I am not going to lie – this post took me a lonnnng time to put together! I wanted it to be perfect. So I researched deep, and looked into almost every photo on the websites, to ensure that these were actually the top 15 Fairytale Castle Hotels in Europe.

Ever since moving to Germany, I’ve become slightly obsessed with castles. Growing up in Australia, we called a few old buildings “castles,” but they are NOTHING compared to Europe. Here, castles sit on mountains, overlook vineyards, hide in forests and even perch dramatically on cliffs above the sea (seriously)…

I wrote a post about Castles in Germany that you can acutally stay in, and it has been one of my top performing posts. So I thought I’d expand it and dig a bit deeper in to Castles you can stay in anywhere in Europe.

Imagine waking up inside centuries of history. Have breakfast overlooking valleys, vineyards and medieval towns.

When I say this post took me a long time to write, I mean hours researching what I genuinely think are the most beautiful castle hotels in Europe. Not just the most famous, but the ones that made me stop scrolling and think, “One day I have to go there…”

If you’re creating your own Europe bucket list, these are the ones I’d start with (and most of them I didn’t even know existed!!)

I’m sure you’ll love this post x

***This post might contain affiliate links, but it won’t cost you anything extra. I only recommend products that I know and love.***

👑 The Royal Bucket List

👑 1. Ashford Castle

County Mayo, Ireland

⭐ 5-Star Luxury Hotel

What it’s known for

Ashford Castle is arguably the most famous castle hotel in Europe. Dating back to the 1200s, it was once owned by the Guinness family and is consistently ranked among the world’s best hotels. If you’ve ever dreamed of feeling like royalty, this is probably the closest you’ll get.

Perfect for

• Honeymoon
• Bucket list trip
• Luxury lovers
• Anniversary getaway

Rooms & Suites

There are 83 individually designed rooms and suites, each decorated with antique furniture, crystal chandeliers, marble bathrooms and luxurious fabrics. Many rooms overlook Lough Corrib or the castle gardens. Some suites even feature four-poster beds and original fireplaces.

Rooms include:

Luxury king beds
Marble bathrooms
Bathrobes & slippers
Nespresso machine
WiFi
Turn-down service
Beautiful castle or lake views

Food & Dining

This is one of the biggest highlights.

There are several restaurants including the award-winning George V Dining Room, elegant afternoon tea in the Connaught Room, cosy pubs, cocktail bars and private dining experiences.

Afternoon Tea here is famous throughout Ireland.

Activities

Beautiful gardens

Falconry School (the oldest in Ireland!)

Horse riding

Boat cruises on Lough Corrib

Golf course

Clay shooting

Fishing

Spa treatments

Fine dining

Afternoon Tea

Cycling

Archery

CLICK HERE for more Information

🏰 2. Airelles Château de Versailles – Le Grand Contrôle

Versailles, France

⭐ 5-Star Palace Hotel

What it’s known for

This isn’t just near Versailles—it sits on the Palace of Versailles estate itself. Guests enjoy exclusive after-hours access to parts of the palace, making it one of the most exclusive hotel experiences in the world.

Perfect for

• Luxury travellers
• History lovers
• Romantic getaway
• Once-in-a-lifetime experience

Rooms

Only 14 rooms and suites, each inspired by 18th-century French royalty.

Every room is unique.

Included:

Butler service
Luxury linens
Antique furnishings
Marble bathrooms
Views over Versailles
Mini bar
Breakfast

Dining

Michelin-star dining by renowned chef Alain Ducasse.

Meals are inspired by those once served to King Louis XIV.

Activities

Private palace tours
After-hours access to Versailles
Spa
Afternoon Tea
Beautiful gardens
Marie Antoinette Estate
Cycling around Versailles

CLICK HERE for more information

🏰 3. Château de Bagnols

Beaujolais, France

⭐ 5-Star Hotel

What it’s known for

One of the most authentic medieval castle hotels in France. Think towers, a moat, drawbridge and beautifully preserved frescoes. It feels exactly like stepping into a fairy tale.

Rooms

Around 27 rooms and suites, all individually decorated.

Some include:

Four-poster beds
Stone fireplaces
Fresco ceilings
Marble bathrooms
Vineyard views

Dining

The castle restaurant serves refined French cuisine using local ingredients.

You can also enjoy wine tasting throughout the Beaujolais region.

Activities

Village walks

Spa

Outdoor pool

Wine tasting

Gardens

Hot air balloon rides nearby

Cycling

CLICK HERE for more Information

🍷 Wine & Fairytale Castles

🏰 4. Castle Hotel Auf Schönburg

Oberwesel, Germany

⭐ 4-Star Superior

What it’s known for

One of Germany’s most romantic castle hotels, perched high above the Rhine River in the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge. The views over the vineyards and river are simply breathtaking.

Rooms

Around 30 rooms and suites.

Every room is individually decorated with antique furniture while still offering modern comforts.

Included:

Queen or king beds
Terrace or balcony (many rooms)
Castle views
River views
WiFi
Breakfast
Minibar in selected rooms

Dining

One elegant restaurant and a lovely terrace overlooking the Rhine.

Breakfast here is one of the highlights of staying at the castle.

Activities

Rhine River cruises
Wine tasting
Castle gardens
Hiking trails
Medieval museum
Walking through Oberwesel

CLICK HERE for more information

🏰 5. Schloss Lieser

Moselle Valley, Germany

⭐ 5-Star Hotel (Marriott Autograph Collection)

What it’s known for

A stunning Neo-Renaissance castle located in Germany’s famous Moselle wine region. It combines historic architecture with modern luxury.

Rooms

Around 50 elegant rooms and suites

Included:

King beds
Luxury bathrooms
Espresso machine
Air conditioning
River or vineyard views
Premium toiletries

Dining

Fine dining restaurant plus an elegant wine cellar showcasing local Rieslings.

Activities

Wine tasting
Moselle River cruises
Cycling
Spa
Indoor pool
Visiting nearby vineyards

CLICK HERE for more information

🍷 6. Castello Banfi

Tuscany, Italy

⭐ 5-Star Luxury Resort

What it’s known for

This incredible medieval castle sits in the heart of one of Italy’s most prestigious wineries. It’s paradise for wine lovers.

Rooms

Just 14 luxurious suites, making it feel incredibly exclusive.

Included:

King beds
Handmade furniture
Marble bathrooms
Vineyard views
Breakfast

Dining

Two exceptional restaurants, including Michelin-starred La Sala dei Grappoli.

Activities

Winery tours
Wine tastings
Cooking classes
Truffle hunting
Cycling
Spa treatments

CLICK HERE for more information

🌿 7. Castello di Casole

Tuscany, Italy

⭐ 5-Star Luxury Resort

What it’s known for

One of the most luxurious countryside retreats in Italy, surrounded by thousands of acres of rolling Tuscan hills. It blends castle history with modern luxury and “quiet luxury” aesthetics.

Rooms

Around 39 suites and villas, all beautifully restored with exposed stone walls, timber beams, fireplaces, and elegant Italian furnishings.

Included:

King-size beds
Spacious marble bathrooms
Luxury toiletries
Espresso machine
Daily breakfast
Stunning countryside views

Dining

Farm-to-table Tuscan cuisine, wine tastings, and romantic dinners overlooking the hills.

Activities

Hiking and cycling

Infinity pool

Spa

Horse riding

Cooking classes

Wine tasting

Truffle hunting

Olive oil tastings

CLICK HERE for more information

🏔 Mountain Escapes

🏔 8. Schloss Elmau

Bavarian Alps, Germany

⭐ 5-Star Superior Luxury Spa Resort

What it’s known for

Schloss Elmau is one of Europe’s most exclusive wellness retreats and famously hosted the G7 Summit. It combines mountain scenery with exceptional luxury, six spas, and world-class cultural events.

Rooms

Over 150 luxurious rooms and suites, spread across two interconnected buildings.

Included:

King beds
Balconies in many rooms
Mountain views
Designer furnishings
Luxury bathrooms
Minibar
WiFi

Dining

Six restaurants ranging from casual alpine dining to Michelin-starred cuisine.

Activities

Cycling

Six luxury spas

Heated outdoor pools

Yoga

Hiking

Skiing

Concerts

Libraries

Fitness centre

Tennis

CLICK HERE for more information

🇨🇭 9. Château Gütsch

Lucerne, Switzerland

⭐ 4-Star Superior Luxury Hotel

What it’s known for

If there was ever a castle that looked like it belonged in a Disney movie, this would be it. Sitting high above the beautiful city of Lucerne, Château Gütsch offers some of the most breathtaking views in Switzerland.

Unlike some medieval castles, Château Gütsch feels elegant, romantic and refined, with incredible views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps.

Perfect for

• Romantic getaway
• Switzerland bucket list
• Luxury city escape
• Honeymoon

Rooms & Suites

There are around 37 individually designed rooms and suites, each blending historic charm with modern luxury.

Rooms include:

King or Queen beds
Marble bathrooms
Luxury toiletries
Coffee machine
Air conditioning
Complimentary WiFi
Lake or mountain views

Some suites feature balconies overlooking Lucerne, making them perfect for watching the sunset.

Food & Dining

The castle’s elegant restaurant serves modern European cuisine using local Swiss ingredients.

During warmer months, dining on the terrace with panoramic lake views is one of the highlights of staying here.

Activities

Explore Lucerne Old Town
Ride the famous cogwheel railway up Mount Pilatus
Lake Lucerne cruises
Visit the Chapel Bridge
Mountain excursions
Hiking
Scenic cable cars

CLICK HERE for more information

🏴 10. Inverlochy Castle

Scottish Highlands, Scotland

⭐ 5-Star Luxury Castle Hotel

What it’s known for

If you’ve always imagined escaping to the Scottish Highlands and staying in a grand stone castle surrounded by mountains, this is exactly that experience.

Built in the 1800s, Inverlochy Castle sits at the foot of Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain. Queen Victoria once visited and famously wrote that she “never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot.”

Perfect for

• Scottish Highlands road trip
• Luxury nature escape
• Couples
• Outdoor lovers

Rooms & Suites

There are 17 luxurious bedrooms and suites, each filled with antique furniture and classic Scottish elegance.

Rooms include:

King-size beds
Marble bathrooms
Luxury robes
Complimentary WiFi
Beautiful garden or mountain views
Sitting areas in many suites

No two rooms are exactly alike, which adds to the charm.

Food & Dining

The award-winning restaurant is one of Scotland’s finest, serving seasonal Scottish cuisine alongside an impressive wine list.

Dinner here is an experience in itself.

Activities

Loch cruises

Hiking Ben Nevis

Fishing

Clay shooting

Falconry

Whisky distillery tours

Scenic train rides (Harry Potter Jacobite Steam Train nearby)

Mountain biking

CLICK HERE for more information

Hidden Gems

🇪🇸 11. Parador de Cardona

Catalonia, Spain

⭐ 4-Star Historic Castle Hotel

What it’s known for

If you want the closest thing to staying inside a real medieval fortress, this is it.

Built in the 9th century, Parador de Cardona is one of Spain’s most impressive castles, with enormous stone walls, ancient towers and incredible views across the Catalonian countryside.

Walking through its halls genuinely feels like stepping back in time.

Perfect for

• Medieval history lovers
• Spain road trips
• Families
• Bucket list experience

Rooms

The hotel offers around 54 rooms, decorated in traditional medieval style while still providing modern comforts.

Rooms include:

Stone walls
Wooden beams
Comfortable king or twin beds
Air conditioning
WiFi
Ensuite bathrooms

Several rooms overlook the surrounding valley.

Food & Dining

The restaurant specialises in traditional Catalan cuisine, with vaulted stone ceilings adding to the castle atmosphere.

Activities

Explore Cardona Castle
Visit the famous Salt Mountain
Medieval village walks
Hiking
Wine tasting nearby
Guided castle tours

CLICK HERE for more information

❤️ 12. Castillo del Buen Amor

Salamanca, Spain

⭐ 4-Star Boutique Castle Hotel

What it’s known for

The name translates to “Castle of Good Love,” which already makes it feel incredibly romantic.

Dating back to the 11th century, this beautifully restored castle combines medieval architecture with colourful Renaissance interiors.

It’s full of charm without feeling overly formal.

Perfect for

• Couples
• Weekend getaway
• Wine lovers
• Quiet luxury

Rooms

There are approximately 40 beautifully restored rooms, each completely unique.

Rooms include:

Four-poster or king beds
Antique furniture
Air conditioning
Complimentary WiFi
Historic architectural details
Luxury bathrooms

Food & Dining

The castle restaurant focuses on regional Spanish cuisine and local wines.

There’s also a beautiful outdoor courtyard where guests can relax with a glass of wine.

Activities

Gardens

Outdoor swimming pool

Wine tasting

Salamanca day trips

Historic villages

Walking trails

CLICK HERE for more information

🇮🇪 13. Dromoland Castle

County Clare, Ireland

⭐ 5-Star Luxury Castle Hotel

What it’s known for

Often considered one of Ireland’s finest luxury hotels, Dromoland Castle has welcomed presidents, royalty and celebrities for decades.

Despite its grandeur, it still feels warm and welcoming.

The estate itself is over 500 acres, giving guests plenty to explore.

Perfect for

• Honeymoon
• Luxury couples getaway
• Golf lovers
• Relaxing escape

Rooms & Suites

There are around 98 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, blending traditional Irish elegance with modern comforts.

Rooms include:

King beds
Marble bathrooms
Luxury bath products
Coffee facilities
Beautiful garden or lake views
Complimentary WiFi

Food & Dining

Guests can enjoy fine dining, elegant afternoon tea, cocktails in the castle bar or more casual dining overlooking the estate.

Activities

Falconry
Golf course
Horse riding
Fishing
Spa
Archery
Clay shooting
Afternoon tea
Walking trails

CLICK HERE for more information

🇫🇷 14. Château de la Treyne

Dordogne Valley, France

⭐ 4-Star Luxury Hotel

What it’s known for

Perched dramatically above the Dordogne River, Château de la Treyne is one of France’s most romantic castle hotels.

It feels intimate rather than grand, making it perfect for couples looking for a slower pace.

The surrounding Dordogne region is filled with medieval villages, vineyards and beautiful countryside.

Perfect for

• Romantic escape
• Food lovers
• France road trip
• Anniversary

Rooms

There are 18 individually decorated rooms and suites, each featuring antique furniture and elegant French styling.

Rooms include:

King beds
Luxury bathrooms
Air conditioning
River or garden views
Complimentary WiFi
Historic details

Food & Dining

The Michelin-starred restaurant is one of the highlights of staying here.

Guests can enjoy fine French cuisine while overlooking the Dordogne River.

Activities

Canoeing
River cruises
Hot air balloon rides
Visit medieval villages
Wine tasting
Gardens
Hiking

CLICK HERE for more information

🇩🇪 15. Burg Colmberg

Bavaria, Germany

⭐ 4-Star Castle Hotel

What it’s known for

Burg Colmberg is one of the most authentic medieval castle stays in Germany.

Originally built over 1,000 years ago, it sits high above the Franconian countryside and still retains much of its original character.

Unlike some luxury castle hotels that feel more like grand country estates, Burg Colmberg genuinely feels like you’re sleeping inside a medieval fortress.

Perfect for

• History lovers
• Romantic weekend
• Bavaria road trip
• Affordable castle experience

Rooms

The castle has around 24 individually decorated rooms, combining historic architecture with modern comforts.

Rooms include:

King or Queen beds
Traditional wooden furniture
Ensuite bathrooms
Complimentary WiFi
Castle courtyard or countryside views

Some rooms feature exposed stone walls and timber beams, adding to the medieval atmosphere.

Food & Dining

The castle restaurant serves traditional Franconian cuisine, with hearty local dishes and regional wines.

During the warmer months, guests can dine on the terrace overlooking the rolling countryside.

Activities

Explore the castle grounds
Walk the medieval walls
Hiking
Cycling
Visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber (about 30 minutes away)
Franconian wine tasting
Christmas markets (seasonal)

CLICK HERE for more information

✨ Bonus Section

Castles That Should Be On Every Europe Bucket List (Even Though You Can’t Stay Inside)

🏰 Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

The castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle

Why visit?

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most famous castles in the world, welcoming over a million visitors each year. Perched high above the Bavarian Alps, it looks like it has been lifted straight from a storybook. Walt Disney famously used it as inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle, making it one of Europe’s most iconic landmarks.

Where to stay

1. AMERON Neuschwanstein Alpsee Resort & Spa ⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is my first choice because it’s only a short walk from the castle entrance and overlooks the beautiful Alpsee Lake. The hotel combines modern luxury with incredible mountain scenery and even has a spa for relaxing after a day of exploring.

Perfect for:

Couples
Luxury travellers
Spa lovers

2. Hotel Müller Hohenschwangau ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Probably the most popular hotel for castle visitors. It’s located right below Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castle, making it incredibly convenient. Many rooms have castle views, and breakfast is included.

☁️ Hohenzollern Castle, Germany

Germany’s castle above the clouds

Why visit?

Hohenzollern Castle dramatically rises above the Swabian Alps and is often surrounded by clouds, making it look as though it’s floating in the sky. It’s one of Germany’s most breathtaking castles and still belongs to the Hohenzollern royal family.

Where to stay

1. Hotel-Restaurant Kaiserhof ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Hechingen)

Only about ten minutes from the castle, this elegant boutique hotel offers spacious rooms, excellent breakfasts and easy access to the castle.

Perfect for:

Families
Couples
Weekend trips

2. Schloss Weitenburg ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’re already on a castle adventure, why not stay in another castle? Schloss Weitenburg is around 30 minutes away and offers historic rooms, beautiful countryside views and a peaceful atmosphere.

🏴 Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland

One of the most photographed castles in the world

Why visit?

Few castles are as instantly recognisable as Eilean Donan. Sitting where three sea lochs meet, it’s one of Scotland’s most photographed landmarks and has appeared in countless movies, including Highlander and James Bond.

Where to stay

1. Duisdale House Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A charming boutique hotel on the Isle of Skye offering cosy rooms, excellent Scottish cuisine and stunning sea views. Around 20 minutes from the castle.

Perfect for:

Couples
Scenic road trips
Relaxing Highlands escape

2. The Torridon ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’re looking for luxury, this is one of Scotland’s finest hotels. Surrounded by mountains and lochs, it’s perfect for travellers wanting an unforgettable Highlands experience.

👑 Alcázar of Segovia, Spain

Another inspiration for Disney’s castles

Why visit?

Perched dramatically on a rocky cliff, Alcázar of Segovia is believed to have inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. Its distinctive towers, slate roofs and fairytale silhouette make it one of Spain’s most spectacular castles.

Where to stay

1. Áurea Convento Capuchinos ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A luxury boutique hotel housed inside a beautifully restored convent in Segovia’s Old Town. Elegant rooms, spa facilities and only a short walk to the castle.

Perfect for:

Couples
History lovers
Luxury city breaks

2. Parador de Segovia ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Located on the opposite side of the city, this hotel offers one of the best panoramic views of Segovia—including the Alcázar itself. The outdoor pool overlooking the city is a huge bonus during summer.

🕳️ Predjama Castle, Slovenia

The castle built into a cave

Why visit?

Predjama Castle is unlike any other castle in Europe. Built directly into the mouth of a towering cave over 800 years ago, it almost seems impossible. Combined with nearby Postojna Cave, it’s one of Slovenia’s most unforgettable attractions.

Where to stay

1. Hotel Jama ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Located beside the famous Postojna Cave, Hotel Jama is modern, stylish and only a short drive from Predjama Castle. Many visitors combine both attractions during their stay.

Perfect for:

Families
Couples
Adventure travellers

2. Hotel Kras ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Situated in the centre of Postojna, this contemporary hotel offers spacious rooms, excellent breakfasts and easy access to both the caves and Predjama Castle.

✨ My personal tip

If you’re planning a Europe castle road trip, I’d group these together rather than trying to visit them all in one holiday:

Germany & Austria: Neuschwanstein + Hohenzollern + Burg Colmberg + Schloss Elmau + Castle Hotel Auf Schönburg.
France: Château de Bagnols + Château de la Treyne + Versailles.
British Isles: Ashford Castle + Dromoland Castle + Inverlochy Castle + Eilean Donan Castle.
Southern Europe: Castello Banfi + Castello di Casole + Alcázar of Segovia + Predjama Castle.

My Top 5 Castle Recommendations (If Money Wasn’t a Factor)

Best Castle Hotels for…

✨ Honeymoon

🍷 Wine Lovers

🏰 Most Authentic Medieval Experience

🧖 Spa & Wellness

💰 Most Affordable

I hope you enjoyed this roundup! It was one of my favourites to write. Seeing a Castle for the first time in your life is truly magical. However, being able to sleep in one and feel like a modern day princess is a bucketlist experience!

Let me know if you have been to any of these, I’d love to hear your experience in the comments x