Holy cliff-hanger, Batman! Climb to dizzying heights and live life on the edge here in these incredible places. Without further ado, here are the most stunning clifftop towns in the world.

The Most Stunning Clifftop Towns In The World

1.  Avalon, USA

Avalon is a city situated on Santa Catalina Island, in the California Channel Islands. It is southeast of Channel island. Here, homes cling to a rather steep hillside that wraps ‘round the harbor. No normal motor vehicles are permitted on the steep street here, so many residents ride in mini-golf carts. Some of the highlights here include hiking trails, sunny beaches, and oceanside bars.

2.  Gordes, France

This commune is reportedly built into the rock face in the Monts de Vaucluse range. It is perhaps one of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region’s prettiest hilltop towns. It comes complete with pastel-colored, terracotta-roofed residences, and narrow streets that snake their way up to a majestic medieval castle. The views of the Luberon massif and rolling fields below are quite memorable. Don’t miss the weekly market.

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3.  Taormina, Italy

This Sicilian seaside town appears precariously perched high up above the shining Ionian Sea. It’s backdropped by massive Mount Etna. Here you can stroll steep medieval streets to pretty piazzas to take in wonderful views of the volcano and sea. Stop by the awesome ancient Greek theater carved out of the local hillside, and the historic ruins of the interesting 15th-century Saracen castle too.

4.  Monemvasia, Greece

You will find this fairy-tale-like town and medieval rock fortress off a causeway of the Peloponnese. Nicknamed “the Gibraltar of Greece,” the natural, rugged rock fortress here has been someone’s home since the 500s. Historically, this place has been under both Byzantine and Venetian rule. At present, there are an unusual number of different monasteries and churches to see. 

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5.  Positano, Italy

The nigh-iconic village of Positano on the attractive Amalfi coastline appears to have almost tumbled neatly down the precipitous hillside. This colorful cliffside community was founded back in the 9th century. It has witnessed some tumultuous times, such as pirate attacks and a terrible tsunami in the 14th century. Today it is a rather elegant resort complete with steep, automobile-free streets, and sometimes pricey boutiques, art galleries, and assorted eateries.

6.  Azenhas do Mar, Portugal

Not far from the town of Sintra, is the seaside village of Azenhas do Mar. Balanced on a cliff above the Atlantic Ocean, it was once the home of several sea-powered water mills. Currently, it’s a quaint coastal escape complete with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. Be sure to see the sandy coves and numerous natural rock pools. Sample the local fresh seafood too.

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7.  Port Isaac, England

A traditional fishing village, picturesque Port Isaac, is situated on Cornwall’s craggy cliffs. Here you will see a hillside sturdily stacked with whitewashed cottages and narrow streets and small boats in the harbor. Be sure to sample the fresh fish, lobster, and crab still hauled into shore today. Viewers of the TV shows “Doc Martin” and “Poldark” will undoubtedly recognize the place.

8.  Ronda, Spain

The Moorish mountaintop village of Ronda is located in the city of Málaga, in Andalusia. It is a white village, or pueblos blancos, ensconced over the El Tajo gorge. How’d you like to cross the Puente Nuevo bridge straddling the deep chasm? It dates back to the 1700s. Visit the Cuenca Gardens then dine on a restaurant terrace overlooking the 120-meter-deep ravine below you.

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9.  Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, France

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a medieval village high atop a limestone cliff roughly 91 meters above the rushing River Lot. The village’s flower-filled squares, long and winding alleys, and higgledy-piggledy houses, some erected back in the 1200s, make it quite charming. Visit the medieval castle ruins. From there you can see the locks, mills, and towpath too. It’s a great place for hikers and bikers.

10.  Constantine, Algeria

You’ll discover gravity-defying Constantine on the rugged cliffs above the mighty Rhumel river. Named after Constantine the Great it’s known to many as “the City of Bridges”, it has four bridges across the gorge. Some travel writers say that the Sidi M’Cid suspension bridge is the most famous.

Opened in 1912, It’s the world’s highest suspension bridge. The rugged plateau serves as a natural fortress. First occupied during Neolithic times, it was once a well-known Roman settlement. 

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11.  Monsanto, Portugal

The ancient, one-of-a-kind Portuguese village of Monsanto was erected around and even into a granite boulder-filled hillside found in the striking Beira province. If you visit some of the homes here, you will discover that they are situated underneath, on top, and even between the huge rocks. In some cases, the boulders serve as floors, walls, and even ceilings, and cobbled alleys wind between them.

12.  Haid Al-Jazil, Yemen

Suspended high over the desolate, remote Wadi Dawan in well-known Yemen’s Desert Valley, atop a giant boulder is the little village of Haid Al-Jazil. The buildings here are constructed out of mud bricks and some are 11 stories high. Some of them are more than 500 years old so they require regular maintenance. When it rains, the resident farmers move their goats to the valley to graze. 

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13.  Sant’Agata de’ Goti, Italy

This ages-old town is located above the mighty Martorano River in the Campania region. Founded by the ancient Samnites, one side of the village is bordered by the gorgeous gorge’s impregnable walls. It was also settled by the Goths and the Romans. Currently, the traditional town is home to old churches, a Norman castle, and shops where you can buy local wines, olive oil, and apples.

14.  Guoliang Village, China

This remote, little village clings to a cliff found in the magnificent Taihang Mountains in Henan Province. With just a few hundred residents, no one questioned that you could only get there by walking up 720 steps carved into the face of the rock. It wasn’t until 1972 that 13 locals chiseled a 1.6-kilometer tunnel through the rock and created a road to the village.

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15.  Fira, Greece

Fira is the capital of the Greek isle of Santorini. This chi-chi town is fairly famous for its blue-domed churches and pristine whitewashed homes that seemingly tumble down the cliffs circling the blue water of the volcanic crater. Stay in one of the hotels carved into the rock. Stroll along the clifftop footpath to neighboring Oia and see the sunset over the Aegean.

16.  Jezzine, Lebanon

Also called “the City of Falls”, Jezzine is nicknamed after the waterfalls which drop down the cliff into the valley below. This town sits atop a huge rough outcropping 40 meters above the well-known Wadi Jezzine. Highlights of this place include historic churches and manses, a bustling bazaar, and a noteworthy rest stop for hikers along the popular Lebanon Mountain Trail.

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17.  Leh, India

Leh is the capital of Ladakh. It is also one of the world’s “highest permanently inhabited towns.” Leh’s Old Town is crowned by a royal palace and overlooked by a steep rugged ridge. The palace was constructed during the 1500s. It is nine stories tall and its roof provides visitors with noteworthy views of the local buildings, the snow-sprinkled Himalayas, and more.

18.  Cuenca, Spain

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Cuenca is in Castile La Mancha. The Moors built this place in the 1100s. It is found high over the great gorges of the Júcar and Huécar rivers. Every year thousands of travelers come to this place to check out the Casas Colgadas, or Hanging Houses, precariously positioned over the cliffs here.

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19.  Rocamadour, France

The buildings here in Rocamadour, seem to be hanging onto the large limestone cliff that towers 457 meters above the stunning Alzou River canyon. There are old stone gateways at the foot of this little village where pilgrims and visitors begin their ascent up the 216-step Grand Staircase to a small square. This town is the home of the Sanctuary of the Black Virgin.

20.  Vieste, Italy

Vieste is nestled in Puglia. Indeed, Vieste is but one of the scenic settlements on the gorgeous Gargano Peninsula. It was built right on a limestone cliff that overlooks the Adriatic Sea. It is highlighted by an interesting medieval old town complete with whitewashed houses and little lanes. This clifftop town is bordered by some of the area’s most beautiful beaches too.

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21.  Castellfollit de la Roca, Spain

Castellfollit de la Roca rests upon a basalt crag over the river Fluvià. It is a medieval network of small squares and cobblestone streets in the often-ignored La Garrotxa area of Catalonia. One of its biggest attractions is the 13th-century church of Sant Salvador. The view from here is incredible. Its wild, volcanic landscape also makes it a fun place to go hiking.

22.  Petrovac, Montenegro

Flanked by pine trees and olive groves, this clifftop town by the sea is best known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water. Visit the Venetian citadel, the Castello Fortress, set on a cliff at the promenade’s northern end. Originally erected in the 1500s to ward off numerous pirates, today it provides visitors with stunning views across the sparkling bay.

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23.  Staithes, England

This little fishing village is located on the North Yorkshire coast ‘tween towering cliffs. This marvelous maze of old fisherman cottages and steep walkways is rich in torrid tales of smuggling and assorted seafaring. Captain Cook once worked in this famous fishing port. Explore the traditional fish and chip shops and traditional pubs, and go rock pooling on the beach too.

24.  Tenby, Wales

This is one of Pembrokeshire’s prettiest places, towering over the cliffs. This historic town was once a Norman settlement and a famous bathing spot during the Georgian era. Stroll along the promenade past the colorful Regency townhouses. Other highlights here include the castle and fort, and the harbor. Don’t miss the cliff-backed Castle Beach either.

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25.  Pazin, Croatia

This town is the capital of the Istria region. Visit Pazin’s popular cliff-perched castle. It’s the area’s biggest medieval fortress and now houses two museums including the intriguing Istrian Ethnographic Museum. Explore the caves and subterranean passages here or go zip-lining over the awesome abyss created by the rushing Pazinčica River.

26.  Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

This is one of the country’s oldest towns. The town was constructed across a trio of rocky, rugged hills high above the Yantra River. Here you will find cobblestone streets and attractive, old architecture. Be sure to hop on the cable car and go visit the stone-walled medieval Tsarevets Fortress on Trapezitsa Hill too.

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27.  Manarola, Italy

Manarola is but one of the five vertiginous villages of Liguria’s scintillating Cinque Terra. Here the pretty pastel homes are surrounded by attractive terraced vineyards. Hike the hills here, stroll along the harbor, and go swimming or even sailing in the coves. Check out the view from the popular Punta Bonfiglio as well.

28.  Alcalá del Júcar, Spain

This is but one of the vertiginous villages found in the province of Albacete. It was carved from the deep limestone cliffs of the gorge and includes many different underground tunnels to be explored. The main attraction is the famous 15th-century castle. It comes complete with an Instagramble bridge that has its roots in Roman times.

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29.  Pitigliano, Italy

Pitigliano, in Tuscany, seems to rise from a volcanic tufa ridge between Rome and Florence. People have lived here since the famed Bronze Age. An experienced eye will note the evidence of the town’s Roman and Etruscan past, as well as several different medieval structures. It also includes a Jewish community harking back to the 1300s complete with ancient baths and synagogue. There are also lots of caves and old underground tunnels here.

30.  Bonifacio, Corsica

Bonifacio is the oldest town in all of Corsica. Since approximately AD 830 it has been perched on the isle’s rough limestone cliffs. The homes here appear to be dangerously dangling over the sea as the water has been eroding the cliff base over the years. See the fortified old town, the pretty port, and–if you’re stout of heart–attempt to climb the steep 187-step Staircase of King Aragon Alfonso V which was carved into the cliff so long ago.

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When people think of fairytale castles, they tend to think of Europe. Nevertheless, the US has chateaus, mansions, and even a palace or two of its own. Thus, without further ado, we present the most beautiful castles in the USA.

Beautiful Castles in the US

1.  Hearst Castle, California

Situated on a hill overlooking San Simeon, construction on Hearst Castle began in 1919 and ended in 1947. It was designed by architect Julia Morgan for newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. The 127-acre property includes four separate buildings and terraced gardens. The guesthouse offers visitors panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

The main building of Hearst Castle includes a gothic study that is highlighted by a noteworthy vaulted Spanish ceiling that goes back to the 1400s.

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 The Biltmore Estate, North Carolina

Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville, this place required six years to build. It began in 1889 after George Vanderbilt fell in love with the area while visiting. He hired architect Richard Morris Hunt to design this 250-room French Renaissance chateau which includes a bowling alley and a banquet hall. He also hired landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted to handle the grounds. It features a 15-acre Azalea Garden and its own vineyard and winery.

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Boldt Castle, New York

This is a Rhineland-influenced castle nestled on a small island in the Thousand Islands region. George C. Boldt, a hotel magnate, began building the place in 1900. He halted construction when his wife passed away just months prior to the castle’s completion. 70+ years later, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took ownership of the property and made it what it is today. It features the famous 120-room castle (with drawbridge), and the attractive Alster Tower. 

The Breakers, Rhode Island

The Breakers is nestled in Newport. It was designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt and built in 1895 for the Vanderbilt family. At the time, the coastal town was a playground for the rich and famous.

The building’s ornate design was actually inspired by Italian Renaissance palaces from the 1500s. The 70-room manse is highlighted by a great grand dining room, complete with gilded cornice and freestanding columns. You can visit this mansion all year round.

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Bishop’s Palace, Texas

You will find beautiful Bishop’s Place, a.k.a. Gresham’s House, in the East End Historic District in Galveston. It was constructed in the late 1800s for lawyer and businessman Colonel Walter Gresham. Architectural historians say it’s one of the country’s “most significant structures.” It was designed by local architect Nicholas Clayton.

This chateau-like manse was made of stone and steel. Its interior features include decorative wood carvings, stained glass windows, and a magnificent mahogany stairwell.

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Bannerman Castle, New York

This castle is roughly 60 miles up the well-known Hudson River from the Big Apple. It was built by Scottish-American munitions merchant Francis Bannerman in the early 1900s. It was designed to be an arsenal and to look like an olden medieval Scottish fortress.

When Bannerman died in 1918, the place began to fall apart. In 1969 much of it was destroyed by a ferocious fire. It is now managed by the Bannerman Castle Trust.

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Castello di Amorosa, California

Castello di Amorosa is in Napa Valley. It has the appearance of a Tuscany castle from the 1200s, but it was not officially opened until 2007. It took 14 years to build and was designed by the owner, fourth-generation winemaker Dario Sattui. Today this 107-room building is a winery where they produce award-winning wines. It features a dungeon, a drawbridge, a torture chamber, and a great hall complete with replica Italian frescoes.

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Fonthill Castle, Pennsylvania

Once the residence of archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer, the famous Fonthill Castle was built between 1908 and 1912. Located in Doylestown, this home was meant to showcase Mercer’s collection of prints and tiles. Designed by Mercer, this castle is actually an eclectic assortment of architectural styles including Byzantine, gothic, and medieval. It includes 18 fireplaces, 44 rooms, and over 200 windows. Today it’s a museum. You’ll also find the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works on the grounds too.

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Iolani Palace, Hawaii

The Iolani Palace, the residence of the last Hawaiian royalty, was constructed by King Kalakaua in Honolulu in 1882. It was reportedly meant to increase the “Kingdom of Hawaii’s prestige” as a contemporary country overseas. It is the sole royal home in the entire USA.

The monarchy’s reign ended in 1893. Iolani Palace went on to become the official capitol building. In 1978 it became a museum. The palace remains the only example of American Florentine architecture.

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The Lyndhurst Mansion, New York

Nestled along the Hudson River in Tarrytown, was designed by architect Alexander Jackson Davis. He built this gothic revival manse in 1838. Experts note it’s one of America’s “finest castles” and has been the home of a few celebrities including railroad tycoon Jay Gould and former New York City mayor William Paulding. Be sure to see the art gallery which features such significant work as famous French artist William Bouguereau’s 1866 artwork First Caresses.

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Thornewood Castle, Washington

Constructed more than 100 years ago, this castle–found on American Lake in Lakewood–is actually a lot older. It’s a 400-year-old English manor that banker and developer Chester Thorne had dismantled, shipped, and rebuilt with the aid of architect Kirtland Kelsey Cutter. Today the estate is an inn that offers travelers the use of the property’s private dock and lovely lakeside beach. Be sure to see the sunken “secret garden” designed by the well-known Olmsted Brothers.

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Hammond Castle, Massachusetts

Inspired by his love for English castles, inventor John Hays Hammond Jr. began construction on Hammond Castle in 1926. It was finished in 1929 and was meant to be both his residence and laboratory. It was made of local stone and numerous medieval, Renaissance, and Roman artifacts from Hammond’s travels. The castle overlooks Gloucester Harbor and is currently a museum. Be sure to see the inner courtyard too which consists partly of medieval storefronts Hammond found in France.

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Numerous beautiful relics of the Middle Ages have survived down through the centuries.  One example is the easily recognized medieval strongholds.  So without further adieu, here are the 25 most beautiful medieval castles on earth.

1. Eltz Castle, Germany

Eltz Castle is located in the municipality of Wierschem.  Located in the thickly-forested Elzbach Valley in Rhineland-Palatinate, it has a mysterious air to it.  It’s one of the only castles on the Rhine River that has never been destroyed.  This castle in the Moselle wine region has belonged to the same family since the 1100s.  Historians confirm that this is actually very rare in Europe.   It is becoming steadily more and more popular on Instagram.  

2. Eilean Donan, Scotland

Thanks to its appearance in the 1986 motion picture Highlander, Eilean Donan is arguably one of the most famous medieval castles on the planet.  It is one of the “must-see” attractions when visiting Scotland’s popular Western Highlands.  This castle is situated on an isle between a trio of sea lochs–Loch Alsh, Loch Duich, and Loch Long.  Erected in the 1200s, this was once the Clan Mackenzie’s stronghold.  The original was destroyed in the 1700s and rebuilt in the 1900s.

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3. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Most medieval castles were strategically located.  Therefore it should be no surprise that Edinburgh Castle is perched high atop famous Castle Rock, overlooking Scotland’s capital.  They wanted to be able to see the enemy and still be situated someplace hard to reach.  The Scottish Wars of Independence caused the castle’s ownership to change a few times but today Edinburgh Castle is one of the “must-see” attractions for anyone visiting the area.  Guided tours are available.

4.  Bran Castle, Romania

Romania is the home of several storybook castles.  Bran castle is situated on the site of a former stronghold for  Teutonic Knights dating back to the 1200s.  The castle itself can only be traced back to 1377.  

It stands roughly 2500 feet above sea level and is surrounded by trees.  It is perhaps most famous for its connection to the novel Dracula.  Bram Stoker’s book was inspired by Bran Castle who used it as Dracula’s mysterious manse.   

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5. Kilkenny Castle, Ireland

Kilkenny Castle is said to be a true Anglo-Norman stone castle.  It began as little more than a wooden fort in the 1100s. Since then it has gone through many changes revealed by its blend of architectural styles including Gothic Revival.  The castle has a historically significant location at a spot strategic to controlling the River Nore’s crossing.  Today the castle is now surrounded by manicured lawns and impressive, gorgeous gardens.  Tours of the castle are available. 

6. Mont-Saint-Michel, France

The Mont-Saint-Michel structure is nestled on the rather picturesque island community of Normandy.  While it is technically not an actual castle, it is nonetheless memorable.  Erected for defensive purposes, it features massive outer walls and is surrounded by water too.  It was once the medieval Saint Michel’s monastery,  It weathered a hundred tempestuous years and today is an official UNESCO World Heritage Site.  See the turquoise spire and the statue of Saint Michel that make this fortress special.

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7. Windsor Castle, England

One of Europe’s most famous medieval castles, Windsor Castle is steeped in traditional 11th-century charm.  This is the longest-occupied palace on the entire continent.  The castle complex is surprisingly large.  It is ensconced amidst 13 acres of land and includes a palace, a fortification, and even a small town.  The Castle also includes interiors that were designed in the traditional Georgian architectural style.  It’s not only a big tourist attraction but also Queen Elizabeth II’’s weekend abode.

8. Castel del Monte, Italy

The unique Castel del Monte is a stand out structure located high on a rocky peak in one of Southern Italy’s secluded forests.  This citadel from the 1200s is found in the Apulia region.  It was constructed under the orders of Emperor Frederick II.  Since its initial construction, the building has gone through no significant structural changes.  The austere octagon fortress-like façade includes architectural elements of north European Cistercian Gothic, Islamic Orient, and classic antiquity.  

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9. Alhambra, Spain

Alhambra is a complex located in Andalusia.  It includes a palace and fortress constructed in the 1200s.  Alhambra was commissioned by none other than Nasrid emir Mohammed ben Al-Ahmar of the well-known Emirate of Granada. 

It was actually erected over old Roman ruins.  Designated a royal palace in 1333, the site was declared the official Royal Court of Ferdinand and Isabella 100 years later.  This was allegedly where Christopher Columbus received the official endorsement for his famous expedition.

10. Vianden Castle, Luxembourg

Luxembourg might be a comparatively small European country but it is home to one of the biggest castles west of the famous Rhine.  It’s called Vianden Castle and is found in the town of Vianden.  The castle’s beginnings harken back to the 900s.  

Additional construction continued into the 1300s.  Despite later Gothic additions to the structure, today this castle is a fine example of classic Romanesque architectural style.  Note the trademark semi-circular arches and see for yourself.

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11. Château de Suscinio, France

The Château de Suscinio is located on the coast of northwestern France near the Atlantic Ocean.  This late-medieval castle is surrounded by marshes and was originally the home of Dukes of Brittany and a manor for an agricultural estate.  In the 1100s it was converted to a castle.  It includes a dovecote, a dilapidated chapel, a castle with a moat, and several other ruined structures.  It remains a well-preserved example of a Western European fortress.

12. Malbork Castle, Poland

Known to some as “the Teutonic Order in Malbork,” Malbork Castle is a castle and fortress that dates back to the 1200s.  Located in Northern Poland, it is reported to be the largest castle on the planet when measured by land area.  Construction here was not actually finished until 1406. It had to be expanded numerous times because the number of Teutonic Knights experienced significant growth.  At one time in its history, it was the home of more than 3000 knights.

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13. Trakai Island Castle, Lithuania

Lithuania’s Trakai Island Castle is another big brick castle found in Eastern Europe. Situated on lovely Lake Galvė, the construction of this castle started in the late 1300s.  It would not be finished until 1410.  This island castle was once of great import to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.  It lost its value to the military following the terrible Battle of Grunwald when the Lithuanian-Polish army defeated the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

14. Bodiam Castle, England

The moated Bodiam Castle situated in East Sussex is a quintessential European castle.  Dating back to the 1300s, it features round towers, a large gatehouse, and other striking, iconic features.  It was constructed by one of Edward III’s former knights, Sir Edward Dalyngrigge.  Some historians debate whether it was originally meant to be a haven for royalty or a structure for defense purposes during the infamous Hundred Years’ War.  Today it is a well-known, popular tourist attraction.

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15. Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

The fairytale-reminiscent, romantic Bojnice Castle in Slovakia has surprisingly humble origins.  Located on a travertine hill, it began as little more than a wooden stronghold in the 1100s.  It went through numerous changes based on the preferences of successive rulers.  Count Janos Ferenc Palffy was particularly influential as he embellished it with art, antiques, and vibrant tapestries.  Today it includes a historical museum and hosts the International Festival of Ghosts and Spooks every spring.    

16. Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria

Medieval Hohenwerfen Castle near the Tennen Mountains is ensconced within the Berchtesgaden Alps.  This rugged rock castle is roughly 25 miles away from Salzburg.  It was erected during the 11th century.

Built atop a 500-foot high rock, it was meant to be a strategic military base.  It was also a home, a hunting retreat, and, perhaps most interestingly, a state prison.  Today the castle complex is a museum highlighted by a huge collection of weapons.

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17.  Château de Pierrefonds, France

The gargantuan Château de Pierrefonds is located in the commune of Pierrefonds.  It is said by some to be an excellent example of “defensive medieval military architecture.”  Constructed in the late 1300s, it would not be complete until sometime in the early 1400s.  

It would later be destroyed and remain in ruins for the next 200+ years.  Finally, in 1810 Napoleon purchased the ruins and rebuilt it.  It’s been a historical monument since 1862.

18.  Corvin Castle, Romania

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunedoara Castle or Hunyadi Castle is located in Hunedoara.  This Gothic-Renaissance castle was constructed towards the close of the Middle Ages.  It is said to be one of Europe’s largest castles.

The castle is an imposingly large building.  It comes complete with bastions, diversely colored roofs, tall towers, rows of balconies and windows, and an inner courtyard.  Each balcony features stone carvings.  The impressive Buzdugan Tower was constructed for purposes of defense.

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19. Hluboká Castle, Czech Republic

Hluboká Castle is found in Hluboká nad Vltavou.  Unlike numerous castles erected in the Middle Ages, this chateau was not built to serve as a defensive military stronghold.  It features a prominent Gothic architectural design and was actually expanded during the Renaissance and eventually rebuilt into a beautiful Baroque castle.  Later, Johann Adolf II von Schwarzenberg rebuilt it yet again to make it look more like England’s famous Windsor Castle.

20. Doorwerth Castle, Netherlands

You’ll find the charming Doorwerth Castle not too far from Arnhem on the famous river Rhine.  It’s believed that it was originally little more than a wooden building.  No records of the structure exist prior to 1250.

As time passed it would be rebuilt from stone.  The castle of Doorwerth presently has an attractive, unique appearance. Visitors say that despite the moat, the castle still somehow has an inviting vibe to it.

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21.  Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, France

The Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is situated in the Vosges mountains.  It faces towards the Black Forest and overlooks the well-known Alsatian plain.  This medieval castle was constructed circa 1147.

Built from pink sandstone, the castle has all the expected features of a fortress.  Its location is perfect for purposes of observation and, if need be, retreat.   The ground floor includes the grand bastion and living quarters.  Above you’ll find other charming chambers.  

22. Fenis Castle, Italy

Unlike other castles erected for purposes of military defense, Fénis Castle is found atop a small knoll in the town of Fénis.  While this medieval castle has a defensive structure, it only served as the official seat of the famous Challant family.

The castle has a pentagonal layout and round towers.  The southwest corner is unusual in that it features a huge tower.  The watchtowers are linked via a single walkway.   

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23. Castillo de Coca, Spain

You’ll find Castillo de Coca in Segovia in Central Spain.  This castle was constructed in the 1400s.  Travel experts report that it is perhaps one of the very best examples of old Spanish Mudejar brickwork.  The bricks that were used in building Castillo de Coca are significantly different than normal bricks in that they are actually hardened to better withstand an enemy onslaught.

24.  Karlštejn, Czech Republic

Karlštejn Castle is roughly 19 miles out of Prague.  It was constructed in the mid-1300s.  It was originally meant to be a safe place to store the valuable Imperial Regalia, royal treasures, holy relics, and crown jewels.

This castle had a noteworthy defense system.  It is situated on a hill, has a bastion, a battlement, a moat and drawbridge, and two separate gates.  It features mainly Gothic architecture.

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25. Burghausen Castle, Germany

The must-see medieval Burghausen Castle is situated near the borders of Austria and Germany.  It still has almost all of its original fortifications intact.  Burghausen Castle is one of the world’s largest castle complexes.  

According to Guinness World Record officials, it is also the longest.  Built in traditional Gothic style, it was the second home of the Dukes of Lower Bavaria.  The castle’s gallery also has an impressive collection of Gothic panel paintings.

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Had enough of the real world? Looking for a taste of something a little different? Check out these 17 fantastic fairytale destinations in Europe.

1. Eltz Castle

Eltz Castle is located in the municipality of Wierschem in Germany. This fabulous medieval castle has actually belonged to a single family since the 1100s. Historians report that this is quite rare in Europe. It is one of the only castles located on the Rhine River that has not ever been destroyed.

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Mont-Saint-Michel

Nestled within the picturesque island community of Normandy in France, the famous Mont-Saint-Michel survived a century of tumultuous wars. This famous erstwhile abode of Saint Michel’s ancient monastery is surrounded by water and is surrounded by huge walls once used for strategic defense purposes. Take a guided tour of this historic UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is a magical municipality found in Catalonia, Spain. Specifically, it is situated on the coast of Costa Brava, roughly 103 kilometers north of the city of Barcelona. It features beautiful beaches complete with fine sand and blue waters. This lovely locale is highlighted by a verdant forest and stolid, medieval walls too.

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Dark Hedges

Distinctive Dark Hedges is said by some travelers to be fascinating. This exceptionally atmospheric tunnel of sturdy beech trees is situated on Bregagh Road between the villages of Stranocum and Armoy in Ireland’s County Antrim. A great place for nature lovers, it became famous following its use in the hit HBO TV series “Game of Thrones.”

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Colmar

Known to some as “Little Venice”, Colmar is a fairytale commune and city in France. The best time to visit is debatable. Many travelers come here in winter to experience the charms of its traditional Christmas market. Others prefer to visit in spring to participate in its seasonal celebration and browse the numerous spring markets.

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Neuschwanstein Castle

The elegant Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Europe’s most visited. It is nestled in Bavaria’s stunning Alps in Germany. Erected in the 1800s, it’s not technically a medieval castle. Still has a majestic, magical appeal. Currently coupled with world-class technology, this popular place presently plays host to more than 1 million travelers every year.

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Rothenburg-ob-der-Tauber

The picture-perfect, postcard destination, Rothenburg ob der Tauber can be found in Germany. This village is ensconced in the Franconia region of Bavaria. You can visit this quaint village almost any time. Frequent flyers favor visiting this spot during the month of December. For it’s only then that you can take in the town’s authentic Christmas market.

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Bled

Found in Slovenia between the Karavanke and the Julian Alps’ highest peaks, Bled is the country’s most popular resort town. This little fairytale village of approximately 9000 residents. You really must see lovely Lake Bled, and the popular Vintgar Gorge too. Feeling adventurous? Brave the 1893-constructed 5,249-foot wooden walkway that crosses the rushing Radovna River.

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Riquewihr

Riquewihr can be found about 13 kilometers from Colmar, in Grand Est, France. Having escaped the bombings during WW II, it has not changed much since the 1500s. Thus, this medieval city is quite picturesque. This magical destination is perfect for history buffs. It also includes scenic landscapes and vineyards and noteworthy eateries for foodies.

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The Castle in Love with the Wind

You’ll discover the famous Castle of Ravadinovo, also known as the “Castle in Love with the Wind”, in the old seaside village of Sozopol in the Republic of Bulgaria. Some claim that it’s “one of the most beautiful castles” in all of Europe. It certainly is one of Bulgaria’s most visited monuments.

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The Orcus Mouth

The awesome Orcus Mouth is ensconced in the great Gardens of Bomarzo in the Viterbo province in Italy. This attraction may help to remind visitors that sometimes true fairy tales can be frightening. These gardens are the centerpiece of a park created in the 1500s. In the 1950s, artist Salvatore Dali directed a film about it.

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The Popeye Village

Situated in the beautiful town of Mellieha on the isle of Malta, Popeye Village is both vibrant and ruggedly beautiful. The numerous, small, colorful houses in the village were created especially for shooting the musical Popeye. While the Robin Williams’ movie was not a big hit, the well-preserved village itself has become a popular tourist spot.

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Prague

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is another famous fairytale destination worth “Czeching” out. It features a unique atmosphere complete with medieval streets and Prague Castle complex too. Visit anytime you can as it’s always inexpensive and, if you’re healthy, it’s walkable too. The food and drink are cheap and hearty as well.

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Kaysersberg

Kaysersberg is a small, beautiful town and former commune in Alsace in Northeastern France only 12 kilometers from Colmar. In English. Kaysersberg means the emperor’s mountain. History buffs will like the towering fortress that symbolizes both Kayersberg’s warlike past and its strategic importance. Shopaholics should visit during December so as not to miss the famous Christmas market here.

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Alcázar of Segovia

Also known as Segovia Castle, this stone stronghold can be found in the city of Segovia in Spain. This stunning castle-palace is perched high up on a crag close to the neighboring Guadarrama mountains. It’s distinctly shaped like the bow of an old ship. It was one of the structures that inspired Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle.

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Isola Bella

Located in southwestern Italy, Tropea is reportedly a real paradise. Here visitors can enjoy the blue water and pleasant, warm climate. It features fairytale-like narrow streets and an olden atmosphere to boot. Be sure you plan your trip so you can see the Aeolian or Stromboli Islands as well.

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Sintra

Once the home to Portugal’s numerous monarchs, the town of Sintra is a quick train ride out of Lisbon. See the Castle of the Moors, the National Palace of Pena, and the Palace of Regaleira. Study the historic architecture of the buildings. Take a romantic stroll through the woods and too.

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