Have you ever dreamed of waking up in a four-poster bed, looking out a stone window at a misty valley, and feeling like royalty? Well, stop dreaming and start packing. Europe is dotted with hundreds of castles that have been converted into hotels, ranging from affordable state-run hostels to some of the most luxurious resorts on the planet.
Staying in a castle is not just about a place to sleep; it’s about immersing yourself in history. It’s about walking the same halls as knights and queens, dining in banquet halls where treaties were signed, and perhaps even encountering a friendly ghost or two.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon suite, a unique family adventure, or a solo retreat into the past, here is our comprehensive guide to 7 real castles you can actually sleep in.
1. Ashford Castle, Ireland 🇮🇪
Vibe: Ultimate Luxury & Aristocratic Grandeur
Often voted the best hotel in the world, Ashford Castle in County Mayo is the gold standard of castle hotels. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a 26,000-acre estate that offers a glimpse into the life of the landed gentry.
The History: Founded in 1228 by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family, Ashford has a pedigree that rivals any royal palace. Over the centuries, it changed hands between noble families, eventually being purchased by the Guinness family (yes, the beer dynasty) in 1852. They transformed it into the Victorian neo-Gothic masterpiece you see today. It has hosted King George V, John Lennon, and Ronald Reagan.
The Experience:
- The Rooms: Each of the 83 rooms is unique, featuring original art, antique furniture, and custom carpets. The “Reagan Presidential Suite” is a particular highlight.
- Activities: The estate is a playground for country pursuits. You can try your hand at archery, clay pigeon shooting, or horseback riding.
- Dining: The George V Dining Room offers a formal experience with crystal chandeliers, while the Dungeon Bar provides a more casual, atmospheric setting with traditional Irish music.
Highlight: The School of Falconry is the oldest in Ireland. Taking a “Hawk Walk” through the woods with a bird of prey landing on your gloved fist is an unforgettable experience.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury - Expect to splurge)
2. Parador de Cardona, Spain 🇪🇸
Vibe: Authentic Medieval Fortress
Located about an hour from Barcelona, this 9th-century fortress stands atop a hill overlooking the salt mines of the Cardoner River valley. This is not a Disney-fied castle; it is a rugged, imposing military fortification that feels like stepping directly into the Middle Ages.
The History: Built in 886 by Wilfred the Hairy (Guifré el Pilós), the castle was a strategic stronghold during the Reconquista. It was the residence of the Lords of Cardona, known as the “Kings without Crowns” due to their immense wealth and power. The complex includes the Romanesque Church of Sant Vicenç and the Minyona Tower, dating back to the 11th century.
The Experience:
- The Rooms: The interiors strike a balance between medieval austerity and modern comfort. Think stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and heavy wooden furniture.
- Atmosphere: The “Paradores” are state-run hotels in historic buildings, known for high standards. The atmosphere here is quiet and contemplative.
- Dining: The medieval dining hall serves Catalan specialties like butifarra (sausage) with white beans and local wines.
Highlight: Room 712. It is famously rumored to be haunted. Guests have reported moving furniture and ghostly apparitions. The hotel will only book you into this room if you specifically request it!
Price Range: $$ (Moderate - Excellent value for history buffs)
3. Castle Hotel Auf Schönburg, Germany 🇩🇪
Vibe: Rhine River Romance
Overlooking the Rhine River in the town of Oberwesel, Schönburg Castle offers the classic German fairytale experience. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley, it sits high on a rocky crag surrounded by vineyards.
The History: First mentioned in history in 911, the Schönburg was the ancestral home of a powerful lineage that ruled the region for centuries. In the 17th century, it was burned down by French troops during the Palatine War of Succession and lay in ruins for two centuries. It was lovingly restored in the late 19th century and eventually converted into a hotel in the 1950s.
The Experience:
- The Rooms: There are only 27 rooms, making it feel intimate. Many offer balconies with breathtaking views of the Rhine River winding through the valley below.
- The Grounds: The castle garden is a delight, with hidden nooks, a tortoise enclosure, and a library tower.
- Dining: A four-course gourmet dinner is often included in the room rate and served in a knight’s hall with stained glass windows.
Highlight: The sheer verticality of the location. Sipping a Riesling on the terrace while watching barges navigate the Rhine below is the definition of relaxation.
Price Range: $$$ (Upscale - Inclusive of meals)
4. Pousada de Óbidos, Portugal 🇵🇹
Vibe: Historic Gem in a Walled City
Situated within the perfectly preserved walled medieval town of Óbidos, this castle is officially one of the “7 Wonders of Portugal”. Staying here gives you a key to the city after all the tourists have gone home.
The History: Óbidos has a romantic legacy; it was traditionally given as a wedding gift by the Kings of Portugal to their Queens. The castle itself has Roman origins but was significantly expanded under Moorish rule and later by Portuguese monarchs. The Pousada (historic hotel) opened in the 1950s, pioneering the concept of heritage lodging in Portugal.
The Experience:
- The Rooms: There are rooms located in the castle keep (the tower) and in the adjoining “Casa do Castelo”. The tower rooms feature exposed stone and slit windows.
- The Town: Being inside the walls means you can explore the cobblestone streets of Óbidos early in the morning or late at night, enjoying the silence and atmosphere.
- Dining: The restaurant serves regional delicacies like Caldeirada de Peixe (fish stew) and the famous Ginjinha (sour cherry liqueur) served in chocolate cups.
Highlight: Walking the castle walls at sunset. The walls encircle the entire town, offering panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops and the surrounding vineyards.
Price Range: $$$ (Upscale)
5. Castello di Monterone, Italy 🇮🇹
Vibe: Umbrian Charm & Relaxation
Just outside the medieval city of Perugia, Castello di Monterone offers a perfect blend of history and Italian “dolce vita”. It feels more like a noble country residence than a military fortress, making it ideal for relaxation.
The History: The first reference to the castle dates back to the 13th century. It served as a strategic watchtower guarding the road between Perugia and Assisi. It was severely damaged during various wars between rival Italian factions but was restored in the 19th century in a romantic neo-Gothic style, incorporating ancient reliefs and architectural fragments into the walls.
The Experience:
- The Rooms: Each room is named after a historical figure or theme. Expect terra cotta floors, wooden beams, and wrought-iron beds.
- Wellness: Unlike many old castles, this one features a modern wellness area with a sauna, Turkish bath, and a hydromassage pool.
- The Views: The castle terrace offers sweeping views of the green Umbrian hills and the distant skyline of Perugia.
Highlight: The outdoor swimming pool located in the castle garden. Swimming in the shadow of medieval battlements is a surreal and delightful experience.
Price Range: $$ (Moderate - Very accessible luxury)
6. Château de Bagnols, France 🇫🇷
Vibe: Historic Elegance & Gastronomy
Located in the Beaujolais wine region near Lyon, Château de Bagnols is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. It is a place for serious foodies and those who appreciate art history.
The History: Built between 1217 and 1221, the castle was transformed during the Renaissance to be more comfortable and beautiful. It is famous for its incredible preservation—many of the wall paintings and fireplaces you see today are original from the 15th and 16th centuries. It has a dry moat, a drawbridge, and towers that make a striking first impression.
The Experience:
- The Rooms: The suites are palatial. You might find yourself sleeping in a bed draped with heavy velvet curtains, surrounded by frescoes that are hundreds of years old.
- Dining: The hotel is home to a Michelin-starred dining experience (check current status as chefs change). The cuisine focuses on local Beaujolais produce and wines.
- Atmosphere: It is sophisticated and quiet. This is a place to dress up for dinner and sip vintage wine by a massive stone fireplace.
Highlight: The Salle des Gardes (Guard Room), which serves as the reception area. With its monumental gothic fireplace and coat of arms, it sets the tone for the entire stay.
Price Range: $$$$ (Luxury - A bucket-list destination)
7. Amberley Castle, England 🇬🇧
Vibe: quintessential English Countryside
If you want the full “Downton Abbey meets Medieval Knight” experience, Amberley Castle in West Sussex is the place. It is a 900-year-old castle enclosed by a 60-foot high curtain wall, yet inside, it is a haven of manicured gardens and comfort.
The History: Originally a hunting lodge for the bishops of Chichester, it was fortified in 1377. It has seen its share of conflict, particularly during the English Civil War when it was attacked by Oliver Cromwell’s forces. You can still see the damage on the walls from the cannon fire! Queen Elizabeth II visited the castle during her youth, adding a touch of modern royal connection.
The Experience:
- The Rooms: The 19 bedrooms are furnished with antiques and fine fabrics. Accessing them often involves navigating spiral staircases and narrow corridors.
- The Grounds: The 12-acre grounds are immaculate, featuring tennis courts, a croquet lawn, and two resident white peacocks that roam freely.
- Dining: The Queen’s Room restaurant offers fine dining under a 12th-century barrel-vaulted ceiling.
Highlight: The Portcullis. Every night, the massive oak portcullis is lowered to secure the castle. Being inside when the gates close gives you a genuine sense of being in a safe, secluded fortress.
Price Range: $$$ (Upscale)
Essential Tips for Booking Your Castle Stay
- Book Early: The best rooms—especially those located in towers or with specific historical features—often sell out 6 to 12 months in advance.
- Check Accessibility: Medieval architects did not care about ADA compliance. Many castles have steep spiral staircases, uneven floors, and no elevators. If mobility is an issue, email the hotel in advance to request a ground-floor room.
- Look for “Paradores” (Spain) and “Pousadas” (Portugal): These state-run networks are dedicated to preserving historic buildings. They often offer the best balance of authentic history and modern hotel standards at a reasonable price.
- Pack Appropriately: Castles can be drafty, even with modern heating. Pack warm layers, especially for the evenings. Conversely, many do not have air conditioning (thick stone walls keep them cool), so check ahead if visiting in high summer.
- Ask for a Tour: Many castle hotels offer private tours for guests. Ask the concierge if they can show you the “hidden” parts of the castle, like the dungeons, battlements, or old wine cellars.
Ready to live your fairytale? These 7 castles prove that you don’t need a time machine to experience the magic of the past—you just need a reservation.