50 Best Castles in Europe – Ultimate Guide Not to Be Missed

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Europe is home to many amazing historical landmarks, architectural masterpieces and of course, possesses a rich cultural heritage unlike anywhere else in the world. One of the best ways to appreciate and better understand this amazing continent is to explore the diverse blend of castles, each with their own unique story and impact on the nation they reside. When it comes to the best castles in Europe, well it’s a tough decision because there are so many amazing ones to choose from.

Whether you are experiencing historic Windsor Castle or York Castle in England or the picture perfect Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, you can be sure that Europe is home to an amazing collection of breathtaking landmarks.

Best Castles in Europe

Thanks to many of our amazing friends around the world, we are delighted to put together one of the most in-depth guides to historic castles across Europe. This is certainly not an exhaustive list of all the castles and I am quite sure there are plenty of others that should have made this guide but for those of you interested in developing an itinerary to travel Europe to explore these epic landmarks, hopefully, this guide is a great starting point.

To make life a little easier, here is an interactive guide to all of the castles featured in this post. As you can see, there is a pretty epic road trip or Eurail train journey to be experienced here if you want to check out all 50 (and likely stumble across many others along the way!) castles.

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Please feel free to comment at the bottom of this post with your favorite castles and particularly share your recommendations on which others should be added to this list…but for now, please sit back and enjoy the collection of European castles that will leave you in awe through their architectural beauty, lavish designs and all the amazing stories surrounding them.

Check out the following table of contents to make life a little easier in navigating to your favorite castle(s) and below each castle is a “Return to Table of Contents” link so you can pick and choose which castles you want to explore…or of course, become an expert on all 50 of them!

Castles By Country Table of Contents

Austria
1. Frazensburg Castle
Belgium
1. Steen Castle
Cyprus
1. Othello Castle
Czech Republic
1. Cesky Sternberk Castle
2. Hluboka Castle
3. Kromeriz Castle
4. Loket Castle
Denmark
1. Kronborg Castle
2. Rosenborg Castle
France
1. Carcassonne Castle
2. Château de Cheverny
3. Chenonceau Castle
Germany
1. Eltz Castle
2. Hohenzollern Castle
3. Lichtenstein Castle
4. Neuschwanstein Castle
5. Wernigerode Castle
Ireland
1. Balleycarbery Castle
2. Blarney Castle
3. Malahide Castle
Italy
1. Castel del Monte
2. Castel dell’Ovo
3. Castel Sant’Angelo
4. San Michele Castle
5. Scaliger Castle
6. Sforzesco Castle
Latvia
1. Riga Castle
Malta
1. Cittadella of Gozo
Netherlands
1. Muiden Castle
Poland
1. Lancut Castle
Portugal
1. Pena Palace
1. St. George Castle
Romania
1. Bran Castle
1. Peles Castle
Slovakia
1. Spis Castle
Slovenia
1. Bled Castle
Spain
1. The Alcazar of Segovia
Sweden
1. Örebro Castle
Switzerland
1. Lenzburg Castle
United Kingdom
1. Arundel Castle
2. Blackness Castle
3. Caernarfon Castle
4. Caerphilly Castle
5. Cardiff Castle
6. Conwy Castle
7. Doune Castle
8. Edinburgh Castle
9. Sudeley Castle
10. Tower of London
11. Warwick Castle

St. George Castle

R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo,
1100-129 Lisbon
Portugal

Click here to see the location of St. George Castle on Google Maps

St George Castle dominates the horizon of the Lisbon city center in Portugal. Castelo St George sits atop one of the seven hills in a commanding position looking over the old Lisbon downtown area. Lisbon monuments such as Rua Augusta Arch sit below you at the bottom of the hill.

The original settlement on this site in Lisbon city center dates back to 48BC. Castelo St George has been in place since the 6th century when it was fortified by Roman Visigoths and eventually the Moors used it as a Royal seat of residence until the 11th century. Did you know Lisbon is older than Rome?

st george castle lisbon portugal

Today, Castelo St George welcomes tourist on mass as they make there way up the hill to the gate. Visitors will be rewarded with one of, if not the best viewpoint in Lisbon. The outer walls let you view Lisbon in a 180-degree arc. Say hello to the statue King Afonso in the adjacent courtyard seemingly still overlooking his royal palace.

Further exploration will find the remains of the Alcaçovas Palace complex where you can walk the walls, and an archaeological museum to discover artifacts found on site. Castelo st George should be one of your first stops when visiting Lisbon.

By Mark Wyld from Wyld Family Travel

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Lancut Castle

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Zamkowa 1,
37-100 Łańcut,
Poland

Click here to see the location of Lancut Castle on Google Maps

The castle in Lancut is the best that we have ever been to! Why? Because it has everything that you can possibly expect from the beautiful landmark: amazing interiors and stunning architecture. It was built in the 17th century and belonged to Lubomirski and Potocki families.

lancut castle

Lancut Castle is surrounded by the park, so after sightseeing, you can just walk around and relax. Lancut is a lovely little town located just 2 hours driving from Krakow. If you decide to go there, be sure to visit not only the castle but also the carriage house. It has one of the largest collection of horse-drawn carriages in the world.

best castles in europe

By Karolina Klesta from Travel Poland Tours

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Blackness Castle

Blackness,
Linlithgow,
Scotland

Click here to see the location of Blackness Castle on Google Maps

Blackness Castle is one of the best castles you can experience in Scotland. It is very close to Edinburgh, making it extremely easy to visit. It sits on the shores of the Firth of Forth, in a small town called Blackness.

blackness castle scotland

The castle has a wonderful history and was actually featured in the Outlander TV series. We visited on a cold, breezy day. We loved that they offered coffee in the little ticket store, and they even gave an explorer pack for our son to use during his visit. This had knight toys, a jester hat and many other little things for him to keep himself amused with during our visit.

One of the rooms of the castle had shield boards and rope hoops to play a tossing game. Blackness Castle is shaped like a ship and is also known as the ship that never sailed.

By Tasha, David, and Travis from Meldrums on the Move

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Caerphilly Castle

Castle St,
Caerphilly,
Wales

Click here to see the location of Caerphilly Castle on Google Maps

Caerphilly Castle, in Wales, is one of the best castles in Europe. As the second largest castle in Britain, it not only has a rich history since it was built in the late 1200’s, it also has a tower dubbed “The Leaning Tower of Wales”. The medieval castle’s south-east tower leans to a greater degree than the leaning tower of Pisa, the result of both damage and subsidence.

caerphilly castle wales

In 2016 a dragon appeared on the banks of the castle and promptly moved inside. Dewi was joined by the very beautiful Dwynwen and they have since had two babies. There are many rooms and areas to explore in this castle and in the summer of 2018 a new attraction called the Dragon’s Lair was added to delight visitors of all ages. It’s a must-see castle in South Wales.

caerphilly castle wales

By Cath from Passports and Adventures

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Château de Cheverny

41700 Cheverny,
France

Click here to see the location of Château de Cheverny on Google Maps

The Loire Valley in France showcases an abundance of stunningly ornate castles (or rather châteaux). One of our favorites has to be Château de Cheverny. I could say that it is because of the grand entrance, the exquisite artifacts oozing with history, or the perfect garden views. But with this chateau, it’s actually its quirks and extra activities it offers to the public. Whether it be jazz in the gardens, a murder mystery tour, or the visually engaging Tin Tin museum, there’s something for everyone.

Château de Cheverny

As we were visiting the Loire with kids, this chateau is a particular favorite as our boys loved watching the hounds being fed (every day at 11:30 am), before finding the LEGO structures hidden around the rooms of the chateau’s interior. Ensure you take a picnic to enjoy down by the river and if you manage to find your way out of the maze, reward yourselves to some delicious home-made ice-cream at Cafe de l’Orangerie.

By Jenny from TraveLynn Family

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Örebro Castle

Kansligatan 1,
703 61 Örebro
Sweden

Click here to see the location of Örebro Castle on Google Maps

In central Sweden, about 200 kilometers west of the capital Stockholm, you’ll find the small town of Örebro. The town is not one of the most well known in Sweden, but it’s known for one thing in particular – its beautiful 800-year-old castle.

orebro castle sweden

Örebro Castle is a beautiful old-fashioned castle, situated on a small islet in the middle of the river Svartån. Many historic events have taken place here, making it a special place in Swedish history.

Why not take a stroll along the river, sit down for a cup of coffee at one of the cafés or have dinner overlooking the old town as the sun sets?

By Per from Resrutt – The Travel Blog

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Caernarfon Castle

Castle Ditch,
Caernarfon
Wales

Click here to see the location of Caernarfon Castle on Google Maps

Caernarfon Castle, built by Edward I following a successful charge across North Wales, is a wonderland of turrets, towers and magnificent gates. The King wasted no time in marking the castles significance with the birth of his 4th son who would become the first Prince of Wales and go on to reign England as Edward II.

caernarfon castle wales

King Edward had the walls built in bands of different colored stones – a nod to  Constantinople – which intended to show strength. The huge towers which surround the inner courtyard are polygonal in shape and are unique in Edwardian castles.

european castles

The Eagle Tower, with its three polygonal towers sprouting from it, is the jewel in Caernarfon Castles crown. It’s a long climb up a narrowing stairway but the views from this most westerly point of the castle are amazing. Anglesey beyond the Menai Straights to the North-West and Snowdonia National Park to the South-East.

Visit Caernarfon Castle today!

By Tim Tunnicliff from Tunnocks World Tour

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Hluboka Castle

373 41 Hluboká nad Vltavou,
Czech Republic

Click here to see the location of Hluboka Castle on Google Maps

Hluboka Castle is probably one of the most fascinating castles in the Czech Republic. The white marble walls create the perfect picture scene both during the day and at night when it gets illuminated. If you like waking up early in the morning, you might witness the ascension of hot air balloons on the background, fully enhancing the fairytale feel.

hluboka castle

This Renaissance castle with Baroque elements is big in itself, but it is also surrounded by a vast garden with flowers and fountains that will make for a great picnic spot as well. Besides taking a tour inside the castle, you can stop for lunch or dinner at the restaurant in the chateau which is a 4-minute walk from Hluboka Castle.

Hluboka Castle is situated in the South Bohemia region, only 10 km away from Ceske Budejovice, the region’s capital.

By Lena Tarasyuk from Travel Monkey Blog

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Carcassonne Castle

1 Rue Viollet le Duc,
Carcassonne,
France

Click here to see the location of Carcassonne Castle on Google Maps

In the midst of the French countryside on the Spanish border lays a tiny town with an important historical significance. Meet Carcassonne – a home of the largest fortified city in Europe.

best european castles

Its citadel, the Cite de Carcassonne, is a medieval fortress dating back to 12th century of the Gallo-Roman period. Importantly, it has been added to the UNESCO list of the World Heritage Sites. The uniqueness of this place lays in its restoration process carried out in the second half of the 19th century.

carcassonne castle

The magnitude of the fortress with its fairytale collections of towers, drawbridges, artifacts, and atmospheric cobbled streets left us speechless. The unforgettable experience of walking along the fortress’ walls with the panoramic 360C view of the city as well as the view of the castle from the distance are the memories we will cherish forever.

carcassonne castle france

By Alex from laskababytravel.com

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Sudeley Castle

Sudeley Castle & Gardens,
Winchombe,
England

Click here to see the location of Sudeley Castle on Google Maps

Sudeley Castle sits amid 1200 acres in the honey-stoned Cotswolds, just dripping with English Royal History. King Henry VIII’s sixth wife, the only one to survive him, lies buried in the beautiful 15th-century church and Queens Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth I and Lady Jane Grey also visited here.

sudeley castle england

Yet today it’s also a private home, providing a curious mix of pageantry and personal life (and a pheasantry with 16 rare and endangered species.) You can sip afternoon tea, let children run through the adventure playground and stroll through crumbling ruins and immaculately preserved halls.

sudeley castle cotswolds england

All within one place and that’s why I love it so much: within the grounds of Sudeley Castle.

By Abi King from Inside the Travel Lab

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Othello Castle

Othello Castle,
Famagusta,
Cyprus

Click here to see the location of Othello Castle on Google Maps

One of our favorite castles in Europe is the “Othello Castle” located in Famagusta on the Northern occupied part of Cyprus.

othello castle cyprus

We love Famagusta generally because this is where Stefan’s family all originate from. So coming here is always an important discovery trip for Stefan.

We particularly love the Othello Castle because it is located in the gorgeous Famagusta Old town, which is rich with history dating back to the Romans.

othello castle famagusta

Othello Castle was built in the 14th century by the Lusignans to protect the port against possible enemy attacks. It was also used as the main entrance to the walled town of Famagusta.

It was later sold to the Republic of Venice who added the iconic relief of the Lion of St Mark. It was during this period when it got its name and has been romanticized. Shakespeare’s play “Othello” was written in around 1603 and was believed to be set here.

By Stefan and Sebastien from Nomadic Boys

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Blarney Castle

Monacnapa,
Blarney, County Cork,
Ireland

Click here to see the location of Blarney Castle on Google Maps

The most well-known castle in Ireland is probably Blarney Castle, site of the kissable Blarney Stone that Ireland is famous for. The castle is surrounded by beautiful grounds but the structure itself is just a shell.

blarney castle ireland

The legend is that if you kiss the Blarney Stone you will be granted the gift of gab or you will become eloquent. Depending on your tolerance for silly touristy gimmicks you may or may not feel compelled to visit Blarney Castle and kiss the stone.

blarney stone ireland

It is possible to visit the castle on a day trip from Dublin, but it is better to schedule a stop on your way to or from Ireland’s spectacular west coast.

By Talek Nantes from Travels with Talek

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Muiden Castle

Herengracht 1,
1398 AA Muiden,
Netherlands

Click here to see the location of Muiden Castle on Google Maps

Over 700 years of Dutch History in one place, or better saying, in one castle. The Muiden Castle is by far the most gorgeous medieval castle in the Netherlands. Only 15km away from Amsterdam, this castle offered protection to the city on the Eastern front. Today, this UNESCO Heritage Site entertains tourists of all ages.

muiden castle netherlands

The castle’s interior was restored and the new 17th-century decoration gives the Muiden Castle an imposing medieval look. Especially because of the interesting collection of weapons and armor. As a very traditional castle, Muiden Castle (Muiderslot in Dutch) is surrounded by water and you can reach it in the old-time style, by boat.

muiden castle

PS: If you visit the Netherlands in the spring, I’m sure you will fall in love with their neatly cared gardens.

By Bruna Venturinelli from Maps ‘N Bags

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Loket Castle

Zámecká 67,
357 33 Loket,
Czech Republic

Click here to see the location of Loket Castle on Google Maps

Once known as the Impregnable Castle of Bohemia due to its thick walls, Loket Castle is one of the oldest and most valuable castles in the Czech Republic. The castle and the town of Loket are like something out of a storybook and ridiculously photogenic! Indeed the town and the castle both appeared in the 2006 James Bond film Casino Royale.

loket castle czech republic

In contrast, Loket Castle includes possibly the goriest museum of torture that I have ever seen! I actually left the exhibit after only a few minutes as the moving exhibits were just a bit much but if you enjoy a bit of gore you will absolutely love it!

This lovely 12th-century castle is less than 10 minutes from the gorgeous spa town of Karlovy Vary and 2 hours from Prague.

By Amanda O’Brien from The Boutique Adventurer

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Lichtenstein Castle

Schloß Lichtenstein 1,
72805 Lichtenstein,
Germany

Click here to see the location of Lichtenstein Castle on Google Maps

Lichtenstein Castle, not to be confused with the country, is a strong contender for the most magical castle in all the land. Located in the Swabian Jura of southern Germany, the gothic revival style and the way it’s built upon this escarpment make it look like it came straight out of a fairytale – and in some ways it is.

lichtenstein castle germany

The modern castle was inspired by the novel Lichtenstein and was built in the early 1840s. It’s still owned by the Duke of Urach but it’s open to the public daily.

best castles in germany

Nowadays it’s a tourist attraction with tours all throughout the day and several hiking trails nearby. The easiest way to get there is by car.

By Kristin Addis from Be My Travel Muse

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Rosenborg Castle

Øster Voldgade 4A,
1350 Copenhagen,
Denmark

Click here to see the location of Rosenborg Castle on Google Maps

There is nothing I love more than seeing the turrets of a castle in the distance especially ones that I had no idea about. As we were riding the “Hop On Hop Off” bus around Copenhagen, I briefly saw them in the distance.

rosenborg castle copenhagen

Rosenborg Castle is different from many we have seen. While it houses many everyday items that the Danish royal family used, it held more artwork than I have seen at many others. The pictures were so beautifully painted and there were so many different types, ranging from landscape to floral among many others.

The portraits were incredible. It felt like the eyes were following you around everywhere you went. The rooms are a little darker than the usual bright rooms we have seen as well. It made you notice all of the tiny things within the rooms so much more and it also made the pieces that were housed in them so much more significant.

rosenborg castle denmark

Another amazing set of items that this castle holds are the Royal Crown Jewels in a vault underneath. The vault was manned by two soldiers that had the biggest guns I have ever seen in my life. As we walked around looking at all of the amazing and expensive jewelry, we were all thinking how amazing it would be to actually wear it!

As I said to the girls it is possible…the next Queen of Denmark is an Aussie girl!

By Bec Wyld from Wyld Child Travel

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Steen Castle

Steenplein 1,
2000 Antwerp,
Belgium

Click here to see the location of Steen Castle on Google Maps

Located at the bank of the Scheldt river, Het-Steen, or simply “Steen Castle”, is a 9th-century castle that happens to be the oldest monument in Antwerp, Belgium.

Originally raised as a castle which is evident from its design, it was then expanded into a formidable fortress with stone wall and gatehouses that defended the city for centuries. Steen Castle later served as a prison, a residence, a sawmill, and a fish warehouse until it was reopened to the public as a museum in 1863. Now that’s what you call a multipurpose monument!

steen castle antwerp

The best thing about this fascinating castle is that it stands right across the city center, near the port. When you go to the T-Steen you can also enjoy watching the sunset, gazing at the ships sailing by and the windmills at the horizon. You’ll certainly notice the Semini statue, a symbol of fertility, which was maimed by Catholic priests in the 16th century.

By Sinjana Ghosh from Backpack and Explore

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San Michele Castle

Via Bacu Abis,
09121 Cagliari,
Italy

Click here to see the location of San Michele Castle on Google Maps

One of the nicest looking castles in Europe is San Michele Castle, located in Cagliari, Italy. Visiting is one of the nicest things to do in Sardinia, and the best part of it is that, since it is not on the main tourist trail, it is actually very quiet. The castle surmounts the mountain that takes its name, and this location is perfect to admire gorgeous, 360 degrees views of the city.

san michele castle italy

The castle was likely founded in the late 12th century, though it reached its peak importance between 1350 and 1511, when the Carroz, an important Spanish family, made it its residence. The castle had defensive functions: it has 3 main towers and used to be surrounded by a moat.

It was abandoned in the early 17th-century and subsequently used as a sanatorium during the plague of 1652-1656, and later on again as a defensive point against French invasion.

san michele castle cagliari

Nowadays, the castle can be visited throughout the year. It often hosts an art exhibition. The bonus for animal lovers is the protected cat colony that lives in the beautiful park that surrounds it.

By Claudia Tavani from My Adventures Across The World

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Bled Castle

Grajska cesta,
4260 Bled
Slovenia

Click here to see the location of Bled Castle on Google Maps

Bled Castle is standing on a mighty steep cliff 1300 m high, surrounded by impressive natural beauty, mountain ranges in the background and a unique view of the picturesque lake and its island. Bled Castle with the lake and its island together represent an icon of Slovenia and is the most visited historic and cultural attraction in the country.

bled castle slovenia

This medieval and oldest castle in Slovenia houses a museum collection (representing the historical development of Bled town), a castle printing works (traditional manual printing), the castle cellar, the castle smithy, a small chapel, nice restaurant with a view of the lake and two courtyards.

The castle also hosts wedding ceremonies, numerous cultural events, from which the most important are medieval days.

By Leo from Safari Nomad

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Conwy Castle

Rose Hill St,
Conwy,
Wales

Click here to see the location of Conwy Castle on Google Maps

We are Sion and Ben from The Globetrotter Guys and while we love to travel the world, we never forget where we come from!

Sion is originally from North Wales and was lucky enough to live just 5 minutes drive from the beautiful Conwy Castle (Castell Conwy in Welsh!) which has been classed as a world heritage site by UNESCO.

conwy castle wales

Conwy Castle can be found on the North Wales coast and is situated in the town of the same name. The castle was constructed in 1283 and its walls encompass the whole town. This is one of the main reasons we love Conwy Castle, you can walk the walls around the entire town and get the best views – it’s the best way to see Conwy!

The castle sits on the edge of the Conwy River. The combination of the river, the castle and surrounding greenery makes this a spot not to be missed!

By Sion and Ben from The Globetrotter Guys

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Chenonceau Castle

37150 Chenonceaux,
France

Click here to see the location of Chenonceau Castle on Google Maps

If you are considering a Loire Valley itinerary to explore some truly stunning castles in France, you should definitely include Chenonceau Castle to your visit!

It is definitely a must-see in France, thanks to the originality of its architecture and its unique history. You will start the visit by walking through the main alley covered with plane trees, allowing the overall beauty of the castle to slowly unveil.

chenonceau castle france

You will soon reach the two gardens and will get captivated by the history of the castle and its inhabitants. You will learn about the jealousy, the rivalry of two strong women of the French History, Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers and will be surprised to learn that this castle is the only one in the Loire Valley that has been built and restored by women.

Its architecture is fascinating: not only from the inside with the bedrooms, the study of Catherine de Medici, the living room but also from outside. The castle is built spanning the Cher River and the elegance of its arches and the subtle water motion underneath add to its splendor.

By Rim from Curious and Geeks

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Castel dell’Ovo

Via Eldorado, 3, 
Naples,
Italy

Click here to see the location of Castel dell’Ovo on Google Maps

Castel dell’Ovo is probably one of the most beautiful castles in Naples, Italy. It lays on a tiny island named Megaris, tied to the mainland by a charming stone bridge. This place is possibly the most romantic spot in Naples at night: many couples come here to swear eternal love! At its feet, there is a tiny fishermen’s village named Borgo Marinari.

castel dell'ovo naples

The castle name, translated to English, means “Egg Castle”. The reason behind it is an ancient legend about the poet Virgil. Everyone believed him to be a powerful sorcerer. He thus said that he’d put a magical egg into the Castel dell’Ovo foundations to protect the city.

Should the egg ever break, the castle and the whole city would fall into ruin: people were terrified every time a war or an earthquake happened! Neapolitans, after all, are still very much superstitious!

Castel dell’Ovo is yet another one of the many things you can visit in Naples for free. The view from the cannons terrace is absolutely spectacular!

By Danila Caputo from TravellingDany.com

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Balleycarbery Castle

Ballycarbery East,
County Kerry,
Ireland

Click here to see the location of Balleycarbery Castle on Google Maps

Of all the amazing castles littered throughout Ireland, I couldn’t have been happier to stumble upon this one. Balleycarbery Castle, covered in ivy and moss, was built in the 15th century and once owned by the McCarthy Clan. My husband and I were driving counterclockwise on the Ring of Kerry and decided to take a little detour following random signs.

balleycarbery castle ireland

We weren’t too motivated given our over-crowded Blarney Castle experience, one of the most popular stops in the area. We decided to go for it anyway. Small, quaint, and almost completely isolated which definitely added to the whole experience.

One of the many reasons why going off the beaten path has its rewards. The castle is beautifully covered in green moss, you are free to walk through the corridors and stairways peeping out its arched windows imagining what it may have been back in its glory.

By Cydny Voicechovski from Goal Traveler

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Castel Sant’Angelo

Lungotevere Castello,
50,00193 Rome,
Italy

Click here to see the location of Castel Sant’Angelo on Google Maps

Located on the right bank of the Tiber River, the Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the most intriguing buildings in all of Rome. It has a complex history and was initially built between 123 and 139 AD to be the mausoleum for Roman emperor Hadrian and his family.

castel sant'angelo italy

Converted into a papal fortress in the 6th century, it was named after Pope Gregory the Great had a vision of the Archangel Michael miraculously ending the plague that was running rampant through Rome. In the 13th century, a secret passageway, the Passetto di Borgo, to the Vatican was added so that popes in danger could escape to the thick, fortified walls of the castle.

Most notably, during the 1527 sack of Rome, Pope Clemente VI took refuge here. Despite Castel Sant’Angelo’s turbulent history, today it serves as a museum where visitors can see beautifully appointed papal apartments, prison cells and torture chambers, Renaissance art, and some of the best views in Rome.

By Chrysoula Manika from Travel Passionate

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Malahide Castle

Malahide Demesne,
Malahide, Dublin,
Ireland

Click here to see the location of Malahide Castle on Google Maps

Once upon a time, castles were the heart of the village. In one seaside Dublin suburb, that’s still the case.

malahide castle ireland

For more than 800 years, Malahide Castle was home to the Talbot family. That long, sometimes brutal, history is illustrated in guided tours that show the castle as it was during the last Baron Talbot’s lifetime, right down to his military uniform, laid out as if he would be getting dressed at any moment.

malahide castle dublinIn 1975, his wife sold the demesne to the Irish State. Since then, the vast grounds have been the community’s playground, with football fields, walking paths, a cricket pitch, and even a golf course. Along with the castle, the Lord Baron’s beloved gardens, greenhouses, and conservatory – the Malahide Botanical Gardens – are not to be missed. Being just 20 minutes from central Dublin, Malahide is as vital today as it’s ever been.

By Rob and Ann from TravelLatte

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Warwick Castle

Warwick,
England

Click here to see the location of Warwick Castle on Google Maps

Castles are generally foreboding hunks of stone with a gruesome history attached to them. And while I’m all about the history, sometimes a break from routine can work wonders on the way you look at something. Exhibit A: Warwick Castle.

Situated at a bend along the Avon river, Warwick Castle has been fought over ever since construction began in 1068. After changing hands for seven centuries, it was converted into a country house.

warwick castle uk

The Tussauds group bought the castle exactly four decades ago and have since converted parts of the castle into play areas where children go happily while the adults inspect the castle’s history over the centuries. It might be a kitschy castle for some but there’s a way of enjoying Warwick if you can look past the obvious tropes created by its parent company.

warwick castle england

There are lifelike statues of prominent members of the castle (because Madam Tussauds!) as well as a collection of arms and swords impressively arranged in the former great dining hall. Finally, I encourage you to climb the ramparts to inspect the castle grounds, Avon and breathe in centuries of history from the top of the castle.

By Priyanko Sarkar from Constant Traveller

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Hohenzollern Castle

72379 Burg Hohenzollern,
Germany

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I have seen many beautiful castles in the past in the UK and in France. However, recently I fell in love with a variety of German castles, not only because of their rich history but also the incredible architectural beauty.

hohenzollern castle

My husband and I were driving along the Swabian Alp between Stuttgart and the Bodensee when we noticed a giant castle in the distance.  It was built on top of a hill and looked like it came straight out of a fairytale. We decided to make a detour to take a closer look.

hohenzollern castle germany

Hohenzollern Castle is built on the ruins of a former castle dating back to 1267.  You can book a guided tour that takes you through the myriad of beautiful rooms and for those of you traveling with kids, this is the castle you should visit.  They can dress up like kings and queens and are entertained by actors throughout the tour.

By Wendy Maes from Worldwide Wendy

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Eltz Castle

56294 Wierschem,
Germany

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While many drool over the Bavarian castles near Munich, if you really want to experience the beautiful medieval castles in Germany then head either to Rhine or Moselle river valley region. Our favorite castle in that region is Burg Eltz which looks just as majestic in person as it does it photos.

eltz castle germany

Eltz Castle is still owned by the same family that lived there since the 12th century. It’s absolutely free to roam around the castle and you only pay an entrance fee if you want to go inside to see the family rooms.

The castle is about 2 hours away from Frankfurt and 1.5 hours away from Cologne. There is a short hike to get to the castle through the forest nearby which starts from the parking lot. You also have the option to take a shuttle bus to the castle if you don’t want to hike.

By Richa and Gaurav of MyTickleFeet

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Cittadella of Gozo

Victoria,
Malta

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A visit to Gozo is a must do when visiting Malta and the Cittadella in Victoria is one of the most popular attractions.

Perched high above the city, it has been at the center of activity on the island since Neolithic times and was fortified during the Bronze Age around 1500 BC. It was later developed by the Phoenicians and in Roman times it became a complex Acropolis.

cittadella of gozo malta

As Malta has been invaded and occupied by many countries through the centuries the Cittadella has served as a fortress and a garrison and has been the source of refuge for many.

Today, the Cittadella – also known as the Castello, contains a number of churches and historic buildings, including the magnificent Cathedral of the Assumption, which was built between 1697 and 1711. The Cittadella has been included on Malta’s preliminary list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1998.

Having undergone a massive 5-year restoration process we were very impressed to discover what is effectively a small ancient town in perfect condition and were stunned by the beauty and workmanship that has been involved in creating her.

By Sandy from Tray Tables Away

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The Alcazar of Segovia

Plaza Reina Victoria Eugenia,
40003 Segovia,
Spain

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Located in Spain’s central Castile and León region, roughly an hour’s drive northwest of Madrid, the historical city of Segovia is blessed with a handful of architectural marvels. The phrase “fairytale-like” gets thrown around a lot—but in this case, it’s a fitting epitaph for the 12th-century Alcazar of Segovia.

alcazar of segovia

It’s so picture-perfect, the Alcazar is said to have inspired the design of not one but two iconic castles in pop culture: The Queen’s castle in Snow White, and Cinderella’s castle.

best european castles

Variously used as a royal palace, a prison, and an academy, the Alcazar takes its name from the Moorish word for castle or fortress. The halls and chambers are just as exquisite as the exterior—I love the stained glass and incredibly intricate ceilings.

alcazar of segovia in spain

Take your time when visiting the pretty interior courtyards strung with ivy, and make sure you climb the Tower of Juan for wonderful views of Segovia and its Roman aqueduct.

By Emily Lush from Wander-Lush

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Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwansteinstraße 20,
87645 Schwangau,
Germany

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Perched above the picturesque Bavarian countryside not far from the town of Fussen, Neuschwanstein Castle is, without doubt, one of the best castles in Europe.

Built for King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century, the castle is believed to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and today it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

neuschwanstein castle

The interior of the castle, with its towers and turrets, can only be visited on a guided tour but its well worth parting with the ticket price to see the exquisite furnishings inside. The wealth of the 19th-century royals beggars belief – and to think Neuschwanstein was just one of three castles Ludwig had built!

After checking out the inside of the castle, take the path to Marienbrucke. The scenery along this 15 to 20-minute walk is stunning and when you reach the Marienbrucke, you’ll have the best views of Neuschwanstein Castle.

By Carolyn from Holidays to Europe

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Riga Castle

Central District,
Riga,
Latvia

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Riga Castle was built in 1330 and located on the bank of River Daugava, due to many wars, the castle needed to be renovated and reconstructed which also resulted in its appearance and size changes throughout the history.

riga castle

Today, Riga Castle is the house of the Latvia president, there are also many museums that tourist can visit any time of the year. What I love about this castle is how simple it looks but it carries history and survived many wars. It is also located in the Old Town of Riga which means that it is very easy to visit.

If you are looking for the best things to do in Riga, exploring this historic castle is definitely one of the best attractions.

By Mary Charie from A Mary Road

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Scaliger Castle

Piazza Castello, 34,
25019 Sirmione BS,
Italy

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As soon as we saw a viral photo of Scaliger Castle on Lake Garda in Italy, we knew we had to see it for ourselves and we did. It is just as magnificent as the photos reveal, if not more. The castle is known as the “Sinking Castle”, however, that is not the case. It is actually just a rare example of medieval port fortification.

scaliger castle italy

The reason why we love Scaliger Castle so much is that, in addition to its unique look of sinking into the lake, it has a true fairytale feeling to it. It has a drawbridge, a moat, beautiful architectural towers and stunning views from the top. Scaliger Castle is an amazing sight to see and explore while you are in Northern Italy.

By Christina and Adam from Our Sweet Adventures

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Peles Castle

Aleea Peleșului 2,
Sinaia 106100,
Romania

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Peleș Castle in Romania is definitely a must-see. Its charm will instantly seduce you, especially given its location. Situated in Sinaia, a less than 2 hours drive from the capital, Bucharest, it lies in the middle of the Carpathian Mountains. So, you not only get to view a magnificent castle, but you will also be impressed by the surrounding mountains.

peles castle romania

The Peleș Castle is Romania’s most famous, and many will also say the most beautiful, castle. It was home to the Crown of Romania, its construction started in 1873 and ended in 1914. Unfortunately, when the Communist regime made its way in Romania, the King was forced to abdicate and the castle transformed into a museum.

Today, Peleș Castle receives numerous visitors coming from all corners of the world to enjoy this splendid historic building.

By Andra Padureanu from Our World To Wander

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Tower of London

St Katharine’s & Wapping,
London,
England

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The Tower of London is one of the UK’s most historic castles. It’s a must-see for anyone planning a visit to London. It’s not every day you get to see the Crown Jewels, the execution site where three of England’s Queens were beheaded and suits of armor made for kings like Henry VIII and Charles I.

tower of london

Go at the beginning or end of the day to avoid queues to see the Crown Jewels – it’s worth it to see some of the most famous jewels and diamonds in the world.

tower of london uk

Try to spot the iconic ravens and be sure to go on a Beefeater tour where you’ll hear some of the more gruesome stories about the Tower’s history.

By Clare Thomson from Suitcases and Sandcastles

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Pena Palace

Estrada da Pena,
2710-609 Sintra,
Portugal

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There are plenty of beautiful castles around Europe, but neither can rival Pena Palace’s eccentricity. I mean, unless it’s an inflatable McDonalds castle, bright red and yellow are not the colors you associated castles with, right?

pena palace portugal

Being a beautiful representation of the 19th-century trend for exoticized romantic architecture, Palacio Nacional da Pena is one of the biggest attractions in Portugal. Located on a top of a hill and surrounded by dense forest, it is arguably the most picturesque palace in the world.

If you want to visit Sintra and check out the Pena Palace, you better get there early. Only a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon away, the place is one of the most popular day trip destinations and getting there later would mean you have to spend your day waiting on lines than enjoying the vivid colors of this quirky castle.

By Verislav Tudzhzarov from Global Castaway 

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Doune Castle

Castle Hill,
Doune,
Scotland

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Located near Loch Lomond in central Scotland’s Stirling district, Doune Castle should look very familiar to anyone with an interest in popular culture. Built in the early 1400s for Robert Stewart, the Duke of Albany (and grandson of Robert the Bruce), the medieval castle has been inhabited by Scottish legends ranging from Mary, Queen of Scots to Bonnie Prince Charlie.

Doune Castle Scotland

In more recent times, it has appeared in everything from Monty Python & the Holy Grail and Game of Thrones to Outlander. The reason for its popularity should be obvious from your visit: The castle is vast and largely empty, leaving plenty of room for imagining its ancient history.

The excellent audio tours (narrated by Monty Python’s Terry Jones and Outlander star Sam Heughan, depending on which track you choose) add great historical context to rooms such as the Great Hall, Lord’s Hall, and kitchen. It was arguably our favorite castle in Scotland but get there early if you visit in peak season and want to avoid the crowds.

By Bret Love and Mary Gabbett from Green Global Travel

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Lenzburg Castle

Schloss,
5600 Lenzburg,
Switzerland

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The castle of Lenzburg, located in the “Kanton” (like a state) of Aargau in Switzerland, is special due to its location on top of a hill, which rises up over 100 meters. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 11th century and is a heritage site of national significance. Since the castle went into the hands of the state in the 60’s, it was renovated and re-opened as a museum later, which it still is today.

Lenzburg Castle Switzerland

The castle of Lenzburg is also a perfect day trip from almost every major city in Switzerland, but especially when visiting Berne, Lucerne or Zurich. Together with the nearby castle of Hallwyl, it’s certainly a good choice for everybody that loves castles.

By Michael Gerber from mscgerber.com

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Kromeriz Castle

Sněmovní nám. 1,
767 01 Kroměříž,
Czech Republic

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While it’s Prague that gets most of the attention in the Czech Republic, the whole country is full of beautiful historic castles. One of the most important – and a World Heritage Site – is Kroměříž Castle. The first residence was built in 1497 and then rebuilt at the end of the 1600s after the Swedish army had ransacked it. At this time, it was home to the politically-powerful bishops of Olomouc.

Kromeriz Castle

Today you can only visit the interior of Kroměříž Castle on a guided tour. What is so incredible is not just the building, but the treasures inside. And it goes well beyond the ornate furniture and grand decorations.

Inside Kromeriz Castle

The library has tens of thousands of books, with manuscripts from composers like Mozart and Beethoven. And the artworks that are kept here are considered the second-best collection in the country. The gardens that are attached to the castle are also beautiful and one of the other main reasons it was added to the World Heritage List.

By Michael Turtle from Time Travel Turtle

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Sforzesco Castle

Piazza Castello,
20121 Milano MI,
Italy

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In the heart of Milan, Sforzesco Castle is an imposing fortress built by the powerful Sforza family in the 15th century. Surrounded by a moat, the turreted castle is a huge complex that houses several museums dedicated to the fascinating, yet often overlooked, history of the city.

Sforzesco Castle

While rival Florence is often credited with being the cradle of the Renaissance, it is fair to say the great artists were nurtured in Milan. At Sforzesco Castle, Leonardo da Vinci was commissioned to decorate several rooms as well as famous Last Supper painting found at nearby Santa Maria delle Grazie. You can see his entrancing frescoes in the Sala delle Asse and then bask in the beauty of Michelangelo’s last sculpture known as the Rondanini Pietà.

Sforzesco Castle Milan

Sforzesco Castle is in central Milan surrounded by beautiful Parco Sempione. It is a must-see stop for history and art lovers visiting northern Italy.

By Katy Clarke from Untold Morsels

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Castel del Monte

Strada Statale 170,
76123 Località Castel Del Monte, Andria BT,
Italy

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The medieval Castel del Monte is located on a hill overlooking the northern Puglian landscape of olive groves and rugged stone terraces. It’s a curious structure – some have even implied it’s not a castle at all due to its lack of a moat or drawbridge – that inspires the imagination, but that does look somewhat out of place in its surroundings.

Castel del Monte

Despite its unknown original purpose, the castle draws in visitors with its unique charm. Built in an octagonal shape, the original design drew on many different cultures for inspiration – many of which are evident as you explore the site.

Today, you can walk around the site for free, marvel at the vast views and relax on the lawn for a picnic. But to venture inside you’ll have to pay a small fee for the privilege.

By Nadine Maffre from Le Long Weekend

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Cardiff Castle

Castle St,
Cardiff,
Wales

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Cardiff Castle is special because it’s a mixture of Roman fort, bona fide medieval castle and extravagant Gothic fantasy all rolled into one.

It dominates Cardiff city center and is one of the first places many visitors to Wales see. The 12th century keep tower gives a great view over the city, and the 19th-century outer walls hide tunnels which doubled as bomb shelters during World War II.

Cardiff Castle

However, the most memorable part of Cardiff Castle is the 19th-century west wing, an ornate riot of decorated rooms and apartments built by the Third Marquess of Bute. He made his fortune from the nearby South Wales coalfields, and indulged his fantasies here and at fairytale Castell Coch, on the outskirts of the city. Bute Park, next door to the Castle, is a beautiful place for a walk with great views of the Castle exterior.

By David Angel from Travel With Little One

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Cesky Sternberk Castle

Cesky Sternberk 1,
257 27 Cesky Sternberk,
Czech Republic

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Perched on a hill overlooking the River Sazava, the Český Šternberk castle is one of the most impressive in the Czech Republic. Built in the mid-13th-century by Zdeslav of Divišov — the castle received the name of his personal coat of arms which is characterized by an eight pointed star.

Cesky Sternberk Castle

In fact, the name is made up two words — Stern meaning star and Berg the mountain, perfecting describing this magnificent castle. The Český Šternberk castle has been under a private ownership for the past 800 years.

First built in Gothic style, in the 16th-century, Baroque elements were added to its design. Its 15 rooms are decorated with gorgeous furnishings, opulent chandeliers and house an exquisite art collection. From the pretty rose garden visitors will enjoy splendid views of the river.

By Elena Sergeeva from Passion For Hospitality

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Kronborg Castle

Kronborg 2 C,
3000 Helsingør,
Denmark

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Located in the Danish town of Elsinore (English name derived from the Danish Helsingør) on the narrowest point of Øresund (entrance of Baltic Sea) between Sweden and Denmark, Kronborg is one of the most famous renaissance castles in Northern Europe.

Kronborg is best known as the Hamlet’s Castle. Yes, this is the place where Shakespeare set Hamlet in. It hosts a famous Summer Shakespeare Festival. You can experience the rendition of Hamlet from June to August. It’s a delight to witness the in-place performances in different parts of the castle. The castle offers free tours in English and Danish for visitors.

Kronborg Castle

The castle was burned to ashes destroying most of the precious adornments. It was rebuilt and remained intact to the present day. Kronborg became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

Helsingør can be reached from Copenhagen in just 40-45 minutes by train or rented car. It’s among the best day trips from Copenhagen. We visited the castle with kids. It turned out to be an amazing experience. The admission is free for kids (0-17) while it costs 140 DKK for adults.

By Anjali Chawla from Travel Melodies

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Bran Castle

Strada General Traian Moșoiu 24,
Bran 507025,
Romania

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Bran Castle in Romania is a beautiful 14th-century castle with a nefarious past. The real-life Count Dracula, aka Vlad the Impaler, once lived here in this beautiful part of Transylvania, which formed the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s classic novel Dracula.

Bran Castle

Despite its roots as one of the scariest places in literature, Bran Castle is actually surprisingly beautiful, located high on a hill amongst the forest in the outskirts of Brașov, one of the most beautiful cities in Romania.

I love it because I wrote a paper about Dracula during college and it was magical (and a tiny bit spooky) to get to visit this castle in person and imagining the book’s happenings taking place in real life. It is unique for its place in literary history as well as real-world history, as equally famous in legend as in historical importance.

By Allison Green from Sofia Adventures

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Arundel Castle

Arundel,
BN18 9AB,
United Kingdom

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Arundel Castle is my favorite castle in the UK, and it lies on the south coast of England in the county of Sussex.  Its history goes back a thousand years and this is reflected in its architecture.  The ancient keep and battlements are the oldest area of the castle and lie partly in ruins; but the rest of the castle is a magnificent stately home, complete with an enormous hall full of treasures.

Arundel Castle

Some of the rooms are set out as miniature museums showing what life was like in medieval times and also during the civil war.  Arundel Castle has belonged to the same family for hundreds of years, and they still live there today.

The gardens are equally as impressive especially in the springtime during the annual tulip festival, when thousands of bulbs bloom at once.  The gardens are filled with water features including a crown that appears to float on a fountain. In short, Arundel Castle is unmissable inside and out and is worth making the effort to get to!

By Emily Cole from Kids and Compass

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Frazensburg Castle

Schloßpl.,
2361 Laxenburg,
Austria

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Laxenburg, a town just outside Vienna, is a small getaway destination for those who want fresher air, fewer people, less busy area, and just being close to nature for some hours. The town is most famous for the Laxenburg Park/Castle grounds which has castles and museums to explore, there’s also an English park, ponds that ducks and birds enjoy, and an island.

Franzensburg Castle

One of the more known castles in Laxenburg is the Franzensburg, it’s a moated castle on the island, which can be reached by going around the property or by riding a cabled boat across. When you visit, it is most likely that you’ll see boats of all kinds by the bank – these boats are for rent in case you want to spend some hours in the water.

Franzensburg Castle with Locals

The Franzensburg houses a museum, which holds paintings of known painters (life-size ones), sculptures (made of marble), furniture, wood ceiling installations, as well as weapons from the 12th to the 19th century. The museum is called “little” treasure house of Austria, which ironically, is far from being little.

By Gizelle Marie from Our City Travels

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Edinburgh Castle

Castlehill,
Edinburgh EH1 2NG,
United Kingdom

Click here to see the location of Edinburgh Castle on Google Maps

Think Edinburgh, think Edinburgh Castle. This dramatic fortress perched high on a volcanic rock is for some the cherry on a very delicious cake. Every year a staggering 2 million visitors pass through its fortified gates. The castle’s esplanade transforms into one of the most dramatic concert venues in the UK playing host to artists such as Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, and the world-famous Military Tattoo. So, what is all the fuss about?

Well to start with, historically it’s the most important stronghold in Scotland, a Royal castle has been present here since the 12th century. The oldest remaining parts of the castle are the 12th century St Margaret’s Chapel, the 16th Century great hall and Royal Palace, where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to her son. Highlights include the Stone of Destiny (a sacred object used for the coronation of Kings), the 15th Century Scottish crown jewels, Mons Meg and the Great Hall.

Edinburgh Castle

The castle is in the very center of Edinburgh with easy access from the Royal Mile. Historic Scotland and the army are responsible for maintaining and managing the castle. We strongly recommend that you buy your tickets ahead on the official website and add this special site to your Edinburgh bucket list!

By Gillian Denovan from Scotland Bucket List

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Spis Castle

053 61 Žehra,
Slovakia

Click here to see the location of Spis Castle on Google Maps

Spišský Hrad (Spiš Castle) has three major claims to fame:

  • It is one of the biggest castle ruins (some say the biggest) in Central Europe
  • Slovakia’s proudest UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top destination
  • my favorite castle in Slovakia because it’s both spectacular and brings back fond memories of frequent visits on school and family trips.

The 12th-century castle sits atop a travertine hill. First a border fortress, then expanded several times, particularly in the 14th century, it was a longtime power center of the rich Spiš region. One of the Hungarian kings was born here. After a big fire destroyed it in 1780, Spiš Castle fell into ruin until the 1970s conservation.

spis castle slovakia
Image attributed to Pixabay under CC0 1.0

The museum located here showcases the castle’s history, historic weaponry, and feudal justice practices. Night tours are very popular, and reenactments and performances draw big summer crowds.

By Peter Korchnak from I ♥ Slovakia

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Wernigerode Castle

Am Schloß 1,
38855 Wernigerode,
Germany

Click here to see the location of Wernigerode Castle on Google Maps

When I lived in Magdeburg, Germany I visited the beautiful Schloss Wernigerode in the Harz mountains, and it has since become one of my favorites. Similar in style to Bavaria’s Neuschwanstein, albeit smaller, this baroque style castle was once a medieval fortress.

A little over 1 mile/2 km from the Wernigerode train station, you can easily reach the castle by foot. If you’d rather not walk up the hill to the castle, you can hop on the cute Bimmelbahn tourist train.

wernigerode castle germany

Once at the top, be sure to enjoy the stunning view of historic Wernigerode below! There are a couple different tours you can choose from in order to explore different parts of the castle, and there are discounted rates for kids and families. Once you’ve had enough of the castle, be sure to walk back down to the town center and take in the beautiful half-timber buildings in the market square.

By Cate Brubaker from International Desserts Blog

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Summary

Quite a collection of amazing castles…how many of you have visited all 50? I can’t imagine there are many out there so plenty of inspiration for sure as you plan your next European adventure! I know we are excited about exploring many of these.

I want to thank all of our amazing friends from around the world for sharing these gorgeous castles. With so much history, heritage and spectacular architectural design, these castles are the “Best of the Best” when it comes to Europe’s finest structures. Which castle do you think should be number one on everyone’s list? In our opinion, there is no best castle as each one has something unique that makes it so amazing!

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Chris Boothmanhttps://abritandasoutherner.com
Chris Boothman is the co-founder of A Brit and A Southerner. Born near Manchester, England, Chris moved to USA in 2006 where he soon after met his wife and travel partner in crime, Heather. They have since embarked on an amazing journey of travel as they challenge others to follow in their paths of working full-time but also being able to travel frequently! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact Chris at [email protected]

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