Hochosterwitz Castle
A magnificent medieval fortress perched atop a conical hill, famous for its 14 gates and stunning Carinthian vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Hochosterwitz Castle
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent medieval fortress perched atop a conical hill, famous for its 14 gates and stunning Carinthian vistas.
"The most beautiful castle I've ever seen, definitely worth the walk up!"
🚶 Walk Up for Views
Walking up is cheaper and offers stunning scenery. It's a rewarding experience, even in summer! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Family Ticket Check
Lift access can be pricey for families. Compare one-way vs. two-way lift costs with walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 14 Gates
Entrance path
An iconic medieval defense, each gate offers a glimpse into the castle's formidable history.
Panoramic Views
Upper levels
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Carinthian countryside await from the castle's highest points.
Armory Collection
Main castle interior
Explore a fascinating collection of medieval armor and weaponry, showcasing historical military might.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Gates
Ticket Tiers & Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk Up for Views
Walking up is cheaper and offers stunning scenery. It's a rewarding experience, even in summer! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Family Ticket Check
Lift access can be pricey for families. Compare one-way vs. two-way lift costs with walking.
🖼️ Extra Exhibitions
The Leonardo da Vinci exhibition costs extra. Decide if it's worth it for your visit.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The views from the top are incredible. Don't forget your camera for those postcard-worthy shots! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk Up for Views
Walking up is cheaper and offers stunning scenery. It's a rewarding experience, even in summer! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Family Ticket Check
Lift access can be pricey for families. Compare one-way vs. two-way lift costs with walking.
🖼️ Extra Exhibitions
The Leonardo da Vinci exhibition costs extra. Decide if it's worth it for your visit.
📸 Capture the Scenery
The views from the top are incredible. Don't forget your camera for those postcard-worthy shots! :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hochosterwitz Castle is widely praised for its stunning medieval architecture and breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors are particularly impressed by the iconic 14 gates and the scenic walk up. However, some find the ticket prices, especially for families with lift access, to be quite expensive.
"The castle is set in a beautiful natural surrounding and is impressive through the number of gates you have to go through to enter it (or conquer it in the Middle Ages). The tickets are quite expensive (we paid 77 euro for a family of 3 with one-way lift access included). If you purchase 2-way lift access, they are going to be more expensive. You can also climb and descend on foot, in which case the tickets will be a little cheaper.
There were 2 exhibitions in the main castle: a permanent one, which looked a bit dusty and old-school, telling the history of the castle and the family owning it.
The temporary exhibition was dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci, and costed extra.
There are also a restaurant serving local specialties, toilets and a gift shop. Most defense towers and gates are either permanently closed or under renovation, so they cannot be visited.
You can have some amazing views of the surrounding areas from the top level."
Marius Zaharia
"Really beautiful castle. We took the lift up but I feel it was too expensive for a family of four. I would recommend walking up. We ended up walking down which gave us some of the most beautiful scenery of Austrian countryside. The museum is also quite nice. For an extra Euro, you can do a Davinci based attraction. My only wish was if we could tour inside the castle. Overall it's a great place to visit."
Shalen Ramasur
"The Hochosterwitz Castle is one of the most visited tourist attraction in Carinthia. The site is impressive, fortunately is a lift which transports tourists who cannot or are not interested in climbing on foot. The view is very beautiful, also the castle is impressive"
Michael Wexler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Traveling from Graz to Hochosterwitz Castle involves a journey of about 3-4 hours by train or bus, with one-way trips costing around $31-47 USD. Some travelers look for organized tours from Graz, which can simplify logistics.
Yes, public transport options including trains and buses are available to reach the vicinity of Hochosterwitz Castle. Rome2Rio is a helpful resource for planning these routes.
Driving is a popular option, offering flexibility. The castle is accessible by car, and parking is available nearby. The drive from Ljubljana is described as lovely over the mountains.
Parking is available near the castle. While not explicitly detailed in reviews, it's a standard amenity for such a popular attraction.
There is a lift available to transport visitors who cannot or prefer not to climb on foot, making the castle more accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary. A family of three with one-way lift access paid around 77 Euros. Two-way lift access is more expensive, and walking up is cheaper.
Yes, options include walking up, one-way lift access, and two-way lift access. The cost differs significantly between these choices.
While online booking isn't explicitly mentioned, it's advisable to check the official website for advance ticket purchase options to save time.
Standard tickets typically include access to the castle grounds and the permanent museum. Lift access is often an additional cost or part of a specific ticket tier.
Family tickets are available, as noted in reviews where a family of three paid a specific price. It's recommended to inquire about group discounts if applicable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a permanent exhibition detailing the castle's history and family, and sometimes temporary exhibitions like one dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci. Some defense towers and gates may be closed or under renovation.
Yes, there is a museum located on top of the castle, offering insights into its rich history.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Hochosterwitz Castle website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Not all parts are accessible. Some defense towers and gates are often closed or undergoing renovation, limiting full exploration.
Many visitors recommend walking up the path to fully appreciate the castle's scale and the surrounding scenery. The museum offers historical context.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant serving local specialties and a coffee shop at the top of the castle, providing refreshments and dining options.
The restaurant serves local specialties, offering visitors a taste of regional cuisine.
While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally expected that visitors will patronize the onsite dining facilities. Picnicking spots might be limited.
Yes, a gift shop is available for souvenirs and mementos of your visit.
Information on specific dietary options is not readily available. It's advisable to inquire directly with the restaurant staff upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the upper levels offer stunning photo opportunities. The approach through the 14 gates also makes for dramatic shots.
Photography rules inside museums can vary. It's best to look for signage or ask staff for clarification on whether photos are permitted.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the castle and the surrounding landscape.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and castles due to privacy and safety concerns. Check local regulations and castle policies.
Absolutely! The walk up offers numerous vantage points for capturing the castle's grandeur and the picturesque Austrian countryside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the top, the museum provides educational content, and the panoramic views are sure to impress. While some parts of the castle may be closed, the overall experience of exploring a medieval fortress is highly memorable for children. Pack snacks and water, especially if you plan to walk up.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save on costs at the onsite restaurant and coffee shop. Prioritize which attractions inside the castle are most important to you to manage expenses effectively.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers
Once at the top, exploring the castle grounds and taking in the panoramic views offers further opportunities for physical engagement. Be prepared for uneven terrain and steps within the castle itself.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Strategic Defense: Hochosterwitz Castle's 14 Gates
Walking through these gates is an experience in itself, allowing visitors to imagine the historical context of sieges and defenses. While some gates might be permanently closed or under renovation, their presence is a constant reminder of the castle's past. The journey through them is an integral part of the visit, building anticipation as you ascend towards the main castle complex.
For those interested in military architecture and medieval history, the 14 gates are a highlight. They are not just entry points but are integral to the castle's narrative and its imposing silhouette against the landscape. The experience of passing through them is often cited as a memorable part of the visit.
Choosing Your Ascent: Walking vs. The Lift
However, the lift provides a quicker and less strenuous option, particularly for those with mobility concerns or who are short on time. It's important to note that lift access significantly increases the ticket price, a factor that has been highlighted as a drawback by some visitors, particularly families.
Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference, fitness level, and budget. Both options offer a unique way to experience the castle, with walking providing a more immersive and scenic journey, while the lift offers efficiency and ease.
Inside the Castle: Exhibitions and Amenities
For those seeking more, temporary exhibitions are often available, such as a Leonardo da Vinci-themed attraction, though these typically incur an additional cost. The castle also features a restaurant serving local specialties and a gift shop for souvenirs.
It's worth noting that not all defense towers and gates are open for public viewing, as some may be permanently closed or under renovation. Despite this, the interior offers a blend of historical learning and practical amenities for visitors.
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