As Halloween draws near, travelers are increasingly seeking enchanting and mysterious getaways, leading to a surge in interest in Europe's fairytale castles. A new analysis by Avis, which scrutinized social media trends, Google search volumes, TripAdvisor reviews, and airport proximity, has identified both the most secluded and the most popular magical castle destinations across the continent for the autumn season. Scotland stands out prominently in the rankings, with Eilean Donan Castle and Inveraray Castle highlighted as some of the country’s most treasured, yet lesser-known, secrets.

Topping the list of secluded magical European destinations is Romania’s dramatic Gothic-Renaissance Corvin Castle in Hunedoara. Renowned for its imposing fortifications and haunting history, the castle is steeped in legend, notably believed to have been a prison for Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired the Dracula myth. Despite attracting 18,000 monthly searches, Corvin Castle remains relatively undiscovered online, with only 15,000 Instagram hashtags. Its accessibility, being just a two-hour drive from Timisoara airport, positions it as an ideal secluded European retreat for those captivated by history and mystery.

The top 10 secluded magical European destinations include a diverse array of historical sites. Following Corvin Castle, Predjama Castle in Slovenia secures the second spot, characterized by its unique construction within a cave mouth on a vertical cliff. This 800-year-old fortress masterfully blends natural spectacle with tales of secret tunnels and intrigue. Although situated 114 kilometers from Ljubljana airport, it garners 111,000 monthly searches and 117,000 Instagram hashtags, offering a surreal and highly photogenic experience for adventurous travelers. Scotland’s Eilean Donan Castle ranks third, perched majestically where three lochs converge in the Highlands. This iconic tidal island fortress, dating back to the 13th century, has nearly 50,000 monthly searches but only 1,000 Instagram hashtags, solidifying its status as a hidden gem. Located 83 kilometers from Inverness airport, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the dramatic landscapes of Ben Nevis, Glen Coe, and Loch Ness. Visitors stepping through its ancient stone walls are transported into a Highland fairy tale, immersing themselves in centuries of history and legend. Other notable secluded castles in the top ten include Inveraray Castle in Scotland, Malbork Castle in Poland, Hohenschwangau and Heidelberg Castles in Germany, Alcázar de Segovia in Spain, Castello di Celsa in Italy, and Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg in France.

While the allure of secluded escapes continues to attract those desiring tranquility, some castles command global attention due to their vast visitor numbers and extensive online presence. The Palace of Versailles in France leads in popularity, boasting over 823,000 monthly searches and more than 2.5 million Instagram hashtags. Its opulent golden gates, expansive 2,000-acre gardens, and historic halls, once graced by Louis XIV, draw over seven million visitors annually. Conveniently located just a 30-minute drive from Paris Orly airport, Versailles firmly holds its position as Europe’s most visited magical destination. Following Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel, a tidal island off the Normandy coast, is France’s second most popular castle. It attracts 673,000 monthly searches and 729,000 Instagram hashtags, inviting visitors to explore its Gothic abbey and historic village, surrounded by the highest tides in France. An hour’s drive from Rennes airport, it offers another captivating French experience. In Scotland, Edinburgh Castle ranks third in popularity. Rising dramatically above the city skyline on Castle Rock, it draws over a million visitors each year, receiving 550,000 monthly searches and 777,000 Instagram hashtags. Just 30 minutes from Edinburgh airport, this fortress has been central to the capital’s history, inspiring legends and enchanting tales that continue to captivate visitors.