Celebrating a wedding in a European castle is synonymous with living an unforgettable day full of magic, history and sophistication. There is nothing like walking down the aisle surrounded by walls, spectacular gardens and the incomparable charm of these incredible castles that combine tradition and luxury. These castles, located in the most beautiful corners of the continent, become the perfect setting for an unforgettable “I do.”
Europe is home to an unrivaled collection of castles that have witnessed centuries of history and love. Many of them open their doors to offer couples the opportunity to experience a dream wedding surrounded by panoramic views that seem straight out of a storybook. Each castle has its own essence, allowing each couple to find the perfect place that suits their style and vision.
Choosing the ideal castle in Europe will depend on various factors, such as its location, time of year and specific features that make it stand out. Some castles offer spacious reception halls, while others have outdoor spaces for intimate ceremonies under the sky.
In this article we will explore the best European castles to make your dream of a wedding in a European castle come true. You will not only choose a place to get married, but an experience full of details that will remain engraved in your memory. And if you have not yet proposed to your partner, we also know the best European castles for this!
Let’s get started!
Château de Challain, France: Luxury in the Heart of the Loire Valley
Located in the picturesque Loire Valley, Château de Challain is known as the “little Versailles” for its imposing neo-Gothic architecture and exquisite design. This 19th-century castle offers the possibility of hosting both intimate ceremonies and grand banquets inside or in its spacious gardens.
The castle has several wedding venues: from its banquet hall, adorned with chandeliers, to its perfectly manicured gardens, ideal for outdoor ceremonies during spring and summer. In addition, at sunset the light changes to golden hues and can provide a perfect background for photographs.
For those looking for a unique touch, Château de Challain offers exclusive accommodation for the bride and groom and their guests, allowing for a complete destination wedding experience. In addition, the castle adapts to different themes, from classic luxury weddings to romantic celebrations with personalized decoration.
It is a privilege to be able to stroll through the gardens of this castle or enjoy an unforgettable reception, like this sunset wedding in a medieval castle in France.
Cortal Gran Castle, Spain: Catalan elegance on the Costa Brava
Cortal Gran Castle, located on the Costa Brava, is a dream space where history merges with nature. Surrounded by fields of olive trees and Mediterranean pines, this 15th-century fortified castle is ideal for those looking for an elegant and charming wedding.
Ceremonies can be held both in its spacious gardens and inside its main hall, and the spring and summer months are perfect for making the most of its exteriors, although in autumn the colors of the natural landscape will add a magical touch.
From the wedding menu to the last detail, at this castle you can customize everything to make your wedding in a European castle unique, intimate and sophisticated. For further inspiration, you can discover Laia and Gerard’s dazzling, elegant disco ball wedding held at this location.
Ashford Castle, Ireland: a medieval jewel in a fairytale setting
In County Mayo, surrounded by Lough Corrib and a dreamlike landscape, lies Ashford Castle, one of Ireland’s most emblematic jewels. This 13th-century castle combines impressive medieval architecture with the elegance of a luxury hotel, allowing weddings to be held both in its interior rooms and in its well-kept gardens.
Outdoor ceremonies are especially popular in spring and summer, when the weather highlights the natural beauty of the surroundings. On the other hand, indoors, with stone fireplaces and period decorations, offer a warm and cozy space for winter weddings.
The castle offers multiple options to customize every aspect of the wedding in a European castle, from menus with local products to activities for guests, such as boat trips on the lake or tours of the castle. In addition, its exclusivity and impeccable service make it an ideal location for destination weddings.
Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, France: The Baroque Luxury Castle Near Paris
Just 50 kilometres from Paris lies Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a true emblem of luxury and Baroque art. Built in the 17th century, this stunning castle was designed by the same architects, gardeners and artists who later worked on the Palace of Versailles. Its rich history, architectural elegance and perfectly symmetrical gardens make it a dream location for any couple wishing for an unforgettable wedding.
The castle offers various options for holding weddings both indoors and outdoors. During the spring and summer months, its gardens are an ideal setting for outdoor ceremonies, with fountains, statues and paths enhancing the romanticism of the venue. In autumn, the warm colours of the trees add a magical atmosphere, while winter brings with it the possibility of intimate weddings in its grand halls, decorated with chandeliers and antique furniture.
Furthermore, this castle has served as the setting for numerous films, such as Marie Antoinette, making it a location renowned for its cinematic charm. A great advantage is that couples can enjoy an exclusive experience, as the castle is closed to the public during the celebration, ensuring maximum privacy for the bride and groom and guests.
Exchanging vows surrounded by centuries of art and splendor is a unique experience that this castle offers, making it an iconic location for a wedding in a European castle.
Bled Castle, Slovenia: Dreamy views over the most romantic lake in Europe
Bled Castle in Slovenia stands majestically on a cliff overlooking the iconic Lake Bled. This postcard-perfect location is ideal for couples dreaming of a wedding in an incomparable natural setting, surrounded by mountains, crystal-clear water and an air of absolute tranquility.
The castle offers an exclusive space for ceremonies and receptions. Its terrace, with panoramic views of the lake and the island at its centre, is perfect for exchanging vows under the open sky. Although, if your wedding is in winter, it will also take on a magical character with the snow covering the entire landscape.
The history of Bled Castle dates back to the 11th century, and its interiors maintain that medieval air that captivates any visitor. The bride and groom can even personalize their celebration with traditional Slovenian music or menus that include local dishes such as the famous Bled cream cake.
One of the most unique attractions of this place is the possibility of taking a boat trip to the island on the lake before or after the ceremony. This small gesture can become an unforgettable moment for both the bride and groom and the guests. For a destination wedding that combines nature and culture, Bled is an exceptional choice.
Inveraray Castle, Scotland: Elegance in the Heart of the Highlands
In the Scottish Highlands lies Inveraray Castle, a Gothic and Georgian architectural gem that attracts couples from all over the world. This castle is not only famous for its impressive façade and well-kept gardens, but also for its rich history, being the ancestral home of the Duke of Argyll.
The castle offers several wedding venues, from its banqueting hall to its riverside gardens, where outdoor ceremonies are especially popular in summer. However, weddings in autumn and winter are also magical, as the castle is transformed into a cosy venue, with fireplaces and decorations that enhance its historic character.
For lovers of Scottish traditions, the castle can organise bagpipe shows or haggis dinners, adding an authentic touch to the celebration. Furthermore, the location in the Highlands allows guests to explore the nearby landscapes, from lakes to mountains, making the wedding an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria: wedding in a European castle on cliffs
Hohenwerfen Castle, located in the Salzburg Alps, is an impressive fortress perched on a cliff amidst a natural landscape that makes it a perfect location for a fairytale wedding. Here, the bride and groom can exchange their vows surrounded by history and beauty.
As options, you can choose between a ceremony and banquet in its gardens, or on the contrary, in its spacious interior halls. The castle preserves original elements from the Middle Ages, such as its stone walls, its towers and its internal church. Couples who choose this location will be able to enjoy an authentic and exclusive setting, with the possibility of celebrating a wedding both outdoors and in its church, which is one of the most picturesque in Austria.
The castle is also famous for its falconry shows, so the bride and groom can choose to include a display of birds of prey as part of their celebration. This activity, which takes place in the castle gardens, is one of the many options that make this place a unique choice for original weddings.
For couples who want a wedding with an authentic medieval feel, Hohenwerfen Castle is the ideal venue. Its architecture and setting provide the perfect atmosphere for an emotional ceremony and elegant banquet, while the region offers sightseeing options, such as river walks or visits to the nearby city of Salzburg, to make this an unforgettable wedding destination.
Chillon Castle, Switzerland: Lake Geneva Wedding
Located on the shores of Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle is one of Switzerland’s most famous castles. Its prime location, surrounded by water and overlooking the Alps, makes this venue an ideal choice for romantic and elegant weddings. Couples can choose to hold their ceremony in the castle or in its beautiful gardens, which are surrounded by the lake, and enjoy nature to the fullest.
The Princes’ Hall is one of the most beautiful areas of the castle, perfect for a luxurious and elegant ceremony, and the outdoor patio allows for an open-air wedding with the lake as a backdrop. As for the banquet, the castle offers several options, from intimate dinners in its medieval halls to large banquets in its courtyards, where the bride and groom and their guests can enjoy the fresh air and the view of the lake. During the warmer months, the gardens are ideal for a celebration in a natural setting.
The castle’s location, close to the city of Montreux, also offers a wide variety of activities for guests, such as walks around the lake, city tours or even excursions to the nearby mountains. In addition, the region is famous for its vineyards and gastronomy, allowing the bride and groom and their guests to enjoy a complete experience during their stay.
Eltz Castle, Germany: Fairytale Castle in the Heart of the Forest
Eltz Castle is one of the most impressive castles in Germany, and what makes it even more special is its secluded location in the heart of a forest in the valley of the Elz River. This medieval fortress, surrounded by unspoiled nature, offers a unique setting for a wedding in a European castle.
Although the castle does not allow ceremonies within its walls, couples can choose to have their wedding in the castle’s beautiful gardens, which boast views of the surrounding forest. This option offers an intimate and romantic experience, with the castle as a backdrop. Of course, the castle has a banquet hall where couples can host an unforgettable party for their guests.
Eltz Castle is a perfect wedding destination for those looking for a natural, peaceful and romantic setting. While the castle is less accessible than other castles in Europe, its beauty and exclusivity make it an ideal location for an intimate and unique wedding.
Castello di Vincigliata, Italy: castle in beautiful Tuscany
Castello di Vincigliata is one of the most beautiful castles in the Tuscany region, ideal for those looking for a place full of history, elegance and nature for their wedding in a European castle.
We recommend a wedding here in the spring and summer months as the gardens fill with flowers creating a lovely atmosphere, although its interior decorated with ancient frescoes and architectural details provides a romantic and sophisticated setting for the reception.
One of the most attractive features of Castello di Vincigliata is its exclusivity. The venue only allows one wedding at a time, ensuring an intimate and private experience for the bride and groom and their guests. In addition, the castle offers the possibility of personalizing all the details of the event, from the decoration to the choice of typical menus of the region, creating a wedding totally adapted to the tastes and desires of the couple.
The natural surroundings of Tuscany, with its rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves, add a unique touch to the experience. The bride and groom can take advantage of the beauty of the landscape for photo shoots, creating unforgettable memories in an atmosphere worthy of a movie.
If you are looking for a castle in Italy for an authentic and romantic wedding, the Castello di Vincigliata in Tuscany is an unrivalled choice.
Natalia Ortiz, your perfect guide to a European castle wedding
Organising a wedding in a European castle can seem like a challenge, but with the help of Natalia Ortiz, everything becomes an exciting and easy process. Natalia, from Weddings and Events by Natalia Ortiz, has years of experience planning dream weddings in the most exclusive locations in Europe.
Their team will not only help you find the ideal venue for a wedding in a European castle, but will also take care of every detail, from the decoration to the coordination of the wedding day. In addition, their knowledge of each destination ensures that each event is unique and reflects the personality of the bride and groom.
If you are looking to experience a wedding in a European castle, Natalia Ortiz will be your best ally to make this dream come true.