28 Best Medieval and Fairytale Castles of Europe

Are you a castle-lover? This massive list of medieval and fairytale castles of Europe showcases some of the most famous and less-known castles worth visiting when you are in that particular country. Compiled with other bloggers’ help, the post includes everything you need to know when visiting those castles in Europe. 

Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

One of the oldest and most significant castles in Slovakia is Bojnice Castle dating back to 1113. It traded hands frequently and was rebuilt several times. It started as a wooden structure and then evolved into a Gothic, then a Renaissance, and finally into the Neo-Gothic Castle that it is today. Based on Benes decrees, after WWII, Bojnice Castle became part of the Slovak National Museum, which means it is now open for public tours. 

Located three hours east of Bratislava, taking a day trip to Bojnice Castle is simple, but it can be time-consuming. Just take the train from Bratislava to the small town of Prievidza and then either walk or taxi the 3km to the castle. This distant location allows Bojnice Castle to avoid the crowds you may find at other castles of Europe. 

Opening hours: Every day but varies by month

Entrance fee: 10 Euros for adults; discounts apply to various age groups. All ticket includes castle tour

Recommended By The Cure for Curiosity

Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

Eilean Donan Castle is famous worldwide and is one of the most visited and photographed castles in Europe. It is in Dornie, on the west coast of Scotland, on its own small island where three lochs meet. 

The first castle on the island was built in the 13^th century and has been re-constructed ever since. To visit, you will need to rent a car or join on one of the many bus tours as a day trip. 

Once there, step back in time and roam the inside rooms, and admire the art and the weapons displays. The facilities include a visitor center, a gift and coffee shop, and free parking. 

From the castle, you can also explore the quaint village of Dornie and easily accessible by the bridge to the majestic Isle of Skye. 

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season

Entrance fee: 10 GBP for adults 

Recommended by Average Lives

Egeskov Castle, Denmark

Egeskov Castle is a fairytale-like castle from 1554 with copper spires and a gorgeous moat. And it’s known as one of the best-preserved Renaissance water castles of Europe!

Enjoy a self-guided castle tour. Afterward, wander the beautiful award-winning gardens and admire the 12 km of high-hedges. It feels like you are walking the castle gardens in a movie! And there’s a huge classic car collection among other exhibitions to enjoy.

Egeskov Castle is also a fantastic choice if you have children because the grounds feature a fantastic forest playground, a pedal-powered go-kart track, and a hedge maze. 

The castle is a 2-hour drive from Copenhagen, and be sure to see the real-life 1,000-year-old Viking ships in Roskilde on your way.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season 

Entrance fees: 199 DKK for adults for castle grounds only; 249 DKK for adults for castle grounds AND castle entrance

Recommended by Destination Daydreamer

Serravalle Castle, Italy 

Also known as Malaspina Castle, Serravalle Castle is on the hills of Bosa, a lovely small town about one hour drive from Alghero, in Sardinia. 

The castle was built in 1112 upon orders of the Malaspina dello Spino Secco family, and its central role was to defend the area from attacks from the sea. Back then, the castle consisted of a tower and northern walls. It went through various modifications across time: in the 14th century, a tower was added with three floors inside. Seven more towers were added later on, as well as a church – the Nostra Signora de sos Regnos Altos, which is decorated with beautiful (albeit in need of restoration) frescoes representing the lives of St. Lawrence and St. Christopher martyrs.

Unfortunately, the castle isn’t in the best condition, but you can still walk along the walls and admire the views of Bosa below.

Opening hours: Every day 10 am – 7:30 pm. Make sure to double-check the opening times by calling +39 340 395 5048 +39 329 850 507. 

Entrance fee: 4 Euros

Recommended by Strictly Sardinia

Gravensteen Castle, Belgium

Situated in the Flemish city of Ghent, in Belgium, you’ll find Gravensteen Castle, an essential addition to your Ghent itinerary! The castle dates back to 1180 and was home to the various Counts of Flanders until 1353. Since then, it has been used as a court, a prison, and even a cotton mill! 

The castle audio guide is narrated by a Ghent comedian, who guides you through the castle and shares its history. This audio guide is what makes a visit to Gravensteen so unique, as it is both hilarious and informative.

You can get to Ghent very quickly by train from major European cities, and it’s just a 30-minute train ride away from Brussels. The castle is a 26 minute walk from the train station, or you can catch the number 1 tram to the castle, which takes 15 minutes.

Opening hours: Every day 10 am – 6 pm

Entrance fee: 12 Euros for adults, concession tickets available

Recommended by Many More Maps

Trakoscan Castle, Croatia

Situated on a hilltop in northern Croatia, Trakoscan Castle is one hidden gem that many tourists miss when heading to the Adriatic Sea. 

One of the incredibly well-preserved castles of Europe, this striking piece of history tells the story of a noble Croatian family that served the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Constructed in the 13th century, Trakoscan Castle served as part of the defense fortification network in northern Croatia. 

Today, the castle is home to authentic armor, weapons, historical paintings, furniture, and centuries-old scripts. Surrounding Trakoscan Castle, visitors will find an enchanting lake and emerald forest where medieval knights once roamed. Pedal boats are available to rent and can be taken out onto the lake for even more magical views of the castle.

Opening hours: Every day from 10 am – 6 pm; you can visit castle grounds at any time

Entrance fee: 40 HRK for adults; guided tour 200 HRK per group

Recommended by Inspired by Croatia

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Visiting Neuschwanstein Castle is on the bucket list of all castle lovers. One practically grew up with it, as it was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s castles. Compared to other castles of Europe, it is relatively new, as the construction started in 1869 by the order of King Ludwig II. He grew up in Hohenschwangau, his father’s castle, just 15 minutes from it. But of course, he wanted his own.

The castle was never meant to have a defensive purpose, but only to be a place of escape and peace for him. Ironically, he only got to sleep there for 172 nights. The building is still unfinished today. 

The best way to visit Neuschwanstein is from Munich. You can either rent a car or travel by train to Füssen and change by bus to get you to the castles.

Opening hours: Apr-Oct 15: 9 am – 6 pm; Oct 16 -Mar: 10 am – 4 pm

Entrance fee: 13 Euros for adults

Recommended by Travel With a Spin

De Haar Castle, Netherlands

De Haar Castle near Utrecht is the largest one in the Netherlands and one of the most luxurious castles in Europe.

Situated 30 minutes from Amsterdam, De Haar Castle looks spectacular with elegant towers, turrets, and moats. This brick-built castle with its shiny grey slate roofs was built in the early 20th century by Baron  Etienne Van Zuylen Van Nijevet. Inside, it is lavishly furnished and decorated with fine paintings. During the 1960s, the Baron hosted numerous visits from the international jet set.

The Castle stands in attractive French-style gardens, with flowers, herbs, and aviaries. The rose garden contains 79 different types of roses. The castle grounds are fringed by woodland, and there is a pretty private chapel.

To reach De Haar Castle from Amsterdam, take the train to Utrecht (18 min). From Utrecht Centrumzidje, catch the 28 bus to Vleuten Station and then the 127 bus to Haarzullens Brink (12 min). There is a 15-minute walk from the station to the castle.

Opening hours: Every day. Park: 9 am – 5 pm; Castle: 11 am – 5 pm

Entrance fee: 18 Euro for adults including park; FREE with Museum Card; Only park 7 Euros for adults; 

Recommended by Historic European Castles

Hohenzollern Castle, Germany

Hohenzollern Castle is one of the most breathtaking castles in Germany. Built on top of a hill, you can see it as you approach from any direction.

Apart from being beautiful, it’s also one of the impressive castles of Europe. The golden stone gleams in the sun and exploring it feels like you’ve stepped into another world. The entrance is particularly remarkable when you arrive through the gatehouse and then wind your way up the path, inside a covered walkway past old storerooms, chambers, and other rooms.

Another intriguing part of the castle is the catacombs, or underground caves, where they stored ammunition and gunpowder. 

If you can arrive early, you’ll enjoy the castle without the crowds. Even better, if you’re touring Europe in a motorhome, you can stay overnight in the car park and be first through the gates. 

Opening hours: Every day from 10 am – 6 pm

Entrance fee: 16 Euros for adults; 8 Euros for children

Recommended By Wandering Bird

Lismore Castle, Ireland

Lismore Castle is along the banks of the River Blackmore in County Waterford, Ireland. The castle has been the Irish home of the Dukes of Devonshire for over 300 years. The family still lives there today, so you can only see the interior through a private hire.

The beautiful gardens – a mixture of formal and informal – are open to the public between March and September. The Lower Garden was built in the 19th Century, while the Upper Garden was an exceptionally walled yard built in 1605. The flower meadows bloom in the spring and early summer, making this the best time to visit.

The admission price includes access to the Lismore Castle Art Gallery. The gallery features changing collections of local and international importance.

The best way to visit the castle is by car from Waterford or Cork.

Opening hours: Every day from 11 am – 5 pm (last admission 4 pm)

Entrance fee: Adult: 8.50 Euros for adults: 6.50 Euros for children

Recommended By Celt and Kiwi 

Domaine de Chantilly, France

The Domaine de Chantilly is one jewel of the French heritage to visit when you are spending your vacation or weekend in Paris. It is only 30 minutes by train from the Gare du Nord station. You can get lost and enjoy a romantic stroll in the Anglo-Chinese or the English gardens. There is also a beautiful terrace, which offers stunning panoramas.

If you like paintings, you have to visit the art galleries and discover some works from Rafael. Don’t miss the reading room; you will be surprised by an exceptional collection of books.

The masterpiece attracting the majority of the visitors is the excellent stables. The splendid architectural monument looks like a castle for horses and is the biggest in Europe. You can explore the stables and enter the equestrian world by visiting the Museum of Horses. But above all, you will be marveled by the horseman show organized every day throughout the year with acrobatic dressage figures (except on Tuesdays as the castle is closed).

Opening hours: Wed-Mon; Mar 28-Nov 1: 10 am – 6 pm with gardens closing at 8 pm; Nov 2- Mar 26: 10 am – 5 pm with gardens closing at 6 pm; Closed on Tuesdays

Entrance fee: 17 Euros for adults, including a park, Chateau, and the Stables. Check out the website for more info

Recommended by Always Ready to Check-in

Warwick Castle, England

Warwick castle is one of the magnificent English construction and must-visit castles of Europe and the United Kingdom. Founded by William the conqueror, Warwick castle is filled with 1000 years of incredible history. The majestic castle sits right next to River Avon and is a perfect day out in Midlands. 

Inside the castle, explore the towers and ramparts, time tower, Prince’s tower, horrible histories maze, dungeons, and the vast gardens. Don’t miss out on the panoramic views of the countryside from the castle. You can explore the castle in 3-4 hours, but it is best to spend a day here if possible as there are so many things to see and do inside. Some various events and shows happen inside the castle (separate tickets). 

Reach Warwick castle with public transport. There are frequent train services to Midlands and direct trains from Birmingham to Warwick. The castle is only one mile away from Warwick Train Station. 

Opening hours: Every day from 10 am – 4 pm in winter; 10 am – 5 pm in summer

Entrance fee: online 21 GBP for adults, on the spot 26 GBP. Tickets include access to daily shows, the castle, and the gardens.

Recommended by Country Hopping Couple 

Bran Castle, Romania

Built between 1377 and 1388, Bran Castle sits in Romania’s heart like a medieval castle once home to the prisoner Vlad the Impaler. This famous Romanian ruler inspired the world-renowned vampire from Bran Stoker’s 1897 novel “Dracula.” Since then, Bran Castle has been known as “Dracula’s Castle,” attracting visitors from across the world.

Overlooking the mountain pass between Wallachia and Transylvania, Bran Castle takes its guests back in time through eerie halls, informational plaques, and a media room.

Travelers can find Bran Castle in the Romanian countryside around 3 hours from Bucharest. The castle has around 300 steps bringing guests through tight walkways adding to the spooky atmosphere. Opt-in for the Torture Room experience to capture some great pictures and personalize your castle visit.

Opening hours: Oct-March: Mon 12 am – 4 pm; Tue-Sun 9 am – 4 pm; Apr-Sep: Mon 12 pm – 6 pm; Tue-Sun 9 am – 6 pm; 

Entrance fees: 45 RON for adults; 25 RON for students; Check hours and admissions

Recommended by Ellie’s Travel Tips

Haut-Kœnigsbourg Castle, France

The Haut-Kœnigsbourg castle was built during the 12th century. It has a pretty tumultuous history: it was utterly destroyed and rebuilt twice and even belonged to Germany at one point!

The castle has been beautifully renovated, and one can perfectly imagine what life was like during the Middle Ages. The castle is at the top of a mountain, and the views alone are worth the visit.

The easiest way to get there is to rent a car, but you can also take a train and a shuttle bus to get to the castle.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season

Entrance fee: 7 Euros for adults. You need to purchase tickets online beforehand (at least during covid).

Recommended by Chasing Wow Moments

Bled Castle, Slovenia

Lake Bled is a world-famous destination. A mesmerizing glacial lake surrounded by mountains, the most idyllic tiny island in the middle of the lake, AND a beautiful medieval castle perched high above on the cliffs next to the lake overlooking this almost incredible scenery. 

Bled Castle dates back to the year 1011 and is Slovenia’s oldest castle. Although back then, it looked a lot different than it does today. In 1511 the castle was largely destroyed by an earthquake and then rebuilt into the castle you can visit today. Nowadays, the castle houses a museum that has a medieval print shop where you can have your own text printed in traditional style, a wine cellar, and a restaurant overlooking Lake Bled. 

You can easily reach Bled by car or by public transport from Ljubljana.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by month 

Entrance fee: 13 Euros for adults; 8.50 Euros for students

Note: if you’re dining in the castle restaurant, your reservation includes the castle’s entrance fee

Recommended by Craving Adventure

Turku Castle, Finland

The construction of Turku Castle started in 1280 C.E. when the city of Turku was still the capital of Finland. It has since been used by the Finnish, Swedish, and Russian armed forces at various points in history.

Turku castle is one of Finland’s biggest medieval castles. It has been exceptionally well renovated, and you can feel the history as you walk through the halls! You can visit the castle by yourself or take a guided group tour. Tours take place daily and cost an added 3 Euros.

The easiest way to get there is to rent a car, but you can get to the castle using public transportation too.

Opening hours: Every day but varies per season 

Entrance fee: 12 Euros for adults

Recommended by Chasing Wow Moments 

Bodiam Castle, England

Located in East Sussex, Bodiam Castle is one of the best castles near London, England, dating back to the 14th century. This medieval castle has a perfect sandcastle-like appearance.  

Its surrounding moat further enhances its magnificence. On a still day, you can see the castle reflecting elegantly in the water, and at times, a layer of mist may roll in, creating an even more magical scene.

Built originally in 1385 to provide a defense to the local area against the French in the Hundred Years’ War, only the exterior remains relatively intact. While the interior has fallen into ruin, only a little imagination is required to envision what castle life may once have been with medieval knights roaming within.

Bodiam Castle is easily accessed by car, and there is parking available. However, it is also possible to get here by train and taxi.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season 

Entrance fee: 10.30 GBP for adults

Recommended by We Dream of Travel

Marienburg Castle, Germany

Germany is home to many well-known castles such as Neuschwanstein Castle and Eltz Castle. However, Marienburg Castle is just as beautiful looking straight out of a fairytale, but it doesn’t have the same crowds as other castles of Europe.

The Castle is 30km from Hannover in a small city called Hildesheim. If you are using Hannover as a base, you can take the train or the bus to Nordstemmen train station. From here the Castle is 2.7km and while it is possible to walk it is easier to take a taxi.

Built between 1858 and 1867 by King George V as a gift to his wife, Queen Marie, the castle was intended as a “romantic summer residence.” However, King George V and Queen Marie could only live in the castle for a year as King George V was exiled to Austria.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season 

Entrance fee: 12.50 Euros for adults; 9.50 for children

Recommended by Travelling Thirties

Predjama Castle, Slovenia

One of the impressive castles of Europe is the Predjama Castle in Slovenia. It is located only a few kilometers from the world-famous Postojna Cave and is an insider tip for any trip through this country. 

Predjama means “in front of the cave,” and that is precisely where the castle is. Its entrance is in a vast cavern, which gives this cave a very special mysticism.

This imposing castle was built over 800 years ago, and today, it still sits enthroned in the middle of a 123-meter-high cliff. It is the only preserved cave castle in Europe and offers a unique insight into people’s building techniques and ingenuity in the Middle Ages.

Not only impressive from the outside, but you should also visit this castle from the inside! Here you will find a lovely museum that leads through old knights’ halls, ancient bedrooms, and even a chapel. Interesting is also the way down to the cave under the castle.

The easiest way to reach it is by a day trip from Ljubljana or by rental car.

Opening hours: Every day from 9 am – 5 pm

Entrance fee: 13.80 Euros for adults

Recommended by Places of Juma

Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark

Arriving at Frederiksborg Castle, you will immediately be enchanted by its magnificent Renaissance architecture and extensive Baroque gardens. First built by King Christian IV back in the 17th century to show his status and power as a European monarch, its stunning size makes it the largest Renaissance complex in the Nordic region.

Situated just 35 kilometers outside of the capital, Frederiksborg Castle is an easy day trip from Copenhagen. Just take the train from the central train station in Copenhagen to the town of Hillerød, and then walk the 1.5 kilometers to the castle. 

During your visit to Frederiksborg Castle, you can tour the inside of the castle, home to the Museum of National History, covering over 500 years of Danish history, and its stunning gardens.

Opening hours: Nov-Mar 11 am – 3 pm; Apr-Oct 10 am – 5 pm 

Entrance fee: 75 DKK for adults

Recommended by The Cure for Curiosity

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle, an iconic building, brimming with tales of history, royalty, and courage, is one of the oldest castles of Europe. This is one of the essential Edinburgh tourist attractions that kids love as well.

As you enter the grand entrance to the castle, the Royal Guards standing still in their red uniform and iconic black bearskin hats welcome you. The castle is enormous and has so many stories associated with every nook and corner. Take a guided tour that’s included in the ticket or an audio tour at additional charges.

While you are waiting for the guides, walk towards the Half Moon Battery – the shiny black canons arched on the wall. Another canon that will not escape your eyes is the Mons Meg, six tonnes strong. Some of the other highlights are the Great Hall displaying the armors and weapons in the once banquet room, St Margaret’s Castle, The Honors of Scotland, where the oldest bejeweled crown is displayed with other significant artifacts.

Located at the end of the Royal Mile, the castle stands tall on the Castle Hill rock, overlooking the city, providing some fantastic views.

Opening hours: Apr-Seo 9:30 am – 6 pm; Oct-Mar 10 am – 4 pm 

Entrance fee: 15.50 GBP for adults; 9.30 GBP for children; Family tickets range 31-53 GBP

Note: There is no parking at the Castle and you can use some street parking in the nearest parking zones. 

Recommended by Travel Melodies

Château de Jumilhac, France

The Château of Jumilhac is a fairytale castle in the northern Dordogne region of France.  The central part of the château was built in the 15^th century and sports many pointed turrets, which add to the castle’s charm.  The two wings and courtyard were added in the 16^th and 17^th centuries and mixed in a classical style to the original medieval architecture. 

The inside is full of traditional furnishings and local history. The castle and manicured gardens are privately owned, but it is open for guided and self-guided tours year-round.  The castle is also available for private hire. You will need a car to reach Jumilhac Castle or a taxi from the La Coquille train station.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season 

Entrance fee: 9.50 Euros for adults; 5.50 Euros for children 

Recommended by Nouvelle-Aquitaine Travel 

Hluboká Castle, Czech Republic

If you are looking for romantic castles of Europe, then the beautiful neo-Gothic Hluboká Castle is a must-see on a trip to the Czech Republic. This fairytale palace is about 30 kilometers from the famous medieval town Cesky Krumlov and is probably one of the most visited castles in South Bohemia.

The snow-white facade and the many turrets, which give Hluboka Castle a dreamlike ambiance, are particularly beautiful here. Walking through the picturesque gardens, you almost feel like a princess, and also, the pompous 140 interiors are breathtaking to see!

The oldest part of the chateau dates back to the 13th century. Still, this castle got its current shape in the middle of the 19th century, when Johann Adolf II of Schwarzenberg and his wife Eleonore had the chateau wholly rebuilt.

Hluboká Castle is also an ideal day trip destination when visiting Prague!

Opening hours: Every day from 9 am – 5 pm

Entrance fee: 210 CZK for adults

Recommended by Places of Juma

Vajdahunyad Castle, Hungary

Located in Budapest’s City Park by the lake, Vajdahunyad Castle is one of the romantic castles of Europe. It was built in 1896 for the Millennial Exhibition to showcase the evolution of Hungary’s architectural styles. The castle blends various Romanesque, Gothic Renaissance, and Baroque styles, ranging from the Middle Ages to the 18^th century.

In 1896, it was built out of cardboard and wood. However, due to its popularity, it was rebuilt in stone and brick between 1904-08. If you look closely, you’ll notice that it copies several landmarks from different parts of the Kingdom of Hungary, including the Hunyad Castle (Corvin Castle) in Transylvania, Romania.

Today, the castle is home to the Museum of Hungarian Agriculture. Also, you can visit one of its towers with a guided tour. Its grounds include the superb Jak Chapel, as well as a vast park.

The easiest way to get to the castle is by Metro Line 1 (yellow). The stop is Hosok Ter (Heroes Square).

Opening hours: Tue-Sun 10 am – 5 pm; Closed on Mondays. Check opening hours of different rooms

Entrance fee: 1,600 HUF for adults for the museum; Check other fees

Note: The grounds never closed, so you can walk in the park anytime for free 

Recommended by LooknWalk 

Château des Milandes, France

The Château des Milandes is a little castle in the Valley of the Five Châteaux in the Dordogne.  It was built late in the 1400s for the lords that ruled at the nearby Château de Castelnaud. 

This more miniature and modern castle was preferable to the cold and drafty medieval fortress.  Fast forward to the 1940s, Château des Milandes was rented by jazz era legend Josephine Baker. Baker then bought the castle in 1947 and spent summers there with her large brood of adopted children. 

Unfortunately, Josephine Baker lost the castle due to unpaid debts in 1968. It is now open to the public, where you can appreciate the grandeur in which she lived. You need a car to reach Château des Milandes, although some tours leave from Sarlat during the high season.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season

Entrance fee: 12.50 Euros for adults; 8 Euros for children

Recommended by Nouvelle-Aquitaine Travel 

Corvin Castle, Romania

Also known as Hunyadi Castle or Hunedoara Castle (Ro: Castelul Huneazilor), Corvin Castle is a Gothic-Renaissance Castle, located in Hunedoara, Romania.

Laid out in 1446, it remains one of the largest castles of Europe. It was constructed over an older fortification on a rock overlooking a small river and features a large, imposing structure with tall towers, a myriad of rooms, balconies, and a large inner courtyard.

You may visit the castle on a self-guided tour, but you can also pay for a guide. Depending on how much you are into castles, you can easily spend several hours here. Also, do note that events (such as a Tango festival) may occur in the gorgeous Dietei Hall.

The easiest way to get to the castle is by rental car or as a day trip from Cluj. If you decide to rent a car, enter Hunedoara from Sântuhalm, then follow Traian, Republicii, and Libertăţii Boulevards. There is good signage along the way, and GPS also works well.

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season

Entrance fee: 35 RON for adults including the castle, Casa Breslelor, and Protohistory exhibition; You need to pay if you take photos – 5 RON per camera 

Recommended by LooknWalk 

Craigievar Castle, Scotland

Nestled into the picturesque Scottish countryside, the enchanting Craigievar Castle is one of the best castles in Scotland.  Dating back to 1576, its exterior remains almost entirely unchanged, except painted pink in 1824! This pink color adds to its fairytale vibe. It’s even rumored to have been part of Walt Disney’s inspiration for the Cinderella castle!

National Trust for Scotland manages the castle, and there is ample metered parking on site and bathroom facilities available.  

Within the castle, you will discover an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including armor and weapons. Interestingly, only the ground floor has artificial lighting. This provides a more authentic experience when viewing the collections, seeing them in natural light as they would’ve been when they were made.

It is also well worth taking the time to explore the gardens and woodland trails. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a rare pine marten! 

Opening hours: Every day but varies by season; grounds are open till the dusk

Entrance fee: 14.50 GBP adults

Recommended by We Dream of Travel

Kronborg Castle, Denmark

A castle where Shakespeare set his famous play ‘Hamlet’ – Kronborg Castle is located in Helsingør or Elsinore (as Shakespeare called it) in Denmark. It inhabited a prime position on a narrow point between the Danish and Swedish coasts and served as a point for the Sound Dues or Sound Tolls collection in the late 1500s.

Designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kronborg Castle is Northern Europe’s main Renaissance castle and Denmark’s most beautiful fairytale castle.

With its striking exteriors and equally elegant interiors, Kronborg looks stunning. Holger Danske’s white sculpture placed in dark and gloomy underground passages is a must-see. If you happen to visit in August, make sure to see the world-class performances at Shakespeare Festival.

Kronborg Castle is around 46 km from Copenhagen. You can plan to stay in Helsingor and explore the castle with other attractions in Helsingor or visit the castle as a day trip from Copenhagen via train. 

Opening hours: Very by season and day

Entrance fee: Vary by season; FREE for children under 18 years.

Recommended by Travel Melodies

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