THE BEST EUROPEAN

C A S T L E S TO V I S I T

BEST EUROPEAN CASTLES

The ancient castles of Europe are a

remarkable window to the past for
visitors on a European river cruise who
want to go beyond shopping and
dining. Representing vast changes in
culture, architecture, and history, they
invite us to see how historys rich and
famous lived in their own time and
place. Each castle is distinct, most

with a full roster of wine festivals and

events that reflect local traditions and
the changing of the seasons.

TO

VISIT

N EUSCHWANSTEIN C ASTLE

Rising gracefully above Hohenschwangau

Valley in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein

Castle evokes everyones vision of a
fairytalejust as it did for Walt Disney, who
took it as inspiration for his Sleeping Beauty

Castle. Built by the 19th century King of

Bavaria, known as Mad King Ludwig II, the
castle was a tribute to composer Richard
Wagner. Poor Ludwig died before its
completion, but today, visitors view its
restored splendor and admire its stunning
artworks and furnishings.

PRAGUE CASTLE
Extraordinary even among the many European castles, Prague is the largest. It is also one
of the oldest, dating back a thousand years to early Czech rulers. Within its grounds,

visitors wander gardens, palaces and museums, and tour famous St. Vitus Cathedral. As
much a self-contained city as a castle, its famous residences and workshops include the
house of writer Franz Kafka. Showing the progression of architecture and history through
time, it serves as a venue for lively cultural events all year.

BUDA CASTLE
An ideal spot to see the two sides of
this historic city, Buda and Pest lie

across the Danube River. The castles

history transcends time, and the
passage of many cultures. Within the
castle youll find multiple palaces, as

well as galleries and churches.

Originally occupied in the 13th century,
the Baroque era saw its blossoming,
together with the entire Castle Hill
area. Despite near-total destruction of
Buda during World War II, many historic
buildings survive, including houses
from the 14th century.

LES BAUX

DE

PROVENCE

A visit to the Chateau des Baux de Provence offers a rare interactive experience.

Seemingly carved out of stone beginning in the 10th century, it was expanded until its
destruction in the 17th century. Visitors are entertained with frequent events recreating
medieval life. Try your hand at crossbow shooting or watch as ancient catapults are
fired. Known for songs of courtly love sung to castle maidens, todays Chateau des Baux
provides an entertaining chance to time-travel in breathtaking surroundings.

HEIDELBERG CASTLE

Visit Heidelberg Castle in historic Speyer. Buildings were constructed in varying periods
around a courtyard and garden, with amazing views of the area. See the famous

Heidelberg Tun, the worlds largest wine barrel, from 1751. The Apothecary Museum
contains a complete pharmacists office and medicines from the 17th century forward.
Summer fireworks commemorate the castles periodic destruction through time.

H OHENWERFEN F ORTRESS

Journey high above the Salzach valley

to the 900-year-old Hohenwerfen
Fortress. See impressive fortifications
and the historic weaponry and bell
tower. Rooms occupied by the
castles regents are beautifully
preserved, along with the chapel and
many furnishings. Enjoy traditional
falconry demonstrations, and check

for the full schedule of seasonal

events and explorations that bring
this magical setting to life.

C H AT E A U

Originally a hunting lodge for the

Sun King, Louis XIVs Palace of
Versailles exceeds all superlatives.
Its gilded halls, glittering
chandeliers, and mirrors tell of
lavish royal life in the 17th
century. Explore the extensive
grounds and smaller palaces,
including Marie Antoinettes Petit

Trianon. As famous as the palaces,

the extensive Gardens and Park
have been largely restored to their
original beauty.

DE

VERSAILLES

C O N TA C T U S

AmaWaterways is an award-winning river cruise operator, providing all-inclusive excursions

that open cultural doors along the great waterways of Europe, Asia and Africa. Our rapidly
growing fleet of custom-designed ships leads travelers to life-changing, restorative

experiences that always exceed expectations. For more information, please visit
www.amawaterways.com.