Planning the best castle tours in Europe or simply looking for the best castles to visit in Europe, this list covers iconic fortresses with fascinating stories, stunning views, and unforgettable experiences. From Germany’s enchanting Neuschwanstein to Scotland’s dramatic Edinburgh Castle, these are the best castles to see in Europe for history lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
Why Explore Europe’s Greatest Castles?
- Walk through centuries of history in beautifully preserved palaces and strongholds.
- Discover hidden gems and world-famous landmarks in one epic journey.
- Experience breathtaking landscapes—castles perched on cliffs, nestled in forests, or floating on lakes.
Here are the Top 10 Best Castles in Europe that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Top 10 Best Castles in Europe
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria is arguably one of the best castles to see in Europe. Set amidst the snowcapped Alps and lush forests, this 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace looks like it leapt straight from a storybook. Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the castle was inspired by operas by Richard Wagner and remains one of the most iconic examples of fairy tale architecture in the world.
Visitors can enjoy one of the best castle tours in Europe as they explore the grand Throne Hall, opulent bedrooms, and ornate frescoes that bring German legends to life. The interior, though unfinished, reveals Ludwig’s obsession with fantasy and escapism. Don’t miss the panoramic view from Marienbrücke Bridge, which offers postcard-worthy photos of the entire castle.
Neuschwanstein is also one of the best castles to visit in Europe during autumn when the surrounding forests explode in color. Accessible by train from Munich, it attracts over 1.3 million tourists each year and inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
2. Château de Chambord, France
Located in the Loire Valley, Château de Chambord is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and one of the best castles to visit in Europe. Built in the 16th century as a hunting lodge for King Francis I, it features an astonishing 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, and a famous double-helix staircase said to be influenced by Leonardo da Vinci.
Among the best castles in Europe, Chambord stands out for its perfect blend of medieval fortification and Italian Renaissance style. Visitors can take guided or self-paced audio tours, explore the lush French gardens, and climb to the terraces for stunning views of the estate. The estate also hosts exhibitions and equestrian shows throughout the year.
For travelers seeking the best castle tours in Europe, Chambord offers a rich immersion into royal French life, complete with moats, towers, and beautifully preserved chambers. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, or photography, this castle is a dream.
3. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Perched atop Castle Rock, a dormant volcanic plug, Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline of Scotland’s capital and is one of the best castles to see in Europe. With roots tracing back to the 12th century, it has played pivotal roles in Scottish history — from royal residences to military strongholds.
Among the best castles to visit in Europe, Edinburgh Castle is a living museum. Inside, you’ll find the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and the Great Hall, which echoes tales of kings, queens, and epic battles. The castle’s location provides panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond, especially from the Argyle Battery.
One of the best castle tours in Europe includes a walk through the Royal Palace, St. Margaret’s Chapel (the oldest building in Edinburgh), and the eerie dungeons that once held prisoners of war. Time your visit with the famous One O’Clock Gun firing or during the Edinburgh Military Tattoo festival for an unforgettable experience.
4. Pena Palace, Portugal
Located in Sintra, just outside Lisbon, Pena Palace is one of the most colorful and eclectic castles in Europe. Built in the 19th century, it is a prime example of Romanticism and stands proudly atop a mountain, making it one of the best castles to see in Europe for breathtaking views and unique architecture.
Painted in bold shades of red, yellow, and purple, Pena Palace is a fusion of Gothic, Moorish, and Manueline styles. Inside, visitors are transported back to the Portuguese royal era, with lavishly decorated rooms, antique furniture, and original royal quarters still intact.
Pena Palace is among the best castles to visit in Europe for those seeking both historical depth and whimsical charm. Strolling through its surrounding forested parklands reveals exotic plants and hidden paths, adding to the magical feel of the visit.
As one of the best castle tours in Europe, the guided route includes not just the palace interiors but also scenic viewpoints such as the Queen’s Terrace and the High Cross, which offer panoramic views of Sintra and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.
5. Bran Castle, Romania
Often dubbed “Dracula’s Castle,” Bran Castle in Transylvania is one of the best castles to visit in Europe for gothic allure and legends. Though not historically tied to Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Dracula, the castle’s medieval towers and shadowy corridors still exude eerie charm.
Built in the 14th century, Bran Castle served as a strategic fortress and later a royal residence. Visitors can explore narrow staircases, stone passageways, and rooms filled with Romanian art and Queen Marie’s personal items. The eerie ambiance, combined with misty Carpathian views, makes it one of the best castles to see in Europe for thrill-seekers.
For fans of spooky stories and medieval history, Bran Castle offers one of the best castle tours in Europe. Around Halloween, the castle hosts themed night tours and Dracula-inspired events that enhance the mystique of the place.
6. Alcázar of Segovia, Spain
The Alcázar of Segovia is one of Spain’s most distinctive castles and undeniably among the best castles in Europe. Shaped like the bow of a ship, the castle was originally built as a fortress but later transformed into a royal palace and military academy.
Located in the historic city of Segovia, the Alcázar is a marvel of Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance influences. Highlights of the visit include the Hall of Kings with its exquisite coffered ceiling, the Tower of John II with sweeping views, and the Royal Chamber adorned with medieval armor and tapestries.
This castle is not just a visual gem; it also played a significant role in Spanish history. It’s said to have inspired the design of Disney’s Cinderella Castle, making it one of the best castles to see in Europe for both history and fantasy lovers.
When considering the best castle tours in Europe, Segovia’s Alcázar is an unforgettable stop. Combine your visit with Segovia’s Roman aqueduct and Gothic cathedral for a full day of spectacular sightseeing.
7. Hohenzollern Castle, Germany
Situated atop Mount Hohenzollern in Baden-Württemberg, Hohenzollern Castle offers fairy tale beauty and historical significance. It’s one of the best castles to visit in Europe if you’re interested in Prussian royal history and panoramic alpine views.
The current structure, rebuilt in the 19th century, reflects neo-Gothic elegance with its soaring spires, grand courtyard, and richly adorned halls. Inside, the Treasury Room showcases royal artifacts, including King Frederick the Great’s uniform and crown.
Hohenzollern is among the best castles to see in Europe for its romantic silhouette and dramatic location. The fog that often surrounds the castle gives it a mystical, floating-in-the-sky appearance — perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Tours of Hohenzollern Castle are well-organized and among the best castle tours in Europe, often including exhibitions, seasonal events, and access to sections of the family’s private collection. The castle is especially magical during winter when snow blankets the surrounding forests.
8. De Haar Castle, Netherlands
Located near Utrecht, De Haar Castle (Kasteel de Haar) is the largest and one of the most luxurious castles in the Netherlands, making it one of the best castles to visit in Europe. With its dramatic towers, drawbridges, and manicured gardens, De Haar combines medieval charm with 19th-century elegance.
Originally built in the 14th century, De Haar Castle underwent a major restoration in the late 1800s under the guidance of famous Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers, who also designed Amsterdam’s Central Station and Rijksmuseum. The result is a romantic neo-Gothic masterpiece, complete with stained-glass windows, richly decorated interiors, and a grand ballroom.
De Haar Castle is undoubtedly one of the best castles to see in Europe, especially for those interested in both history and luxury. The castle has hosted several celebrities and royals over the years, including Brigitte Bardot and Coco Chanel, during glamorous parties held by the Van Zuylen family.
Visitors can explore lavish rooms filled with antique furniture, art collections, and family portraits. The castle grounds, spanning over 135 acres, include rose gardens, moats, and forested parks — perfect for a relaxing stroll.
For those seeking unique and immersive experiences, De Haar offers some of the best castle tours in Europe, including special themed events, exhibitions, and even seasonal fairs that bring the past to life in grand Dutch style.
9. Karlštejn Castle, Czech Republic
Just 30 km from Prague, Karlštejn Castle is a Gothic treasure nestled in the hills of the Czech Republic. Built in the 14th century by Emperor Charles IV to protect the Imperial Regalia, it’s among the best castles to visit in Europe for lovers of medieval architecture and royal intrigue.
The castle’s multi-level layout is symbolic, with each tier reflecting a different level of spiritual importance. Visitors can tour the Chapel of the Holy Cross, which contains stunning frescoes and semi-precious stones, and the Imperial Palace with its period furnishings.
Karlštejn Castle is one of the best castles to see in Europe for its authenticity and preserved medieval ambiance. The surrounding village, with its cobblestone streets and quaint cafes, adds to the charm of the experience.
As one of the best castle tours in Europe, the guided experience includes stories of royal secrets, relics, and legends that immerse you in Bohemian history.
10. Eltz Castle, Germany
Hidden in the Moselle Valley’s forested hills, Eltz Castle is a genuine medieval treasure that has remained in the same family for over 850 years. Its fairy tale setting and well-preserved structure make it one of the best castles in Europe for an authentic and peaceful visit.
Eltz Castle has never been destroyed, preserving its original 12th-century towers and medieval artifacts. Inside, visitors can admire centuries-old furniture, tapestries, and armor collections. The picturesque exterior, with its timber framing and stone towers, is equally stunning.
For travelers seeking the best castle tours in Europe, Eltz offers a deeply personal and historical experience. The setting is intimate, and the tour is rich with stories passed down through generations. The walk through the forest to reach the castle only adds to its mystical appeal.
Among the best castles to see in Europe, Eltz Castle remains a hidden gem worth discovering — especially for those looking to escape the crowds.
