Top 10 Castles in Europe You Can Stay In for a Fairytale Vacation

Have you ever dreamed of living in a fairytale, waking up in a centuries-old castle surrounded by luxury? Across the world, many castles have been transformed into stunning hotels that offer a fairytale-like experience. Complete with grand halls, lavish suites, and fine dining, these ten castle hotels allow guests to experience the life of royalty. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a cultural adventure, or a unique stay, these castle hotels offer an accommodation experience like no other! 

Also read: 10 Beautiful Castles in Asia for a Fairytale Vacation

1. Ashford Castle – Ireland

Ashford Castle is a 13th-century fortress meticulously restored into a five-star hotel. Each of its 83 rooms is uniquely decorated with antique furnishings, rich fabrics, and stunning views of the estate.

Guests can enjoy various outdoor activities such as falconry, horse riding, and fishing. Apart from these spirited activities, guests can also opt for more relaxing ways to pass the time. Ashford Castles boasts an award-winning spa for guests to pamper themselves. Elegant drawing rooms for afternoon tea or fine dining in the regal George V Dining Room are also options for guests to fully immerse in the royal experience. 

2. Château de Bagnols – France

Château de Bagnols is a stunning 13th-century castle that oozes charm and sophistication. It is located in the heart of France’s famed Beaujolais wine region,  It’s a picture-perfect escape with its historic stone walls, Renaissance-era decoration and manicured gardens. 

Guests can look forward to staying in rooms with original fireplaces and frescoes (Renaissance-style paintings found on walls and ceilings). Other amenities include a Michelin-starred restaurant where guests can indulge in fine dining. Nearby vineyards also offer world-class wine for wine lovers, a staple for those visiting this region. The castle also offers a tranquil spa, perfect for unwinding after a day of wine tasting and sightseeing. 

Do note that the hotel is closed seasonally, typically between January to April. Check out their website for more details. 

3. Inverlochy Castle – Scotland

Inverlochy Castle is a 19th-century retreat known for its elegance and tranquillity. Prominent royals such as Queen Victoria had once graced the premises of Inverlochy Castle. She spent a week at Inverlochy Castle in 1873, describing in her diary that she ” never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot”. 

Each room is individually designed with period furnishings and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can choose to enjoy the surrounding sceneries by woodland walks or boat rides with the use of small rowing boats provided by the castle. The hotel also arranges a selection of outdoor activities, subject to prior bookings. Some examples include white water rafting, horse riding, mountain biking, archery, and clay pigeon shooting. 

4. Parador de Oropesa – Spain

Parador de Oropesa is a historic 14th-century fortress-turned-hotel perched on a hill in Toledo, Spain. With its stone towers, medieval decor, and panoramic views, this castle hotel offers an immersive historical experience. Guests are transported back in time as they step into the expansive courtyard. The grand salon is adorned with magnificent coffered ceilings, evoking the elegance of medieval nobility. 

Like aristocrats of the past, guests can unwind on the terrace or enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool while taking in the breathtaking views of the Campo Arañuelo landscape. The charming town of Oropesa is located nearby, where guests can head down to explore in the daytime. As the day ends, the Parador de Oropesa terrace provides stunning sunset views over the Spanish countryside.

5. Castello di Vicarello – Italy

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Tuscany, Castello di Vicarello is a 12th-century fortress that offers an intimate and luxurious experience. Dedicated to organic and sustainable practices, this eco-conscious haven embraces its natural surroundings while preserving the land’s rich heritage. Originally built over 900 years ago by the Republic of Siena, the estate and castle offer an atmosphere of timeless elegance, embodying the essence of Tuscany’s storied past while promoting sustainable luxury in one of Italy’s most renowned regions.

The castle boasts organic gardens, olive groves, and vineyards, which provide fresh ingredients for its farm-to-table restaurant. Guests can also relax in the spa, take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the countryside, or explore nearby medieval villages and wineries.

6. Dromoland Castle – Ireland

Dating back to the 16th century, Dromoland Castle in County Clare is a majestic estate that has hosted nobility for centuries. As the ancestral home of Ireland’s most powerful High King, Dromoland Castle is the site of great history and unforgettable events. Surrounded by unspoiled parklands and woodlands, the castle blends old-world charm with modern luxury for a memorable stay.

Guests can enjoy activities such as championship golf, archery, and clay pigeon shooting. The hotel’s opulent spa, fine dining restaurant, and traditional afternoon tea provide the ultimate in relaxation and indulgence. The castle grounds also feature beautifully manicured gardens and a tranquil lake for boating.

7. Schloss Lieser – Germany

Schloss Lieser offers a luxurious riverside escape in a beautiful 19th-century castle environment. Built in 1884, Schloss Lieser is special because of its spectacular views of the Moselle River as well as the surrounding vineyards well known in the region. 

Elegant rooms with antique decor provide a unique stay for every guest. Guests can enjoy activities such as afternoon tea in the castle or a picnic in the castle park. Luxurious experiences like spa treatments and wine tastings on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays are some other options available for guests. 

Also read: 10 Dazzling German Castles That Are Straight Out of a Storybook

8. Thornbury Castle – England

Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire is a site of rich Tudor history. King Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn once stayed here, and now guests can experience a regal retreat in its historic halls. The castle’s rooms feature four-poster beds, stone fireplaces, and opulent tapestries. 

Guests can explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and indulge in exquisite afternoon tea in the grand lounge. The castle grounds also provide more adventurous activities like archery, axe throwing and falconry. For those interested in Tudor history, a historical tour of the castle grounds or a dress-up experience in Tudor costume are some interesting activities to try. 

9. Manoir de Lebioles, Belgium

Nestled in the Ardennes forest, Manoir de Lébioles in Belgium offers guests a luxurious escape in a grand, castle-like estate often referred to as the “Little Versailles of the Ardennes.” This elegant retreat boasts opulent rooms and suites featuring fireplaces, high ceilings, and spa-like bathrooms, blending historic charm with modern comfort. 

Guests can indulge in fine dining at the on-site gourmet restaurant or unwind in the wellness spa with saunas and steam baths. Additionally, guests can also explore the surrounding woodlands through scenic hikes and cycling routes. For a truly regal experience, visitors can also enjoy horseback riding and hot air ballooning to soak in the serene beauty of the Belgian countryside.

10. Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg, Germany

Guests can enjoy world-class dining at the hotel’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant, Vendôme, or relax at the elegant spa with saunas, a pool, and soothing treatments. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the scenic Bergisches Land region through hiking and cycling. History lovers can tour the castle’s grand halls and courtyards. With experiences that cater to diverse audiences, a stay at Schloss Bensberg is nothing short of royal. 

Also read: Sweden’s Icehotel: What It’s Like to Sleep in A Room Made of Ice

Staying in a castle hotel isn’t just about luxury—it’s about stepping back in time and immersing yourself in history. Whether you choose a medieval fortress in Spain, a romantic chateau in France, or a highland retreat in Scotland, these castle hotels offer both elegance and adventure. If you’re ready to live out your fairytale fantasy, book your stay at one of these stunning castles!