World Castles & palaces, Central + People pictures

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, nestled between extinct volcanoes and hills, is almost fairytale in appearance, with its medieval buildings in the Old Town and the wide streets and spacious homes Georgian New Town, and the spectacular castle looking down from its cliff. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995, which only begs the question: why did it take so long?

See how this former fishing village has transformed into a stunning Caribbean destination centered on the acclaimed Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

With gorgeous countryside, cultural cities and charming villages along its shores, the largest lake in Switzerland and France is a vacationer’s dream.

Witness the breathtaking beauty of the region at the end of the world, where the rocky faces of the Andes mountains tower over glaciers, rivers and forests.

Street markets and sparkling malls, parks, nightlife districts and museums await at this bustling boulevard, which is one of Thailand’s longest roads.

One of the world’s smallest countries lies within eastern Italy’s countryside. Visit the longstanding city-state for natural beauty, culture and food specialties.

Puerto Escondido’s liveliest beach offers attractions year-round with its big waves, international surf competitions, folk festivals and pulsating nightlife.

Peek inside regal palaces, courtyards and temples, spot beautiful artwork and learn about Jodhpur’s royal history at this magnificent 15th-century fortress.

Sample seafood in the quaint towns and cities of this diverse country where you can explore an eclectic terrain featuring mountains, desert regions and coastal wonderlands.

Explore dozens of elegant rooms, meander through manicured Victorian gardens and watch falcon flying demonstrations at this castle complex.

Discover powerful ideas while exploring futuristic landscapes, diverse monuments and phenomenal Oscar Niemeyer constructions in Brazil’s dynamic Federal District. 

Stunning beaches, rolling waves, water sports, jungle treks and superb restaurants await visitors at this stylish getaway on the Pacific coast.

Explore this mysterious Gothic castle and discover the eerie stories connected to its long history.

From skiing and tubing to hiking, climbing and sailing, the wild mountainous scenery of this alpine resort town offers a variety of summer and winter pursuits.

Discover the wilderness landscapes and crystal clear waters of the northwestern region of Western Australia. 

Explore dozens of elegant rooms, meander through manicured Victorian gardens and watch falcon flying demonstrations at this castle complex.

Swim beneath the cascades of a series of waterfalls that plunge into a pristine basin after you take a scenic drive that follows the Langevin River.

A setting in one of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedies, this crenellated castle sits on a hill overlooking the River Ness.

Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton are just some of the big names of fashion that you’ll find in one of the world’s oldest shopping centers.

Look for rainbows in the rushing cascade, trek across a glacier and learn about Icelandic traditions around this town.