Medieval Castles in Europe to Explore

Perched on a lonely limestone hilltop in Brecon Beacons National Park, it is a ruined stronghold. Often shrouded in mist, Carreg Cennen is easily the most evocative castle in the land. And while it may not be quite as popular as the larger Caerphilly Castle, Carreg Cennen will always be first in our hearts. It’s open daily between April and October.

Located in Austria’s Salzachtal Valley amidst the dramatic peaks of the Berchtesgaden Alps. This stronghold has served alternately as a home to kings, archbishops, and prisoners for more than 900 years

Famous for being built into the side of a 400-foot cliff, filled with dungeons & secret tunnels. Visit Pedjama Castle during the annual medieval tournament, held each July, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Take a tour of the castle grounds, but leave time for an off-site walk along the myriad nearby trails. That’s where you’ll find the most stunning views for photographs.

The most photographed castle in the world, but there’s still nothing quite like seeing Germany’s fairy-tale castle in person. Take a tour of the castle grounds, but leave time for an off-site walk along the myriad nearby trails. That’s where you’ll find the most stunning views for photographs.

Enjoy the stark beauty of its surroundings, where three great lochs meet at the foot of an impressive mountain range. Today nearly every part of the castle is accessible to the public for tours and exploration.

At 2,805 feet above sea level, Hohenzollern Castle really is a castle in the clouds. The current fortress is actually the third to be built on the site (the first was destroyed in battle and the second fell into disrepair). Today it is a popular tourist attraction.

Edinburgh Castle towers over Scotland’s capital city from atop an extinct volcano called Castle Rock.

Go medieval with your next Europe Tour package, with a visit to one of these castles where ancient history is alive and well.