10 fairy tale castles you can stay at IRL to feel like a royal: from Beijing’s Aman Summer Palace and Rajasthan’s Six Senses Fort Barwara, to Cliveden House where Meghan Markle and Princess Diana once stayed
- Want to live out your Disney dreams for a night or two? Here’s 10 palatial properties – from The Castle Hotel, in Dalian, China, to Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
- Istanbul’s Çırağan Palace Kempinski was once home to Ottoman sultans, while Six Senses Fort Barwara belonged to Rajasthani royals – England’s Cliveden House has even welcomed Queen Elizabeth
You don’t necessarily have to be a royal to stay in a fairy tale castle.
These days, luxury hotel groups all around the world are working with heritage sites to bring storied old buildings to life – many of which boast blue-blooded history. Which means checking in, amid the same regal traditions and ornate furnishings enjoyed by generations of royals, can feel a lot like playing prince or princess.
Here are 10 dreamy castles and palaces you can book right now …
1. The Castle Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel – Dalian, China
Aptly named The Castle Hotel, this luxury escape in China’s Dalian region sits on a landmark location on Lotus Mountain, peering out over Xinghai Bay and the Yellow Sea. The palatial, Bavarian-inspired property looks like something straight out of a Disney film and combines European, Russian, Japanese and Chinese architecture and influences, while guests can choose between the regal-sounding Knight Suite or Noble Suite.
2. Cliveden House – Berkshire, England
3. Alila Fort Bishangarh – Rajasthan, India
With supreme views of the Rajasthani landscape, Alila Fort Bishangarh is a 233-year-old warrior hub steeped in history and heritage. From its traditional Jaipur Gharana architecture and interiors to its horseback riding expeditions and menus inspired by the Silk Road, every detail is made to make you feel like royalty.