10 European castles you must visit

May 19, 2024
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Europe is home to countless stunning castles, each with its own rich history and architectural beauty. Here are ten of the most notable castles across the continent:

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany: Perched on a rugged hill in Bavaria, Neuschwanstein is perhaps the most iconic castle in Europe, known for its fairy-tale-like appearance and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland: Dominating the skyline of Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh Castle is steeped in history, with parts of it dating back to the 12th century. It offers panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.

Château de Chambord, France: Located in the Loire Valley, Chambord is a masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture, known for its distinctive French-style turrets and grandiose design.

Prague Castle, Czech Republic: One of the largest castle complexes in the world, Prague Castle has been a symbol of Czech power and heritage for over a thousand years. It overlooks the city of Prague and the Vltava River.

Windsor Castle, England: As the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, Windsor Castle has been a royal residence for over 900 years. Situated in the English county of Berkshire, it is still used by the British royal family today.

Hohenzollern Castle, Germany: Perched atop Mount Hohenzollern in the Swabian Alps, this fairy-tale castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a symbol of German royalty.

Buda Castle, Hungary: Overlooking the Danube River in Budapest, Buda Castle is a historic palace complex that has served as the residence of Hungarian kings and now houses several museums and galleries.

Alcázar of Segovia, Spain: This medieval fortress, located in the Spanish city of Segovia, is renowned for its unique shape resembling the bow of a ship. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Predjama Castle, Slovenia: Built into the mouth of a cave in the Slovenian countryside, Predjama Castle is a remarkable feat of medieval engineering and offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland: Situated on a small island in the Scottish Highlands, Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland's most iconic landmarks, with its picturesque setting and dramatic silhouette against the backdrop of the sea and mountains.

These castles are not only architectural marvels but also symbols of Europe's rich history and cultural heritage, attracting visitors from around the world to marvel at their beauty and grandeur.