Europe's most magical fairytale escapes revealed - from Disney-like German castles to underrated Baltic gems and £22 return flights

Published: 08:45 BST, 22 July 2026 | Updated: 09:38 BST, 22 July 2026

From German castles worthy of a Disney princess to tiny French towns laden with cobbled streets and timber houses, Europe is home to many fairytale-like locations.

Whether you're on the hunt for a city break in one of the prettiest spots on the continent or are seeking an adventure further afield, choosing a holiday based on the magic you could find upon arrival is as sensible a decision as any.

And now you can get a little inspiration for your travels. In a ranking from European Best Destinations , the top fairytale spots to visit for 2026 have been revealed.

If you're looking for something out of the ordinary, take a peek at some of these magical marvels, and find out how you can get there on a budget, too.

Eltz Castle is a medieval castle nestled in the hills in Germany

Set against a backdrop of Germany's hills and the Eltz Forest, this castle has been crowned Europe's destination most reminiscent of a fairytale.

Owned by the House of Eltz, which has owned the castle since the 12th century, the castle was even used as the setting for the 1979 cult-classic film, The Ninth Configuration.

'Excellent experience, really like you're in a fairytale,' one visitor wrote on Google Reviews. 'The castle sitting next to the forest is really impressive when you see it for the first time.

'You should definitely try out the guided tour, you will get an exceptional authentic experience of the castle. It feels like you travelled back in time.'

HOW TO VISIT: A three-hour drive from the castle, Frankfurt Airport is the nearest international hub. Return flights from Stansted from £29 .

Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey on its tidal island is one of France's most spectacular attractions

The tidal island of Mont-Saint-Michel has attracted tourists from all over the world with its Gothic architecture and UNESCO status.

In fact, it's often considered one of France's best tourist attractions, and photos show why.

One visitor wrote of the attraction on Tripadvisor: 'First impression, coming off the bus, was astonishingly impressive! It gave Lord of the Rings vibes.

'It is steep, it is high up and it's totally worth it, despite my knees going jelly most of the visit... It's an exceptionally unique experience for sure!'

HOW TO VISIT: The nearest airport to Mont-Saint-Michel is Rennes Airport (RNS). Return easyJet flights from Gatwick start from £71 .

The town of Tossa de Mar is the next fairytale destination on the list

The medieval coastal town of Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava is home to gorgeous beaches, hidden coves and a 12th-century Old Town.

Highlights here include seafood galore and beaches alongside the historic centre, such as Platja Gran and Cala Es Codolar.

'Tossa de Mar offers sea and mountain, a unique landscape with a history which inspires art and culture, traditions, gastronomy and Mediterranean hospitality,' says the official tourism office.

HOW TO VISIT: Return flights from Manchester to Girona-Costa Brava Airport start from £70 with Ryanair.

The Dark Hedges tree tunnel in Northern Ireland lures in intrigued tourists

The Dark Hedges are a collection of beech trees that were planted around 1775 on both sides of a long avenue near Gracehill House, creating an eerie and fairytale-like framing effect.

Located in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, the location was used for filming the popular TV show Game of Thrones.

'​This place is a total dream for Game of Thrones fans,' one visitor said, adding: 'The trees are massive and twisted, and because the road is closed to cars and bikes, you can really soak in the atmosphere without traffic ruining the vibe.'

HOW TO VISIT: Return flights from Manchester to Belfast from £41 with Ryanair .

Next up is Baltic gem Riga, with its famous House of the Blackheads

Latvia, one of Europe's least populous countries, is more often associated with cheap stag dos and budget beer than glamorous getaways, but that's a mistake.

With its cobbled streets and historic buildings, Riga is widely considered one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

With an art and culture scene to rival many other capitals (it has previously been dubbed the 'Paris of the North'), it is well worth the journey, especially with flights available from around £50 each way.

Comfortable temperatures and great attractions, such as the House of the Blackheads, Riga Art Nouveau Centre and the central market, make for a great weekend away, too.

HOW TO VISIT: Return flights from London to Riga from £42 with Ryanair.

Another German destination joining the list is Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria

Germany's southern region of Bavaria is another top fairytale destination for travellers.

Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria is thought to have inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle, and is a standout spot in the area.

One holidaymaker commented: 'It is the best castle in the world for a reason. The hike there builds anticipation. Entering the courtyard and the castle itself is the ultimate reward. The details inside are astonishing, unreal even.'

HOW TO VISIT: Return flights from Stansted to Memmingen Allgäu Airport from £32 with Ryanair .

The chocolate box town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is well worth a visit

If exploring historic villages is your thing, one of Germany's best-known medieval towns should top your list: Rothenburg ob der Tauber.