Five Incredible Castles to See on a Rhine River Cruise

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The Middle Rhine River Valley is a stretch of the Rhine River so beautiful and historic that it is named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you sail this stunning part of the Rhine, which extends from Koblenz to Rüdesheim in Germany, you will gaze upon rolling hills, lush vineyards, charming small towns, and an astounding number of castles.

The Rhine River is home to the highest density of castles in Europe, with more than 40 castles in just the Middle Rhine section alone.

Here are five of the most incredible castles along the Rhine River that you don’t want to miss:

 
1. Marksburg Castle

The Marksburg Castle is remarkable for how well-maintained it has remained over the years. While most castles from this period needed varying degrees of restoration, you will find this castle in its original construction. It is the only castle along the entire Rhine River that has never been destroyed. Visiting the Marksburg Castle is like being transported back in time as it gives the best insight into medieval life. A tour of the castle will take you through the citadel, kitchen, wine cellar, and even a torture chamber.

2. Rheinstein Castle

One of the oldest buildings on the Rhine River, this castle dates back to the 9^th century. It has an astounding position on the rocky Cliffside overlooking the Rhine. The Rheinstein Castle has a working drawbridge and portcullis. It is now a museum, restaurant, and hotel, making it a perfect visit for history and culture.

3. Stolzenfels Castle

Located just south of Koblenz and surrounded by thick forest, this imperial yellow castle was initially built in the 13^th century to defend the nearby silver mines. The French destroyed the castle. Then in 1823, the Prussian Crown Prince Friedrich Wilhelm IV commissioned a remodel in a neo-Gothic style as a summer home. The Stolzenfels Castle now stands with stunning works from the period of High Romanticism found in the murals.

 

4. Pfalzgrafenstein Castle

This is undoubtedly the most curious castle with the shape of a ship’s bow. King Ludwig I of Bavaria erected this castle in 1326 for collecting customs duties from passing vessels on the Rhine River. The castle continued serving as a toll station until the 19th century. What makes Pfalzgrafenstein Castle unique is not how it functioned but its location. This six-story tower sits on a tiny island in the middle of the swirling waters you cruise right past.

5. Katz and Maus Castles

Located near each other on opposite banks of the Rhine, these two castles were originally called Neukatzenelnbogen and Thurnberg castles. They were nicknamed Katz (cat) and Maus (mouse) due to the cat and mouse rivalry between them. The castles are still known by these names today.

 

These are just a handful of the incredible castles to see on a Rhine River Cruise, which will undoubtedly highlight of your trip. Is a Rhine River cruise for you? For more information about a River Cruise on the Rhine, please reach out to me.

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