Every girl dreams of her wedding day as a fairytale, and we’ve found 12 heavenly castles in Europe that are fit for a princess.
Table of Contents
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenschwangau, Germany
Inspired by Romanesque Revival, Neuschwanstein Castle, is a stunning masterpiece of nineteenth-century architecture. This south German palace in Bavaria boasts the most spectacular scenery being situated on a hilltop setting, overlooking the picturesque mountains and glistening sunset.
2. Hluboká Castle, Hluboká nad Vltavou, Czech Republic
The Hluboká Castle was built in the second half of the 13th Century in Hluboká nad Vltavou and is amongst the most popular wedding castles in the Czech Republic because of its Renaissance distinctive architecture and idyllic scenery of south Bohemia.
3. Schloss Igls, Austria
Schloss Igls is an Austrian castle that screams winter wonderland wedding! Think having a wintered theme would include rain, gumboots and excessive shivering? Think again. Located in the the heart of the Tyrollean Alps, Schloss Igls is a secluded estate that offers awe-inspiring views of opulent white snow and the imposing mountains. With both privacy and lavish accommodation provided – this castle is a gem!
4. Château D’Escliomont, St. Symphorien-le-Château, France
Inspired by the Renaissance, Chateau D’Escliomont is a traditional castle situated in the middle of Paris and Versailles, surrounded by 150-acres of green woodland. This French castle epitomises romance with rustic stone bricks, filigree balconies and a beautiful pond surrounding the building. Wedding packages are provided and you can compose your own wedding menu!
5. Belvoir Castle, Leicestershire, England
Belvoir Castle is perked on a beautiful hilltop setting offering stunning panoramic views of the 2,500-acres of green parkland in Leicestershire. Home to the duke and duchess and its gothic revival architecture, the castle boasts towering points, descending staircases and medieval- style turrets that add a royal touch to your special day. Rose Gardens, grande dining rooms and wedding breakfasts that hold up to 120 guests are available for your ceremony, while the reception can be held in traditional halls and ballrooms adorned with beautiful chandeliers, embodying an elegance with a gothic twist.
6. Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland
Ashford castle is located in the heart of 350 acres of parkland overlooking the beautiful lake, Lough Corrib. This castle was built in 1228 and features medieval 13th century architecture that is perfect for a wedding of romance and elegance with a home feel. Ashford Castle can accommodate both large weddings with up to 164 guests and intimate affairs of 40 to 10 guests which can all be held in their elegant rooms that are adorned with antique furniture and intricate decor fit for magical romance.
7. Odescalchi Castle, Bracciano, Italy
Image from Suzanne Fossey
Home to the wedding of Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, we already know this castle is a big deal!
Located in the spectacular Italian city of Bracciano, Lazio on the southern shore of lake Bracciano, this castle features spectacular mediterranean views from every angle and boasts 500 years of history from the decor, to the atmosphere and architecture! Wedding packages start at $10,000.
8. Château de Mercuès, Cahors, France
Photo: J-L. Nespoulous
Château de Mercuès is a 13th century castle guaranteed to make your fairytale wedding one to remember! This castle is includes the perfect ingredients for a magical wedding – deliciously gourmet food, luxury accommodation and being situated on a wine estate – great wine!9.
9. Balfour Castle, Shapinsay, Orkney Islands, Scotland
Balfour Castle has been transformed into a luxurious 5-star hotel that also serves as a perfect place to tie the knot. Balfour Castle features Victorian antiques and a stunning scenery of Orkney as the perfect backdrop for your wedding pics!
10. Palacio de Pena, Sintra, Portugal
Elevate your love to a whole new level by getting married at the heavenly palace of Pena. Celebrate your love by saying ‘I do’ in the vibrant and royal palace which was formerly a Portuguese monarch that will make you feel like royalty! The palace is situated in a national park with the medieval Santa Maria church a short distance from the palace. This castle boasts a vibrant and exotic atmosphere with cocktails, live music and dancers and a breath taking view of the sunset – love is truly in the air!
11. Tjolöholm Castle
Tjolöholm Castle was built with the inspiration of English 16th century style and features rich green gardens and a quaint village with a church. It’s the perfect location for a fairytale wedding that stays true to tradition. Several halls and rooms seat guests for both a large and intimate wedding and the castle accommodates to both summer and winter wedding with ceremonies being held on the lawn between the castle and sea or inside with an open-fire in the atmosphere.
12. Château de Challain
Château is French for Castle, where romance meets elegance. Château de Challain is the ultimate experience for a ideal French wedding that serves you wine and dining services, luxurious suite accommodations and bed and breakfast, sure to make your wedding day truly magical. The Château de Challain is a remarkable retreat that features a private Chapel for your ceremony with a hand-painted gold ceiling for that royal touch and services such as dinner and cocktail at the reception.
