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.
✍️ Noah · May 14, 2025
🌿 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
🏞 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
🏰 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!
🏞 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
🏰 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.
