Want to live like nobility in a medieval castle? Embark on an architectural pilgrimage across Europe

Mumu | FunTime

Medieval Europe always gives off a mysterious vibe, as the land was steeped in the Black Death and religious fervor, earning it the name "Dark Ages." However, the medieval castles scattered across Europe reveal another facet of the era. Below is a list of must-visit medieval castles in Europe, offering a glimpse into the grandeur, majesty, and romantic charm of the Middle Ages.

(Photo via Wikimedia, by DAVID ILIFF, CC License)

Windsor Castle, located in the suburbs of London, is one of the few medieval castles still in use today. The British Queen sometimes vacations and resides here briefly. Like most medieval castles, Windsor Castle was built with defense in mind, so its exterior is not as opulent as palaces like Versailles. Yet, over the centuries, Windsor Castle has guarded countless victories for Britain and witnessed the rise and fall of the British Empire.

(Photo via Wikimedia, by DAVID ILIFF, CC License)

You can tell whether the Queen is in the castle by the flag flying atop it. If the Union Jack is hoisted, it means the Queen is not inside. If you see the Royal Standard fluttering, you’re lucky—she’s there up above! For a more relaxed visit to Windsor Castle, it’s recommended to buy tickets online in advance to save time queuing. Purchase them directly on the official Windsor Castle website and choose your ticket collection method, or you can buy tickets in Chinese on Taiwanese ticketing websites.

Editor’s little secret:When booking on the official website, it’s best to select "Print at Home"; otherwise, you’ll still have to queue up to collect your tickets on-site.

Transportation:PaddingtonWindsor & Eton Central,20.

From London Waterloo, trains depart for Windsor & Eton Central at 20, 28, 50, and 58 minutes past each hour.

(Photo via Flickr, by Mike McBey, CC License)

Edinburgh Castle is situated on a steep hillside. In medieval times, its natural terrain was used to defend against enemy attacks. Today, it has become a must-visit tourist attraction in Scotland.Climbing to the top of the castle offers panoramic views of Edinburgh, and this magnificent fortress is also a major symbol of Scotland.

(Photo via Flickr, by Matthew Hartley, CC License)

Although Edinburgh Castle is said to have a spooky and mysterious atmosphere, its grandeur still attracts many visitors.It’s to witness the former glory and scenery of Scotland, and to enjoy the romance of overlooking this beautiful town of Edinburgh.Meanwhile, ticket prices in Edinburgh change from year to year, so it is recommended to check the official website before you go.

Ticket Price:Before the end of March 2019:

After April 1, 2019:

Transportation:It is within walking distance from downtown Edinburgh.

Located on the border between Germany and France in Alsace, the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg has long been a strategic stronghold.Having survived numerous battles and changing hands with political shifts, each new owner added their own personal touch to the castle. As a result, visitors can see features reflecting the preferences of different kings.

(Photo via Haut-K
Snigsbourg official website)

Within the castle, staff dressed in medieval costumes periodically guide guests to learn more about the history and stories of the castle.Although the tour guide language is French, you can still take a time-travel journey with the staff.
It is worth noting that every year from November to the first Sunday of March, as well as the third weekend of September, the site is completely free and open to all visitors!

Ticket Price:Adults 9,00 ?/p>

Transportation:It is recommended to drive or take a taxi to get there.
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If you don’t want to crowd with others in downtown Paris, or if you wish to explore beautiful spots beyond well-known attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, you can easily take a train to reach Château de Vincennes.Château de Vincennes stands in the suburbs of Paris, featuring a predominantly white exterior and is very well preserved.Though its exterior is simple, it is the tallest castle in Europe and was also the residence of Louis XIV before he settled in the Palace of Versailles!

(Photo via Wikimedia, by Chatsam, CC License)

Château de Vincennes is not as popular as the aforementioned castles, making for a more relaxed and leisurely visit.This castle also has a rich historical background. You can opt to pay extra for an English group tour and follow the staff to gain a deeper understanding of the story of Château de Vincennes; alternatively, you can book the Tour of the upper floors of the keep in advance, where staff will take you to the usually off-limits top floor for a panoramic view of the city of Vincennes. I believe everyone will absolutely fall in love with Château de Vincennes.

Ticket price:Adults 9.00, travelers under 6 years old 7.00

Transportation:Subway Line 1 to Station Ch

Train RER A to Châtelet station

The Alhambra was built by Muhammad I, known as the Son of the Red Man, which is why it is also called the "Red Palace." The fortress is located in the southern Spanish city of Granada and mainly consists of two architectural complexes: the Court of the Myrtles and the Court of the Lions. The Alhambra features strong Arabic architectural elements and incorporates unique Islamic garden design techniques, which is why it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1984.

(Photo via Wikimedia, by Tuxyso, CC License)

There are so many people who want to visit the Alhambra that getting a ticket without advance booking is almost impossible. Only a very small number of tickets are released for same-day visits, and if you want to secure one, you might have to queue up on the mountain at midnight to stand a chance. If you’d rather avoid such an “intense” ticket scramble, we strongly recommend that travelers purchase their tickets in advance. However, tickets cannot be bought directly on the official Alhambra website, but there is an officially affiliated ticketing system.
Daytime tickets to the Alhambra come in two price tiers, with the only difference being whether you can enter the Nasrid Palaces.

A little insider tip from us:Most people opt for the more expensive option, since the Nasrid Palaces are the highlight of the entire palace complex.