Castles & palaces
Burg Plankenwarth
Burg Plankenwarth
Burg Plankenwarth is a hilltop castle located in St. Oswald, near Graz, Austria. Dating back to the 13th century, the site offers historical architecture and a vantage point over the surrounding landscape. Visitors often explore the castle grounds and the nearby Ludwigsburg, a 16th-century structure situated at the foot of the hill.
Getting There
The castle is located outside the Graz city centre. The most direct way to reach the site is by car or taxi, which typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport options are available but may require a combination of bus and walking.
Visit Duration
Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk around the castle grounds and view the adjacent Ludwigsburg.
When to Visit
The site is best visited during the spring and summer months when the surrounding hills are accessible. Morning or late afternoon visits avoid the midday heat. It does not typically experience the high crowd levels found in the city centre.
Nearby Attractions
The location is well-suited for combining a historical visit with outdoor activities in the surrounding area:
- Generalkogel (1.5km): A nearby peak for hiking.
- Pilgrimage Church Maria Straßengel (3.5km): A significant religious site.
- Frauenkogel (3.6km): A local mountain destination.
- Steinkogel (4.1km): An additional hiking point.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors