Medieval Europe route: 13 places from Dubrovnik to Colmar

Explore 13 iconic medieval destinations across Europe spanning 4,359.7 km, from Dubrovnik's Adriatic walls and Prague's Charles Bridge to San Gimignano's towering hills, Český Krumlov Castle, and charming towns like Rothenburg, Colmar, and Rovinj. This route connects fortress cities, castles, and preserved old towns that shaped medieval European architecture and history.

Mode
Places
Start
Dubrovnik - Adriatic Medieval Town
End
Rothenburg - Medieval Old Town
Stops
13
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Dubrovnik - Adriatic Medieval Town — Magical medieval town on the Adriatic coast in southern Croatia
  2. Prague, Czech Republic — Gothic and Baroque capital where Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square showcase centuries of architectural splendor and medieval heritage.
  3. Český Krumlov Castle — Castle around which the town arose around the year 1240; owned by the Rosenberg family for 300 years
  4. San Gimignano - Medieval Hill Town — Stunning medieval city perched upon a hill in Tuscany
  5. San Marino — Historic republic visited near San Gimignano in Italy
  6. Rothenburg, Germany — Walled medieval town with intact fortifications, half-timbered buildings, and cobblestone streets representing perfectly preserved German Renaissance culture.
  7. Hohenschwangau Castle — Fairy tale location in Germany built in the beginning of the 12th century
  8. Colmar, France — Alsatian town featuring colorful canal-side houses, narrow streets, and Germanic-French architectural blend in the heart of wine country.
  9. Riquewihr, France — Fortified Alsatian village surrounded by vineyards, displaying Renaissance mansions and narrow lanes that exemplify medieval wine-trading heritage.
  10. Rovinj, Croatia — Adriatic coastal town with Venetian-influenced architecture, terracotta roofs cascading to the harbor, and centuries-old Mediterranean character.
  11. Charles Bridge — One of Ryan's favorite Prague attractions; construction began in 1357
  12. Prague Castle — Considered the largest ancient castle in the world, built in the ninth century
  13. Rothenburg - Medieval Old Town — Medieval old town that feels like a fantasy movie; one of the most preserved in Europe

Useful for your trip

Tip
Dubrovnik's city walls are almost 2 kilometers in length and 4-6 meters thick; plan time to walk them for medieval experience.
Tip
Charles Bridge in Prague was constructed from 1357 to early 15th century; it features over 30 statues along its length.
Transport
Český Krumlov is about 2 hours drive from Prague; it escaped WWII bombing so medieval structures are exceptionally well-preserved.
Tip
San Gimignano had 72 towers during its prime (70+ meters tall); currently 14 watchtowers still stand in this medieval hill town.
Tip
Český Krumlov castle is surrounded by a moat filled with bears instead of water; visit the castle tower for town views.
Tip
Meteora monasteries in Greece were built in 14th century on inaccessible rock pillars; monks used climbing ladders as sole access.
Tip
Conwy Castle in Wales was built by Edward I at end of 13th century; city walls and castle cost 15,000 pounds (enormous sum then).
Timing
Edinburgh Castle endured 26 sieges over 1100 years, most besieged place in Great Britain; plan to visit Scotland's most visited attraction.
Tip
Rothenburg is one of Europe's most preserved medieval towns; inspired Disney's Pinocchio settings and hosts Christmas markets.
Transport
Riquewihr village is 20 minutes outside Colmar, France; believed to be the village that inspired Beauty and the Beast.
Tip
Óbidos, Portugal is 1 hour drive from Lisbon; stone walls date to ~713 when Moors built fortification, reclaimed 1148.
Tip
Alcázar of Segovia resembles a ship's bow; built 12th century as fortress, later royal palace, prison, and military academy.

Video on this route

Top 25 Medieval Places To Visit In Europe

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