Visit these castles in Poland to get a behind-the-scenes look at living like a royal.
When planning a trip to Europe, many travelers will disregard Poland as a destination not worth visiting. However, more discerning travelers will learn that Poland is more than its troublesome history. When you combine the cheap costs, great nightlife, and the unique historical attractions, Poland becomes a worthwhile destination. There are many interesting places to visit in Poland, and an abundance of beautiful and ornate castles to be explored. Indeed, these castles make up some of the most famous landmarks in Poland. If you’re interested in learning a bit of history and want to feel the magic of days past, then you’ll want to plan a trip to all the major castles in Poland. Not sure where to begin? Not to worry, we’ve done the work for you and found some of the best castles in Poland worth visiting.
9 Fairytale Castles in Poland To Visit
Wander through these majestic castles and be enchanted by their grandeur
- The Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow
- The Royal Castle in Warsaw
- Moszna Castle
- Ksiaz Castle
- Malbrok Castle
- Niedzica Castle
- Lańcut Castle
The Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow
Just south of Krakow’s Old Town, The Wawel Royal Castle was established in the 16th century, and a is made up of both a castle and cathedral. Currently, the Krakow castle is used as a museum containing various exhibits where you can see the crown jewels, royal private apartments, state rooms, the armory, and an art exhibit. If you’d like to take in the view of the gorgeous castle from a distance, you’ll enjoy strolling through the castle grounds and gardens to admire the mix of European architectural styles. This is definitely one of the most impressive places to see in Krakow!
The Royal Castle in Warsaw
Located in Castle Square in the Old Town, this castle was once the official residence of Polish monarchs and is definitely one of the more important places to see in Warsaw. Originally established in the 14th century, the castle was expanded once Warsaw became the capital of Poland in the late 16th century, and then reconstructed after it was destroyed in WWII. The castle is open to visitors and features a regal ballroom with ornate chandeliers, a throne room, bedrooms fit for royalty, and rooms full of important cultural artwork.
Moszna Castle
One of the most well-known and undoubtedly beautiful castles in the country, the Moszna Castle in Poland is definitely worthy of a detour. Built in the 17th century and featuring 99 turrets, 365 rooms, and Elizabethan-era styled architecture, its not hard to feel like you’ve been transported to the setting of a fairy tale when you visit. After you’ve finished exploring the extravagant castle, wander around the grounds and enchanting park where you’ll find boundless paths, beautiful trees and flowers, and quaint ponds.
Ksiaz Castle
If you’re seeking out something a little more mysterious, then this is the castle in Poland for you to visit. Shrouded in legend and conspiracy theory, this picturesque 13th century Gothic-style castle sits among a scenic mountainous and forested area. During WWII, the Nazi’s overtook the castle and forced prisoners to build massive underground tunnels beneath the castle. The project was never completed, and to this day historians speculate what the use of these tunnels would have been. Popular theories include that it would have become Adolf Hitler’s headquarters, and the tunnels were to serve as a place to hide, or that they were built to store Nazi treasures.https://www.instagram.com/p/BO-cZ0ahumH/?taken-by=groundupstudio
Malbork Castle
This Medieval brick castle in the north of Poland was built in the 13th century and is an example of the unique architecture of the Teutonic Order. The castle was restored both in the 19th and 20th centuries, and then again after the war. Inside the castle, you’ll find an impressive collection or armor, an amber museum, charming courtyards, and enough rooms to get thoroughly lost. When measured by land, the Malbrok castle in Poland is the largest in the world!
Niedzica Castle
Built in the 14th century, the Niedzica castle is perched on a hill overlooking a forest and the Dunajec River. Signs leading up to the castle warn visitors of its haunting. According to legend, one of the princes who lived in the castle traveled to Peru and fell in love with an Inca princess. He brought her back to Poland with her Inca treasure and they lived in the castle, until she was murdered by a treasure hunter. It is said that her ghost now haunts the castle in order to deter thieves. Many believe that somewhere in this castle is an ancient Inca treasure map leading to the princess’s hidden gold. However, if you’re not looking for gold, you can still enjoy the detailed archaeological museum inside the castle.
Lancut Castle
This 17th century residential castle has accommodated many different royals and aristocrats over the years. The castle features a classical Ball Room with a crystal chandelier, which still features musical performances to this day. The castle also contains a theater, a large variety of preserved artwork and furniture, and a huge collection of books. Outside of the castle, you’ll find stables and carriage houses, grounds lined with linden trees, and a greenhouse containing over 900 species of plants.
Nowy Wisnicz Castle
Dating back to the 14th century, this Castle was built in traditional Baroque structure with four turrets and a courtyard. Throughout the years, the castle was renovated and other wings for residences were added on. It is worth walking around the grounds to admire the enormous structure of the castle from afar. The castle is now used as a museum and is open for visitors who wish to explore its interior.
Goluchow Castle
A 16th century Renaissance castle built in Medieval tradition consisting of a tower house and four turrets. Since then, the castle has changed hands and was renovated in French Renaissance style. The castle is now home to a museum that exhibits ancient vases, Gothic artwork, and royal portraits. Of course, visitors to the castle can also admire furniture and paintings and ornamental decor dating from the 16th-18th centuries.
Now that you know our top picks for castles in Poland, you’re ready to explore them for yourselves. We’re sure that any of the castles you visit will make you feel like royalty for a day. Use our itinerary planner to plan our your castle-hopping route!
