Castles are more than just fairytale landmarks—they are historical treasures filled with stories of royalty, battles, and legends. Here are 10 stunning castles around the world that you can explore in real life.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany 🇩🇪
✔️ Inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
✔️ Located in the Bavarian Alps with breathtaking views.
✔️ Best time to visit: Spring and fall for fewer crowds.
2. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland 🇬🇧
✔️ Overlooks the city from Castle Rock.
✔️ Home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
✔️ Visit during the Edinburgh Military Tattoo for an unforgettable experience.
3. Château de Chambord, France 🇫🇷
✔️ A masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture.
✔️ Surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens.
✔️ Originally built as a hunting lodge for King Francis I.
4. Windsor Castle, England 🇬🇧
✔️ The oldest and largest occupied castle in the world.
✔️ Official residence of the British royal family.
✔️ Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
5. Himeji Castle, Japan 🇯🇵
✔️ Japan’s most spectacular feudal castle.
✔️ Nicknamed the White Heron Castle due to its white walls.
✔️ Survived wars and natural disasters for over 400 years.
6. Prague Castle, Czech Republic 🇨🇿
✔️ A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning architecture.
✔️ Houses St. Vitus Cathedral and the Czech crown jewels.
✔️ Visit in the evening for magical city views.
7. Bran Castle, Romania 🇷🇴
✔️ Known as Dracula’s Castle, linked to the Vlad the Impaler legend.
✔️ Perched on a dramatic hilltop in Transylvania.
✔️ Offers mystical and gothic architecture for horror fans.
8. Pena Palace, Portugal 🇵🇹
✔️ A colorful fairytale castle in Sintra.
✔️ A mix of Gothic, Moorish, and Renaissance styles.
✔️ Visit early in the morning for the best photos.
9. Alhambra, Spain 🇪🇸
✔️ A magnificent Moorish palace and fortress.
✔️ Features stunning courtyards, fountains, and Islamic architecture.
✔️ Best visited at sunset for incredible golden views.
10. Mont Saint-Michel, France 🇫🇷
✔️ A breathtaking island castle with medieval charm.
✔️ The tide surrounds the fortress, making it look like a floating castle.
✔️ Explore the abbey and narrow medieval streets.
Final Thoughts
From fairytale-like castles to medieval fortresses, these destinations let you step back in time and experience history up close.