Imagine this: you’re walking down an ancient stone aisle, the golden Spanish sun casting a warm glow over centuries-old castle walls. A soft Spanish guitar plays in the background as your guests sip sangria and watch you say “I do” in a place where history, romance, and a touch of magic blend together. Sounds like something from a movie, right? Well, what if I told you this could be your wedding day?
Welcome to castle weddings in Spain—where your dream of a royal wedding can become a breathtaking reality!
Why Have a Castle Wedding in Spain?
Spain is a country that lives and breathes romance. From the sun-drenched vineyards of La Rioja to the dramatic cliffs of the Costa Brava, it offers countless dreamy backdrops for weddings. But if you’re looking for something straight out of a fairy tale, a Spanish castle wedding is the ultimate choice.
Here’s why couples love saying ‘I do’ in a castle:
✨ The History & Ambiance: Castles in Spain date back centuries, with grand ballrooms, stunning courtyards, and epic views. Imagine whispering your vows where kings and queens once walked!
🍷 The Food & Wine: Spanish cuisine is next-level delicious. Think endless paella, Iberian ham, seafood feasts, and local wines so good that your guests will be talking about them for years.
💃 The Party Vibes: Spanish weddings aren’t just about the ceremony—they’re a celebration that lasts all night (literally). Flamenco dancers, live guitarists, and after-party churros with chocolate? Yes, please!
🌞 The Weather: With 300+ days of sunshine in places like Andalusia and Catalonia, your chances of a rain-free outdoor wedding are pretty high.
The Most Breathtaking Castle Wedding Venues in Spain
1. Castillo de Viñuelas (Madrid)
A stunning 17th-century castle located in a lush natural reserve just outside Madrid. Its grand halls, fairy-tale gardens, and luxurious atmosphere make it perfect for a royal wedding. Plus, it’s super convenient for guests flying into Madrid!
📍 Castillo de Viñuelas Website
2. Parador de Cardona (Barcelona)
Want that medieval Game of Thrones vibe? This 9th-century fortress on a hilltop offers dramatic stone towers, candlelit banquet halls, and breathtaking views of the Catalan countryside.
📍 Parador de Cardona Website
3. Alhambra Palace (Granada)
Not technically a castle, but this Moorish palace is one of the most stunning wedding venues in the world. The mix of Islamic architecture, lush gardens, and intricate courtyards will make you feel like royalty.
📍 Alhambra Official Site
4. Castillo de Santa Catalina (Málaga)
A Mediterranean castle with sea views? Yes, please! This 19th-century fortress overlooks the coast, offering the perfect blend of history and beachfront romance.
📍 Castillo de Santa Catalina Website
5. Castillo de Belmonte (Cuenca)
A fully restored Gothic-Mudejar castle that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. Picture yourself dancing under the stars in a medieval courtyard surrounded by candlelight and history.
📍 Castillo de Belmonte Website
How to Choose the Right Castle for Your Wedding
Not all castles are created equal! Before booking, consider:
🏰 Location: Is it close to a major city or airport? Are there hotels nearby for your guests?
👰 Guest Capacity: Some castles are intimate, while others can host 500+ guests.
🎶 Music & Party Rules: Many historic venues have sound restrictions after midnight (but hey, after-party in the wine cellar?)
🌿 Indoor vs. Outdoor Options: What’s the backup plan if it rains?
💰 Budget: Rental fees vary from €3,000 to €20,000+, depending on exclusivity and services included.
How Much Does a Castle Wedding in Spain Cost?
Dreamy, yes. But is it affordable? Here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect:
- Venue Rental: €3,000 – €20,000
- Catering: €100+ per guest (but oh, the jamón ibérico is worth it!)
- Decor & Flowers: €2,000 – €8,000
- Photography: (that’s where I come in 😉)
Good news? Spain is more affordable than many other European destinations (looking at you, France and Italy), and you get way more for your money.
The Ultimate Spanish Wedding Experience
A wedding in a Spanish castle isn’t just about the venue—it’s about embracing Spanish culture. Here’s how to take your wedding from amazing to unforgettable:
💃 Flamenco Performance: Imagine surprising your guests with a live flamenco show during dinner. Goosebumps guaranteed!
🍷 Sangria & Tapas Hour: Ditch the standard cocktail hour—let’s bring out the patatas bravas, manchego cheese, and local wines.
🌙 Midnight Churros Bar: Because no Spanish wedding is complete without late-night churros dipped in hot chocolate.
Common Questions About Castle Weddings in Spain (FAQ)
💍 Can non-residents legally marry in Spain?
Yes, but it requires paperwork. Many couples do the legal part at home and have a symbolic ceremony in Spain.
🏰 How far in advance should we book?
Popular castles book out 12-18 months in advance, especially for spring and summer weddings.
🎻 Can we bring our own vendors?
Some castles have exclusive caterers and planners, so always check the venue’s rules before booking.
☀️ What’s the best time of year for a castle wedding in Spain?
April-June and September-October offer perfect weather—not too hot, not too cold, and fewer tourists.
Capture the Magic with a Destination Wedding Photographer
A Spanish castle wedding is more than just a venue—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And that experience deserves to be captured in a way that does justice to its magic, beauty, and emotion.
As a destination wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing love stories in the most breathtaking places—Spain included! Whether it’s the golden light filtering through a castle window, a stolen kiss in a candlelit courtyard, or your first dance under the Spanish stars, I make sure every moment is timeless, emotional, and truly yours.
📸 See my wedding stories & portfolio: Your Happy Moments Blog
💍 Check out my wedding photography packages: Investment Page
📩 Let’s chat about your dream wedding! Contact Page
Let’s turn your Spanish castle wedding into a love story you’ll cherish forever. 💛
