15 Forgotten Castles and Palaces You Can Actually Visit
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1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
If you love exploring grand places, Neuschwanstein Castle should be on your radar. Perched on a rugged hill in the scenic region of Bavaria, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale. King Ludwig II of Bavaria commissioned this spectacular castle as a retreat and as an homage to Richard Wagner, the famous composer.
With towers and turrets reaching for the sky, the castle looks just like the ones in storybooks. You can visit year-round and see why it was the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Don’t forget to take a walk to Marienbrucke, a bridge that offers stunning views of the castle. If you’re up for it, a horse-drawn carriage ride adds a touch of magic to your visit.
2. Château de Chambord, France
If you’re keen on stepping back in time to the French Renaissance, the Château de Chambord is your time machine! Its double helix staircase, a brainchild often attributed to none other than Leonardo da Vinci, is like a magic trick in stone form.
This mammoth of a castle, crowned with an elaborate roofscape that’ll have your camera working overtime, showcases French artistry that has proudly stood the test of time since the 1500s.
Who wouldn’t love a dreamy castle that combines medieval strength with Renaissance beauty? So lace up those comfy shoes; this castle has rooms and rooftops that seem to go on forever!
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3. Hohenzollern Castle, Germany
Perched high on a mountaintop, Hohenzollern Castle is a sight to behold! As the ancestral seat of the imperial House of Hohenzollern, this awe-inspiring structure is the pinnacle of what you might call a fairytale German castle.
The current fortress, gracing the skies since its completion in 1867, is actually the third to stand guard over the surrounding countryside. With its majestic turrets and grand rooms, you can explore a slice of European royal history.
The castle’s 140 rooms are brimming with art, artifacts, and perhaps the echoes of royal festivities from yore. Don’t forget to peek out the windows for some breathtaking views that’ll have you wondering why you didn’t bring your crown.
4. Pena Palace, Portugal
Have you ever dreamed of stepping into a real-life fairytale? Let’s zip over to the vibrant and colorful Pena Palace nestled atop the hills in Sintra, Portugal. What’s cool about Pena Palace is not just its eye-popping colors but its history too.
Once a humble monastery, Mother Nature had other plans. Despite a lightning strike and the famous Lisbon Earthquake doing their worst, Pena rose like a phoenix from the rubble.
Just remember to charge your camera – you’ll want to capture every single moment of your visit to this architectural wonder.
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5. Eltz Castle, Germany
Tucked away in the lush forests of Germany, Eltz Castle has been standing tall for over 850 years! It’s like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, right? What’s even cooler is that it’s been owned by the same family tree since it was first built in the 12th century.
Even though it’s centuries old, this castle is far from being just a relic. It’s in fantastic shape for its age, looking more handsome now than ever; you can even explore the grand rooms.
6. Predjama Castle, Slovenia
If you’ve got a soft spot for architecture that’s straight out of a fairytale, Predjama Castle in Slovenia will spark your fancy. Nestled in the arms of a cliff, this Renaissance castle has been around for over 800 years!
Imagine a castle with secrets of its own—rooms and passages hidden within a cave. As the world’s largest cave castle, Predjama Castle is a marvel of medieval engineering.
So, lace up your shoes, channel your inner knight, and explore the majestic halls of this Slovenian legend. Just think about the tales you’ll share once you’ve witnessed its grandeur firsthand!
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7. Alhambra, Spain
The Alhambra awaits your discovery with its vivid tales etched in stone, all under the warm Spanish sun. Nestled atop the serene hills of Granada, this palace complex is a patchwork of history and art.
In the Patio de los Arrayanes, you’ll find mesmerizing reflections that dance on still waters, bordered by walls that have seen centuries come and go. Don’t forget, a splash of adventure is always needed – wear your most comfortable shoes because the Alhambra’s secrets are many, and its grounds are vast.
8. Château de Chillon, Switzerland
Hovering elegantly on a rocky island in the serene Lake Geneva, Château de Chillon is a stone’s throw away from the vibey town of Montreux. Picture Lake Geneva wrapping around it like a snug blanket while the Alps stand guard in the distance.
The Château has stood the test of time, resisting wars and weather, and today it opens its doors to your curious eyes. With rooms that tell tales of old, it’s like walking through a living history book.
You can roam through the grand halls, gaze upon the ancient artwork, and peek through arrow slits that once protected the castle. And if you’re fond of heroes and their stories, you’ll find Château de Chillon’s connection to the brave Count of Savoy quite gripping.
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9. Mont Saint-Michel, France
Get excited about stepping onto the rocky isle of Mont Saint-Michel, a magical castle surrounded by the mightiest tides in Europe! This spot looks like it came straight out of a fairy tale, so grab a shuttle from Rennes, and let’s explore.
Feel the history in the medieval walls and the awe as you gaze up at the abbey that crowns the island. It’s not every day you get to roam an ancient marvel, so soak up the views and the vibrant history oozing from each cobblestoned corner. And hey, don’t miss checking the tide schedule – it’s a sight to see when the sea hugs the island tight!
10. Castle Howard, England
Castle Howard is where the grandeur of 300 years worth of history comes alive in one of England’s most remarkable historic homes. The Howard family’s impressive collection of art will have your eyes dancing from one piece to the next.
Don’t be surprised if you end up playing a game of “which century is this from?” as you wander. Outside, the adventure continues with statues and temple ruins that look like they sprang straight from the pages of a storybook.
So, why just read about history when you can walk through it? Your next adventure could be a hop, a skip, and a jump back in time at the mesmerizing Castle Howard.
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11. Blarney Castle, Ireland
Did you know that you can actually visit the historic Blarney Castle, tucked away in the lush Irish countryside? Nestled just a stone’s throw from Cork City, this majestic castle invites you to explore its storied walls and gardens.
What’s a visit without kissing the famous Blarney Stone? It’s said to give you the gift of the gab! And with the castle opening its gates at 09:00, you’ve got the whole day to roam and discover. Don’t miss out on this genuine slice of Irish heritage — it’s waiting for you!
12. Windsor Castle, England
Step back in time with a visit to Windsor Castle, not only a royal home but also an astounding piece of history that you can explore. This living castle has been keeping watch over the English landscape for nearly a thousand years!
You’ll marvel at the lavish State Apartments and the intricate St. George’s Chapel. If timing is on your side, you might even witness the pomp of the changing guards. Grab your camera, because every corner of Windsor promises a snapshot straight out of a fairy tale, with grandeur that is as real as it gets!
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13. Prague Castle, Czech Republic
Perched high above the city, Prague Castle awaits with its olden charm and grand walls. It’s not just any old castle; this one has been around for over a thousand years. Imagine walking the same halls as ancient kings and queens!
You can explore the maze of gardens, poke around within the storied walls, and soak in the views of the city below. And if you’re a fan of snapping pictures, the vantage points here are top-notch.
So lace up your most comfortable shoes and make your way to Prague Castle, where the past isn’t just remembered, it’s vividly brought to life!
14. Moszna Castle, Poland
Have you ever dreamed of wandering through a magical castle straight out of a fairy tale? Moszna Castle in Poland is your chance to live that dream. This enchanting castle has an astonishing 365 rooms and 99 spires.
Fancy a walk in the lush, green surroundings? The castle’s expansive gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and they’re home to some seriously old trees. In fact, some oaks have been there for 300 years! Remember to snap some photos; this place looks like it’s been plucked right from a movie set.
It’s easy to see why this castle is a hit with visitors of all ages. So, don’t miss out on the magic of Moszna Castle—it’s waiting for you to discover its wonders.
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15. Catherine Palace, Russia
Splashed with colors that pop and grandeur that can’t help but draw a gasp, the Catherine Palace is a jewel in Russia’s architectural crown. Imagine sauntering through a place where emperors once waltzed! The palace’s history is as thick as its walls, and with a shiny restoration, every room tells a story.
The Amber Room stands out as the crown jewel, once lost to history, now shining bright for your amazement. It took craftsmen two decades to lavish this chamber with over six tons of amber.
