Europe’s grandest castles double as living history lessons, and Prague, Edinburgh, and Salzburg each offer a fortress worth building a trip around.

Prague Castle

Explore the largest ancient castle complex in the world, a sprawling mix of palaces, churches, and gardens overlooking the Vltava River.

Edinburgh Castle

Tour this fortress perched on an extinct volcano at the heart of the Scottish capital, home to the Crown Jewels of Scotland.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Ride the funicular up to one of Europe’s largest intact medieval castles, towering over Salzburg’s old town.

Book Prague Tours & Activities

photoshoot in prague

photoshoot in prague

★ 5.0 (152)
From USD 399.61
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Best of Prague Private Tour with PersonalPragueGuide

Best of Prague Private Tour with PersonalPragueGuide

★ 5.0 (146)
From USD 110.09
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Johnny's Prague Photography Tour

Johnny's Prague Photography Tour

★ 5.0 (92)
From USD 189
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PRIVATE 4 Hour Tour: Czech Beers & Tapas in Prague's Local Areas

PRIVATE 4 Hour Tour: Czech Beers & Tapas in Prague's Local Areas

★ 5.0 (90)
From USD 183.5
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Prague Photo Tours

Prague Photo Tours

★ 5.0 (89)
From USD 268.53
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Prague Highlights in Half a Day

Prague Highlights in Half a Day

★ 5.0 (64)
From USD 323.36
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Practical Tips

  • Research castle visits in advance so you know what to prioritize once you arrive.
  • Book popular activities ahead of time, especially during peak travel season.
  • Allow flexibility in your itinerary in case weather or local conditions change your plans.

FAQ

Which of these destinations is best for first-timers?
Prague is a solid starting point thanks to its accessibility and range of activities, though all three destinations suit different travel styles.

How much time should I budget for a trip like this?
A week to ten days allows time to properly experience one or two of these destinations without rushing.

Final Thoughts

Prague, Edinburgh, Salzburg each bring something different to this list, and any one of them makes a rewarding trip on its own.