Top 17 Castles around Ettlingen
Best castles around Ettlingen are found in a region characterized by its medieval old town, nestled between the Black Forest mountains and the Rhine plain. Ettlingen Castle, a prominent historical landmark, showcases 800 years of architectural history, evolving from a medieval fortress to a Baroque palace. The area offers a blend of cultural significance and natural landscapes, with castles and ruins providing historical insights and panoramic views.
Best castles around Ettlingen
- The most popular castles is Ettlingen Old Town and Castle, a historical site and castle that evolved from a 13th-century fortress into a Baroque palace. Today, it serves as a cultural center, hosting exhibitions and events.
- Another must-see spot is St. Barbara Chapel Ruins, a religious building and castle ruin. Its impressive tower, accessible via a spiral staircase, offers panoramic views over Langensteinbach and the surrounding area.
- Visitors also love Turmberg Ruins and Viewpoint (Durlach, Karlsruhe), a viewpoint and historical castle ruin. It provides magnificent views of Durlach, Karlsruhe, and the Rhine plain.
- Ettlingen is known for its Baroque palaces, medieval fortresses, and castle ruins. The region offers a variety of historical sites to explore, from well-preserved castles to ancient ruins with scenic viewpoints.
- The castles around Ettlingen are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 2800 upvotes and more than 1600 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Karlsruhe Palace
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Ettlingen Old Town and Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
Today's castle had two, possibly three, previous buildings. After the Baden Margrave Hermann V was enfeoffed by Emperor Friedrich II with the town of Ettlingen, which was founded by the Hohenstaufens, his son Margrave Rudolf I of Baden built a castle complex in the middle of the 13th century - possibly on the remains of a previous Hohenstaufen building; However, a previous building has not yet been proven. The lower floors of the keep in the castle courtyard, which are still preserved today, date from this time.
A magnificent Renaissance castle followed in the 16th century. Two round corner towers were added to the south wing, and the keep was given a half-timbered upper floor. The three-wing Renaissance complex around the old keep, completed in 1600, was destroyed along with the entire city by French troops in the War of the Palatinate Succession in 1689.
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St. Barbara Chapel Ruins
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Make sure to stop by under the chapel, there is a small passage there.
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Castle Square
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The monument bears the inscription on the front
CARL FRIEDRICH
GROSHERZOG
VON
BADEN
Source: ka.stadtwiki.net/Gro%C3%9Fherzog-Karl-Friedrich-Denkmal
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Turmberg Ruins and Viewpoint (Durlach, Karlsruhe)
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Popular around Ettlingen
Between two twin cities - From Stuttgart to Strasbourg
Sustainable travel – hikes that you can enjoy without a car
Right the Black Forest, left the Rhine – the Baden Wine Cycle Route
A cycling adventure from Paris to Prague – Pan-European Cycle Route
Exploring the Black Forest in Germany – fantastic trails & nature
Vineyards and the Rhine Valley – the Baden Wine Cycle Route
Cross-hiking the Black Forest
Secluded valleys & dramatic passes – best of Black Forest road cycling
Lichterglanz und Winterwanderzauber – Advent im Schwarzwald
Blütenzauber – Frühlings-Graveln im Schwarzwald
Other adventures around Ettlingen
Tips from the Community
The monument honors Grand Duke Karl Friedrich (1728-1811), who was a pioneer of his time with his long reign of 65 years and his reform efforts.
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Unfortunately it is still scaffolded at the moment... so a visit to the top is not possible
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The baroque castle was largely rebuilt between 1955 and 1966 after it was destroyed in World War II. Today it houses the State Museum. The 165 steps of the 42-meter-high tower lead to the viewing platform, from which you have a magnificent view of the Palatinate Forest and parts of the Black Forest.
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The historic old town of Ettlingen impresses with its narrow streets, beautiful cafés and historic houses next to modern city architecture. Ettlingen Castle rises in the middle of the old town, the oldest parts of which go back to a medieval castle that was converted into a representative Renaissance complex in the 16th century. Ettlingen is always worth a visit.
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The gateway to the northern Black Forest with its old town, the many cafés, the town hall square, the castle, the stock of well-kept old half-timbered houses, the gastronomy (especially the Vogelbräu brewery) and many other highlights are a must-see. Even the longest journey is worthwhile. Of course there is also an excellent hotel business, --- and castle festivals, the Alb, the Bismarkturm and and.....
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The Grand Duke Karl Friedrich Monument stands in Karlsruhe's Palace Square. In his right hand, the Grand Duke holds the document dated July 23, 1783, abolishing serfdom in Baden. The grand ducal coat of arms from 1807 to 1830 is displayed on the pedestal. The four female figures at each corner of the pedestal represent Old Baden, the region along the Main and Neckar rivers, the Black Forest (to the left), and the Lake Constance region (to the right). https://ka.stadtwiki.net/Gro%C3%9Fherzog-Karl-Friedrich-Denkmal
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Gigantic castle with great outdoor facilities. Great park and definitely walk a few meters further to the botanical garden!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main castle to visit in Ettlingen?
The primary castle in Ettlingen is Ettlingen Old Town and Castle. It has a rich history, evolving from a 13th-century fortress into a magnificent Baroque palace. Today, it serves as a vibrant cultural center, housing Museum Ettlingen and hosting events like the annual Schlossfestspiele.
What can I see and do at Ettlingen Castle?
At Ettlingen Castle, you can explore 800 years of architectural history, from medieval foundations to Baroque splendor. Visit Museum Ettlingen for local history, art, and East Asian handicrafts. The castle also features the 'Asamsaal' and a chapel with frescoes by Cosmas Damian Asam. From June to August, the courtyard hosts the open-air 'Schlossfestspiele'. You can also climb the 42-meter-high tower for panoramic views of the Palatinate Forest and parts of the Black Forest.
Are there other notable castles or ruins near Ettlingen?
Yes, beyond Ettlingen, you can visit Karlsruhe Palace, which was rebuilt as a museum after World War II and features a grand park. Another option is St. Barbara Chapel Ruins, offering impressive views over Langensteinbach from its accessible tower. The Turmberg Ruins and Viewpoint (Durlach, Karlsruhe) also provides magnificent views of Durlach, Karlsruhe, and the Rhine plain.
Is Ettlingen Castle family-friendly?
Yes, Ettlingen Old Town and Castle is considered family-friendly. Its historical significance, museum, and the annual Schlossfestspiele (which includes children's theater) offer engaging experiences for all ages. The surrounding old town is also pleasant for family strolls.
Are there wheelchair-accessible castles around Ettlingen?
Ettlingen Old Town and Castle is noted as wheelchair accessible. Additionally, Karlsruhe Palace and the Castle Square in front of it are also listed as wheelchair accessible, offering opportunities to explore.
What kind of views can I expect from the castles in the region?
Many castles and ruins in the region offer excellent viewpoints. From the tower of Ettlingen Castle, you can enjoy expansive views of the Palatinate Forest and parts of the Black Forest. The St. Barbara Chapel Ruins provide a great panoramic view over Langensteinbach, while the Turmberg Ruins and Viewpoint (Durlach, Karlsruhe) offers magnificent vistas of Durlach, Karlsruhe, and the Rhine plain.
Can I bring my dog to the castles?
Ettlingen Old Town and Castle is listed as dog-friendly, making it a good option for visitors with pets. Always check specific rules for interior access or museum areas, but the surrounding old town and castle grounds are generally welcoming.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Ettlingen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring, road cycling, and gravel biking. For example, there are routes like the 'Murgtal Rock Tunnel – Tour de Murg cycle path loop' or the 'Great Ettlinger Tour - Graveling in the Black Forest'. You can explore more cycling options on the Cycling around Ettlingen guide page.
What is the best time of year to visit Ettlingen Castle?
Ettlingen Castle is a year-round destination. However, visiting between June and August allows you to experience the annual open-air 'Schlossfestspiele' (Castle Festival) in the courtyard, featuring plays, musicals, opera, and children's theater. The charming medieval old town is also particularly enjoyable during warmer months.
Where can I find more information about the Museum Ettlingen?
The Museum Ettlingen, located within Ettlingen Castle, offers exhibitions on local history, regional art, archaeological artifacts, and a collection of East Asian handicrafts. For current exhibitions and opening hours, you can check external resources such as Visit-BW.com.
How can I get to Ettlingen Castle?
Ettlingen Castle is easily accessible. Parking is available for drivers, and a tram line nearby provides convenient public transport options, connecting it well within the region.
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