16 Most Beautiful Castles in Poland

Castles have long captured the imagination of young and old alike. They embody Renaissance glamour and stand at the center of classic fairy tales. But they don’t always stand beyond accessibility. In Poland, you’ll find grandiose palaces, Gothic castles, and medieval fortress ruins waiting for you to explore.


These historic constructions are a living timeline of Poland’s Middle Ages and Renaissance history. Each ancient tower and classic ballroom guide you as far back as the 13th century. You’ll then embark on a roller coaster journey of victory and defeat that showcases the ever-changing fortunes of Polish rulers. On your next trip to this historic country, make time to see as many of the following castles in Poland as possible.


16. Bobolice Castle

There are many Polish Jura fortresses, all set along the Eagle’s Nest Trail, but Bobolice may be the most complete. Making use of the surrounding limestone hills, Bobolice Castle’s white walls contrast beautifully with the green landscape.


This is all thanks to private investment, that turned back the clock on this majestic castle and transformed it back to its pre-ruinous state. Today, a drawbridge and gated entrance welcomes you. Once you go beyond the fortified walls, the castle rises up in front of your eyes, embodying the might of medieval nobility. It’s hard to imagine that in 1683, the Polish king had to sleep in a tent while visiting.




15. Checiny Castle

A regal gem in the heart of the Świętokrzyskie region, Checiny Castle, is an imposing sight. The castle dates back to the late 1200s and is a living testament to the region’s architectural mastery.


Starting so long ago, it’s no surprise Checiny Castle has seen so much in 700+ years. The castle witnessed ample victories, became a prison for nobles, and protected the crown treasury. But Swedish ruin and WWI didn’t help its fate.


Today it’s a mix of ruins and old tales that showcase Checiny’s heritage. The castle is also shrouded in mystique as it’s home to the spirit of Queen Bona, who eternally searches for her lost treasure.


14. Pieskowa Skala Castle

Not far from Krakow, the Pieskowa Skala Castle lies in well-maintained beauty. A traditional home of Polish noble families, the castle is one of the country’s best examples of Renaissance brilliance.


Found along the Eagle’s Nest Trail, Pieskowa Skała Castle’s burnt orange roofs and green spires stand above a rocky outcrop. The steep surrounding slopes grant the castle an immense aura, elevated by its Renaissance courtyard and elegant facade.


Today, you can explore the castle grounds and its impressive interior. The most memorable aspect being the two-level loggia, embellished with sightly decor alongside the captivating views of the neighboring canyon.


13. Łańcut Castle

In southeastern Poland, the Łańcut Castle is the embodiment of 17th-century sophistication. The castle was commissioned by the Potocki family, one of the country’s most influential families. Today, it’s a reminder of their opulent history.


Large, manicured grounds surround Łańcut Castle. They welcome you as you wander towards the castle, whose green towers immediately capture your attention. But it’s the castle’s interior that has elevated Łańcut’s reputation.


Once inside, you can explore the Potoki family museum, laden with fascinating artifacts. All before exploring the grandiose ballroom with stunning chandeliers that are like suns, dangling from the ceiling painted with clouds.

12. 
Mirów Castle

Alongside Bobolice Castle and Ostrężnik, the Mirów Castle is the centerpiece of the Eagles Nest. This is a collection of medieval fortresses strategically placed atop limestone hills. While you can visit them all along the Eagle’s Nest Trail, Mirów Castle’s ruinous Gothic architecture stands out.


First constructed in the 1300s, Mirów Castle features old dungeons, tumbling towers, and an ancient facade that has seen better days. But it’s the obvious age and slight lean of the castle that makes it so fascinating, as it raises more questions than answers. We can only look and wonder about the stories of victory and defeat that stem from these hallowed walls.


11. Rabsztyn Castle

Near Olkusz, atop the limestone bluffs, Rabsztyn Castle lies in sightly ruin. The ancient limestone blocks are returning to mere rocks while the green crawls up the side. The castle is surrounded by gorgeous fields and lush woods, where the calls of ravens float through the air.


Rabsztyn Castle roughly translates to Raven Rock, and while its beginnings are shrouded in mystery, its military might is well documented. It began to fall into ruin in the 17th century thanks to the Swedish deluge. But modern restoration has created a nice blend of ruinous magic and a glimpse into Rabsztyn Castle’s heyday.

10. Ksiaz Castle

As the third-largest of all castles in Poland, Ksiaz Castle is also known as the Pearl of Upper Silesia. Erected in the 13th century, Ksiaz has undergone countless regime changes and has been the site of many historical agreements.

Everyone from Russian czars and British dignitaries have spent the night in this historic castle. Today, Ksiaz Castle offers several guided tours each day, and there are even multiple restaurants within the castle walls where you can dine surrounded by centuries-old art and architecture.

9. Bolkow Castle

In the Lower Silesian Voivodeship is Bolkow Castle, a 13th century structure built as a strong but rather plain stone fortress. In the 16th century, the castle got an upgrade, when an architect named Jakub Parr added some Renaissance touches to Bolkow Castle. This enormous castle was used primarily by monks for centuries, but now it is known for hosting events and even an annual rock music festival.

8. Czocha Castle

You might have heard of Czocha Castle recently, because it is sometimes referred to as the Polish Hogwarts. In recent years, this Polish castle has been the site of live-action wizard role playing games, and it goes by the nickname, “The College of Wizardry”. However, the history of Czocha Castle dates well beyond Harry Potter.

Built in the 13th century, Czocha Castle is a defensive castle erected right on gneiss rock for longevity. While ransacked during and after World War II, the castle has since been refurbished and transformed into an incredible tourism hotspot.

7. Ogrodzieniec Castle

In the 14th century, the Sulimczyk family decided to construct the incredible Ogrodzieniec Castle. While it was a remarkable structure in its prime, the castle began to fall to ruin by the 19th century. After World War II, steps were taken to prevent the castle’s complete collapse.

Today, you can tour the spooky and surreal ruins. You might recognize Ogrodzieniec Castle, because the iconic structure has served as the backdrop for many things, including an Iron Maiden music video in 1984.

6. Kwidzyn Castle

The Gothic Kwidzyn Castle is an example of architecture from the Teutonic Knights. After it was built in the 13th century, it served as the residence for Pomesanians, a Prussian clan. It has a stunning and unusual design thanks to a bridge that connects to the castle and serves as a sewer tower as well as a way to cross the adjacent river. You’ll definitely want to explore Kwidzyn Castle to tour the underground medieval crypts, the museum and the cathedral.

5. Bedzin Castle

In the 11th century, a wooden castle was erected in the town of Bedzin in Southern Poland. By the 14th century, it was replaced with a stone version, the castle that still stands today. Multiple stone walls protect the interior residences and courtyard, which was instrumental in the many battles and sieges taking place at Bedzin.

Bedzin was ravaged by Swedish military forces in the 17th century, and then once again by the Nazis during World War II, when the local Jewish population was targeted. Although connected with a sad history, Bedzin Castle is a poignant reminder of Poland’s past.

4. Wawel Royal Castle

When Krakow served as Poland’s capital city, the Wawel Royal Castle was the residence of the Polish Royals. From the 14th through to the 18th centuries, Wawel Royal Castle was home to countless monarchs. Built on a bluff called Wawel Hill, the castle offers stunning panoramic views over the city below.

Today, the Wawel Royal Castle boasts its original Romanesque design as well as some updated Renaissance features. It also serves as a museum where you can see the royal jewels and other important Polish artifacts.

3. Moszna Castle

Found in Poland’s Upper Silesia region, Moszna Castle was built in the 17th century in the traditional Baroque style. In the years since, however, additions have included a Gothic-style wing and a Renaissance wing. With 99 spires, Moszna Castle looks like the quintessential fairytale castle, and it has served as the backdrop for countless films and photoshoots thanks its stunning appearance.

2. Malbork Castle

Between the 13th and the 15th centuries, Malbork Castle was constructed by knights of the Teutonic Order. The castle itself was not just intended to be a private residence: It also served as a fortress. As a result, Malbork Castle is incredibly large, and is today one of the largest medieval castles in Europe.

The Gothic castle is situated on a peninsula between two rivers, making it a fantastic spot for defense. Every year, the castle plays host to a reenactment of the Battle of Grunwald, a significant battle that took place in 1410.

1. Niedzica Castle

In the 13th century, Niedzica Castle was built in the very south of Poland. It is situated at a significant elevation, indicating it was used for military purposes as well as a private residence. Today, Niedzica Castle is known for more than just its historic architecture.

On tours of the castle, you can dress in traditional monk’s robes and dine on an authentic medieval feast, using just your hands and old-fashioned wooden utensils rather than modern metal cutlery. There are often jousting competitions and medieval dancing to accompany these frequent feasts designed to offer a glimpse of the past in Poland.

Map of Polish Castles