Freedom Square (Szabadság Tér)

Ideally located on Scotland’s main tourist route to the Isle of Skye, the dramatic setting alone is worth a visit to Eilean Donan, with sweeping views of the lochs, the nearby Isle of Skye, and surrounding Kintail mountains.

In the Carpathian Mountains of Romania’s rural Transylvania, Bran Castle is perhaps better known as “Dracula’s Castle.”

This fairy-tale castle is filled with treasure. Just one example: In the magnificent wood-timbered 14th-century lower hall hangs “Madonna with Child and Grapes,” a masterpiece by Lucas Cranach the Elder.

Perhaps best of all at Château de Beynac is the climb up to the battlements, where you can soak up panoramic views of the snaking Dordogne and green fields.

At Castle of Guimarães, stroll the enormous ramparts and climb the narrow steps to the top of the central tower for eye-popping views of the Ducal Palace and the city below.

This massive castle complex in South Bohemia is one of the largest in Europe.

Rochester Castle captured the imagination of Charles Dickens, who described it in “The Pickwick Papers” as a “glorious pile—frowning walls—tottering arches—dark nooks—crumbling staircases.”

Poland’s Malbork Castle is considered to be the largest brick fortress in the world.

Outside of Dublin, Malahide Castle offers a storybook setting on 260 acres of parkland.

Dating to 1077, this Austrian castle overlooks the Salzach Valley and is surrounded by the Tennen Mountains.

Dating to the 13th century, the Conwy Castle in Wales offers a scenic setting overlooking two rivers, the walled town of Conwy’s harbor, and the surrounding mountains of Snowdonia.

The Netherlands may be better known for its windmills than its castles, but Muiden Castle rivals any of those seen in neighboring Germany.