Castles That Are Now Ruins, Museums, or Hotels

A visit to a castle or palace is often a major highlight for travelers to Eastern Europe. The castles that dot the landscape have become ruins, hotels, or museums, while some still serve government functions—adding both romance and historical significance to the region’s tours.

Some castles sit at the heart of historic centers, whereas others require a trek into the countryside. The ownership may vary, with some still held by aristocratic families, while others transformed into museums that educate visitors about life in the Middle Ages, when they were constructed.

Take a brief journey through the castles you can discover from Poland to Hungary, Romania, and the Czech Republic.

Poland’s Castles

Address: Nowomiejska 15/17, 00-257 Warszawa, Poland

Phone: +48 22 277 44 02

Poland’s landscape is rich with castle museums, castle ruins, and castle hotels. In major cities, such as Warsaw and Krakow, you can visit notable sites like the Warsaw Barbican and the Krakow Barbican, which were constructed to withstand artillery.

Castles have played crucial roles as administrative centers or royal residences, while others, like the 16th-century Janowiec Castle Museum, offer insights into the historical life that once thrived south of Warsaw.

Hungary’s Castles

Address: Budapest, Vajdahunyad sétány, 1146 Hungary

Phone: +36 1 422 0765

Hungary boasts numerous magnificent castles; Vajdahunyad Castle and Buda Castle are significant landmarks in Budapest. Exploring beyond the capital reveals more treasures, such as the Castle of Eger, which is surrounded by wineries and bustling shops.

Additionally, the medieval Castle of Diosgyor, located in Miskolc, offers a cultural hub for concerts and theatrical performances.

Romania’s Castles

Address: Strada Mihai Viteazul 1, Făgăraș 505200, Romania

Phone: +40 368 404 287

Romania’s stunning countryside houses majestic castles with links to its royal past. The influence of Vlad the Impaler, or Dracula, adds an intriguing dimension to many of these sites—especially in Transylvania, which thrills history buffs and adventure seekers alike.

Croatia’s Castles

Address: Hum Košnički 1, 49216, Hum Košnički, Croatia

Phone: +385 49 374 970

Many Croatian castles, like Veliki Tabor in Zagorje, have undergone renovation and modernization over the years. Opened to the public in 2011, Veliki Tabor features an eclectic mix of architectural styles such as late-Gothic and Renaissance. Moreover, Varazdin’s Stari Grad is celebrated for its well-preserved history while housing a museum filled with artifacts from different eras.

Slovakia’s Castles

Address: 811 06 Bratislava-Old Town, Slovakia

Phone: +421 2/204 831 10

Bratislava Castle stands as Slovakia’s most iconic fortress, complemented by other stunning structures like Spis Castle and Bojnice Castle. Spis Castle, despite being a fire victim in 1780, remains one of Europe’s largest castles featuring dramatic ruins, while Bojnice Castle captivates visitors with its fairytale aesthetics and underground caves.

Trakai Castle in Lithuania

Address: Karaimų g. 43C, 21104 Trakai, Lithuania

Phone: +370 665 26240

The Trakai Castle complex, made up of three castles, provides an enticing excursion from Vilnius, located just 17 miles away. These medieval structures illustrate the significant historical and defensive roles they played in Lithuania’s history while also offering outdoor recreational opportunities for hikers and water sports enthusiasts.

Gjirokastra Citadel in Albania

Address: Rruga Elvia Celebi, Gjirokastra, Albania

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gjirokastra is known as the “Museum City.” The 12th-century Gjirokastra Citadel, commonly referred to as the “Silver Fortress,” features five towers, a museum, a clock tower, a church, and other points of interest, making it a must-visit destination.

The Kremlin in Moscow

Address: Moscow, Russia, 103132

Phone: +7 495 697-03-49

The term “kremlin,” signifying “fortress within a city,” perfectly describes the Moscow Kremlin. Enclosed by protective walls, it houses numerous palaces that once served as residences for Russia’s high-ranking leaders, including the Great Kremlin Palace and the Terem Palace, along with the famous Armoury Chamber and cathedrals.

The Czech Republic’s Castles

Address: Karlštejn 172, 267 18 Karlštejn, Czechia

Phone: +420 311 681 617

In the Czech Republic, castles are plentiful, particularly in Prague and the surrounding countryside. Karlstejn Castle, located just outside Prague, serves as a historical landmark, showcasing how the crown jewels were safeguarded by Bohemian kings. Another popular destination includes the stunning 13th-century Cesky Krumlov, offering breathtaking views from its Renaissance-style lookout tower.

Eastern Europe Castle Hotels

Address: Podzamcze 3, 11-440 Reszel, Poland

Phone: +48 89 755 01 09

Experience the luxury of Eastern Europe by staying at castle hotels, where visitors enjoy royal treatment combined with modern amenities. These hotels often feature spas, horseback riding, and stylish accommodations that may reflect authentic antiquities or high-quality replicas. For instance, Reszel Castle in Northern Poland, dating back to the 14th century, has evolved over the years and now provides a unique blend of history and comfort, telling a captivating story through its meticulously preserved structures.