The Most Underrated Castles and Palaces in Europe

Real Fairy-Tale Charm Without the Crowds

When we think of European castles, most people jump straight to Neuschwanstein, Versailles, or Edinburgh Castle. But Europe is packed with hidden gems — beautiful castles and palaces that offer all the magic, history, and Instagram-worthy views without the tourist overload.
Let’s take you off the beaten path to explore some of Europe’s best-kept royal secrets.

The Most Underrated Castles and Palaces in Europe

✍️ Noah · May 14, 2025

Noah TripplBlog Writer
Château de Chambord, France

🌿 1. Château de Chambord, France

While many flock to Versailles, the Loire Valley hides this Renaissance masterpiece.
👉 Surrounded by a vast forest, Château de Chambord feels like stepping into a storybook, complete with turrets, double-helix staircases, and wild deer roaming nearby.

Visitor Tips:

  • Entry fee: 16–20€

  • Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for softer light

  • What not to miss: The rooftop terraces for panoramic views

Predjama Castle, Slovenia

🏞 2. Predjama Castle, Slovenia

This jaw-dropping castle is built inside a cliff!
Predjama Castle combines dramatic natural surroundings with medieval engineering — it’s less famous but one of the coolest-looking castles in Europe.

Visitor Tips:

  • Entry fee: 15–20€

  • Best time: Spring or autumn (avoid summer crowds)

  • Pair it with: Postojna Cave nearby

Trakai Island Castle, Lithuania

🏰 3. Trakai Island Castle, Lithuania

Imagine a red-brick medieval castle sitting on a tiny island, surrounded by shimmering lakes. That’s Trakai. It’s an easy day trip from Vilnius and offers peaceful, scenic views.

Visitor Tips:

  • Entry fee: 10–15€

  • Best time: Summer for boat rides or winter when the lake freezes

  • Fun fact: Once home to Karaim (Turkic) settlers — try their traditional pastries!

Burg Eltz, Germany

🏞 4. Burg Eltz, Germany

Unlike many famous German castles, Burg Eltz feels untouched. It’s been owned by the same family for over 850 years and sits nestled deep in a forest. No wonder it’s called the “hidden treasure” of the Moselle Valley.

Visitor Tips:

  • Entry fee: 12–15€

  • Best time: Spring or autumn when the surrounding woods are most colorful

  • Insider tip: Hike the scenic trail to approach the castle on foot

Palácio da Pena, Portugal

🏰 5. Palácio da Pena, Portugal

It might be Instagram-famous, but surprisingly, it’s still often overlooked compared to Lisbon’s main attractions. With its vibrant colors, romantic architecture, and dramatic hilltop setting, Palácio da Pena is pure fantasy.

Visitor Tips:

  • Entry fee: 14–17€

  • Best time: Weekdays to avoid weekend day-trippers from Lisbon

  • Pro tip: Buy a combined ticket with Sintra’s other palaces for savings

These castles offer not just stunning architecture but also stories, culture, and quiet corners that big-name tourist spots often lack.
So next time you plan a European escape, skip the usual suspects and explore where fairy-tale charm still feels real.

✍️ This blog was written by Noah.

Noah TripplBlog Writer
Written By Human Not By AI