15 Incredible Castles Around the World That Double as Hotels

Dreamed of living like royalty—even if just for a night? You don’t need a crown or a fortune to make it happen. All over the world, historic castles have been transformed into hotels, inns, or Airbnb gems, offering the rare chance to sleep behind centuries-old stone walls. From moody Scottish fortresses to sunny Spanish citadels, here are 15 real castles where you can actually check in and live out your fairytale.

1. Ashford Castle – Ireland

Located in County Mayo, Ashford Castle is an 800-year-old fortress that has been turned into a luxurious five-star hotel. It was once owned by the Guinness family and still feels like a place where time stands still. Inside, you’ll find velvet drapes, antique furniture, and grand halls, but the vibe is warm and welcoming. Activities include falconry, horse riding, and boat trips on the lake. It’s definitely a splurge, but for one night, you can feel like Irish nobility.

2. Château de Bagnols – France

This beautifully restored 13th-century castle sits in the Beaujolais wine region of France. It’s surrounded by vineyards and forests, making it feel like something out of a medieval romance. Inside, you’ll find frescoed ceilings, massive stone fireplaces, and four-poster beds. The on-site restaurant serves refined French cuisine, and the grounds are perfect for slow walks with a glass of wine in hand. It’s both rustic and regal at the same time.

3. Burg Colmberg – Germany

Set on a hill in Bavaria, this 1,000-year-old fortress turned hotel offers thick stone walls, timbered ceilings, and killer views of the Franconian countryside. It’s more affordable than you’d expect, and the on-site restaurant serves hearty German fare in a medieval banquet hall. Fairytale meets bratwurst.

4. Parador de Cardona – Spain

Perched above a Catalan village, this Romanesque-Gothic castle has towers, dungeons, and views that stretch for miles. Now part of Spain’s Parador hotel network, it mixes medieval charm with modern comfort. You can sleep in a former watchtower and dine under vaulted ceilings without spending a fortune.

5. Dromoland Castle – Ireland

Dating back to the 16th century, Dromoland Castle is one of Ireland’s most iconic and elegant castle hotels. The castle grounds include a golf course, walled gardens, and a lake where you can row or fish. Inside, it’s pure luxury: chandeliers, sweeping staircases, and elegant rooms fit for royalty. The staff treat guests like lords and ladies, and the afternoon tea service is a must. It’s the full royal experience—no crown required.

6. Castle Hotel Auf Schönburg – Germany

Located above the Rhine River in the town of Oberwesel, Schönburg Castle has been carefully restored and now functions as a cozy and romantic hotel. The rooms have canopy beds, thick stone walls, and even suits of armor for decoration. Each room is unique, and some come with balconies overlooking the river. The gardens and towers are open for guests to explore, and the setting is straight out of a fairy tale.

7. Inverlochy Castle – Scotland

Inverlochy Castle, set near the base of Ben Nevis, is a 19th-century baronial mansion that feels like the set of a historical drama. The surrounding Highlands are breathtaking, and the castle itself is full of old charm with modern comfort. Queen Victoria once stayed here and said she never saw a more lovely spot. Today, it’s a peaceful retreat with gourmet dining and Highland hospitality.

8. Thornbury Castle – England

Once visited by Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, Thornbury Castle is a Tudor-era fortress in southwest England that’s now a luxury hotel. The rooms feature tapestries, carved wood, and historic fireplaces. The grounds include manicured gardens and stone walls that make it feel like you’ve stepped into the past. You can even stay in the exact room where the king once slept. It’s grand, atmospheric, and full of stories.

9. Kasteel Terworm – Netherlands

Close to the city of Heerlen, Kasteel Terworm is a 14th-century castle with a Renaissance flair. Surrounded by gardens, a moat, and forests, the castle has been turned into a stylish boutique hotel. Inside, you’ll find marble bathrooms, romantic décor, and a high-end restaurant. It’s a quiet retreat that combines Dutch hospitality with fairytale vibes, perfect for a peaceful night’s stay.

10. Castel Pergine – Italy

High in the Trentino mountains, this 13th-century castle once guarded trade routes. Now, it hosts art exhibitions and overnight guests in its stone-walled rooms. You can dine on local fare under gothic arches and explore the castle’s towers at your own pace. Bonus: it’s surprisingly budget-friendly.

11. Palacio de Seteais – Portugal

This neoclassical palace in Sintra isn’t a castle in the traditional medieval sense, but its grandeur and location make it a royal experience. Overlooking the hills and palaces of Sintra, the hotel offers marble halls, antique-filled rooms, and elegant gardens. You can sip wine on a terrace that once hosted nobles and artists. It’s luxury with a light, romantic touch.

12. Neidpath Castle – Scotland

For something more private and rugged, Neidpath Castle near Peebles in Scotland offers just one exclusive guest suite in its ancient stone tower. You’ll climb a spiral staircase, sleep in a massive four-poster bed, and dine by candlelight. It’s not a hotel—it’s a medieval experience, complete with tapestries and views of the River Tweed.

13. Clonalis House – Ireland

This grand manor in County Roscommon is the ancestral home of the O’Conor family, descendants of Irish royalty. While not a classic stone castle, Clonalis offers a stately and historical stay with warm hospitality. Guests enjoy antique-filled rooms, hearty Irish breakfasts, and quiet walks through woodlands and gardens. It’s perfect for travelers who want history without the tourist crowds.