Harburg Castle (Schloss Harburg) is a medieval hilltop fortress above the Wörnitz river in the Swabia region of Bavaria, and one of the signature stops on Germany's Romantic Road. First documented in 1150 as a Staufer imperial castle, it was never seriously damaged in war and is regarded as one of the oldest and best-preserved fortresses in Southern Germany. Today it is looked after by the Prince of Oettingen-Wallerstein Cultural Foundation, with the interior buildings, chapel and wall-walk accessible only on guided tours. The 2026 season runs from 14 March to 8 November, so plan your visit within these dates to see the interiors, towers and ramparts.
The ring wall (Ringmauer) linked by six towers — among the oldest parts of the castle — with a walk offering views over the Wörnitz valley
The core complex of two keeps and the palas (lordly residence), plus a rare late-medieval defensive corridor
The three-gate defensive sequence — Lower, Inner and Upper gates — notably the Upper Gate's chain-raised portcullis
The castle chapel (St. Michael's), the granary (Kastenhaus) and the former bakery, now the ticket office and shop
The 'Red Stables' (Rote Stallungen) in the outer bailey, said to have been sketched by the painter Carl Spitzweg during an 1858 visit
Good to know
SeasonThe 2026 opening season is 14 March to 8 November; interior visits are not possible outside these dates. If you plan a winter trip, confirm opening in advance.
RulesThe interior (buildings, chapel, wall-walk) is seen only on a guided tour, typically starting on the hour and lasting about 60 minutes — time your arrival to match a tour slot.
SafetyThe castle sits on a hill above the town, with cobbles, stone steps and slopes inside. Wear sturdy comfortable shoes; a baby carrier is easier than a stroller if travelling with an infant.
MannersQuiet is expected in the chapel and princely rooms; indoor photography, flash and tripods may be restricted. Follow your guide and do not touch furnishings or exhibits.
RulesPrices, hours and tour times can change (for 2026, grounds admission is about €3.50 for adults, with guided tours around €5 extra). Check the official website for the latest before you go.
CautionThere is no roadside 'ticket agent' or entry middleman — buy tickets only at the on-site ticket office (the former bakery). As with any busy Romantic Road landmark, keep an eye on your belongings in peak season.
Practical info
From Donauwörth, an Arverio regional train reaches Harburg (Schwaben) station in about 11 minutes, roughly hourly; from the station it is a 15–20 minute uphill walk to the castle. Regional buses 700 (towards Donauwörth) and 8831 (towards Nördlingen) also serve the town. In 2026 the castle opens 14 March–8 November, daily 10:00–17:00; verify prices and tour times on the official website before visiting.
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