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Home - Travel Tips - 27 Best Castle Hotels in the World: Historic Stays, Luxury Escapes and Fairytale Views
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The most beautiful castle hotels in the world aren’t just stunning places to stay—they’re journeys through history, where grand architecture and storied pasts create unforgettable experiences. From medieval fortresses to royal hunting lodges, these remarkable properties allow guests to walk in the footsteps of kings, queens, and noble families. Each castle or lodge combines historic charm with modern luxury, letting travelers immerse themselves in centuries-old ambiance while enjoying today’s comforts.
Life is short. For once, put yourself first and indulge in a stay at a fairytale castle hotel. It’s an ideal choice for celebrating special occasions like weddings, engagements, milestone birthdays, or anniversaries.
We’ve gathered an amazing array of castle hotels, from luxurious to pet-friendly and family-friendly options. Let’s explore!
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl, overlooking Austria’s Fuschlsee, is a luxury retreat steeped in history. Built in the 15th century as a hunting lodge for Salzburg’s Prince-Archbishops, its lakeside location made it a cherished hideaway for nobility.
By the 19th century, it had evolved into an elegant hotel, welcoming guests seeking the peaceful beauty of the Austrian countryside. Following various restorations, the Rosewood group acquired the estate in 2021, blending modern luxury with historical charm.
Today, Rosewood Schloss Fuschl is a premier destination, offering a unique mix of Austrian hospitality and cultural heritage amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Schloss Leopoldskron in Salzburg is one of Austria’s most distinguished castle hotels, a Rococo palace with a history as captivating as its lakeside setting. Commissioned in 1736 by Prince‑Archbishop Leopold Anton von Firmian, the palace became a cultural hub in the 18th century, later flourishing under the ownership of the theatrical impresario Max Reinhardt. Reinhardt transformed Leopoldskron into a creative retreat, hosting writers, actors, and artists, and it was here that he developed the early vision for the Salzburg Festival.
After Reinhardt’s forced exile during World War II, the palace fell into decline until it was eventually restored and preserved as a national historic monument. In 2014, it opened as Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron, allowing guests to experience its grand halls, ornate stucco work, and lakeside gardens firsthand. Although the palace remains privately owned and not open to the general public, staying here grants exclusive access to its historic rooms — including the famous Venetian Room, said to have inspired sets for The Sound of Music. The Sound of Christmas starring Julie Andrews, John Denver, and Plácido Domingo was filmed here in 1987. Today, Schloss Leopoldskron stands as a serene blend of culture, history, and refined Austrian elegance, making it one of the most atmospheric castle hotels in Salzburg.
⭐ Did You Know?
King Charles III, Bill Gates, Kofi Annan, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg are just a few names from the long list of notable guests enjoying the hotel’s hospitality.
Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden was built as a Renaissance castle from about 1590 onwards and was devastated by a blaze in 1762. Subsequently, it was rebuilt in a Neo-Renaissance style and opened as a hotel in 1890. Thereafter, it changed many hands, and today it is a popular year-round castle hotel on the western shore of Lake Wörth (Wörthersee).
Fairmont Banff Springs opened in 1888 and is designated as a National Historic Site of Canada. A fire (1926) destroyed the original structure, and two years later, the replacement structure was completed. The Monarch of Canada, King George VI, and Queen Elizabeth visited the hotel during their 1939 royal tour of Canada.
Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is one of the world’s most iconic castle hotels, rising dramatically above Old Québec since its construction in 1893. Commissioned by the Canadian Pacific Railway as part of its grand network of luxury hotels, the château was designed in the historicist style, blending neo‑Gothic and neo‑Renaissance elements inspired by the great Loire Valley châteaux of France. Its commanding position atop Cap Diamant was chosen to symbolize prestige, welcome international travelers, and celebrate Québec’s French heritage.
Over the decades, the hotel has hosted royalty, world leaders, and cultural icons, and it played a notable role during World War II when Winston Churchill and Franklin D. Roosevelt met here for the Québec Conferences. Designated a National Historic Site, Château Frontenac has been carefully restored and expanded while preserving its European‑inspired elegance — from copper roofs and turrets to grand public rooms and refined suites. Today, it remains one of the most photographed castle hotels on the planet, a timeless landmark that defines the Québec City skyline.
🕮 Suggested Read: Experience the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of Quebec in Canada – start planning your unforgettable journey today!
Centrally located by the River Vuoksi in Imatra (South Karelia), Imatran Valtionhotelli is an Art Nouveau castle. Since its construction in 1903, quite a bit of history lies between its walls – “If walls could talk!” It was a military hospital during the Finnish Civil War. During World War II, it was the headquarters of the Isthmus Army and, in the Continuation War, as the military administration department at headquarters. In addition to all that, the hotel’s basement also housed the Imatra Air Defense Center during World War II.
Guests at Scandic Imatran Valtionhotelli can choose between rooms in the castle and modern rooms in the park building, which is connected to the castle via an underground passage.
Hapimag Château de Chabenet is one of the most charming castle hotels in France, with origins dating back to the late Middle Ages. Completed in 1471, the château was built as a fortified residence for local nobility in the Center‑Val de Loire region — an area known for its strategic importance and flourishing castle culture during the 15th century. Over the centuries, Chabenet evolved from a defensive stronghold into a refined manor, passing through the hands of several aristocratic families who expanded and embellished the estate.
After periods of decline, the château was carefully restored and transformed into a welcoming retreat, preserving its medieval character while adding modern comfort. Today, guests can wander through several hectares of parkland, explore peaceful walking trails, and enjoy the rare experience of staying within authentic stone walls that have stood for more than five centuries. It’s a gentle blend of history, nature, and French countryside charm — a true gem among castle hotels in the Loire region.
💡 Travel Tip: Hapimag Château de Chabenet is an ideal weekend getaway from Paris with about 150 km to the hotel.
Schloss Lieser is a 19th-century castle, built between 1884 and 1887 in the beautiful Mosel Valley for the German industrialist Eduard Puricelli and later owned by his family. Its architecture blends Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles, and it served as a private residence and social hub into the early 20th century. Today, it’s been transformed into a luxury hotel while still retaining that architectural and cultural heritage.
🕮 Suggested Read: Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Moselle Valley from the deck of a big cruise ship, and create lifelong memories.
The core of the hotel is Schloss Bensberg, a baroque palace built in the early 18th century for Prince-Elector Johann Wilhelm II, inspired by Versailles and Winchester Castle. The structure started life as a royal hunting lodge and baroque palace with genuine historic roots from the 1700s. Over the centuries the building served multiple real-world roles — from military hospital to boarding school — before being restored and opened as a luxury castle hotel in 2000.
Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg is pet-friendly. You can bring dogs, but there’s typically an extra charge per pet per night. Service animals are usually exempt from the fee. Pets aren’t allowed in the fine-dining restaurants or spa areas, so plan ahead if you’ll want to dine or relax on-site with your companion.
If you love a quiet stay with plenty of hiking trails in the nearby forests, then Althoff Grandhotel Schloss Bensberg is for you.
Schlosshotel Ralswiek in Germany was built from 1894 to 1896, with the east side facing the bay. In 1913, the Marstall was added to the design by the Stralsund master builder Franz Juhre. The beautiful landscape park, with its botanical diversity, was created in 1810 and expanded around 1900. The largely preserved interior (entrance hall, stairwell, paneling, door handles, glass windows) was partly designed by Art Nouveau architect Henry van de Velde. Schlosshotel Ralswiek is a family-friendly stay.
(also known as Parádsasvár Castle Hotel)
Parádsasvár is a small village in northern Hungary, and is famous for its glass factory. The Károlyi family built the castle in 1881, which later became a hunting lodge. Today, this most beautiful castle hotel, the first of Hungary’s castle hotels, is a 5-star hotel. It sits in the Mátra Hills, about 100km from Budapest. Take your pick between the Renaissance wing with its Biedermeier and Empire furniture, and the Romantique wing. There is also the Rendez-vous wing with tulle baldachin (canopy) beds. Kastélyhotel Sasvár Resort is stunning, surrounded by forest and near the village.
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Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur is one of India’s most iconic castle hotels, floating like a marble jewel in the middle of Lake Pichola. Completed in 1746, the palace was originally known as Jag Niwas, built as a summer retreat for Maharana Jagat Singh II of the Mewar dynasty — one of the world’s oldest royal lineages. For centuries, the palace served as a serene royal refuge, accessible only by boat and reserved for moments of leisure, celebration, and monsoon retreats.
During the British era, Jag Niwas continued to host dignitaries and royal guests, its white marble courtyards, colonnades, and rooftop pavilions becoming symbols of Rajput elegance. After India’s independence, the palace was transformed into a luxury hotel, gaining international fame when it appeared in the James Bond film Octopussy. A meticulous restoration by the Taj group preserved its original craftsmanship — from hand‑carved stonework to ornate jharokhas — while elevating it to one of the most luxurious castle hotels in the world.
Today, Taj Lake Palace remains a masterpiece of Rajput architecture, offering guests a rare chance to experience royal history surrounded by shimmering water, panoramic views of Udaipur’s palaces, and the timeless romance that earned the city its nickname, the “Venice of the East.”
🕮 Suggested Read: Planning a trip to Mumbai? Step inside Mumbai’s beautiful Jain Temple, an architectural masterpiece. Have a look!
Dromoland Castle boasts a long and storied history, with the earliest evidence of a structure on the site dating back to the 15th or early 16th century, likely in the form of a tower house, indicating habitation for at least 500 years. The main building that stands today was completed in 1835, marking its presence for 189 years as the grand castle estate we admire today.
Castle Leslie Estate in County Monaghan is one of Ireland’s most storied castle hotels, with a history that stretches back to the 1660s when the Leslie family first settled on the land. The current castle, built in the 1870s in a romantic Scottish Baronial style, has hosted poets, politicians, and even royalty over the centuries — including Sir Paul McCartney, who famously married here. For generations, the estate remained a private family home, filled with heirlooms, portraits, and the eccentric charm of the Leslie lineage.
After falling into decline in the late 20th century, Castle Leslie underwent an extensive restoration beginning in the 1990s, carefully returning the estate to its former grandeur. Today, it blends historic character with modern comfort across its castle rooms, lodge accommodations, and village cottages. With 1,000 acres of woodlands, lakes, and rolling countryside, plus equestrian facilities, fine dining, and serene spa experiences, Castle Leslie Estate offers guests the rare chance to stay within a living piece of Irish history — a place where heritage, romance, and warm hospitality come together beautifully.
Award-Winning Stays
Why stay here: A romantic, storybook estate known for its equestrian experiences and serene countryside.
Best room to book: Heritage rooms in the castle offer the most character and charm.
Ideal season: Summer for horseback riding; autumn for peaceful, colorful landscapes.
Perfect for: Couples, equestrians, and guests seeking a tranquil rural retreat.
Packing tip: Pack outdoor clothing if you plan to explore the estate or ride.
Booking tip: Equestrian activities fill up quickly — reserve ahead if riding is on your list.
💡 Travel Tip: Castle Leslie Estate sits just 80 minutes from Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast.
Originally built in 1228, Ashford Castle is about 800 years old. It began as a fortified stronghold for the Anglo-Norman de Burgo (Burke) family in the early 13th century, then expanded and renovated over the centuries into the grand luxury castle hotel you can visit today. When you wander the corridors and grounds today, you’re literally walking through centuries of Irish history.
Award-Winning Stays
Luttrellstown Castle has a rich history dating back over 800 years! Its origins can be traced to the 15th century, making it truly historic and fascinating. The grounds of this 560-acre estate are picturesque and perfect for leisurely walks or enjoying outdoor activities like golf. Plus, the resort amenities and service are top-notch, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay.
The castle has 20 individually designed castle rooms plus additional ones in the Gardener’s Cottage. However, these rooms aren’t sold as individual hotel rooms like a regular hotel. They’re part of an exclusive private hire experience — you rent the entire castle or a specially packaged stay rather than one room at a time. Think of Luttrellstown Castle Resorts as the venue for your dream wedding in a castle, or a special anniversary with family and friends.
💡Travel Tips: If you really want the castle stay vibe without the full exclusive hire price tag, ask about special event packages (Christmas stays, family celebrations, etc.) where they offer structured multi-night options that include castle rooms and activities. Those sometimes have a clearer booking path than a pure private hire quote.
If you’re not looking to hire the whole place but want to visit for afternoon tea, a meal, golf or a day experience, those can often be booked separately
Award-Winning Stays
The castle is a defensive castle in the village of Czocha (Gmina Lesna), Lubań County, Lower Silesian Voivodeship, in southwestern Poland. Its construction was ordered by Wenceslaus I of Bohemia in the middle of the 13th century (1241–1247). Zamek Czocha is one of the few castles in the world with its original structure still intact. The rooms are decorated with classical furniture and period accessories.
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Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais is one of Portugal’s most graceful castle hotels, set on the lush slopes of the Sintra Mountains. Built in the late 18th century as a neoclassical palace for the Dutch consul Daniel Gildemeester, it later passed to the Marquis of Marialva, who expanded the estate and added the iconic triumphal arch that still frames the gardens today. Over the centuries, Seteais became a gathering place for aristocrats, artists, and European nobility drawn to Sintra’s romantic landscape — a region once described by Lord Byron as a “glorious Eden.”
Carefully restored in the 20th century, the palace now blends its aristocratic heritage with refined modern comfort. Inside, you’ll find frescoed walls, antique furnishings, and elegant rooms with views of the Moorish Castle and Pena Palace — two of Portugal’s most treasured landmarks. With its manicured gardens, spa, outdoor pool, and panoramic dining, Valverde Sintra Palácio de Seteais remains a beloved choice for weddings, honeymoons, and romantic escapes, offering guests the rare chance to experience Sintra’s history from within a living piece of it.
Award-Winning Stays
Inverlochy Castle in Fort William is one of Scotland’s most atmospheric castle hotels, uniquely positioned beside the ruins of a 13th‑century fortress that once stood at the center of Highland power. The original stronghold witnessed two of Scotland’s most significant clan conflicts: the First Battle of Inverlochy in 1431, where Clan Donald triumphed over the forces of King James I, and the Second Battle of Inverlochy in 1645, when the Marquis of Montrose led a dramatic winter march to defeat the Covenanter army of the Marquis of Argyll. Although today’s Inverlochy Castle Hotel was built in the 19th century as a grand Victorian mansion, its setting places guests directly within this storied landscape. Staying here means enjoying refined Victorian elegance while surrounded by centuries of Highland history shaped by clans, conflict, and shifting royal influence.
Award-Winning Stays
🕮 Suggested Read: A road trip to explore the charming and tranquil villages of Scotland, featuring Fort William.
Dalhousie Castle in Bonnyrigg is one of Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited castle hotels, with a history stretching back more than 700 years. The site has been home to the Ramsay family since the 13th century, and the oldest surviving parts of the castle date to around 1450. Over the centuries, Dalhousie has witnessed clan battles, royal visits, and turbulent chapters of Scottish history — including hosting King Edward I and later Mary, Queen of Scots. Set on wooded parkland along the River Esk, the castle feels wonderfully secluded. Today, Dalhousie Castle Hotel blends its medieval heritage with modern comfort, offering award‑winning dining, a relaxing spa, and the rare chance to sleep within walls that have stood for centuries.
💡 Travel Tip: Dalhousie Castle is only a 20‑minute drive from Edinburgh and just minutes from the legendary Rosslyn Chapel.
Set high above the Ayrshire coast in southwest Scotland, Glenapp Castle is one of the most elegant castle hotels in the region — a five‑star Scottish baronial mansion built in 1870. More laird’s manor than medieval fortress, its turrets and crow‑stepped gables bring a touch of old‑world romance to a property that began life as a private family estate before opening as a hotel in 2000. Today, Glenapp feels like staying in a privately owned country estate, complete with sweeping sea views toward Ailsa Craig and Arran, oak‑panelled halls, lush gardens, and refined interiors that let you feel the history rather than simply observe it. Its charm doesn’t come from battlements or battle scars, but from Victorian craftsmanship, lived‑in warmth, and the thoughtful comfort that defines exceptional castle hotels
Award-Winning Stays
Castle Hotel Galicia Nueva in Halic is one of Slovakia’s most enchanting castle hotels, with roots tracing back to its first mention in 1450. Over the centuries, the castle passed through noble families, witnessed regional conflicts, and evolved from a medieval stronghold into an elegant manor residence. After falling into disrepair in the 20th century, it was purchased in 2006 by a development company from Košice, who undertook a meticulous restoration to revive its historic grandeur. Today, the castle stands proudly as a 4‑star hotel and spa, where each room and suite reflects a different historical or artistic style. It’s a beautiful blend of heritage and modern comfort — a true fairytale stay in the heart of Slovakia.
⭐ Did You Know?
Bratislava in Slovakia is one of Europe’s best holiday destinations in 2019, taking the 9th spot.
Perched high above the River Júcar in Cuenca, the Parador de Alarcón is one of Spain’s most atmospheric castle hotels, inviting guests to step directly into the Middle Ages. This authentic medieval fortress, with Arab origins stretching back more than 1,300 years, was captured by King Alfonso VIII in 1184 and expanded over the centuries. Restored in the 20th century and transformed into a Parador hotel, it now offers travelers the rare chance to sleep within stone walls that once defended the town. A stay here is more than a getaway — it’s a full immersion into Spain’s medieval past, complete with breathtaking views, historic architecture, and the timeless charm of a castle reborn as a luxury retreat.
Château Gütsch in Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most charming castle hotels, set in a 19th‑century hilltop castle overlooking the city and lake. After much of the original structure was lost in the great fire of 1888, the hotel was rebuilt in 1901 with a fairytale design inspired by Bavaria’s Neuschwanstein. Further renovations in 2012 and 2014 restored its romantic character, complete with bay windows, beamed ceilings, Victorian stucco, golden canopy beds, and cozy sleigh beds. Today, it’s a dreamy blend of history and elegance — and it offers one of the most beautiful views in Lucerne.
🕮 Suggested Read: Feel like a getaway to the Swiss Alps? Why not go to Wengen?
Çırağan Palace Kempinski in Istanbul is one of the most iconic palace‑style castle hotels in Turkey, originally built between 1863 and 1867 as a grand Ottoman residence on the European shore of the Bosphorus. After a devastating fire in 1910 left only the outer walls standing, the palace was carefully restored and reopened in 1992 with luxurious suites and elegant dining. A further restoration in 2007 brought back its authentic baroque character, complete with soft colors and refined architectural details, making it one of the most spectacular castle hotels to experience in Istanbul.
🕮 Suggested Read: What to do if you only have one day in Istanbul.
Construction of the castle started in 1894 and took five years to complete. Films such as ‘Knights of the Round Table’ starring Ava Gardner, ‘Dracula’, starring Sir Laurence Olivier, and many others have been filmed here. Camelot Castle, also the private home of John and Irina Mappin, is managed by the family’s private household staff. John originally bought the castle with the idea of bringing together people from all fields of the arts and, in doing so, elevating British art. But having experienced the pleasure of guests enjoying the castle atmosphere, they decided to share the beauty and splendor with the public.
Why stay here: A dramatic clifftop castle hotel inspired by Arthurian legend, overlooking the wild Cornish coast.
Best room to book: Sea‑view rooms offer sweeping views of Tintagel Castle and the rugged coastline.
Ideal season: Late spring to early autumn for coastal walks and milder weather.
Perfect for: Mythology lovers, hikers, and travelers drawn to dramatic landscapes.
Packing tip: Bring windproof layers — the Atlantic breeze can be strong even on sunny days.
Booking tip: Book early during summer; Tintagel is a popular destination for day‑trippers.
Thornbury Castle in Gloucestershire is one of England’s finest Tudor castle hotels, with origins dating back to 1511 when it was built as a grand residence for the third Duke of Buckingham. Its centuries‑old stone walls, regal architecture, and beautifully preserved details offer a rare glimpse into Tudor life. Today, this historic fortress has been transformed into a luxurious hotel and restaurant, welcoming guests to stay where royalty once walked. It’s a magical blend of heritage and comfort — truly one of the most unforgettable castle hotels you can experience.
Staying in one of the most beautiful castle hotels in the world is more than a luxurious getaway—it’s a chance to step back in time and experience history firsthand. These incredible properties, from grand castles to secluded hunting lodges, each tell their own unique story and offer an unforgettable blend of heritage and modern comfort. By booking a stay, you don’t just visit history—you live it, surrounded by timeless elegance and breathtaking landscapes. So, if you’re seeking a travel experience that combines authenticity, luxury, and a touch of royal charm, these castle hotels are truly in a class of their own.
💬 Have you ever stayed in a castle hotel—or is it still on your travel wish list? Share your tips, questions, or dream destinations in the comments. Your insight might inspire someone else’s fairytale getaway.
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