25 Fairytale Castles In Europe You Can Actually Step Inside
Europe’s landscape is dotted with castles that seem straight out of storybooks—moats, turrets, secret gardens, and all.
But these aren’t just pretty façades; many of them invite you in to roam royal halls, climb ancient towers, and even spend the night. Imagine sipping wine where kings once dined or waking up to views that inspired legends.
Which castle would you explore first if you had the key to them all?
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Every dreamer’s ultimate fantasy, Neuschwanstein Castle rises like a crown above Bavaria. The spires and towers look just as magical in person as in any photograph.
Where artists once found inspiration for Disney’s sleeping beauty, I find wonder walking through halls drenched in storybook charm. Tucked away in the German Alps, this place feels like stepping onto a movie set.
Did you know it was commissioned by Ludwig II, a king whose love for fantasies turned bricks into legends?
2. Pena Palace, Portugal
If bright colors spark your imagination, Pena Palace dazzles from every angle. Its red, yellow, and purple towers look straight from a painter’s brush.
How the palace mixes Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance styles surprises me with each corner I turn. The gardens below promise hidden paths and secret grottos.
Fun fact: King Ferdinand II built this palace as a romantic getaway, making every visit feel like a royal retreat.
3. Château de Chambord, France
When you first lay eyes on Château de Chambord, its swirling spires and vast moat feel almost unreal. The French Renaissance flair stirs the senses, inviting you inside.
There’s a staircase here that Leonardo da Vinci supposedly inspired. As I wander, every stone whispers of royal feasts and secret liaisons.
This grand vision was a hunting lodge for French kings—imagine the stories sealed within these walls.
4. Hohenzollern Castle, Germany
Where clouds hug the hilltops, Hohenzollern Castle towers over the countryside. A sense of mystery lingers as I climb toward the gates.
It’s a living postcard, with grand halls and panoramic views stretching to the horizon. The Hohenzollern family’s legacy echoes in every stone.
Did you know the present castle is the third built here, blending history and fantasy on one magical summit?
5. Trakai Island Castle, Lithuania
Though some castles are built on cliffs, Trakai Island Castle floats gently on its own lake. The red-brick towers beckon me from across the water.
Stepping over the wooden bridge, I’m swept into centuries-old tales of dukes and knights. The reflection in the lake doubles the fairytale effect.
Where medieval festivals light up the grounds each summer, history comes alive for everyone who visits.
6. Alcázar of Segovia, Spain
Some believe the Alcázar of Segovia inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Its ship-like silhouette is unforgettable from every angle.
If you climb the tower, panoramic views stretch across Segovia. Each hall tells tales of Spanish royalty and ancient heroes.
A fun tidbit: this was once a royal palace, prison, and military academy—each chapter adding layers to its legend.
7. Château de Chillon, Switzerland
Where the Alps meet Lake Geneva, I find Château de Chillon standing strong on its rocky island. It looks like a story come to life.
Inside, ancient frescoes and dungeons reveal secrets of dukes and poets. The water laps gently at the walls, adding to the serenity.
Lord Byron even carved his name here—proof that legends and travelers alike fall under this castle’s spell.
8. Peleș Castle, Romania
If fairy tales had real addresses, Peleș Castle would be high on the list. The turrets and carved balconies burst from the Carpathian forest like something out of a painting.
Walking inside, I’m surrounded by stained glass, gilded woodwork, and princely treasures. Each room shows off the splendor of Romania’s royal past.
Did you know it was the first European castle fully powered by electricity? Modern magic blends with age-old grandeur.
9. Eltz Castle, Germany
Hidden deep within a lush valley, Eltz Castle feels like a secret story waiting for you to step inside. Its stone towers have stood the test of time for over 850 years.
Inside, the treasures of eight centuries fill the halls. Family portraits and ancient armor tell stories that captivate my imagination.
Unlike many castles, Eltz has remained in the same family for generations—truly a living legacy.
10. Predjama Castle, Slovenia
How does a castle look when it’s wedged right into a cliff? Predjama Castle astonishes me with its daring architecture and dramatic views.
Passages wind through rock and stone, creating secret tunnels and hidden chambers. I love exploring the legends of rebel knight Erazem Lueger.
With every step, this Slovenian marvel proves that reality can be stranger than fiction.
11. Bojnice Castle, Slovakia
Where would you host a royal ball? Bojnice Castle, with its pastel turrets and romantic towers, always makes me think of grand celebrations.
Inside, the rooms overflow with gilded ceilings and painted walls. The grounds even host a yearly festival of ghosts and fairies.
Did you know this castle’s roots go back to the 12th century? History and fantasy walk hand in hand here.
12. Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark
How often do you see a palace reflected perfectly in water? Frederiksborg Castle’s grandeur stands out among Denmark’s treasures.
Each hall tells the story of Danish kings, with baroque gardens that feel straight from a royal daydream. The ornate chapel is a highlight for me.
Fun fact: this is the largest Renaissance castle in Scandinavia, and every inch rewards closer inspection.
13. Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria
When falcons swoop above Hohenwerfen Castle, the scene feels alive with medieval energy. Perched atop a rocky crag, the fortress stands watch over the Salzach Valley.
The echo of armor and ages-old traditions fills the air. Guided tours reveal dungeons, towers, and stories of daring escapes.
This castle even hosts thrilling falconry shows, where history quite literally takes flight.
14. Burg Kreuzenstein, Austria
Have you ever seen a castle built from pieces of other castles? Burg Kreuzenstein is a fascinating patchwork of medieval wonders.
Every corridor here feels like a treasure hunt, with armor, tapestries, and secret staircases. The wooded setting adds to the mystique.
Where Hollywood has filmed epic movies, you, too, can play the hero or heroine for an afternoon.
15. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Are you ready to stand on the edge of history? Edinburgh Castle’s powerful silhouette rises above the city, calling adventurers and dreamers alike.
Cannons, crown jewels, and panoramic city views await inside. The sound of bagpipes drifts through ancient halls.
Legends say the castle has been a royal home since the Iron Age—it’s Scotland’s beating historical heart.
16. Buda Castle, Hungary
If you crave panoramic cityscapes, Buda Castle is your place. The courtyards and domes offer sweeping views over Budapest and the Danube.
Inside, art museums and royal apartments hold treasures from centuries past. The castle’s golden lights dazzle after sunset.
This hilltop marvel has survived wars and rebirths, making every visit a journey through time.
17. Bran Castle, Romania
Where legends and shadowy forests meet, Bran Castle looms with a gothic aura. Many call it Dracula’s Castle, but the real tales inside are even richer.
If you love mysterious hallways and ancient weapons, this place excites your senses. The Transylvanian setting adds a wild touch.
Did you know the connection to Dracula is mostly myth, yet the atmosphere is pure storybook?
18. Český Krumlov Castle, Czech Republic
How about a castle town that looks like a living painting? Český Krumlov Castle weaves through the heart of a charming Czech village.
Climb the ornate tower for dazzling views, then wander through halls filled with art and history. The baroque theater feels like a stage for fairy tales.
It’s easy to lose track of time wandering its magical gardens and winding paths.
19. Mir Castle, Belarus
Did you ever wish for a castle that seemed to float on water? Mir Castle’s reflection shimmers in the pond, doubling its fairytale charm.
Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles mingle in every room, and I’m entranced by the colorful frescoes. The parklands invite peaceful strolls.
This UNESCO treasure once protected noble families, and now it welcomes every curious visitor.
20. Conwy Castle, Wales
When I cross the stone bridge into Conwy Castle, it’s as though I’ve stepped into medieval Wales. The towering walls offer views over the river and rolling hills.
Spiral staircases lead to battlements with windswept vistas. The fortress once defended a crucial kingdom.
Where echoes of ancient battles remain, today’s visitors find excitement and awe at every turn.
21. Arundel Castle, England
How do you picture a classic English castle? Arundel’s imposing towers and lush rose gardens create the perfect scene.
Inside, tapestries and armor line the halls, while sunlight pours through stained-glass windows. The library is a haven for book lovers.
Did you know the castle has been home to the Dukes of Norfolk for centuries? It’s living nobility in every sense.
22. Trsat Castle, Croatia
Where the Adriatic sparkles below, Trsat Castle invites you to climb its ancient ramparts. The sea breeze brings history to life here.
Local legends speak of dragons and brave defenders. I love the panoramic views stretching all the way to the distant islands.
Today, concerts and open-air events fill the old courtyards with vibrant energy.
23. Vianden Castle, Luxembourg
This is where fairy tales and reality meet: Vianden Castle towers above the forest, its walls echoing with centuries of history.
Step through thick wooden doors and you’ll find grand halls and medieval armor displays. The hilltop vantage point grants breathtaking views.
Each summer, medieval festivals bring knights and minstrels back to the castle’s storied grounds.
24. Malbork Castle, Poland
Are you fascinated by knights and crusaders? Malbork Castle is Europe’s biggest brick fortress and was once the Teutonic Knights’ stronghold.
Inside, vast halls display swords, armor, and religious relics. The medieval kitchens always capture my imagination.
This castle took nearly 150 years to build and stands as a monument to determination and grandeur.
25. Lichtenstein Castle, Germany
With its sky-high perch and slender spires, Lichtenstein Castle looks like it was plucked from a bedtime story. The mist in the valley only adds to the effect.
Small but striking, the Gothic architecture is beautifully preserved inside and out. The drawbridge creaks underfoot as you enter.
Built in the 19th century, it was inspired by a popular novel and captures the spirit of German romanticism.