We’ve delved into extensive research and had a blast exploring the enchanting world of castles. As a result, we’ve compiled a lengthy catalog showcasing Austria’s most magnificent castles and palaces.
In Austria, you’ll find an incredible diversity in age, style, size, and purpose of these structures. From formidable fortifications to opulent vacation palaces, the country’s rulers, monarchs, nobility, and merchants have constructed awe-inspiring residences over the centuries.
1. Ambras Castle
Among Tyrol’s top tourist attractions, Ambras Castle stands tall. This Renaissance marvel was built in the 16th century upon the foundations of a 10th-century castle, which once served as the seat of power for the Counts of Andechs. Archduke Ferdinand II, son of Emperor Ferdinand I, commissioned two Italian architects to transform the existing medieval fortress into a Renaissance castle for his secret wife, Philippine Welser. Throughout the years, the castle has been meticulously preserved and, in 1919, it became the property of the Republic of Austria after the dissolution of the Austria-Hungary Empire. Nowadays, the castle acts as a museum, showcasing a remarkable collection of vintage art and paintings.
About Ambras Castle:
Location: Tyrol, Austria
Erected in: 16th century
Architect: Archduke Ferdinand II
Architectural style: Renaissance
Current function: Museum / Tourist attraction / Open to the public
Current owner: Republic of Austria
2. Artstetten Castle
Situated in Artstetten-Pöbring, Austria, the original Artstetten Castle was constructed in the 13th century, later transformed into a castle. Archduke Carl Ludwig, brother of Emperor Franz I, extensively redesigned the castle. In 1823, the castle came into the possession of Duke Otto I of Wittelsbach, who expanded the property. In 1889, Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria acquired the castle and underwent another extensive renovation. The castle became his final resting place alongside his morganatic wife, Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg, who was tragically assassinated in 1914. Presently, the castle remains the private property of the Hohenberg family.
About Artstetten Castle:
Location: Artstetten-Pöbring, Austria
Erected in: 13th century / Renovated by Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria
Architectural style: Renaissance / Historicist
Current function: Privately owned
Current owner: Hohenberg family
3. Belvedere Palace
A historic architectural complex designed by Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt, the Belvedere Palace graces Vienna, Austria. It was commissioned by the brilliant military strategist Prince Eugene of Savoy, who famously defeated the Turks in 1718. The Belvedere consists of two splendid Baroque palaces: the Lower Belvedere and the Orangery. These structures served as Prince Eugene of Savoy’s summer residence.
About Belvedere Palace:
Location: Vienna, Austria
Erected in: 1718
Architect: Prince Eugene of Savoy
Architectural style: Baroque
Current function: Belvedere Museum
Current owner: Austrian Government
4. Castle Burghausen
Nestled in Burghausen, Upper Bavaria, Castle Burghausen holds the prestigious title of the world’s longest castle complex, as confirmed by the Guinness World Records. The castle’s origins can be traced back to the 11th century, and it was initially the residence of the Wittelsbachs. Later, it came under the ownership of Duke Otto I of Wittelsbach, who expanded the property. Over the centuries, numerous royalties sought refuge within its walls, withstanding the trials of numerous wars.
About Castle Burghausen:
Location: Burghausen, Austria
Erected in: 11th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Gothic
Current function: Tourist attraction / Open to the public
Current owner: Austrian Government
5. Old Castle (Stuttgart)
The Old Castle, also known as Altes Schloss, originally served as a water castle established in the 10th century to protect the stud garden, which bestowed its name upon Stuttgart. It was the residence of the Counts and later the Dukes of Württemberg. Over time, the castle endured significant damage and underwent renovation in 1971 by Paul Schmitthenner, resulting in its magnificent Renaissance appearance. Presently, the castle houses a historical museum.
About the Old Castle (Stuttgart):
Location: Stuttgart, Germany
Erected in: 10th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval / Renaissance
Current function: Historical Museum
Current owner: Austrian Government
6. Castle Niederweiden
Located in Engelhartstetten in Marchfeld, Castle Niederweiden stands as a splendid baroque palace. Originally built in 1693-1694 by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach for Ernst Rüdiger von Starhemberg under the name Jagdschloss Engelhartstetten, it later came into the possession of Prince Eugene of Savoy in 1725. Under Maria Theresa’s rule in the mid-18th century, significant changes were made to the palace by the court’s head architect, Nikolaus von Picassi. After Maria Theresa’s passing, Niederweiden’s grandeur declined, and it eventually became state-owned. Today, Schloss Niederweiden serves as a permanent exhibition venue.
About Castle Niederweiden:
Location: Engelhartstetten, Austria
Erected in: 1693-1694
Architect: Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach for Ernst Rüdiger von Starhemberg
Architectural style: Baroque
Current function: Exhibition venue / Open to the public
Current owner: Austrian Government
7. Castle Esterhazy
Situated in Eisenstadt, Austria, the capital of Burgenland, Schloss Esterházy dates back to the late 13th century. In 1622, it came into the possession of the Hungarian Esterházy family. The Gothic-style castle underwent transformation into a Baroque palace under the ownership of Paul I, Prince Esterházy in the 17th century, serving as the noble family’s main residence and administrative center. To this day, the Esterházy family owns the castle and allows public access.
About Castle Esterhazy:
Location: Eisenstadt, Austria
Erected in: 13th century / Reconstructed in the 17th century
Builder: Unknown / Reconstructed by Paul I, Prince Esterházy
Architectural style: Gothic / Baroque
Current function: Open to the public
Current owner: Esterházy Foundation
8. Eggenberg Castle
Originally a medieval palace, Eggenberg Palace in Graz was transformed into a magnificent Baroque residence in 1625. Commissioned by Hans Ulrich von Eggenberg, the former Governor of Inner Austria and Imperial Prince, the palace boasts a rich history spanning centuries. Its grandeur has earned it the title of the most significant Baroque palace complex in Styria. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.
About Eggenberg Castle:
Location: Graz, Austria
Erected in: 15th century
Builder: Reconstructed by Hans Ulrich von Eggenberg
Architectural style: Gothic / Baroque
Current function: UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site / City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg
Current owner: The State of Styria
9. Gmunden Schloss or Schloss Ort
Situated in the picturesque Traunsee lake in Gmunden, Schloss Ort was established around 1080 by Hartnidus of Ort and underwent notable enhancements throughout the 13th century under Hartnidus V. In 1344, the castle came into the possession of Friedrich and Reinprecht I of Wallsee. Later, in 1483, Schloss Ort was gifted to Frederick III, Holy Roman Emperor. Currently, the castle serves as a study center for the Federal Ministry for Land and Forestry.
About Schloss Ort:
Location: Gmunden, Austria
Erected in: 11th century
Builder: Hartnidus of Ort
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Study center of the Federal Ministry for Land and Forestry
Current owner: Municipality of Gmunden
10. Grafenegg Castle
Grafenegg Castle stands as a magnificent testament to Gothic, Baroque, Biedermeier, and Neo-gothic styles. This Austrian gem not only impresses as a world-class castle but also holds the distinction of being the most significant castle complex in Austria representing Romantic historicism. It was once owned by the Duke of Ratibor, Prince of Corvey from the House of Hohenlohe.
About Grafenegg Castle:
Location: Grafenegg, Austria
Erected in: Unclear
Builder: Unclear
Architectural style: A mix of Gothic, Baroque, Biedermeier, and Neo-gothic styles
Current function: International festival venue / Open to the public / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Municipality of Grafenegg
11. Hardegg Castle
Hardegg Castle, affectionately known as Burg Hardegg, dates back to the 12th century and has passed through the hands of various noble families over the centuries. In the 19th century, Prince Johann Carl Khevenhüller-Metsch reconstructed the castle and added his family crypt. Today, the castle welcomes the public for free exploration.
About Hardegg Castle:
Location: Hardegg, Austria
Erected in: 12th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Open to the public
Current owner: Town of Hardegg
12. Hellbrunn Palace
Hellbrunn Palace is an early Baroque villa built between 1613 and 1619 by Markus Sittikus von Hohenems, the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg. Located in Salzburg, Austria, the palace served as the Prince-Archbishop’s summer residence, as he returned to Salzburg in the evenings, resulting in the absence of bedrooms within the palace. Nowadays, the palace houses the ethnographic section of the Carolina Augusteum Museum of Salzburg.
About Hellbrunn Palace:
Location: Salzburg, Austria
Erected in: 1613-1619
Builder: Markus Sittikus von Hohenems
Architectural style: Baroque
Current function: House of the ethnographic section of the Carolina Augusteum Museum of Salzburg
Current owner: City of Salzburg
13. Hochosterwitz Castle
Hochosterwitz Castle stands as one of Austria’s most impressive medieval fortresses. Located in Sankt Georgen, Carinthia, it is believed to have been founded in the 9th century. An ancient deed discovered revealed that Louis the German, King of East Francia, donated several properties in the former principality of Carantania to the Archdiocese of Salzburg. The castle remained under the possession of the Archdiocese of Salzburg until Archbishop Gebhard of Salzburg ceded it in the 11th century. Throughout the following centuries, the castle changed hands among various noble families, and it is currently owned by the Khevenhüller noble family.
About Hochosterwitz Castle:
Location: Carinthia, Austria
Erected in: 9th century
Builder: Osterwitz dynasty
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Open to the public
Current owner: Khevenhüller noble family
14. Hofburg Palace
Vienna’s Hofburg Palace served as the seat of the Habsburgs, Austria’s ruling family for centuries until the end of World War I. This immense palace complex boasts architectural styles ranging from Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque to Rococo. The Royal Chapel, built in the 13th century, is the oldest section of the palace. Currently, the Hofburg is the official residence of the Austrian Head of State, the Federal President.
About Hofburg Palace:
Location: Vienna, Austria
Erected in: 13th century
Builder: Dukes of Austria
Architectural style: Gothic / Renaissance / Baroque / Rococo
Current function: Official seat of the Austrian Head of State, the Federal President
Current owner: Austrian Republic
15. Hohensalzburg Fortress
Among Europe’s largest medieval castles, Hohensalzburg Fortress stands proudly. Built in the 11th century at the behest of the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg to safeguard their interests, the fortress underwent modifications and expansions in subsequent centuries. It remained under the possession of the Archbishops of Salzburg until the Napoleonic War of the Second Coalition in 1800, when it was surrendered to French troops. Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and one of Europe’s best-preserved castles.
About Hohensalzburg Fortress:
Location: Salzburg, Austria
Erected in: 11th century
Builder: Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Tourist attraction
Current owner: State of Salzburg
16. Hohenwerfen Castle
Hohenwerfen Castle, often referred to as the sister of Hohensalzburg Fortress, was also constructed by the Archbishops of Salzburg in the 11th century. Together with Hohensalzburg, it remained under the possession of the Archbishops of Salzburg for an extended period. In 1938, Archduke Eugen of Austria sold the castle to the Salzburg Reichsgau administration. Today, the estate is owned by the state of Salzburg and serves as a museum and tourist attraction.
About Hohenwerfen Castle:
Location: Salzburg, Austria
Erected in: 11th century
Builder: Archbishops of Salzburg
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Tourist attraction / Museum
Current owner: State of Salzburg
17. Schloss Eckartsau
Constructed around 1720, Schloss Eckartsau began as a moated castle in the 12th century and was purchased by Franz Ferdinand Count Kinsky in the 18th century. Count Kinsky rebuilt the castle into its current form, following the Neo-Baroque architectural style designed by Joseph Emanuel Fischer von Erlach. Throughout its existence, the castle has changed hands among many nobles, with Emperor Charles I making it his residence. Presently, Schloss Eckartsau serves as the headquarters of the Donau-Auen National Park and is open to the public.
About Schloss Eckartsau:
Location: Eckartsau, Austria
Erected in: 1720
Builder: Franz Ferdinand Count Kinsky
Architectural style: Neo-Baroque
Current function: Headquarters of the Donau-Auen National Park
Current owner: Republic of Austria
18. Kaiservilla
Originally a Biedermeier villa owned by Viennese notary Josef August Eltz, the Kaiservilla in Bad Ischl found its way into the hands of Dr. Eduard Mastalier in 1850. Princess Sophie of Bavaria, Franz Joseph’s mother, purchased the villa as an engagement gift for Franz Joseph and Princess Elisabeth of Bavaria in 1853. Despite Princess Elisabeth’s dislike for both the villa and her mother-in-law, she spent time there, and eventually, Emperor Franz Joseph claimed it as his permanent summer residence. Currently, the mansion serves as the official residence of Archduke Markus Emanuel Salvator, their great-grandson.
About the Kaiservilla:
Location: Bad Ischl, Austria
Erected in: Unknown
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Neoclassical
Current function: Residence of Archduke Markus Emanuel Salvator
Current owner: Archduke Markus Emanuel Salvator
19. Kreuzenstein Castle
Kreuzenstein Castle, known as Burg Kreuzenstein locally, is situated in Stockerau and was initially built in the 12th century by the Counts of Formbach. Through marriages, the castle eventually came into the possession of the Counts of Wasserburg and later the Habsburgs in 1278. During the 30 Years’ War, the castle was conquered and partially destroyed by Swedish Field Marshal Lennart Torstensson. It was later reconstructed by the Counts of Wilczek, who blended old and new medieval architectural styles. Today, Kreuzenstein Castle serves as a museum and popular tourist attraction, owned by Johan-Christian Count Wilczek.
About Kreuzenstein Castle:
Location: Stockerau, Austria
Erected in: 12th century / Reconstructed in the 19th century
Builder: Count Johann Nepomuk Wilczek
Architectural style: Neo-medieval
Current function: Museum / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Johan-Christian Count Wilczek
20. Landeck Castle
Landeck Castle, built in the 13th century by the Counts of Tyrol, served as a court and administrative site. During the 16th century, it was jointly administered by the Kurpfalz, the Bishop of Speyer, and the Counts of Zweibrücken. The Kurpfalz eventually became the sole owner of the castle until the French Revolution. In the 20th century, Landeck Castle was renovated and transformed into a popular event location and regional museum, continuing to serve the people of Landeck today.
About Landeck Castle:
Location: Landeck, Austria
Erected in: 13th century
Builder: Counts of Tyrol
Architectural style: Gothic
Current function: Regional museum / Events location
Current owner: State of Tyrol
21. Laxenburg Castle
Laxenburg Castle, located in Laxenburg, Austria, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Over the centuries, it served as a hunting lodge, summer residence, and imperial palace for various Austrian rulers. The castle underwent extensive renovations and expansions under Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth, commonly known as Sisi. Its beautiful gardens and parklands are renowned for their scenic beauty and are open to the public for leisurely strolls and picnics.
About Laxenburg Castle:
Location: Laxenburg, Austria
Erected in: 12th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Various styles (reflecting different historical periods)
Current function: Tourist attraction / Open to the public
Current owner: Austrian Government
22. Liechtenstein Castle
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Wachau Valley, Liechtenstein Castle stands as an enchanting medieval fortress. Built in the 12th century, it was originally intended as a strategic stronghold to protect the surrounding lands. Throughout its existence, the castle has been reconstructed and expanded multiple times. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and medieval architecture.
About Liechtenstein Castle:
Location: Wachau Valley, Austria
Erected in: 12th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Museum / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Austrian Government
23. Melk Abbey
Perched high on a rocky outcrop above the Danube River, Melk Abbey is a magnificent Benedictine abbey with a history dating back over 900 years. The abbey’s iconic yellow facade and imposing Baroque architecture make it a true masterpiece. It houses a vast library, a breathtaking church, and beautifully manicured gardens. Melk Abbey continues to be an active monastery and also welcomes visitors from around the world.
About Melk Abbey:
Location: Melk, Austria
Erected in: Over 900 years ago
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Baroque
Current function: Monastery / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Benedictine monks
24. Mirabell Palace
Mirabell Palace, located in Salzburg, Austria, is a true gem of Baroque architecture. Built in the 17th century, it served as a palace for the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg. The palace and its stunning gardens are famous for their elegance and beauty. The gardens feature geometrically designed flower beds, statues, and fountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors. Mirabell Palace is also renowned for its Marble Hall, which hosts concerts and other cultural events.
About Mirabell Palace:
Location: Salzburg, Austria
Erected in: 17th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Baroque
Current function: Tourist attraction / Cultural venue
Current owner: City of Salzburg
25. Mauterndorf Castle
Mauterndorf Castle, situated in the Lungau region of Austria, is a well-preserved medieval castle. Built in the 13th century, it served as a fortress and residence for various noble families throughout history. Today, the castle is open to the public and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its medieval chambers, admire its architectural details, and learn about its intriguing past.
About Mauterndorf Castle:
Location: Lungau, Austria
Erected in: 13th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Tourist attraction / Open to the public
Current owner: Austrian Government
26. Riegersburg Castle
Perched on a volcanic hilltop in Styria, Riegersburg Castle is an imposing fortress with a history dating back to the 11th century. The castle boasts a striking appearance with its defensive walls and towers. It is known for its impressive collection of medieval weaponry and armor. Visitors can explore the castle’s various chambers, enjoy panoramic views from the towers, and learn about the castle’s fascinating legends and stories.
About Riegersburg Castle:
Location: Styria, Austria
Erected in: 11th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Museum / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Austrian Government
27. Rosenburg Castle
Rosenburg Castle, located in Lower Austria, is a stunning Renaissance castle that has stood proudly since the 12th century. It underwent significant renovations during the Renaissance period, resulting in its current grandeur. The castle features beautifully decorated halls, a remarkable armory, and a falconry center where visitors can witness majestic birds of prey in action. Rosenburg Castle offers a captivating glimpse into the past and is a popular destination for history enthusiasts.
About Rosenburg Castle:
Location: Lower Austria, Austria
Erected in: 12th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Renaissance
Current function: Museum / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Austrian Government
28. Riegersburg Castle
Perched on a volcanic hilltop in Styria, Riegersburg Castle is an imposing fortress with a history dating back to the 11th century. The castle boasts a striking appearance with its defensive walls and towers. It is known for its impressive collection of medieval weaponry and armor. Visitors can explore the castle’s various chambers, enjoy panoramic views from the towers, and learn about the castle’s fascinating legends and stories.
About Riegersburg Castle:
Location: Styria, Austria
Erected in: 11th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Medieval
Current function: Museum / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Austrian Government
29. Rosenburg Castle
Rosenburg Castle, located in Lower Austria, is a stunning Renaissance castle that has stood proudly since the 12th century. It underwent significant renovations during the Renaissance period, resulting in its current grandeur. The castle features beautifully decorated halls, a remarkable armory, and a falconry center where visitors can witness majestic birds of prey in action. Rosenburg Castle offers a captivating glimpse into the past and is a popular destination for history enthusiasts.
About Rosenburg Castle:
Location: Lower Austria, Austria
Erected in: 12th century
Builder: Unknown
Architectural style: Renaissance
Current function: Museum / Tourist attraction
Current owner: Austrian Government
30. Seegrotte Hinterbrühl
Seegrotte Hinterbrühl is an intriguing underground attraction situated in the Hinterbrühl municipality of Austria. It was formed in the early 20th century when a former gypsum mine was flooded. The resulting underground lake is now a captivating tourist destination, offering boat tours that showcase the enchanting natural beauty of the caverns. Visitors can explore the illuminated chambers and learn about the mine’s history.
About Seegrotte Hinterbrühl:
Location: Hinterbrühl, Austria
Erected in: Early 20th century (as a result of flooding in a gypsum mine)
Builder: N/A (natural formation)
Architectural style: N/A (natural formation)
Current function: Tourist attraction / Boat tours
Current owner: Austrian Government