Why is it that tourists find castles to be such fascinating destinations? The astonishing constructions bring us closer to living out our fairytale aspirations and exhibit some of the world’s most remarkable architecture, some of the most magnificent landscapes, and perhaps even a ghost story or two.
In Europe, it would seem impossible to go to a town or go on a road trip without coming across some fortified royal residence, making Europe the best spot on the whole planet to locate awe-inspiring castles. In this region, you may go anywhere from the Pena Palace of Portugal to the Corvin Castle of Romania.
You will still discover ancient stone walls, sky-high towers, and bridges arching over shimmering moats. Please look at this list of the ten most stunning castles in Europe, and experience what it is like to be treated like the king you are.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Not only is Neuschwanstein Castle one of the most beautiful castles, but it is also one of the most renowned castles in the world. That is mainly because Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle was modeled after Neuschwanstein Castle.
The magnificent castle was constructed in 1886 at the request of the reclusive King Ludwig II as a private retreat; now, it draws over 1.4 million tourists each year due to its clifftop setting and elaborate interiors.
Pena Palace, Portugal
With its pink and yellow towers, ornate buttresses, and comical gargoyles, the Pena Palace in Sintra, inspired by German Romantic architecture, seems like a Disney castle from a distance. The palace is located on top of a hill in Sintra.
The interiors are just as spectacular as the exteriors. Do not skip seeing the ceilings and walls of Queen Amelia’s rooms, which are artistically carved, and the magnificent reception area, which is all white.
Guaita Tower, San Marino
Although San Marino is just around 30 square kilometers in size and is entirely encircled by Italy, the country is home to several historically significant locations. Guaita Tower is considered to be the most attractive of the three hilltop towers that can be seen in the nation’s capital city (you can even see them depicted on the coat of arms of the country).
The structure dated back to the 10th century and was built atop Monte Titano. Today, it is accessible to tourists throughout the whole year.
Palace of Versailles, France
You can’t speak about European castles without, at some point bringing up the Palace of Versailles, which is the epitome of French majesty and splendor and has become synonymous with the term “castle.”
The golden house from the 17th century and the estate that spans 1,977 acres are both the enduring legacy of King Louis XIV, and even French residents believe it to be a masterpiece that should be on their bucket list. However, to see all the Royal Stables, Hall of Mirrors, and endlessly captivating gardens have to offer, you should set aside at least a full day.
Hohenwerfen Fortress, Austria
The Hohenwerfen Fortress is another hilltop castle dating back to the middle ages, and it is often considered among the most breathtaking locations in Austria.
Along with regular visits, the castle, which dates back to the 11th century and overlooks the beautiful Salzach River Valley (located around 56 kilometers south of Salzburg), also hosts Christmas markets and falconry performances.
Alcazar of Segovia, Spain
The Alcázar de Segovia was initially constructed as a medieval stronghold; however, after a fire in 1862, it was completely reconstructed as a castle. Today, tourists may explore the castle, which has a museum, several rooms, hidden corridors, and turrets that gaze out over the town center of Segovia.
Then, be ready for some interiors that are just as spectacular as the exteriors. They are easily recognizable because of the abundance of canopied beds, stained glass windows, polished suits of armor, extravagant dining and dancing halls, and sumptuous dining and dancing halls.
Culzean Castle, Scotland
This clifftop castle is located off the western coast of Scotland, and it is bordered on one side by the sea and the other side by lavish gardens. The 10th Earl of Cassilis is credited for building Culzean Castle in the late 1700s. He intended the construction to be a prominent display of his riches and status; as evidence, one only needs to look at the lavish landscaping, a massive collection of artworks, and a dramatic central staircase.
The apartment on the top level of the castle was formerly used as a vacation house by Dwight D. Eisenhower; it was a thank-you present from Scotland after his contributions during World War II. Today, it is a vacation rental with six bedrooms and can be booked online.
Bamburgh Castle, England
A mirage-like image of Bamburgh Castle may be seen rising over the pristine beaches of Northumberland. The history of the medieval castle may be traced back to the 5th century, and it has been the subject of numerous tales and poetry written over the previous few centuries.
Others claim that it inspired the castle that Sir Lancelot built in the Arthurian tale. In recent years, it has been used as a setting in movies such as Elizabeth (1998) and Macbeth (the Michael Fassbender version from 2015).
Castello di Miramare, Italy
The Castello di Miramare, which is about a half-hour drive north of Trieste, the photogenic center of Friuli Venezia-Giulia, offers one of the most picturesque settings out of all the castles that are included on our list.
The building dates back to the 10th century and was formerly owned by the Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, and it is located in a verdant park that spans 54 acres. It’s not your typical seashore attraction by any stretch of the imagination.
Corvin Castle, Romania
This Gothic fortification from the 15th century may not have been the subject of any vampire-themed books, but it certainly can hold its own against Bran Castle regarding creepy characteristics.
Admire the outside of the fortress, which has walls twice as thick as those that are impregnable, a massive drawbridge, and numerous rectangular and round turrets that were previously used to maintain watch and lodge captives. Visit the vast dungeon and torture room and the remnants of the “bear pit,” which was used to feed human corpses to the bears that lived in the castle. Everybody had good moments.
Conclusion
There is something about castles that shouts “royalty” and makes us feel as if we are living in a storybook at the same time. So be sure to check out at least one of these breathtaking castles during your time in Europe if you want to bring enchantment to your travels there. On this list, you’ll find everything from the massive Windsor Castle to the majestic Neuschwanstein Castle, so there’s sure to be something that appeals to you.
