Europe is the continent that had the most influence on our modern history. All those battles, victories, smiles, tears, and failures indicated how our world is shaped now, and the most interesting part is that it all has happened behind the walls in some gorgeous castles throughout Europe.
Visiting European castles is like witnessing history coming to life again. Not all the magical stuff that happens in the novels are fictional! Visit European castles and you’ll know where the imagination and influence behind the novels and TV series come from! In this post, we’ll be talking about the 12 best European castles to visit right now.
Rocca Guaita and Torre Cesta, San Marino
Built: the 11th century
San Marino, one of the smallest countries in the world, is completely surrounded by Italy. This country is totally worth visiting if you’re in Italy. When in San Marino, visiting the iconic “Rocca Guaita” and “Torre Cesta” castles is a must! These beautiful castles are easily accessible by car and will give you the best bird-eye view of beautiful San Marino.
Castle Stalker, Scotland
Built: around 1320
Do you remember “Monty Python” and the gorgeous freaky castle in it? There you go! You already know Castle Stalker.
Being about 1 ¹⁄₂ miles north-east of Port Appin in Scotland, this four-story tower house is set on a tidal islet on Loch Laich, an inlet off Loch Linnhe.
Sintra, Portugal
Being only 45 minutes away from the capital, Lisbon, the surrounding castles, palaces, and homes are a must-see for a full day if you’re visiting Lisbon, Portugal. They are extremely gorgeous that make you feel like they’re popping out of a fairy tale!
Winter Palace, Russia
Built: late 1730s and 1837
Winter Palace was the official residence for the Russian Emperors for about 200 years until 1917. This castle is one of the most history-rich castles in all of Russia and totally worth paying a visit if you’re surfing around St Petersburg in Russia.
Caernarfon Castle, Wales
Built: 1283
Not too far away from Snowdonia national park, this 1000 years old castle in beautiful Wales is a must-see if you’re planning to visit Snowdonia. The castle’s project was first started by the Romans, but been finished much much later! Don’t forget to visit the famous King and Queen’s Gates and explore the local area too.
Caernarfon Castle On Google maps
Mont Saint-Michel, France
Built: the 11th century
You can’t be exploring Northern France and miss Mont Saint-Michel castle! Being one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, this castle is simply too stunning to pass! Just make sure you visit it early in the morning before it gets too crowded. You can use those free shuttles to the castle itself.
Mont Saint-Michel On Google maps
Alhambra, Spain
Built: mid-13th century
Being a mixture of Islamic and European architecture, Alhambra is a masterpiece that attracts countless visitors to itself each year. Only make sure to book your tickets early (at least a few days in advance) if you want to gain full access to the grounds and buildings.
Bran Castle, Romania
Built: 1377
Ever wondered where the inspiration behind stunning Disney castles comes from? Bingo! Bran Castle in Transylvania is exactly like watching a Disney movie! This Romanian castle is simply too good to be true!
Bodrum Castle, Turkey
Built: 1521
Located in Bodrum, the queen of stunning beaches, visiting this amazing castle is like hitting the jackpot since it also acts as the Underwater Archaeology Museum. The museum displays a late Bronze age ship that’s been discovered in 1982.
Hohenzollern Castle, Germany
Built: 1867
At 2,805 feet above sea level, Hohenzollern Castle in Germany seems to be the ruler of the sky as the clouds are usually floating beneath this magical castle. No wonder why Hohenzollern Castle is among the most visited castles in Germany.
Hohenzollern Castle On Google maps
Predjama Castle, Slovenia
Built: 1570
If you’re a castle lover, Predjama Castle in Slovenia should be on top of your bucket list of castles to visit before you die! Predjama Castle was built into the side of a 400-foot cliff. With requisite dungeons, secret tunnels, and quite a history full of blood behind it, this Castle is worth to be seen as a destination, especially during the annual medieval tournament, which is being held each July.
Predjama Castle On Google maps
Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria
Built: 1075
Once home to kings, archbishops, and prisoners, Hohenwerfen Castle in Austria is now a popular tourist destination. Those interested to see a fabulous castle, sitting high above Austria’s Salzachtal Valley amid the dramatic peaks of the Berchtesgaden Alps, get attracted to this castle. It is also the site of Austria’s foremost falconry center, where the royal hunting art is on full display with daily demonstrations.