France

12 Best Day Trips from Paris You Can’t Miss

Paris is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, but it’s also a great base for discovering France and some of the neighbouring countries as well. If you’re planning to visit Paris and you have a few extra days, consider yourself lucky, as you can find many amazing sights around the city. If you need some ideas, here’s a list about the best day trips from Paris!

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Table of Contents

Best day trips from Paris

1. Palace of Versailles

Recommended by Maartje from The Orange Backpack

As one of the most famous palaces around the world, the Palace of Versailles makes a great day trip from Paris. The palace can easily entertain you for days with its extended park grounds, smaller residences and beautiful gardens.

The Versailles palace as we know it today was constructed by Louis XIV, better known as the Sun King. After him the most important addition was the impressive opera house you should definitely see during your visit. It was home to the last French king and his wife Marie Antoinette who loved organizing extravagant parties and enjoy life to the fullest. We all know that didn’t end well for the couple during the French revolution.

Versailles is now one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in France. The royal apartments are stunning, the famous Hall of Mirrors is a gem and the smaller residences in the park are a must as well. The park is home to some smaller palaces – the Grand and Petit Trianon – and to a Hamlet created for Marie Antoinette to play dress up as a shepherdess in a surreal idyllic village.

It’s only a 45-minute drive from the Paris city center to the palace, so joining an organized tour isn’t necessary if you have a rental car or Uber app. The nearest train station is Versailles Château Rive Gauche. Train tickets are cheap and the ride takes about an hour.

The palace is open from 9 am, except for Mondays. Note that some park highlights like the Trianon only open in the afternoon. Access to the gardens is free, but a ticket for the palace and the sights at the estate will cost you 20 EUR (23 USD) per person – or more if you book a ticket during specific events like the fountain shows.

2. Disneyland Paris

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Disneyland is one of the most popular day trips from Paris, for a good reason! Even if you’re an adult and you’re traveling without kids, you will enjoy spending your day at one of the parks in Disneyland.

There are actually two different parks located right next to each other: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. It’s possible to visit both parks in just one day if you only try some of the best rides, but you can also decide to visit only one. In this case I would recommend to choose Disneyland Park as it is bigger and more interesting than the other one.

Ticket prices vary based on the number of parks you want to visit and the selected dates. If you want to visit only one park, you can get a ticket between 59-82 EUR (70-105 USD), while visiting both parks will cost you between 79-109 EUR (94-130 USD). Try to visit during the week as tickets for weekdays are cheaper and the parks are a lot less crowded than on the weekends. If you have more time, you can also purchase a multi-day ticket and stay at one of the hotels at Disneyland.

The easiest option to visit Disneyland from Paris is to take the RER A train which departs from Gare de Lyon Paris and goes directly to Disneyland. The journey takes around 1 hour and since Disneyland is located in Zone 5, if you have a Navigo Pass or a day ticket for all the 5 zones, the fare is already included in your pass.

3. Château de Chantilly

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

The town of Chantilly makes a great day trip from Paris. Chantilly is located 50 km north of the French capital and it is very easy to reach by direct train from Paris Gare du Nord (it is a 25-minute ride).

Chantilly is best known for the fairy-tale Château of Chantilly, one of the best castles near Paris. Unlike Château de Versailles or Château de Fontainebleau, Chantilly is not a royal castle but its setting is so picturesque and the surrounding gardens so beautiful that it makes a great alternative to the most famous castles.

The current building was commissioned in the 19^th century by Henri d’Orleans, Duke of Daumale and grandson of King Louis-Philippe I, to replace a medieval construction which was totally destroyed during the French Revolution. Henri d’Orléans was the greatest art collector of his time and used his new home to showcase all his artworks to the point that Chantilly is today the second largest collection of antique paintings after the Louvre.

After visiting the castle take a stroll around the beautiful French-style gardens. The gardens were designed by André Le Notre, the same landscape designer of Versailles Gardens. The gardens include huge mirrors of waters, many fountains, and classical sculptures.

Château de Chantilly is open every day except Tuesday. The ticket costs 15.30 EUR (18 USD) and includes also the visit to the Great Stables.

4. Giverny

Recommended by Erica from Travels with Erica

Giverny is one of the most beautiful places in all of France. It was Claude Monet’s final home and he transformed the land into two stunning gardens. The Claude Monet Foundation turned the gardens into a tourist attraction and now they are the most popular (and basically only) thing to do in Giverny.

The gardens are only open from mid-March through November, so you’ll have to strategically plan your trip to Paris if you want to experience them. Admission is only 8 EUR (9.3 USD) if you purchase your ticket onsite at the ticket booth. You can also purchase your tickets online, but there is a 3 EUR (3.5 USD) processing fee on top of the base ticket price.

To get from Paris to Giverny, you simply need to take a 45-minute train ride. Trains to Giverny depart every hour from Saint-Lazare Paris train station. Once you arrive in Giverny, you have to take a short shuttle bus to the gardens. There is always a bus waiting at the train station, so you’ll have no problem finding it.

Monet’s gardens are becoming more and more popular, and they are more crowded now than they were in the past. That doesn’t take away from the experience though! But if you want to avoid the crowds as much as possible, make sure to be at the Giverny train station at 9:15am to get on the first shuttle to the gardens.

Once you’re done touring Monet’s Gardens, consider taking the time to stroll through the village of Vernon. There are a few restaurants to grab lunch at, they’re delicious and a great way to relax before hopping on a train back to Paris.

5. Rouen

Recommended by Cazzy from Dream Big, Travel Far

Rouen is a beautiful French city located not far from Paris. It’s actually the capital of the northern French region of Normandy, and it’s such a unique place. There are many brilliant things to do in Rouen and the city perfectly blends modern architecture and old town charm to produce a place that’s oozing culture and beauty.

Rouen is located only 1 hour and 30 minutes from Paris via train, and there are around 28 trains per day, making it a perfect day trip from Paris! You could also drive, but that might take a little longer with the typical Paris traffic.

When you arrive at Rouen you’ll have lots to see and do. Start by visiting the beautiful Gothic style cathedral which is free to enter and very beautiful. Then take a trip to the Gothic Church (Church Of Saint-Maclou) which again is free to enter. After that you should wander the cobbled streets and join a historic walking route throughout the old town. You’ll discover lots of charming buildings and historic areas, including the Church of St Joan of Arc.

Rouen is also home to well priced restaurants and beautiful flower gardens. One of the most popular is Jardin des Plantes de Rouen which even has a boating lake and features flowers and plants from all 5 continents.

6. Provins

Recommended by Stephen from Monk Bought Lunch

For travellers looking for a radical departure from the bustle of the big city in Paris, a day trip to the medieval city of Provins in the Ile de France region presents an opportunity to escape into the small winding lanes and imposing castle walls of a proper medieval town, and the city’s long history of medieval fairs won it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2001.

For many visitors, just strolling through the ancient city streets and into the surrounding countryside will be enough for a fulfilling visit – photographers in particular will be impressed by the almost-original fortifications, which were lightly restored after the Hundred’ Years War and the French Revolution but largely retain their authentic original structures.

Tourists looking for a bit more definition to their wandering might consider the Provins Pass (adult/child 12/8.5 EUR), a multi-site admission ticket that combines entrance fees for the four main historical attractions in town. The 12^th century Cesar’s Tower offers panoramic views of the village, the Tithe Barn sets up audio-guided narration that attempts to evoke the everyday lives of the residents of medieval French towns, the Underground Galleries allows visitor a guided exploration of the quarry tunnels beneath the city that were utilized as storage and hideaways and much more, and the local Provins Museum presents local historical artifacts inside a converted medieval house.

Provins is in Zone 5 of the Transilien P train service from Paris’ Gare de l’Est – the trip takes approximately an hour and a half. Popular NAVIGO transport cards that include the Zone 5 tariff are eligible for travel to Provins, or a same-day round-trip individual ticket is available from 12 EUR (14 USD).

7. Compiegne

Recommended by Emma from Bonjour Sunset

Compiegne is a calm and charming city in the north of France, easily reachable for a day trip from Paris. You can take a train from Gare Du Nord in Paris and it takes only 45 minutes to reach Compiegne. Some of the best things to do in Compiegne are to visit the Chateau (the imperial palace), hike the many trails of the forest and visit the location where the French Armistice was signed for both World Wars.

The Chateau de Compiegne used to be the summer residence of French royalties, and one of the favorites of Napoléon. Nowadays, 3 museums can be visited within the Palace: The imperial apartments, the Museum of the Second Empire and the National Car Museum. Adjacent to the palace is a gorgeous 700 hectares park, crossed by the Beaux-Monts alley, a 5km uphill promenade leading to a spectacular view over the city. There are kilometers of well indicated trails through the forest, ideal for nature lovers.

Another interesting site to visit is the Clairiere de l’Armistice, a clearing in the forest with an historical train wagon. This is where in 1918 the French signed the Armistice, ending the 1st World War. The symbolic significance of the location wasn’t lost on Hitler, who chose the same location to impose his terms on the defeated France. The train carriage is now a memorial to both events.

Back in town, check the Hotel de Ville, the UNESCO World Heritage Saint Jacques Church, or spend some time in the very cute Jardin Des Remparts. The center of the city is quite small, so everything is doable on foot, but if you want to wander further the city’s public transports are free.

8. Strasbourg

Recommended by Mark from Wyld Family Travel

Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace region of North Eastern France. If you’re looking for an amazing day trip from Paris, Strasbourg is a great choice as it can be easily reached in 2 hours from Paris on the TGV.

Strasbourg is a city with strong influences from both France and Germany, having belonged to both countries numerous times in history. Today most people head to Strasbourg to visit its old town cobbled streets, world-famous cathedral and picturesque La Petite France district.

A boat ride on the canals of Strasbourg will introduce you to the amazing wooden coloured old-world houses of Strasbourg. The Strasbourg Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world – make sure you climb the Cathedral tower for the best view of the city! During the Christmas period, Strasbourg plays host to one of the most famous and popular Christmas markets in Europe.

The food and wine is a must when visiting, make sure you try the regional special called Flammkuchen, it is an Alsace version of pizza and wash it down with a local Gewürztraminer wine. A day trip to Strasbourg with teens, couples or singles is a must!

9. Colmar

Recommended by Christine from Journey to France

Colmar is another popular destination in France’s Alsace region and it’s almost 500km from Paris. But with an efficient train system in France, it can easily be reached in less than 3 hours – that’s why this picturesque city is among the best and popular day trips from Paris! Located in North-Eastern France, on the border with Germany, this town is one of the fairytale towns in France. It’s also right in the heart of France’s Alsace region, known for its vineyards and fine wines.

One of the best things to do in Colmar is strolling along the cobbled streets of its charming old town and marvel at the half-timbered houses. The Old Town, in particular, looks straight out of a movie set. With romantic little bridges or tree-lined streets, nearly every spot is picture-perfect. Colmar’s Old Town is an architectural goldmine, and these giant masterpieces greet you at every turn. Explore more and you’d find more medieval and early Renaissance structures all over town, such as the quirky Maison Pfister.

Walk along with the riverfront neighborhood of Little Venice, and enjoy the colorful fairytale-like scenery. Located near Quai de Poissoniers, this area is one of Colmar’s best attractions and dates back to the 14^th century. With all the conflict, revolution, and wars that France has suffered, Little Venice remains unscathed. Make sure to also check out the impressive Gothic architecture of St. Martin’s Collegiate Church.

To get here from Paris, you can take a train to Strasbourg first. The train from Paris to Strasbourg takes only 2.5 hours and from Strasbourg to Colmar, you can take another train for only half an hour. You also have an option to take a bus but it will take an hour. The train fare might cost you between 80-90 EUR (94-105 USD) for a one-way fare. There are also several day tours that leave Paris to Alsace Region which includes Colmar and that might be an ideal alternative if you want to visit more places and it’s also cheaper.

10. Metz

Recommended by Martina & Jürgen from PlacesofJuma

The beautiful city of Metz is located in the Northeast of France, near the borders of Germany and Luxembourg. On a day trip from Paris you will have the chance to explore many lovely places in that town: picturesque gardens, a historic old town, the many delicious French restaurants and noble boutiques are just a few of the top highlights on any trip to Metz.

This charming town is settled directly on the marvelous Moselle River, where bridges connect to the island of Saulcy, a charming area with many buildings from the 18^th century. On warm summer days, people love to stroll along the riverbanks, having a picnic or taking a romantic boat ride on the beautiful river.

The main attraction and an absolute must-visit is the Metz Cathedral – Saint-Étienne – one of the most beautiful and largest Gothic church buildings in France. Also interesting is the Opéra-Théatre de Metz Métropole (Opera House), which is one the oldest opera house in Europe. Another highlight is the Place Saint-Jacques, which is well known by locals and tourists for its many lovely cafés and restaurants whose terraces are popular in summer.

All in all, Metz is truly amazing and with lots of historic charm and plenty of wonderful attractions for sure one of the best villages to visit in the area around Paris.

11. Luxembourg

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If you are in Paris and wish to visit a place with remarkable and attractive sites along with rich culture and history, then Luxembourg is an ideal place. Luxembourg is located in Western Europe bordered by Germany, Belgium, and France.

Paris from Luxembourg is a mere 2 hours 15 minutes journey through a TGV train that covers approximately 288 kilometers from Paris. There are around 19-20 trains that run directly from Paris to Luxembourg every day. The earliest train of the day departs at 7:27 from Paris and the last train comes back at 20:40 from Luxembourg, which gives you a full day to explore the city.

Usually tickets for the journey can be booked for 12 months in advance but in case if the booking is not open yet, there is an option to set an alert so that you can receive a mail whenever the booking starts. The cheapest journey from Paris to Luxembourg can take place at 33 EUR (39 USD) if tickets are booked in advance. Tickets booked 30 days before the journey will cost around 100 EUR (117 USD) while booking done within 7 days will cost 61 EUR (71 USD).

A must visit place at Luxembourg is the Old Quarter which is a world heritage site recognized by UNESCO. One can admire the culture displayed at the National Museum History of Art that includes coins, historical documents, and weapons. Other things to do at Luxembourg include a visit at Bock Cliff known for fortifications and cannons, explore Berdorf and enjoy a spa at Mondor-les-Bains. The Bock Casements and Grand Ducal Palace are also must-watch landmarks with picturesque beauty.

12. London

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Since the opening of the Euro Tunnel, the trip from Paris to London has become one of the most popular and frequently used routes. The Eurostar has made this day out very easy and comfortable for all the family. Setting off from Paris Gare Du Nord, you will arrive at Kings Cross, in the heart of London in under 2hrs 20mins.

With 14 trains a day, it is best to get the first train just before 8am, arriving at 9am and heading back to Paris on the last train just after 9pm. Booking in advance is highly recommended to avail the best price for the journey, usually costing around 88 EUR (103 USD) each way.

After arriving to London, two places that are a must visit to get a feel of the history evident within the city are Buckingham Palace and Marble Arch, Oxford Street. Buckingham Palace is home of the most famous monarchy in the world, and conveniently located in the famous Hyde Park. Try to arrive at the palace by 10:45am, to get a glimpse of the famous changing of the guards ceremony. From Kings Cross, Buckingham Palace is easy to access via the underground, to either Hyde Park Corner or Green Park station.

Before indulging in a bit of retail therapy down the famous Oxford Street, start the walk at Marble Arch. Designed in 1827, used as a grand entrance for royal visits, this huge arch is a perfect instagrammable spot! Marble Arch, marks the start of Oxford Street and easy to access by walking through the park to its corner. Oxford Street is always bustling and buzzing, filled with locals and tourists, it is definitely a must visit for every trip to London.

Best day trips from Paris - Map

Final thoughts

I hope you liked this post about the best day trips from Paris and you will be able to visit some of them on your next trip. If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Do you know some other locations that would make a great day trip from Paris? Let me know in the comments!

xoxo, Kriszti

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Complete Guide to Visiting the Lavender Fields in Provence

Visiting the lavender fields in Provence was one of my biggest dreams ever since I saw the picture perfect purple rows of lavenders all over Instagram. I finally had the chance to visit in 2020 and let me tell you something: the lavender fields are even more beautiful in real life than on the pictures!

If you’re also dreaming of visiting Provence, you are in the right place! In this guide I gathered all the important information that you need to know before visiting the lavender fields in Provence including tips about where to stay, how to get there and where to find the most beautiful fields.

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Best time to visit the lavender fields in Provence

Let’s start with the most important thing: when is the best time to visit Provence to see the lavender fields? As the lavenders only bloom for a short period of time, your timing is really crucial as it can make or break your whole trip.

The general rule of thumb is that the lavender fields usually bloom between mid-June and mid-July. Of course it can vary a bit based on the weather conditions so the timing of the full bloom can be slightly different every year. It’s best to do a little research before your trip just to be on the safe side, but generally the best time to visit the lavender fields in Provence is the last week of June or the first week of July.

The school holidays in France usually start after the first week of July so if you’re planning to visit after, you will find more tourists in the area as the locals also like spending their summer vacation in Provence.

Although lavenders can technically bloom until August, most of the fields are being harvested in the middle of July so the farmers can extract the lavender oil. That being said, it’s still possible to find some lavender fields in August but bear in mind that the most beautiful ones will be already gone by this time.

Based on all this, we decided to visit in the first week of July (specifically from 1 July to 5 July) and it was the perfect timing. The lavender fields were already in full bloom and we could also find blooming sage fields and sunflower fields as well. It was also perfect weather-wise as it didn’t rain and every day was sunny and hot.

What is the weather like in Provence during the lavender season

Just like the other Mediterranean areas, Provence is usually hot and sunny in the summer with little to no rainfall. As the lavender season falls between mid-June and mid-July, be prepared for scorching hot days with an average temperature of 27-30ºC.

However, the mornings and evenings tend to be a lot colder, especially when the weather is windy. Therefore it’s important to pack a sweater or a light jacket as well – trust me, you’re gonna need it!

As there are practically no shades on the lavender fields, make sure to protect yourself from the sun during the day by wearing sunglasses and hats and applying sunscreen both on your face and body. It’s also important to have plenty of water with you to avoid dehydration.

How to get to Provence

The closest airport to the lavender fields in Provence is located in Marseille so if you’re planning to arrive from another country, this is your best option. The most beautiful lavender fields are located around Valensole and it takes around 1 hour to get there from Marseille by car.

Another option is to fly to Nice, from there it takes around 2.5 hours to reach Valensole. Although it’s a longer ride, if you can find cheaper tickets to Nice it can still be a great option for you. Especially if you’re planning to visit the Cote d’Azur region as well anyways!

You can also visit Provence from Paris, but bear in mind that it’s gonna be a really long ride. It takes around 7.5 hours to reach Valensole by car without any stops. So in reality, it will be more than 8 hours and on top of that you will need to pay a lot for the toll fees as well.

Another option is to take the train from Paris but since there is no direct route, first you need to take the TGV to Aix-en-Provence and then change to another train to Manosque-Gréoux-les-Bains. The whole journey takes around 5 hours in total and it costs between 65-100 EUR (68-115 USD) per person.

How to get around Provence

Having a car in Provence is a MUST (yes, with capital letters!). Seriously, there are basically no other options for getting around as there is no public transportation in the area. The fields and villages are quite far from each other, it takes anywhere between 10 minutes and 1 hour to get there by car depending on your location and where you want to go, so walking is not an option.

Rental car

If you’re flying to France, you will need to rent a car at the airport to be able to get around. Unfortunately car rental is pretty expensive in France, for instance, it costs around 250-300 EUR to rent a small car at Marseille Airport for 5 days (of course prices can vary based on your preferences, this rate is based on my independent research at the time of writing and I can not guarantee this rate in any way). On top of that, you will need to pay for fuel and toll fees but luckily most of the roads are free to use in Provence.

On the bright side, parking is free almost everywhere and since the lavender fields are located near the roads, you can basically stop anywhere without paying for parking. That being said, if you’re planning to visit the nearby towns, always check the signs if there are any parking fees or not because it always depends on the location.

Bring your own car

If you live in one of the neighbouring countries, it might make sense to visit Provence with your own car to save some money. Of course it depends on your individual situation, so it’s worth doing a calculation before your trip whether it’s worth to take your own car or not. As an advantage, you don’t need to pay for flight tickets and car rental, but on the other hand it might be expensive to get there due to the tolls and you need to calculate with the time of driving as well.

Organized tours

It’s possible to visit the lavender fields with an organized tour as well but the options are very limited. I would still recommend having your own car but if you don’t drive, organized tours can be a great option for you.

Keep in mind that most tours depart from bigger cities like Avignon, Aix-en Provence or Nice so you will need to stay in one of this cities to be able to attend a tour. Below you can find some of the most recommended tours, they all have amazing ratings and they usually cost between 55-110 EUR (63-126 USD) per person depending on the activities and the duration.

Where to stay in Provence

Although you can find lavender fields basically all over Provence, the most beautiful (hence most popular) fields are located around Valensole so if you’re planning to visit Provence (especially for the first time), it’s worth staying in the nearby area. The three best options to stay in are Valensole, Manosque and Riez.

It’s important to keep in mind that Provence is really popular in the lavender season so you should book your accommodation way in advance to avoid higher prices or lack of places to stay in. It’s worth to take a look at your options at least 6 months in advance!

Valensole

Since the best fields are scattered around Valensole it would make sense to stay there but since it’s a really small town, I wouldn’t recommend it. First of all, there are very limited options to choose from when it comes to accommodation and on top of that, you will not find that many restaurants or things to do in the town either. The only advantage is that since it’s close to the fields, it only takes around 5-20 minutes to get there by car, depending on which field you’re planning to visit. You can check all the available accommodations in Valensole here!

Manosque

Manosque is one of the best places to stay in if you’re planning to visit the lavender fields in Provence. Since it’s one of the biggest towns in the area you will find many accommodation options for any budget and there are many great restaurants, cafes and supermarkets in Manosque as well. Not to mention that the town is super cute, you can also spend half a day wandering around the cobbled streets in the old town. We also stayed there and absolutely loved it!

The only disadvantage is that it’s a bit further away from the fields since it’s located 20 km west of Valensole (around 20-25 minutes by car). It means that you will need to drive around 20-40 minutes to reach the fields from Manosque which might seem a bit too much, but in reality it was not an issue for us. On the bright side, if you’re planning to visit other towns in Provence like Roussillon on Gordes (more about them later), Manosque is closer to them than Valensole!

You can check all the accommodations in Manosque here or if you don’t want to spend a lot of time with searching, just check out my recommendations below!

*Please note that the below mentioned rates are calculated for 2 people and they are based on my independent research at the time of writing. Therefore I can not guarantee this rate in any way.*

MID-RANGE – Hôtel Le Pré Saint Michel

Set on the heights of Manosque, in the picturesque Haute Provence region, this country house features a garden with a terrace and a heated seasonal outdoor pool. Hôtel Le Pré Saint Michel offers classically elegant guest rooms, fully equipped with a flat-screen TV and a minibar.

Room rates start from 133 EUR (152 USD) per night – BOOK HERE!

BUDGET – L’Hôtel du Terreau Logis de France

Set in the heart of Manosque, L’Hôtel du Terreau Logis de France offers air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms featuring a TV with Canal+ channels. A free WiFi connection is available in the rooms.

Room rates start from 60 EUR (68 USD) per night – BOOK HERE!

Riez

Riez is another great option if you want to stay close to the lavender fields. It’s located 15 km east of Valensole (20 minutes by car) but since there are many lavender fields between the two cities, you don’t need to drive around that much. Keep in mind that Riez is also a little town just like Valensole, so you will not find so many hotels or restaurants there either. You can check all the accommodations in Riez here!

Where to find the best lavender fields in Provence

If you’ve been reading the previous sections of this post, you already know that the best lavender fields in Provence are located near Valensole. Basically you can find lavender fields everywhere, seriously, you can’t really drive for 5 minutes without spotting another lavender field.

The best roads to follow is D6 (Route de Manosque) which coming from Manosque to Riez and D8 (Route de Départementale) from Valensole to Puimoisson but you can also spot pretty lavender fields along D953 between Puimoisson and Riez. It’s completely free to visit the lavender fields so whenever you find one you like, just park by the road and enjoy the view!

Although all fields are beautiful, there are some lavender fields in particular that are incredibly picturesque. I will share my favourites below with their exact locations!

Lavandes Angelevin

Coordinates on Google Maps: 43.822054 5.937107

The field called Lavandes Angelevin is one of the most popular ones in the area and it’s also famous for the heart-shaped tree on the hillside. It’s located 5 km from Valensole in the direction of Manosque along the D6 road. Since the rows of lavenders are located on a hill, it’s really picturesque – no wonder why it’s one of the most beloved locations for photographers.

There is a big parking lot on the other side of the road and the parking is free. Since it’s one of the most beautiful lavender fields be prepared for the crowds, especially during the day. However, since the field is huge there is plenty of room for everyone! There is a bigger space between the rows so it’s really easy to walk between the lavenders.

Best time to visit this field is at sunset, as the sun is setting right behind the hill and the trees. Sunrise is another great time for visiting, especially because you will have the field all to yourself! We visited this field three times during our stay, once for sunrise and twice for sunset – that’s how much we loved it!

Bonus tip: You can also find a sunflower field right next to the lavender field so it’s worth taking some pictures there as well! Unfortunately there is a big gap between the lavenders and the sunflowers so it’s not that perfect, but I loved taking photos just with the sunflowers too.

Tiny house in the valley

Coordinates on Google Maps: 43.893751 6.116192

This field is located 15 km from Valensole in the direction of Puimoisson, you just simply need to follow the D8 road until you reach the above coordinates. You will find a tiny house in the middle of the field but since it’s in a valley, you will barely see its top from the road. We almost missed it because of this so trust me, the house is there, even if you can barely see it!

The lavender field is huge and the tiny house is located almost in the middle so in order to get closer, you need to walk a lot between the flowers. This field is really different from Lavandes Angelevin as the rows are much closer to each other and the bushes are bigger, therefore it’s much harder to walk between the rows. Please be really careful where you step and don’t damage the lavenders!

Although you can visit this field basically any time of the day, I recommend going there for sunrise! It’s incredible to see how fast the colors are changing once the sun hits the lavenders, coming from blue to pink and then vibrant purple.

If you’re lucky, you can even spot hot air balloons on the sky! Usually the balloons depart from Riez but their routes are not always the same and they are not flying every day either. We arrived to the field around 6am and spotted the balloons around 7am. I didn’t want to believe my eyes first and when I noticed that they are flying in our direction I was jumping out of my skin!

Bonus tip: If you’re ready to leave this beautiful field, continue driving on the D6 road in the direction of Puimoisson. Right after the lavender field ends, you will find a sage field in its place. It’s really beautiful and the two fields are really close to each other so it’s perfect for taking some photos as well.

Stone house with mountains in the background

Coordinates on Google Maps: 43.851485 6.110340

You will find another stone house in the middle of this lavender field but it’s completely different than the previous one. The field is located 20 km from Valensole, along the D953 road between Puimoisson and Riez. If you’re coming from Valensole, you simply need to follow the D8 road (same direction as to the tiny house in the valley) then take a right turn to the D953 road and stop at the coordinates I gave you above.

If you’re an early bird, the best time to visit this field is at sunrise as the sun is rising behind the stone house and the mountains. The lavender rows are not so close to each other so it’s easy to walk between them and since this field is not so popular and quite far away from Valensole (let alone Manosque), chances are high that you will have it all to yourself!

Tips for taking photos in the lavender fields

Even if you’re not a professional photographer, I’m sure you will feel the urge to take a million photos at the lavender fields. Trust me, nobody will blame you, it’s just so picture perfect! I will share you a few important tips below regarding taking photos in the lavender fields.

How to take photos on the lavender fields

As I mentioned before, you will find many lavender fields around Valensole and they are free to visit so whenever you find a field where you would like to take some photos, just park nearby and walk to the field. It’s quite easy to walk inside the fields because the lavenders are organized in rows and you can easily walk between them.

Please make sure not to damage the lavender while you’re in the field! Try to walk only between the rows and do not step on the lavender. The surface between the rows is rocky so forget about your high heels and only wear flats for your own safety.

I hope it goes without saying, but do no pick any lavenders from the field! If you want to have a bouquet of lavender as a prop for your photos, you can buy it in basically any shop near the fields or in the towns (it usually costs around 3 EUR).

Everything you need to know about bees and spiders

Since you’re basically visiting a huge flower field, be prepared to share it with millions of bees! Yes, they are really everywhere but since they’re busy collecting pollens from the lavenders, they will not bother you (if you don’t bother them). So as a general rule of thumb, try to leave them alone and you will be fine.

However, accidents can still happen so if you’re allergic to bee sting make sure to have proper medication with you! Even if you’re not allergic, it’s best to be prepared. My boyfriend (who is not allergic to bee sting) also got stung by bees on his ankle one evening. First we thought it was a mosquito sting but in the next morning his ankles were already swollen and he could barely walk. Of course you can find many pharmacies in the area as well so if it happens to you and you don’t have any medication with you, go there immediately!

If you’re afraid of bees, the best thing you can do is to visit the lavender fields early in the morning or late in the evening when the bees are not active. You will still need to face a few spiders and other insects but since they are there during the day as well, it doesn’t make any difference.

Best time to take photos on the lavender fields

If you want to take some epic photos on the lavender fields, you need to be aware of your timing. It’s quite hard to shoot there during the day because the weather is usually really hot, the light is harsh, not to mention the million other tourist flocking to the fields. So what can you do? Wake up for sunrise!

I know it sounds mad to wake up at the crack of dawn on your vacation but believe me, it’s so worth it! You need to experience it at least once while you’re visiting the lavender fields in Provence. The sunrise is around 6am and I recommend being on the fields at least 15 minutes before that. The light is changing really quick and you don’t want to miss that! You will not only have the perfect lights but you will have the fields all to yourself (except a few other photographers) and the bees are still not active in the morning so that’s another big advantage!

Another great time for shooting is sunset. The lighting is beautiful as well, but there will be a lot more other people on the fields so it’s not always easy to shoot. The sun is setting around 9.20pm and if you don’t want to miss the golden hour, you will need to be at the fields around 8pm.

Best camera equipment to take photos on the lavender fields

If you have a professional camera, definitely bring it to the lavender fields! But don’t worry, even if you don’t have a camera you will be able to take amazing pictures with your phone as well. Although I mainly use my camera for taking photos, I also took a few shots with my phone and they turned out amazing. Just look at these photos below, they were all taken on my iPhone XS and edited on the free Lightroom mobile app on my phone.

Back to the camera, if you have a normal everyday zoom lens, that will be perfect for the job. However, if you have a telephoto lens, definitely put it in your camera bag! We just purchased our Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 lens a few weeks before visiting the lavender fields in Provence and we ended up using it 90% of the time. Below you can see two of my favourite photos we shot with this lens! If you want to read more about what is in our camera bag, check out my detailed post about our travel photography gear.

How to use a drone on the lavender fields

You can also use your drone on the lavender fields but there is only one little problem with that: bees don’t like drones and they will attack it the second you start flying. Of course they can’t really do any damage in your drone but on the other hand, the propellers can hurt the poor bees so please try to avoid that. The bees are not active early in the morning and late in the evening so if you want to fly your drone, this is the perfect time for that.

Best places to visit in Provence other than the lavender fields

If you’re visiting Provence in the lavender season, you will probably spend most of your time in the fields. However, if you need a change of scenery, Provence has many more to offer! There are many cute towns and other natural wonders near the lavender fields so if you have some extra time, try to visit a few of them on your trip.

Roussillon

Roussillon is one of the cutest towns in the area. Although it’s quite far away from Valensole (it takes around 1.5 hours to get there by car), it’s well worth the detour! It’s full of pastel colored houses and cobble stoned streets, it totally feels like walking in a fairytale town. Roussillon is surrounded by a beautiful countryside and it’s also famous for the huge red cliffs and ochre quarries.

Gordes

Gordes is another fairytale town close to Roussillon. Since it only takes 15 minutes to reach Gordes from Roussillon, it makes sense to visit both on the same day. If you don’t have time to properly explore Gordes, you can also just visit the ‘Town View Point Gordes‘ where you can have a panoramic view over the town and the surrounding area.

Sénanque Abbey

If you have more time after visiting Roussillon and Gordes, you can also pay a visit to the Sénanque Abbey which is located 10 minutes from Gordes. The abbey is surrounded by lavender fields so it’s really picturesque and you can also go inside the abbey as well (a ticket costs 8 EUR per person for a guided tour and 9.5 EUR per person for a non-guided tour).

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is part of the Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon and it’s listed as one of the most beautiful village of France. The town is really charming and since it’s located only 35 minutes from Valensole by car, it’s absolutely worth visiting!

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

If you’re already visiting Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, it’s worth to take a detour on your way back to Valensole and drive by the gorgeous lake of St. Croix. You will find a cute little village called Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon nestled on a hillside on the shores, it looks so picturesque! There are many beaches on the shores so you can take a dip in the lake as well.

Gorges du Verdon

Gorges du Verdon is the deepest gorge in France and it’s an amazing place to visit for outdoor lovers. You can swim in the crystal clear waters, rent a boat or a kayak or just enjoy a picnic on the shores.

Salin de Giraud

Did you know that you can find pink lakes in France? Yes, plural! Salins D’Auiges Mortes is the most famous one but it can only be visited by train and it’s usually very crowded. Thanks to Hanna from @solarpowerblonde we found out that there is another hidden pink lake in the area called Salin de Giraud.

It takes more than 2 hours to reach it by car from Valensole so it’s quite far away but it’s so worth the time! Personally we visited it right after arriving to the airport in Marseille and went to Valensole after that.

The pink lakes are basically man-made salt pans and the pink color is caused by a certain type of algae. They are scattered around a huge area and I’ve heard stories from other people that they couldn’t visit the lakes because a security guard didn’t allow them to enter. We didn’t have any problems like this at the lake we visited, we just simply parked the car and walked 5-10 minutes to reach the lakes. These are the exact coordinates if you want to visit the same place: 43.400981 4.723459

Map of the places to visit in Provence

In the below map you can find all the best places to visit in Provence that was covered in this article. You can easily save it to your phone by clicking on the bracket in the upper right corner and the map will open up in your Google Maps app. Super convenient, right?

Final thoughts

Visiting the lavender fields in Provence is a real bucket list experience. I hope you will be able to see it with your own eyes at least once because it’s really magical! I also hope you liked this guide and it will help you planning your own trip.

If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Are you still dreaming about visiting the lavender fields in Provence or have you already been there? Let me know in the comments!

xoxo, Kriszti

What camera gear do we use?

Camera body: Sony Alpha 7 III
Standard zoom lens: TAMRON 28-75 mm f/2.8
Wide angle lens: Sony FE 16-35mm f/4
Telephoto lens: TAMRON 70-180 mm f/2.8
Drone: DJI Mavic 2 Pro
GoPro: GoPro Hero 7
Camera Bag: Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L
Tripod: Manfrotto Compact Action

If you want to read more about what is in our camera bag, check out my detailed post about our travel photography gear!

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40 Beautiful Fairytale Castles in Europe You Can’t Miss

I don’t know about you, but I was always obsessed with fairytale castles. Whenever I’m visiting a new destination I always look for castles, there is just something magical about them! There are many beautiful castles scattered around Europe so no matter where you go, you will almost always find a new castle to visit. Here’s a list about the most beautiful fairytale castles in Europe you just simply can’t miss!

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Fairytale castles in Germany

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

When thinking about fairytale castles in Europe, Neuschwanstein Castle is usually the first one that comes to mind. If it looks familiar to you it’s not a coincidence – legend has it that Neuschwanstein Castle was the main source of inspiration for Walt Disney when creating Cinderella’s castle in the 1950 movie. The castle also looks very similar to the Disney logo shown before every Disney film.

The construction of Neuschwanstein Castle began in 1868 on the request of King Ludwig II. It was originally designed to have more than 200 rooms but when the king died in 1886 the funds of the project were also cut and the castle has never been fully finished. Two months after the king’s death the castle was opened up to the public and it’s been the most visited landmark in Germany ever since.

You can easily visit Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich or Innsbruck as a day trip but you can also spend a few nights around the castle in Schwangau or Hohenschwangau. The castle sits atop a hill in the foot of the Bavarian Alps, it takes around 30-40 minutes to reach the castle by foot. If you’re looking for the best viewpoints at Neuschwanstein Castle, check out Mary’s Bridge (Marienbrücke) where you will get a full panoramic view over the castle.

Although hiking around the castle is completely free, you need to pay 13 EUR (14.5 USD) for a ticket if you want to go inside. It’s important to know that the castle can only be visited with a guided tour and since its construction was never finished, only a couple of rooms can be visited. Even if you decide not to go in, visiting Neuschwanstein Castle and hiking in the area will be a memorable experience!

2. Hohenzollern Castle

Recommended by Diana from Travels in Poland

A beautiful castle high atop a hill in southern Germany, Hohenzollern Castle is a remarkable and well preserved castle among the beautiful German landscape. The castle was the ancestral seat for the House of Hohenzollern once and it has actually been destroyed and rebuilt several times as it was part of several sieges (it was also a refuge at one point). Hohenzollern castle changed hands a few times over the years and it was also a residence for a crown prince once.

Today, the castle is considered as one of the most beautiful castles in Germany and some even speculate that its currently fortified state is among the best, which would align with the fact that the castle was once a fortress. Even though some damage was sustained to the castle during rare earthquakes, the cost of the renovations are able to be paid from admission fees.

To get to Hohenzollern, it is about a 45 minute drive from Stuttgart, which has its own airport and also a major autobahn running south of the city. If you want to visit the castle from Stuttgart, it’s best to drive and park at the lower parking area where you can purchase tickets at the visitor’s center. From there you can walk or take a bus to the top.

Tours are highly recommended in order to be able to get into many of the rooms of the castle. The tours are available in German but they can also be pre-arranged in English. It is best to spend at least a half day at the castle. The views from the castle onto the hills below are quite beautiful and very peaceful for visitors.

3. Burg Eltz

Recommended by Becki from Meet Me In Departures

If you’re looking for the most quintessential fairytale castle, then it’s undoubtedly Burg Eltz. This was by far the favourite castle I visited during my German fairytale castle road trip. Situated in the bottom of a valley (I know right, castles are usually on top of a hill), it’s perched on a rock, surrounded by ancient forests and rolling hills. Honestly, it’s so pretty that it looks like it’s been plucked right out of any fairytale story.

Part of the reason the castle is in a valley and that it has so many original features is that it was never used for defence. It was a home and on the whole, a peaceful place. The castle is over 850 years old and miraculously been in the same family since it was built. Each generation added their own slant on the design, so when you’re looking at the castle you can clearly see the different architecture styles which spread over 500 years. The different styles blend seamlessly together.

To go inside the courtyard and walk around the woodlands surrounding the castle is free, although if you want to go inside the castle you have to pay 11 EUR (12.5 USD) for a ticket. Tours alternate between German and English and they usually take just under an hour. You can easily spend half a day at Burg Eltz, exploring the grounds surrounding the castle and the woodland trails.

For a bit of an insider tip, there are two routes you can take from the car park area to get to the castle. The scenic walk goes through the woods, however, the view of the castle is blocked by trees. The better way to view Eltz Castle is by walking down the tarmac road which the shuttle bus takes. Not so many people take this route, but this is where you get the stunning panoramic view of the castle in the valley.

Fairytale castles in Luxemburg

4. Vianden Castle

Recommended by Margherita from The Crowded Planet

There are many castles in Luxembourg that can be visited, but my favourite is definitely Vianden, located in the town of the same name in the northern part of the country, close to the German border. Out of all the castles I’ve seen in Luxembourg, Vianden is the one that comes closer to the fairytale image that one normally associates with castles.

Vianden is a very elaborate castle, located on a hilltop and built over a period of 300 years. The core of the castle was erected in Romanesque style, with later Gothic additions. The castle’s heyday were the 13^th and 14^th century, when it was inhabited by wealthy local lords – it then fell into disrepair and was only restorated to its former glory about 30 years ago.

It’s definitely worth visiting outside as well as inside. You can reach it by walking through Vianden and from the top there’s a wonderful view over the town and surrounding hills. The interiors have also been perfectly restored – one of the spaces I liked best was the Byzantine gallery on the second floor, with six beautiful trefoiled windows overlooking the valley.

If you happen to be in Luxembourg in summer, try to visit Vianden Castle in occasion of the Medieval festival – the castle truly comes to life with falconry demonstrations, fire-eaters and other fun performances! It’s worth to dedicate at least half a day to visit the castle, since there’s a lot to explore. It’s about 50 km from Luxembourg city, and you can drive there in about 40 minutes or get there by train and bus in just over an hour.

Fairytale castles in France

5. Palace of Versailles

Recommended by Daneen from Queensland Camping

The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous landmarks in France. Visitors are not only drawn to the power and affluence the palace alludes but how well history has been preserved there. The Palace of Versailles started as a small hunting lodge built by King Louis the XIII in late 1623. In 1631, he decided to rebuild the lodge – the construction was completed in 1634 which is the basis of the Palace we know today. The King’s son, Louis XIV extended the palace further when he installed the Court and government there in 1682.

With the detail and conservation of 60,000 artworks, the Palace serves as a museum today and it illustrates 5 centuries of the French History. There are over 2,300 rooms in the Palace and it has been listed as a World Heritage Site for 30 years now. Take your time to explore as many rooms as you can and imagine the opulent life of King Louis XVI and his wife, Marie Antoinette, who were the last Royals to live there before the French Revolution.

When planning your day, make sure to allocate enough time to visit the Estate of Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet as well. It’s worth to spend some time strolling through the monumental and the explicitly well manicured gardens that will allow you to feel like you are in another century surrounded by sculptures and water fountains. To make your visit easier, download the free Palace of Versailles app on your phone!

Visiting the Palace of Versailles is one of the best day trips from Paris as it’s quite close to the city. Trains run frequently between Paris and the Palace of Versailles, the journey takes around 40-45 minutes in one way.

6. Château de Chantilly

Recommended by Chrysoula from Historic European Castles

Château de Chantilly is a fascinating castle for those wishing to visit a fairytale destination while in France and it can easily be reached on a day trip from Paris. Located just 50 km from the city, Château de Chantilly is best reached by train from the central Gare du Nord station with the journey taking around 30 minutes.

Travellers will need to book their ticket from Gare du Nord to the Chantilly-Gouvieux station, from where you will need to walk around 15 minutes to reach the chateau. There are even combi tickets available that offer train tickets plus entrance to the chateau and these can be purchased from one of the ticket offices at the Gare du Nord station.

The original chateau on this site was built for Duke Anne de Montmorency in the 16th century but was unfortunately destroyed during the French Revolution. The site then went through a period of change, with the remains of the castle being repaired by Louis Henri II, then being owned by the English bank Coutts, before finally being entirely rebuilt, between 1875 and 1882, by Henri d’Orléans, Duc d’Aumale.

This last iteration of the Domaine de Chantilly now comprises of Le Petit Château, Le Grand Château, the Musée Condé and the Chantilly Racecourse as well as well-manicured gardens, lakes and walkways which make it a beautiful place to explore.

7. Château de Chambord

Recommended by Christine from French Travel Guides

Among French castles, Château de Chambord stands out as the fanciest and probably the grandest. Unlike most castles that boast of defensive structures and doubles as fortresses, Château Chambord’s features are mostly purely decorative. It is the largest château in the Loire Valley and has quite a fascinating history.

In lieu of fortifications, the castle has manicured gardens, fountains and other decorative features. This Renaissance castle is made with white limestone and surrounded by water on one side. It has beautifully landscaped gardens which is a product of its intriguing history.

One of its architectural highlights though is a double helix staircase supposedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci. The castle has 83 more staircases, 800 sculpted columns, 11 different towers, 3 types of chimneys, 440 rooms, and 282 fireplaces. That’s a lot, but those are among the reasons that make Château Chambord one of the best places to visit in Loire Valley.

Inside the castle, the rooms that are open to the public are styled as if it is still inhabited. It features period furniture and decor, that says a lot about the era when it was built. Château de Chambord is one of those castles in France that’s a definite must-visit.

You need to spend at least 3 hours in order to enjoy the castle so if you are taking a day trip from Paris, make sure to arrive before 2 pm so you have ample time before it closes at 5 pm. To get here from Paris, you can take a train (TER 14033 or TER 16813) from Paris Austerlitz to Blois. From Blois, you can take the Remi Bus Line 02 to Chambord Le Marronnier Chateau, then just walk towards the entrance.

8. Château de Fontainebleau

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

Château de Fontainebleau is a beautiful castle located in the town of Fontainebleau, 55 km south-east of Paris, and surrounded by the scenic Fontainebleau forest. Built in the 12^th century, Fontainebleau was a royal castle, home of the French Kings, and favorite hunting place for 8 centuries. Unlike Château de Versailles, its famous counterpart near Paris, Fontainebleau hosted all the French Kings from Louis VII to the last Kings and Emperors of France.

The current Château de Fontainebleau is a mix of architectural styles, being Renaissance and Classicism the most dominant ones. The castle is a succession of elegant rooms and grand halls with amazing decoration. Take the time to read the information panels, there’s a bit of the history of France in most of these rooms. The most impressive spaces are the Gallery of Francis, the Ballroom, and the Chapel of the Trinity, all richly decorated.

Château de Fontainebleau is also famous for its impressive gardens, with different landscape styles. The Grand Parterre, is the largest in Europe and it was King Louis XIV’s main intervention in Fontainebleau.

Do you need more reasons to visit this fantastic château? The entrance to the castle is free the first Sunday of the month (except the months of July and August) and there are no waiting lines! Also, it is very easy to visit from Paris by train so there are no excuses to go to Fontainebleau.

Fairytale castles in Belgium

9. Gravensteen Castle

Recommended by Babs from Next Stop Belgium

Gravensteen Castle in Ghent, Belgium is a pretty spectacular castle thanks to its location straight in the middle of the city centre. As the third-largest city in Belgium, Ghent is well worth a weekend visit or at least a day trip from Brussels, Bruges or Antwerp. There are many things to do and see in this historical university city, but the Gravensteen Castle might be one of the most impressive sights.

Count Philips of Alsace, had the castle built in 1180 to show of his power and keep control over the people. After many centuries of repression and torture, Gravensteen Castle was sold in the late 18^th century and turned into a cotton factory, housing about 50 families who worked there. When they left, the castle was ready to be demolished but the tide turned in the early 20^th century when the castle was renovated for the 1913 World Expo that was held in Ghent.

Visitors can discover the gatehouse, the keep, the ramparts, the count’s residence and the stables but most noteworthy on a visit to the Gravensteen is the unique collection of torture equipment. The entry to the Gravensteen is 12 EUR per person. Also, make sure to grab the free audio guide (also available in sign language!) where Ghentian comedian Wouter Deprez will tell you more about the castle’s history with some funny anecdotes.

Fairytale castles in the Netherlands

10. Castle de Haar

Recommended by Maartje from The Orange Backpack

Castle De Haar has 200 rooms, making it one of the biggest castles in the Netherlands and also one of the most beautiful fairytale castles in Europe. Much of what’s left today is the work of Etienne van Zuylen who found himself some resources to restore the family heirloom by marrying a wealthy daughter of the De Rothschild family. The couple contracted the famous Dutch architect Cuypers, who also designed the Rijksmuseum and central station in Amsterdam. Cuypers created the impressive Main Hall – it’s style is somewhat different than you might expect from a castle, it’s more like a cathedral with its dramatic Gothic arches and statues.

The Van Zuylen family continued living at the castle, but from the 60s on it was only used during the September months. This month used to be the highlight on the Dutch social calender with the Van Zuylens hosting big parties, entertaining famous guests like Coco Chanel, Brigitte Bardot, Yves Saint Laurant and the Dutch royal family. The Van Zuylen family still uses the castle every September, as was stipulated when the castle was handed over to the newly founded Foundation.

When visiting the castle, make sure you have time to visit the landscaped garden as well. The castle grounds are included in your ticket price. De Haar is close to the city of Utrecht which is definitely worth a visit as well with its Amsterdam like canals and architecture. Note that you might come across the names Haarzuylens and Slot Zuylen. Haarzuylens is just another name for De Haar, but Slot Zuylen is another well-known castle in the same area.

11. Muiderslot

Recommended by Cosette from KarsTravels

Muiderslot is one of the oldest and best preserved medieval castles in the Netherlands. The castle is surrounded with water and gardens, adding further to the fairytale atmosphere when visiting.

The castle was built in 1285 in commision of Count Floris V. When he was murdered in 1296 his castle was destroyed as well, but in 1370 the original Muiderslot was restored and expanded with a residential wing. Since 1878 Muiderslot serves as a national museum – in fact, it was one of the first national museums in the Netherlands.

You should spend at least 3 hours wandering around the castle with a free audioguide to discover how they opposed the enemy and how life was in a castle in general. There’s a special scavenger hunt for kids through the castle and the grounds and in the weekends and on school holidays there’s a falconer, who gives explanations and demonstrations on the mighty birds of prey. You can find many forgotten vegetables and herbs in the beautiful castle gardens as well, which is used for painting, decoration and healing purposes.

Muiderslot is located in the town of Muiden. When arriving by, car take exit 3 Muiden/Weesp on the A1. There are some paid parking spots close to the castle but further away you will find 3 free parking lots as well. You can also take a train from Amsterdam or Utrecht to Weesp Station, from where you can take the bus line 110 which stops at Muiden Centrum. After that you need to walk 10 minutes to reach the castle.

Fairytale castles in England

12. Windsor Castle

Recommended by Stephanie from History Fangirl

Windsor Castle is the longest-inhabited castle in Europe, and it dates all the way back to the Normans who ruled in the 11^th and 12^th centuries. The castle is one of the main residences of the Queen of England, and it contains absolutely breathtaking treasures of English artwork. You can tell if the queen is in residence by the flag flying above the castle. You might be lucky enough to visit when she’s at home!

Essentially every famous portrait of British monarchs (think the kind that makes the covers of biographies) is hanging on the walls here so you will get to see many of them during your visit. The castle has been home to some significant historic events as well as lighter moments in Royal history, including the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

It’s easy to get to Windsor from London by train, or you can go on a guided tour that includes pickup at your hotel. If you come on your own, make sure to spend time walking around the village. The village grew up around the castle and there are wonderful historic pubs and shops to see in the town as well. You can also walk over to Eton to see the famous school town.

13. Leeds Castle

Recommended by Rob from Roam Yonder

Few castles in England remain as accessible and active as Leeds Castle. Nestled away in the Kent countryside, Leeds Castle is open all year round to visitors whether visiting the castle or enjoying the many walks around the gardens. It also hosts events across the year including a spectacular fireworks show, Christmas Market and a series of summer concerts. The castle and the grounds are also a popular wedding venue.

Leeds Castle has had many identities since its construction was started in 1119. When Eleanor of Castile bought Leeds Castle in 1278 it began both the long royal ownership of the Castle and its association with six different Queens of England. Between 1517-1523 the infamous Henry VIII transformed Leeds Castle from a fortified stronghold to a luxurious palace. In 1552, after nearly 300 years of royal ownership, Leeds Castle was given to Anthony St. Leger by King Edward VI for his service to Henry VIII.

From there the Castle passed around to many different owners until 1823 when it experienced it’s latest reinvention. In 1925 the Castle was bought by Lady Baillie who would become the last owner of Leeds Castle. When war broke out in 1939, Leeds Castle played its role. Many Soldiers evacuated from Dunkirk were sent to recuperate at Leeds Castle. Weapons research was secretly carried out in the grounds, including emergency flame weapons to counter the feared German invasion.

After Lady Baillie passed away in 1974 the Castle passed to the Leeds Castle Foundation. Over the years Leeds Castle became a popular tourist spot welcoming over 600,000 visitors a year. You can visit the castle and walk the surrounding grounds in half a day but to really experience the castle you should visit during one of the special events held throughout the year.

14. Barnard Castle

Recommended by Sarah from A Social Nomad

Sitting high on a rocky outcrop above the River Tees in North East England, Barnard Castle nowadays serves as a market town. The castle was built in the 12^th century and was named after its founder, Bernard de Baliol. Today, the castle is a focal point of the town, especially during special events throughout the year. You will find an annual meet during the Whitsunday weekend and an increasingly popular 1940’s themed event at the end of June.

The castle today is mostly ruined, but you can still spot Richard III’s emblem carved into a stone in the castle (he was once an owner). There’s a sensory garden inside the castle and a guide book with further details on its history. Spend perhaps 90 minutes exploring the castle and then take the Blue Plaque walking tour of the town – famous visitors include Oliver Cromwell and Charles Dickens who took inspiration for his novels from here!

Many of the businesses and buildings that surround the castle are built into the walls. Try one of the local pubs with beer gardens that back onto the walls of the castle for a taste of both local food and drink – we particularly recommend the Old Well Pub on the “Bank”.

There is a regular market on Wednesdays in the town and you can also visit the monthly farmers markets. Other great things to do include walking along the River Tees and visiting the stunning Bowes Museum, a French Chateau in the heart of the North East of England that is not to be missed while you are here.

15. Alnwick Castle

Recommended by Vicky from Day Out In England

Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is one of the most beautiful fairytale castles in Europe. It was used in the first and second Harry Potter movies as a filming location – you will recognise the Outer Bailey from Harry’s lesson with Madam Hooch. The courtyards and baileys were also used as a backdrop for some of the school scenes. The most famous scene filmed at Alnwick Castle was the one where Harry and Ron crashed the Weasley’s flying car into the Inner Bailey.

Thanks to the notoriety of the films, Alnwick Castle runs regular Harry Potter inspired events to make the castle even more magical. It’s one of the best days out for Harry Potter lovers in England!

Even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan, Alnwick Castle is a stunning place to visit. You can wander the state rooms, check out the courtyard and enjoy an afternoon tea on site. Enjoy a tour and see the changing exhibitions too. It’s the second largest inhabited castle in England, so there’s lots to see and do here!

Depending on your interests, you can spend anything from a few hours to all day at the castle. They have a lot of special events here, especially over the summer, so keep an eye on the listings. Unfortunately you can’t stay in the castle, but there are some great hotels within walking distance in Alnwick.

Fairytale castles in Scotland

16. Dunnottar Castle

Recommended by Kathi from Watch Me See

Dunnottar Castle is not only steeped in history, but its breathtaking location also makes it one of the most romantic places to visit Scotland. Located near the picturesque seaside town of Stonehaven on Scotland’s east coast, Dunnottar Castle is the perfect place to watch the sunset as it dips the historic stone walls of the castle in all shades of gold, red and yellow. It’s mesmerising! Many people even come here to renew their vows.

The castle sits atop the tall cliffs of a headland and is surrounded by the sea on three sides. What once fortified the castle to effectively against attackers, now makes for breathtaking views all around and spectacular photo opportunities. Today, visitors can reach the castle via a staircase, first down, then up – it’s hard work, but worth the effort.

Dunnottar Castle is not just pretty to look at, it also has a rich history that is tied up in rivalries and conflicts among ruling families and movements. William Wallace (you know, from Braveheart) stormed the castle in the 13^th century and is said to have burnt the English soldiers stationed here alive in the castle chapel. Many centuries later, Mary Queen of Scots visited the beautiful seaside castle, and in the 17^th century, the castle became instrumental in the religious-political conflict surrounding the Covenanters.

Dunnottar Castle is a popular stop on the Aberdeenshire Coastal Trail as well as the Scottish Castle Trail, which connects 19 fairytale castles in the Aberdeenshire region. I recommend spending at least one day in nearby Stonehaven. Visit the castle during the day, join a boat trip along the coast for a change of perspective, and walk back out to the castle for sunset (takes approx. 40 minutes along a scenic coastal trail, one-way). Stonehaven and Dunnottar Castle are also a great day trip from Aberdeen, just 25 km up the coast (by car or by train).

17. Dunrobin Castle

Recommended by Laura from Spilling Life Tea

Located in the Scottish Highlands, Dubrobin Castle is over 700 years old and holds a vast and varied history. Dunrobin was built by the Sutherlands – one of the most powerful families in Scotland – and the Duke of Sutherland has lived in the castle since 1235. The family adapted and renovated the castle over time as their wealth and power grow in the land.

The family is known to be responsible for the highland clearances where they forcibly removed highlanders from their homes to make way for sheep. This is a huge part of Scottish history and maybe the reason you have Scottish family connections. The highlanders had to find places to live and they travelled far and wind to do so from America to New Zealand to find a new home.

In 1845, the castle was remodelled by Sir Charles Barry, who was inspired by Queen Victoria’s Residence at Balmoral. The interior of the castle was destroyed by a fire in 1915 so the interior you see today is the work of Sir Robert Lorimer.

The white towering turrets and the gorgeous location makes Dunrobin Castle one of the most beautiful fairytale castles in Europe and you definitely need to visit it if you’re in Scotland! The castle is located outside the village of Golspie, 85 km north of Inverness. There is a train station near the castle but driving there is the best way to enjoy the scenery on your way to the castle.

Dunrobin offers tours of the castle museum, the gardens and falconry. You will need around 3-4 hours for a full visit to Dunrobin but you can easily spend more time in the beautifully manicured gardens. Don’t forget to visit the tea room for the best in local highland cuisine!

18. Eilean Donan Castle

Recommended by Kat from Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for beautiful castles in Europe, you need to head to Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland. This incredible castle stands on the shores of a place where three lochs meet – Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh. The castle is located in the western Highlands, very close the the bridge which leads to the Isle of Skye, making it one of the most popular stops on a Scotland road trip itinerary.

The nice thing about this castle is you can stop for 10 minutes take some incredible photos and then be on your way (we also recommend the cafe in the lay-by across the bridge, which is perfect for coffee or breakfast). However, if you have more time, you can also stop and see the inside of the castle.

The castle was built in the 13^th Century but was destroyed in the 1700s during the Jacobite uprising. It was in ruins for 200 years but it was mostly reconstructed in the early 1900s and is now open to the public almost all year long (it is closed in January and during Christmas.)

If you really want to treat yourself, the castle has beautiful apartments which you can stay in. Who doesn’t want to sleep in a proper castle and enjoy the views over those lochs?

Fairytale castles in Portugal

19. Pena Palace

Recommended by Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

The Cultural Landscape of Sintra is a magnificent place, a magical town about an hour outside of Lisbon. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and includes the magnificent Pena Palace, the Palace of Sintra and the Moorish Castle. Pena Palace is the most colourful and famous of the castles in Sintra, and the one you have probably seen on the cover of guide books.

This fairy-tale castle combines brightly coloured red and yellow walls, vault arches, and medieval and Islamic elements and is one of the best examples of 19^th Century Romanticist architecture that exists today. The current castle was commissioned by King Ferdinand and built between 1842 and 1854, although a chapel has been on that same site since the Middle Ages. It sits high on a hill above Sintra, visible for miles around, and on clear days you can even spot the colourful towers from Lisbon!

Pena Palace is a popular place to visit, so plan to arrive first thing to avoid the crowds. Most people visit Sintra on a day trip from Lisbon, but there is plenty to do here and you can easily fill two or three days. Spending the extra time here means you can properly explore Pena Palace and the extensive gardens. Bring a picnic and take your time!

You can either buy a ticket to just visit the outside areas of the palace, including the palace terraces and gardens, or pay an extra cost to go inside as well. Personally, I preferred exploring outside, and found more than enough to keep me entertained. Just don’t miss the gorgeous views from the terraces!

20. Belém Tower

Recommended by Paula from Paula Pins The Planet

The Belém Tower, or Torre de Belém in Portuguese, is one of the most incredible and well-preserved buildings from the medieval period, also a national symbol in Lisbon, Portugal. The construction started in 1514, and finished five years later and it is a masterpiece of the Manueline architectural style.

The tower was used to protect the entrance to Tegu River from the ocean, and with the development of the times, Belém Tower has been used for different purposes. In the next few centuries, it was used as a customs house, a telegraph station, a lighthouse, and a storage room transformed into a dungeon as a prison.

It has 5 floors and you can climb up the 92 steps with shoulder-width narrow to the roof terrace – it even has a green light/red light system to get up and down to help to control the human traffic. The highlight of Belém Tower is the open terrace at the top, with very detailed and unique architecture, besides the beautiful view. The ground floor once housed the tower’s artillery, with cannons aimed out across the river through the narrow window openings.

Although it looks much larger in photos, the tower is quite small and they only admit a maximum of 120 people inside at a time. It closes at 2pm on Sundays and it is closed on Mondays. It is better to visit when it opens, and for pictures, it is best to visit during the high tide so you don’t get pictures of it surrounded by mudflats.

The Tower is very easy to access. You can take the 15 tram or 714/726 bus, but be aware that the trams get very busy and crowded. It is a very nice area wander around the waterfront and the tower is just walking distance from the Discoveries Monument, Jerónimos Monastery, and the famous bakery Pasteis de Belém.

Fairytale castles in Spain

21. Olvera Castle

Recommended by Joanna from The World In My Pocket

Olvera is one of those little hidden places in the South of Spain, a beautiful white town on top of a hill with a gorgeous castle and cathedral dominating the skyline. One of the best things to do in Olvera is visiting the El Castillo Arabe de Olvera, or otherwise known as Olvera Castle.

The castle dates from the 12^th century and it was built by the Moors as part of the defence of the Emirate of Granada. Conquered in the 13^th century by the Kingdom of Castilla, the castle has been rebuilt by the Christians, in a different style. However, a lot of the Moorish elements still remain, which make the castle a very interesting visit.

A ticket to visit the castle in Olvera costs only 2 EUR (2.2 USD) and provides access to both the building and the museum. The most exciting part of the castle is the tower, reached through a very narrow staircase. From the top you can admire a 360 degrees panorama and you can see for miles the colourful landscape of Andalucia.

The castle has an irregular shape because it has been built on a cliff. It may be a small castle, but it is maintained in a very good shape. The interior yard, inside the castle’s walls, features a medieval well next to the gates for the old prison. Since Olvera is a small town (easy reachable from Malaga), there are no big hotels here, just small individual B&Bs.

Fairytale castles in Switzerland

22. Chillon Castle

Recommended by Nisha from Nerdy Footsteps

Chillon castle stands proudly on a rocky islet the shore of Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Leman. It has been around for over 1000 years and is the most visited castle in Switzerland.

The lake around the castle also makes a natural moat, making it difficult to attack it. It is not surprising that the Chillon Castle is one of the only medieval castles in Europe that was never captured in a seize. Its strategic position on Lake Geneva gave the inhabitants control over important trade routes from Italy through the St. Bernhard’s Pass to the north. The highlight of the castle is its dark dungeons that were used to hold the prisoners.

Fun fact: in spite of the dark history of the castle, Chillon inspired the castle in the Disney animated film The Little Mermaid. Thanks to its cylindrical towers and gorgeous location it’s easy to see why it is one of the most beautiful fairytale castles in Europe!

You should spend at least 2-3 hours at the castle and it’s also worth having a tour or hike on the swiss wine trail through the Lavaux vineyards when visiting the castle, which is one of the local’s favorite things to do in this area.

Chillon Castle is around 40 km east of Lausanne and 3 km east of Montreux. The best way to reach the castle is to take a boat or ferry from Montreaux, Lausanne or Geneva. An alternate would be to have a nice 40 minutes stroll from Montreaux, which is well connected to other neighboring cities like Lausanne, Geneva, and Bern.

23. Thun Castle

Recommended by Carolyn from Holidays to Switzerland

If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland and are looking for a beautiful castle to visit, look no further than Thun Castle. Located in the medieval town of Thun, Thun Castle dates back to the 12^th century and is easily recognisable thanks to its four distinct turreted towers.

Built purely as an administrative castle (no one actually lived there), today the castle houses a museum spread over its five floors. As you visit each floor, you’ll learn about the history of Thun thanks to the interesting interactive displays (in English, French and German).

The castle’s interior has been well restored and it really gives you an insight into what life was like for the ruling Dukes in the Middle Ages. The dungeon and medieval Knight’s Hall are two of the highlights and the four corner towers, which can all be climbed, offer breathtaking views of Lake Thun and the Bernese Alps.

Thun is just 25 minutes by train from the Swiss capital, Bern, and 30 minutes from Interlaken, and frequent services operate each day. The castle, which overlooks the city and lake, can be reached on foot from Thun Old Town in around 15 minutes via a footpath and the steep castle stairs. Entry to Thun Castle is just 10 Swiss francs (10.4 USD) and you should allow at least two hours for your visit.

Fairytale castles in Italy

24. Castello Sforzesco

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Although Milan is mostly famous for the majestic Duomi di Milano (Milan Cathedral) and the beautiful Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II passage, if you have more than just one day in Milan it’s worth to check out Castello Sforzesco as well.

The castle grounds were once home to a fortification inhabited by the Visconti lords, which was destroyed in the 15^th century. A few years later Francesco Sforza decided to turn it into his princely residence and transformed the ruins of the fortress into a magnificent ducal palace. The new castle was decorated by numerous famous Italian artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Donato Bramante. Later on, the castle was used as a military complex during the Spanish domination, then it was completely restored in the 19^th century and now it’s housing several museums and libraries.

Castello Sforzesco is connected to Parco Sempione (one of the largest parks in the city) and it’s easily accessible by a 15 minute walk from the Duomo di Milano. Wandering through the castle grounds are completely free but if you want to visit the museums you need to buy an entrance ticket for 5 EUR (5.6 USD).

25. Castel Sant'Angelo

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Rome is often referred as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe thanks to its majestic historical buildings and amazing landmarks. Located on the northern banks of Tiber River, Castel Sant’Angelo is one of the most interesting sights that’s not to be missed when visiting the Eternal City.

The castle was originally built as a monumental tomb in 123 AD by the famous Roman Emperor, Hadrian. During the centuries the castle had several different roles, first it was turned into a military fortress thanks to its strategic location, then it was used as a state prison multiple times before transforming it into a museum in the 20^th century.

Nowadays Castel Sant’Angelo is split into 5 floors, showcasing an extensive collection of weapons, beautifully decorated rooms that functioned as Papal residence and perfectly preserved frescos. You can also find a large terrace on top of the castle from where you can get a great panoramic view over the city.

26. Castello Aragonese

Recommended by Helen from Helen on Her Holidays

Castello Aragonese is on the island of Ischia in the Bay of Naples and is the most popular attraction on the island. It’s on a natural island, connected to the main island by a bridge. Its natural defences have proved attractive to settlers over the last two thousand years – what visitors to Castello Aragonese see today dates back to the 15^th century.

There’s lots to see when you visit Castello Aragonese. After you’ve crossed the bridge, you’ll walk down a tunnel excavated in the rock and then up in a lift to the castle buildings on top of the rock, including a cathedral, several churches, a palace and a prison.

Castello Aragonese was home to a convent of nuns from the order of the Poor Clares for around 200 years. The cloisters are now a pretty garden filled with sculptures, but the nuns’ most interesting legacy is the cemetery. Rather than being buried, their dead bodies were propped up on stone seats underneath the church to decompose. The stone chairs are still there – thankfully the bodies are not!

Elsewhere in the castle you’ll find beautiful gardens, two cafes and stunning views across the island. Most visitors spend around half a day at the castle. Castello Aragonese is in the village of Ischia Ponte, around 3km from the port on Ischia where ferries arrive from Naples and Capri. Taxis are available from the port, or there’s a local bus service between Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte which stops at one end of the bridge.

27. Doge's Palace

Recommended by Matt from It’s All In Italy

The Doge’s Palace in Venice, Italy is a great place to visit as it’s one of the premier landmarks in Venice and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, visited by 1.3 million people annually. It’s one of the top museums and cultural attractions in Italy, founded in 1340, and located in St. Mark’s square.

The palace was the residence of the Doge of the Venice Republic, the supreme ruler, and hosts artworks such as ‘Paradise’ by Tintoretto and other masterpieces by Veronese, Hieronymus Bosch and Vittore Carpaccio. It was also the center of Government of the Venice Republic and also where death sentences were announced!

It’s best to spend a couple of hours here to really absorb the architecture, art and history of this iconic building with either a guided tour or a self-guided walk to take it all in. The best way to get here is by foot as it’s as central as it gets, being in St Mark’s square, but be sure to book online first to reserve your ticket.

Fairytale castles in Slovenia

28. Predjama Castle

Recommended by Dhara from It’s Not About The Miles

Planning a trip to Slovenia? If you enjoy touring old castles, put Predjama Castle on your Slovenia itinerary! You will find Predjama Castle in the Slovenian Karst countryside, under one hour by car from Ljubljana. Along with the nearby Postojna Cave or Skocjan Caves, Predjama Castle makes for a wonderful Caves and Castles day out from Ljubljana or the Slovenian coast.

Predjama Castle is famous as the largest cave castle on the planet. Built into the mouth of a huge cave, part way up a mountain face, the castle defies your imagination as you try to figure out how they could have built it in that impossible place all those years ago.

The castle has a fascinating history as well. In the 15^th century, a robber baron called Erazem used the castle as a hidey-hole while he plundered the wealthy estates in the area. After a long siege by government officials in the area, Erazem was ultimately killed, because one of his servants betrayed his exact location (the bathroom!) to his enemies one day.

You can tour the castle with an admission fee and in the summer months, you can also tour some of the cave tunnels behind the castle. The views from the castle are amazing as well, and the castle makes a great backdrop for amazing photos! A car or a guided tour are the most convenient options for visiting the castle. In season, a shuttle runs between Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, and you can travel by bus to Postojna Cave from other parts of Slovenia.

29. Ljubljana Castle

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Standing on a hill in the heart of the city, Ljubljana Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Slovenian capital. The 900 year old castle has been renovated multiple times through the centuries and is now used as a cultural center boosting several museums, art exhibitions, historical rooms, a puppet theatre and a cafe.

Since it’s located in the middle of the city, Ljubljana Castle is easily accessible. You can choose to take the funicular railway which takes you up to the castle in minutes or you can walk up on the winding staircases surrounding the castle. Once you’re there, don’t forget to check out the Outlook Tower which offers the most beautiful views of Ljubljana!

The castle is open every day with various opening hours during each season. An adult ticket costs 10 EUR (11 USD) without the funicular and 13 EUR (15 USD) including a return funicular fare.

Fairytale castles in Austria

30. Hohensalzburg Fortress

Recommended by Vrushali from Couple of Journeys

Visiting the Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the best things to do in Salzburg. It stands tall on a cliff-top and can be easily spotted from almost every area of the Old Town of Salzburg. The reason why this fortress is so popular is that the appearance of this fortress has remained unchanged as it has never been conquered or attacked. The 900 year old castle prides itself in being the only fully-preserved castle in all of Central Europe.

The Hohensalzburg Fortress was originally built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard I. However, at that time it was a simple building. This building took the form of the enormous fort as it stands today between in the 15^thcentury under Archbishop Leonhard von Keutschach.

Today, the fortress is open to tourists all round the year. There are 3 museums in the fortress area and a typical visit to the Hohensalzburg Fortress could take about 2-3 hours. In addition to the museums, the terrace area of the fortress is a great place to click some stunning panoramic pictures of the city of Salzburg.

The base area of the fortress is situated right in the middle of the Old Town. To reach the fortress, one can either embark on a steep twenty-minute climb or simply take a 1-minute fun ride on the 19^th century funicular. The ticket desk at the base of the fortress can get pretty crowded, therefore it is best to buy the ticket online.

Fairytale castles in Hungary

31. Buda Castle

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Located on the Buda side of the Hungarian capital, Budapest, Buda Castle is one of the most important historical buildings in Hungary. The construction of the castle started in the 14^th century but shortly after it was completed it suffered major damages during the Turkish occupation in the 15-16^th century. The rebuilding and restoration of the castle was only completed in the 19^th century by 2 famous Hungarian architects: Miklos Ybl and Alajos Hauszmann.

The castle building that was once home for the Hungarian kings is now housing two museums: the Hungarian National Gallery and the Budapest History Museum. It’s worth to take a stroll around the castle even if you’re not a museum person as you can get an amazing panoramic view over the city. In fact, Buda Castle is one of the best Instagram spots in Budapest where you can take many amazing photos!

Since Budapest is a very walkable city, the castle can be easily reached from practically everywhere. You can either walk up to the castle or take the funicular that costs 1,200 HUF (4 USD) for one way and 1,800 HUF (6 USD) for a round trip. Although it’s a great experience, I would still recommend walking as it takes only like 10 minutes and you can get a pretty amazing view during the walk.

32. Vajdahunyad Castle

Recommended by Kriszti from She Wanders Abroad

Although Vajdahunyad Castle looks like a medieval castle at first glance, it has actually only been built over a 100 years ago for the 1000th birthday of the Hungarian State. Just like Vajdahunyad Castle, during the celebration many new attractions have been built as part of the Millennial Exhibition, such as the Heroes Square or the infamous lookout tower on the Buda side of the city, the Fisherman’s Bastion.

Located in the City Park (the biggest park in Budapest), Vajdahunyad Castle is sort of a hidden gem that not so many tourists know about. If you have at least a weekend in Budapest, make sure to include a visit to this beautiful castle and the surrounding park as well! Vajdahunyad Castle is home to the Hungarian Agricultural Museum and if you’re lucky, you can also catch one of the several festivals or concerts organized in the castle.

Fairytale castles in Romania

33. Bran Castle

Recommended by Kristin from That Traveling Family

Bran Castle, often referred to as Dracula’s Castle, has been the centerpiece of many legends and served as the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Located in the heart of Transylvania, that location alone conjures up thoughts of vampires and mystical creatures. The mythic version of Transylvania provides entertainment and will pique people’s interest when you mention that you’re visiting, but the reality is a beautiful countryside with an incredibly well preserved medieval castle in the midst of a small, although touristy, Romanian village.

Perched up high on a hill over the village of Bran, the castle served as a fortress, border and customs checkpoint for Transylvania in the 1300s before becoming a residence of many royals, including the infamous Vlad the Impaler. It has had many uses throughout history, but is currently a museum attracting visitors from around the world.

In addition to the interesting history of Bran Castle, it boasts beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys and a uniquely Transylvanian architecture. The small town of Bran leans into the lore of Dracula with the entrance to the castle filled with vendors selling all types of vampire related memorabilia, but after entering the grounds, you will find a quiet park, small pond, and path up the hill to the castle entrance. There’s plenty of room to spread out, let children play, enjoy the castle view, and grab a bite to eat from the snack shop.

Once inside, 30 minutes to an hour should be more than enough time to explore all of the rooms. However, make sure to plan a little extra time to enjoy the grounds as well as to wait at the entrance. Bran Castle is world famous and can get quite busy, especially in high season.