Beautiful castles around the world
Table of Contents
It’s no secret we are all dreaming and fantasizing about travel lately and nothing completes a fantasy more than a fairy-tale castle. So we asked some fellow travellers to share some stories of the most beautiful castles from around the world that they have visited.
Mont-Saint Michel, France by Lyn, A Hole in my Shoe
I think it goes without saying Mont-Saint-Michel in France is one of the most beautiful castles in the world and when I think castles is one of the first that comes to mind. This magical island is located where Normandy and Brittany meet in France is one of the most visited tourist destinations in France. The iconic tidal reflections create an unforgettable sight, also making it one of the most Instagrammable castles. The hilltop town dates back to the 8th century and in 1972 ranked as a UNESCO site. The picturesque vertically constructed castle is a masterpiece of cultural heritage and dates back over 1,000 years.
Getting to this almost vertical castle is not easy. It is a 4 hour drive from Paris and the carpark is 1.5 miles away from the island. Shuttle bus operate daily to take tourists across the bridge from 7:30am to midnight or those looking for an alternative can book a special horse-drawn carriage. For the energetic tourist or those who want the full magnificence of the approach they can walk along the causeway.
Regardless how you get there, it is truly worth a visit and is a castle not to be missed. Self-guided tours costing 10 € will allow you spend anywhere from an hour to several hours exploring this beautiful, bold construction and see for yourself the unique and wonderful architecture. After your vertical walk up the mountain, you can relax with a cider and enjoy the same spectacular views that Ernest Hemmingway, Marilyn Monroe and Yves Saint Laurent have taken delight in.
Nagoya Castle, Japan by Lena, Nagoya Foodie
Nagoya Castle is in my opinion one of the most beautiful castles to visit in Japan. And believe me, there are many. But it’s not the characteristic white keep with its metallic green roofs that draws people to visit the historic site. It’s the recently reconstructed Honmaru Palace, a one-story structure made completely out of wood.
While the keep was built as a defensive structure in case of attacks, the palace used to function as the living quarters and administrative building of the ruling Tokugawa Owari Clan from the 17th to the 19th century. The building has multiple Tatami mat floored rooms with beautiful golden wall paintings depicting animals and plants through the seasons.
Entry to Nagoya Castle costs 500 yen (about 5 US dollars). The castle is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and throughout the year special events take place to celebrate the seasons.
For more information about Nagoya Castle check out Lena’s post on Nagoya Foodie.
Sanssouci Castle, Potsdam by Noel, Travel Photo Discovery
No-one would expect that the famous Prussian Kings of future Germany would have built such amazing castles throughout their kingdom and especially at Potsdam, the famous city just bordering the city of Berlin. With easy access from the capital through train lines, you can get to Potsdam in under an hour and enjoy the lovely and historic city and castles around the area. The first castle that the King Frederick the Great built was the little jewel box like palace called Sanssouci which he had built to rival the splendor of Versaille. Lavishing ornate details, gilt silver and gold fixtures and baroque influences along with the fashionable Rococo style that really showcases that over the top look in this palace. This summer palace was filled with the best furnishings, sculpture and art made by all the best craftsmen and artists throughout the kingdom. When space was running tight at Sanssouci, Frederick had adjoining palaces built close-by and the extensive gardens made to connect them along with wild areas for sport and hunting.
If you are visiting the Berlin area, take the morning or even all day to explore the palaces and gardens of Potsdam and even the charming parts of this historic city. You’ll be wowed with visiting the palaces of the Prussian kings of Germany.
Lancut Castle, Poland by Karolina, Travel Poland Tours
One of the most beautiful castles in the world is Lancut Castle, an aristocratic residence in Poland which was designed by a Dutch Architect around 200 years ago. Built in the early 17th century, the castle is an example of a good balance of grace and strength. Made to both awe and protect, the castle was once the seat of royalty and a fortress that protected its townspeople.
To this day, the quaint farm buildings that were once inhabited by tenants from a bygone era can still be found around the vast park complex that surrounds the castle, along with a big collection of horse-drawn carriages. It is also here that you will find a greenhouse filled with an impressive variety of orchids and majestic pavilions.
It is within the castle that one will find the meaning of extravagance. Although most of the rooms in the castle have been refurbished since the 17th century, there are three key rooms that are well-preserved: The Great Vestibule, The Room Under the Wooden Ceiling, and the Zodiac Room.
The best news is that Lancut Castle is open to the public and one can buy the tickets from the palace ground, but it is best to check the website as the ticket prices correspond to the areas that you wish to explore. You may also wish to include tour guides and sleigh rides to your package.
Malahide Castle, Dublin by Dariece, Your Irish Adventure
Ireland is a country steeped in history, so it’s no surprise that visiting a castle is one of the top things to do here! Since almost every traveller to Ireland visits Dublin, the Malahide Castle is a good choice.
Located just a 10-minute drive from the airport, or about 25 minutes from the city centre, a visit to this castle can be added to your itinerary even if you only have a weekend in Dublin.
The medieval-style Malahide Castle is over 800 years old. In 1185, King Henry II gave the castle to one of his loyal subjects, Richard Talbot.
For over 800 years, the castle remained in the Talbot family (except for an 11-year siege!), with Lord Milo Talbot being the final family member to live in the Castle — he passed away in 1973. Two years later, in 1975, the Malahide Castle and estate were sold to the Irish State.
For visitors, you can explore both the interior and exterior of the huge castle — while admiring the artwork, antique furniture, and many rooms within the castle walls (the Oak Room and the Great Hall are not to be missed). You’re also able to wander around the 260-acre, well-manicured property.
Don’t miss the stunning Malahide Castle, it’s one of the oldest in Ireland.
Castle Peleş, Romania by Keri, Our Globetrotters
When people imagine road tripping through Transylvania, no doubt the first thing that pops to mind is the legends of Dracula and “Dracula’s Castle”. Depending on which story you believe, then you have probably got Bran Castle, home to the Prince of Wallachia aka “Vlad the Impaler” on your itinerary – which is indeed interesting, and horribly crowded and not overly pretty.
By far our favourite castle in Romania is the beautiful Castle Peleş. As you ascend deep into the Carpathian Mountains, you will find near the village of Sinaia the former summer home of the short-lived Royal Family of Romania, King Carol I and his wife Elisabeth. A paid guided tour takes you through the beautifully restored castle-come-Museum and an insight into Eastern European politics of the 19th and 20th Century.
There is a further neighbouring castle on the grounds Pelişor Castle, which can be explored under a separate ticket – apparently the new King, Ferdinand I wanted his own summer home, one Royal Castle was not enough…! It’s quite a steep hill walk to get to the castles from the car park near the village, but even wondering the grounds on a sunny day is a wonderful experience and a taste of the more modern era for Transylvania.
Kilkea Castle, Dublin by Jane, To Travel Too
The spellbinding Kilkea Castle is located in the village of Kilkea in County Kildare 1 hour from Dublin.
Kilkea Castle was constructed for Walter de Riddlesford, a Norman Knight, by Hugh de Lacy the Earl of Ulster and the Chief Governor of Ireland.
The Castle is surrounded in magic and the dark arts. Legend states that on the 7th day of the 7th month of the 7th year the Wizard Earl, Gerald Fitzgerald, 11th Earl of Kildare returns to find his wife after he dabbled in the dark arts and made himself disappear. Do you dare to spend the night on this occasion?
Accommodation is available in one of the lavishly decorated suites in the castle, or Carriage Rooms and Lodges located in the 200 acre grounds.
Activities include a round or two of golf on Kilkea’s own championship golf course, falconry, clay shooting, tennis and fishing.
The hotel was recently purchased and renovated by the Cashman family from the USA and now features a 2 million euro Spa.
Dining in Kilkea’s 1180 signature restaurant is a must do and we would recommend the 5 course tasting menu.
Time spent at Kilkea Castle will be a memorable experience.
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland by Marianne, Mum on the Move
Built in the 12th Century, Edinburgh Castle is perched atop an ancient volcanic crag from where it dominates the city skyline of Scotland’s capital. This is Scotland’s number one paid-for tourist attraction, with more than a million tourists every year flocking here to explore its rugged ramparts.
Highlights of a visit to Edinburgh Castle include seeing the Scottish crown jewels that date from the 15th century, learning the history of the Stone of Destiny, viewing the weapons and armoury displayed in the Great Hall, and Mons Meg – a medieval cannon and one of the largest in the world. It is also home to St Margaret’s Chapel, believed to be the oldest building in Scotland. As a bonus, the castle also offers some of the best views over Edinburgh from its gun-holes.
Try to time your visit to coincide with the firing of the one o’clock gun. The gun has been fired since 1861 and was once used by the ships in the Firth of Forth to set their clocks. It is fired every day at 1pm, except Sundays.
Karlštejn Castle, Czech Republic by Veronika, Travel Geekery
Karlštejn Castle, pronounced Karl-shteyn is a beautiful castle only 40 km from Prague and can be easily visited on a half- or full day trip from Prague, in summer or practically year round.
Originally built in 1348 in the Gothic architectural style, the castle underwent several reconstructions, which mainly added some Renaissance features. Charles the IV, King of Bohemia and the Holy Roman Empire, had the castle built as his residence. Only the king and later his son Wenceslas IV lived in the castle, though. It also served as a safe storage space for royal treasures.
Most Czechs know the castle from a popular musical film called Noc na Karlštejně (A night at the Karlštejn) from 1973 featuring King Charles and his wife, who sneaks into the castle dressed as a young male squire. Legend has it that no women were allowed on the castle grounds during the reign of King Charles the IV.
When visiting the Karlštejn Castle, it’s worth investing into an “Exclusive” tour, rather than just the basic one, since it allows visitors to see the magnificent gold-plated Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Versailles Castle, France by Chrysoula, Historic European Castles
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most impressive and important buildings in France, with its 2000+ rooms, symmetrical design, exquisitely manicured gardens and intricate interiors that are well worth seeing. The palace was built for Louis XIV, from 1661 to 1682, who wanted a place for both rest and relaxation, as well as elaborate royal parties! When he felt it was large enough, he moved all members of Royal Court and Government to live at Versailles. The palace was subsequently inhabited by King Louis XV and Louis XVI, until the start of the French Revolution in 1789.
Known for its elegant interiors, the UNESCO World Heritage Chateau de Versailles boasts extraordinary rooms such as the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Opera, and the Petit Trianon in which Marie Antoinette lived.
The Palace of Versailles is also known for its importance in relation to peace treaties, including the Peace of Paris treaties signed in 1783, the Proclamation of the German Empire in 1871, and the Treaty of Versailles between Germany and the Allied Powers that brought World War I to an end.
Located in the town of Versailles in Yvelines (around 12 miles southwest of Paris), the Chateau of Versailles is easily reached for a day trip by train from the capital.
Ksiaz Castle, Poland by Bec, Poland Travel Expert
There are many beautiful castles in the world but few have the colourful history that surrounds Ksiaz Castle in Poland. As you drive through the thick forest that surrounds one of the most colourful castles I have ever see you can only get a small, quick glimpse of it. You can see the beautiful pink and yellow of the walls and you know it is going to be amazing.
Ksiaz Castle was another castle that was owned, destroyed, taken over and then restored throughout its lifetime. Ksiaz was looted of its glorious treasures many times over its life and was also a place in WWII where some senior Nazi officers spent time. Hidden passageways and underground tunnels were built by prisoners from nearby concentration camps adding to its dark history. It was rumoured that here was the famous ‘Nazi Gold Train’ somewhere within the castle grounds or very close to it but as we toured the castle it was constantly said to us that although there are passages under the castle no gold train had been found.
After so many different owners having made their mark on the castle it was evident that one thing remained, the lavish design throughout. Gold trimmed walls, marble floors and beautiful furniture just make you want to see more. Unfortunately with all of the looting and destruction in the castle most is being painstakingly restored or re-made so Ksiaz Castle can be as close to the Royal residence it was for many years but this does not take away its history and its absolute beauty.
Iandra Castle, NSW Australia by Melissa, All Around Oz
When you think of castles I bet you think of Scotland or Europe and not Australia. But tucked away in Central West NSW less than 30 kilometres from Young is the most remarkable building – Iandra Castle. Although it is nowhere near as old as its overseas counterparts it does have a fascinating history.
The land on which Iandra Castle sits was purchased by Irish immigrant, George Greene in 1878 and the first homestead was built in 1880. The rest of the castle was built around the original structure in 1908.
As you enter Iandra, the first thing you see is the impressive timber staircase which leads from the entrance to the second floor bedrooms. All the bedrooms are large and have their own fireplace. Downstairs there is a billiard room, chapel and a large dining room. Outside the castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and at the rear you will find a large stable complex.
In the mid 50’s Iandra was owned by the Methodist Church and was a boys home before being purchased by Margaret and the late David Morris. Iandra is now heritage listed and is slowly being restored to its former glory.
Iandra Castle is open to the public just a few times a year or group tours can be arranged. So if you are visiting Central West NSW do try and time it for an Open Day.
Kellie’s Castle, Malaysia by Marco, Monkey Rock World
Situated near Batu Gajah, not far away from Ipoh, Kellie’s Castles is a very quirky sight in Malaysia — and one you shouldn’t miss even if you only have 3 days in Malaysia.
Built by a Scottish planter, William Kellie-Smith, Kellie’s Castle is an unfinished European-styled manor that mixes South Indian Tamil architecture, and is set next to the Raya River in tropical surroundings.
It is said that Kellie built this either as a gift to his wife, or for the birth of his son in 1915. In the original plan, the castle should have had Malaysia’s first elevator, an indoor tennis court, and a rooftop courtyard for nightlife and entertainment.
During the construction works, his team of Indian workers was struck with a bad case of Spanish Flu, which subsided only when the men asked Kellie to build an Indian temple nearby — to which the Scot agreed, and was immortalized with a statue of himself set among the Gods on the temple’s roof.
The castle, however, was never finished because Kellie died of pneumonia while away in Portugal in 1926. Devastated, the wife decided to move back to Scotland, leaving Kellie’s Castle unfinished.
Today Kellie’s Castle is a tourist attraction, and some say it is haunted. It was featured in 1999 film Anna and the King and 2000’s Skyline Cruisers.
Photo credit Kit Yeng Chan
Dunrobin Castle, Scotland by Rosalind, Frequent Traveller
This French inspired castle is located 80 km north of Inverness and 1.6 km from the village of Golspie in the Scottish Highlands.
From the outside Dunrobin Castle has the look of an enchanted fairy tale castle with turreted towers just begging for a damsel in distress. Inside is an elegant home filled with exquisite treasures and a family history that dates to the 1300’s.
The castle has been added to over the centuries, but glimpses of the original castle keep can still be seen today. The original keep was first documented in 1401 and the house as it stands today to 1850.
As you walk around the house you will enter a sumptuously decorated dining room, sitting rooms, bedrooms and nursery. From the walls generations of Sutherland ancestors look down reminding us the this is a family home.
Looking down from the castle you will see decorative gardens which like the house have been designed in the style of a French Chateau. In the garden you can watch falconry demonstrations or visit the small museum.
During sunny weather, the castle shines bright white against the sparkling waters of the Dornoch Firth, when overcast the landscape becomes moody adding a wild beauty that the Highlands are famous for.
Bodiam Castle, England by Ann, The Road Is Life
Two hours south of London, set in the stunning English countryside, Bodiam Castle looks like a scene from a fairy tale. It’s surrounded by a large moat, beautiful greenery and ducks running around playfully. Visiting Bodiam Castle makes an awesome day trip from London for those looking to escape the city for a day.
Bodiam Castle dates back to the 14th century when it was built by one of King Edward III’s knights in order to defend the area against French attacks during the Hundred Years War. Not only was it built with defense purposes in mind, but it was also designed to be a comfortable home at the time. This castle is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and although its outer walls appear to be in great condition, the interior is a different story.
Visitors are allowed to walk through the castle and climb up the towers for a lovely panoramic view but as the interior has fallen to ruins, you can’t expect to see a castle museum inside. Bodiam Castle was attacked during the Civil War and then left untouched for centuries. It wasn’t until the 20th century when restoration work began and it was later opened up to the public.
We still have many more suggestions for the most beautiful castles around the world from more travel bloggers so be sure to read the next part.
Do you agree, these are some of the most beautiful castles right? Can you suggest a more magical and enchanting castle that was not listed above?
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I have traveled extensively around the world, but surprisingly not seen any of these. Added to my bucket list
Great post! You should also include Hochosterwitz castle in Austria, it’s beautiful and has 14 doors, so it’s quite special.
Sounds interesting, I’ll have to look it up. Thanks for the suggestion
What a great round up of castles. I have added lots of them to our travel bucket list.
Great reading….so many gorgeous castles. Just want to explore them all!
We have been to Young in Australia a number of times over the years and never knew there was a castle there! Amazing what is out there and still be missed.
Interesting read about all the other castles as well.