy of frescoes, mosaics, and other German Romantic artworks .
• After being labeled an outlaw and a heretic at the Diet of Worms, Martin Luther fled to Wartburg Castle for 300 days in 1521–1522, where he translated the Bible into German. 
• There is a museum at Wartburg Castle, a popular tourist destination that receives about 500,000 visitors a year, and a venue for concerts and opera performances.
• The Wartburg Castle features some of the most exemplary Romanesque architecture in the area.
• From the 1500s until the Grand Duke of Saxony chose to re-establish and renovate the fortress early in the nineteenth century, Wartburg Castle was mainly neglected and abandoned.

Visiting Wartburg Castle – Tips and Tricks

Wartburg is one of the world’s most alluring and beautiful castles. Due to its extensive historical significance, tourists frequent this place of significant importance. Knowing all these fascinating facts are sure to inspire you to visit it with all your zeal and vigor, at least once in your lifetime … so here is some practical information to help you plan your trip.

How to get to Wartburg Castle?

In the German state of Thuringia, Wartburg Castle is situated just outside the community of Eisenach. Large parking lots are provided at the foot of the Castle for vehicles, or you can use public transport from the town’s center to get there. 

The cab cost from Thuringia to Wartburg Castle is about $240-$290 USD. If you are using your private car to drive up to Wartburg, it can cost about $12-$18 USD.

Several paths can also be used to get to the castle grounds, with the majority being 2 to 3 kilometers (1.25 to 1.8 miles) long.

Ticket Prices, Visiting Hours & Travel Tips

Information was checked & updated on November 5, 2023.

The best thing about Warburg Castle is that it is open throughout the year due to its legacy as a World Heritage Site. All you need to do is focus on the visiting hours in a particular day.

From April 1 to November 6, 2022

The museum, Luther’s room, and the palace of the castle are open for visitors from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, whereas the castle grounds and courtyards are open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. You can also have your guide who will guide you separately without any extra charge or fee.You can also tour the castle virtually by using Wartburg app from 3:00 pm.

From November 7, 2022 to March 31, 2023

The museum, Luther’s room, and palace are open from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm, whereas the castle grounds and courtyard are accessible for visitors from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. 

And for the individual virtual tour, you can visit the Wartburg app from 2:30 pm. 

Your visit to Wartburg Castle is very economical as it costs €12 ($13 USD) for seniors and adults, €8 ($8 USD) for trainees, students, and disabled visitors, €5 ($5 USD) for children, and a family with school-age children costs €29. 

In contrast to many other castles where you can take photos of your own without any charge, at Wartburg Castle you have to get a permit to click pictures and make memories. To obtain the license, you have to pay €2 ($2 USD). After that, you are free to go with your camera.

Things To Do in Wartburg Castle 

Every castle is known for its unique characteristics that make it stand out among the other castles. However, Wartburg Castle is wonderfully blessed as a World Heritage Site. Here is a short list of things you can do at the castle. 

• The most popular tourist attraction in Wartburg Castle is the Luther Room or Lutherstube. Martin Luther lived in this castle room when he was exiled for almost 300 days from 1521-1522. Well-preserved from the era, sights like these are rare to find these days. Don’t miss it!
• The architecture of the castle is dated back to the 12 th century. Your tour will start from the Romanesque area of the castle, where you can see the ceiling beams from the 12 th century. The closer you look, the more you will admire the people’s work from that time.
• You will also find a gift shop near the ticket office with many books, handicrafts, books, and other items. You can buy something for your friends and family to give them a treasure piece from Wartburg Castle.
• There are many stone carvings in the castle, such as the carving of the Virgin Mary with her family. These carvings are from the 14 th and 15 th centuries, adding to the Castle’s exquisiteness.

How Long Will It Take to Tour Around?

A complete tour of Wartburg Castle will take around two hours or more. Although the guided tour will take only one hour, there is a lot to see in the castle, including a museum, so it might take a bit longer than some other castles on your list.

If you want to look around and admire the thrilling historical castle, you will need around five hours to get in, see everything, and then get out.

Up to Date Information

For up to date ticket prices and visiting hours visit the official website: https://www.wartburg.de/en/my-visit/opening-times-guided-tours-prices.html

Some words of advice and tips: 

• Visitors who need assistance can use a free shuttle service, especially ran for the elderly and the disabled. 
• Kids can pay to ride donkeys to the castle on lovely summer days. Locate the Eselstation, also known as the donkey station, along the road a short distance past the parking area.
• More than three thousand people visit Wartburg every day throughout the summer. Staying on a weekday during the peak season will help you skip the crowds and long queues at the attractions. So, if you want to avoid crowds, you have to carefully decide on the season to visit the Castle and try to be as early as possible to enjoy the beauty of the beauty with fewer visitors.

Quick Video Tour of The Main Wartburg Castle Areas

REVISIT MORE HISTORY BELOW

The best 7 best castles to visit in the united states, the largest palaces in the world (history & travel tips), biggest castles in the world (history & travel tips), 10 oldest castles in the world | history & travel tips, 9 most impressive castles built on a cliff | travel tips included, the best castles to visit in russia (listed by popularity).

Our mission is to build a strong community and create an online platform which is easy to use, appealing to the eye and shares a different approach to history – one that cannot be simply found on Wikipedia. Our dedicated contributors: writers, photographers, researchers, and filmmakers are the core of this project and this is what makes Revisiting History unique!

Contact us: info[at]revisitinghistory[dot]com

Revisit History

© Copyright - www.revisitinghistory.com. All rights reserved.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Copyright Notice