9 Castles in Europe Worthy of Their Icon Status

Neuschwanstein Castle looks like it leapt from a fairy tale. King Ludwig II, known for his love of art and solitude, built it in the 19th century. Perched above a village in the Bavarian Alps, this romantic castle inspired Walt Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle.

Its architecture—incorporating Gothic, Romanesque, and Byzantine influences—along with its cliffside towers and picturesque surroundings, make it one of the most beautiful and famous castles in the world.

Visitors can tour the lavish rooms, explore nearby hills, or simply admire the absolutely stunning view from the parking lot.

Eilean Donan Castle is located where three sea lochs meet. This dramatic castle sits on a small island and connects to the mainland by a charming stone bridge.

Originally built in the 13th century to fend off Viking raids, it was rebuilt in the 20th century and has become a popular filming location.

Surrounded by rugged hills and water, Eilean Donan is a bucket list favorite for tourists seeking traditional castle vibes. Whether you're driving a car or taking a train, it’s one of the best castles to visit in Scotland.

Windsor Castle is a working royal palace and one of the most amazing castles still in use. Built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it remains a favored residence of the British royal family.

The castle is situated in the town of Windsor (west of London) and includes iconic Gothic architecture, a royal chapel, and lush gardens. It’s an excellent location for a day trip, complete with guided tours and the famous changing of the guard.

Malbork Castle is one of the largest castles in the world by land area and a fortress that dominates the Nogat River in northern Poland. Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, its massive red brick walls reflect a distinctly medieval character.

Today, visitors can walk through the castle’s halls, explore historical exhibitions, and enjoy panoramic views of the river. The guided tours offer deep dives into the castle’s role in the region's military and political history.

Often called the most romantic castle in England, Leeds Castle is surrounded by a moat and expansive gardens. It served as a royal palace for six queens and a retreat for King Edward I.

Located in Kent, this amazing castle offers property tours, falconry shows, and even overnight stays. It’s one of the best castles for those wanting a mix of history and modern services.

Situated on Castle Hill, Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline of Scotland's capital. This fortress has watched over the city since the 12th century and has played a key role in wars, coronations, and royal life.

The castle houses the Crown Jewels of Scotland, historic cannons, and offers panoramic views of the beautiful city below. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Scottish history.

Warwick Castle is a classic medieval stronghold originally built in 1068. Located in central England, it offers one of the most immersive historical experiences.

Tourists can explore towers, walk along the battlements, and even attend jousting events. This fortress mixes entertainment with education, making it one of the most dramatic castles to visit.

The Royal Castle in Warsaw was completely destroyed during World War II but has since been reconstructed with stunning precision. Situated in the heart of the capital, it stands as a symbol of Poland's resilience.

Inside, visitors will find rooms restored to their 18th-century splendor. It sits close to the Vistula River, making it an ideal stop while exploring the city.

Located in the Loire Valley, this French royal palace combines Renaissance flair with medieval strength. The Château de Chambord is known for its double-helix staircase and intricate towers.

It’s one of the most beautiful castles in France, surrounded by forests and gardens. Visitors can walk through vast halls once graced by French royalty.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.