There are hundreds ofcastles in Europe, each worthy of its very own fairy tale.

These magnificent structures have survived wars, fires, dozens of generations, and stood the test of time.

Here are 20 lesser-known castles in Europe that belong on every traveler’s itinerary.

Eltz Castle Germany

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All it’s crucial that you do is hike to the top of the mini-mountain it calls home first.

The castle offers daily tours, though it does operate on a seasonal schedule and closes for inclement weather.

Visitors canexplore the castleand its grounds year-round except for Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Pena palace Sintra Portugal

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Each of its 160 rooms are decorated with European art, German stained-glass windows, and leather walls.

The home, however, is not faring as well as others.

The mix oflate Gothic and early Renaissancearchitecture gives the castle a unique look.

Alcazar of Segovia Spain Castle

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Castle in Malbork, Poland

Malbork Castle is a 13th-century fortified monastery belonging to the Teutonic Order.

Kylemore Abbey, Ireland

Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden is just one hour fromGalway, Ireland.

The castle covers approximately 40,000 square feet and has more than 70 rooms.

Greece Astypalaia island Mediterranean Sea Chora of Astypalea

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Visitors are invited tohistory talksthat take place multiple times a day in the Abbey.

Tours of the Walled Garden take place throughout the summer.

The castle’s thick sandstone walls, moat, and unique triangular shape make it the perfect stronghold.

Hohenwerfen Castle Austria

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The castle also maintains anature trailthat connects with other walking routes created by the estate.

Orebro Castle, Sweden

Orebro Castle is situated on an island in the river Svartan.

For those looking for a little fright, the castle invites visitors to try theghost tour.

Dunnottar castle North sea, Scotland

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It stayed within the Draskovic family until World War II.

Inside, the castle contains examples of baroque furniture and different weapons used from the 15th to 19th centuries.

Outside, stunning gardens and a large lakewelcome visitorsyear-round.

Castle De Haar Netherlands

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The castle isopen to visitors daily.

Thelarge castlethat once stood is now reduced to ruins, but that doesn’t make it any less appealing.

Castel del Monte Italy

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Chillon Castle Switzerland

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Gripsholm Castle Stockholm Sweden

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Peles Castle Romania

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Neuschwanstein castle up on a mountain

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chenonceau castle loire valley france

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Castle of Malbork Poland

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kylemore abbey Connemara ireland

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Caerlaverock Castle Scotland

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Orebro Castle Sweden

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Trakoscan Castle Croatia

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Castle of Ravadinovo Bulgaria In Love with the Wind

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Tintagel Castle Ruins England

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