Top 50 Most Famous Castles In The World   


 

Castles are some of the most iconic and romantic structures in the world. These magnificent buildings were built for a variety of reasons, including defense, status, and luxury, and were used as military strongholds, royal residences, and even places of worship.

Some of these castles are unique and treasured landmarks that are open to the public as museums and tourist attractions. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about their history, and catch breathtaking views of their surroundings.

Some of the castles in this list include Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle, Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, France’s Château de Chambord, and the elegant Windsor Castle in England. They all have a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

When planning a visit to any of these castles, please check their official websites for contacts and further information on how to get there, the opening hours, admission fees, and information about any special events that may be taking place during your visit. Here are the top 50 most famous castles in the world. 

1. Windsor Castle, England 

Photo by Simon Hurry on Unsplash

Owned by King Charles III in right of the Crown and operated by the Royal Household, Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, located in Berkshire, England. It is a complex of buildings set in a 5-hectare (12-acre) Upper Ward, with a Lower Ward that contains St George’s Chapel and some of the town’s commercial and residential buildings.  

The Upper Ward is the official residence of the British monarch and is used for state occasions, such as state banquets and investitures. It is a symbol of British monarchy and history and remains an important working royal residence plus a significant cultural and historical landmark in the United Kingdom. 

2. Boldt Castle, New York  

Boldt Castle is a historic landmark located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of the St. Lawrence River, near Alexandria Bay in New York. It is a grand and ornate castle that was originally built as a testament of love. It was built in 1900 by a wealthy American hotelier, and owner of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, as a gift for his wife, Louise Boldt, to serve as a summer home. 

It includes the main castle structure, a grand staircase, an Italian garden, a powerhouse, a yacht house, and other structures. It is a popular tourist attraction and is open to the public from May to October, where guests explore the castle’s interior, its gardens, and the surrounding island. 

3. Hearst Castle, California

Proimos, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Officially known as Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, Hearst Castle is a grand and opulent mansion located on the central coast of California, and is known for its remarkable architecture, vast art collections, and its connection to the influential newspaper publisher William Randolph Hearst. 

The castle’s architecture is a blend of various styles, primarily Mediterranean Revival, Spanish Colonial, and Neoclassical elements. The estate is composed of multiple buildings, including the grand main house, three guesthouses, two pools, and extensive gardens.  

It is open to the public and offers a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore different parts of the estate, including the opulent indoor rooms and the beautifully landscaped outdoor areas. 

4. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland 

Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress located on Castle Rock, a volcanic rock formation in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. With elements of medieval, Renaissance, and Victorian designs, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland and serves as a symbol of the country’s heritage.  

The castle has a rich military history, having been involved in various conflicts and sieges over the centuries. Some of the notable features of the castle include the Crown Jewels, the Royal Palace, St. Margaret’s Chapel (the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh), and the Half Moon Battery.  

Since it is in the heart of Edinburgh, one can walk from the city center and explore its buildings and exhibits, including the National War Museum of Scotland, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. 

5. Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

Photo by Satvik on Unsplash

Located in Vienna and hosting one of the oldest zoos in the world, Schönbrunn Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Austria. It is known for its stunning architecture, vast gardens, and rich cultural heritage.  

It was a hunting lodge for the Habsburg dynasty and served as a summer residence for the monarchs before it was transformed into a grand palace in the late 17th century. It became a prominent residence for the monarchs, including Maria Theresa and her son, Emperor Joseph II. Today, Schönbrunn Palace is a popular tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors each year. 

6. Forbidden City, Beijing 

Standing tall as a testament to China’s imperial history, culture, and architectural achievements, The Forbidden City, also known as the Imperial Palace, is a vast palace complex located in the heart of Beijing, China. It is an architectural masterpiece, featuring traditional Chinese design elements and is made up of nearly 1,000 buildings, with close to 9000 rooms. The complex is surrounded by a large defensive wall and a deep moat. 

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site plus a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors from around the world.  

7. Taj Mahal, India

Photo by Jovyn Chamb on Unsplash

Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Taj Mahal is a world-renowned white marble mausoleum located in Agra, India. It is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth in 1631. 

The building is a blend of Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles, with the main mausoleum being made of white marble and adorned with semi-precious stones. 

8. Elmina Castle, Ghana 

Photo by Maxx Sas on Unsplash

Built by the Portuguese in 1482, Elmina Castle, also known as St. George’s Castle, is a historic fortress located in the town of Elmina in Ghana, West Africa. It stands as a reminder of the transatlantic slave trade on the African continent and its people and remains one of the most significant and well-preserved castles on African soil. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. 

Elmina Castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination where guests visit a museum showcasing the history of the slave trade. 

9. Castle of Good Hope, South Africa 

Pierre-Selim Huard, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Also known as Good Hope Castle, this historic fortification is in Cape Town, South Africa, and is one of the oldest surviving colonial-era buildings in that country. It is an architectural gem that served as a base for the Dutch military. Some of its notable features include the Kat Balcony (an ornate balcony overlooking the courtyard), the Dolphin Pool (a large water feature), and the Donker Gat (a notorious dungeon used for imprisoning colonial-era criminals). 

The Castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination that has various museums and exhibits, plus displays related to the history of the Cape. 

10. Prague Castle, Czech Republic

Built in the 9th century, Prague Castle is a castle complex in Prague, Czech Republic, that serves as the office of the president. It overlooks the city and is one of the largest castle complexes in the world. The building has a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.  

Some of the key buildings within the complex include St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, the Lobkowicz Palace, and the picturesque Golden Lane. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country and visitors can explore the historical and architectural wonders of the castle, as well as enjoy panoramic views of the city from the castle’s elevated position. 

11. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Photo by Felix on Unsplash

Located in Schwangau, Germany, and commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most famous and picturesque castles in the world. The 19th-century palace on a rugged hill in the foothills of the Alps is one of the most photographed buildings today and is open to the public. 

Its construction began in 1869 and continued until Ludwig died in 1886 so the castle was never fully completed. Nevertheless, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany, with the region also offering plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, boating, and swimming thanks to the nearby Alpsee and Schwansee lakes. 

12. Hohenschwangau Castle, Germany

Photo by Tim Dennert on Unsplash

Dating back to the 12th century, Hohenschwangau Castle is a picturesque and historic castle that was the home to the Bavarian royal family. It is close to Neuschwanstein Castle and served as the childhood residence of King Ludwig II and his family.  

This castle is in a scenic location with beautiful views of the surrounding Bavarian countryside, including nearby lakes, forests, and mountains, making it a perfect spot for leisurely walks and hiking.  

13. Château de Chambord, France

Photo by Stefan K on Unsplash

Located in France, Château de Chambord is a magnificent and iconic castle that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was constructed by the king of France, Francis I in 1519, but the castle was never fully completed after the King died in 1547. It is a truly unique and magical place that is one of the most iconic landmarks in France. 

The castle’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior. The castle has 440 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and 84 staircases including a double staircase, which is a masterpiece of two spiral staircases that wind around each other without ever meeting. It has been featured in literature, art, and film and continues to attract tourists from around the world.   

14. Rosenborg Castle, Denmark

Located in Copenhagen, Denmark, Rosenborg is an early 17th-century historic castle that houses some of Denmark’s most important cultural treasures. It is open to the public and serves as a museum, allowing visitors to explore the castle’s many treasures and learn about Denmark’s royal heritage.  

The beautiful castle attracts an estimated 2.5 million visitors every year, who explore various rooms and chambers, including the King’s Bedchamber, the Knight’s Hall, the Long Hall, and the beautifully adorned Throne Room. 

15. Osaka Castle, Japan

Luka Peternel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Osaka Castle is a Japanese castle that is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. It is situated in a spacious and beautifully landscaped park known as Osaka Castle Park (Osaka-jo Koen), which has moats, cherry trees, and various historical monuments. It was destroyed and rebuilt twice (in 1615 and 1665) and was a center of political and military power during Japan’s feudal era.  

It has a five-story main keep, which is the central feature of the castle, standing at a height of 42 meters (138 feet) and offers panoramic views of the surrounding city from its observation deck. The castle is not only a popular venue for events and festivals throughout the year but also a popular location for cherry blossom viewing in the spring when the cherry trees bloom, attracting crowds of locals and tourists. It is open to the public and visitors can explore the castle, its museum, and the surrounding park. 

16. Bran Castle, Romania

Bran Castle, also commonly known as Dracula’s Castle, is a historic fortress located in Bran, in Transylvania, Romania. It is in the Carpathian Mountains and is one of the most famous castles in the world. Bran is popular as the fictional character Count Dracula’s (who is based on Vlad the Impaler) dwelling thanks to its imposing Gothic architecture. Its association with the Dracula legend makes it a must-see for guests. 

It was originally built in 1377 as a defensive fortress against invading forces but has since served various purposes, including as a royal residence, a customs post, and a museum. Today, Bran Castle is used as a museum that is open to the public, showcasing art and furniture collected by Queen Marie of Romania, who lived there during the early 20th century. 

17. Himeji Castle, Japan

Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Known for its white walls and black roof, Himeji Castle, also known as the White Egret Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a popular tourist destination in Japan. It was built in the 17th century and is made up of six concentric rings of fortifications, with the main tower in the center.  

The walls are made of white plaster and are decorated with black tiles. The roof is made of black tiles and is supported by wooden beams. It is open to the public for tours, where visitors can climb to the top of the main tower for stunning views of the surrounding area. The castle is also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring. 

18. Predjama Castle, Slovenia

Photo by Till W. on Unsplash

Built within a cave mouth in south-central Slovenia, Predjama Castle is a remarkable and picturesque medieval fortress where knight Erazem lived in the 15th century. The castle is perched high (a strategic position which made it a nearly impregnable fortress) offering a stunning blend of natural and man-made architecture. It is also near Postojna Cave, one of Slovenia’s most popular tourist attractions. 

It is open to the public and offers guided tours, which provide insights into its history, legends, and the engineering marvels that enabled it to survive through the centuries. The castle is also a popular filming location, and it has been featured in several movies and television shows. 

19. Shuri-jô Castle, Japan

663highland, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Another famous Japanese castle is Shuri-jô Castle which was built in the 14th century and served as a palace. It is a large and complex structure that was the administrative and ceremonial center of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which was a distinct and independent kingdom with its own culture, language, and governance. It maintained close ties with China and other neighboring countries. 

Today, Shuri Castle is a popular tourist destination, welcoming visitors from Japan and around the world. The reconstructed buildings house museums and exhibitions that provide insights into Okinawa’s history and culture. The site also hosts various cultural events and performances. 

20. Castello Aragonese, Italy

Castello Aragonese, also known as the Aragonese Castle, is a historic fortress located on the island of Ischia in the Tyrrhenian Sea, off the coast of Naples, Italy. This impressive castle is one of the most iconic landmarks on the island and has a rich history. It is perched on a rocky islet and is connected to the main island of Ischia by a causeway. 

Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction and a cultural site, where guests go to explore the castle’s interior, which houses museums, art galleries, and historical exhibitions. The views from the castle’s towers provide stunning panoramas of the surrounding area and the sea. 

21. Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark

Photo by Jonas Smith on Unsplash

Noted for its towers and turrets, Frederiksborg Castle is a palatial complex in Hillerød, Denmark, that was built as a royal residence for King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway in the early 17th century. It is built in the Dutch Renaissance style and the exterior is decorated with a variety of motifs, including figures of lions, eagles, and cherubs, while the interior has paintings, sculptures, and tapestries. 

The castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Denmark. The castle is open to the public for tours and is a popular destination for weddings and other events. 

22. Vianden Castle, Luxembourg

Vianden Castle is a 10th-century medieval fortress that is in a scenic location along the Our River and is surrounded by lush forests and the rolling hills of the Ardennes in Luxembourg. It is one of the largest, most well-preserved, and impressive castles in Europe, and is a national monument plus landmark. The castle has impressive towers, walls, and battlements.  

It is open to the public and guests can explore the castle’s interior, which has been partially restored. The castle offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. 

23. Krak des Chevaliers, Syria

Photo by JOE Planas on Unsplash

Surrounded by a moat and protected by a series of walls and towers, Krak des Chevaliers is a well-preserved medieval castle located in Syria. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was a powerful fortress. The castle is about 40 kilometers west of the city of Homs and is built in a strategic location that overlooks the surrounding countryside.  

The castle is surrounded by a moat and is protected by a series of walls and towers. It is a popular tourist destination. 

24. Fasil Ghebbi, Ethiopia

Ludger Heide, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Fasil Ghebbi is a complex of walled royal enclosures, palaces, and churches located in Gondar, Ethiopia. It was the residence of the Ethiopian emperors from the 17th to the 19th centuries. Fasil Ghebbi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Ethiopia. 

Fasil Ghebbi is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can tour the complex and learn about its history and culture 

25. Nakhal Fort, Oman

Photo by Bree Evans on Unsplash

Nakhal Fort is a large fort in the Al Batinah Region of Oman that houses a museum that is operated by the Ministry of Tourism with exhibits of historic guns. It offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its top, and if you are lucky you can attend a cultural event, such as a traditional dance performance or festivals that happen there once in a while. 

With impressive walls, towers, and chambers, the fort is a venue for a weekly goat market, which is held every Friday. 

26. Red Fort, India 

Photo by VENUS MAJOR on Unsplash

Also known as Lal Qila, The Red Fort is a massive complex of palaces, mosques, and gardens, that is made of red sandstone and is surrounded by a moat and a high wall. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 11 gates and is one of the most iconic landmarks in India. 

The Red Fort is open to the public throughout the year, and guests attend a Light and Sound Show, which tells the story of the Red Fort, providing a fascinating glimpse into India’s rich history plus India’s struggle for independence. 

27. Matsumoto Castle, Japan

There are many famous castles in Japan. Matsumoto Castle is yet another that’s well-known because it has a distinctive black color, unique architecture, and a picturesque setting. It is designated as a National Treasure of Japan and is surrounded by a wide moat. There is a beautiful wooden bridge leading to the main entrance. The bridge provides a great vantage point for photographs and offers an impressive view of the castle’s reflection in the moat. It is open to the public. 

28. Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

Bojnice Castle is a romantic castle located in Bojnice, Slovakia, and is one of the most visited castles in Slovakia and the world. It is a popular filming location for fantasy and fairy-tale movies, plus is a popular tourist destination that is open to the public.  

The castle is a popular destination for weddings and other events. It is a must-visit for anyone willing to enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside from the castle walls. 

29. Palace of the Grand Master, Rhodes

I, Sailko, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes is a historic fortress and palace located on the Greek island of Rhodes. It is one of the most iconic and well-preserved medieval structures in Europe since the 14th century. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions on the island of Rhodes with a museum that is open to the public. 

The Palace of the Grand Master houses a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, ceramics, mosaics, and various other historical items from different periods. Visitors can explore the palace’s rooms, galleries, and exhibitions. 

30. Alcázar, Spain

Alcázar of Segovia, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

As one of the most famous castles in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Alcázar is a medieval castle located in Segovia in Spain. The castle is surrounded by a moat and a high wall and is built of white limestone with many towers, turrets, and balconies. It is a beautiful and historic castle that is open to the public. 

31. Orava Castle, Slovakia

Photo by Michal Ico on Unsplash

Orava Castle is a medieval castle situated on a high rock above the Orava River in Slovakia. It is one of the most beautiful castles in the world and was built in the 13th century. It was badly damaged during World War II but was later restored. Today, Orava Castle is a popular tourist destination and is open to the public for tours.  

32. Bodiam Castle, England

Photo by Andy Newton on Unsplash

One of the oldest castles in the U.K. is the Bodiam Castle, which is a 14th-century castle located near Robertsbridge in East Sussex, England. It is a quadrangular castle, with a central courtyard and buildings against the curtain wall. Its corners and entrance are marked by towers and topped by crenellations.

With a unique moat that is filled with water and crossed by a drawbridge. The castle is open to the public and guests get to see the grounds, gardens, and gift shop where one can purchase souvenirs. The castle hosts concerts, festivals, and other events occasionally. 

33. Pena Palace, Portugal 

Photo by Mark Lawson on Unsplash

The Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena) is a colorful, famous, and iconic castle in Portugal. It is a landmark that is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. The palace is situated on a hill in the Sintra Mountains and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the nearby town of Sintra. It is open to the public and on a clear day, it can be easily seen from Lisbon. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful gardens, fountains, and sculptures. 

34. Bodrum Castle, Turkey

Bodrum Castle also known as the Castle of St. Peter or Petronium, is a historical fortification located in southwest Turkey in the port city of Bodrum. It is built on a small rocky peninsula set between two sheltered harbors in that area. The castle is a rectangular structure with four towers namely the English Tower, the French Tower, the German Tower, and the Italian Tower, all nations that contributed to its construction.  

The castle was originally built to protect the Knights of St John from attack, but it has also been used as a prison and a military base. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions, hosting the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archaeology inside its walls. 

35. Schwerin Castle, Germany

Located in northern Germany, Schwerin Castle or Palace is a historic building that is known for its stunning architecture and picturesque setting on an island in Schwerin Lake. The palace is surrounded by extensive gardens, making it a popular destination for visitors interested in both history and natural beauty. 

Today, there is a state parliament that sits there plus the government uses some parts of the palace for its administrative purposes, but many areas are open to the public. 

36. Amber Fort, India  

Amber Fort, or Amer Fort located in Rajasthan, India, is one of the most popular tourist attractions known for its stunning architecture and beautiful location. It is perched on a hill, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Maota Lake, and visitors can take an elephant ride up to the fort from the entrance gate.  

The elephant ride is a great way to experience the fort’s surroundings and to get a closer look at the fort’s walls and towers. Inside, you will find a beautiful mirror palace that is decorated with thousands of mirrors. 

37. Tower of London, England

The Tower of London is a historic castle located on the north bank of the River Thames in central London, England. It lies within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and was once used as a royal palace, a prison, and an execution site where many people were executed.  

The Tower of London is a complex of 13 towers and buildings, each with its unique history. The most famous tower is the White Tower, which was built by William the Conqueror and is the oldest part of the castle. It is now a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

38. Dunrobin Castle, Scotland

Dunrobin Castle is a stately home in Sutherland, in the Highland area of Scotland, and is the most northerly of Scotland’s great houses and the largest in the Northern Highlands with 189 rooms. It is also one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited houses dating back to the early 1300s. 

Known as the most fairytale castle in Scotland, this castle is known not only for its fairytale-like appearance, but also for its lush gardens, and its collection of art and artifacts. It is open to the public for tours 

39. Blarney Castle, Ireland

Said to give the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it, the Blarney Castle is a historic castle located near the village of Blarney in County Cork, Ireland. It is a popular tourist attraction that guests go to not only to kiss the Blarney Stone but also visit other attractions like the Rock Close (a garden area with picturesque paths, natural rock formations, and tranquil spots), Poison Garden, the Fairy Garden, the arboretum, and the dungeon. 

The castle often hosts events and activities, including traditional Irish music performances, seasonal festivals, and craft fairs. 

40. Alnwick Castle, England

Photo by Swati Kedia on Unsplash

Commonly known as a location for the filming of Harry Potter films, Alnwick Castle is a historic castle located in Northumberland, England. It is one of the largest inhabited castles in the country and has a rich history. Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, which includes grand state rooms, a library, and a collection of art and historical artifacts.  

The castle also offers various activities, including archery, guided tours, and medieval reenactments. Its appearance and grounds closely resemble the fictional Hogwarts and was used as the setting for parts of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, including scenes involving broomstick flying lessons. The castle and its surrounding estate offer a range of attractions and activities for visitors. 

41. Blenheim Palace, England   

Blenheim Palace is a historic stately home located in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, England. It is renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blenheim Palace is not only a significant historical site but also the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, the former British Prime Minister. 

It is open to the public and hosts a range of events, including concerts, food festivals, and holiday-themed activities. The palace is also a popular venue for weddings and private events. 

42. Kalmar Castle, Sweden 

Kalmar Castle is a 13th-century castle located in Kalmar, Sweden. It is one of the best-preserved castles in Scandinavia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle is surrounded by a moat and a well-maintained park. 

Today, Kalmar Castle is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the castle and learn about its history. The castle also hosts events and visitors can explore the castle’s interior, including the Great Hall and the impressive circular keep, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. 

43. Cochem Castle, Germany

Photo by Kai Pilger on Unsplash

Cochem Castle, known as Reichsburg Cochem in German, is a historic castle perched on a hill overlooking the town of Cochem along the Moselle River in Germany. It is one of the most picturesque and iconic castles in the region and is known for its fairytale-like appearance and rich history.  

The castle is open to the public, and guided tours are available, allowing visitors to explore its interior, including the various rooms, chambers, and the Knights’ Hall. 

44. Conwy Castle, Wales

Also known as Conway Castle, Conwy Castle is a 13th-century magnificent medieval fortress located in the town of Conwy, in North Wales. It is considered one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in the United Kingdom and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the castle, guests experience scenic views of the town and the surroundings.

45. Tokyo Imperial Palace, Japan 

The Tokyo Imperial Palace is the main residence of the Emperor of Japan. It is located in the center of Tokyo and the inner palace grounds are not accessible to the public.

However, visitors can explore the East Gardens and the surrounding areas, plus guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the palace’s history. People take a walk through the Outer Gardens and enjoy the scenery while attending a parade or other event at the palace. 

46. Baba Vida, Bulgaria 

Baba Vida is a medieval fortress located in the town of Vidin, in the northwestern part of Bulgaria. It is one of the country’s most well-preserved and historically significant fortresses and is today a popular tourist attraction. It was strategically located on the banks of the Danube River, which made it an important stronghold for controlling trade routes along the river and protecting against invasions. 

47. Château de Gisors, France 

Pierre Poschadel, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Château de Gisors, also known as Gisors Castle, is a medieval fortress located in the town of Gisors in the Normandy region of northern France. The castle has a rich history, with its roots dating back to the 11th century, and it has played a significant role in various historical events, including conflicts during the Middle Ages. 

48. São Jorge Castle, Lisbon 

Simon Burchell, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

São Jorge Castle, also known as Castelo de São Jorge, is a historic fortress and prominent landmark located on a hill in the historic center of Lisbon, Portugal. The castle overlooks the city and the Tagus River and has a history dating back to ancient times.

Visitors can explore the castle’s interior, the gardens and grounds that offer opportunities for strolls, plus the archaeological sites to learn the history of the castle and the city. 

49. Raseborg Castle, Finland 

Pöllö, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Raseborg Castle is a medieval castle in Finland, that was built in the 1370s as a stronghold on the western coast. The castle was later expanded and fortified, and it became an important administrative and military center for Sweden. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction.

50. Château de Vincennes, France

Château de Vincennes, also known as Vincennes Castle, is a historic fortress located in the eastern suburbs of Paris, France. The castle is located within the expansive Bois de Vincennes, a large public park, that provides opportunities for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. 


Those are the top 50 most famous castles in the world. They are remarkably beautiful each with its unique story. Whether you’re a history buff, a romantic, or simply a lover of beautiful architecture and landscapes, the world’s famous castles offer a rich and enchanting opportunity to explore and wonder. So start planning your next vacation and experience the magic of castles for yourself!

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