
I was born in Europe, lived here for eight years in my childhood, came back to visit many times while growing up in North America, and eventually moved back here in 2020, living first in Belgium and now in Austria.
All this to say, I've been lucky enough to have traveled Europe fairly extensively. It will never be enough and there is ALWAYS more to see in Europe, but I do like to think I've sampled quite a lot of what this continent has to offer.
→ Check out every country I have visited in Europe so far!
Europe is renowned for its history and what better way to experience this than with a visit to a castle or palace to learn about what made this continent what it is? And while I have not yet been to every castle and palace on my bucket list (which probably barely even scratches the surface of possible castles and palaces to visit in Europe), I have been to quite a few - 89 so far! I look forward to adding many more castles, palaces and fortresses across Europe in the future, but for now, enjoy!
This list gets updated as I visit more castles, palaces and fortresses; this post was first published 1 July 2024 and last updated 3 January 2025.
Festung Hohensalzburg
Where: Salzburg, Austria
Details: You must visit the Festung Hohensalzburg, the iconic fortress towering above Salzburg. Not only do you get to learn lots about the history of the city and how it got so wealthy, but you'll also have phenomenal views of the whole city. Perhaps the most well known symbol of Salzburg, this incredible structure rises high above the city and can be seen from all around the city and futher. You can hike up to the top from the Kapitelplatz or you can take the much quicker and easier FestungsBahn!
Read more: Things to Do in Salzburg in Summer & Best Viewpoints in Salzburg
Tickets: buy here

Mirabell Palace
Where: Salzburg, Austria
Details: Mirabell, along with the Palace at the end of it, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Palace features the Marmorsaal where Mozart used to perform and where you can go watch live performances to reminisce on what it might have been like. The gardens were also famously used as the filming location for the scene in the Sound of Music where the Von Trapp family and Maria sing "Do-Re-Mi".
Read more: Things to Do in Salzburg in Spring
Tickets: buy here

Schloss Hellbrunn
Where: Salzburg, Austria
Details: You can reach Hellbrunn on foot, by bike, by car or by public transport. The park is free to visit. Right at the entrance to the park you'll spot the pavilion from Sound of Music where they filmed "16 going on 17". Then you can meander your way through the idyllic park, and walk up the hill in the centre with sweeping views of the park, the city and the mountains surrounding. At Christmastime, the Adventzauber Christmas Market is held here.
Read more: Schlosspark Hellbrunn in Winter & Schlosspark Hellbrunn in Spring & Things to Do in Winter in Salzburg
Tickets: buy here

Schloss Schönbrunn
Where: Vienna, Austria
Details: One of the best-known icons of Vienna, Schloss Schönbrunn is surrounded by a massive park. In the heart of the Schlosspark Schönbrunn, you can take a brief hike up to the Gloriette which is probably the best view of all of Vienna laid out so beautifully and symetrically below, especially in a winter golden hour! At Christmastime, one of the most beautiful Christkindlmarkts in Vienna is held in the grounds here.
Tickets: buy here

Hofburg Palace
Where: Innsbruck, Austria
Details: Hofburg Palace is a former Habsburg Palace and is a beautiful piece of architecture. I did not go inside but it's considered one of the most important buildings in the country and well worth a visit.
Tickets: buy here

Schloss Leopoldskron
Where: Salzburg, Austria
Details: Schloss Leopoldskron is a beautiful castle located on the shores of Leopoldskroner Weiher, one of my favourite lakes in the city at all times of year. It was built betweeen 1736 and 1740 for the then-Archbishop of Salzburg, Leopold Anton Eleutherius Frieherr von Firmian as his personal summer residence. It is now most famous for being the Von Trapp family home in the film, The Sound of Music. Today, it is a gorgeous, luxury hotel and the home of the Salzburg Global Seminars.
Tickets: only accessible if a guest of the hotel, but you can view it perfectly from a walk around the lake (which you can also ice skate on when its frozen over in the winter!)

Kufstein Fortress
Where: Kufstein, Austria
Details: Kufstein Fortress is the pinnacle of the town, sitting high above the rest of the buildings, overlooking the Inn River, a tributary of the Danube. Mentioned for the first time in 1205 as Castrum Caofstein, Kufstein Fortress has been part of both Bavaria, Germany and Tyrol, Austria throughout history. You can hike up to Kufstein Fortress from the gift shop or you can ride the short bahn up the hill, the price of which is included in your ticket.

Royal Palace
Where: Brussels, Belgium
Details: Open every summer to visitors, the Royal Palace in the heart of the city is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and cobblestoned streets.
Tickets: buy here

Het Steen
Where: Antwerp, Belgium
Details: This beautiful medieval fortress sits on the riverfront of Antwerp, which was built after the Viking invasions in the Middle Ages. Het Steen is the oldest building in Antwerp and aided in the control of the River Scheldt. Prisoners were held here as well between 1303 and 1827. Today, it's a museum.
Tickets: buy here

Château Fort de Bouillon
Where: Bouillon, Belgium
Details: Sitting prominently near the border of France and the Ardennes, the Château fort de Bouillon is an impressive structure standing on an ideal geographic location, encircled on three sides by the River Semois and with stronghold hills all around. The Château fort de Bouillon was first mentioned in 988 but there has been a castle on the site for much longer. Most notably, in 1082, the castle was owned by Godefroy de Bouillon, one of the most famous crusaders. He sold the castle to finance his First Crusade. The castle was later updated to include artillery for Louis XIV. At its peak, there were once 200 soldiers living and working here.
Tickets: buy here

Château Fort de Crèvecœur
Where: Dinant, Belgium
Details: The ruins of this impressive castle have stumped historians as it seems the layout and purpose has changed many times over the years. Now, free to explore, the ruins offer a panoramic view over Dinant and the River Meuse.
Tickets: free!

Château de Vêves
Where: Dinant, Belgium
Details: The current castle was built in the 15th century after being burned down, but with history and foundations dating back to 670, the castle sits proudly on the popular route from Dinant to Rochefort.
Tickets: buy here

Château de Corroy-le-Château
Where: Gembloux, Belgium
Details: This was, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful castles we saw in all Wallonia. To get inside, you must pre-book a tour, but the views from the bridge are exceptional and invoke all sorts of fairytale-like images.
Tickets: buy here

Citadel of Namur
Where: Namur, Belgium
Details: The Citadel was built on the confluence of the two rivers thanks to the strategically strong defensive position. In its glory days, the Citadel of Namur was considered one of the best in all of Europe. Throughout its history (which started in prehistoric times but was first documented militarily speaking in the 3rd century AD), the Citadel has been a fort, a castle, counts' residences, a King's summer home, leisure and cultural centre, sports stadium and, in the Second World War, barracks and underground fortifications were added.
Tickets: buy here

Dubrovnik Fortress
Where: Dubrovnik, Croatia
Details: Considered a fortress thanks to the four impressive towers and historic town walls surrounding the entire historic core of Dubrovnik, this enchanting city is one of the best-preserved examples of Medieval history in the whole world. The best views of the entire fortress can be seen from a hike or cable car ride up nearby Mount Srđ. One of the most popular (and expensive!) activities in the city is to walk the historic old walls the entire way around Dubrovnik. I loved Dubrovnik and my favourite thing to do was simply get lost wandering through all the old streets.
Tickets: hike Mount Srđ for free or pay to ride the cable car and walk the historic city walls

Fort Lovrijenac
Where: Dubrovnik, Croatia
Details: Sitting just outside the city walls of Dubrovnik, we didn't pay to go inside this fort, built in the 16th century, as it was €15 at the time of writing, but the view from the front gate overlooking the entire Old Town of Dubrovnik is seriously worth the climb.
Tickets: buy here

Paphos Castle
Where: Paphos, Cyprus
Details: The old town of Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks in part to its long and detailed history, such as the iconic Paphos Castle that juts out from the harbour into the Mediterranean. The castle was originally built as a fort to protect Paphos Harbour and was rebuilt after an earthquake destroyed it in 1222. Throughout its life, the structure has been a fortress, a prison, a salt warehouse and since 1935, has been listed as an important cultural and historical building.
Tickets: €2,50

Kyrenia Harbour Castle
Where: Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus
Details: Kyrenia Castle lies right on the harbour in Kyrenia in Northern Cyprus, a fascinating part of the Cypriot Island to visit beyond the UN Buffer Zone. The castle has housed Byzantinians, Lusignans, Venetians and Ottomans.
Tickets: 20 Turkish lira (about €0.60)

Prague Castle
Where: Prague, Czechia
Details: The impressive Prague Castle rises high above the city with sweeping views over the iconic red roofs of the city. It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest castle complex in the world. Built in the 9th century, it was once the seat of power for kings and emperors and today is the official office of the President of Czechia. You can purchase tickets to visit various parts of the interior of the castle but the best part of all is the view of the city below.
Tickets: buy here

Český Krumlov Castle
Where: Český Krumlov, Czechia
Details: The entire city has a brilliant view looking towards the castle and its impressive tower. I think the Castle Tower was my favourite thing in the whole town as the view from the top of the steps (which are quite tight!) is seriously beautiful. A 360° panoramic view from the top deck gives the perfect sight of Český Krumlov laid out below. There is also a small museum on site. After, wandered through the cobbled street that runs right underneath it from the Castle Tower and ends at Cloak Bridge. The impressive arched Cloak Bridge has jaw-dropping views of Český Krumlov, especially showing how the little town is surrounded by the Vltava River.
Tickets: buy here

Frederiksborg Castle
Where: Hillerød, Denmark
Details: Frederiksborg Castle was built by King Christian IV between 1600 and 1620 with a primary goal of showing off how powerful he was as a European monarch. The castle was used as a royal residence for 100 years before becoming the royal portrait collection from the 1730s. It once again became a home when King Frederik VII and later his wife Louise Ramussen moved in in the mid-19th century which saw many modern upgrades to the castle. Unfortunately, their addition of a new stove to heat a large room cause a major fire in 1859 destroying much of the property. It was rebuilt through nationwide collection funds and never used as a royal residence again. Since its reopening in 1878, it has been home to the Museum of Natural History, funded by J. C. Jacobsen, the founder of Carlsberg beer.
Tickets: buy here

Egeskov Castle
Where: Kværndrup, Denmark
Details: Egeskov Castle and its stunning moat and grounds are closed during the winter so we couldn't actually get any closer than the photos but it was still a pretty sight at golden hour. It is considered Europe's best preserved Renaissance water castle, built in 1554. The Bille-Brahe family has owned the castle since 1784.
Tickets: buy here

Buckingham Palace
Where: London, England
Details: Walk under the Admiralty Arch to The Mall down from Trafalgar Square past St. James Park. At the end of this road sits the impressive and famous Buckingham Palace, the London home of the Royal Family.
Tickets: free to see from the outside, no public access to the inside

Corfe Castle
Where: Dorset, England
Details: It had long been a dream of mine to visit the castle that inspired one of my favourite series of all time. Enid Blyton's Famous Five Adventures are often based around an enchanting castle by the name of Kirrin Castle, on Kirrin Island. Corfe Castle is owned by the National Trust and is located in Wareham, Dorset.
Read more: Visiting Corfe Castle
Tickets: buy here

Nottingham Castle
Where: Nottingham, England
Details: Built on Castle Rock, a museum displays the magnificent history of the 17th century castle, once a royal fortress and royal household. And of course, right outside, you can't miss good old Robin Hood. He made this place famous with his 'robbing the rich to give to the poor' tales, inspiring the legendary Tales of Robin Hood.
Tickets: buy here

Royal Pavilion
Where: Brighton, England
Details: The Pavilion is a gorgeous royal seaside palace full of wonderful artifacts and artworks, all overlooking a vibrantly coloured and well-kept garden.
Tickets: buy here

Château de Versailles
Where: Versailles, France
Details: The Chateau de Versailles was grandiose and extravagant; as we moved from room to room, each was more over-decorated than the last. Versailles Palace is the epitome of Louis XIV’s vision of the absolute monarchy. The grounds cover over 800 hectares of land, meaning it takes more than an hour to walk from the Palace to the end of the Grand Canal near the edge of the estate border!
Tickets: buy here

Château de Nice
Where: Nice, France
Details: Just above the best sunset spot in the city, a gruelling set of stairs awaits those willing to fight the sweat and heat. The notes of an accordion greeted us at the top and proceeded to serenade us as we stared down over a beautiful Nice in front of us.
Read more: Nice, the Nicest Place in France
Tickets: free!

Neuschwanstein Castle
Where: Schwangau, Germany
Details: One of the most visited tourist sites in Europe, one of the most famous castles in the world, and arguably one of the most spectacular, Neuschwanstein Castle, nestled deep in the Bavaria countryside of southern Germany, is quite the wonder. The castle was never meant to see strangers; King Ludwig II had it built from 1869 as a retreat from the public eye and a spot to maintain his life-long preference of isolation. Inspired by the Wartburg Castle in Eisenach, Germany, and the Chateau de Pierrefonds in France, Neuschwanstein sits magestically on a peak above a forest, with panoramic views to the lakes and sprawling farmland of the vicinity.
Tickets: buy here

Residenz München Castle
Where: Munich, Germany
Details: The gardens of the 17th century Residenz München Castle are well worth a wander for a slice of greenery and peace in the bustling city.
Tickets: buy here

Heidelberg Palace
Where: Heidelberg, Germany
Details: Heidelberg is famous for its acclaimed palace on the hill well-known for it's stunning views and deep history. The Renaissance-style Heidelberg Palace is mostly in ruins thanks to sieges in the 17th and 18th centuries, most of the insides are just renovated function spaces for dinners and shows.
Tickets: I didn't think the tour was worth it, but the outside is beautiful!

Brühl Palaces
Where: Cologne, Germany
Details: The Brühl Palaces are made up of two palaces: Augustusburg Palace, the main building, which was built as a summer residence for Clemens August, the Prince-Elector of Cologne between 1729-37, and then the Falkenlust Palace nearby which was mainly used as a hunting lodge. There are beautiful gardens on the land as well to wander.
Read more: Visiting the Brühl Palaces
Tickets: buy here

Burg zu Burghausen
Where: Burghausen, Germany
Details: Burghausen is on the border between Austria and Germany, nestled against the quiet banks of the Salzach, the burg dominating the skyline and the sun shining down on the pretty pastel coloured Aldstadt. Burghausen Castle is the longest castle complex in all of Europe!
Read more: Burghausen Photo Diary
Tickets: free!

Burgruine Karlstein
Where: Bad Reichenhall, Germany
Details: Karlstein Castle, which dates back to 1150 built by the Pelsteiners, was first mentioned in 1208. In its heyday, a bustling Bavarian palace under the Tauersteins, these ruins have been in disrepair since the 17th century. You can park just below the Brugruine Karlstein and then hike about 15 minutes up a small trail and some metal steps to reach the ruins. Archaeological digs from this area have found evidence of Bronze and Urnfield dwellings, but nothing since the Middle Ages. Now, there are some distinct outer walls remaining and two towers, as well as what would have been the water collector in the centre of a courtyard. The view from the top over Bad Reichenhall is incredible. Renovations in 2012 ensured the castle ruins could be safely reopened fo the public to explore.
Read more: Visiting Burgruine Karlstein
Tickets: free!

Eremitage
Where: Bayreuth, Germany
Details: Eremitage is a palace complex including an Old Palace and New Palace with gardens surrounding them, built in 1715 by Margrave Georg Wilhelm which he gifted to his wife 20 years later. As you can only visit with a guided tour, we spent a cold frosty morning wandering the extensive gardens and enjoying the exterior architecture of the Old and New Palaces.
Tickets: the gardens are free to visit, but the inside of the Eremitage palaces can be only be visited with a guided tour; book here

The Moorish Castle
Where: Gibraltar
Details: While inside is not exceptional, you can climb up the winding staircase to the top of the tower and take in the view back towards Spain and particularly get a great view of the world's 4th shortest runway - one that is so short and difficult to land on you need a special license to do so!
Tickets: buy here

Buda Castle
Where: Budapest, Hungary
Details: My favourite part of Buda Castle was the Fisherman's Bastion, essentially a massive viewing platform high up over the city offering the best views of Budapest. Built between 1895 and 1902 in celebration of the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian State, you can idly spend an afternoon with an ice cream or coffee here, perched in one of the many arches overlooking the Danube.
Tickets: buy here

Szigligeti Var
Where: Lake Balaton, Hungary
Details: Szigligeti Var is an impressive medieval fortress. Built 750 years ago, this medieval fortress is perched on Várhegy hill. It was built from 1260 by Favus of Pannonhalma and once protected the lake.

Dunguaire Castle
Where: Galway, Ireland
Details: On our five-day roadtrip around Ireland, we stopped at the ruins of Dunguaire Castle on our drive from Galway down the west coast towards the Cliffs of Moher.
Read more: 5 Day Roadtrip Around Ireland
Tickets: buy here

Ross Castle
Where: Killarney, Ireland
Details: On our five-day roadtrip around Ireland, we stopped at the incredible ruins of Ross Castle and Muckross Abbey after our time on Ring of Kerry.
Read more: 5 Day Roadtrip Around Ireland
Tickets: €5

Kilkenny Castle
Where: Kilkenny, Ireland
Details: On our five-day roadtrip around Ireland, on our last day, we stopped for lunch in Kilkenny after our morning at the Rock of Cashel and spotted the beautiful Kilkenny Castle overlooking the town and river.
Read more: 5 Day Roadtrip Around Ireland
Tickets: buy here

Castel Angelo
Where: Rome, Italy
Details: I enjoyed just wandering along the River Tiber and taking in the pretty views. The Castel Sant'Angelo was built in the 2nd century and you can visit to explore what life was like during the Renaissance era.
Tickets: buy here

Doge's Palace
Where: Venice, Italy
Details: While visiting Venice, one of the most magical cities I've ever had the joy of exploring, one of the best highlights was our morning spent visiting Doge's Palace / Palazzo Ducale. Highlights of the Doge's Palace include exploring the many rooms where justice, administration and other government functions were carried out, as well as spotting the world's largest canvas painting. We also got to cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs, so named for the sighs of the prisoners being led across to jail.
Tickets: buy here

Palazzo dei Priori
Where: Perugia, Italy
Details: Situated on the edge of the Piazza IV Novembre, this 13th century plaza feels like the heart of Perugia, where people come to mingle, find a seat in the shady steps of the Palace or the Cathedral, have a drink at a cafe on the perimeter, go shopping...
Read more: A Complete Guide to Perugia
Tickets: buy here

Rocca Maggiore
Where: Assisi, Italy
Details: Assisi is most well-known for being the home of St. Francis, born there in 1181. He grew up in a comfortable, wealthy life before famously shedding all this luxury to live a life in service of God. He created the Franciscan order and became a saint two years after his death in 1228. Today, you can visit the Basilica of St. Francis, with beautiful frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis. I also highly recommend wandering through the sweet town and walking up to Rocca Maggiore for the best viewpoint over the town and Basilica.
Read more: 3 Towns to Visit in Umbria
Tickets: buy here

Castello Brown
Where: Portofino, Italy
Details: Opened in 1425, the imposing Castello Brown sits high above the Portofino Harbour and can be seen from nearly everywhere in town. From the harbour, you need to walk up the hill into the castle gardens and grounds. This specific site, with its ideal location jutting out into the ocean, has military defense history dating back to Roman times.
Tickets: €5 entry fee can be paid at the harbour - no need to buy it in advance

Castel San Pietro
Where: Verona, Italy
Details: Take it from me - this free viewpoint is absolutely worth the trek up the steps. You'll get simply breathtaking views of every angle of Verona including the Ponte Pietra far below and the waterfront looking over the Adige River.
Tickets: free!

Castel San Pietro is on the hill on the right side
Castello Scaligero di Sirmione
Where: Lake Garda, Italy
Details: This sweet little castle was built in the 13th century and is the key landmark of Sirmione. Surrounded completely by the water of the lake, it is accessible only by small footbridge. We didn't go inside, but tickets are available to visit the castle and climb to the top to take in the views of Sirmione.
Tickets: buy here

Castello Scaligero di Malcesine
Where: Lake Garda, Italy
Details: Perhaps the most famous landmark in Malcesine is the medieval Castelleo Scaligero di Malcesine sitting proudly overlooking the lake. We didn't go inside the castle, but you can purchase tickets on-site to visit this beautiful structure.
Tickets: buy here

Schloss Vaduz
Where: Vaduz, Liechtenstein
Details: Vaduz dates back to 1150, and the region was originally a province under the Romans. In 1719, Emperor Charles VI united Vaduz with other parts of the country, which altogether became the Imperial Principality of Liechtenstein, with its capital at Vaduz. The castle above the city has been the seat of the Prince of Liechtenstein since 1939.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in Vaduz
Tickets: free to see from the outside, no public access to the inside

Larochette Castle
Where: Larochette, Luxembourg
Details: While historians estimate there has been a structure of sorts on this site since the 12th century, the ruins of the the grand Larochette Castle are neo-classical (18th century). Sitting majestically above the little town, the castle ruins are open to explore.
Read more: 4 Things to See in Larochette & Castles to Visit in Luxembourg
Tickets: free!

Bourscheid Castle
Where: Bourscheid, Luxembourg
Details: Bourscheid itself is a quiet place, but the castle here jutting out on a promontory is epic. You can spot it from the road as your bus makes its way into town and it's truly a masterpiece on the skyline. You'll need to walk a bit from the bus stop, but the path is pleasant and partly through a forest.
Read more: Castles to Visit in Luxembourg
Tickets: €7

Castle Vianden
Where: Vianden, Luxembourg
Details: Castle Vianden is known as one of the most beautiful in all Europe. Sitting poignantly above the town of Vianden, Castle Vianden is the largest castle in all of Luxembourg. There's a fantastic viewpoint if you follow the steps up from Neipiertchen, across the street from the Auberge Du Chateau which is well worth the walk.
Read more: Vianden, Luxembourg's Cutest Town & Castles to Visit in Luxembourg
Tickets: buy here

New Castle of Ansembourg
Where: Ansembourg, Luxembourg
Details: The New Castle of Ansembourg was built in the 17th century by a wealthy industrialist family. Today, the castle is privately owned and is rented out for events, so while you cannot go inside, you can marvel at the stunning grounds and gardens around the exterior which you may visit for free and enjoy.
Tickets: free to see from the outside, no public access to the inside

Palais Grand-Ducal
Where: Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Details: The palace of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg, this is one of the most famous buildings in Luxembourg. It's majestic, grand and right in the heart of the city.
Read more: 3 Best Views in Luxembourg City
Tickets: open to the public for part of the year only - check dates and buy here

Prince's Palace of Monaco
Where: Monaco
Details: The Place du Palais, the square right outside the Prince’s Palace has some sweet cafes dotted around with views of the palace. It was like stepping into the scene of Princess Diaries, and I half expected Queen Clarisse Rinaldi to come waltzing out! It is in fact Albert II Grimaldi who currently reigns over Monaco, the son of Prince Rainier III and Grace Kelly.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in Monaco
Tickets: open to the public for part of the year only - check dates and buy here

Noordeinde Palace
Where: The Hague, Netherlands
Details: The Dutch royal family has three official palaces across the country, with this being one of them. It is known as the working palace.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in The Hague
Tickets: open to the public for part of the year only - check dates and buy here

Peace Palace
Where: The Hague, Netherlands
Details: One of the most iconic sights symbolizing international peace is the Peace Palace is where the United Nations' International Court of Justice, the Hague Academy of International Law and the Peace Palace Library can be found. The Palace has been operating since 1913.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in The Hague
Tickets: buy here

Royal Palace
Where: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Details: In the heart of Amsterdam, bordering one side of Dam Square, you can find the beautiful Royal Palace. This building is the King's official reception palace.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in Amsterdam
Tickets: buy here

Akershus Fortress
Where: Oslo, Norway
Details: Opened in 1300, this iconic medieval castle sits proudly on Olsohavn overlooking Oslofjord and has been the home of royalty and political seats throughout history.
Read more: A Weekend in Oslo
Tickets: buy here

Wawel Royal Castle
Where: Kraków, Poland
Details: The Wawel Royal Castle & Cathedral, widely considered the most important buildings in all of Poland. Wawel was one of twelve places on the first ever published list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1978. The Wawel Complex is situated in the south of the city, perched high on Wawel Hill.
Read more: Visiting Wawel Royal Castle & Cathedral & A Guide to Kraków
Tickets: buy here

Imperial Palace
Where: Poznań, Poland
Details: Built from 1905 to 1910 for the German Emperor Wilhelm II, the Imperial Castle in Poznań is the most recently built monarchical residence in all of Europe - a difference from how most places here are known for how old they are! He only lived there a few years once Poland gained their independence after the First World War. In the interwar years, it housed a university, whose math graduates went on to crack the Enigma code in the Second World War. Another connection to WWII: Hitler had an office here and it was also the residence of the Poznań Nazi governor of the time. It is now a cultural centre and museum.
Tickets: buy here

Palace of Culture & Science
Where: Warsaw, Poland
Details: In the centre of the city, right outside the central station, the symbol of communism in Warsaw dominates the skyline. It was commissioned by Stalin as a gift from the Soviet people, but ironically was inspired by the Empire State Building, a symbol of capitalism. The building incorporates architectural elements from all across Poland and was, as the party's headquarters, designed to emulate communism as 'the people's castle,' even inviting the best workers in the city to the annual New Year's Eve Balls.
Read more: A Guide to Warsaw
Tickets: buy here

Royal Castle
Where: Warsaw, Poland
Details: Outside the Royal Castle, which still shows remnants of destruction from the Second World War, is the Sigismund's Column. One of the tallest monuments at the time it was built, this was a controversial column as it depicted a king instead of the typical religious persons. It was destroyed during the Warsaw Uprising of 1944; the destroyed column remnants are on display in front of the Royal Castle and a reconstruction now stands in Castle Square.
Read more: A Guide to Warsaw
Tickets: buy here

King Jan III's Palace
Where: Warsaw, Poland
Details: One of the few surviving examples of pre-war Warsaw, King Jan III's opulent yellow palace is just south of the city. Much of Warsaw's reputation is that of WWII and the post-war communist era, but to visit this palace is to understand what a rich culture there was before. Once the centre of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth (the largest territory in 16th century Europe), this beautiful palace was first built in 1676 by King Jan III Sobieski as a country retreat outside of the city of Warsaw. It was expanded at various points throughout history by its different owners including many notable Polish families.
Read more: A Guide to Warsaw & Visiting King Jan III's Palace
Tickets: free on Thursdays - for other days, buy here

Castelo de Sào Jorge
Where: Lisbon, Portugal
Details: I didn't go inside, but the view from outside the massive castle, built in the 11th century, that stands tall in the heart of the city high on a hill, is one of the best in all of Lisbon.
Read more: 9 Best Viewpoints in Lisbon & 13 Things to See in Lisbon
Tickets: buy here

Palácio Nacional da Ajuda
Where: Lisbon, Portugal
Details: Up until the 19th century, the Portuguese royal family called this opulently decorated palace home. Ornate rooms take up the space where you are free to wander, spotting artwork, architecture and furniture from around the world lavishly filling the rooms.
Tickets: buy here

Castelo de Óbidos
Where: Óbidos, Portugal
Details: Óbidos is a wonderful half-day trip from Lisbon where visitors can walk the entire perimeter of the town from high above on the castle walls, wander the idyllic streets and enjoy a slower pace for a while.
Read more: Photo Diary of Óbidos
Tickets: free to walk the entire walls around the town - the interior is now a hotel

Palácio Nacional de Sintra
Where: Sintra, Portugal
Details: Built in the 11th century, this palace sits right in the heart of the city and is likely one of the first main buildings you'll come across. With sweeping views across the region from the plaza, you can visit the palace gardens for free or do a paid visit of the opulent interiors.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in Sintra
Tickets: buy here

Castelo dos Mouros
Where: Sintra, Portugal
Details: The ruins of this 10th century castle tucked up in the hills can be reached with a hike up from town. The trail goes past the house Hans Christian Andersen once stayed in while living in Sintra, before winding through beautiful forest and out to 360 degree views of Sintra and the far reaches beyond.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in Sintra
Tickets: buy here

Parque e Palácio Nacional da Pena
Where: Sintra, Portugal
Details: Perhaps the most famous spot in all of Sintra, this colourful palace is the most iconic image you can conjure in your mind when you think of this region. It's extremely popular and very busy, but the brightly decorated facades and royal ornate interiors - featuring some of Portugal's first bathrooms! - are well worth the wander.
Read more: How to Spend a Day in Sintra
Tickets: buy here

Paço dos Duques
Where: Guimarães, Portugal
Details: In the medieval times, the Dukes used to live and work here - grandiose rooms and ornate architecture make up this building, furnished with period pieces including impressive tapestries, carvings and china.
Read more: 7 Things to Do in Guimarães
Tickets: buy here

Castelo de Guimarães
Where: Guimarães, Portugal
Details: The crowning jewel of the city is this massive castle ruin perched on the hill. On a clear day, you can get panoramic views of all of Guimarães - on a rainy day, you still get some pretty neat views of the Duke's Palace below!
Read more: 7 Things to Do in Guimarães
Tickets: buy here

Palácio da Bolsa
Where: Porto, Portugal
Details: One of Porto's most stunning buildings can be found just north of the Ribeira, Porto's waterfront, in the Infante D. Henrique Square. The Palácio da Bolsa or Bolsa Palace was never actually a palace for royals - it's the old stock exchange building of Porto where, to this day, economic business activity is conducted. The building is simply exquisite. Each room was more ornate, intricate and over the top than the one before.
Read more: 17 Things to See in Porto & Visiting Bolsa Palace
Tickets: buy here

Public Palace of the Republic
Where: San Marino
Details: Built in the late 1800s, this is the main building in San Marino and is the home of San Marino's government. The inside was closed when I visited due to an annual important political event, but I still spotted the guards in their beautiful dark green and red uniforms.
Tickets: buy here

Three Towers
Where: San Marino
Details: The Three Towers of San Marino are three towers atop Mount Titano, which is the highest point of San Marino in the city of San Marino. They are called Guaita, Cesta and Montale, representing the defence of freedom, a core value of San Marino. I highly recommend paying to enter the towers as you can get the best views in the entire country, and learn a bit about the history of defending San Marino.
Read more: A Complete Guide to San Marino
Tickets: buy here

Belgrade Fortress
Where: Belgrade, Serbia
Details: Of course, the most iconic spot in all of Belgrade is the Fortress. First built in 279 BC, this big fortress has multiple layers including the old citadel and Kalemegdan Park. The fortress overlooks where the Sava and Danube rivers connect. For most of Belgrade's history, the Belgrade Fortress housed the entire city population and so the history of the fortress is the history of Belgrade itself.
Tickets: free!

Bratislava Castle
Where: Bratislava, Slovakia
Details: Bratislava's most famous icon is the white castle up on the hill. Built originally in 907 AD, the castle only received its white coat of paint in 2012 and has changed looks many times throughout its history thanks to damage and usage in various situations, such as a fortress, royal residence and army barracks. The castle houses a small museum today and pretty baroque-style gardens. From the plaza in front of the castle, looking down over the Danube River below, you can actually spot three countries at once - Hungary to the left, Slovakia in front, and Austria to the right!
Read more: A Weekend in Bratislava
Tickets: buy here

Primatial Palace
Where: Bratislava, Slovakia
Details: Built in the 1700s for the Archbishop József Cardinal Batthyány, this palace was the signing of the fourth Peace of Pressburg in its most famous room, the Hall of Mirrors, the signing of which ultimately led to the dissolving of the Holy Roman Empire. The Hall of Mirrors is still used to this day for welcoming guests and important meetings, and the palace itself is now the seat of the Mayor of Bratislava.
Read more: A Weekend in Bratislava
Tickets: buy here

Royal Alcázar of Sevilla
Where: Sevilla, Spain
Details: There are many incredible things to do in Sevilla, but the crowning glory of them all is of course a visit to the Royal Alcázar, the massive palace complex in the heart of the city. Historically known as al-Qasr al-Muriq, the royal palace here was built for the Christian King Peter of Castile on the site of an Abbadid Muslim alcazar (fortress). The history here is exceptional, having played host to royal weddings, births and other key events and is still to this day the official residence of the Spanish royal family in Sevilla.
Read more: A Guide to Sevilla & Visting the Royal Alcázar of Sevilla
Tickets: buy here

The Alhambra
Where: Granada, Spain
Details: Perhaps the most well-known monuments of Islamic architecture and considered one of the best-preserved in the world, the Alhambra is an expansive palace and fortress on the hillside of Granda, overlooking the city below.
Tickets: free, except the Palacios Nazaríes

Alcazaba of Málaga
Where: Málaga, Portugal
Details: The vivacious and lively city of Málaga, just under three hours away by train, makes a great day trip. More touristy than Sevilla, the biggest tourist attraction in the city is the beautiful Alcazaba, nestled on the hillside of the city. An Alcazaba is a traditional Moorish fortress found across Spain and Portugal; the one in Málaga was built in the 11th century and is considered to be the best preserved Alcazaba in all of Spain.
Read more: Visiting the Alcazaba of Málaga
Tickets: free on Sunday afternoons - for other days, buy here

Castillo de Santa Catalina
Where: Cádiz, Spain
Details: This 17th century fortress sits on the northern tip of the Cádiz coast with postcard-like views back towards the city.
Tickets: free!

Castillo de Peñíscola
Where: Peñíscola, Spain
Details: Peñíscola Castle sits atop the mound of Peñíscola and has historically played host to the Order of the Knights Templar and even though it was never considered completed, apparently withstood sieges and battles aplenty. The ticket to the castle also includes access to the little El parc d'artilleria garden below the castle from which you can get pretty views out over the ocean.
Read more: Visiting Peñíscola Castle
Tickets: buy here

Castell de Xàtiva
Where: Xàtiva, Spain
Details: The Castell de Xàtiva was built in medieval times and with a long history of being captured and defended, it was destroyed in the southern Spain earthquake of 1748 and rendered useless after that, left to crumble on the hill before being restored and opened to visitors to explore.
Read more: Visiting the Castell de Xàtiva
Tickets: buy here

Ibiza Castle / Castell d'Eivissa
Where: Ibiza, Spain
Details: This 13th century medieval castle at the top of the Dalt Vila has bastions, cannons and incredible views of the Balearic Sea to offer.
Read more: 6 Things to Do on Ibiza
Tickets: free!

Castell de la Santa Bàrbara
Where: Alicante, Spain
Details: Perhaps the most famous spot in Alicante - and for good reason, it dominates the skyline! - is the impressive Santa Bàrbara Castle, perched high on the Mount Benacantil and built in the ninth century. It's been dominated at various points in history by many different religions and cultures, and today its a stunning place to explore with the best 360-degree views of the entire city.
Read more: Best Things to See in Alicante
Tickets: free!

Royal Palace
Where: Stockholm, Sweden
Details: Visiting Gamla Stan, the oldest part of Stockholm dating back to the 17th century, was a highlight of our visit. Situated on a small island just south of the downtown area, every corner is oozing with magic. Sure, it's a bit touristy with plenty of souvenir shops, but look past that to find the idyllic streets, the cozy cafes and the photogenic alleys. You can also find the Royal Palace here, the official residence of the royal family of Sweden.
Read more: A Winter Guide to Stockholm
Tickets: buy here

Cardiff Castle
Where: Cardiff, Wales
Details: The highlight of our day in Cardiff was our visit to the grand and magnificent Cardiff Castle. The architecture is beautiful, the decoration is detailed and there's a brilliant lookout point where you can see almost all of Cardiff surrounding the castle grounds. Although you can do a self-guided tour and visit at your own pace, I highly recommend the guided tour of Cardiff Castle. The tour guides are very knowledgeable, and will lead you in around the castle so you don't miss any of the crucial parts that are the most fascinating.
Read more: Visiting Cardiff Castle
Tickets: buy here

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Hi! I’m Jana, a Dutch-German-British-Canadian with a dream of seeing every country in the world. I am a storyteller, photographer and adventurer passionate about documenting and sharing my travels.