Top 9 Castles in Austria

Castles in Austria are one of the most captivating historical treasures in Europe, queuing medieval strength, royal beauty and impressive Alpine landscape. From hilltop castles observing ancient trade routes or luxurious Baroque palaces, which hosted emperors, Austria castles castles provide an unforgettable journey through centuries of European history. It is a captivating array of architectural fashions, royal intrigue, and cultural roots that have kept tourists over the world coming back. This detailed guide will feature the most splendid castles in Austria, their historical importance, architecture and what makes them worth visiting by both history lovers and other cultural travellers.

Read more: Austria Tourism

Why Castles in Austria Are World-Famous Tourist Attractions

Austria has over 1,000 castles, fortresses, and palaces spread across its regions, making it one of Europe’s richest countries for castle exploration.

• Home to well-preserved medieval fortresses and imperial palaces
• Deep connection to the Habsburg monarchy and European history
• Spectacular settings in the Alps, lakes, vineyards, and old towns
• Many castles operate as museums, UNESCO sites, and cultural venues
• Easy accessibility with excellent public transport and guided tours

Best Castles in Austria You Must Visit

1. Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg – Europe’s Largest Medieval Fortress

Towering above Salzburg’s old town, Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Built in 1077, it offers panoramic views of the Old Town and Alps, historic chambers, museums, and a funicular ride that enhances the visitor experience. 

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 1,500 (includes funicular)
• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
• Why Visit: One of Europe’s largest medieval fortresses with panoramic Salzburg and Alpine views.
• Duration:  2–3 hours

Tip: Visit late afternoon for golden-hour views over Salzburg

2. Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna – UNESCO-Listed Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs

The size and royal affairs of the castle make Schoenbrunn one of the most popular and largest castles in Austria. Previously serving as the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors, this Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts more than 1400 rooms, sculpted gardens, water features, the Gloriette historic lookout and more. This is where Empress Maria Theresa ruled and where young Mozart once performed.

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 2,200 (Grand Tour)
• Best Time to Visit: April–June & September
• Why Visit: UNESCO-listed imperial palace showcasing Habsburg luxury, gardens, and royal history.
• Duration: 3–4 hours
  

3. Belvedere Palace, Vienna – Baroque Masterpiece & Klimt Museum

Belvedere Palace is a magnificent Baroque compound, which comprises of Upper, Lower Belvedere and the formal gardens. Originally built as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, it is now one of Austria’s most important art museums. Beyond art, the palace offers elegant architecture, symmetrical gardens, and beautiful city views, making it one of the favourite places to visit in Austria for culture lovers and photographers.

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 1,900 (Upper Belvedere)
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings
• Why Visit: Iconic Baroque palace housing Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss and elegant gardens.
• Duration: 2–3 hours

Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds around Klimt exhibits

4. Burg Kreuzenstein, Lower Austria – Fairytale Medieval Castle Near Vienna

Located just outside Vienna, Kreuzenstein Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Austria. Although rebuilt in the 19th century using medieval fragments from across Europe, it retains an authentic and dramatic feel. It is a popular historical filming adventure due to its stone bridges, battlements and armouries. Visiting this castle is among the best things to do in Austria . 

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 1,000
• Best Time to Visit: May–September
• Why Visit: Fairytale-style medieval revival castle popular for films and photography.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
  

5. Hochosterwitz Castle, Carinthia – Austria’s Unconquered Fortress

Hochosterwitz Castle rises dramatically atop a limestone rock and is considered one of Austria’s most impressive defensive castles that has never been captured. Famous for its 14 fortified gates, each designed to stop invaders, the castle offers a real sense of medieval military strategy. Tourists are able to walk up the winding trail or ride a cable car halfway. 

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 1,200
• Best Time to Visit: Summer months
• Why Visit: Famous for its 14 defensive gates and unbeatable countryside views.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours
  

6. Tratzberg Castle, Tyrol – Best Renaissance Castle in the Alps

One of the privately owned and well-preserved castles in Austria, hidden between Innsbruck and Schwaz, is the Tratzberg Castle. Its interiors include Renaissance woodwork, frescoes and old furniture. The guided tours are sound-based and very informative, and provide an insight into the noble life in Tyrol.

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 1,100
• Best Time to Visit: May–October
• Why Visit: Beautifully preserved Renaissance interiors set against Alpine scenery.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours

7. Werfen Castle, Salzburg Region – Falconry Fortress Above Salzach Valley

Werfen Castle stands high above the Salzach Valley and dates back over 900 years. It is famous for its falconry shows, where birds of prey fly over mountainous backgrounds. The castle was also featured in the classic films, like Where Eagles Dare. It is the place to include in the list of a 5-day Austria itinerary in 2026. This is also one of the family-friendly castles in Austria. 

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 1,600 (with falconry show)
• Best Time to Visit: June–September
• Why Visit: A dramatic mountain fortress renowned for its live falconry and rich film history.
• Duration: 2–3 hours
  

8. Burg Riegersburg, Styria – Never-Captured Volcanic Hilltop Fortress

Burg Riegersburg is a dramatic hilltop fort rising from volcanic rock (Styria). It is one of the romantic castles in Austria for couples. It was an important fortress in preventing the Ottoman invasion of the region, as it was never taken over. Tourists have the opportunity to visit fortress walls, weapons, witch trials museums, and have an excellent view of vineyards and scenery below.

• Entry Fee: Approx. INR 1,300
• Best Time to Visit: April–October
• Why Visit: Never-conquered volcanic hill fortress with museums and vineyard views.
• Duration: 2 hours

Tip: Combine a visit with a local wine tasting nearby

9. Schloss Ort, Upper Austria – Romantic Lakeside Castle on Lake Traunsee

Set on a small island in Lake Traunsee, Schloss Ort is one of the most romantic lakeside castles in Austria. It is connected by a wooden bridge, which makes it appear magical during sunset and sunrise. It is smaller than imperial palaces; however, because of its placement, it is amazingly popular for photography or holding weddings, and do quiet walks.

• Entry Fee: Free (courtyard access)
• Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset (May–September
• Why Visit: One of Austria’s most romantic lakeside castles, perfect for photography.
• Duration: 1 hour
  

Top Castles and Palaces in Austria at a Glance (Quick Comparison Table)

Castle / Palace	Location	Entry Fee (Approx.)	Why Visit	Best Time
Hohensalzburg Fortress	Salzburg	INR 1,500	Panoramic views and medieval history	Morning/Late afternoon
Schönbrunn Palace	Vienna	INR 2,200	The largest imperial palace and gardens	Apr–Jun, Sep
Belvedere Palace	Vienna	INR 1,900	Klimt’s The Kiss and Baroque beauty	Weekday mornings
Burg Kreuzenstein	Near Vienna	INR 1,000	Fairytale medieval castle	May–Sep
Hochosterwitz Castle	Carinthia	INR 1,200	Famous 14 defensive gates	Summer
Tratzberg Castle	Tyrol	INR 1,100	Renaissance interiors	May–Oct
Werfen Castle	Salzburg Region	INR 1,600	Falconry and mountain views	Jun–Sep
Burg Riegersburg	Styria	INR 1,300	Never-conquered fortress	Apr–Oct
Schloss Ort	Upper Austria	Free	Romantic lakeside setting	May–Sep

Best Time to Visit Austrian Castles (Month-by-Month Guide)

The best time to visit Austrian castles is during the months of May up to October, when most of the palaces and castles are in their full swing, the weather is clear, gardens are in their full bloom, and mountain castles can be visited easily to sightsee and take pictures at the same time.

Season	Weather	Ideal For
Spring (Apr–Jun)	Mild & pleasant	Blooming gardens, sightseeing, and fewer crowds.
Summer (Jul–Aug)	Warm & sunny	Hilltop fortresses, festivals, and long daylight hours (busy season).
Autumn (Sep–Oct)	Cool & crisp	Autumn colours, photography, relaxed palace tours
Winter (Nov–Feb)	Cold & snowy	Vienna palaces, Christmas markets, fairytale snow views (some castles closed).

Tip: For the perfect balance of weather, crowds, and scenery, April–June and September–October are the best times to visit castles in Austria.

How to Reach Castles in Austria: Transport Guide for Tourists

Austria has a well-developed connection of its Attractions via train, bus, as well as by car.

• By Train: Austria’s rail network makes it easy to reach major castle cities like Vienna and Salzburg. From the main stations, most palaces are accessible by metro, tram, bus, or short walks.
• By Car: Renting a car is the most convenient way to visit Alpine castles, hilltop fortresses, and countryside sites such as those in Lower Austria and Tyrol. It is the best transportation option for visiting remote castles in  Austria. 
• By Public Transport (Bus & Tram): Urban castles such as Schoenbrunn and Belvedere are in close connection with city buses, trams, and the metro line, making travelling without a car easy.

Tip: Use public transport for city castles and rent a car for mountain or rural castles to save time and maximise coverage.

Essential Tips for Visiting Castles in Austria in 2026

• Wear comfortable footwear, as many castles involve uphill walks and stone staircases.
• Arrive early in the summer to avoid crowds
• Many castles are included in the Vienna Pass & regional passes
• Some castle ruins are free to explore
• Check accessibility if travelling with seniors or children
• Respect preservation rules by avoiding flash photography indoors. 
• Audio guides are highly recommended for a deeper historical understanding.

Conclusion: Why Austria Is Europe’s Ultimate Castle Destination

Exploring the castles in Austria is like walking through the pages of European history. Each fortress tells a story of ambition, defence, art, and resilience. From the artistic grandeur of Belvedere Palace to the fairytale charm of Kreuzenstein, the military brilliance of Hochosterwitz, Renaissance elegance at Tratzberg, and the dramatic valley views of Werfen Castle, Austria’s castles offer an unforgettable journey. To make your trip seamless and stress-free, choose Austria tour packages from Pickyourtrail with expert-curated itineraries, verified stays, smooth transfers, and complete customisation. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Castles in Austria

Are castles in Austria suitable for children?

Yes, many castles offer interactive exhibits, knight armour displays, and open courtyards that children enjoy.

Which Austrian castle offers the best views?

Hohensalzburg Fortress and Hochosterwitz Castle are widely considered the best for panoramic views.

Do Austrian castles accept cards for entry tickets?

Most major castles accept credit and debit cards, but carrying some cash is advisable in rural areas.

Can I visit Austrian castles using public transport?

Yes, many castles like Schönbrunn and Hohensalzburg are easily accessible by train, bus, or funicular.

What is the most beautiful castle in Austria?

Many travellers consider Schönbrunn Palace the most beautiful due to its grand Baroque architecture and vast gardens, while others love Belvedere Palace for its art, elegance, and city views.

How many castles are there in Austria?

Austria is home to over 4,000 castles, palaces, and fortresses, making it one of Europe’s richest countries in royal and medieval heritage.

What is the biggest castle in Austria?

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is the largest palace complex in Austria, with more than 1,400 rooms and expansive landscaped gardens.

Where is the prettiest place in Austria?

The answer depends on taste, but Hallstatt, the Salzkammergut Lake District, and Tyrol’s Alpine villages are often ranked among the prettiest places in Austria for scenery and charm.