Over a hundred castles are spread across the country, and as a girl raised in Luxembourg, they were my magical childhood fantasies brought to life.
When visiting the castles in Luxembourg, you’ll stumble upon their stunning landscapes, which are genuinely magnificent because of their impressive style and architecture.
While some parts have already crumbled, their fairytale-like allure and grandeur remain. They inspired many to travel Luxembourg.
They are beautiful reminders of the Grand Duchy as a fortress city of nine centuries and, thus, called the “Gibraltar of the North.”
Let me take you on a surreal travel experience at the heart of Europe. Here are the most beautiful castles in Luxembourg!
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Table of Contents
1. Vianden Castle
Sitting atop the Ardennes overlooking the Our Valley, visiting Vianden Castle is a must when in Luxembourg.
The surrounding greenery and picturesque landscape, as seen in films and many fictional works, add to its fairytale-like allure.
Vianden Castle’s history dates back to the 11th and 14th centuries when it became a royal residence of the Counts of Vianden, who were related to the French royal family.
One of the largest castles in Luxembourg, Vianden Castle was then owned by the House of Orange-Nassau in 1417 until the French Revolution.
In 1977, the state owned the castle and transformed it into a museum.
Now, Vianden Castle holds medieval festivals, music concerts, workshops for children, and sometimes an inclusion to your Christmas Markets in Luxembourg.
Book Vianden Castle tickets here
2. Bourscheid Castle
Looking out the Sûre River, Bourscheid Castle strategically stands atop a rocky promontory.
To reach the castle, you must traverse a steep mountain road and climb 150 meters above the ground.
As one of the best castles in Luxembourg and the largest, Bourscheid Castle is beautifully lit at night and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Bourscheid Castle was constructed in the 10th century, but the fortress wall with six Gothic towers was only added in the 14th and 15th centuries.
The castle’s imposing fortifications are triangular and enclosed by a circular wall with 11 towers.
I also stopped by from the castle to admire the nearby Stolzembourg House, a former Gothic manor house in 1348.
If you want to explore the area further, consider staying at Cocoon Hotel La Rive along the banks of Sauer River, offering magnificent views of Bourscheid Castle.
Book Bourscheid accommodation here
3. Larochette Castle: Picturesque Castle in Mullerthal
Nestled amidst lush greenery, Larochette Castle’s romantic ruins dominate the promontory atop the White Ernz Valley in the Mullerthal region.
Larochette Castle was constructed at the end of the 11th century but was engulfed in flames in 1565.
Before its destruction, several noble families lived in the castle, including Homburg, Créhange (or Criechingen in German), Pittingen, Fels and Fels-Reuland families.
It was then used as a quarry but was restored and rebuilt as a museum between 1983 and 1987.
As one of the enchanting castles near Luxembourg, the legend says that the ghost of a provost transforms into a dragon.
You can visit nearby attractions such as Mullerthal Trail, known as Luxembourg’s Little Switzerland, among the places to see and things to do in Mullerthal.
My favorite old town, Larochette, is also a must because of its old streets and historic monuments.
4. Beaufort Castle: Medieval and Renaissance Castle
Another stunning castle in the Mullerthal region is the Beaufort, home to a medieval and a Renaissance castle. Its rich history and magnificent architecture make it one of the best castles in Europe.
The first one to be built was the medieval Castle between 1050 and 1650. However, it was destroyed during the Thirty Year War and became a quarry in the 19th century.
Meanwhile, the Renaissance Castle began in the 17th century with elegant courtyards and gardens by the chateau’s idyllic lake.
Its most impressive feature is the underground tunnel used as a secret passage during the war.
Join a guided tour to learn more about Beaufort Castle’s history and legends, or since this is the nearest castle to Echternach, add this to your things to do in Echternach as a day trip.
5. Clervaux Castle: Cultural and Historical Center
Perched above the city, Clervaux Castle is famous for its iconic Renaissance façade and picturesque location in the Ardennes.
Built in the 12th century, Clervaux Castle should be on your list of must-visit castles when exploring Luxembourg City.
I admired its spectacular white-washed walls, which make the castle stand out among the rest. But perhaps what makes it interesting is that it is a cultural and historical center, housing museums and exhibitions.
Inside the castle, you’ll find the UNESCO heritage-listed Edward Steichen’s The Family of Man, with over 503 photographs from 723 artists worldwide.
You can also visit the Museum of the Ardennes Counteroffensive and the Museum of Models of the Castles and Palaces of Luxembourg.
Book Luxembourg City tours here
6. Esch-sur-Sûre Castle: Romanesque Castle in Luxembourg
Joining the array of scenic castles in Luxembourg, the Esch-sur-Sûre Castle is situated in a commanding position overlooking the Sûre River.
Now a ruin, the origins of Esch-sur-Sûre Castle date back to 774. But it was only in 927 when Maingaud and his wife Hiletrude from the Abbey in Stavelot established a fortified castle.
By the end of the 11th century, Lords of Esch an der Sauer and brothers Heinrich I and Godfrid I continued the fortifications.
In the 13th century, the castle was renovated in Gothic style by the last two lords in the line of Counts of Esch-sur-Sûre.
Because of the spread of gunpowder, a wall with two towers was constructed around the village alongside a Lochturm watchtower in the 15th century.
Esch-sur-Sûre Castle began to decline in the middle of the 16th century and remained so until the end of the 17th century when the French troops of King Louis XIV took the city’s fortress.
Aside from visiting the palace, you can also explore the charming village of Esch-sur-Sûre and nearby nature trails.
7. Useldange Castle: Medieval Castle in Luxembourg
Up next is Useldange Castle, a 12th-century castle with well-preserved medieval architecture tucked in tranquil surroundings.
The Lordship of Useldange was founded in 1100 under Theobald of Useldange and his wife Azeka and lasted until 1250. In 1415, John of Rodemacher took possession after marrying Irmgart of Boulay.
Useldange Castle didn’t survive long due to the war intrigues between France and Burgundy, the Rodemachers. The chapel was later demolished, and it was only in 1924 that the castle underwent renovations.
What makes it unique? It has a UNESCO-sponsored discovery trail for partially-sighted visitors to learn more about the castle’s history by merely touching and hearing.
Inside, you’ll find the original chapel and a cemetery. I also recommend visiting the castle’s museum and attending on-site cultural events.
8. Ansembourg Castle: A Noble Residence
Perched atop a quaint village, Ansembourg Castle is a privately owned palace with public gardens where you can roam.
Thomas Bidart constructed the castle as House Forges in the first half of the 17th century and underwent a major renovation in the 18th century.
Ansembourg Castle features elegant Baroque architecture and beautiful gardens still preserved today. Inside, you’ll find life-sized statues and grand staircases.
It serves as a noble residence and home to the current Count and Countess of Ansembourg. It is also a cultural landmark with seasonal festivals and exhibitions throughout the year.
9. Hollenfels Castle
Set amidst the rolling hills of the Mamer Valley, Hollenfels Castle is part of the Valley of the Seven Castles alongside Mersch, Schoenfels, Ansembourg, New Ansembourg, Septfontaines, and Koerich.
According to historical accounts, several noble families, such as Ansemburg, Greifenklau, and Salm, shared Hollenfels Castle.
Later, in 1681, the French troops took over. Luxembourg architect J. Schoenberg started renovating the castle when it fell into ruin in 1929.
Now, Hollenfels Castle is owned by the state. I suggest taking a guided tour to learn about the castle’s history and restoration efforts.
10. Septfontaines Castle
Just above a small village in the valley of the Eisch stream, Septfontaines Castle is famous for its neoclassical architecture. It is set amidst romantic parkland, where cultural events are held on-site.
In 1233, Johann von Simmern took over the possession of the Septfontaines Castle and the village. Around 1600, Christoph von Criechingen built a massive Renaissance tower.
Septfontaines Castle is part of the Valley of the Seven Castles tour alongside castles in Hollenfels and Ansembourg.
While the castle is privately owned, you can visit the castle’s gardens and attend cultural events.
My Final thoughts on Castles in Luxembourg
Indeed, Luxembourg has branded itself as the land of castles.
How many castles are in Luxembourg? More than a hundred, and each offers a unique history and a contribution to the vibrant culture in Europe.
Embark on your castle exploration adventure and discover the magic of Luxembourg’s architectural treasures.
Venture to Bourscheid Castle, the largest and one of Grand Duchy’s best castles.
If you wish to see more preserved medieval architecture, visit Useldange Castle or check out the Valley of the Seven Castles, which includes the Hollenfels Castle, on your day trips from Luxembourg.
For more information on where to stay in Luxembourg, refer to our guide on where to stay in Luxembourg City and Berdorf camping guide.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
