14 Castles in Europe That Feel Like They’re from Another World
When you visit Europe, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a storybook setting. This region’s breathtaking landscapes stretch from snow-covered peaks to lush green valleys and host some of the world’s most beautiful castles.
This list of 14 European castles will capture your imagination, whether you love exploring new places, learning about history, or dreaming about magical towers and fairy tales. Scroll down to discover magnificent wonders and mystical experiences that will make you question if it’s all real.
Every castle has a distinct narrative, from historical battles to legendary royal love stories. Prepare to experience these architectural masterpieces, which have been extracted from a dream world.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle is the ultimate fairy-tale structure in Bavaria because it directly inspired Disney’s animated castles. The dramatic spires of Neuschwanstein Castle, which “Mad” King Ludwig II built, inspired Disneyland to create Sleeping Beauty Castle.
The castle stands atop a hill, where the Bavarian Alps serve as a stunning backdrop that photographers find irresistible. The Marienbrücke Bridge offers an incredible view of the castle, nestled in lush green woods or blanketed with seasonal snow.
Bran Castle, Romania
Want to experience gothic atmospheres and explore vampire-related mythology? Bran Castle stands amidst the Transylvanian mountains as “Dracula’s Castle” and is known as the legendary home of Vlad the Impaler, although historians question this link. Navigate through its chilling corridors, but gaze through its gothic windows for a touch of haunting allure.
Mont Saint-Michel, France
Is it a medieval fortress? Is it an island like a tidal island? It’s both! Mont Saint-Michel exudes an otherworldly aura. The castle-like abbey stands prominently above the ocean near Normandy’s coast and transforms into an island during high tide. The ancient gates open onto a network of cobblestone streets and Gothic buildings, all covered in stone.
Pena Palace, Portugal
If castles were to possess distinct personalities, then Pena Palace would stand out in Sintra as the eccentric relative adorned in vibrant shades.
Perched on the hills of Sintra, this colorful masterpiece displays vibrant yellows and reds while blending Manueline and Moorish architectural elements. The breathtaking forest vistas, along with softly colored rooms, create an enchanting, dreamlike atmosphere.
Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland
Eilean Donan Castle represents the epitome of mysterious romance. The iconic Scottish stronghold of Eilean Donan Castle rests on a small tide-bound island where three lochs converge to form a picturesque postcard landmark.
Fun fact: The castle is one of Europe’s most photographed landmarks; thus, capturing it demands your best photography skills.
Eltz Castle, Germany
Eltz Castle stands as a picture-perfect fairy-tale fortress within the Moselle Valley. It remains in the care of the Eltz family, who have maintained its legacy over 33 generations.
The rustic stone towers and timber-framed walls of Eltz Castle emerge from its forest setting, resembling a scene from a Brothers Grimm story. Walk the cobblestone paths around the castle to fully experience its fairy-tale atmosphere.
Alhambra, Spain
The Alhambra in Granada combines royal splendor with Moorish artistic influence. It boasts endless gardens and classic Islamic art carvings, with columns that present a timelessness that makes it feel more like a palace than a fortress.
The Alhambra transforms into an enchanting spectacle during sunset, when light plays across its courtyards while reflecting from shallow pools.
Château de Chenonceau, France
Château de Chenonceau stands out from typical castles since it appears suspended above the River Cher. The “Ladies’ Castle” derives its historical significance from the influential women who owned it, including Catherine de’ Medici and Louise Dupin. The site’s refined arches and polished gardens make it essential for those who study the Renaissance.
Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria
Hohenwerfen Castle stands high over the Salzach Valley, serving as a skyward sentinel while combining medieval fortifications with breathtaking Alpine vistas. The castle walls, which have stood since the 11th century, evoke cinematic medieval combat scenes through their impressive stone construction.
Fun fact: A portion of the movie The Sound of Music was filmed close to this location.
Lichtenstein Castle, Germany
This cliff-clinging castle is every romantic’s dream. Lichtenstein Castle features spindly towers and bridges that are based on a 19th-century novel.
Tip for travelers? Visitors will find the fall season most dramatic as the forest surrounding the site turns golden red.
Schwerin Castle, Germany
Do you yearn for a majestic lakeside palace suited for kings? The regal Schwerin Castle stands among tranquil northern German lakes, earning its reputation as the “Neuschwanstein of the North.” The magical walking tour features opulent gilded domes alongside elaborate garden paths that exude splendor.
Bled Castle, Slovenia
The scenic beauty of Lake Bled attracts many visitors, but Bled Castle’s position, 130 meters above the lake, should not be overlooked. The castle walls offer unmatched views, while its museum and wine cellar provide memorable experiences.
Pro-tip: Take time to savor a piece of Kremšnita (a regional creamy dessert) following your climb.
Hochosterwitz Castle, Austria
Hochosterwitz Castle is considered the ultimate fortress due to its imposing location atop a 150-meter-high cliff in Austria. Its claim to fame is that the castle features fourteen fortified gates, ensuring its near-impenetrable defense, which has inspired awe among visitors since the medieval period.
Conwy Castle, Wales
Do you want medieval towers by the sea? Conwy Castle is your pick. The Welsh landmark, which earned UNESCO World Heritage status, resembles an authentic knightly fortress due to its vast battlements and panoramic coastal vistas.
Edward I directed the construction of this site during his Welsh conquest in the late 13th century to demonstrate military power alongside architectural genius. When visitors walk along them, the walls reverberate with whispers of historic battles and royal secrets.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
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