The Longest Castle – Burghausen Germany

Burghausen Castle tourist guide

The longest castle, Burghausen Germany, a place where time stands still, where stones remember past centuries and where every drop of dew on the walls whispers stories from the past. On the very border of Bavaria, hidden among the hills and shrouded in fog, lies Burg Burghausen—the longest castle in the world. Its imposing 1,051-meter walls preserve memories of past centuries, when knights bravely defended their kingdoms. As you walk through the courtyards and corridors, you will feel the spirit of the past, the magic that beckons all generations.

Panoramic view of Burg Burghausen illuminated at night.
Magnificent Castle Burghausen, the longest castle in the world located under the twilight sky.

Is Burghausen worth visiting?

When visiting Burg Burghausen with the family, the castle itself is more than just a historical monument – it is an invitation to adventure. From exploring the hidden corners of the museum to enjoying the magnificent view of the Salzach River, Burg Burghausen offers an experience to remember for a lifetime. Come, discover the secrets of the longest castle in the world and take with you memories that you will recount for generations.

While enjoying the panorama, you feel the peace and tranquility of the nature that surrounds the castle. Isn’t it the perfect place to escape from everyday life and enjoy the moment?

The construction of this magnificent building began in 1025, and through the centuries it expanded, becoming a symbol of power and resilience. A visit to Burg Burghausen is like a magical journey through time. In every corner, a new story awaits you, a new secret that awakens your imagination. From the very first step inside the walls, you are overwhelmed by a feeling of safety and tranquility. It’s as if you’ve found a refuge from everyday life, a place where time flows differently. Narrow, winding streets lead you to sumptuous courtyards, where every stone, every corner hides a fragment of the past and tells its own story, from sumptuous halls to hidden dungeons. The view from the top of the tower leaves you breathless. In front of you lies a beautiful landscape: rolling green hills and the blue ribbon of the Salzach River, gently gliding through the valley.

Make your next destination a place where history and magic meet – Burghausen Castle.

Historic stone walls and towers of Burghausen Castle at sunset in Bavaria, Germany
Dramatic sunset over Burghausen Castle

How to get from Munich to Burghausen?

Burghausen is easily accessible by various means of transport.

  • By car:

If you start from Munich, the distance is approximately 100 kilometers, and the drive takes about an hour and a half. The fastest route is via the A94 and the B12, which takes you directly to Burghausen. The journey is simple and pleasant, you pass through picturesque villages and fields that reflect the true spirit of Bavaria.

When you arrive in Burghausen, follow the signs for Burg Burghausen. The Curaplatz car park (Curaplatz, 84489 Burghausen) is available near the castle entrance. There are 90 parking spaces in the parking lot. This parking lot is not intended for tourist buses, but passengers can be brought to this parking lot and left there. Buses can be parked at the Messegelände (fairground) or at the parking lot of the Finanzamt (Tittmoningerstr.)

There are several parking spaces in the city. If you want additional advice, park in the city center and enjoy a walk through the narrow, cobbled streets that lead you to the castle.

Here is the exact address of the castle for navigation: Burg 48, 84489 Burghausen.

  • By train:

Start your journey from Munich. The DB regional train runs regularly and takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Bavaria. From the main train station in Munich, you take the regional train RB40, which travels to the city of Mühldorf. There you change to the regional train RB 42 which takes you to Burghausen, the main train station. You can continue your journey to the castle by Bus no. 1 or walk through the city towards the castle.

The ticket price per person is 33 euros (the ticket price is variable) in one direction. The trip takes about 2 hours.

And then, my dear friend, the real adventure begins. It takes about 20-30 minutes to walk from the train station to the castle through the charming old town of Burghausen. The smell of fresh pastries from local bakeries will beckon you from every side, and the cobbled streets will tell you the stories of old artisans and merchants.

Couple with dog enjoying a romantic moment on a viewing platform at Burghausen Castle in Bavaria, Germany
A romantic moment at the observation deck of Burghausen Castle
  • By bike:

If you are a fan of cycling, Burghausen is accessible via several cycle paths that pass through the beautiful landscapes of Bavaria. This bicycle adventure allows you to enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of the region, with the castle appearing on the horizon as a reward for your efforts. For all cycling enthusiasts, the city of Burghausen has provided 11 free storage lockers right next to the main entrance of the City Hall.

The best things to do in Burghausen

As you approach Burg Burghausen, the first thing you notice are the imposing walls that stretch for over a thousand meters, making it the longest castle in the world. This monumental complex offers a wealth of content and activities that will fascinate you. Here’s how to make the most of your time in this historic fortress.

Explore the Walls and Towers

The beginning of your adventure will begin with a walk along the massive walls. Walking along the paths once used by the guards, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the Salzach River valley. The castle towers, with their tall, imposing outlines, provide perfect sightseeing spots. Each tower has its own story, its own view and its own secret. Climbing to the top of one of the towers will open up a spectacular view that stretches forever.

Burghausen-Castle-Walls
Summing up opinions from the walls of Burghausen Castle
Burghausen-Castle-Walls
How far does the view reach from the walls of Burghausen Castle?

Visit the Museum

Burg Burghausen is not only an architectural gem, but also home to several museums. The Castle Museum (Burgmuseum) is housed in the main building and offers a rich collection of medieval weapons, armour, art and artefacts. Start your visit here to get an insight into life in the castle through the ages. Next, explore the Museum of Photography (Haus der Fotografie), which offers fascinating exhibitions and retrospectives.

Burghausen The longest castle Walls
Burghausen Castle Walls

A walk around the Castle

Enjoy a free walk through the spacious courtyard complexes. The castles are divided into six main parts, and each part has its own unique charm. The oldest part of the castle, the so-called The Inner Burg preserves traces of the earliest fortifications and has the most historical buildings. Feel the atmosphere of the past while walking along these ancient stone paths.

wo elderly women sitting on a bench enjoying a peaceful moment outdoors
A walk around the castle and places for pleasant conversations

Participate in Events

Burg Burghausen regularly organizes various cultural and historical events. Check the calendar of events before your visit to take advantage of the opportunity to attend classical music concerts, medieval fairs or even reenactments of historical battles. These events further enrich your experience and allow you to experience the atmosphere of the past.

  • Medieval Fairs

The medieval fairs in Burg Burghausen are a real spectacle that takes visitors back to the time of knights and ladies of the court. These events are a real treat for lovers of history and culture, and are held in two key periods during the year.

During these fairs, Burghausen Castle comes alive with the sounds of troubadours, the sights of knightly tournaments and the smells of medieval cuisine. The fairs also include numerous craft workshops where visitors can learn about the traditional techniques of making weapons, fabrics and other handicrafts.

These events offer the opportunity to dress up in medieval costumes, participate in games and competitions, and try authentic medieval specialties. Also, you can enjoy performances by street performers, musicians and actors who evoke life in the castle several centuries ago.

part of the Burghausen Castle courtyard_1
Part of the Burghausen Castle courtyard
  • Classical Music Concerts

Burg Burghausen often hosts classical music concerts, which take place in beautiful, acoustic spaces within the castle. A visit to a classical music concert gives you the opportunity to enjoy the works of the greatest composers while sitting in a historical setting. The acoustics inside the castle contribute to a special experience, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and monumental.

  • Reconstructions of Historical Battles

For those interested in military history, re-enactments of historical battles are an unmissable event. Local enthusiasts and history clubs dress up in authentic uniforms and use replicas of historic weapons to relive significant battles of the past. By looking at these reconstructions, you can gain a better insight into the strategies and technologies of warfare that shaped the history of the castle and the region.

Pile of old cannonballs near historic doorway at Burghausen Castle in Bavaria, Germany
A bunch of old cannonballs
  • Cultural Events and Festivals

In addition to medieval fairs, the castle hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Whether it’s a wine festival, gastronomic events or art exhibitions, each event offers a unique opportunity to get to know local culture and traditions. These festivals are ideal for tasting local specialties, enjoying music and art, and meeting local residents and artisans.

  • Thematic Tours and Educational Workshops

Thematic tours and educational workshops allow you to learn more about specific aspects of life in the castle. These tours are led by experts and history enthusiasts who can give you a deeper understanding of the architecture, daily life, and historical events associated with the castle. Workshops on medieval crafts, such as metal forging or fabric making, give you the opportunity to actively participate and create something with your own hands.

  • Film Screenings and Open Air Theatre

During the warmer months, Burg Burghausen often organizes film screenings and outdoor theater performances. These events are ideal for evening relaxation under the stars, while enjoying cultural events in a unique setting. Regardless of whether you are watching a classic film or a contemporary play, the atmosphere of the castle adds a special charm to any event.

For the most accurate information about dates and programs, I recommend visiting the official website of Burghausen.

traditional medieval attire
Traditional medieval attire
traditional medieval attire
Traditional medieval attire

Internationale Jazzwoche Burghausen

Every year in March, Burghausen turns into a world jazz stage during International Jazz Week. The streets of the city, the castle and local cafes are filled with the sounds of jazz, attracting music lovers from all over the world. The festival lasts for a week and offers a varied program, including concerts, workshops, and spontaneous jazz performances. The performers are world-renowned jazz artists, and the atmosphere is always vibrant and creative. As you walk through the streets, you feel the music becoming a part of you, creating unforgettable moments.

Jazz Week is more than a festival – it’s a celebration of music, community and cultural diversity. Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the performances of jazz legends, as well as to discover new talents. Workshops provide a unique opportunity to learn and interact with musicians, while nightly concerts transform the city into a place of non-stop entertainment. The festival is ideal for everyone, from passionate jazz fans to those who are just discovering the charms of this musical genre.

This is the time when Burghausen comes alive in a special way, bringing sounds, colors and rhythms that spread through the streets and reach every visitor. Every corner of the city becomes a scene, and every moment an opportunity for a new musical experience. The Jazz Festival in Burghausen is not just an event – it is an experience to be remembered for a lifetime.

Lake Wöhrsee: Burghausen’s Hidden Gem

Lake Wohrsee
View from Burghausen Castle to the lake Wohrsee

As you make your way down the paths leading from the imposing Burghausen Castle, the peaceful surface of Lake Wöhrsee opens up before you. This lake, located in the valley below the castle, offers you the perfect place for relaxation and recreation, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

  • Nature and Ambience

Lake Wöhrsee is surrounded by lush greenery and paths that run along the shore. These trails are ideal for walking, running or cycling, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air. As you walk, you can smell the pine trees and hear the chirping of birds, which creates a perfect harmony of nature. The water in the lake is crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky and the green slopes around it.

Relaxing Boat Ride on Lake Wöhrsee
A relaxing boat ride on Lake Wohrsee
  • Outdoor activities

Lake Wöhrsee is the perfect place for various outdoor activities. During the summer months, the lake turns into a real oasis for swimmers. The lake beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, and the landscaped picnic areas allow you to enjoy an outdoor meal with family and friends. If you like water sports, here you can rent paddle boats or kayaks and explore the lake from the water.

In winter, when the temperatures drop, the lake becomes a natural ice rink. The thick layer of ice attracts skaters of all ages, providing unique winter fun. The surrounding slopes are also popular for Nordic skiing, offering you an active holiday in a snowy environment.

If you come by car, there are numerous parking options nearby. It is recommended to bring comfortable shoes for walking and sports clothes, especially if you are planning an active day. Also, don’t forget sunscreen and a hat during the summer months, as well as warm clothes in the winter.

When you get hungry, there are several restaurants and cafes near the lake that offer refreshing drinks and local specialities. After a day spent in nature, you can relax with a delicious dinner, enjoying the view of the sunset over the lake.

Lake Wöhrsee is a true natural oasis that provides the perfect balance between activity and relaxation. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a quiet place to relax, the lake has something for everyone. By visiting this beautiful place, you will have the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Burghausen, connect with history and enjoy every moment spent outdoors.

The Church of St. Jakob at sunrise in Burghausen, Bavaria, Germany
Sunrise at the Historic Church of St. Jakob in Burghausen, Bavaria

The old town of Burghausen: Museum, Monastery, and Picturesque Streets

The old town of Burghausen, located along the Salzach River, offers a unique experience of exploring historical sights and cultural heritage.

Sure to be interesting, the Stadtmuseum Burghausen presents a fascinating collection that explores the history of the city of Burghausen through artefacts, exhibitions and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the development of the city, its medieval past, as well as cultural and social life over the centuries. The museum is located in a historic building and offers a rich experience for all ages.

Another must-see attraction is the Zisterzienserkloster Raitenhaslach a former Cistercian monastery in Burghausen, Bavaria. It is known for its beautiful baroque architecture and peaceful surroundings. Visitors enjoy guided tours, historical exhibits and the beauty of the gardens. It is an ideal place for those looking for a cultural and spiritual experience.

“In den Gruben” is a picturesque street in Burghausen known for its charming old houses, boutiques and cafes. Ideal for walking and exploring, it offers an authentic experience of local culture and history. Visitors praise its unique ambience and atmosphere that reminds them of the past.

Burghausen Jezero Wohrsee
Burghausen Castle emerges from the morning mist, its reflection dancing on the calm waters of the Wöhrsee.

Where to eat in Burghausen?

Traditional Bavarian cuisine in Burghausen

Klostergasthof Raitenhaslach is a popular restaurant in Burghausen that is highly rated by visitors for its beautiful location in a former monastery and authentic Bavarian cuisine. Guests often praise delicious specialties such as roast pork and home-made sausages. The atmosphere is described as calm and relaxing, perfect for enjoying a meal after a walk or exploring the nearby historical sites. Friendly staff and high quality of service further contribute to the positive experience of visitors.

Augustiner Brückenwirt and Gasthaus Burgcafé are excellent choices for authentic Bavarian cuisine. Address: Bruckgasse 104, 84489 Burghausen

International Kitchen

Il Borgo – Ristorante Pizzeria, an Italian restaurant, offering a wide selection of pizzas, as well as pasta and seafood. It is perfect for those moments when you want to take a break from traditional Bavarian cuisine and enjoy Italian specialities.

Asia Wok is a popular choice for lovers of Asian cuisine. This restaurant offers freshly prepared Asian specialities including sushi, wok and curry dishes. The ambience is modern and relaxing, making it the perfect place to dine after a day of exploring.

Cafes and pubs

Altstadtcafe Burghausen (Stadtpl. 95, 84489 Burghausen) on the main square is ideal for relaxing with coffee and cakes.

Practical Information

Restrooms are available in several locations within the castle, and most are well-signposted. When visiting the castle, I recommend comfortable shoes because you will be walking a lot on uneven terrain. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the amazing sights and memories.

For photography enthusiasts, Burg Burghausen offers countless opportunities to take pictures. Each courtyard offers unique perspectives, and the views from the top of the tower are truly spectacular. If you are planning a longer stay, there are several hotels and guesthouses in Burghausen that offer comfortable accommodation, and many of them have a view of the castle, which makes your experience even more special.

Toilets and Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities

The castle has several locations with toilets and adapted access for people with disabilities. For more information, visit Burghausen Castle.

Opening Hours and Tours

State Museum:
March 29 – October 3: 9 a.m.-6 p.m
October 4 – March 28: 10 a.m.-4 p.m
Closed: January 1, Shrove Tuesday, December 24, 25, 31

Tours:
“Secret roads” on weekends at 10:30 am and 1:00 pm (90 minutes)
Prices: Adults €5, children under 18 €2

Availability:
The fortress is constantly open and entrance is free
For more information, visit Burg Burghausen.

A magical family weekend in Burghausen: Experience the past and the present

As the sun slowly descends behind the horizon, illuminating Burg Burghausen with golden rays, you feel the place filling you with serenity. Walking along the paths that have kept the secrets of knights and princesses for centuries, you realize that you have stepped into history, but also that you have found a piece of yourself. Every tower, every gate and every stone of this castle tells a story about the past, but also about your journey through time. Burg Burghausen is not just a destination, it is an experience that you will carry with you, a place where dreams and reality come together in perfect harmony.

Good luck, and may the winds bring a smile to your face as you explore this magical place.

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