Top 7 European Castles To Visit On Your Next Trip

Built in the 14th century, Rheinstein Castle boasts spectacular views of the Rhine as it towers 270 feet above the river in the Lorelei Valley. With a working drawbridge over a moat, beautiful stained glass windows, and gothic interiors, this is the archetypal medieval castle.

Don’t forget to take a look at its 500-year old Burgundy vine that still produces grapes.

View Rheinstein Castle during the 15 day Splendours of Europe river cruise.

One of the most frequented Europe castles is the Buda Castle of Hungary. Situated in arguably the most beautiful city of the continent – Budapest, the turquoise domed castle was built in the mid-13th century and encompasses the 18th century baroque Royal Palace.

The Budapest History Museum and Hungarian National Gallery are housed inside the castle walls.

Visit Buda Castle during the 8 day Danube Explorer river cruise.

Prague Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in the world and used to be the seat of Czech royalty and the official residence of the head of state.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site traces its roots to 9th century and is the most visited site in picturesque Prague. The castle complex is home to various museums, art galleries, exhibitions and gardens that will keep you exploring for hours. The stunning St. Vitus Cathedral housed in the complex is where the coronation of Czech royalty took place.

See Prague Castle during the 18 day Prague Highlights & Splendours of Europe river cruise.

Whether you gravitate towards Bran Castle due to its reputation as ‘Dracula’s Castle’, or simply because of its striking beauty, Romania’s Bran Castle is one of the most spectacular of Europe castles.

Perched atop a hill in Transylvania, and often wrapped in an eerie mist on cold nights, Bran Castle is perfectly convincing as Count Dracula’s abode. However, there is no evidence to suggest that Dracula’s writer, Bram Stoker ever knew about its existence.

Spooky or not, Bran Castle stands out for its dramatic setting and arresting beauty. 

Bled Castle is the oldest castle in Slovenia and undoubtedly one of the best European castles in terms of location and scenery. Overlooking Lake Bled, the castle is perched 100 metres above the glacial waters, and its isolated towers make you wonder if Rapunzel was locked away in there.

Once a fortress for the feudal lords, today the castle provides visitors with the finest views of the town of Bled and its surroundings, and also hosts various cultural events.

Discover Bled Castle on the 10 day Discover Croatia tour.

Built in the 16th century and located on the bank of Rhône River, Château de Tournon has a varied past, from serving as the residence of aristocrats to a prison during the French Revolution. Today, the formidable structure houses the Musée de France museum with exhibits from the Renaissance era to present day.

Take a guided walk through the castle grounds and be transported back to the middle ages.

View Tournon Castle during the 8 day Sensations of Lyon and Provence river cruise.

In a conversation about Europe castles, the English ones cannot be far behind. Known as the ‘key to England’, Dover Castle is the largest castle in the country and needs nearly three days to explore completely.

The land the castle stands on is believed to have been inhabited since the Iron Age. The castle complex boasts a Roman lighthouse dating to 50 AD, a maze of secret tunnels, an underground hospital, and a well that goes 73 metres into the ground to access fresh water. The plan for Operation Dynamo for the Dunkirk evacuation during World War II was masterminded from here, as you will find out during the highly entertaining audio-visual guided tour of the castle.

Extend your time in England and enjoy a visit to Dover Castle at the end of the 22 day Chelsea Flower Show - Prague to London and Splendours of Europe River Cruise.