is full of spectacular castles steeped in history, from medieval fortresses to Gothic-style castles complete with turrets, and many of them reside right here in the UK. With more than 10,000 castles across the contient, there’s plenty to choose from, whether you prefer taking history with a mountain view or staying close to the , there’s no shortage of options.
So, if you’re planning a trip abroad or even a staycation here in the UK, Express.co.uk has made a list of some of Europe’s most breathtaking castles that you can add to your itinerary. From to and , this list offers an abundance of spectacular sights to take in.
10. Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
A remnant of the Austrian empire, the Schonbrunn Palace formerly served as the principal summer residence of the Hapsburg rulers, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. Translating to ‘beautiful spring’, the Baroque-style palace was awarded the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site status in 1996. The picturesque site is even home to a decorative Roman ruin folly.
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9. Akershus Castle and Fortress, Norway
Located in Norway’s capital, Oslo, Akershus Castle dates back to the 1300s. Converted into a Renaissance-style castle under King Christian IV, it was initially built to defend the city. Complete with a church and two museums; visitors describe it as a great walking spot.
One user going by the name of MrsHodor on TripAdvisor said: “Go at about 7pm for a pre-sunset sky and you won’t be disappointed,” while another user called Christine added, “The climb up to the fortress is lovely with the harbor as a backdrop and the resistance museum, and the castle are both worth a visit.”
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8. Pena Palace, Portugal
This Romanticist castle is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal, with panoramic views of Sintra. Built in the 19th century, the yellow and orange-walled castle is complete with a sprawling 200-acre park that offers views all the way over to Lisbon and the Atlantic Ocean on clear days.
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7. Trakai Castle, Lithuania
Famous for its Gothic-style architecture, Trakai Island Castle is located in the heart of Lake Galve, an hour from Vilnius. Visitors reach the site by crossing a long wooden bridge. During the summer, the castle hosts medieval festivals and concerts.
Boats across the lake are available for hire, and in the winter, the lake freezes over, turning into a natural skating rink. Visitors have described it as a “must-do trip,” with one Tripadvisor user, fiamma11, saying that “Trakai Castle is a gorgeous outing for the entire family. The lake is beautiful, and the Trakai History Museum contained within the castle is a gem.”
(Image: Getty)
6. Segovia Alcazar, Spain
Dating back to the 12th century, Alcazar is one of the most renowned medieval castles globally. Its grand turrets make this historical site look like something out of a fairytale. Located in Segovia, a city northwest of Madrid, the last meeting between Christopher Colombus and King Ferdinand the Catholic occurred here.
(Image: Getty)