In this article, we are going to discuss the 5 countries with the most beautiful castles in the world. If you want to check out our detailed analysis of the global tourism industry, the revival of the tourism sector, the largest travel company in the world, and the investment in heritage tourism, head to 15 Countries with the Most Beautiful Castles in the World.
5. England
Insider Monkey Score: 13
England has a history that spans many thousands of years, and so the imposing hilltop fortresses, rugged coastal ruins, and stumpy hidden remnants dotted throughout the country come as no surprise to anyone. Best known for the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, Tintagel Castle is situated in Cornwall, in the northwest corner of the country. With its dramatic clifftop setting above the rocks and foaming breakers of the north Cornish coast, Tintagel is definitely a Castle Worth a Visit.
The United Kingdom, with its thousands of castles littered across the lands, is the Country with the 2nd Most Castles in the World.
4. Spain
Insider Monkey Score: 14
Not only flamenco dancing, football clubs, mesmerizing food, stunning art, and distinctive folklore, but Spain is also popular for its fascinating heritage sites, particularly its castillos. The ‘Alcázar’ in Segovia is one of the most famous monuments in the Mediterranean country. It was originally a Muslim fortress in the 11th century, later modified and enlarged by Christian kings.
In 2022, the Spanish Government announced an investment of €35 million ($37.9 million) for the maintenance and rehabilitation of the country’s historical heritage for tourism use.
3. Japan
Insider Monkey Score: 16
There are many good reasons to visit Japan – colorful shrines, maiko and geisha culture, and the multi-course kaiseki ryori meals are top of the list for many. But with its rich and artistic feudal history, The Land of the Rising Sun is dotted with hundreds of castles scattered throughout the country, from Goryo-kaku in Hokkaido to Shuri Castle in Okinawa.
The 17th century Himeji Castle, with its pure white-plastered walls, is one of the most spectacular castles in Japan. Even though it is a remarkable defensive structure with highly developed systems and ingenious protection devices, the castle still doesn’t come across as intimidating or imposing, but rather graceful, as is typical of traditional Japanese architecture.
2. Germany
Insider Monkey Score: 17
Visiting Germany is like stepping into a real life fairy tale. Whilst there are thousands of castles scattered around the country, some of these are specifically classed as fairytale castles, and the most well-known is perhaps Neuschwanstein Castle, known for being the inspiration behind King Stefan’s castle in Sleeping Beauty due to its sheer beauty and impressive architecture.
1. France
Insider Monkey Score: 19
France has always been the very definition of history, elegance, and culture. Although castles are meant to be fortifications against incoming invasions, the French château is less about keeping out and more about showing off. Ornamental moldings, decorative sculptures, and decadent gardens swath these royal residences in elegance and prestige.
France earned a record $65.24 billion in revenue from tourism in 2022, a $1.35 billion increase from its pre-pandemic level of 2019.
France is the Country with the Most Beautiful Castles in our list.
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