As recently as 140 years ago, castles were still the ultimate status symbol. There’s an undeniable air of whimsy at any castle, a magnetic pull of intrigue: What did it really mean to be royalty? Today, strolling through these relics of prestige, the daydreams and fantasies they evoke seem inescapable. Your kids will no doubt let their imaginations run wild on knights, princesses and dragons. The following four UNESCO-recognized fortresses make for a truly rich and rewarding day trip — and the perfect excuse for the kids to learn some European history! — the next time your family is exploring Europe.
Palacio da Pena
Palacio da Pena, Portugal
Perhaps the most whimsical castle in all of Europe, the Palacio da Pena is a patchwork of renovations and colors through the ages, combining into a Wonka-esque fortification. Originally a 15th-century monastery, the estate got a major overhaul in the 1800s from King Ferdinand II, updating the fortifications with German medieval, Oriental, Portuguese Manueline and other Romantic-style architecture (plus, eye-popping colors). Surrounding the castle itself are otherworldly regal grounds: Nearly 500 acres of enchanting forest — overflowing with cypress, magnolia, western cedarwoods and countless ferns — create a true fairytale feeling. The interiors match the vibe: intricately carved ceilings and walls adorn Queen Amelia’s apartments, the reception room is a breathtaking all white and the combination Great Hall/Billiards Room houses a 72-candle chandelier and Ferdinand’s immense collection of Japanese and Chinese porcelain. A stroll through this castle — both inside and out — makes for a magical day.
Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
As the source of inspiration for Disney’s ever-iconic Cinderella Castle, Neuschwanstein Castle has an undeniable fairytale quality. Set atop a forest-covered hill in the Bavarian countryside on the very edge of the Alps, the castle is a masterpiece of 19th-century Romanesque Revival architecture, with the works of the composer Richard Wagner serving as the muse. While the exterior is enchanting, only 14 of the 65 rooms were finished and furnished. A tour of these ornate interiors (the king’s bedroom, the Singer’s Hall and the cave-like grotto) ultimately takes second place to the pleasant hike up to the castle itself.
This castle has a bit of fascinating history. It was commissioned by “the Fairytale King” Ludwig II, on the heels of losing the Austro-Prussian War, which forced Bavaria to accept an alliance with the new empire. Despite the issues affecting his country, the Mad King seemed singularly focused on building the most beautiful castles. This pet project of gaudy opulence ultimately bankrupted him; his parliament then had him deposed, arrested and declared insane in quick succession. With the context of history, this castle isn’t just the postcard example of fairytale architecture, but a parable on where the power to rule ultimately derives from.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Perched atop Castle Rock, overlooking all of Edinburgh, it’s not hyperbole to say Edinburgh Castle is the heart of the city. It’s been an ancient stronghold, a royal residence and a military garrison through the last 3,000 years. It’s far less flashy than some of the other castles on this list, but despite its appearance, there’s still plenty to see. History runs deep here: humans have occupied this hill since the Iron Age; royalty since the reign of Malcom III in the 11th century.
This is the most besieged castle in all of Europe — still standing with over 20 attempts on it. The Great Hall was the wonder of medieval Scotland, and today it houses a cornucopia of military armor and weapons underneath its impressive beams. St. Margaret’s Chapel is Edinburgh’s oldest building, named in honor of Queen Margaret who died there in 1093 (and was then later canonized). Trace the footsteps of bygone royalty in the Royal Palace and observe their priceless treasures with the Honours of Scotland, on display in the Crown Room. Mons Meg is arguably the most impressive medieval cannon in existence; you must see it to believe it. All these highlights and points of interest are simply second fiddle to the castle itself, and its view. Staring out its ramparts over greater Edinburgh, it’s easy to see how the city grew from this one spot. It’s easy to understand how for one corner of European history, this what it meant to be on top of the world.
Chateau of Versailles
Chateau of Versailles, France
The Palace of Versailles was once a hunting lodge, and through nearly two centuries of renovations and expansions went on to become the seat of the throne and capital of France (for a time). Its place in international memory is firmly affixed to the French Revolution: It was here that Louis XVI and his wife Marie Antoinette — of rumored “let them eat cake” infamy — were all but overthrown by a crowd of thousands furious over the high price and scarcity of bread. The palace changed hands a few more times (Napolean, Louis XVIII, Louis-Phillippe, etc., etc.) before ultimately becoming a museum, dedicated to the glories of France.
Strolling through its gilded halls, it’s hard for your jaw not to drop. The collections span from the Middle Ages to the late 19th century — some 60,000 priceless works of art adorn these walls and dot the garden, much of which is a painstaking recreation of how the palace would’ve been when Versailles was stormed in 1789. You can trace France’s military victories through its many frescos; you can trace the ire of the starving masses through the gold trim. The can’t-miss attraction is the Hall of Mirrors; 17 windows shining on 578 mirrors infuse the room with ethereal light, prompting the crystal chandeliers & marble to seemingly glow. It makes for a priceless souvenir photo.
