Castles have always charmed us since childhood in cartoons of princes and princesses, and they continue to amaze travelers with their majestic gardens, fountains and enormous structures. Indeed, they allow you to travel back in time to explore ancient cultures and their emblematic architectures.
Some castles are built on mountain tops, others appear to float on water, and some are almost hidden in tall trees.
We have put together a list of the most beautiful castles in the world to visit to see. Don’t forget your camera!
1. The Palace of Versailles in France
France is well-ranked when it comes to the most beautiful castles on our planet. You can see it by going to Versailles! Indeed, this city has the most beautiful castle in the world. He is not only the most sublime but also the greatest.
It is obviously the one of Louis XIV. We have often tried to duplicate it, but no one has ever succeeded to match it. It is a real gem and France can be proud of it. Explore its gardens, ice galleries, orangery and many other things, you will simply be amazed! You will also understand why it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Schönbrunn Palace in Austria
Austria can also be proud of having one of the most beautiful castles in the world. If you want to relive the history of the Habsburg dynasty, then go to this worldwide gem. Its beauty has attracted the merits of Unesco and you will understand why once there.
Its imperial yellow facade will be the first thing that will fill you with admiration and astonishment. It is a set of 1400 rooms that make up this castle, but public visitors only have access to 40 rooms.
But you can’t complain, because it has a 158-hectare park that allows you to see several wonders. By the way, it has the merit of owning the longest orangery in the world.
3. Château de Chambord in France
The Loire has several castles, but this one is the most prestigious and the largest in the whole territory. It has 440 rooms and was built at the request of François 1er. It is more popular under the name Chateau de Chambord. Its charm is not found in its interior, as it has almost never been inhabited or furnished, but the exterior is sufficient to wonder visitors. You will especially love Leonardo da Vinci’s double staircase which immerses you in a fairy tale.
It is one of the most important monuments of France that you must visit at least once in your life. Let’s not forget to point out that most of the Loire Valley castles are exceptional!
4. Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
This castle inspires the designer of Walt Disney. Looking at it, you immediately think you are in a fairy tale. It is also known as the Sleeping Queen’s Castle. If you are in Germany for a vacation, be sure to include it in the list of the first monuments to see. You will be amazed at what you are about to see. It is in the heart of fir trees that you will find it, and that makes it even more exceptional.
It is also one of the most visited castles in all of Europe. The surrounding landscape is breathtakingly beautiful.
5. Bran Castle in Romania
Still known as Dracula’s Castle, Bran Castle is one of the most beautiful in the world and will allow you to experience exceptional moments. The tourist who wishes to discover it must go to the Carpathians, more precisely to Romania.
It is an amazing architecture that you can discover in this popular monument. It was created in 1377 by King Louis 1 of Hungary. It is a place that triggers admiration and wonder. It is important to introduce this place to your children.
6. Windsor Castle in England
Welcome to the domain of the Queen of England! This magnificent castle is located in London. It is also one of the largest that still has inhabitants to this day.
The most important thing here is that you can visit it all year round without problems.
It is a medieval castle to visit. In fact, many people rush to visit it every year. Why not you? One thing is certain, you won’t be disappointed!
7. Edinburgh Castle in Scotland
Located on a volcanic rock, this Scottish castle will make you have dream moments. When you are in the Scottish capital, it is impossible to overlook it thanks to its position on a rocky outcrop. During the visit, you can discover the history of the country, as well as some vestiges of ancestors of this country.
Indeed, since it is no longer inhabited, you will be rather happy to find a museum and some exhibitions there. One thing is certain, if you go to Scotland for the Tattoo festival, you will necessarily discover the castle, because it hosts this event. The castle structure is simply fantastic.
8. Petrodvorets Castle in Russia
Russia is also reputed when it comes to the most beautiful castles in the world. You can see this by visiting the Petrodvorets Palace. It is also called the Russian Versailles. It is located west of Saint Petersburg.
It was Tsar Peter the Great who lived in this place and it was built in a perfect way that sometimes you would think it could rival the Palace of Versailles. Its facade is so beautiful and will be suitable for taking unforgettable photos. There are several magnificent things that you will have to visit in this palace.
9. Château Frontenac in Canada
Here we are in Quebec. You can therefore have the privilege of visiting one of the largest castles in the world. It is in Canada that you can discover this wonder of the world. It was at the end of the 19th century that the world was able to enjoy this magnificent monument.
It’s impossible to visit the city of Quebec without trying to see this majestic monument. You will be amazed! Today, it has become a luxury hotel. If you can afford to stay inside, you will be able to see wonders. But if not, don’t panic, because its lobby is also very interesting.
10. Matsumoto Castle in Japan
Also in Japan, you can visit one of the most beautiful castles in the world. It is also included in the classification of historical monuments in the national heritage of the country. It is located on a plain and this is one of the highlights of this monument.
When you observe it from the outside, you might think it has 5 floors, but it’s more like 6. You will therefore have to be guided and have permission to see the 6th which is secret. You will love what you see. It is an exceptional place.
11. Ashford Castle in Ireland
Located north of the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle is one of the medieval castles to visit in the world. It is also one of the largest castles in the world. Thanks to the various modifications made over time, it has become more practicable for visits.
You can discover a wide variety of plants in the garden that surrounds it. Today, this palace has become a luxury hotel after being the private property of Noel Huggard. Even if you are not going there to stay, you can visit it with no problem. It is also a must to see when you visit Ireland.
12. Prague Castle in the Czech Republic
This castle was once the domain of the Bohemian rulers, but later it became the seat of the Presidency of the country’s republic. This does not prevent it from having a considerable place in the ranking of the most beautiful castles in the world. Its famous towers can be seen from a distance.
It is a bridge similar to the one in fairy tales whose access is forbidden. However, even if access is forbidden to the public, the simple exterior view plunges people into admiration. Do not hesitate to go and observe this worldwide gem if you are planning to visit the Czech Republic.
13. Chenonceau Castle in France
Located in Touraine, the Château de Chenonceau is a must to see at least once in your life. One of the things that attracts in this magnificent place is its famous two-storey gallery which will allow you to see exceptional things.
It is a castle that was built and maintained by women and this is what justifies the angelic beauty of this monument of France which receives a large number of visitors each year. It has a park of unparalleled richness and beauty. The site is accessible to the public.
14. Bojnice Castle in Slovakia
Bojnice Castle offers you a magnificent architectural gem. It is a Gothic and romantic style that you will find in this domain owned by the Palffy for a long time. The corridors of this castle exhibit the portraits of the various members of this family.
You will also love the exceptional decoration of its chapel and its oriental lounge. A winter garden also enhances the brilliance of this monument. You will still be impressed by its cave which includes two lakes. In the past, it served as a shelter and water reservoir.
15. Beersel Castle in Belgium
Considered one of the most beautiful medieval castles in the world, Beersel Castle will give you dreamy sensations. The surrounding landscape is one of the charms of this unusual place. It is accessible throughout the year and you can take advantage of this walk to discover the history of this place which has known several sieges. This is a visit that will really interest you!
16. The castle of the Dukes of Brittany in France
Located in Nantes, the castle of the Dukes of Brittany is a must-see monument in France. It is located in the Loire-Atlantique department and has been considered a historical monument since 1840.
Nowadays, it has become a museum and will allow you to discover several exceptional things. Apart from this richness, it is also appreciated for the beauty of its landscape and its architecture. You will absolutely love it!
17. Alcazar Castle in Spain
Here is a castle that is rich in structure and history. It is located in the city of Segovia. One of the things that will impress you is its unusual shape. Indeed, it was designed in the form of the bow of a boat. In its beginnings, it was used as a royal palace, before becoming a prison a few years later. It will then be the military academy stage.
It is one of the most beautiful sites to visit in the world today. You will have the opportunity to visit several works of art, but the passage in its room of kings will also amaze you!
18. Moszna Castle in Poland
In the city of Opole in Poland, you will find one of the most beautiful castles in the world. Moszna Castle is an architectural gem that you must see when traveling to Poland. It is a real mystery that you will discover here. It is made up of 99 towers and 365 rooms. Nowadays, it has been transformed into a hotel. You can therefore visit it in several days. All you have to do is make your reservations to spend a few exceptional nights there.
In short, the world is endowed with several castles of unusual beauty. You need just to take the necessary information to know where to go. Our list is not complete because there are so many. You can see this by visiting monuments such as the Château de Pommery, the Château de Downton Abbey, the Château du Clos Lucé and many more.
