As the spring sunshine dances through the leaves, fairytale castles come to life, as if they’ve stepped right off the movie screen. Imagine wandering among the grand towers, sparkling windows, and mysterious hallways you’ve seen in romantic films—feeling the weight of history and the fresh spring breeze all around you.
If you love romance, history, and adventure, these castles might just inspire your next trip. We’re sharing seven iconic castles that you might know from movies and can visit in real life.
Peles Castle, Romania
Nestled in the Carpathians, Peles Castle in Sinaia was the filming location for the 2017 romantic comedy A Prince for Christmas. According to Travel + Leisure Asia, this neo-Renaissance palace opened in 1893 and was one of Europe’s first buildings with central heating and electric lighting.
Its 160 beautifully decorated rooms feature German stained glass windows, Murano crystal chandeliers, leather-covered walls, and hand-embroidered silk. Once the residence of the Romanian royal family, today it’s a museum where you can glimpse royal luxury.
In the film, a journalist secretly follows the crown prince to a royal event, sparking unexpected romantic adventures.
Dundas and Tantallon Castles, Scotland
Dundas Castle, built in the 15th century near Edinburgh, was the setting for interior scenes in the film The Christmas Castle. Today it’s a private residence but available for exclusive events, corporate gatherings, and Christmas lunches.
Tantallon Castle is a 14th-century ruined fortress perched dramatically on a seaside cliff, appearing in the film during characters’ road trips.
The film tells the story of a bestselling author who flees to Scotland to escape a scandal. She falls for a castle owner, Myles Dunbar, leading to charming clashes. Fun fact: the New York scenes were actually filmed in Scotland’s Dakota Hotel restaurant.
Charleville Castle, Ireland
The Gothic Charleville Castle near Tullamore was the filming location for Norwich scenes in the 2019 movie The Christmas Knight. Known as one of Europe’s most haunted buildings, it has featured in several TV shows about ghosts and mysterious places.
The story follows a medieval knight who finds himself in the modern world and falls for a high school teacher who had lost faith in love.
Charleville Castle has also appeared in other films like the 2007 Becoming Jane and the 2021 The Green Knight.
Károlyi Castle, Romania
The Károlyi Castle in Nagykároly served as the royal palace of Belgravia in the 2018 film Christmas Switch. Originally a 15th-century fortress, it was transformed into a castle in 1794. The surrounding park is filled with rare plants that add a magical atmosphere.
Today, the castle is a cultural center with a library, museum, event spaces, and an observation tower. In the film, a princess and a Chicago woman swap places before Christmas, sparking complex romantic twists that change their lives.
Dromoland Castle, Ireland
The 16th-century Dromoland Castle was the main setting for the 2021 film Christmas at an Irish Castle. Originally owned by the O’Brien family, including Ireland’s legendary king Brian Boru, it’s now a luxury hotel surrounded by 500 hectares of untouched park and forest.
Visitors can experience the former grandeur of noble life here. The story follows Brooke Bennett, who travels to Ireland to explore her roots and is unexpectedly asked to organize a big Christmas event.
Duns Castle, Scotland
The 14th-century Duns Castle sits on a vast estate surrounded by forests, gardens, and a nature reserve. It appeared as Glencrave Castle in the 2023 film A Merry Scottish Christmas.
The story centers on two estranged siblings spending Christmas in a famous Scottish castle, where a surprising family secret unfolds.
Fun fact: the film reunites Lacey Chabert and Scott Wolf, who previously starred together in the series The Five.
These castles offer more than just movie magic—they’re perfect for history buffs and lovers of spring landscapes too. If you’re planning a spring getaway this year, consider adding these enchanting spots to your itinerary.
