Schwerin Castle: A Fairy-Tale Fortress, One of Germany’s Most Beautiful Castles
- Jenn & Leon
- Aug 4, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: Dec 26, 2025
Perched on a picturesque island in the heart of Lake Schwerin, the eponymous castle of Schwerin stands as a majestic testament to centuries of history.
Its fairy-tale silhouette dominates the skyline, with numerous turrets piercing the sky with Disney-style vibes.
This is an enchanting place that is well worth a visit if you get the opportunity!
In this post, we take you on a virtual tour of this thousand-year-old landmark, delving into its rich past, architectural beauty, and practical information for your visit.
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From the thrill of discovery to the tranquility of its surroundings, Schwerin Castle is a German gem fit for any bucket list.
Just a week after we visited, it was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, too!
We love exploring castles, and we were really happy to add Schwerin Castle to our growing collection.
Most of our castle adventures have been in the U.K., so to add one from Germany was very well received!
Read on for our highlights, the history of Schwerin Castle, interesting facts, opening times, ticket prices, and more.
In This Post...
Our Schwerin Castle Highlights
The last time we visited Germany was back in 2019, as part of a road trip through Europe.
We were driving back from Budapest in Hungary and took the route through the People's Land, enjoying the limitless speeds of the autobahns on the way to a quick stop-off in the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne.
That was just an overnight stay and not enough to call it a full-on German experience!
So we came back to Germany for a second time, determined to spend a good amount of time here to immerse ourselves in the culture of this fascinating land.
With a 6-week stay in Hamburg, ready to go, we decided to take an overnight trip to Schwerin to kick everything off.
We landed in Hamburg and headed straight for the train station, taking the famous DB Double Decker train for the first time to the state capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
It was a comfortable journey here, and we were excited to come to this city for its main attraction, the castle on the lake.
Needless to say, we were not disappointed! After an early start, we took a walking tour around the city, finishing up at the castle itself.
We had already decided not to go inside, as we were pretty tired by this point and were more interested in the famous gardens and grounds anyway.
Schwerin Castle is most certainly as picturesque and beautiful as people say it is.
After a painstaking renovation, it is now almost fully restored and looks every bit the turreted Disney castle reference that so often accompanies its name.
Along with its exceptional architecture, this castle takes things one step further with some of the most beautifully manicured gardens and grounds we have ever seen.
The flower arrangements, fountains, and statues are brilliantly coordinated and complement the castle and the surrounding lake so well.
The attention to detail here is immaculate, and even on a cloudy day, this place is a feast for the eyes.
It is all too easy to go photo happy here, that's for sure! The gardens are free to walk around, and we spent a good hour enjoying them before deciding to head back.
In hindsight, maybe we should have gone inside; no doubt it would have been just as beautiful, but perhaps that will be a nice surprise bonus for you if you decide to visit!
While the gardens and castle itself were undoubtedly a highlight of our overall visit to Schwerin, we had to add this stoplight in here, too. How cool is this?!
A nice touch to a place where the finer details are just exceptional. What a place!
Read on for the history of Schwerin Castle, some interesting facts, and information on opening times and ticket prices.
The History of Schwerin Castle
The history of Schwerin Castle is as rich and layered as its architectural splendor. Its origins trace back to the 10th century, when a Slavic fortress was established on the island in Lake Schwerin.
This strategic position offered protection and dominance over the surrounding area.
However, the castle’s fortunes changed dramatically in 1160 when Henry the Lion, a powerful German duke, conquered the region.
The Slavic fortress was destroyed, and in its place, a new fort was constructed, marking the beginning of German rule.
Over the centuries, the castle grew in importance, becoming the seat of the Dukes and later the Grand Dukes of Mecklenburg.
It was during the 19th century that the castle underwent its most dramatic transformation.
Under the vision of Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II, renowned architects like Gottfried Semper and Friedrich August Stüler were commissioned to create a masterpiece of Historicism.
This era saw the construction of the castle’s iconic towers, domes, and opulent interiors.
The castle served as the grand ducal residence until the end of World War I, when the monarchy was abolished.
In the tumultuous years that followed, the castle was repurposed several times, serving as a school, a museum, and even a temporary seat of government.
After the reunification of Germany in 1990, extensive restoration work began to restore the castle to its former glory.
Today, it houses the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, while also welcoming visitors to explore its magnificent rooms, gardens, and breathtaking views.
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10 Interesting Facts About Schwerin Castle
1. A Thousand-Year History
Schwerin Castle boasts a history spanning over a millennium. Its origins trace back to a Slavic fortress built in the 10th century.
This deep-rooted past is reflected in the castle's architecture, which blends various styles from different eras.
2. An Island Oasis
Situated on an enchanting island in the middle of Lake Schwerin, the castle offers a truly magical setting.
This idyllic location has inspired countless artists and poets over the centuries, contributing to its romantic allure.
3. A Royal Residence for Centuries
For centuries, Schwerin Castle served as the grand home of the Dukes and Grand Dukes of Mecklenburg.
The castle's opulent interiors and lavish decorations are a testament to its former royal inhabitants.
4. A Castle with 365 Turrets
Legend has it that Schwerin Castle has 365 turrets—one for every day of the year.
While the exact number might be slightly less, the castle's skyline is undeniably dominated by its numerous towers and spires.
5. A Masterpiece of Historicism
The castle's current appearance largely stems from extensive renovations in the 19th century.
It's a prime example of historicism, an architectural style that draws inspiration from various historical periods.
6. A Seat of Power & Culture
Today, Schwerin Castle not only serves as a popular tourist attraction but also houses the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
This unique combination of history and contemporary politics adds another layer of intrigue to the castle.
7. A Treasure Trove of Art
The castle's interior is adorned with countless works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of aristocracy and admire the exquisite craftsmanship.
8. A Harmonious Blend of Nature & Architecture
The castle's beautiful gardens are an integral part of its charm.
Carefully designed to complement the architecture, they offer visitors a peaceful retreat and stunning views of the lake.
9. A Source of Inspiration
Schwerin Castle has been a muse for countless artists and writers.
Its romantic beauty and rich history have captivated imaginations for centuries, inspiring works of art, literature, and music.
10. A Living Piece of History
Schwerin Castle is not just a static monument; it's a living part of Germany's heritage.
The castle continues to evolve, hosting events, exhibitions, and cultural programs that bring its history to life for visitors of all ages.
In July 2024, Schwerin Castle was proudly added to UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites.
Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Best Time to Visit Schwerin Castle
⪢ Ticket Prices
Schwerin Castle is both a museum and the official seat of the Mecklenburg-Vorpommern state parliament, so entry applies only to the museum sections, gardens, and guided tours.
● Adults: €8.50
● Reduced (students/seniors): €6.50
● Children under 18: Free
● Audio Guide (optional): €2
● Photography Permit: €2 (if using DSLR or professional camera)
● Guided Tours: From €10 to €14 depending on duration and theme
Entry to the castle gardens and lakeside grounds is free year-round.
Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance via the official website (available in German and English).
Prices are correct at the time of writing (May 2025). Please check the official website below for the most up-to-date information.
All prices are in euros. Convert your currency here.
⪢ Opening Times
● Museum (Castle Interiors):
Tuesday to Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm (April to October)
10 am to 5 pm (November to March)
Closed Mondays (except on public holidays)
● Castle Gardens & Grounds:
Open daily, dawn to dusk.
Note: Some sections of the palace are closed during government sessions, so check ahead if you're visiting to see specific rooms.
⪢ Best Time to Visit
● Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) offer the best weather and fewer crowds
● July and August are popular with tourists—arrive early for photos and avoid tour group congestion
● Winter (December–February) brings quiet vibes and fairy-tale fog, but the gardens may be less vibrant
● Golden hour by the lake (early morning or late evening) is ideal for photos of the castle’s famous reflection
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How to Get to Schwerin Castle
Schwerin Castle is located on Castle Island (Schlossinsel) in the city of Schwerin, in northern Germany’s Mecklenburg-Vorpommern region.
By Car
Use "Lennéstraße 1, 19053 Schwerin" for GPS directions.
There is public parking near the castle, including a multi-story car park at Schlosspark-Center, just a short walk away.
Car Rental
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By Bus
Schwerin is served by FlixBus from major cities like Berlin, Hamburg, and Lübeck. Once in town, local buses easily connect to the city centre and the castle area.
By Train
From Berlin, Hamburg, or Rostock, take a Deutsche Bahn regional or IC train to Schwerin Hauptbahnhof (central station).
● From Hamburg: 1.5 hours
● From Berlin: 2.5–3 hours
● From Rostock: 1 hour
From the train station, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk to the castle, or you can hop on a local bus or tram to the Schloss Schwerin stop.
⪢ Consider Taking a Private Tour
Walk on the Castle bridge and visit the Schwerin Castle, built on a small island in Lake Schwerin. Visit the beautiful Schwerin Cathedral and see its tower, which is 117.5 meters high.
⪢ Contact Information for Schwerin Castle
● Address: Lennéstraße 1, 19053 Schwerin
● Phone: (+49) 385 588 41572
● Website: mv-schloesser.de
⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Schwerin and Beyond
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Schwerin hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Tips for Visiting Schwerin Castle
● Arrive early for the best photos: Schwerin Castle is known for its storybook reflection in the lake, which is best captured in the early morning light or near sunset when crowds thin and the water is still.
● Check for room closures: Since the castle is partially used by the state parliament, some rooms may be off-limits. Visit the official site in advance to check for any partial closures or restricted access.
● Take the audio guide: The interior exhibits are in German, but an audio guide in English is available for a small fee and adds context to the art, royal rooms, and architecture.
● Don’t miss the gardens and island views: The Schlossgarten (castle garden) and surrounding island pathways offer stunning views of the castle, fountains, and sculptures. Entry is free—bring comfortable shoes and allow time to explore.
● Photography permit if using a DSLR: If you plan to use a professional camera, you’ll need a photography permit for €2. Casual phone photography is free and widely permitted.
● Visit the café: There’s a charming café on the castle grounds—great for a slice of cake or a warm drink overlooking the gardens. Perfect for a mid-visit break.
● Safeguard Your Trip with SafetyWing: For peace of mind abroad, we recommend travel insurance.
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Our Experience Rating:
Schwerin Castle
Even though we did not go inside, we are still rating Schwerin Castle 5 stars, as its grounds and gardens are stunning.
The attention to detail here is mesmerizing, and it is a fantastic place to walk around, even if you do not go inside. The best part is that it is free to do so, and this makes it well worth checking out.
Schwerin itself is a pretty town, but there is not a great deal to do there, other than visiting its fairy-tale castle and checking out the town center.
If you are thinking about coming, we would recommend planning a day trip out, but maybe staying the night is not worth it.
You can see pretty much everything within a couple of hours, and there is not much going on in the evenings.
We hope you do stop by, though; this castle and its gardens are a real treat!
FAQ: Schwerin Castle—Germany’s Romantic Island Palace
Where is Schwerin Castle located?
Schwerin Castle is located in Schwerin, northern Germany, in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.
It sits on an island in Lake Schwerin, surrounded by water and gardens—just a short walk from the city center.
Why is Schwerin Castle famous?
Often called “Germany’s fairy-tale castle,” it’s renowned for its romantic turrets, lavish interiors, and lakeside setting.
It served as the residence of the Dukes of Mecklenburg for centuries and now houses the state parliament.
Can you go inside the castle?
Yes! The Schwerin Castle Museum allows visitors to explore:
● Sumptuously decorated palace rooms
● Art and historical exhibits
● Guided tours available in English and German
Some areas are off-limits due to their role as a government building.
What are the opening hours and ticket prices?
● Typically open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm (closed Mondays)
● Admission is around €8–10, with discounts for students and children
● Separate tickets may apply for the museum vs. the gardens
Are the castle grounds free to explore?
Yes. The castle gardens and lakeside park are open to the public and free to enjoy—perfect for a stroll, picnic, or photography.
Is Schwerin Castle suitable for families?
Yes! Children will enjoy the storybook architecture, gardens, and occasional seasonal events. Family tickets and interactive displays are often available.
How do I get to Schwerin Castle?
By train, Schwerin is 1.5–2 hours from Hamburg or Berlin
From the station, it’s a 15-minute walk or short tram ride
Parking is available nearby for drivers.
Is the castle accessible to people with mobility issues?
Parts of the castle and museum are wheelchair accessible, though some older sections may involve stairs or narrow passages. The grounds are mostly flat and walkable.
Can I take photos inside?
Photography is allowed in most areas for personal use—just avoid flash. Some rooms may be restricted or require a photo pass.
Is Schwerin Castle worth visiting?
Absolutely. With its fairy-tale charm, fascinating history, and lakeside location, Schwerin Castle is one of Germany’s most magical hidden gems—ideal for history lovers, architecture fans, and romantics alike.
Such a magical place. Even if you do not go inside, you won't be disappointed.