Burg Katz: The Cat's Castle on the Rhine

A majestic Rhine River castle steeped in history and legend, Burg Katz offers stunning views and a glimpse into Germany's past, though it remains a private, unvisitable residence.

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Burg Katz

Burg Katz, perched high above St. Goarshausen, is an iconic Rhine River castle, though it remains a private residence and is not open for tours. Built in 1371 by Count Wilhelm II of Katzenelnbogen, it was originally known as Burg Neukatzenelnbogen. The castle gained its nickname, 'Katz' (Cat), in rivalry with the neighboring Burg Maus (Mouse). Over the centuries, Burg Katz faced sieges and destruction, most notably by Napoleon in 1806. Rebuilt in the late 19th century, it stands as a picturesque landmark, best viewed from across the Rhine in St. Goar, from river cruises, or from the Loreley rock. Its striking silhouette, complete with a prominent tower, embodies the romantic Rhine castle aesthetic, drawing artists and photographers alike. While visitors cannot explore its interior, Burg Katz remains a captivating sight and a key part of the Rhine Gorge's UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

A brief summary to Burg Katz

An d. Burg Katz 3, Sankt Goarshausen, 56346, DE
Visit website

Local tips

View Burg Katz from across the Rhine in St. Goar for the best unobstructed perspective.
Take a Rhine River cruise to appreciate the castle's imposing position above the water.
Visit the Loreley rock for panoramic views of Burg Katz and the surrounding Rhine Gorge.
Explore Burg Rheinfels in St. Goar, a nearby castle open to the public, to experience the region's castle history firsthand.
Check out the Turner Route for specific viewpoints where the artist J.M.W. Turner painted Burg Katz.

Getting There

Walking

From St. Goarshausen train station, walk south along the B42 (Rheinstraße) for approximately 10 minutes. Turn left onto An der Burg Katz. The road ascends steeply towards the castle. While you cannot enter the castle grounds, the road offers increasingly better views of Burg Katz as you ascend. This final approach involves a moderately steep uphill walk. Parking is limited in the immediate vicinity of the castle; consider parking near the St. Goarshausen train station or along Rheinstraße and walking up. Parking near the train station may cost around €5-€10 for a day.
Ferry

If arriving in St. Goar, take the frequent car and passenger ferry across the Rhine to St. Goarshausen. The ferry operates regularly throughout the day. Upon disembarking in St. Goarshausen, walk south along Rheinstraße (B42) for a short distance, then turn left onto An der Burg Katz. Follow the road uphill for the best views. A one-way ferry ticket for pedestrians costs approximately €2-€3. Vehicle ferry fares vary depending on the size of the vehicle, ranging from €6 to €12.

Discover more about Burg Katz

Burg Katz, also known as Katz Castle or Cat Castle, is one of the most recognizable and photographed castles along the Rhine River. Located above the town of St. Goarshausen in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, it occupies a commanding position on a hillside overlooking the river. Although it is a private residence and not open to the public, its striking appearance and historical significance make it a key landmark in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. The castle's origins date back to 1371 when it was constructed by Count Wilhelm II of Katzenelnbogen. Originally named Burg Neukatzenelnbogen, meaning 'New Cat's Elbow Castle,' it was intended to serve as a toll castle, controlling river traffic and revenue. The 'Katz' nickname emerged as a playful rivalry with Burg Maus (Mouse Castle), built by the Archbishop of Trier, situated nearby. This 'cat and mouse game' reflected the power struggles between the Counts of Katzenelnbogen and the Archbishop for dominance in the Rhine region. Throughout its history, Burg Katz has endured numerous conflicts and sieges. In 1626, during the Thirty Years' War, the castle was heavily bombarded. Further damage occurred in 1692 when French troops besieged Burg Rheinfels, located across the river. The most devastating blow came in 1806 when Napoleon Bonaparte ordered its destruction. The castle lay in ruins for nearly a century. In 1896, the ruins were purchased by Landrat Ferdinand Berg, who undertook extensive restoration work, rebuilding the castle in a contemporary style inspired by medieval designs. Only the original bergfried (main tower), which initially rose to 40 meters, and parts of the shield wall remain from the medieval structure. The castle changed hands several times after Berg's family sold it in 1928. It served as an educational home under the Nazi's Reichsarbeitsdienst labor service, then as a school after World War II, and later as a recreation home for the federal finance administration. In 1989, Burg Katz was acquired by Japanese management consultant Satoshi Kosugi. Although Kosugi initially planned to convert the castle into a hotel, these plans never materialized, and Burg Katz remains a private residence to this day. While its doors are closed to the public, the castle can be admired from various vantage points. One of the best views of Burg Katz can be found from the town of St. Goar, located directly across the Rhine. The riverfront offers an unobstructed perspective of the castle and St. Goarshausen. River cruises along the Rhine also provide excellent views, allowing passengers to appreciate the castle's imposing position above the river. For a panoramic perspective, visitors can head to the Loreley rock, a famous landmark just upstream from Burg Katz. From the top of the Loreley, the castle can be seen amidst the stunning Rhine Gorge landscape. Burg Katz is closely associated with the Loreley legend, adding to its mystique and allure. The Loreley is a steep slate rock rising 120 meters above the Rhine, known for its dangerous currents and the legend of a siren who lured sailors to their doom with her enchanting song. The combination of the dramatic landscape, the historic castle, and the captivating legend makes this stretch of the Rhine particularly enchanting. The castle also holds a place in art history. The renowned British painter J.M.W. Turner captured Burg Katz in his watercolors, further cementing its image as a quintessential Rhine castle. His paintings showcase the castle's romantic appeal and its integration into the picturesque landscape. Today, Burg Katz stands as a symbol of the Rhine's rich history and cultural heritage. Although it cannot be explored internally, its external beauty and historical significance continue to draw visitors to the region. The castle serves as a reminder of the power struggles, sieges, and transformations that have shaped the Rhine Valley over the centuries. Whether viewed from the river, the surrounding hills, or the nearby towns, Burg Katz remains a captivating sight, embodying the romantic spirit of the Rhine.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Rheinbalkon St. Goar

0.6 km

Explore the breathtaking views of Rheinbalkon St. Goar, a serene spot for nature lovers and a gateway to the rich heritage of the Rhine Valley.

Aussicht über St. Goar und Rhein

0.8 km

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhine River at Aussicht über St. Goar, a must-see attraction near the legendary Loreley rock.

Middle Rhine Valley

0.9 km

Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of the Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perfect for hiking and cultural exploration.

William Turner Route - Standort 13

1.3 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Rhine Gorge that inspired J.M.W. Turner's iconic paintings, immersing yourself in the beauty and history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Ausblick Burg Rheinfels, Rhein, St. Goar

1.3 km

Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at Ausblick Burg Rheinfels, a must-visit attraction in St. Goar along the scenic Rhine River.

Ausblick Burg Rheinfels, Rhein, St. Goar

Rhine Gorge

2.0 km

Explore the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where stunning landscapes and historic castles create a magical experience in Germany.

Stele "Oberes Mittelrheintal"

2.4 km

Discover breathtaking panoramic views of the Rhine River from the Stele Oberes Mittelrheintal, a perfect vantage point to experience the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Oberwesel

5.1 km

Discover Oberwesel: A captivating Rhine Valley town with medieval charm, stunning scenery, and renowned Riesling wines, offering a journey through history and natural beauty.

Sterrenberg Castle

9.4 km

Explore Sterrenberg Castle, a majestic medieval fortress overlooking the Rhine, offering history, stunning views, and a taste of German culture in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Marktturm

10.7 km

Explore the captivating Marktturm in Bacharach, a historical landmark that showcases the rich medieval heritage and architectural beauty of the region.

Tourist-Info Hunsrück-Mittelrhein

12.0 km

Discover the Hunsrück region with expert guidance from the Tourist-Info Hunsrück-Mittelrhein in Emmelshausen, your gateway to scenic landscapes, cultural treasures, and unforgettable experiences.

Electoral Castle

12.9 km

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Electoral Castle in Boppard, a captivating German landmark overlooking the scenic Rhine River.

Lilientor

13.0 km

Discover the historic Lilientor in Boppard, a stunning landmark rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for tourists and history lovers.

Ruin "Fürstenberg Castle"

13.1 km

Explore the romantic ruins of Fürstenberg Castle, perched above the Rhine, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's medieval past amidst picturesque vineyards.

Pohl Roman Fortlet

15.0 km

Explore the Pohl Roman Fortlet, an engaging open-air museum showcasing the intriguing history of Roman military life along the ancient Limes.

Discover Loreley: A stunning observation deck offering breathtaking views of the Rhine River, rich history, and vibrant local culture in Bornich, Germany.

Essential places to dine

Am Mythischen Fels

1.3 km

Experience authentic German cuisine at Am Mythischen Fels in Bornich, where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

Burgschänke Der Landgraf

1.3 km

Experience authentic German cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Burgschänke Der Landgraf in Sankt Goar.

Thai Restaurant @ Hotel Weiler

4.9 km

Discover authentic Thai flavors at the renowned Thai Restaurant @ Hotel Weiler in scenic Oberwesel - where every meal is a delightful experience.

Burghotel Auf Schönburg Oberwesel

5.7 km

Discover culinary delights and historical charm at Burghotel Auf Schönburg in Oberwesel - where every meal tells a story.

Landgasthof Eiserner Ritter

8.0 km

Discover Landgasthof Eiserner Ritter: A charming hotel and restaurant in Boppard offering authentic German cuisine and warm hospitality amidst scenic beauty.

Hotel-Café Burg-Stahleck

10.7 km

Discover delightful European cuisine at Hotel-Café Burg-Stahleck, nestled in scenic Bacharach - perfect for travelers seeking authentic local flavors.

Hotel Restaurant Altkölnischer Hof

10.7 km

Discover comfort and culinary delights at Hotel Restaurant Altkölnischer Hof in Bacharach, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

An der Stadtmauer

10.7 km

Experience authentic German cuisine in Bacharach's historic ambiance at An der Stadtmauer - your destination for culinary delights.

Stübers Restaurant

10.8 km

Experience authentic German cuisine with stunning views at Stübers Restaurant in scenic Bacharach.

Gleis 3

11.4 km

Experience delightful family dining at Gleis 3 in Pfalzfeld, where every meal is crafted with love in a warm atmosphere.

Restaurant Severus-Stube

13.0 km

Experience authentic German cuisine at Severus-Stube in Boppard - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.

Lemabri

13.2 km

Experience the best of local cuisine at Lemabri in Boppard—where seasonal ingredients meet culinary creativity.

Hieren Mühle

15.4 km

Experience authentic German hospitality at Hieren Mühle – where rustic charm meets culinary delight in Ney's serene countryside.

Kay's Dorfkneipe / Kay's Partyservice

17.4 km

Discover authentic German cuisine at Kay's Dorfkneipe in Mörschbach - where hearty meals meet local brews in a cozy atmosphere.

Jayme's Restaurant

17.5 km

Experience authentic German flavors at Jayme's Restaurant in Rheinböllen – where culinary tradition meets modern taste.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Loreley Statue

0.6 km

Discover the enchanting Loreley Statue, a captivating tribute to the legendary siren, set against the stunning backdrop of the Rhine River.

Romantic-Rhine-Shop

0.8 km

Explore the Romantic-Rhine-Shop for unique clothing that captures the spirit of Sankt Goar and the beautiful Rhine region.

Birkenstock Headquarters

0.9 km

Discover the legacy of comfort and style at the Birkenstock Headquarters in Sankt Goar, where quality meets craftsmanship.

Second-Hand Anziehungspunkt Oberwesel

4.8 km

Explore sustainable fashion and unique second-hand finds at Second-Hand Anziehungspunkt Oberwesel, your go-to women's clothing store in Oberwesel.

Decker Meteorite-Shop

4.9 km

Explore the Decker Meteorite-Shop in Oberwesel: a unique destination for cosmic collectibles and fascinating meteorite displays.

US-Civilwar

7.8 km

Explore a unique blend of history and fashion at the US-Civilwar store in Kaub, where Civil War-themed apparel awaits.

Halfen - Strickerei GmbH

9.2 km

Explore quality fashion at Halfen - Strickerei GmbH, a premier clothing and outlet store in Hungenroth, perfect for every style enthusiast.

Uhr-Zeitlos

10.7 km

Explore exquisite handcrafted jewelry, local delicacies, and fine wines at Uhr-Zeitlos in Bacharach, a treasure trove for every traveler.

Stammer Mode

12.9 km

Discover the finest clothing styles at Stammer Mode in Boppard, where fashion meets quality in a charming shopping experience.

The Christmas Shop

13.0 km

Experience the joy of Christmas year-round at The Christmas Shop in Boppard, a delightful haven for holiday enthusiasts and gift seekers.

Vineum - Die Vinothek

13.0 km

Explore a world of exquisite wines at Vineum - Die Vinothek, Boppard's premier destination for wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers.

Vinyl Digital GmbH

16.8 km

Explore an extensive collection of vinyl records at Vinyl Digital GmbH, a music lover's paradise located in Mörschbach.

PerNaturam GmbH

17.8 km

Discover PerNaturam GmbH in Gödenroth, a top destination for premium animal feed, expert advice, and a warm community atmosphere for pet lovers.

Möbel Preiss GmbH & Co. KG

20.7 km

Explore Möbel Preiss in Kastellaun for exquisite furniture and kitchen supplies that redefine your living space with style and functionality.

Handgemacht Seibersbach

20.9 km

Explore Handgemacht Seibersbach, a charming needlework shop in Seibersbach, Germany, offering a unique selection of fabrics, threads, and crafting supplies.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

R(h)ein Chillen

0.6 km

Experience the charm of St. Goar at R(h)ein Chillen, a cozy bar offering local wines and craft beers with stunning views of the Rhine River.

Loreleyblick Maria Ruh

1.9 km

Experience exquisite dining at Loreleyblick Maria Ruh, where stunning Rhine views meet delightful German cuisine in a charming beer garden.

Mauerwerk

7.7 km

Discover Mauerwerk, a charming bar in Kaub, where rustic charm meets modern vibes for an unforgettable evening in the heart of the Rhine Valley.

Kleines Brauhaus

10.5 km

Discover the charm of Kleines Brauhaus, a unique beer garden in Bacharach with carousel seating, local brews, and a warm atmosphere.

Kupferkanne

10.7 km

Discover the heart of German hospitality at Kupferkanne, a cozy bar in the enchanting town of Bacharach, serving local drinks and traditional snacks.

Traffic Bar

12.9 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Traffic Bar in Boppard, where great drinks and lively atmosphere create unforgettable memories.

Die Falle

13.4 km

Discover Die Falle in Boppard, a charming bar offering local drinks and a cozy atmosphere along the scenic Rhine River.

Die Kleine Kneipe

14.6 km

Discover the inviting atmosphere and local flavors at Die Kleine Kneipe in Braubach, the perfect bar for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Ü-Bar

16.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Rheinböllen at Ü-Bar, where great drinks and good company come together for a memorable evening.

Bergs Vinothek

20.9 km

Discover the exquisite wines of Rüdesheim at Bergs Vinothek, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable experiences.

Alte Dorfschänke

20.9 km

Discover the charm of traditional German cuisine at Alte Dorfschänke, a cozy pub in Rüdesheim am Rhein, perfect for travelers seeking local flavor.

Little Bit

22.1 km

Experience the warm ambiance of Little Bit, a cozy bar in Kastellaun, perfect for enjoying local drinks and connecting with the community.

Unikat

22.8 km

Experience the vibrant local culture at Unikat, a unique bar in Simmern, where refreshing drinks and friendly atmosphere await.

Galerie Tapas- Cocktail Bar

23.5 km

Experience a culinary journey at Galerie Tapas - Cocktail Bar in Simmern, where exquisite tapas and crafted cocktails await your taste buds.

RäuBar by Hafer

23.5 km

Experience the charm of RäuBar by Hafer, a cozy bar in Simmern, offering a delightful selection of local drinks in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Discover the electric atmosphere of Club BAROCK, a must-visit night club in Koblenz for unforgettable nights filled with music and dancing.

NACHTWACHE

25.0 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Koblenz at NACHTWACHE, a premier night club offering electrifying music, exciting events, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Dominic the King

25.0 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Dominic the King in Koblenz, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await every visitor.

Fox Koblenz

25.0 km

Discover the heart of Koblenz's nightlife at Fox Koblenz, a vibrant night club where music and fun come alive!

The P L A C E Koblenz

27.5 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The P L A C E Koblenz, a premier night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

Partyband Duo Nightlife

31.7 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Duo Nightlife in Kirchberg, where music and dance create unforgettable experiences.

WESTERWALD LEGENDS CLUB

32.8 km

Discover the cozy atmosphere of Westerwald Legends Club, a charming bar in Montabaur offering local drinks and a welcoming vibe for all visitors.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Burg Katz with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Burg Katz: The Cat's Castle on the Rhine

A brief summary to Burg Katz

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Ferry

Unlock the Best of Burg Katz

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Burg Katz

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Rheinbalkon St. Goar

Aussicht über St. Goar und Rhein

Middle Rhine Valley

William Turner Route - Standort 13

Ausblick Burg Rheinfels, Rhein, St. Goar

Rhine Gorge

Stele "Oberes Mittelrheintal"

Oberwesel

Sterrenberg Castle

Marktturm

Tourist-Info Hunsrück-Mittelrhein

Electoral Castle

Lilientor

Ruin "Fürstenberg Castle"

Pohl Roman Fortlet

Unmissable attractions to see

Historischer Stadtturm & Loreley-Museum

Dreiburgenblick

Rhine castles trail / Section 10

Loreleyweg Weinberg

Rabenacksteig

Größte freihängende Kuckucksuhr der Welt

Skulpturengarten

Rheinsteig St. Goar - Kestert

Loreley Strahlenweg

Jeju Dolharbang

Romantik Hotel Schloss Rheinfels

Welterbe Oberes Mittelrheintal

Rheinfels Castle

Loreley Promenade

Loreley

Essential places to dine

Am Mythischen Fels

Burgschänke Der Landgraf

Thai Restaurant @ Hotel Weiler

Burghotel Auf Schönburg Oberwesel

Landgasthof Eiserner Ritter

Hotel-Café Burg-Stahleck

Hotel Restaurant Altkölnischer Hof

An der Stadtmauer

Stübers Restaurant

Gleis 3

Restaurant Severus-Stube

Lemabri

Hieren Mühle

Kay's Dorfkneipe / Kay's Partyservice

Jayme's Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Loreley Statue

Romantic-Rhine-Shop

Birkenstock Headquarters

Second-Hand Anziehungspunkt Oberwesel

Decker Meteorite-Shop

US-Civilwar

Halfen - Strickerei GmbH

Uhr-Zeitlos

Stammer Mode

The Christmas Shop

Vineum - Die Vinothek

Vinyl Digital GmbH

PerNaturam GmbH

Möbel Preiss GmbH & Co. KG

Handgemacht Seibersbach

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

R(h)ein Chillen

Loreleyblick Maria Ruh

Mauerwerk

Kleines Brauhaus