15 Breathtaking Castles Around the World You Simply Have to See to Believe
Have you been wondering what It’s Like to Live in a Castle?
Step inside the world of kings and queens, where towering fortresses, grand palaces, and epic battlements tell tales of resilience, royalty, and architectural prowess mastery. Since the castles have been the symbols of power and ingenuity, they dominated for hundreds of years and have intriguing histories to explore.
Many of these incredible landmarks, like the majestic Château de Versailles, which attracts almost 10 million visitors a year, or Edinburgh Castle, which has swiftly established itself as a hot property in the tourist market with over 2 million visitors a year, continue to attract holidaymakers around the globe.
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a fairy tale, here are 15 breathtaking castles that will send you back to a time of knights, monarchs, and unforgettable stories. Ready to unlock the secrets of history? Your next adventure awaits.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Featuring its soaring pinnacles and incredible mountain backdrop, Neuschwanstein Castle looks like it came straight from a storybook. Like Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland, this is a 19th-century masterpiece of the Romanesque Revival style, built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, on whose designs it was based.
With visits above 1.4 million annually, Neuschwanstein is a must-see for architecture or history buffs. Autumn is the best time to visit because you can see the castle next to the fantastic fall foliage of the Bavarian Alps.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
As imposing as it is historically, Edinburgh Castle dominates Scotland’s capital skyline. This centuries-old fortress perched on Castle Rock has also been a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison.
Today, it is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the famed Stone of Destiny. Don’t miss the 1 o’clock gun salute or the dazzling panoramic views of Edinburgh from the castle walls.
Himeji Castle, Japan
One of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, Himeji Castle, is a striking example of Japanese castle design. Since 1333, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been so beautiful that its pristine white exterior has been likened to a bird in flight.
More than just attractive, Himeji was ingeniously designed for defense, with twisting pathways to confuse invaders. Of course, the castle is enchanting at any time, but it is even more so if you visit during the cherry blossom season.
Peleș Castle, Romania
Located in the Carpathian Mountains, near Braşov, Peleş Castle is eye-catching. It was initially constructed in the 19th century as a summer retreat for Romania’s King Carol I, whose Gothic Revival and Neo-Renaissance architecture make it one of Europe’s most breathtaking castles.
Aside from its intricate wood carvings and stained-glass interiors, the surrounding gardens and mountain views are equally unforgettable.
Castle of the Moors, Portugal
High above the lovely town of Sintra, the Castle of the Moors has glorious views over valleys of deeply wooded, pretty villages and out to the distant Atlantic Ocean.
This stronghold was built in the 8th century during the Arab occupation of Portugal when Moorish architecture perfectly blended with the surrounding nature. An average of 500,000 people visit this stronghold annually to admire its views and explore the castle’s history and extraordinary architecture.
Today, it remains a testament to the influence of the Moors’ culture on Portuguese cultural heritage. Where there’s history, there’s nature, and you won’t find a prettier place to visit.
Prague Castle, Czech Republic
Prague Castle is a city in itself, occupying 750,000 square feet. Dating back to the 9th century, it is one of the oldest establishments of its type. Its rich history can be read in its fascinating mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque architecture.
St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace (Stare Mesto), and Golden Lane are inside. Of course, Guinness World Records knew it would be well served to earn the title of the world’s largest ancient castle.
Alhambra, Spain
Alhambra, the last Islamic kingdom in Spain, is perched atop the hills of Granada. The palaces, gardens, fortifications, and aqueducts of the Moorish empire constitute the most magnificent complex of this type in all their sumptuous Moorish grandeur.
With their stucco details and placid courtyards, Nasrid Palaces offer a glimpse into the kind of royal life that took place here. Just down the road, visitors can relax among the gardens of the former leisure retreat for Granada’s Muslim kings.
In 2023, over 2.6 million visitors visited Alhambra and Generalife, placing them amongst Spain’s most loved cultural treasures.
Boldt Castle, USA
Outside Alexandria Bay, New York, Boldt Castle is a romantic gem of the Early 20th Century. Millionaire hotelier George Boldt built it as a tribute to his wife. He said she died before the love story she shared with her husband was completed.
Today, the mansion is being restored quickly, allowing guests to experience a slice of its grand architecture and sweeping vistas of the Thousand Islands.
Château de Chambord, France
Château de Chambord is a French architectural masterpiece. It is one of the Loire Valley’s castles, commissioned by King Francis I, and a blend of the medieval and Renaissance styles.
It is an engineering marvel whose double helix staircase allegedly inspired Leonardo da Vinci. According to Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Château de Chambord inspired the castle of Disney’s Beast!
Bran Castle, Romania
While often associated with Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Bran Castle has more historical significance than horror. It is a 14th-century fortress and royal residence. Without the vampire lore, it is captivating, with its fairytale-like towers and Transylvanian views.
Please check out its museum exhibitions on Romanian royal history and culture.
Warwick Castle, England
Since opening to the public, Warwick Castle has woven its history, interactive exhibits, and live house into a tapestry of entertainment for its visitors.
At first, it was a wooden fort constructed by William the Conqueror in 1068, but it became the majestic stone building you can enter today. Families will love its jousting tournaments, dungeons, and falconry displays.
Mir Castle Complex, Belarus
It is a Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance fortress unlike any other. The Mir Castle Complex in Belarus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Belarusian Gothic architecture. It is also picturesque, with its moat and formal gardens.
Alcázar of Segovia, Spain
In Segovia, on the crag of a rock, stands the Alcázar, which resembles a ship’s bow. Initially, this was a Roman fort; later, this castle became a residence for Spanish royalty and a military academy.
In 1985, the Alcázar and Segovia’s Old Town and Aqueduct were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, underscoring its cultural and historical significance.
Lichtenstein Castle, Germany
A neo-Gothic jewel precariously jutting out from a cliff edge in the nice Swabian Alps is (my vote for if I had to choose) the lesser-known but equally enchanting castle. Its dramatic location and complex design make it a dream destination for off-the-beaten-path gems.
Béthune Castle, France
Béthune Castle stands in the shadow of olive groves and lavender fields. It seems like rustic Provence gussied up and camped out in your backyard. Its whimsical architecture and setting make it timeless in romance.
Each of these 15 castles has a story to tell that will carry with them centuries of culture, power, and artistry. What first castle will you visit? Find out about these architectural wonders and even create some magical memories. Plan your next destiny today.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.