Editor

12 Christmas destinations at European castles and palaces in 2026

Every December, Europe's palaces and castles put on their seasonal finery: traditional markets in the forecourt, dressed state rooms, candlelit concerts and fairy like light trails through the gardens. Here are some of the best Christmas destinations at castles and palaces in Europe in 2026. / READ MORE /

News

These Polish castles are worth visiting

When you think of castles in Poland, what comes to mind first? Many people will mention Wawel Castle in Krakow. It’s an impressive castle, but there are many more. Here are 5 you shouldn’t miss when visiting Poland. / READ MORE /

News

Wildfires reach the edge of Château de Fontainebleau as gardens close

A devastating forest fire has broken out within roughly one kilometre of the Château de Fontainebleau, near Paris, forcing the closure of the palace gardens as two blazes in the surrounding forest have now burned some 1,920 hectares. / READ MORE /

Places, Travel

Best less known European castles to visit in summer

Europe’s medieval historic castles were built for power and permanence not for comfort. But their thick stone walls, shaded courtyards, and forest parks make them among the coolest places. These ten castles and palaces offer genuine relief from the heat, alongside world-class architecture, gardens, and interesting culture. 1. Bouzov Castle – Czech Republic Deep in... / READ MORE /

The magnificent Prague Castle from where you have a wonderful view of the old city (image: Pexels)

Travel

Less well-known, but just as beautiful: 5 castles near Prague

Prague is surrounded by some of the most beautiful castles in Europe, but most visitors never make it past the city walls. Many have heard of Karlštejn, but Bohemia has so much more beauty to offer! There are more than 2,000 castles in the Czech Republic. Here are five of them near Prague. / READ MORE /

Château de Courson (photo: Lusseau Pascale, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Gardens, Guided visits, News, Places, Travel

The Château de Courson, near Paris, reopens for the season

Just 35 kilometres from the French capital, a listed historic monument surrounded by extraordinary gardens is welcoming visitors once again. The Domaine de Courson is set within grounds holding the prestigious Jardin Remarquable label, has reopened to the public from April 2026 through to 1 November. / READ MORE /

Events & Programs, News, Travel

Castle of Fontainebleau brings 18th‑century court life to life

Château de Fontainebleau is dedicating its 2026 season to celebrating Marie‑Antoinette and King Louis XVI. Visitors are invited to step into the world of 18th‑century court life with original décor, historical reenactments and festive events. The programming combines immersive interiors, costumed gatherings and outdoor activities that echo the lifestyle of France’s last royal couple before the Revolution. / READ MORE /

Inverness Castle (Dave Conner from Inverness, Scotland, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

News

Revamped Inverness Castle reopens for visitors

According to the BBC, Inverness Castle has officially reopened following a major £47 million transformation that repositions the historic landmark as a leading cultural and visitor destination in the Scottish Highlands. / READ MORE /

Fasanerie Castle in Germany (photo: Gerd Eichmann, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons)

News, Places

German Schloss Fasanerie may be taken over by the state

The future of Schloss Fasanerie, one of Germany's many Baroque palaces, has become the subject of cultural and political discussion. The debate follows an initiative by the current owner, which has proposed a greater role for the state in the stewardship of its historic castles, parks and museum collections. / READ MORE /

Château d’Amboise (photo: Laure GREGOIRE via Pixabay)

News

Archaeologists find clues to a lost staircase at Château d’Amboise

LOIRE VALLEY, France - Archaeologists at Château d’Amboise have begun uncovering the buried remains of a monumental Renaissance staircase long lost to history. The excavation aims to locate and study what was once one of the castle’s most striking architectural features: a vast external staircase known as the escalier Persé. / READ MORE /

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