As the Halloween season approaches, travelers are turning their attention to Europe’s most magical and mysterious destinations. A recent analysis by Avis, which examined social media trends, Google search volumes, TripAdvisor reviews, and proximity to major airports, has unveiled the continent’s ultimate castle getaways. Among the discoveries, Scotland shines brightest — with Eilean Donan Castle and Inveraray Castle earning special recognition as some of Europe’s most captivating yet underrated treasures.

Topping the list of secluded European gems is Corvin Castle in Hunedoara, Romania. Known for its striking Gothic-Renaissance architecture and eerie legends, the fortress is said to have once imprisoned Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Dracula. Despite drawing around 18,000 monthly searches, Corvin Castle remains relatively obscure on social media, amassing only 15,000 Instagram hashtags. Conveniently located just two hours from Timișoara Airport, it stands as a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and Gothic architecture admirers alike.

The top 10 secluded European castles offer a rich mix of history, architecture, and atmosphere. Predjama Castle in Slovenia ranks second, a marvel dramatically built into a cave face that has guarded its secrets for more than eight centuries. Despite being 114 kilometers from Ljubljana Airport, it garners significant global interest, boasting over 111,000 monthly searches and 117,000 Instagram hashtags.

Scotland’s Eilean Donan Castle proudly claims third place. Standing at the confluence of three lochs, its breathtaking Highland setting evokes pure fantasy. Dating back to the 13th century, it welcomes around 50,000 monthly online searches yet has surprisingly few Instagram mentions, cementing its allure as a truly hidden gem. Only 83 kilometers from Inverness Airport, it provides an ideal starting point for exploring landmarks like Ben Nevis, Glen Coe, and Loch Ness. Stepping within its stone walls feels like entering a Highland fairy tale, echoing centuries of heritage and myth.

Also making the list are 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 each representing a different strand of Europe’s architectural and cultural legacy.

However, for travelers drawn to grandeur rather than seclusion, some castles continue to dominate global attention. The Palace of Versailles in France reigns supreme, attracting over 823,000 monthly searches and a staggering 2.5 million Instagram hashtags. Its golden gates, vast gardens, and Baroque splendor make it one of Europe’s most visited destinations, with more than seven million guests each year. Located just 30 minutes from Paris Orly Airport, Versailles remains a crown jewel of European heritage.

Next in line is Mont Saint-Michel, the iconic tidal island off Normandy’s coast, drawing 673,000 searches and 729,000 hashtags. Its dramatic abbey, narrow cobbled streets, and sweeping tides make it one of France’s most photogenic landmarks just an hour from Rennes Airport. Rounding out the top three, Edinburgh Castle stands proudly over Scotland’s capital, attracting over a million visitors annually. With 550,000 monthly searches and 777,000 hashtags, it continues to symbolize the spirit of Scottish history and resilience.

From the secluded shores of the Highlands to the grandeur of Versailles, Europe’s castles, both hidden and famed continue to weave tales of mystery, majesty, and timeless beauty for travelers in search of magic this autumn.