When you think of fairytales, you probably picture grand castles, misty forests, and magical kingdoms. Luckily, Europe is filled with castles that seem plucked right from the pages of a storybook. Whether perched high on a mountain or nestled in a scenic valley, these castles combine history, beauty, and a touch of fantasy. Perfect for romantic travelers, history lovers, or anyone chasing a bit of magic, here are 10 castles in Europe that look straight out of a fairytale.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany – The Real-Life Disney Castle
If you’ve ever seen a Disney movie, you’ve already been inspired by Neuschwanstein Castle. Set against the Bavarian Alps, this 19th-century Romanesque revival masterpiece is one of the most famous and photographed castles in the world.
Why it’s magical:
King Ludwig II built it as a fantasy retreat, and its whimsical turrets, dramatic cliffs, and alpine setting make it feel unreal.
Fairytale vibes:
- Snowy forests in winter and lush greenery in spring.
- Inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle.
- Panoramic views from Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge).
2. Château de Chambord, France – Renaissance Royalty at Its Finest
Located in the Loire Valley, the Château de Chambord is a masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture. With over 400 rooms and a unique double-helix staircase (rumored to be designed by Leonardo da Vinci), it’s the kind of castle you’d expect in a royal fairytale.
Why it’s magical:
Its vast towers, intricate roofs, and moat-like canals give it a dreamlike quality—especially in the morning mist.
Fairytale vibes:
- Grand spiral staircases and rooftop views.
- Surrounded by deer-filled forests and gardens.
- Perfect for a romantic picnic or a bike ride around the grounds.
3. Pena Palace, Portugal – A Colorful Mountain Dream
Sitting atop the Sintra Mountains, just outside Lisbon, Pena Palace is like something out of a fantasy film. Bright reds, yellows, and purples make it one of the most colorful castles in the world.
Why it’s magical:
It combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish styles for a surreal, whimsical design.
Fairytale vibes:
- Surrounded by mystical forests and fog.
- Views that stretch to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Perfect for couples or creative photographers.
4. Bran Castle, Romania – Dracula’s Legendary Fortress
Often linked to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Bran Castle has a moody, mysterious charm that’s both spooky and enchanting. Perched on a cliff in Transylvania, it’s everything you want in a gothic fairytale.
Why it’s magical:
Its towering spires, secret passageways, and medieval rooms evoke both romance and intrigue.
Fairytale vibes:
- Explore creepy corridors and ancient artifacts.
- Surrounded by misty woods and mountains.
- Great for fans of dark fairytales and legends.
5. Eltz Castle, Germany – Hidden Treasure in the Forest
Tucked deep in the hills of western Germany, Eltz Castle is still family-owned and completely preserved. It’s one of the few castles in Europe never destroyed, and it feels like it’s straight out of a fantasy novel.
Why it’s magical:
With its timber-framed upper stories and towering turrets, it’s the kind of place elves or princesses might live.
Fairytale vibes:
- Surrounded by forests and hiking trails.
- Misty mornings make it extra atmospheric.
- Interiors filled with antique furniture, armor, and tapestries.
6. Hohenzollern Castle, Germany – Cloud-Kissed Fortress
Hovering above the clouds on a hilltop, Hohenzollern Castle looks like it belongs in a fantasy movie. This neo-Gothic castle offers 360-degree views and an absolutely magical silhouette.
Why it’s magical:
It often rises above the fog, giving the illusion of floating in the sky.
Fairytale vibes:
- Walk the drawbridge into a world of knights and kings.
- Visit during sunrise for a dreamy view.
- Offers castle tours filled with Prussian treasures.
7. Chillon Castle, Switzerland – A Lakeside Dream
Set on the shores of Lake Geneva and backed by the Swiss Alps, Chillon Castle is an idyllic blend of romance and history. It looks like it could be the setting for a royal love story.
Why it’s magical:
The reflection of the castle on the water makes it one of the most photogenic spots in Europe.
Fairytale vibes:
- Explore medieval dungeons and banquet halls.
- Sunset over the lake feels straight out of a painting.
- Accessible by a beautiful lakeside walk from Montreux.
8. Castel del Monte, Italy – The Mysterious Octagon
Unlike any other castle on this list, Castel del Monte is mysterious, geometrically perfect, and steeped in legend. Built by Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century, its unique octagonal design adds to its mystical feel.
Why it’s magical:
Nobody knows exactly why it was built or what its true purpose was.
Fairytale vibes:
- Remote, hilltop location.
- Surrounded by myth and speculation.
- A symbol of harmony and mystery—perfect for a wizard’s tower!
9. Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria – Alpine Majesty
This dramatic fortress, set high above the Salzach Valley, looks like the backdrop of a medieval saga. With snow-covered peaks behind it and lush greenery below, Hohenwerfen Castle feels like it belongs in a fantasy kingdom.
Why it’s magical:
Eagles soar above it, and it even features in classic films like Where Eagles Dare.
Fairytale vibes:
- Falconry shows on the castle grounds.
- Towering cliffs and mountain trails.
- Candlelight tours available for extra enchantment.
10. Bojnice Castle, Slovakia – A True Fairytale Palace
Often considered the most romantic castle in Central Europe, Bojnice Castle is a fairytale fantasy made real. It looks like it came straight from a children’s book—with towers, frescoes, and even a dragon legend.
Why it’s magical:
The castle is a favorite for weddings, film shoots, and fantasy festivals.
Fairytale vibes:
- Surrounded by a landscaped park and lake.
- Hosts an annual Fairytale Festival for families and dreamers.
- Visit the castle caves and secret tunnels.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re wandering through foggy forests, crossing stone bridges, or standing in royal throne rooms, Europe’s fairytale castles are the stuff of dreams. Each one tells a different story—of kings and queens, legends and battles, romance and mystery.
So pack your camera, your sense of wonder, and maybe even a cloak—because these magical castles are waiting to sweep you into their stories.
Which of these fairytale castles would you love to visit first? Drop your favorite in the comments below!
