Picture waking up to the sound of birds singing through stone passageways that have been there for hundreds of years. You could sip coffee while looking over rolling green hills from a tower room and feel like a king or queen for the night. This isn’t a storybook; Europe’s old castles are more than just places to view. Some have been turned into fancy hotels where guests can sleep surrounded by centuries of history, style, and romance.
Here are seven beautiful castles in Europe that you can book right now, from Scotland’s medieval fortress hotels to France’s châteaux retreats, whether you’re planning a luxury European holiday, a romantic retreat, or just want to check “stay in a castle” off your travel bucket list.
1. Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland
Ashford Castle is Ireland’s most famous luxury hotel, and it has been around since 1228. It used to be the residence of the Guinness family. Now it is part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection and has won the title of “Best Hotel in the World” from well-known travel awards.
Expect big lawns, sparkling lakes, and rooms full with chandeliers, wood paneling, and velvet furniture. You may do falconry, ride horses, fish, and even see a movie in a private theater, all without leaving the property.
- About 45 minutes from Galway, it is on the banks of Lough Corrib.
- For authentic stone walls and four-poster beds, book a stateroom in the oldest part of the castle. The lowest price is about $600 per night. In the summer, book 3 to 6 months ahead of time.
2. Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire, England
Thornbury Castle, which was once held by King Henry VIII and home to Anne Boleyn, gives guests a real royal Tudor experience. One of the most beautiful castles in England with ancient towers, arrow-slit windows, and well-kept gardens.
In the grand hall, you’ll find period-appropriate furniture, roaring fireplaces, and fancy dinners. You have to have afternoon tea in the enclosed gardens.
- A beautiful drive from Bath and the Cotswolds.
- The Catherine of Aragon Tower Suite has a spiral staircase entry and walls that are 10 feet thick. Prices start at $450 per night.
3. Château de Bagnols in Beaujolais, France
This golden-stone château, back from the 13th century, is one of the most romantic castle hotels in France. It has the charm of a medieval castle with the elegance of a modern hotel. Picture moats, drawbridges, and Michelin-star restaurants.
- In the middle of Beaujolais wine country, only 30 minutes from Lyon.
- For frescoed ceilings and original fireplaces, book a suite in the medieval area. Prices start at $400 per night. Great for people who love wine.
4. Burg Colmberg, in Bavaria, Germany
Burg Colmberg is nearly 1,000 years old and helps you live out your medieval fantasies without breaking the bank. It sits on a hilltop and has wide views of the Franconian landscape and the cute village below.
- Near the Romantic Road and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which is great for road vacations.
- The rooms combine rustic wood beams with modern comfort. With prices starting at $160 a night for a double room, it’s one of the finest deals on castle stays in Europe.
5. Parador de Cardona in Spain’s Catalonia
This castle hotel is a 9th-century stronghold that sits high on a hill and has views of the Catalan countryside. It’s one of Spain’s famous Paradores, which are state-run hotels that protect historic buildings.
- It’s only 90 minutes from Barcelona, so it’s a great place to go on the weekend.
- For the greatest views, stay in a tower room. Prices start at $150 per night. Try some of the restaurant’s Catalan dishes.
6. Castello di Reschio, Italy
This rebuilt castle from the 10th century is the epitome of rustic Italian style. Castello di Reschio is on a large private estate and has both medieval stone walls and very modern features like infinity pools and private cooks.
- It is on the boundary of Tuscany and Umbria, in an area with olive orchards and vineyards.
- Suites start at $1,200 per night and have unique furniture, high ceilings, and marble baths. Perfect for newlyweds.
7. Inverlochy Castle in the Scottish Highlands
Queen Victoria famously called Inverlochy “the loveliest spot I have ever seen.” This castle from the 1800s now has Michelin-star dining, beautiful views of the Highlands, and a private luxury experience.
- Close to Fort William, which is the way to get to Ben Nevis and the West Highlands.
- Prices start at $650 per night. Pick a suite that looks out over a loch or a mountain.
How to Secure Your Stay in a Historic European Castle:
- Book ahead of time. Popular castles fill up months in advance, especially for weddings or summer vacations.
- Think about going off-season. Prices are lower and crowds are smaller in late fall and early spring.
- Some castles have package deals that include dinners, activities, or wine tours.
- Transportation: Many of them are in rural areas, so you might need to rent a car.
Staying in a castle is more than simply a place to sleep; it’s a chance to experience hundreds of years of art, history, and romance. You can stay at a cheap Bavarian castle or a Michelin-starred Irish house and leave with memories and images that will last a lifetime.
FAQs
Q: Do castle hotels cost a lot?
Ans: They might cost as little as $150 a night or as much as $1,200 a night.
Q: Is it possible to stay in authentic castles from the past?
Ans: Yes, all of the castles listed above are real historic ones that have been updated for modern tourists.
Q: Are kids welcome?
Ans: Most of them are good for families, although some of the more expensive ones are better for adults.