10 Castles Around the World Where You Can Live Out Your Fairytale Dreams

It will appeal to both history buffs and fairy tale lovers.

 Image: Charlie Green / Unsplash

Travelers from all over the world are attracted not only by the stunning architecture of castles, but also by their history, cultural heritage and the secrets they hold. Originally built for defense, castles also served royalty and nobility, symbolizing medieval power and wealth. Today, these towering structures, often several centuries old, are open to the public. Medieval majestic castles in European style or traditional Japanese fortresses - each of the castles has its own appeal and invites you to an exciting, breathtaking journey.

Ready to dive into the magical world of castles? Here are 10 of the most beautiful and famous castles around the world to add to your bucket list.

1. Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany

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Set in the idyllic countryside of Bavaria, Germany , Neuschwanstein seems straight out of a fairy tale. In fact, it was the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in Anaheim, California. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited castles in the world. Nearby is the equally impressive Hohenschwangau Castle , where the late King Ludwig II spent his childhood. Both castles require entrance tickets; travelers recommend joining a skip-the-line tour that stops at both attractions.

History buffs can visit the Museum of the Bavarian Kings and learn about the castles' lineage, while thrill-seekers and adventurers can ride the Tegelberg Cable Car for stunning views from above.

2. Chateau de Chambord in the Loire Valley, France

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The Château de Chambord , an example of Renaissance architecture, is located in the heart of the Loire Valley in France and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest park surrounding the castle is considered to be the largest enclosed park in Europe today, with a vast garden of some 13,500 acres. It is also home to the famous double-helix spiral staircase designed by the great Leonardo da Vinci.

When traveling through the Loire Valley, be sure to sample the aromatic wines for which the region is famous. Take a guided tour of the valley's vineyards to appreciate the variety of local wines and delicacies. If you have time, enjoy the evening breeze on a private tour and picnic among the vines.

3. Windsor Castle in Berkshire, UK

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Escape the bustling streets of London to Windsor Castle , just 20 minutes by train from Paddington Station. This Gothic-style castle is a true ancient wonder. It is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. It even hosted the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018.

Despite its impressive exterior, Windsor Castle's interior is just as stunning. Take a half-day tour of Windsor's inner gems , starting with its magnificent chapel. Marvel at Queen Mary's intricate dolls' house and the incredible splendor of the State Rooms.

If you want to get a taste of British drinking culture, head to the Windsor & Eton Brewery for a pint or two and learn about the brewing process. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll over to Eton College , too - you might just bump into some future English aristocrats.

4. Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland

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Situated on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle in Scotland is a historic fortress that towers over the city. The castle's ancient beauty and charm are especially noticeable at sunrise or sunset, against the backdrop of a clear, endless sky.

Take a guided tour of Britain's most besieged castle to see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the famous Clockwork Cannon. Be sure to visit the National War Museum of Scotland , conveniently located in the castle itself. If you're traveling with kids, consider an interactive Harry Potter-themed walking tour that includes a visit to Edinburgh Castle.

Traveller's tip:  Situated close to Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill is another great place to watch the sunset, where you can admire the National Monument against the sparkling sky.

5. Chapultepec Castle in Mexico City, Mexico

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The magnificent architecture of Mexico City 's Chapultepec Castle , located at an incredible height of over 2,300 meters above sea level, is astounding. Be sure to check out the castle's impressive murals and stained glass windows, as well as the National History Museum (temporarily closed indefinitely) located there. The castle itself closes at 5:00 p.m., but you can linger and wander around the surrounding Chapultepec Park for stunning panoramic views of Mexico City.

If you're a museum buff, stop by the nearby National Museum of Anthropology for a lecture on Mexico's pre-Columbian history. Join a private tour of the museum to learn more about historical artifacts like Mexico's Stone of the Sun and deepen your appreciation for Mexican culture.

When you're hungry, head to Rulfo Paraje Latino for authentic Mexican tapas and drinks right on the street, or Teppan Grill for sizzling grilled meats and sushi.

6. Himeji Castle in Hyogo, Japan

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Located in Hyogo Prefecture , Himeji Castle , often called the "White Heron Castle" due to its white facade and curved edges that resemble wings, is striking at any time of year. It is also the first castle in Japan to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the cherry blossom season from March to May, the facade of Himeji Castle is framed by light pink and white blossoms, making it a breathtaking sight. In autumn, when the castle is adorned with fiery red and orange leaves, the effect is no less impressive. Regardless of the time of year, we recommend taking a guided tour of the castle grounds to learn about the history of the place and better appreciate its significance.

If this has inspired you, check out our guide to the best time to visit Japan .

7. Alcazar of Segovia, Spain

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Known as the “Palace of the Kings of Castile,” the Alcazar of Segovia in Spain is nothing short of a Spanish fairy tale come to life. It was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle in Florida. You’ll be amazed not only by the magnificent architecture of the castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Spain, but also by its vast collection of tapestries, stained glass, paintings, and furniture. This day trip to the Alcazar from Madrid offers a stress-free trip and even includes a stop in the nearby town of Avila .

After all that walking, treat yourself to a feast fit for a king at the Meson Don Jimeno restaurant , conveniently located at the foot of the castle. Or enjoy fine Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine at the Michelin-starred Restaurante Jose Maria , just a 15-minute walk from the castle. End the day at the Hotel Don Felipe , where you’ll be treated like royalty.

8. Prague Castle in Prague, Czech Republic

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If you are fascinated by architectural wonders, culture or literature, Prague Castle is the place for you. It is the largest castle in Europe, located in the center of Prague and has more than 700 rooms, although the state rooms are closed to the public.


Start at St. Vitus Cathedral to see the burial place of former Czech kings, then head to Prague’s second-oldest church, St. George’s Basilica , with its impressive Romanesque architecture. If you’re a literature buff, finish your trip with a literary adventure in Golden Lane and try to find the home of the late Franz Kafka, the famous writer who lived there in the early 1900s. For a better understanding of the castle’s history, take a guided walking tour.

9. Castello di Amorosa Castle in Napa Valley, United States of America

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Experience the idyllic California countryside at Castello di Amorosa , the newest castle on this guide. Winemaker Dario Sattui built this Napa Valley castle in 2007, inspired by the medieval castles of 14th-century Tuscany. The castle’s 121,000-square-foot winery houses antiquities from around the world and is divided into eight levels—four above ground and four below. To learn more, take an exclusive small-group tour to see the Barrel Room, the Great Hall, the Chapel, and, in keeping with medieval tradition, its own torture chamber.

Travelers recommend visiting during harvest season from August to October to learn all about the winemaking process, from how the wine is grown to how it ends up on the table.

10. Osaka Castle, Osaka, Japan

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Osaka Castle in Japan, with its beautiful castle parks that are especially beautiful during cherry blossom season, is a sight to behold. The walls and roof of the castle are decorated with gold ornaments - a clear indication of the obsession with gold of the late ruler of Japan Hideyoshi Toyotomi. Each floor of this extravagantly decorated castle contains unique exhibits, and from the top there is a breathtaking view of the surrounding park and the cityscape.

Explore the castle grounds and surrounding area on a relaxing bike tour , or add a twist to your trip by driving a go-kart through the streets of Osaka dressed as your favorite Super Mario character.

You'll be hungry afterward, so treat yourself to a delicious sukiyaki (Japanese hot pot) lunch at Hokuto GEMS Namba . Finish the evening in the Dotonbori area , the heart of Osaka's nightlife, with a delightful selection of bars, restaurants and theatres.

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