Top 15 Must-Visit Castles in Europe

European history would be incomplete without the extraordinary castles dispersed throughout the continent. These structures embody an aura of magic and intrigue, reminiscent of a fairytale. Many narratives and stories have drawn inspiration from these authentic castles, which continue to captivate us today.

Countries such as France, Germany, and the United Kingdom boast a wealth of castles—each distinct in its own right, impressing all who encounter them in person. Nevertheless, many European nations possess at least a few castles worth exploring. It is essential to recognize that the boundaries of countries have not always aligned as they do today; some kingdoms expanded significantly, leaving a legacy in the areas they ruled.

While there are countless castles awaiting discovery, the following are 15 of the most striking castles in Europe.

1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

This 19th-century Romanesque Revival-style castle is Germany’s most frequented castle and one of the most visually appealing castles globally. Instantly identifiable, Neuschwanstein Castle served as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle, solidifying its status as a real-life fairytale castle.

Commissioned by King Ludwig II, who became increasingly isolated from reality due to his troubled reign, the castle represents the embodiment of his imagination. The ambitious design, coupled with unrealistic timelines, resulted in construction extending beyond the initial three years, ultimately spanning over two decades. Tragically, King Ludwig II occupied the castle for only about 172 days.

Annually, over a million tourists visit this Bavarian castle, with several thousand flocking to it daily during peak summer months.

The breathtaking scenery surrounding the castle is equally remarkable. Perched above forests and mountains in the region, one could easily feel transported into a fairytale world.

2. Bran Castle, Romania

Bran Castle, situated in Central Romania, is renowned as Dracula’s Castle, despite the absence of any ties to Bram Stoker’s work that could connect the fictional Dracula’s castle with this striking real-life structure. The first documented references to the castle date back to the 14th century, and the fortress was originally built to protect the area from the Ottoman Empire.

From the late 19th century to the 1920s, the castle fell into disrepair until Queen Marie of Greater Romania undertook its restoration, transforming it into a summer residence.

Bran Castle exemplifies Gothic architecture and is perched atop a 60-meter high cliff in the Transylvanian Alps, also known as the Southern Carpathian mountains.

3. Château de Chantilly, France

There is no doubt that medieval castles, fortifications, and strongholds that once sheltered knights and witnessed numerous battles are impressive and awe-inspiring. However, many of France’s delicate and charming châteaux, particularly the Château de Chantilly, stand in a league of their own.

Located about an hour from Paris, the Château de Chantilly is an exquisite landmark in French history. The current structure dates back to the mid to late 19th century when it was reconstructed after the original site was destroyed during the French Revolution. The castle and its interiors exemplify renaissance architecture.

Although Château de Chantilly never belonged to the French royal family, it has always remained in the hands of noble families.

The grounds and gardens surrounding the castle span an impressive 115 hectares, with manicured gardens and beautiful ponds creating a captivating landscape.

The castle is currently home to the Musée Condé.

4. Eilean Donan, Scotland

When considering Scottish castles, Eilean Donan immediately comes to mind. Not only is it among the most famous castles in Scotland, but also in the entire United Kingdom. The impressive appearance of this medieval stronghold is further highlighted by its breathtaking surroundings. Located on a small island in the Scottish Highlands, flanked by three sea lochs—Loch Dutch, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh—Eilean Donan is undeniably stunning.

Films such as Highlander and The World Is Not Enough from the James Bond series have further amplified the castle’s recognition.

Similar to many British castles, Eilean Donan has encountered tumultuous periods throughout its history. Although its origins trace back to the 13th century, the castle was destroyed in the 17th century and reconstructed in the 20th century.

Eilean Donan served as a stronghold for the Mackenzie and Macrae clans.

5. Hohenzollern Castle, Germany

Hohenzollern Castle is a significant landmark in the Baden-Württemberg region of southwest Germany. Resting atop Mount Hohenzollern, construction of the existing castle commenced in 1850, following the decline of two earlier castles that once occupied the same site.

This impressive castle complex appears to be drawn from the pages of a fantasy story, featuring numerous towers and structures that captivate the eye. The castle includes military architecture, lavish buildings, chapels, and manicured gardens.

Situated 855 meters above sea level, it offers stunning vantage points over the surrounding landscape, with visibility extending up to 100 kilometers on clear days.

6. Corvin Castle, Romania

Castles play a vital role in Transylvanian history. This region in Romania is notoriously associated with Dracula, or more specifically, Vlad the Impaler, the ruler of Wallachia. While Bran Castle is often proclaimed as Dracula’s Castle, it is imperative to acknowledge Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, in discussions of pivotal Romanian and European castles.

Constructed in the Gothic-Renaissance architectural style during the late Middle Ages, Corvin Castle is among Romania’s most significant historic sites and ranks as one of the largest castles in Europe.

The castle has experienced numerous renovations over the years. After prolonged neglect, it also suffered considerable damage from several fires.

Due to its remarkable Gothic architecture, the castle frequently features in films, video games, and television productions.

7. Château de Chambord, France

The Château de Chambord stands as the largest chateau in the Loire Valley, embodying opulence. This chateau is widely recognized as one of the most superb examples of French Renaissance architecture, welcoming approximately 2 million visitors each year.

Chambord’s distinct design harmonizes medieval elements with Renaissance features. Originally constructed in the early 16th century as a hunting lodge for King Francis I of France, the chateau is enveloped by expansive grounds and an enchanting forest. The structure was only finalized during the reign of Louis XIV.

Since 1981, the Château de Chambord has been enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of its most notable features is the double helix staircase, celebrated for its innovative design and engineering, purportedly inspired by the concepts of Leonardo da Vinci. This spiral staircase comprises two parallel sets of steps, allowing individuals ascending from one side to avoid interaction with those descending on the other.

Inside, the chateau boasts over 400 rooms and nearly 300 fireplaces, although only 60 of these rooms are accessible to the public.

8. Moszna Castle, Poland

Moszna Castle, located in the small village of Moszna in southwestern Poland, is a 17th-century castle showcasing Baroque, neo-Gothic, and neo-Renaissance architectural styles. This fairytale-like castle once served as the residence of the industrial magnates, the Silesian Tiele-Winckler family.

The castle features an impressive total of 99 turrets and contains 365 rooms.

Ownership of the castle has shifted numerous times, and at one point, it functioned as a health institution specializing in psychiatry and neurology.

9. Gravensteen, Belgium

Gravensteen represents an imposing medieval fortress situated in the Belgian city of Ghent. Constructed in the late 12th century, the castle served as the residence of the Counts of Flanders until the mid-14th century.

The castle’s design was intentionally menacing, drawing inspiration from the castles built during the Crusades. Gravensteen features quintessential medieval elements such as a keep, a fortified oval-shaped wall, bartizans, and a moat.

After relinquishing ownership by the Counts of Flanders, the castle functioned as a court and prison until the 18th century.

10. De Haar Castle, Netherlands

When traveling through the Utrecht province in the Netherlands, Castle De Haar is a must-visit location. As the largest castle in Holland, it lies only a thirty-minute drive from Amsterdam. The medieval-looking castle was constructed between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, built atop the ruins of a previous structure.

Inside, the castle features exquisite wood carvings throughout, including works belonging to the Rothschild family, who oversaw its reconstruction.

The castle is encircled by a picturesque park adorned with ancient trees, gardens, and tranquil ponds.

11. Alcázar of Segovia, Spain

The Alcázar of Segovia is one of the most remarkable castles in Spain. An alcázar is a Spanish fortress constructed in the Moorish architectural style. The first mention of the Alcázar of Segovia in Christian texts dates to the 12th century, with its placement atop a rocky prominence typical of a fortress.

Throughout the Middle Ages, the monarchs of Castile favored the Alcázar of Segovia as one of their residences.

Exquisite exterior features include a moat, a drawbridge, a keep with four towers, and a Herrerian courtyard, while the interior houses several noble rooms and a chapel.

12. Castillo de Coca, Spain

Combining elements of Western and Moorish military architecture and showcasing Gothic features, Castillo de Coca is a 15th-century fortress exemplifying stunning Spanish Mudejar brickwork.

Situated approximately 45 kilometers north of Segovia, it stands as one of the few Spanish castles that was not constructed atop a hill. The castle boasts a triple defense system and is bordered by a moat.

Since the 1920s, Castillo de Coca has been recognized as a national monument.

Today, several sections of the castle are open for public exploration, including the chapel, the armory, and the central keep.

13. Château de Chenonceau, France

Immediately recognizable, the Château de Chenonceau features a distinct design with an arched bridge spanning over the River Cher. It ranks among the most renowned châteaux in the Loire Valley. The current structure dates back to the 16th century; however, a prior estate has been referenced in historical documents as early as the 11th century.

The exterior combines Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements, while the interior contains an exceptional collection of furniture, tapestries, and artwork.

The chateau is enveloped by expansive woodlands, complete with a magnificent castle park that enhances its allure. The unique design of this chateau affords ample opportunities for hours of delightful exploration.

14. The Alcázar of Seville, Spain

Having gained further acclaim from films such as Lawrence of Arabia, Kingdom of Heaven, and the popular series Game of Thrones, the Alcázar of Seville stands as one of the most frequented attractions in Spain and the city of Seville.

This alcázar was constructed for Christian king Peter of Castile on the site of a former Abbadid Muslim fortress. Similar to the Alcázar of Segovia, this site is an excellent representation of Mudéjar architecture.

One of the most notable features within the alcazar complex is the Patio de las Doncellas courtyard, distinguished by its breathtaking tiled plinths. The 14th-century Salón de Audiencias continues to serve as the royal reception area, now available for public viewing through guided tours.

The alcázar remains an active royal palace, making it one of the oldest operating royal residences in the world.

15. Burg Kreuzenstein, Austria

Often confused with Burg Lichtenstein, the location for the film The Three Musketeers, Burg Kreuzenstein appears as though it has emerged from a fantastical realm, rich with enchantment and wonder.

Located a few miles north of Vienna, this castle is easily accessible and has become a favored tourist destination within the country.

The current structure was erected atop the ruins of an earlier castle; interestingly, during its reconstruction, components from other medieval sites across Europe were acquired and integrated into the castle’s construction.

Numerous films and television series have featured this castle as a filming location.