Best Castle Tours in Europe: From French Châteaux to Romanian Castles – A Local’s Guide (2025)

Sharing is caring!

Imagine yourself standing in front of Château de Chambord (the most famous castle in France) and admiring its Renaissance towers reaching toward the clouds. In this moment, you realize this is just the beginning of an epic adventure through Europe’s most magnificent castles! As a French resident, born in Romania, who’s spent countless weekends exploring these architectural marvels, I’ve been on numerous castle tours to experience the beauty of European castles. From the romantic Loire Valley châteaux to the haunting elegance of Transylvania’s fortresses, follow me through an unforgettable journey across Europe’s most stunning castellated treasures.

Here’s something that still amazes me: Europe has over 10,000 medieval castles and fortresses! That’s right – ten thousand. When I first moved to France, I thought I’d see “a few” castles, but I had no idea I was about to embark on a journey that would take me from the elegant Loire Valley to the mysterious heights of the Dordogne Valley. Until I moved here, my only knowledge was basically the one of Transylvania.

I’ll never forget my first castle-hopping adventure in France. I started with what I thought would be a simple weekend trip to the Loire Valley to visit my future family in law for the first time. It then continued with a vague idea of which châteaux I wanted to see, as soon as my mother in law asked me : “So, have you seen Chambord?”. Chambord?? What is Chambord?? I heard a lot of things about the Loire Valley, but I have never given it the right attention. And it has so, so much to offer! (So to answer the question, Chambord is the most famous and maybe the largest castle in the Loire Valley). Since then, I discovered many other European castles and each time they are better than the one before. But, out of 10 000, how to choose? Which are the best castle tours in Europe? Difficult question! But that’s exactly why I’m writing this guide – to show you just a little bit of what Europe has to offer and help create your own perfect castle adventure!

What makes European castles so special isn’t just their architecture or history – it’s how each region tells its own unique story. From the refined Renaissance châteaux of France to the imposing Gothic fortresses of Romania, every castle reflects the dreams, fears, and ambitions of its builders. From my experience, once you start exploring these magnificent structures, you’ll never look at European history the same way again!

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone who wants to live out their fairy tale dreams (no judgment – I’ve definitely pretended to be a princess at Chenonceau (France) !), this guide will help you create the perfect castle-hopping itinerary. I’ve included everything I wish I’d known when I started: the best routes, the best castle tours, hidden gems, practical tips, and even some local secrets that most guidebooks miss.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Europe’s most stunning castellated treasures? Grab your camera, comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of adventure – we’re about to explore some of the most magnificent buildings ever created!

1. French Châteaux: Where Elegance Meets History.

You know what’s funny? Before I moved to France, I thought a castle was something rare. I come from Romania, and there we have some castles (I am sure you heard about the Dracula Castle…) and we are very, very proud of them! But in my head, there could only be a relatively small number of castles per country. Wow, I was wrong! After years of exploring French châteaux, I’ve learned that you can find one at every corner in France, and the best part? Each one tells its own unique story. Let me share what I’ve discovered about these magnificent buildings that have become my weekend obsession.

First things first – if you’re starting your castle journey in France (which I highly recommend), the Loire Valley is your perfect launching pad. I remember my first visit to Chambord (the next day after my mother in law popped that question) – I actually gasped out loud! With 426 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and that iconic double-helix staircase (which everyone here insists was built by Leonardo da Vinci) it’s definitely a “go big or go home” kind of place. I since visited it at least 7 times, and the effect is there every single time !

Image sources for the maps : 1 and 2

The most important tip here would be to arrive right when it opens at 9 AM. I’ve found that tour buses typically show up around 10:30, so you’ll get about 90 minutes of relatively peaceful exploration. Once there, do not miss the french gardens and the domain, which is just as famous as the castle itself! The Chambord domain covers an area as big as Paris intra-muros (the old part of Paris)!! It is that huge ! So make sure not to miss it. I wrote an entire article about the activities you can do, the show that should not be missed and the best photo locations at Chambord Castle. Make sure you read it !

But here’s something many visitors miss – while everyone flocks to Chambord and Chenonceau (both absolutely worth visiting, don’t get me wrong!), some of the most magical experiences happen in lesser-known châteaux. Take Château d’Ussé, for example. Did you know it inspired Charles Perrault to write “Sleeping Beauty”? Another great example is the Chaumont-sur-Loire Castle that is very well known for the french but not so much for the tourists.

If we wander further than the Loire Valley, there are beautiful castles literary at every corner in France! My favorite ones are the five castles of the Dordogne River, which I discovered during an eight-hour kayak descent. It was one of my top ten experiences in Europe! I highly recommend it, as well as the castles! I wrote about it in another article that you can check out here.

Let’s talk practical tips, because I learned these the hard way

The best time to visit French châteaux is actually during shoulder season – April to mid-June or September to October. You’ll get better weather than winter (even though winter is great time too, because Christmas is a serious thing over here), fewer crowds than summer, and (bonus!) the gardens are usually spectacular. During May, one of my favourite ones is the garden festival at Chaumont-sur-Loire, and the combination of historic architecture with contemporary garden design absolutely blew my mind. May is the best month to come, as it’s the blooming season for the roses and they are covering all the castle gardens and villages of the Loire Valley.

If you’re wondering about logistics, here’s what I’ve learned from countless château-hopping weekends: base yourself in Orléans, Tours, or Blois for the Loire Valley. All of these cities have great train connections, and you can either rent a car (my preferred method) or join organized tours. If you’re driving, don’t try to see more than two or three châteaux in one day. Trust me on this—château fatigue is real! I once tried to cram four into a single day, and by the fourth one, I could barely tell which castle was which. (Not to mention that my sisters, whom I was giving a Loire Valley tour to, were starting to threaten me never to sign up for a trip with me again.)

Next, let me share my absolute favorite “hidden” route that most tourists miss: Start in Chinon (amazing fortress with serious Joan of Arc history), then head to Azay-le-Rideau (it appears to float on water!), and finish at Villandry for the most spectacular gardens you’ll ever see. This route usually has lighter crowds, and each castle offers something completely different.

For photography enthusiasts (I’ve become one since moving here – these châteaux are irresistible), early morning or late afternoon light creates pure magic. The Loire Valley has this special kind of light that makes the local stone glow golden. (I guess it is the architect in me speaking!). My favorite photo spot is the one of Château de Chenonceau from the east bank of the Cher River, just before sunset. You’ll get the castle’s reflection in the water, and if you’re lucky, some mist rising from the river. A word about timing: most châteaux are open from 9 AM to 5 PM (longer in summer), but here’s a local secret – many castle grounds open earlier than the buildings themselves. Show up at 8:30, and you might get to wander the gardens alone. I’ve had entire château grounds to myself this way, and there’s nothing quite like watching the morning sun hit those magnificent walls without another soul in sight.

Speaking of hidden gems, let’s venture into Burgundy for a moment. Everyone knows about the wine, but the castles? Absolute treasures! Château de Rochepot looks like it jumped straight out of a medieval manuscript with its multicolored Burgundian roof tiles.

And let’s talk about festivals! Château de Bridoire in the Dordogne is famous for its year-round medieval activities and games. The castle has been beautifully restored and transformed into an interactive medieval experience where you can try your hand at traditional games and challenges that knights and nobles once enjoyed. I spent an afternoon there testing my skills at archery, playing medieval table games, and watching demonstrations of period crafts in the castle’s historical rooms. They even have a medieval kitchen where you can see how feasts were prepared centuries ago.

Always check the castle’s website before visiting – they often host special events and themed days that make the experience even more immersive, though these aren’t always well-advertised to international tourists.

Want to make your château experience extra special? Consider staying in one!

Many châteaux have been converted into hotels, and while they’re not cheap, the experience is unforgettable. I saved up to spend one night at Domaine de Monrecour in the Dordogne Valley, and the highlight was relaxing by their two swimming pools facing the castle (including an adults-only pool with bar service). Its location in Beynac-et-Cazenac puts you right in the heart of the Dordogne Valley, making it the perfect base for exploring the region’s medieval treasures. A great experience that I wrote about here !

So, here are my top Franch Castle tours :

Top castle tours in France	Why
Loire Valley Day Tour Chambord and Chenonceau plus Lunch at a Private Castle	The best, as it includes visits to the 2 most famous Loire Valley Castles as well as a lunch… within another castle ! Check it out on Viator.com
Loire Valley: Transport + Entry to 3 Castles	It offers a fast way to see 3 castles without having to bother with renting a car (it would be impossible to see all 3 castles in such short of time without a car)
Private Afternoon Tour to the Dordogne Valley by EXPLOREO SARLAT	A great way to explore the Dordogne Valley with an English guide. It takes you to the best villages and castles in the area and the tour is adaptable (as it is private).

2. German Fairytale Castles: Following the Romantic Road

Let me tell you about my first time seeing Neuschwanstein. I’d seen a million photos, but nothing prepared me for rounding that bend on the hiking trail to Mary’s Bridge (Marienbrücke) and seeing it in person. It is beautiful ! But honestly…. kind of small! But here’s a fun fact: this castle was actually built in the 1800s! I didn’t know that before going, I always thought it was older, given it’s look. Actually, Walt Disney loved it so much, he used it as inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle. That said, here’s a pro tip I learned the hard way – don’t just stick to the tourist viewpoint. The best photos are actually from the hiking trails above the bridge. I discovered this by accident when I took a wrong turn and ended up with views that made my Instagram followers think I’d hired a drone!

The Romantic Road (Romantische Straße) is Germany’s castle route dream, but the thing is it can get overwhelmingly crowded in summer. I’ve found that October is the sweet spot. (It always is, in Europe). You get those gorgeous autumn colors, the summer crowds are gone, and the weather is usually still decent enough for hiking. Plus, there’s something magical about seeing these beautiful castles emerge from morning mist during fall. A quick note about the difference between a Burg and a Schloss, before going to Germany – I learned this after embarrassingly using the wrong term several times. A Burg is a fortress-style castle built for defense (think thick walls and high positions), while a Schloss is more of a palace built for comfort and showing off wealth (like Neuschwanstein).

Here’s my tried-and-tested route for castle hunting in Bavaria

Start with Hohenschwangau (Neuschwanstein’s neighbor and often overlooked – big mistake!). Most tourists rush straight to Neuschwanstein, but I’ve learned to visit Hohenschwangau first. Not only does it help you understand the history better, but the uphill walk to Neuschwanstein feels less daunting after you’ve warmed up your legs! Speaking of which – wear comfortable shoes! I made the mistake of wearing cute boots my first time. Trust me, your feet will thank you for choosing comfort over style when you’re climbing your third castle hill of the day.

The Rhine Valley castles are a whole different ballgame. I remember taking a river cruise from Bingen to Koblenz, and I counted 13 castles in just a few hours! But here’s what I’ve learned – don’t just see them from the river. Marksburg Castle is the only hill castle on the Rhine that’s never been destroyed, and the guided tour is fascinating. They show you everything from medieval toilets to torture chambers (not for the faint of heart!).

Want to feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine? Stay overnight in Burg Colmberg along the Romantic Road. Many German castles have been converted into hotels (they’re called “Burghotels”), and while they’re not exactly budget-friendly, they’re cheaper than their French counterparts.

Here’s something most guidebooks won’t tell you about German castles – timing is everything. In summer, tour buses start arriving at Neuschwanstein around 10 AM. But if you stay in nearby Füssen and get to the ticket office by 8 AM (I know, I know, but trust me), you’ll be among the first visitors of the day. The morning light on those white limestone walls is worth the early wake-up call!

Transportation-wise, while Germany has excellent public transport, I’ve found that having a car gives you the most flexibility for castle-hopping. That said, if you’re sticking to the Rhine Valley castles, the train-and-boat combination is perfect. The Rhine Valley train line runs right along the river, and you can hop on and off to visit different castles.

The best Castle Tours in Germany

Top castle tours in Germany	Why
Neuschwanstein Castle Tour from Munich	Easy way to get without a car from Munich to Neuschwastein Castle with a guide included.
Koblenz: Rhine Valley Castles and Palaces Boat Tour	This is not a specific castle tour but it’s a great boat tour that gives you the opportunity to see multiple castles at one
Rhine Valley Trip from Frankfurt including Rhine River Cruise	If you need transportation, this tour includes it + the same great boat trip as the previous option!
Heidelberg: Torchlight Tour with a Night Watchman	Many German castles and medieval towns offer special twilight tours during summer months. The one at Heidelberg, makes you experience watching the sun set over the Neckar Valley from those ancient walls and is one of those travel moments you never forget. Just book these in advance – they’re popular with locals and tend to sell out.
Romantic Road, Rothenburg, and Harburg Day Tour from Munich	All in one castles + villages on a day trip from Munich !

3. Spanish Fortresses: Moorish Influence and Medieval Might

Let’s shift our focus to the sunny region of Catalonia, Spain. As someone who’s explored these magnificent fortresses (I live at only 3 hours away from Spain ! I am lucky, I know), I can say they offer a completely different experience compared to the French châteaux and German fairytale castles.

What really strikes me about the Catalan castles is the incredible blend of architectural styles, reflecting the region’s tumultuous history. You see, when different powers ruled over Catalonia through the centuries, they each left their mark on the local castles.

One of my favorite examples is the Castell de Cardona. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, this fortress seamlessly combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements. The first time I laid eyes on its soaring towers and imposing walls, I felt transported to another era.

The Pyrenees region is a treasure trove for nature lovers but also for castle enthusiasts. Start your journey in Lleida and visit the Seu Vella, an immense cathedral-fortress that dominates the city’s skyline. Wander the maze-like streets to reach the impressive keep, and be sure to climb to the top for panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.

Another great exploration is Segovia’s iconic duo: the Alcázar, a fairytale castle perched on a rocky crag, and the majestic Cathedral, a soaring Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the city. Together, they weave a story of history, art, and breathtaking views. Here is a great tour for a day trip from Madrid!

Now, if you’re looking to escape the crowds at the major castles in Spain, like the ones in Andalousia which I don’t cover in this article, head south to the medieval town of Tossa de Mar. One of my favorite Catalan castle routes takes you through the Costa Brava region. Start in Tossa de Mar, where the Vila Vella fortress stands guard over the picturesque seaside town. From there, head north to Begur and explore the impressive Castell de Begur, which offers panoramic vistas of the sparkling Mediterranean.

Another great place to visit nearby, even though it’s not a castle, is the Sant Pere de Rodes Monastery. Perched high on Mount Verdera in Catalonia is a 10th-century monastery offering spectacular 360-degree views over the Mediterranean Sea and mountains. While its restaurant serves nice meals (and I recommend it for a great stop), the panoramic vistas are the real draw. This secluded spot offers a peaceful escape from tourist crowds. Just keep in mind there’s a short walk from the parking area to the entrance, but it’s an easy path without steep slopes.

And I just can’t talk about monasteries whitout mentionning the Montserrat Monastery, close to Barcelona. If you fly into Spain, don’t miss it, as it’s an incredible place ! It’s amazing to think how they built all of that in the mountains. Don’t stop at Montserrat Monastery—hop on the funicular train to soar even higher and soak in panoramic views that will leave you speechless! You can easily get there by train or with this tour from Barcelona.

As you continue your journey, keep an eye out for the impressive Catalan Romanesque architecture that characterizes many of the region’s castles. The Castell de Mataró, the Castell de Cardona, and the Castell Vell in Girona are all stunning examples of this unique style.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – with all these castles, how do you possibly choose which ones to visit? Here’s a tip: consider combining your castle explorations with other cultural experiences. For instance, plan your trip to coincide with one of the incredible medieval festivals or reenactments that take place at many of these fortresses.

I’ll never forget stumbling upon a traditional Catalan dance performance at the Castell de Montjuïc in Barcelona. The rhythmic music, the vibrant costumes, and the joyful energy of the dancers made the experience truly unforgettable. And let’s not forget the local cuisine and wine – pairing your castle visits with tapas crawls or winery tours is an absolute must for any Catalonia itinerary.

How to get around when visiting Spain? When it comes to transportation, having a rental car gives you the most freedom to explore these scattered castles at your own pace. However, if you’re focusing on the major sites like the Seu Vella or Castell de Sant Ferran, the train network in Catalonia is excellent and will get you there comfortably.

The best castle tours in Spain

Top castle tours in Spain	Why
Montjuic Castle	An interesting visit in Barcelona that many might miss, but I personally think worth it. The views are amazing and the botanical garden it’s just at its gates so it makes for a win-win ! Buy tickets in advance, especially because you need the funicular railway tickets to get up there !
Medieval Castles and Girona Exclusive trip with Catalan Lunch	Great day trip as it takes you to medieval castles (some of them I didn’t even hear before!) and to Girona (one of the filming locations of Games of Thrones)! Plus, you get a traditional catalan lunch to go with it !
Segovia Afternoon Tour with Cathedral from Madrid	I already told you that the Pyrinées are hiding secret treasures ! This tour takes you directly to them and shows you centuries of history in just one day.
Montserrat & Medieval Winery with Tapas/Lunch	A great day trip from Barcelona that takes you to the heights of Montserrat but not only, as it offers a great insight into the spanish culture with a winery and tapas break! Great deal that you can check out via Viator !

4. Romanian Castles: Gothic Romance and Vampire Legends

Finally, we arrive at Romania, my home country ! As someone who was born and raised in the heart of Transylvania, I can say these Gothic fortresses offer a completely different experience from the elegant châteaux and Moorish-influenced strongholds we’ve visited so far. The thing that strikes me most about the Romanian castles is their raw, almost haunting beauty. There’s a certain brooding, romantic quality to them that instantly captures your imagination. And of course, we can’t talk about Romanian castles without mentioning the legendary Bran Castle – the mythical home of Count Dracula himself.

My first visit to Bran Castle was a bit surreal, I have to admit. As I approached the imposing silhouette perched atop its rocky outcrop, I couldn’t help but feel a shiver of anticipation. But beyond the vampire legends, what really struck me was the castle’s stunning Gothic architecture. The pointed towers, the thick stone walls, and the narrow turrets—it’s like stepping into the pages of a gothic novel. Just be aware that you don’t get the well-known perspective of Bran Castle from the main entry. You have to circle around the fence on the exterior or buy a ticket and go to the gardens. This is the only way to see it in its entirety.

So don’t just stick to the main tourist path at Bran Castle. Make sure to explore the lower levels and the interior rooms to get that perspective and a sense of how the castle would have functioned in its heyday. And be on the lookout for hidden nooks and crannies – you never know what kind of spooky surprises you might find! Also, do not miss the underground tunnel with it’s historical gallery, it’s a nice way to finish your visit and get a photo with Vlad Tepes (Dracula or Dracul as the romanians call him) himself.

Now, if you’re looking to escape the crowds at Bran, head north to the Fortress of Făgăraş. This lesser-known complex is an absolute gem for castle enthusiasts. The main castle, with its distinctive red-tiled roofs and sgraffito decorations, is a stunning example of 16th-century Transylvanian architecture. But what really captivated me were the surrounding fortified towers and walls – it’s like stepping into a medieval military outpost.

Speaking of military, one of my favorite Romanian castle routes takes you through the Carpathian Mountains to the Hunedoara Castle, also known as Corvin Castle. This vast Gothic fortress was once the seat of the powerful Hunyadi family, and the sheer scale of the place is simply breathtaking. From the towering keep to the intricate stone carvings, every inch of this castle oozes with history and drama. I love this castle, even though in reality it is a lot smaller than it might seem from the pictures. But you know what? Smaller means cuter sometimes, and I don’t know if we can say a castle is cute, but this one is.

But for me, the best one and the top of the list for Romania is the Peleș Castle in Sinaia. This Neo-Renaissance masterpiece was the summer residence of the Romanian royal family (until less than 100 years ago), and the opulent interiors are a feast for the senses. I’ll never forget the first time I stepped into the stunning Carousel Hall, with its ornate wood carvings and magnificent chandeliers. It is fully furnished and hides many secret passages (the best one is the one in the library!). I love this castle, I actually took my engagement photos here ! And I am not the only one who loves it, Netflix filmed multiple Christmas movies here ! If you visit, make sure to enter the small one, Pelișor. Pelișor “castle” is more like a smaller version of Peleș. It’s just outside the castle, on the left of the road (before arriving to the main castle). You might miss it if you don’t know it’s there, but it is worth your time !

As you explore these Romanian castles, one thing that really struck me was the sense of isolation and remoteness. Many of them are perched atop rugged, windswept hilltops, seemingly guarding the surrounding valleys and forests. It’s easy to imagine how formidable they must have been to any would-be invaders back in the day. Speaking of which, one of the best ways to experience the true might of these castles is to time your visit with one of the many medieval reenactments or festivals that take place throughout the year. I was lucky enough to catch a jousting tournament at Bran Castle, and the thundering hooves and clash of lances sent shivers down my spine. But the best time to visit is during Halloween ! They always make the best of it, decorating all the place and even making it available for parties or sleep-overs. One of my friends has spent a night within the castle! what an experience !

But it’s not just the castles themselves that make Romania such a fascinating destination – it’s the rich cultural tapestry that surrounds them. From the charming Saxon villages to the haunting Transylvanian legends, there’s a sense of mysticism and magic that permeates the entire region.

Least but not last, it’s impossible not to mention the Cantacuzino Castle. Tourists didn’t even know it existed before a famous tv show was aired. Have you heard about “Wednesday” (Adams Family) ? The Nevermore school is actually the Cantacuzino Castle! As romanians, we kept it for us for a long time. The views over the mountains are amazing and this is a great place to visit all year long, summer or winter (we have snow in winter, so please come!).

The most important advice when it comes to transportation in Romania is having a rental car ! This is virtually a necessity for exploring the castles of Romania. The country’s rural landscapes and winding roads make it challenging to rely solely on public transport. Plus, it allows you the freedom to stop and soak in the stunning vistas along the way. Use rentalcars.com and make sure you have a credit card as it is mandatory in Romania.

The best castle tours in Romania

Top castle tours in Romania	Why
Dracula’s Castle: Entry Ticket + Guided Tour	Everyone has heard about the Dracula Castle, but the true story is much more different from the vampire version, and in my opinion much more interesting. It would be a pity to do this castle visit without a guide ! A great option is this one.
Peles Castle, Bran Castle & Rasnov Fort. private tour from Brasov	I love this tour because it offers both Peles Castle and Bran Castle but it takes you too the Rasnov Fortification too. Rasnov is a great example of romanian village and the fortification is a great place to visit. And as a bonus, there is a Dinosaur adventure parc for the kids on site !
Peles Castle, Cantacuzino Castle and Bran Castle Tour From Brasov	Antoher great tour because it includes the Cantacuzino Castle (the filming place of “Wednesday” )
Turda Salt Mine, Corvin Castle and Alba Fortress from Cluj	This tour is great if you are arriving to Romania in Cluj instead of Bucharest. Cluj is the second city of Romania and in many ways amazing ! (ofcourse I say that, I did my studies there). So arriving to Cluj offers a different perspective to Romania and this tour is just a bonus !
Corvin Castle and Sibiu Private Tour from Brasov	Another way to see the Corvin Castle and Sibiu town which was once the European Capital of culture! This tour starts from Brasov and is easy to get to from Bucharest.

5. Planning Your Castle Route Adventure

Let me share my practical tips for planning the ultimate European castle route, drawing from years of experience and, yes, quite a few planning mishaps along the way!

Timing is important when planning your castle route,but most of them can be visited (and are amazing) all year long. That being said, I’ve learned that shoulder season (April-May or September-October) is your best friend. Here’s why: summer crowds can be overwhelming (I once waited two hours just to enter Peleș Castle!), while winter often means limited hours and sometimes complete closures. Plus, those shoulder season temperatures are perfect for all the walking you’ll be doing.

For a 1-Week Castle Adventure in Europe

I recommend focusing on just one or two regions. For example, combine the Loire Valley châteaux with Catalonia’s fortresses. Start in France, spending 3-4 days exploring key châteaux like Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise, then fly to Barcelona or Madrid and spend 3 days exploring the Catalan castles. Trust me – trying to cram more regions into a week will leave you exhausted and rushing through each site.

For a 2-Week Journey

Now we’re talking! This gives you enough time to really dive deep. Here’s my tried-and-tested route:

Start in France (4 days)

• You can either base in Paris and do day trips to the Loire Valley and the castles around Paris, like Versailles or Villandry
• or you can go to the Dordogne Valley and start a medieval castle periple ! If you choose so, base in Sarlat-la-Caneda (a medieval french town with amazing stone architecture and markets twice a week).

Take the Train to Germany’s Romantic Road (3 days) or Fly to Catalonia (3 days).

So you have to choose to either arrive in Barcelona, that you can use as a base or do a road trip using a rental car. Or to go to Germany, base yourself in Rothenburg ob der Tauber ( a medieval dream with cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and a magical vibe—especially at night) or in Füssen (which is perfect for exploring Neuschwanstein Castle and the alpine landscapes at the end of the road).

End your European Castle Route in Romania (4 days). Take the plane to Bucharest and rent a car there. Drive to Brasov or Busteni and use them as a base. This will allow you to cover the main romanian castles easily.

Budget Considerations: Let’s talk money, because castle-hopping isn’t exactly cheap. Here’s what I’ve learned:

Europe can get expensive really quickly but it is possible to visit these castles even on a budget. Let me share some money-saving secrets I’ve discovered over years of castle-hopping adventures. First of all, castle passes are absolute game-changers and a must. I remember my first trip to the Loire Valley, frantically calculating entrance fees until a friendly local pointed me toward the Loire Valley Pass. That little piece of plastic saved me nearly 30% on entrance fees and, bonus point, let me skip some pretty lengthy queues!

If you can, plan your visits around the first Sunday of each month. It’s amazing how many castles offer free or heavily discounted entry on these days. Though fair warning – you might have to deal with larger crowds.

When it comes to accommodations, forget those touristy hotels right next to famous castles. Trust me on this one, even in Romania (where prices are a lot cheaper than in France) a room near Bran Castle can be very expensive. Instead, I’ve found some absolute gems in nearby towns.

So the golden rule is to find a base in a lesser known or further away towns instead of the capital city or the most known towns.For example:

• In the Loire Valley, staying in charming Amboise instead of Tours saved me about 40% on accommodation
• Near Transylvania’s castles, I found wonderful guesthouses in Brasov for a third of Bran’s prices
• In Catalonia, basing myself in Figueres (or Tossa de Mar for a seaside option) instead of Barcelona made a huge difference to my budget.

Just keep in mind you absolutely need a rental car to be able to do this. Make sure you have an active credit card (european rental companies won’t accept it or they would charge it a lot more). I always recommend rentalcars.com for hiring, as it always gets the best deal. Another great option is to use Booking.com, especially if you reserve your accommodation through them, as they offer discounted prices. If you can speak french, a great rental website is bsp-auto.com.

One of my favorite money-saving strategies (and this one adds so much to the experience) is packing picnic lunches or buying food in “boulangeries” (France) and “brutarii” (Romania). There’s something about enjoying local bread, cheese, and wine in a castle’s gardens. With my family in law (who leaves at 30 minutes from Chambord) we often do picnics in the castles’ gardens. And this is not the only castle that allows it! Most castles have beautiful grounds perfect for this, and you’ll save a small fortune compared to castle cafés.

And here’s a little-known secret: many castles offer early bird tickets at discounted rates. I’ve started planning my visits for early mornings – not only do I save money, but I also get those perfect, tourist-free photos. Just remember to check castle websites for specific timing and seasonal changes. Sometimes the most budget-friendly experiences turn out to be the most memorable ones!

Let me break down the specific details about castle passes and money-saving strategies across these regions

Free Entry Days

France

• First Sunday of each month (October-March) for national monuments
• July 14 (Bastille Day) – many castles offer free entry

Catalonia

• First Sunday of each month for most castles
• May 18 (International Museum Day)
• September 11 (National Day of Catalonia

Romania

• First Saturday of each month for state-owned castles
• August 15 (Romanian Navy Day) – selected castles

Budget Accommodation Tips

Loire Valley

• Stay in Amboise or Blois instead of Tours
• Recommended guesthouses: La Breche (~65€/night)
• Camping sites near Chambord (~25€/night)

Catalonia

• Base in Figueres instead of Barcelona
• Local pensions in Cardona (~45€/night)
• Historic hostels in Girona’s old town (~30€/night)

Romania

• Stay in Brasov instead of Bran
• Local guesthouses in Sinaia or Busteni (~35€/night)
• Mountain hostels near major castles (~20€/night)

Picnic Spots

• Chambord: West gardens
• Cardona Castle: Northern battlements
• Bran Castle: Forest clearing near parking
• Most castles allow picnics in designated areas
• Local markets in nearby towns offer fresh products

Additional Savings

• Student/Senior discounts (usually 20-30% off)
• Group rates (10+ people)
• Combined transport-entry tickets
• Early bird tickets (book before 9AM)
• Multi-day regional passes

Transportation Strategy

This is crucial – I’ve tested pretty much every combination, and here’s what works best:

• use Skyscanner or Kiwi to compare flights. Google flights also works great, but I prefer the first two ones.
• Use trains between major cities (Paris to Tours, Barcelona to Figueres, Bucharest to Brasov)
• Rent a car for exploring castle regions (essential in Romania but really recommend it in the Loire Valley too, it would make it 10x easier)
• Book car rentals from city offices rather than airports – usually much cheaper
• Consider one-way car rentals between countries if your budget allows, or use trains. You can check all the available options on Omio

Essential Booking Tips

• Book major castles (like Neuschwanstein) at least 2-3 months in advance
• Reserve guided tours for the more complex sites (trust me, Romanian castles need context!)
• Look for combination tickets that include multiple sites
• Check castle websites (especially in France and Germany) for special events – medieval festivals can make your visit extra special

Packing Essentials

Learn from my mistakes! Don’t forget:

• Comfortable walking shoes (those castle stairs are no joke!). I always recommend Allbirds as they are the best. I had mine since 2020 and they are going to their 5th year !
• Portable battery pack (you’ll take more photos than you think)
• Light rain jacket (weather can change quickly, especially in mountainous regions)
• Water bottle (many castles have fountains for refilling)

And here’s something most guides won’t tell you – always carry cash. While many major castles accept cards, smaller sites and some castle cafes in Eastern Europe are still cash-only. In Romania we still use a lot of cash !

6. Ready to make your own Europe castle experience ?

You know what I’ve learned after exploring these magnificent fortresses across Europe? Each castle tells its own unique story, yet together they weave a fascinating tapestry of European history. From the elegant Renaissance châteaux of the Loire Valley to the mysterious Gothic fortresses of Transylvania, each region’s castles reflect not just their builders’ ambitions, but the very soul of their cultures.

Starting in France, we discovered how châteaux transformed from medieval fortresses into elegant royal residences. Moving through Catalonia, we saw how castles adapted to different ruling powers, creating unique architectural fusions. In Germany, we found ourselves in the realm of fairy tales, where dramatic mountaintop castles capture our imagination. And finally, in Romania, we experienced how castles can be both imposing and haunting, wrapped in layers of legend (sometimes false ones) and mystery.

But beyond the grand architecture and historical significance, what makes these castles truly special is how they continue to captivate us today. I’ve watched sunrise paint the Loire Valley châteaux in golden light, seen stars twinkle above Transylvanian towers during Halloween, and witnessed amased faces light up as they first glimpse Neuschwanstein through the trees. These moments remind me that castles aren’t just relics of the past – they’re living monuments that continue to inspire and amaze.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me when I started my castle-hopping adventures: don’t rush. Take time to absorb the atmosphere of each place. Sit in the gardens, sketch the towers, chat with local guides, and imagine the centuries of stories held within those ancient walls. Sometimes the most memorable experiences come from the unexpected – a local festival at a small Romanian fortress, or a sunset view from a hidden corner of a Catalan castle.

And remember, these magnificent structures need our support to survive for future generations. Consider joining castle preservation societies, respect the sites you visit, and spread awareness about these architectural treasures. Many castles offer volunteer opportunities or special behind-the-scenes tours that support their preservation efforts.

Whether you’re planning a dedicated castle-hopping adventure or just want to include a few fortresses in your European journey, I hope this guide helps you create your own magical experiences.

After all, that’s what makes castle exploration so special – each visit is both a journey through history and a chance to create your own memorable adventures. So pack your comfortable shoes, charge your camera, and get ready to discover these magnificent monuments for yourself. The castles of Europe are waiting to share their stories with you!

And who knows? Maybe like me, you’ll find yourself planning your next castle adventure before your current one is even over. Because once you’ve experienced the magic of European castles, they have a way of capturing your heart and drawing you back for more.

Safe travels, fellow castle enthusiasts! May your journeys be filled with wonder, discovery, and just a touch of medieval magic.

Some FAQ – but I am happy to answer any questions in the comments section !