For couples who love history, architecture, and breathtaking views, there’s nothing quite as magical as exploring a romantic castle together. The most romantic castles to visit together will be perched on a cliff. Nestled in rolling countryside. Or surrounded by a lake. And yet, they are all part of an enchanting getaway for empty nesters. So, if you are looking to reconnect and experience fairy-tale romance with your partner, consider one of these romantic castles for your next empty nester vacation.

Romantic Castles to Visit as Empty Nesters Traveling to Enchanting Destinations

Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany – The Best Romantic Castle to Visit

Disney fans from all around the world know that Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. And that may be why this is one of the most popular romantic castles to visit for empty nesters. After all, you can spend your visit reminiscing about your trips to Disney with the kids. All while making memories with just the two of you during this vacation.

Neuschwanstein Castle was constructed by King Ludwig II in Bavaria. It is known for its dreamy towers, breathtaking views of the Alps, and a romantic setting.

During your visit, you should spend time in the opulent Throne Room and the Singer’s Hall. Don’t forget about appreciating the sweeping views from Marienbrücke, which is Queen Mary’s Bridge.

To add to the romantic ambiance of your visit, consider taking a horse-drawn carriage ride up to the castle. Then hike to Alpsee Lake for a romantic picnic.

Or you can head over to the small town of Füssen to eat at one of the charming cafes before shopping in the boutiques.

Check out the reasons why you should embrace travel as empty nesters. 

Edinburgh Castle in Scotland

An empty nesters vacation in Scotland must include a stop at Edinburgh Castle. You will find this castle perched atop Castle Rock. The castle is packed with history, including medieval touches.

The three things you should take the time to see at Edinburgh Castle include:

• The Crown Jewels of Scotland
• The One O’Clock Gun
• The stunning Great Hall with all its medieval architecture

After your visit to Edinburgh Castle, I recommend walking along the Royal Mile. This mile-long street will take you to Holyrood Castle. While Holyrood Castle isn’t one of the most romantic castles to visit, it offers more history of Scotland for you to learn.

While wandering along the Royal Mile, stop at a traditional Scottish pub for a whiskey-tasting experience. Or choose the opposite of romance by taking a ghost tour of Edinburgh’s underground vaults.

Château de Chillon on Switzerland

Château de Chillon is located on the shores of Lake Geneva. This is one of the most romantic castles in the world to visit during an empty nester vacation. Especially since you can see the Alps out in the distance, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

When you are not admiring the lake and mountain views, check out the castle’s chapel and the gothic underground vaults.

Other incredible things to do while at Château de Chillon is enjoying a lakeside picnic and taking a boat cruise on Lake Geneva. You may also want to wander along the promenades in the charming town of Montreux.

Prague Castle in Czech Republic – An Ancient Romantic Castle to Visit

Prague Castle is one of the largest ancient castles in the world. The architecture in this castle is a mix of Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque.

The castle contains hidden courtyards, as well as mystical legends. Add in the stunning sunset views over the Vltava River and you have an enchanting destination for your empty nester vacation.

Three things to see while visiting Prague Castle include:

• Vitus Cathedral
• Golden Lane
• The Royal Gardens

If you want to truly experience the best sunset in the Czech Republic, I recommend taking an evening dinner cruise on Lake Vltava. This will ensure you don’t miss a moment of any of the magic in the sky.

Prague Castle is always crowded. Therefore, it will be best to have me arrange for a private tour during your vacation. A private tour will ensure you avoid the crowds and won’t miss any of the important details within the castle.

Check out these amazing destinations for empty nester vacations. 

Castell Coch in Wales

If you have been wanting to visit Wales, Castell Coch should be near the top of your list of romantic castles to visit. This 19^th century Gothic revival castle may be small. However, romance can be found in every corner.

Known as the Red Castle, Castell Coch is located in the woodlands outside Cardiff. The inside is decorated with hand-painted murals. Medieval romance was kept in mind while creating the ornate bedroom suites. And the best views of the area can be seen from the circular towers.

Start your visit with a leisurely forest walk around the castle. Then, after a tour of the inside, head to a nearby historic manor for afternoon tea.

Of course, you can’t skip past a stop in the charming town of Cardiff. The modern culture mixes well with all the historical features.

Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland

It shouldn’t be surprising that many of the most romantic castles to visit are in Europe. And many of those can be found in Scotland, Ireland, and Germany.

If you plan on vacationing in Scotland, and want to see more than one castle, let me recommend Eilean Donan Castle. This is one of the most iconic castles in the country. And its location on a tiny island where three lochs meet creates the perfect romantic atmosphere.

In fact, you and your partner will feel as if you stepped onto a romantic movie set when you arrive at this beautiful castle. The interior contains Scottish relics and artifacts. And the stone bridges and turrets create a picture-perfect medieval atmosphere.

Plus, the lake views change dramatically with the weather.

A unique adventure while visiting this romantic castle is taking a boat tour of the surrounding lochs. You will learn about the history of the area, while enjoying the gorgeous scenic views.

The Isle of Skye is only a short drive away. I highly recommend visiting there if time allows.

Blarney Castle in Ireland

A visit to Blarney Castle in Ireland will have you experiencing enchanting gardens and myths. And yet, despite feeling as if you stepped back in time, you will feel right at home.

You will tour the castle as you wait in line to kiss the Blarney Stone. Yes, I know kissing the Blarney Stone is cliché. And yes, I know it may not be what you want to do. However, it is worth the time you spend while you check this item off your travel list.

The Wishing Steps, castle dungeons, and other rooms of the castle will all be waiting for you at Blarney Castle. And when it is your turn, a guide will help you lower yourself backwards to kiss the infamous stone. Stop and look at your pictures before you leave, because I guarantee you will purchase at least one of them to put in your memory book.

After kissing the Blarney Stone, wander through the Poison Garden and the rest of the castle grounds. Then venture across the streets to do a little shopping at Blarney’s Woollen Mills. You will find that you can spend hours exploring the different floors filled with clothing, jewelry, home goods, and more.

Travel tips for empty nesters on vacation. 

Himeji Castle in Japan

Have you always wanted to vacation in Japan? Well, Japan has a few romantic castles to visit. So, you can easily check this country off your travel bucket list during your empty nester years.

Himeji Castle is one of Japan’s well-preserved samurai-era castles. The inside is filled with intricate wood. Outside, you will discover white walled towers. Surrounding the castle are cherry blossom trees. These trees bloom during the spring, making it the best time to visit this romantic castle.

A couple things to do while visiting Himeji Castle in Japan include:

• Strolling through the peaceful Koko-en Garden
• Attending a traditional tea ceremony
• Visiting nearby Mount Shosha

I can arrange for you to do many other activities while on your empty nester vacation in Japan. We can discuss the possibilities while I am planning your trip.

Predjama Castle in Slovenia

Predjama Castle is a mysterious castle in Slovenia. This romantic castle was built into the side of a dramatic cliff. This makes it a must-visit attraction.

Inside this castle, you will find medieval chambers, hidden tunnels, and breathtaking cave views.

I recommend exploring the Postojna Cave system during your visit to this romantic castle. Then visit the charming town of Ljubljana before enjoying a romantic dinner in a nearby vineyard.

Trakai Island Castle in Lithuania – A Unique Romantic Castle to Visit

Trakai Island Castle on an island surrounded by Lake Galvé. This is one of the most unique castles in Europe. Plus, its location in a fairy tale destination creates memorable moments for empty nesters who are visiting.

During your visit to Trakai Island Castle, you must take the time to see:

• Red-brick Gothic architecture
• Medieval wooden bridges
• Historical exhibits showcasing Lithuanian and medieval history

One of the best things to do at this castle is rent a paddle boat to see the castle from the water. Or I can arrange for a sunset cruise, so you can see the castle under the fading light of day.

I also recommend walking the forest trails around the lake. Those trails are perfect for those quiet moments you want to experience together during your empty nester vacation.

These are some of the most romantic castles to visit in enchanting destinations for your next empty nester vacation. There are so many others though and I can personalize an itinerary to include any of them in a destination of your choice.

So, are you ready to visit at least one of these romantic castles during your next empty nester vacation?

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized planning session with me. Clicking this link will take you directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

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