29 Authentic Medieval Castles in Europe, escape to the Middle Ages!

Europe is home to some of the most magnificent medieval castles in the world. From towering fortresses to grand palaces, these atmosphere medieval castles in Europe are truly awe-inspiring and not to be missed.

Many of these castles have stood for centuries, withstanding wars, sieges, and the ravages of time. They offer a glimpse into a bygone era when lords and ladies ruled over vast estates and knights rode out to defend their honor.

Add these fantastic historic Medieval European Castles to your travel itinerary and let them transport you to the Middle Ages!

The best authentic medieval castles in Europe

Here is a list of 29 historic medieval castles in Europe to visit:

(1) The Castle of Carcassonne (Cité de Carcassonne), France

The 12th century Castle of Carcassonne, located in the city of Carcassonne in France, is one of the most impressive medieval castles in Europe. The massive fortress is the perfect example of medieval military architecture.

Builders went to great lengths to keep invaders at bay by adding a moat, drawbridge, not one but two walls, an inner and an outer wall (curtain wall), and 52 towers, which provide visitors stunning views of the city.

This castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts thousands of visitors each year who come to explore the narrow streets and alleys of the fortress.

how to see: Castle Carcassonne

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(2) The Tower of London, England United Kingdom

The Tower of London complex, in central London in England, is one of the most famous medieval castles in Europe.

This iconic fortress was built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror and has since served as a royal palace, and a state prison and was also the site of many executions, including those of Queen Anne Boleyn and Lady Jane Grey, two of King Henry VIII’s wives.

Today, The Tower is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site where visitors can explore the royal armory, a torture and execution museum, and see the Crown Jewels.

how to see: The Tower of London

(3) Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle, located in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. The castle sits atop Castle Rock, an extinct volcano turned rocky outcrop and has been a royal residence and military stronghold for centuries.

The royal castle of Edinburgh has great historical significance. It was the birthplace of King James VI, son of Mary, Queen of Scots, and is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.

The castle is located in the middle of one of Europe’s dreamiest cities. The historic buildings in old town Edinburgh are dark, Gothic, and magnificent, it’s a medieval dream!

How to see: Edinburgh Castle (need a Scotland itinerary? This one includes Edinburgh, the Highlands, and more!)

(4) Eilean Donan, Scotland

Eilean Donan Castle, a Scottish Castle located on a small island in Loch Duich in Scottish Highlands, is one of the most iconic and recognizable castles in Scotland. The castle was originally built in the 13th century as a defense against Viking raids.

It was partially destroyed during the Jacobite uprising in the 18th century but was restored in the 20th century. Eilean Donan Castle’s claim to fame is its stunning location and picturesque views. A guided tour provides in-depth information about the castle and its significance.

How to see: Eilean Donan Castle

(5) Burg Eltz Castle, Germany

So many of Europe’s medieval castles have tragically been destroyed by war throughout the centuries. That’s not the case with 9th century Burg Eltz Castle. Its strategic location deep in a dense forest in the Mosel River Valley in Germany, provided protection from invaders.

The original castle, built nearly 900 years ago, still stands in this spot. Eltz Castle’s fanciful mix of different architectural styles, including Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance, makes it a standout among Europe’s medieval castles.

how to see: Burg Eltz Castle

(6) Rock of Cashel, Ireland

Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings and St Patrick’s Rock, is a medieval castle located in County Tipperary Ireland. This iconic Irish landmark has been a symbol of Irish heritage for over a thousand years.

Throughout history, this ancient fortress that sits atop a limestone hill has been a royal residence, as well as an important religious site. The Rock has intriguing connections with St. Patrick and Ireland’s famous High King, Brian Boru.

The oldest of the remaining structures is the well-preserved round tower dating from c. 1100. The curved surface of round towers, a distinctly Irish feature, have advantages over square towers. Projectiles like arrows glance off of them rather than taking a direct hit.

how to see: Rock of Cashel

(7) Château de Chambord, France

Château de Chambord is a historic French Renaissance palace located in the Loire Valley of France. The castle was built during the 16th century as a hunting lodge for King Francis I of France.

The beautiful castle, with notes of classical and Gothic architecture, is surrounded by a moat and lovely gardens. Inside you’ll find a collection of Renaissance art and furniture, as well as a serious of ornate staircases and balconies. Visitors are welcome to explore the interior as well as the vast estate and walking trails.

how to see: Château de Chambord

(8) Windsor Castle, England

Windsor Castle, a royal residence located in the town of Windsor in England, was originally built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror. It is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, and has been home to the British royal family, who still maintain state apartments in the castle, for over 900 years.

My favorite resident; the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Regal Windsor Castle combines elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque style. The historic town of Windsor is located on the River Thames and has a charming town center with cobbled streets, quaint shops, and traditional pubs. Windsor is a mere 13 km from London Heathrow airport and is an easy day trip from London.

how to see: Windsor Castle

(9) Prague Castle, Czech Republic

Historic Prague Castle complex, one of the largest in the world, located in the heart of Prague, Czech Republic. The castle was originally built in the 9th century and has been a symbol of Czech power and authority for over a thousand years. Its impressive architecture combines elements of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Situated on a hill overlooking the city, the castle offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic and is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Europe, known for its stunning Gothic architecture. Looking for a real medieval experience? check out one of the cities medieval themed taverns!

How to see: Prague Castle

(10) Bran Castle, Romania

Bran Castle is a historic 14th century Gothic castle located in the Transylvania region of Romania. Exhibits include a torture chamber, armory with medieval weapons and armor, and the royal apartments.

Bram Stoker, the author of the Dracula Novel was inspired by the legends and folklore surrounding the region, which was known for its association with vampires and other supernatural beings. The castle closely matches the description of the castle in Stoker’s novel, and thereby gained the name “Dracula’s Castle.”

However, there is little evidence to suggest that Vlad the Impaler, the real-life figure who inspired Stoker’s character, ever actually lived or visited Bran Castle.

How to see: Bran Castle

(11) Bodiam Castle, England

Bodiam Castle is a 14th-century castle located in East Sussex, England. The castle is surrounded by a large water filled moat that gives the castle the appearance that it is floating on water.

The interior of the castle is in ruin, making it all the more atmospheric! This lovely ruined castle will really get your imagination going as you explore spiral staircases, courtyards, towers overlooking the moat, and a wooden portcullis!

Also open to visitors, the great hall, a kitchen with a roasting hearth and baking ovens, the Lord and Lady’s Apartments, and chapel.

How to see: Bodiam Castle

(12) Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

Bojnice Castle, originally built as a wooden fortress, is located on a travertine hill overlooking the town of Bojnice in central Slovakia. This castle has a distinct fairytale castle flare, despite being built in the 12th century at the height of the Dark Ages!

It is one of the most beautiful castles in the world, giving Neuschwanstein a run for its money! Through the years, expansions added elements of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. Tour the inside of the castle for lavish interiors, and the outside for pristine gardens.

How to see: Bojnice Castle

(13) Predjama Castle, Slovenia

The 800-year-old Predjamski Grad cave castle, located in the village of Predjama in Slovenia, and is one of the most unique castles in the world. The 13th century Gothic Renaissance castle is known for both its location, built into a Stone Age cave, and it’s fascinating story!

Take the castle tour to learn about the nobleman who was besieged in the castle, evading capture for a time, only to be undone by a servant willing to give him up for a price.

How to see: Predjama Castle

(14) Corvin Castle (Hunyadi/ Hunedoara/Hunyad Castle), Romania

Corvin Castle is a medieval castle located in the town of Hunedoara in the Transylvania region of Romania. The castle was originally built in the 14th century as a fortress and is one of the largest and most well-preserved in Romania. In fact, it is one of the 7 Wonders of Romania. It is known for its impressive Gothic-Renaissance architecture, which features high walls, towers, and ornate decorations.

How to see: Corvin Castle

(15) Wartburg Castle, Germany

UNESCO World Heritage Wartburg castle is situated on a steep rock cliff overlooking the town of Eisenach Germany. Martin Luther translated the New Testament of the Bible into German here in this 11th century Romanesque Gothic castle 1521. Victors can explore the Luther Room, where Martin Luther is said to have worked on his translation of the Bible.

How to see: Wartburg Castle

(16) Segovia Castle, Spain

Alcázar of Segovia is located on a hill above the city of Segovia, in Castile and León, on the Iberian Peninsula in Spain. Home to Spanish monarchs, it has existed since at least the 12th century, and is known for its impressive architecture, which combines elements of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance styles.

Alcázar de Segovia, Spain, Segovia is home to the Aqueduct of Segovia, a stunning Roman aqueduct that was built in the 1st century AD and is a popular destination for tourists and is easily accessible from Madrid, making it a great day trip or weekend getaway.

How to see: Segovia Castle

(17) Festung Hohensalzburg Castle, Austria

Hohensalzburg Castle is a 11th century medieval fortress located in Salzburg, Austria. The castle is situated on top of a hill overlooking the city and is one of the largest and best castles in Europe.

It has a complex system of courtyards, towers, and rooms, including a chapel, a torture chamber, and a museum. At the top of the list of fun things to see and do in Salzburg is to take in the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town with it’s unique architecture, a fanciful mixture of baroque and Gothic.

How to see: Festung Hohensalzburg and check out my 3-Day Salzburg Itinerary!

(18) Hohenzollern Castle, Germany

This massive Gothic Revival fortification is located in the Swabian Alps near Stuttgart in southern Germany. The original 11th century castle was destroyed in 1423, the current structure completed in 1867. With over 350,000 visitors per year, Hohenzollern Castle is one of the most visited castles in Germany.

How to see: Hohenzollern Castle, one of Germany’s best fairytale castles!

(19) Trakai Island Castle, Lithuania

Trakai Island Castle is located on an island in Lake Galvė, near the town of Trakai in Lithuania. It was built in the 14th century and served as the residence of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. During its history, Trakai Island Castle has been damaged and rebuilt several times. The Gothic style castle is surrounded by a moat, is accessible by a wooden bridge, and hosts events throughout the year.

How to see: Trakai Island Castle

(20) Nuremberg Castle, Germany

The Imperial Castle of Nuremberg is a Romanesque style medieval fortress located in the city of Nuremberg, in Bavaria Germany. The castle was originally built in the 11th century as a royal palace for the Holy Roman Emperor and sits on a sandstone ridge overlooking the city.

Nuremberg Castle is surrounded by the wonderful medieval town of Nuremberg, one of the most well-preserved Medieval towns in Germany. If you want to take a step back to the Middle Ages, then a trip to Nuremberg is in order! It’s one of Germany’s best fairytale destinations!

How to see: Nuremberg Castle

(21) Hochosterwitz Castle, Austria

9th century medieval fortress Hochosterwitz Castle, one of the most famous Austrian landmarks, is located in the State of Carinthia. The castle is perched on a 150-meter-high limestone dolomite rock where it stands guard over the valley below. Explore the Armory with its impressive collection of full body armor and ride the funicular up to visit this impressive castle and enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside from WAY up there!

How to see: Hochosterwitz Castle

Modern conveniences have been added to many of these ancient castles, such as these handy funiculars that whisk visitors UP to the top of the hill in an instant!

(22) Castello Sforzesco, Italy

Castello Sforzesco is located in the heart of Milan, Italy. It was built in the 15th century in a Renaissance style and features a large central courtyard, several towers, and a series of interconnected buildings.

The interior of the castle includes a museum that showcases the art and history of Milan and the surrounding region, including several important works of art by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

How to see: Castello Sforzesco

(23) Castelo de Guimarães, Portugal

Castelo de Guimarães, located in the city of Guimarães in Portugal, was Portugal’s first castle and is know as the birthplace of the country. Built in the 10th century, it served as the residence of the first King of Portugal, Afonso Henriques.

The Romanesque style castle features a series of towers, walls, and a central keep. The interior of the castle has some beautifully decorated rooms and includes a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.

How to see: Castelo de Guimarães

(24) Château de Pierrefonds, France

Château de Pierrefonds castle is an architectural fanciful delight! The 14th century castle is located in the town of Pierrefonds, in the Oise department of France, and is situated in the heart of the Compiègne forest.

The destroyed and abandoned castle was rebuilt in the 19th century in Gothic Revival style. The architect, Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, also worked on other famous French landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Mont Saint-Michel.

How to see: Château de Pierrefonds

(25) Conwy Castle, Wales

While Germany has the most castles of any country in Europe, it’s Whales that features more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe. Conwy Castle is a Grand medieval fortress located in the walled market town of Conwy in North Wales.

The castle was built by King Edward I of England in the late 13th century. It is considered one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle is situated on the shores of the Conwy River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

How to see: Conwy Castle

(26) Warwick Castle, England

Warwick Castle is a medieval castle developed from a wooden structure fort, originally built by William the Conqueror during 1068. The castle is situated on a hill overlooking River Avon in the town of Warwick, England.

The original wooden motte-and-bailey castle was rebuilt in stone during the 12th century. The castle was originally built in the 11th century as a wooden fort, and is known for its impressive Norman architecture, and medieval interior.

Visitors to Warwick Castle can explore the various rooms including the Castle Dungeon, and its collection of medieval artifacts and weapons.

How to see: Warwick Castle

(27) Manzanares el Real Castle

Manzanares el Real Castle is a 15th century castle located in the town of Manzanares el Real, in the province of Madrid, Spain. It is situated at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama Mountains range and overlooks the Santillana reservoir.

The Gothic castle is notable for its fanciful and ornate architectural details, so it is a bit surprising that it was designed as a defensive fortress. The castle hosts cultural events throughout the year, such as Renaissance performances, concerts, and exhibitions.

How to see: Manzanares el Real Castle

(28) Malbork Castle, Poland

Malbork Castle, also known as the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, is located in the town of Malbork in Poland. Not only is Malbork the largest Medieval castle in Europe, but it is also the largest castle in the world.

Considered one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in Eastern Europe, it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle was originally built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, a Germanic military order and is known for its impressive Gothic architecture.

The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the River Nogat and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

How to see: Malbork Castle

(29) The Alhambra, Spain

This stunning palace and fortress complex, architecturally unique from most of the castles on this list, is located in Granada Spain. It was originally built in the 9th century and features beautiful Islamic architecture and intricate tilework.

The Alhambra is characterized by its complex network of courtyards, gardens, and buildings. The Generalife gardens are located on the hillside above the Alhambra and are known for their terraced layout and intricate water features.

How to see: Alhambra Castle

map of the best medieval castles in Europe

follow the link to be redirected to an interactive Google map of the best “medieval castles Europe.”

The Middle Ages

As the age of classical antiquity ended with the fall of the Roman Empire, so began Medieval times. The medieval period in Europe, also known as The Middle Ages or the Dark Ages, began in the 5th century (around 476 A.D.) and spanned nearly 1,000 years, ending in the 15th century (between 1400 and 1450 A.D.) By the 16th century Europe had emerged from the dark ages and entered the light of the Renaissance period.

about Authentic medieval castles in Europe

Characteristics common to medieval castles in Europe:

• Location: Castles during medieval times were built in a strategic location on hills or near rivers to provide a tactical advantage.
• Living quarters: Castle walls were adorned with tapestries, paintings, shields, weapons and armor. There was a Great Hall for gathering and strategizing. Massive kitchens were equipped with large fireplaces and ovens to cook food for the lord and his guests and were often located in a separate building to prevent fires from spreading to the rest of the castle.
• Built for defense: These castles had thick stone walls, with arrow slits, to withstand invading enemy forces. Moats, drawbridges, and heavily grated iron Portcullis, were all physical deterrents to invaders. Spiral staircases made the castle easier to defend. Towers served both observation and defense purposes.
• Chapels: Many of the medieval castles of Europe had chapels where the lord and his family could attend mass. The chapels were often small and simple, but some were decorated with elaborate carvings and stained glass windows and were home to many holy relics.

frequently asked questions

Is Neuschwanstein Castle medieval?

No, Neuschwanstein is not medieval. It wasn’t until the 19th century that King Ludwig II of Bavaria built one of the most fanciful fairy tale castles in all of Europe. The castle, possibly the most visited castle in Europe, is located in the Bavarian Alps and although it is one of the most famous castles in Europe, it’s definitely more Walt Disney than Middle Ages.

What is the largest medieval castle in Europe?

We have two contenders here:

Prague Castle
According to the Guinness Book of Records, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in the world, occupying an area of almost 70,000 square metres (about 17.3 acres)

Malbork Castle
While Prague castle is much older, with a size that encompasses over 44 acres, Malbork is more than double the size of Prague. In fact, Malbork is the largest castle in the entire world. On its completion in 1406, it was the world’s largest brick castle.

The castle was expanded several times and soon became the largest fortified Gothic building in Europe, so large that it once housed approximately 3,000 “brothers in arms”. The outermost castle walls enclose 21 ha (52 acres.) The developed part of the property, a World Heritage Site, is 44.57 acres.

-source, Wikipedia