Europe is home to some of the most magnificent castles, each with a unique story that you can unfold when you visit. Castles, during their time of existence, were typically used in battles to provide a base for each army and a hideout in which they could spy on their enemies.
Every castle across the world is famous for a different battle or time period, and by studying the way in which they were built and used, we can understand more about the history of earlier centuries. It’s common to find castles secluded amongst fields of greenery and forest or along coastlines where they previously guarded against seafaring threats. Their unique and remote locations make them intriguing landmarks to visit.
In Europe, in particular, a region that has an impressive past of warfare and powerful rulers, you will find a portfolio of castles which are open to visit. As well as exploring Europe’s famous castles for their rich history, many visitors are captivated by their breathtaking beauty, which is often used in famous artwork and paintings.
As much as admiring a castle from a canvas print is still very much impressive, visiting Europe’s castles in person is an experience that is both interesting and inspiring. If you’re planning to travel to Europe this year, here are the best castles to discover.
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
The Neuschwanstein Castle, located in Bavaria, is a 19th-century castle that sits towards the very south of Germany. You may recognise its distinctive look from the 1959 Disney classic ‘Sleeping Beauty’ as the real-life Bavaria castle inspired the famous tower in the film. Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle is visited by explorers across the world for its breathtaking look that’s perfectly complimented by Alpine scenery.
What makes this castle entirely different to others is that, despite its medieval architecture that looks centuries-old, during the time of its reign, it was a highly advanced structure which had running water and even central heating. When you visit the castle, you can explore each of its 15 rooms and castle ruins that reach up to 65m tall. Visiting hours run all throughout the week and require you to purchase a ticket for their guided tours that run all throughout the day.
Pena Palace, Portugal
Located along the Portuguese Riviera is the Pena Palace, a majestic palace that quietly sits above the historic town of Sintra. Pena Palace is the perfect castle to visit with family and friends because of its crayola-coloured architecture, with something different to explore at every turn of its walls. The castle was ruled by a German prince who was inspired by the Romanticism movement at the time and wanted the palace to reflect the very emotion and imagination that he was inspired by.
The Pena Palace is famous for its iconic mix of different styles of architecture that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Its structure features a combination of Islamic tilework, vibrant stained glass windows and castle-like spires. The palace was last used officially in 1910, just before the end of the Portuguese monarchy, which left the inspiring castle to be transformed into a museum which is explored and loved by millions of explorers from all across the globe. You can reach the castle in just an hour’s train ride from Portugal’s capital, Lisbon.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Edinburgh castle is situated on castle rock, a region that has been known to be inhabited by humans since the iron age. The iconic landmark is respected for being history’s most defended castle, surviving a total of 26 attacks throughout the entirety of its history.
Today, Edinburgh castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country, as well as an active military base and home to the Scottish Crown Jewels. When visiting the castle, you can also explore the oldest building in Edinburgh, also known as St. Margaret’s Chapel, which was built in the early 12th century as a private place of worship and an escape for the royal family.
Castello Aragonese, Italy
Ischia is a serene, tucked-away island located off the west coast of southern Italy and is home to Castello Aragonese. This historic structure is nothing like any other European castle, as it sits upon a volcanic rocky islet that travels across the Tyrrhenian Sea and connects to the mainland of Ischia. Believe it or not, the Castello Aragonese is the home of the Mattera family, who purchased the fortress back in 1912.
The castle was built in 474 BC, and at the time was used as a defence against pirates travelling nearby. Later, in the 19th century, it was transformed into a political prison that captured activists who protested for the country’s union. Even though the castle is home to descendants of the Mattera family, you can still visit the historical treasure seven days a week, all year round. The site now features a number of scenic restaurants and cafes that overlook the castle’s walls to the pristine blue sea.
Discover Europe’s Most Remarkable Castles
From the fairytale towers of Neuschwanstein Castle to the dramatic coastal setting of Castello Aragonese, Europe’s castles offer far more than beautiful architecture. Each one tells a story of royalty, conflict, ambition and cultural change, giving visitors the chance to step into the past while exploring some of the continent’s most impressive landscapes.
Whether you are fascinated by medieval history, inspired by grand palaces or simply looking for a memorable addition to your itinerary, these castles deserve a place on your European travel list. Whichever destination you choose, visiting in person provides an experience that no photograph, painting or history book can fully recreate.
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