Castles have long captured our imaginations, with their towering turrets, grand halls, and hidden passageways. They evoke images of knights in shining armor, damsels in distress, and brave dragonslayers. But castles are more than just the setting for our favorite fairy tales. They are also real places with rich histories and cultures.
If you’re dreaming of a fairytale getaway, be sure to add these 12 magnificent castles to your bucket list:
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle is the quintessential fairytale castle. It’s perched on a hilltop in the Bavarian Alps, surrounded by lush forests and sparkling lakes. The castle was built in the late 19th century by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who was inspired by the fairy tales of Richard Wagner.
Neuschwanstein Castle is open to the public and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s also a popular filming location for movies and TV shows, including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Great Escape.
2. Château de Chambord, France
Château de Chambord, France
Château de Chambord is one of the most iconic castles in the world. It’s located in the Loire Valley of France, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. The castle was built in the early 16th century by King Francis I and is known for its elaborate architecture and stunning grounds.
Château de Chambord is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore the castle’s extensive forest.
3. Prague Castle, Czech Republic
Prague Castle, Czech Republic
Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle complex in the world. It’s located in the heart of Prague, Czech Republic, and has been the seat of Czech rulers for over a thousand years.
Prague Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Visitors can explore the castle’s many attractions, including St. Vitus Cathedral, the Golden Lane, and the Old Royal Palace.
4. Alcazar of Segovia, Spain
Alcazar of Segovia, Spain
The Alcazar of Segovia is a stunning castle located on a hilltop in the city of Segovia, Spain. The castle was built in the 12th century and has served as a royal residence, a prison, and a military academy.
The Alcazar of Segovia is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also climb to the top of the castle tower for stunning views of the city.
5. Bojnice Castle, Slovakia
Bojnice Castle, Slovakia
Bojnice Castle is a romantic castle located in the town of Bojnice, Slovakia. The castle was built in the 13th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
Bojnice Castle is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also explore the castle’s museum, which houses a collection of furniture, paintings, and other artifacts.
6. Pena Palace, Portugal
Pena Palace, Portugal
Pena Palace is a colorful castle located on a hilltop in the Sintra Mountains of Portugal. The castle was built in the 19th century and is known for its eclectic mix of architectural styles.
Pena Palace is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also explore the castle’s gardens, which are home to a variety of plants and flowers from all over the world.
7. Bran Castle, Romania
Bran Castle, Romania
Bran Castle is also known as Dracula’s Castle, and it’s located in the Transylvania region of Romania. The castle was built in the 14th century and is known for its Gothic architecture and imposing presence.
Bran Castle is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also learn about the castle’s history and its connection to the legend of Dracula.
8. Himeji Castle, Japan
Himeji Castle, Japan
Himeji Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Japanese castle architecture. The castle was built in the 14th century and is known for its white exterior and intricate design.
Himeji Castle is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also climb
- Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland
Eilean Donan Castle is a picturesque castle located on a tidal island in Loch Duich, Scotland. The castle was built in the 13th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
Eilean Donan Castle is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also take a boat trip to the island and enjoy the stunning views of the castle and the surrounding mountains.
- Castel del Monte, Italy
Castel del Monte is a unique castle located in the Apulia region of Italy. The castle was built in the 13th century and is known for its octagonal shape and octagonal towers.
Castel del Monte is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also explore the castle’s museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the castle’s history.
- Chenonceau Castle, France
Chenonceau Castle is a Renaissance castle located in the Loire Valley of France. The castle is known for its unique design, which spans the Cher River.
Chenonceau Castle is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also explore the castle’s gardens, which are home to a variety of plants and flowers.
- Hohenschwangau Castle, Germany
Hohenschwangau Castle is a Neo-Gothic castle located in the Bavarian Alps of Germany. The castle was built in the 19th century by King Maximilian II of Bavaria.
Hohenschwangau Castle is open to the public and offers guided tours of the castle and its grounds. Visitors can also learn about the castle’s history and its connection to King Ludwig II of Bavaria, who built Neuschwanstein Castle nearby.
These are just a few of the many magnificent fairytale castles around the world. If you’re looking for a truly magical experience, be sure to add one of these castles to your travel bucket list.