There comes a time in a married couple’s relationship when you have to take a break from the rigors of your jobs and family responsibilities. You need time to be together and reconnect, just like old times, to keep the fire going in your relationship.

Going away on a holiday takes a lot of planning and preparation. The most exciting decision would be where to go. Married couples like you assess your common dreams and interests, and the bonding starts right here.

One option would be to travel back to a place with sentimental value to both of you where you can relive wonderful memories all over again. Love will be lovelier this second trip around. Another option would be to go to a place you have never been before and discover new sights together. This would be one of the greatest adventures in your married life.

Three of the most romantic places any married couple would love to travel to would be:

photo credit: Raul DS

- Paris. Who wouldn’t fall in love with Paris? Known as the “City of Love”, it’s a dream destination for lovers everywhere. Your first stop would be to have your pictures taken at the Arc de Triomphe landmark which welcomes visitors into Paris. Three of the top sights a couple should see are the Musee de Louvre where Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo are displayed, the elevator ride up Eiffel Tower to view the outskirts of Paris, and the Notre Dame Cathedral with its romantic Rose Windows. A couple could hold hands and promenade along the nearby Siene River where you could dine in side cafés or have picnics in parks and gardens at the Tuileries near Louvre. These descriptions are nothing compared to the real experience of Paris in its entirety, day or night.

photo credit: brianburk9

- Venice. Who wouldn’t love a gondola ride down the Grand Canal to the tune of O Sole Mio? It’s one of the best moments to hold hands and gaze at each other’s eyes once more. Just as romantic would be a stroll through the Piazza San Marco, the most famous square in Venice where you could enjoy the fine architecture of old churches and partly-submerged buildings. You could dine at fancy Italian gourmet restaurants to your heart’s content. Those who are fascinated by Greece would love Santorini Island with its serene beaches and its villages nestled atop volcanic cliffs. Santorini has one of the most spectacular sunsets you could ever experience. If sunsets mean a lot to both of you, then this is the place.

photo credit: ndanger

- Hawaii. Who wouldn’t go head over heels about a second honeymoon in Maui or Kauai? Among all other top beach destinations like Bali, Maldives, and Mykonos, Hawaii remains the best-loved tropical paradise of all. A highlight would be taking a honeymoon cruise to see famous sights like Waimea Canyon, Wailua Waterfalls, Hanalei and Fern Grotto. Add to that other waterfalls, beaches, volcanoes, and rainforests which abound in the islands. If you both love watching a sunrise, the Magic Isle of Maui is to place to see it together.

Married life is all about enjoying days and nights and watching sunrises and sunsets together, be it at home or during your travels. It’s all in the moments.

photo credit: Latente ? www.latente.it

Visiting Paris might be really thrilling and pretty overwhelming. While using the tons of points this city has to offer you, you’ll be able to hardly know wherever to begin and which spots you are not intended to miss. Listed here are some sights and Paris sights that you just need to in no way miss out on.

photo credit: Usraek
First off will be the world-famous Eiffel Tower that’s regarded as because the main landmark of Paris. It stands 300m higher which enable it to offer you you a magnificent panoramic view of the entire town. Though you have to endure the extended line going to the best, it is all well worth it.
An additional tourist attraction will be the Notre Dame Cathedral. It is the first cathedral built for the city and paved the way in which for Paris being regarded as the capital of France. It characteristics an excellent Gothic architecture, ornamented with large rose windows, stained glasses and revolutionary sculptures.
Any trip to Paris is not complete with out spending a visit on the Louvre Museum that served being a fortress in the course of the Middle Ages. At current, this museum houses the world-renowned painting by Leonardo Da Vinci – the Mona Lisa together with other extraordinary arts and antiques collected from all more than the world. And simply because it basically requires months to total a tour of everything inside museum, it’s essential to select which to see very first.

photo credit: p2bg
And for each shopaholic, it is not possible to go to Paris without having likely to The Champs-Elysees Avenue, which characteristics one of the most well-known boutiques and automobile showrooms.
Tuileries Garden, the stunning park based from the heart of Paris, is not being missed as well. Following a long day of sightseeing or purchasing at Paris, this can be a nice location to unwind. You will find also coffee shops along the park which you can appreciate while viewing the park’s fountains and sculptures.
With all these heart-captivating sights, you’re certain to have a memorable vacation in the Town of Lights.

Thinking about traveling outside of the country? Famouswonders.com can help you decide where to go on your next vacation, or you can view best hotels in Paris.

From OffToEurope.com:

Paris is a spectacular city, and while it is expensive to stay and eat here, there is so much to see and do that you can have a great time without spending a penny on attractions. Here are five free things to do in Paris.

1. Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette – Photo: nttoan93

Paris is perhaps the world’s premier fashion city and you can see some amazing designs in this haute couture city for free. As long as you reserve ahead of time the Galeries Lafayette will not cost you anything to attend and the building in which it is hosted is worth the price of admission itself. Oops, sorry, there is no price of admission. Email welcome at Galerieslafayette.com for reservations.

2. River Seine

The Seine River and Eifel Tower – Photo: Vincent Montibus

Take a stroll along the River Seine. You can go at your own pace and you don’t have to pay to be on a boat with a bunch of noisy people. Along the banks of the Seine you will see many incredible attractions including the Pont Neuf, the Place de la Concorde, Notre Dame, the Musée d’Orsay and the Eiffel Tower. All you have to do is resist the temptation to stop in the numerous wonderful cafes and bars along the way. Instead why not have a picnic at the Ponts des Artes which offers incredible views of the City of Light.

3. Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum – Photo: Massimo Carradori

The Louvre is definitely worth visiting; though avoid queuing for ages to see the Mona Lisa, this massively hyped artwork is less impressive in real life. Free entry is available on the first Sunday of each month and to students, anyone under 18 and the disabled, as long as they have the necessary proof. Alternatively you can just walk around the fountains and courtyards outside; the building is among the marvels of European architecture.

4. Père Lachaise Cemetery

Oscar Wilde’s Grave – Photo: S.MI5

See the gravestones of some of the great artists of the 20th century, including intellect Oscar Wilde and rock star Jim Morrison. The Perè Lachaise cemetery is located in the 20th arrondissement and is a fabulously atmospheric place to take a walk.

5. Moules Frites

Moules Frites – Photo: **Mary**

Pay for a drink and get a free meal. You can’t leave Paris without trying the Moules Frites, mussels with chips. At places such as Le Tribal Café at 3 Cour des petites Ecuries, it is possible to pay for a pint of beer (about three euros) and get a plate of wonderful steaming mussels to go with it. The offer applies after 9pm on Wednesday and Thursdays.

From NationalGeographic.com:

Ever have one of those moments when you wish you could look out your window and see the streetscape of Paris spilled out before you? Well now you can have the same view from your desktop. Mashable reports on the new release of the Paris 26 Gigapixels site, which stitched together 2,346 photos (or 26 billion pixels) to create a panoramic view of Paris (complete with the wistful accordion music from Amélie…swoon).

The zoom capability on the site is impressive: You can see the gargoyles on Notre Dame Cathedral, or the tourists gathering on the steps outside Sacré Coeur. The site also does well by highlighting 20 Most Beautiful Paris Monuments, providing history and background information about each. But to get the real “I’m in Paris” sensation, go to the full-screen mode and navigate the streets until you find an apartment to call your own. Then grab a baguette and pretend you’re peering out from the window of your pied-à-terre. (There’s also an HD mode, which only enhances the experience.)

To learn more about how the Gigapixel photo was taken, read about it here and here.

[Mashable]
[Paris 26 Gigapixels]

From BraveNewTraveler.com:

Photo: DavidDennisPhotos.com

LIKE MOST FIRST TIMES mine was clumsy, quick, and made me feel uncomfortable, not to mention self-conscious. I didn’t really know what I was doing. My second time wasn’t much of an improvement but at least I was starting to get the rhythm and I kept going a little longer.

Claire, my girlfriend, said I was doing well and that everyone has to start somewhere but I could see that she wasn’t happy waiting for me to improve while she was already more than competent. So the third time would be on her terms: in public where I had no choice but to succeed.

I was worried that people would laugh or stare, but she assured me this was Paris and it was perfectly normal. But I could see before I’d even finished putting on my rollerblades that everyone else was better than me.

Photo: Bitterjug

Sunday blades

Every Sunday in Paris hundreds of skaters and ‘bladers gather on the Boulevard Bourbon, close to the Bastille, to enjoy the city on wheels, without traffic.

Everyone is welcome and there is no charge — you may join and leave as you wish. (Pari Roller does another group blade on Friday nights.)

My previous explorations on blades had lasted less than an hour — each time abruptly ended by blood and bruised limbs — and I was wondering how far I would make it through the three-hour course.

The route changes every week, taking in different areas of the city. The one I joined would be heading from the Bastille, across the Seine towards the Gare d’Austerlitz, and down the Rive Gauche before crossing the river once more on the way to Bois de Vincennes. After a short break, we would return on a similar route.

An ambulance and several staff — indicated by bright yellow t-shirts — always follow at the rear to keep the group together; should you fall behind you are kindly asked to leave. The pace is gentle, but I knew I’d have to work hard to avoid expulsion.

Having spent only twenty euros on a pair of new skates, they had about as much freewheeling potential as the box they came in.

Harder than it looks

As the group set off, the streets became crowded with the combined movement of thousands of legs, creating a hum of spinning bearings. I became more than a little worried as I edged out into the group and began my clumsy skating.

People weaved in and out of the crowds, others simply rushed past with apparent ease.

Photo: Very Quiet

Everyone was faster than me: five-year-old children, parents skating with pushchairs, groups of teenagers tied together by shared iPod headphones, OAPs, even complete beginners holding on desperately to their partners to remain balanced quickly overtook.

I took in water, said a confident “désolè” as I fell into the person next to me, and wondered how long before I was fatally wounded. Claire followed close by, ignoring the humiliation of being the second slowest person in the group.

As we crossed the Seine, I took a moment to appreciate the view up the river, with Isle de Cite and Notre Dame cathedral visible in the distance. The brief lapse in concentration, however, made my legs rapidly split in opposite directions and my arms flailed wildly, hitting several passing skaters.

The rest of the journey was spent not enjoying the sights of Paris as I had hoped, but with my head down in concentration on the repetitive push left, push right, push left, push right.

Opposite the Museum of Natural History, with its carefully manicured Jardin de Plantes (that I dared not look at), we made our way across the famous Parisian cobbled streets. The absence of a smooth road slowed my already glacial skating pace to a practical stop, but despite my hindrance to those behind me, the atmosphere was one of support and mutual enjoyment.

“You need to put your feet like this. It is better,” said one man as he skated passed me, demonstrating the optimal position. I didn’t know the French for “You don’t think I’ve been trying to do that?” so I thanked him as he skated off, zigzagging backwards between those around him as if to demonstrate just how much finesse I lacked.

Photo: span

Beginning of the end

Holding back the traffic in Paris is no easy feat, but a brave band of volunteers and a few policemen on mopeds or blades heroically manage the task.

The building traffic jams join in the festive mood of the event by continually sounding their horns until we have passed, which can be up to fifteen or twenty minutes in parts.

It was somewhere in Bois de Vincennes — a grand park just outside the city — that I finally met my end; after half a mile or so of enjoying the landscaped grounds and views over the boating lake, the rough road had taken its toll.

It almost happened in slow motion as the last skaters passed: the yellow wall of event volunteers, the police, the ambulance, and then the bicycles that followed. I had failed to keep up! I could only watch as the peloton slowly disappeared into the park.

Community Connection

For another fresh, human-powered idea for exploring the urban landscape, check out Sightjogging: City Walking Tours on Speed.

From OffToEurope.com

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of Europe’s most scenic drives – Photo: Dew Drop

One of the biggest attractions of traveling to Europe is the fact that one can drive from one country to another – at least most of the countries. With the formation of the European Union, travel by motor vehicle has become so much easier, giving a new meaning to the phrase “road trip.” While ease of moving from one European country to another is definitely not an issue, the differences in laws of the road can be quite a feat to face. If you are considering traveling Europe by car – with you behind the wheel – here are some things that you may want to know.

In London, you will have to pay $16 if you enter the “congestion zone.” This law has been in effect for some years now, in an effort to lessen the amount of traffic in the area. These zones are easily recognizable by the red signs with a white C in a circle. Some rental car agencies include this in the cost, so ask beforehand.

If you’re driving in France, make sure that you do not have children below 10 years old sitting up front. The law requires that they sit in the back seat, safely buckled up. Crossing over to Germany, make sure that you can drive fast on the autobahn. More than that, make sure that you have enough gas to get you through. Obstructing traffic – for any reason – can get you fined.

Over in Italy, you cannot enter certain areas unless your car is authorized. Many hotels are located in these areas, so you have to have this information beforehand. Your hotel can help you with this. If you enter these areas, which are marked with white signs with an open red circle, and you are not authorized, you will be fined. Going farther south, in Spain, make sure that you have a spare pair of eyeglasses if you drive with one. The law requires that you have the spare pair in the car with you.

Bottom line: know the rules of the road before even considering driving in a foreign country.

From OffToEurope.com

Who needs Valentine’s Day to take their loved one away for the weekend? You shouldn’t need one special day to want to take him or her away to a romantic city. At any time of year these cities are some of the most romantic destinations in Europe.

1. Paris, France

Paris is one of Europe’s most popular romantic cities – Photo: Vincent Montibus

A great city to spend some quality time with the one you love. Take them up the Eiffel Tower and watch the sunset, walk through Tuileries Garden, the oldest in Paris on the bank of River Seine created in the 16th century, sit to have a picnic or stop for a coffee and croissant in one of the many café’s.

You may also want to take a walk up the Sacre-Coeur Basilica Steps, also visit the Notre Dame de Paris and a must is The Louvre museum, one of the largest in the world and the most visited, houses the Mona Lisa. Don’t forget to go the Paris Opera which shows classic ballets and operas.

2. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague Castle – Photo: Franz St.

This beautiful city is one of my favourites, possibly because my partner took me there for a weekend away. We walked up to Prague castle and admired the view of the city, then walked through the royal gardens and sat for a while. Also at the top with the castle is St Vitus Cathedral, which is so beautiful! Within the city we walked through Wenceslas Square, stopped to pick up a coffee and carried on up to the National Museum Steps. It was wonderful just sitting there, talking and watching the people go by.

Walking Along Charles Bridge was great fun, about half way along there are steps down to a small square, and just a short distance away is a water wheel. Heading over here you will find a bar fence with hundreds of padlocks on it, with initials and names of people “locking their love” for eternity. It was so romantic! Just around the corner from here you will find the most beautiful sight, John Lennon Wall, you will be able to spend hours reading what people have written.

3. Venice, Italy

Venice is a perfect city for a romantic weekend getaway – Photo: bekahpaige

This 117 small islands city just oozes with romance. On leaving the airport you can walk over to the docks and catch a water taxi to anywhere, for which you can actually buy a three day pass. My personal recommendation would be Murano Island as it is much quieter for romantic getaway.

A definite must see is the Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge which offers great views over the Grand Canal, then stop at one of the many small café’s along the river and watch the gondolas go by. One of the best Cathedrals to see if you only have time for one is the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. This huge cathedral has magnificent paintings and statues of angels and other religious figures. Head over to St Mark’s Square and see Patriarchal Cathedral Basilica of Saint Mark, which has beautiful marble floors with animals and geometric designs. The upper order is made of gold, bronze and a large variety of stones with mosaic designs.

Behind the church is Doge’s Palace with beautiful rooms and décor, and you can also walk across the Bridge of Sighs into the prison cells and see carvings of the people that were kept here.

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam’s Singel Canal – Photo: joiseyshowaa

A great city to walk around, Amsterdam has many sights to offer lovers. Visit one of the many museums including the Van Gogh Museum which specialises in the artists work, the NEMO Science museum who’s building looks like a sinking ship and also Anne Frank’s House where she hid from the Nazi persecution at the rear of the building.

Walk across the Magere Brug Bridge, the most famous draw bridge in Amsterdam, which looks beautiful at night and walk along the bank of the river Amstel and stop off in one of the cosy coffee shops or restaurants for some romantic time together.

5. Berlin, Germany

The view from Berlin’s Kollhoff Tower – Photo: manganite

Being Germany’s largest city there are many attractions for you and your loved one to casually stroll through. Here you can enjoy a vibrant and diverse night life, going to some of the many bars and clubs here and dance the night away with your partner close to you.

Make sure you go to Museum Island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the dedicated art and antiquities district. A must see is the most visited zoo in Europe, the Zoologischer Garten Berlin, founded in 1844 and home to some of the most diverse species in the world.

6. Rome, Italy

The beautiful view from Basilica di San Pietro – Photo: Giampaolo Macorig

Rome is definitely in the romantic destination category. It’s one of those cities that is bursting with love. There are so many things to do and see that you will have a very fun packed weekend. Visit the Trevi Fountain where legend has it that if you throw three coins into the fountain it will lead to divorce or marriage! (I hope for the latter!). It is also wonderful to visit the fountain at night as it lights up and looks beautiful. You can also walk through the side streets and discover many small unique shops and maybe stop for some lunch or a cup of coffee while watching the people go by.

Stroll to the Colosseum and take a tour inside one of the greatest works of Roman architecture then admire the Arch of Constantine while making your way to Palatine Hill. The centre-most of the Seven Hills of Rome, according to the Roman Mythology, it was here where Romulus and Remus were found by the she-wolf that had kept them alive. Enjoy a typical Roman dish, Spaghetti Carbonara and play Lady and the Tramp, share some spaghetti and give your partner a cheeky kiss!

7. Bruges, Belgium

A lovely morning in Bruges – Photo: Wolfgang Staudt

The city centre is a World Heritage Site and when you visit you will see why. Most of the medieval architecture in intact so when travelling around the city you will feel like a part of history. Visit the Belfry of Bruges, the city’s most prominent symbol which was formerly a treasury. You can climb to the top and admire views of Bruges.

If you choose to go at the right time, you many be able to have a weekend at one of Bruges many festivals such as September Jazz, BAB-bierfestival (Beer Festival), Summer End Festival or Feest In’t Park, that would be a great weekend for you both to spend together.

8. Barcelona, Spain

Park Güell – Photo: Franz St.

Barcelona offers a wide variety of things to do for all lovers, from lazing on the beach watching the sunset with some champagne to wild water sports. You will always find something to do in Barcelona. Go on a sailing trip along the Costa Dourrada from Barcelona to Sitges and admire the beautiful views from the water.

Once back on dry land there are many delicious restaurants to eat in. Why not take some time to do a spot of shopping? Or why not go to Aqualeon, a safari and water park where you can see many animals such as tigers, elephants, lions and gazelles; and you can enjoy the dolphin shows, stroll through and admire tropical birds and even take a dip in one the many large swimming pools.

9. Budapest, Hungry

Budapest’s Buda Castle – Photo: march25/AnnaZ

Regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Budapest is definitely one to see with your loved one. It has some of the World’s most beautiful Heritage Sites including Buda Castle which was completed in 1265, on the southern tip of Castle Hill.

Hero’s Square which is dedicated to the Seven tribes that founded Hungary and is surrounded by the Museum of Fine are and the Palace of Art, which are also worth a visit. Enjoy the largest thermal water cave system in the world, Szechenyi Thermal Bath, which can be found in City Park, built in 1913, see the second largest synagogue in the world named Dohany Street Synagogue, which seats 3000 people and the third largest parliament in the world. The Hungarian Parliament building is one the oldest buildings and a notable landmark in Hungary, it is beautiful at night so you must go and take a look.

10. Copenhagen, Denmark

Nyhavn is a canal and entertainment district in Copenhagen – Photo: CGoulao

There are some wonderful romantic sights to see in Copenhagen. Visit the Winter garden at Glyptoteket, which houses one of the most extensive collections of sculputres from Danish, French and ancient art. Spend a night at the Opera, by having a romantic dinner and watching the sun set and city light up.

Head to Tivoli Gardens, which is the heart of Copenhagen and has many flowers of all colours of the rainbow and many benches for you to sit down and share a kiss. The final recommendation is to go to The Baroque Park, where you can stroll among the fruit trees and fountains and every Sunday afternoon, live jazz and classical music is played. The perfect end to the weekend.

So you have no excuse to not take your loved one away when there are so many attractions throughout Europe.

What do you think Europe’s most romantic cities or destinations are? Make a comment and let us and everybody know.

This guest post was written by Seetal Udeshi. Seetal is a budding author who is Editor of the Blog for Auto Europe Car Hire UK. When not writing, you’ll probably find her on a beach somewhere sipping a cocktail or five.

Grabbed from link offtoeurope.com:

There is something about castles that inspires awe and at the same time touches a gentler, more romantic side in each of us. And if you want to visit some of the best castles in the world, then Europe should be your destination as this continent certainly has more than its share. Here are the top 25 castles in Europe, in no particular order.

1. Castle Neuschwanstein in Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle

For many of those that see this castle for the first time, they get a niggling feeling that Castle Neuschwanstein looks so familiar. The reason for this is that the castle looks so much like the Disney castle in Florida! Indeed, some have speculated that that castle was modeled after the “real thing” in Germany. One thing is for sure, this massive castle is quite breathtaking! Built in the 1800s, the castle can be found in Schwangau, in the Bavarian Alps.

Photo: visbeek

2. Peles Castle in Romania

Peles Castle

Known as one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, Peles Castle can be discovered in the majestic Carpathian Mountains, near the town of Sinaia, Romania. There are 168 rooms in the castle and only 35 are accessible to the public. Recommended rooms include Holul de Onoare, Sala Mare De Arme, Sala De Teatru and Salonul Turcesc . Unfortunately, guided tours are only available of the ground and first floors. Peles Castle is a must-see destination in Romania.

Photo: Nice2Beat

3. Bojnice Castle in Slovakia

Bojnice Castle

Bojnice Castle is located in Bojnice, Slovakia and is one of the most delightful romantic castles in Europe. The castle dates back to the 12th century and hosts one of the most popular museums in Slovakia. The castle also offers other interesting attractions and hosts many festivals. It is also possible to get married at Bojnice Castle.

Photo: gaga_hifi_nutter

4. Castle of Coco in Spain

Castillo de Coca

Built in the 15th century by the Archbishop of Seville, the incredible Castle of Coca or Castillo de Coca is considered to be one of the best castles in Spain. An excellent example of the Gothic and Mudéjar styles, Coca Castle can be found in the town of Coca in the Segovia province in Spain. Guided tours of the interior, exterior and museum are available and highly recommended.

Photo: karaco1971

5. Brodick Castle in Scotland

Brodick Castle

Situated in the Isle of Arran in Scotland, this castle is one of the oldest. Its roots can be traced back to the time of the Vikings and was in fact built as protection against them. It was the English Dukes of Hamilton that had the fortress built, and over the centuries, generations of the family added on the castle. In 1957, the last Hamilton heir gave up the castle, and visitors can now tour this historic site. Aside from the art collection, there is a rhododendron collection in the garden, which is famous worldwide.

Photo: ayrshireroots

6. Veliki Tabor Castle in Croatia

Veliki Tabor Castle

Built in the 12th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site member, Veliki Tabor Castle is located in beautiful region of Zagorje, Croatia. The castle was once owned by the noble Ratkaj family and the painter Oton Ivekovic. The castle is now owned by the state and is used as a tourist site, museum, the venue for the Tabor film festival and other cultural and leisure events.

Photo: Tracey & Doug

7. Ksiaz Castle in Poland

Ksiaz Castle

Also known as the Pearl of Lower Silesia, Ksiaz Castle was built in the 13th century by Bolko I the Strict. The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the years. It was once confiscated by the Nazis and then occupied by the Red army. Guided tours of the castle for tour groups and individual tourists are available in the spring and summer between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday.

Photo: ukaszSie^back

8. Bran Castle in Romania

Bran Castle

Originally built by the Knights of the Teutonic Order in 1212, Bran Castle is located just outside of Bran, in the Eastern European country of Romania. Set in the hills, this picturesque castle has close ties to the legend of Dracula, and has been converted into a museum popular with tourists visiting the area.

Photo: bugaboy00

9. Lincoln Castle in England

Lincoln Castle

Lincoln Castle is in Lincolnshire and was built in 1068. As with many other European castles, Lincoln Castle is steeped in history, but it has the additional distinction of being one of only two castles in the country that were originally built on two mottes. More than this, Lincoln Castle used to be the home of William the Conqueror.

Photo:  ricklus

10. Eltz Castle in Germany

Burg Eltz Castle

Eltz Castle is situated in the hills between Koblenz and Trier in West Germany.  It is one of the best preserved medieval castles in Germany and has been owned by the same branch of family for over 800 years. Guided tours of the castle are recommended and cost € 8.00 for adults and € 5.50 for children. Eltz Castle is open from April to November and can be visited daily between 9.30am and 5.30pm.

Photo: estebanl

11. Mont Saint-Michel in France

Mont Saint-Michel

Another striking European castle, Mont Saint-Michel near Normandy never fails to impress. It is actually considered to be a medieval wonder, because of the fact that it is built on a rocky peak. Mont Saint-Michel was originally an abbey and served as a popular destination for pilgrims. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in France.

Photo: mbell1975

12. Malbork Castle in Poland

Malbork Castle

Listed as a World Heritage Site in 1997, Malbork castle was founded in Prussia in 1274 by the Teutonic Order. Today, this beautiful Gothic brick castle complex can be visited by taking a short 60 minute trip from Gdansk, Poland. Malbork Castle offers excellent guided tours, permanent and temporary exhibitions as well as archival exhibits.

Photo: Kittroid

13. Castle Frankenstein in Germany

Castle Frankenstein

This castle is so famous because of it’s the myths and stories surrounding in. More than these legends, Frankenstein’s Castle has its own real history. Discover this mysterious castle on your own, and enjoy Frankenstein come to real life.

Photo: fluffisch

14. Castle of Eger in Hungary

Castle of Eger

Castle Eger is one of Hungary’s most popular tourist attractions and is well worth a visit. The castle is about a 90 minute train ride from Budapest. The castle dates back to 13th century and is famous for fending off the massive Turkish army invasion in 1552.  There are four excellent museums in the castle as well as other interesting exhibitions for you to see.

Photo: Azulao

15. Windsor Castle in England

Windsor Castle

Who has not heard of Windsor Castle? Located in the English county of Berkshire, Windsor Castle is one of the most perfectly maintained castles in the world. Of course, the renowned guards who do not flinch are also present here. Even better, the castle is in a quaint little town with everything “English-quaint” to be found here.

Photo: gaga_hifi_nutter

16. Trakai Castle in Lithuania

Trakai Castle

Situated in the town of Trakai in Lithuania,  Trakai Castle is a brilliant example of Gothic architecture. There are actually two castles to see at Trakai – one on an island, and one on the shore of Lake Galve.  The castle hosts an excellent museum that is filled with Lithuanian artifacts and other interesting objects that were discovered on the castle grounds. A day trip from Vilnius to Trakai castle is recommended.

Photo: AnyMotion

17. Spis Castle in Slovakia

Spis Castle

Dating back to the 12th century, Spis Castle is one of largest medieval castles in the Central Europe and is situated above the town of Spišské Podhradie. The castle was declared a national monument in 1961 and was once owned by the Royal Family. Spis Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Photo: nikkaa

18. Hohensalzburg Castle in Austria

Hohensalzburg Castle

Built in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, Hohensalzburg Castle is located in the picturesque Austrian town of Salzburg and is Salzburg’s most popular tourist attraction. This massive fortress sits over the city on Festungsberg hill and is one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. Guided tours with audio in eight languages are available or you can tour the castle at your own leisure.

Photo: kjoch

19. Canterbury Castle in England

Canterbury Castle

Another really really old castle, the Canterbury Castle was built in the 3rd century. As with other castles, Canterbury Castle was added on to over the centuries. And while the castle is not intact anymore, it still is a wonder to behold.

Photo: john stanbridge

20. Predjama Castle in Slovenia

Predjama Castle

Built into a natural rock formation in Slovenia, Predjama Castle is a popular destination for visitors of the area. Now a museum showcasing the life of various medieval lords, Predjama Castle has been rebuilt twice, after experiencing war and natural disaster. This remarkable Renaissance castle is unassuming in its beauty, but is a must-see for enthusiasts

Photo: JumpinJack

21. Pembroke Castle in Wales

Pembroke Castle

Situated on the banks of the River Estuary, Pembroke Castle has tunnels, passageways, and stairways that one can explore. Tudor buffs will also love the fact that Henry Tudor was born here. Another plus: the castle is mostly intact.

Photo: richpix

22. Hunyad Castle  in Romania

Hunyad Castle

Said to be the home of lingering spirits, Hunyad Castle is a relic of the Hunyad dynasty, and situated in Romania. Also known as Hunedora Castle, this magnificent structure was built in the 14th Century in Gothic style, and is famous for supposedly being the home of imprisoned Vlad III for 7 years, before he was dethroned in 1462.

23. Chateau de Versailles in France

Chateau de Versailles

Chateau de Versailles was built as a hunting lodge by Louis the XIII. Soon after, the lodge was upgraded to a castle and became the official residence of the Court of France. Over the years, and many monarchs later, the castle evolved into what it is today.

Photo: Girardon

24. Kyrenia Castle  in Cyprus

Kyrenia Castle

Located on the picturesque northern coast of Cyprus, Kyrenia Castle was built on the eastern side of the village’s harbour. Surviving several small sieges, and a four year long war, this 16th Century castle is one of the main tourist attractions for the area, rich in diverse history.

Photo: Jungle_Boy

25. Prague Castle in the Czech Republic

Prague Castle

This castle is the pride of the Czech Republic’s capital.  Prague Castle has been at the center of the country’s history for the longest time, and continues to be a symbol of its struggles.  The castle, which is known as one of the largest in the world, was built in the ninth century and stands majestic till today.  You can take a guided tour of the Prague Castle every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Tours are offered in six languages: Czech, English, German, Italian, Russian, and Spanish.

Photo: Captain Chaos

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