The 7 Most Beautiful Castles in Europe to Visit this Winter

Europe: the place where food, sun and beaches aplenty keep tourists flocking there time and time again. However, let's not forget to mention Europe's rich history, spanning several millennia, which makes it a hotspot for castles. From stunning grand palaces to ancient ruined fortresses, Europe's castles tell a fascinating tale of the past. 

The best thing about most of Europe's castles is that they can all be enjoyed come rain or shine. Bask in the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of the castle gardens in the summer, or explore the opulent stone interiors in the winter. Let's discover 7 of the most beautiful castles to explore in Europe.

7. Alcazar of Segovia, Spain

Appearing as a picturesque fairytale castle on the outside, Alcazar of Segovia's history is much less idealistic. This beautiful castle, which juts out of a jagged cliff in Spain's Segovia region, is one of the country's (and history's) most famous strongholds. Nowadays, it is a popular museum that holds military, religious and royal artefacts. 

Its interior is tasteful and opulent, characterised by golds and reds that reflect its splendour perfectly. If you want to visit, entry costs approximately €10 and gives you access to the entire grounds. What's more, in winter, the landscape surrounding the castle becomes a winter wonderland, helping it to feel even more magical. 

6. Bran Castle, Romania

Thought to have inspired the castle in Bram Stoker's Dracula, this gem of the Carpathian Mountains has earned the name 'Dracula's Castle.' However, this name is really just a marketing tactic, as the fictional vampire's home is just that— fictional. The legends and folklore that surround this castle are based on Bram's description of the home of the world's most infamous bloodsucker, which resembles the outside of Bran Castle. And thus, you have the perfect tourist attraction and the epicentre of one of the world's most iconic horror stories. 

Aside from its literary and legendary connections, it's the exterior of the castle that we're focusing on. Isolated high up in the Carpathian Mountains, accessing this castle is somewhat of a task. Head to Bran Village and ascend the steep path, and you're there. Once inside, you're met with rooms of historic artefacts, Vlad the Impaler memorabilia and a furniture museum. With such a legendary reputation, it's hard to miss this literary icon.  

5. Trakai Castle, Lithuania

Trakai Castle is one of the more unique-looking castles, with a striking red-brick exterior and triangular roofs. Once home to the Grand Duke of Lithuania, the castle is now a museum that depicts significant events in Lithuania's history. Its unconventional design makes it appealing to everyone who may want to take a closer look inside. Inside, you'll find artefacts and a design that is reflective of its 14th-century roots. 

With the castle being located on a secluded island in Lake Galve, it is steeped in intrigue and mystery. The castle is accessible by a long footbridge from the mainland, and entry costs around €12. In winter, Lake Galve freezes, creating a natural wintry paradise with the snow-dusted castle as the backdrop. Come rain or shine, the castle's beauty and cultural significance are undeniable. 

4. Chateau de Chambord, France 

The magnificent Chateau de Chambord in France puts all the other castles on this list to shame. This 16th-century Renaissance-style castle in Chambord was designed to be a temporary home for Francis I, who used it as a base for his hunting trips. Nowadays, the lavish interior is mostly unfurnished and serves as an opulent relic of the Renaissance period. 

And, its double helix staircase, thought to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci, is an area of interest for most tourists who visit. Its UNESCO World Heritage status is a symbol of its significance throughout history. In winter, its grounds become frosted and sometimes snowy, and the castle plays host to a range of Christmas events and festivities. 

3. Lacko Castle, Sweden

Considered to be the most beautiful castle in Sweden, Lacko Castle is a wondrous sight all year round. In its almost millennia of history, the castle has had many uses, from being a fortress to a noble residence. But nowadays, the castle exists as a relic, with historic exhibits and 18th-century decor. Immerse yourself in Baroque-style splendour with a visit, which costs around 100-150 SEK. 

Each room tells an opulent tale of the castle's 700-year past, with four-poster beds, intricate paintings adorning the walls and ceiling, and ornate gold and wood carvings. While the castle is open all year round, we'd recommend visiting in the winter months. Simply, because when its grounds become a snowy landscape, that adds a touch more magic. 

2. Ashford Castle, Ireland

One of Ireland's most prized possessions, Ashford Castle's cultural significance is unmatched. Having been built in the 13th century, it was once a fortress before being turned into a grand residence. The castle has since evolved into the luxurious edifice it is known as today. As a hotel, you can live out your opulent dreams, with signature golds and reds adding a regal touch, and the exterior having a Baronial-Victorian style. 

With excellent dining and luxury down every corridor, it really is reminiscent of its high-class past. Plus, in winter, the castle comes alive with Christmas celebrations and a vibrant festive atmosphere. 

1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Now we come to the most fairytale-like castle of them all, and the youngest castle on our list, built in 1869. It doesn’t have medieval or Renaissance architecture, but that doesn’t matter. Instead, what greets you inside is a grand affair indeed – picture all the hallmarks of an opulent royal residence, from intricate carvings to twinkling chandeliers and archways adorned with paintings. 

One of Germany’s most prized possessions, this castle can be accessed for around €20 and enjoyed via a guided tour. If there’s one castle you visit this winter, it has to be this one. Live out your fairytale dreams at this castle that was supposedly the inspiration behind several of Disney’s castle designs.