Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

I have to admit, I am enchanted with castles. Each one with its own unique features, enchanting beauty, and rich history is exhilarating. If you are looking for a fairytale type of experience, interested in some of the most amazing architecture ever seen, or fascinated by the unique history and legends that surround castles, a European river cruise is the perfect way to do it!

Explore Castles on a Viking or Avalon River Cruise

Marksburg Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Marksburg Castle: Located off the Rhine River in Germany you will find the beautiful Marksburg Castle. This medieval castle was said to be built around 1117; although not clearly mentioned until 1231. Marksburg is the only hill castle on the Rhine that hasn’t been destroyed by war or disaster. Inside this castle you will find some of the original décor dated back to the origination of this castle and learn about its architectural design and history.

Heidelberg Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Heidelberg Castle: This beautiful Renaissance castle screams romanticism and its magnificent beauty attracts thousands of visitors each year. The rich history behind this castle will keep you intrigued throughout the entire tour. First mentioned in 1225, this stunning structure has witnessed its share of natural disasters and war. Although only partially rebuilt this castle is still awe inspiring and one of the most amazing Renaissance pieces of the Northern Alps.

Reichsburg Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Reichsburg Castle: Visit Reichsburg Castle in Germany off of the Mosel River to witness a beautifully restored medieval castle. At Reichsburg you will find the largest hill castle on the Mosel River. Dating back to around 1100 A.D. this castle has a vast history and several legends. Although rebuilt in 1868 by Louis Ravené as a summer retreat for his family, the castle still holds some of its original Romanesque and Gothic elements.

Neuschwanstein Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Neuschwanstein Castle: Also known as the New Swanstone castle, this Romanesque Revival style castle is one of the most famous castles in the world. It has been featured in several movies and motivated the look of the castle in Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Its fairytale design and magnificent views have fascinated people since it opened to the public in 1886. Built by Lugwitz II construction on this renowned castle began in 1869 on top of the castle ruins of Hohenschwangau. Although not as rich in history as many of the other castles in Europe the beauty is awe-inspiring. Located along the Rhine River this is a popular tour spot for Viking and Avalon.

Bran Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Bran Castle: Both Viking and Avalon offer a 3 night extended stay in Bucharest where you can take a guided tour through the famous Bran Castle, or shall I say Dracula’s Castles. Built in 1377, this is castle is said to be the castle of inspiration for Stokers Count Dracula novel. Here you will find secret passageways, beautiful garden surroundings, and some of the most amazing history a castle has to offer. Bran Castle is lavish with its myths, vast history, and captivating legends.

Peles Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Peles Castle: Also available with a 3 night extended stay in Bucharest you can tour the gorgeous Peles Castle. This amazing Romanian castle is considered to be one of the most beautiful of the European castles. Built in 1873 this castle is known as the summer home for the royals. One of the most interesting features of this castle is its beautiful and vast amounts of paintings and artifacts on display for visitors.

Prague Castle. – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Prague Castle: According to the Guinness Book of Records Prague Castle is the largest castle in the world. It is now home to the office of the President of the Czech Republic but tours are still available daily. Construction of Prague began in 870 and has undergone several renovations since. Visitors will have the opportunity to see several styles of architecture that have been added throughout the hundreds of years it has been operational.

Highclere Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Highclere Castle: You may recognize this castle from the hit television show Downtown Abbey. This castle is built on the foundation of a medieval palace owned by the Bishop of Winchester. However, this castle has been owned by the Earls of Carnarvon since 1679. The castle is open to the public during the summer months and has continued to gain fame from the popular television show.

Mont Saint-Michel Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Mont Saint-Michel Castle: One of the most popular tourist attractions in France and located very close to Normandy stands this magnificent castle. Mont Saint-Michel is said to originally be erected as a church in 709 by request of the Archangel Michel. Its location on a rocky island near Normandy has helped to make this castle a stronghold for battles, such as the hundred year war, over its history.

Hohensalzburg Castle – Explore Castles on Viking or Avalon European River Cruises

Hohensalzburg Castle: Located in Salzburg, Austria this medieval castle is one of the largest in Europe. Built in 1077, this enormous fortress has been subject to several expansions to throughout its centuries for protection but only came under siege once in its history. It was refurbished in the 19^th century and has since become a major tourist attraction.

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