Millions of people search for famous castles around the world every year to take a peek into the lives of royalty. More than the stunning architecture of castles, there’s a lot more history, culture, and mystery that draws travelers to visit from all around the world. However, the 10 most beautiful castles in the world will leave you full-heartedly believing in “happily ever after.”

Here are the 10 Most Beautiful Castles in the World

1. Himeji Castle, Japan

Himeji Castle is a hilltop Japanese castle situated in Himeji. It was completed in the 17th century. This structure is both a Japanese national treasure and a World Heritage Site. The castle is usually known as Hakuro-jo or Shirasagi-jo. Because of its amazing white exterior, it resembles a bird taking flight. Himeji Castle is considered the finest surviving example of prototypical Japanese architecture, with 83 rooms with advanced defensive systems from the feudal period.

2. Pena National Palace, Portugal

Pena Castle is a Romanticist castle in Sao Pedro de Penaferrim, in the municipality of Sintra, on the Portuguese Riviera. This castle represents the eccentric and colorful flair of the 19th century. King Ferdinand II designed the castle on a hill in the Sintra Mountains. The castle’s vibrant shades decorate the front sections such as a red clock tower and restored convent and a yellow new palace. Currently, the castle is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the cultural landscape of Sintra. Visitors can explore the castle’s lush, hilly landscape.

3. Neuschwanstein, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle is located in the picturesque Bavarian Alps of Germany. This castle is a type of fairytale romance. Ludwig II of Bavaria authorizes the castle. Neuschwanstein Castle has an amazing view of the surrounding landscapes. It has picturesque towers and ornate interiors. As the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle Bavarian monarch instructed his architects to design something that would reflect the operas of Richard Wagner and the romantic ideals of the Middle Ages. Neuschwanstein Castle has even appeared in many flicks such as “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “The Great Escape.”

4. Matsumoto Castle, Japan

Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan’s premier historic castles. It is also known as Fukashi Castle or Crow Castle. The castle is surrounded by a picturesque moat and the Japanese Alps and its well-preserved castle dates back to the 16th century. Matsumoto Castles showcases traditional Japanese architecture. The castle design evolved into a tall three-towered structure with inky black walls and roofs. Matsumoto Castle is one of the last standing examples of daimyo castle.

5. Chateau de Chambord, France

Chateau de Chambord castle is one of the world’s most recognized chateaux because of its distinctive French Renaissance architecture. In the 16th century, the castle was authorized by King Francois I. It has more than 400 rooms, 280 fireplaces, 80 staircases, and a decorative moat making it one of the most captivating structures built by the French monarchy. Chateau de Chambord castle’s massive structure took 28 years to construct. Chateau de Chambord organizes many events throughout the year for visitors so that they can know the history of the Renaissance. In the holiday season, the castle is decorated with thousands of lights.

6. Peles Castle, Sinaia

Peles Castle is a Neo-Renaissance palace in the Royal Domain of Sinaia in the Carpathian Mountains. Authorized by King Carol I. The palace has a fairytale-like exterior that includes attractive turrets, spires, and exquisite carvings. It contains 160 rooms, all of which have a distinctive theme. While the opulent interiors, showcasing a blend of artistic styles, further enhance its allure. In 1989, the castle reopened as a public museum.

7. Bojnice Castle, Slovakia

Bojnice Castle is a medieval castle in Bojnice, Slovakia. As per the records found at the Zobor Abbey, this Romanesque castle should have been first built as a wooden fort as early as 1113. Later the wood was replaced by stone. By the 16th century, the Gothic castle boasted Renaissance elements. Bojnice Castle is filled with his impeccable collection of antiques, tapestries, and artwork. This castle has become one of the most visited castles in central Europe.

8. Frederiksborg Castle, Denmark

Frederiksborg Castle is located on three small islands in Hillerod, Denmark. The castle was built as a royal residence for King Christian IV of Denmark-Norway in the early 17th century. The Renaissance castle was a royal residence for 100 years before a major fire in 1859. To rebuild the castle a nationwide lottery and collection were held to raise funds. Frederiksborg Castle reopened in 1878 as the Museum of National History after the royal family decided it would no longer stay at the castle.

9. Schwerin Castle, Germany

In 1847, Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II authorized Georg Adolf Demmler to renovate the dated structure. The grand duke instructed Demmler to design a castle that felt modern yet celebrated the stunning architecture and heritage of the past. The castle has 653 rooms with a throne room which is outfitted with Carrara marble and gilded iron doors. Visitors can explore the castle’s garden and restaurant.

10. Vianden Castle, Luxembourg

Vianden Castle in the north of Luxembourg, is one of the largest fortified castles west of the Rhine. The castle was first built on the site of an ancient Roman watchtower between the 11th and 14th centuries. Till the beginning of the 15th century the castle. At the turn of the 16th century, the castle was abandoned after a series of marriages and political actions. In 1977, the state gained ownership, it slowly began to be pieced back together. By 1990, Vianden Castle had been restored as authentically as possible. It has since become a European treasure for people to explore.