A castle as a party room

Start looking for a castle as a venue well in advance: popular castles are often booked months, or even more than a year, in advance.

Think carefully about the atmosphere you want to create at your wedding or event and what type of castle would suit it. Do you want a romantic, classic or, conversely, a modern feel? Choose a castle that matches the ambience you have in mind, so that your day lives up to your expectations.

Set a clear budget for your wedding or celebration before you visit the castle. Bear in mind that some castles offer their own catering and additional services, which may affect the total cost. Make clear arrangements in advance about what is included in the hire price.

Think about the number of guests you wish to invite: some castles only offer the historic rooms, whilst others also make use of the garden or grounds for larger gatherings.

Think in advance about the questions you want to ask during your visit to the castle. In our article featuring 35 practical questions, we’ve listed the most important ones for you.

Choose a castle based on the atmosphere you have in mind, from a romantic, classic castle to a more modern venue. Also consider the number of guests and your budget: some castles offer their own catering and additional services that affect the total cost. During your visit, ask about the possibilities for the garden, the interior and the technical facilities, so that you can make an informed choice about the castle that best suits your celebration.

As well as a castle, another historic venue, such as a country house or other heritage property, offers a similarly timeless atmosphere. Are you particularly drawn to an industrial, authentic character? Then a brewery or industrial function room might be a better fit. For a rural setting, you’re best off looking at a barn or farmhouse.

Renting a castle usually costs between 750 and 7,300 euros, excluding food and drink. If you opt for an exclusive or multi-day package with the entire estate, including the garden, the cost can rise to around 35,000 euros, excluding food and drink. Each castle sets its own rental terms: make sure to check exactly which services and spaces are included. Want to know more about the total cost of a wedding? Find out in this article.

A castle booking usually includes the historic rooms with basic furnishings, and sometimes access to the garden or park for the pre-dinner drinks. This varies greatly from castle to castle: always check exactly what is provided, and what you’ll need to arrange yourself, such as decorations or lighting and sound.

Yes, many castles offer the option of holding the ceremony or pre-dinner drinks in the castle garden or park, with the castle façade as a backdrop. Check this with your chosen castle, and enquire straight away about an alternative in case of inclement weather.