A Guide to a Fairy Tale Escape
You know when you see a picture of a castle in some photo on social media and it hardly looks real? Or, have you ever dreamed of a real-life castle of your favorite fairytale (maybe Beauty and the Beast or the Sleeping Beauty)? Well, they are real! We are going to tell you what are the most beautiful castles in the world and where you can find them. All of them look charming and picturesque, just like you imagined out of your favorite fairytale!
So, here is our ultimate list of the 10 most beautiful castles in the world. Get ready to step into a magical realm and explore these wonderful spots!
10 Most Beautiful Castles in the World – Summary
- Hohenschwangau, Germany
- Kylemore Abbey, Ireland
- Himeji Castle, Japan
- Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
- Dunrobin Castle, Scotland
- Amber Fort, India
- Pena Palace, Portugal
- Neuschwanstein, Germany
- Corfe Castle, England
- Château de Chambord, France
10. Château de Chambord, France
There are a large number of intriguingly beautiful castles in France, and Chateau de Chambord is at the top of the list. Known for its distinct Renaissance design, this castle is located in the Loire Valley in Central France. Majestic and sumptuous, Chateau de Chambord is one of the most beautiful castles in the world.
The French king Francois I built the castle as a ‘hunting lodge’. His emblem was a salamander, and you can have some fun exploring the castle with your TravelMates trying to find all of the 800 salamanders roaming the castle walls.
9. Corfe Castle, England
This castle situated by the beautiful Dorset landscapes in England is perched on top of a hill in all its mighty glory. Although only ruins are left, this castle is especially beautiful at sunset and sunrise, overlooking the rolling hills.
Now, only the castle’s ruins are left because it has been centuries since the castle stood. Thus, King Henry I built the castle in the 12th century. Don’t forget to check out the Jurassic Coast, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. All this is best done, of course, alongside some like-minded TravelMates!
8. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
You can tell that many modern-day fairytales are based around castles like this one. Neuschwanstein is known as the ultimate fairytale castle, located in Bavarian Germany. Thus, it is one of the most beautiful castles in that land of castles.
Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria to honor Richard Wagner, the castle certainly leaves an impression. The castle can be accessed from the town of Füssen nearby.
7. Pena Palace, Portugal
This colorful piece of art located in Portugal also deserves a spot on the list. Providing its viewers with a mix of different styles, including neo-Islamic, neo-Manueline, neo-Renaissance and neo-Gothic, this castle has really got it all. What’s best, the castle is easily reached by train from Lisbon (about a 45-minute train ride)– so even if you have some extra time during a layover, you can tick this castle off your bucket list.
6. Amber Fort, India
Built in 1592, this marble and red sandstone building in northern India is a sight to behold. Combining Hindu and Mughal architecture, this place is a must-see for any art lovers. The castle is also the main tourist attraction in the area of Jaipur, so be prepared to see a few other people here!
Once a royal fortress, Amber Fort is now a bucket list destination for everyone who visits India. Moreover, the distinctive architecture and beautiful colors of Amber Fort makes it one of the most beautiful castles in the world.
5. Dunrobin Castle, Scotland
As you landed in beautiful Scotland, head your way to the beautiful Dunrobin Castle. Located on the coast in Northern Scotland, the area that this castle is located in is simply jaw-dropping. Home to the Earls and later the Dukes of Sutherland, this palace is the definition of a royal family.
Designed in a Gothic-Victorian style, the Dunrobin Castle is an eye-candy. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles in the world. When visiting, you can explore its 189 rooms and see the on-site museum. Besides that, you can spend your time strolling through the dazzling gardens.
4. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Scotland never ceases to amaze us with its historical buildings. Head to Edinburgh and find this majestic castle sits on the top of a giant rock. The castle dates back as early as the 900 BC. However, in around the 11th century, it was repurposed as a royal fortress. Thus, it is the largest castle in Scotland.
There are so many things to see and do in Edinburgh Castle. You can explore the centuries-old rooms and chambers of the ancient castle. They are so charming, as the castle was once a royal residence of the Scottish monarch. Thus, you can also see the National Museum that displays a lot of magnificent artifacts. Therefore, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in the world that you must visit.
3. Himeji Castle, Japan
Okay, we’ve seen a lot of medieval castles in Europe, but this one offers a slightly different vibe. Known as a fine example of Japanese castle architecture, this castle was constructed by Akamatsu Norimura, ruler of the Harima Province in 1333 when the castle was built. The castle is situated basically directly between the cities of Osaka and Okayama.
Himeji Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in the world. This 13th century castle will spoil your sight with its distinctive architecture. Another tip to get the best out of Himeji Castle is to visit during spring and fall. In springtime, the castle is adorned with soft pink cherry blossom flowers. In fall, reddish colors surround the castle.
2. Kylemore Abbey, Ireland
Nestled on the banks of a glimmering lake, the snow-white castle stands out between the verdant landscape. Built in 1687, Kylemore Abbey is more than just a beauty. The Victorian castle was a romantic gift from Henry Mitchell, a wealthy merchant, to his wife Margaret. Now, the Gothic-style castle welcomes everyone who visit to marvel at its distinguished beauty.
Kylemore Abbey is a must-visit stop if you are on a road trip in Ireland! First of all, it is one of the most beautiful castles in the world. Then, the majestic castle has a lot to explore. You can stroll through ornate rooms and well-manicured gardens. Moreover, the color-contrast landscape of Kylemore Abbey looks amazing in camera. Thus, it sure calls the photography-lovers to come and visit!
1. Hohenschwangau Castle, Germany
Germany is the land of castles. Yes, the best castles in the world are mainly located in Germany. We have mentioned about Neuschwanstein Castle, the world-famous 19th century Bavarian castle. Thus, nearby it, stands a marvelous castle that can match Neuschwanstein’s beauty.
Hohenschwangau Castle is a beautiful royal castle that stands between lush hills and misty forests. It was originally built around the 12th century as the residence of the knights of Schwangau. However, in the 16th century, the castle was acquired by the Bavarian royal family. History says that King Ludwig II, the mighty king of Bavaria, spent his childhood in the castle.
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