From towering fortresses perched on hilltops to extravagant castles nestled in rolling vineyards, there is no shortage of castles in Tuscany. Serving as evidence of Italy’s fascinating history and culture, you can visit many of these amazing destinations.
Of the many types of castles, the Tuscan region has some that are perfect for visiting and wine tasting. Others offer opportunities for amazing accommodation during your stay, serving as castle hotels. No matter which one you visit, the castles in Tuscany, Italy are fantastic retreats from crowds and busy cities.
But before you try to pick which one you want to visit, there are some things you should know. Get ready to be transported to a world of rich culture and enduring beauty as we jump into the details of the best castles in Tuscany.
1. Castello di Brolio
Located in the heart of Tuscany, Castello di Brolio is a magnificent castle that has stood tall since the 11th century. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the castle is a perfect example of Tuscan architecture with its stone walls and crenelated towers.
Visitors can explore the castles, historic rooms, admire the beautiful frescoes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Wine lovers will also appreciate the castle’s vineyards, and can taste some of the finest Chianti wines produced on-site with a wine tour.
2. Castello di Poppi dei Conti Guidi
Castello di Poppi dei Conti Guidi is a beautiful castle located in the town of Poppi. This structure was owned by the prestigious Guidi family, who ruled over the area for centuries.
The castle features a unique blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, and has been beautifully preserved throughout its history.
Visitors can tour the castle’s impressive interior filled with archways, dungeons, and stone stairways. Castello di Poppi dei Conti Guidi also features the Biblioteca Rilliana, a wonderful library that houses 25,000 volumes of ancient texts.
3. Malaspina Castle
This castle is an impressive structure that stands proudly on the edge of Tuscany, near the Mediterranean and the Ligurian region.
Although you can stay overnight here, Malaspina Castle is great for a visit with a guided tour. Visitors will meander through the grand entrance hall, the throne room, the central hall, and the dining room. You’ll also check out the 18th-century kitchen, exquisite 17th-century ceramics, and the so-called Ghost Room.
What makes Malaspina Castle particularly intriguing is that it housed the iconic writer and poet, Dante Alighieri. Visitors will explore the room in which he stayed after it was converted from a chapel.
4. Castle of Sammezzano
The castle of Sammezzano is yet another extraordinary architectural masterpiece situated in the region.
Built in the 19th century, it’s a perfect example of the Moorish Revival style, which is characterized by ornate decoration and intricate details. The castle’s interior is a feast for the eyes, with a variety of colors, patterns, and textures that create a truly breathtaking effect. The castle’s rooms are adorned with exquisite tile work, vibrant stained glass windows, and wood carvings.
There are 365 rooms in the castle of Sammezzano, one for each day of the year. Perhaps the most famous is the Peacock Room, characterized by its psychedelic patterns with every color of the rainbow. Although the castle has fallen into disrepair over the years, efforts are currently underway to restore it to its former glory.
5. Castle of Meleto
Nestled in the hills near Gaiole di Chianti, the Castle of Meleto is a 4-star hotel and wine resort that is sure to please.
The castle itself dates back to the 11th century, when it belonged to a group of monks. It was later sought after by opposing factions as it was a great stronghold of the area.
Guests can stay in rooms in the village, rooms in the castle, apartments, and villas. All of them have a romantic ambience, memorable terracotta floors, and original wooden beams inside.
The many wine-related opportunities are an important part of the Meleto experience. Check out the castle’s historic wine cellar and taste Chianti Classico on a castle tour with a wine tasting.
Tours and Experiences in Tuscan Castles
6. The Fortress of Radicofani
This fortress, located in the province of Siena, was built in the 10th century to defend against enemy attacks and control the surrounding countryside.
Today, the fortress of Radicofani serves as a fascinating museum, showcasing the history of the area and the important role that the fortress played in shaping it. Visitors can explore the various rooms and exhibits that detail the fortress’s history, as well as Etruscan archeological artifacts.
The structure also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Val d’Orcia. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Tuscany, the fortress is sure to captivate and inspire.
7. Rocca Sillana Castle
The Rocca Sillana Castle is a hidden gem located in the center of Tuscany. This stone fortress is perched on a hilltop and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The castle dates back to the year 1067 and has a rich history that visitors can explore. The castle has been restored and is now open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its various rooms and enjoy the stunning views from its ramparts.
What makes Rocca Sillana Castle truly unique is that it is relatively unknown compared to other castles in Tuscany. This means that visitors can enjoy a more intimate and authentic experience, without the crowds and tourist traps. For those looking to explore Tuscany’s rich history and cultural heritage, Rocca Sillana Castle is a great place to spend time.
Just make sure to check the opening times and whether you need to participate in a guided tour.
8. Castello di Vicopisano
The Castello di Vicopisano, fortified by Filippo Brunelleschi, is a medieval marvel located between the Arno River and Monte Pisano. This architectural masterpiece, built in 1438, boasts a complex network of defenses, including drawbridges and crenellations.
Visitors can explore the fortress, its historic center adorned with thirteen towers, and the Palazzo Pretorio, which houses archaeological finds. The area also offers natural beauty and local crafts, making Vicopisano a rich blend of history, culture, and tradition.
9. Castello di Romena
Visiting Castello di Romena, tourists step into a world suspended between the medieval era and natural beauty. Perched in the Casentino valley, this fortress’s remnants whisper tales of ancient counts and battles, offering breathtaking views across the landscape.
Its strategic significance, harmonious architecture, and the serene surroundings make it an evocative destination. Here, amidst the ruins and nature, visitors can walk through history, imagine the past, and enjoy a peaceful retreat, making it a must-visit for those exploring Tuscany’s rich heritage.
10. Castello del Piagnaro
Piagnaro Castle, nestled on a hill in Pontremoli, dates back to around the year 1000. This fortress once played a crucial role in overseeing the region’s road network, integral to the city’s defense. Its name, derived from the “piagne” sandstone covering local roofs, adds to its historical allure.
Today, the castle offers breathtaking views over valleys and mountains, housing the fascinating Stele Statue Museum. A visit here not only promises a journey through pre-history and the Middle Ages but also an unforgettable panoramic experience.
11. Castello del Girifalco
The Girifalco Fortress, with its distinctive irregular layout due to the uneven hilltop on which it sits, overlooks Cortona. Dating back to as early as the 5th or 6th century BC with Etruscan origins, the fortress has seen significant historical events, including its sale to the Florentine Republic in 1411.
Its strategic connection to the town walls created a unique pentagonal-shaped courtyard, a feature that highlights the fortress’s rich history and architectural evolution over the centuries. For more details, visit their website.
12. Castello di Porrona
For those seeking an immersive Tuscan experience, Castello di Porrona offers a unique blend of historical ambiance and contemporary luxury. Guests can explore the timeless beauty of its medieval architecture, indulge in the region’s culinary delights, and unwind amidst the picturesque landscape that defines Tuscany.
It’s an ideal retreat for travelers looking to delve into Italy’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying the comforts of modern accommodations. For more detailed information, visiting the official website or a trusted travel guide could provide a comprehensive overview.
13. Castello di Casole, in Casole d’Elsa
Castello di Casole is a magnificent castle located in Casole d’Elsa, a charming town in Tuscany. The 10th-century hotel is described as a “timeless refuge” that pairs a modern style with rural life among hills and vineyards.
Staying at the castle is an unforgettable experience, since guests can immerse themselves in the castle’s rich history while enjoying all the modern amenities and comforts of a five-star hotel.
Guests can indulge in the castle’s spa, open pool, fitness center, and 2 gourmet restaurants. Castello di Casole also offers unique dining experiences, like aperitif at the enchanted table and picnics in the castle’s gardens.
Outside the castle, visitors can check out local farms, hunt for truffles, and spot wildlife. Guests can also explore the beautiful town of Casole d’Elsa and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
For those looking for a luxurious Tuscan escape, a stay at Castello di Casole is a great option.
14. Castello Banfi – Il Borgo, in Montalcino
Castello Banfi is a stunning castle that sits in the Brunello di Montalcino wine region. The castle serves as a luxury hotel, offering guests the opportunity to stay in wonderfully furnished rooms and suites with breathtaking views.
Besides the swimming pool and spa, Castello Banfi features elegant rooms with rainfall showers and Tuscan-style decor. The castle also offers wine tastings from its wine cellar, allowing guests to learn about the wine-making process and sample some of the region’s finest wines.
A stay at Castello Banfi is a unique and unforgettable experience, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Tuscany while enjoying all the modern amenities of a five-star hotel.
15. Castello di Vicarello, in Sasso d’Ombrone
Castello di Vicarello is another one of the best castles to stay in Tuscany. The castle sits in the Maremma region, which offers a rich spread of diversity in Italy.
The upscale accommodation includes a spa, swimming pool, and garden, which features a colorful mix of citrus and olive trees, jasmine flowers, and roses. If you dine at the castle’s classy restaurant in the summer, you can eat dinner outside under the stars, while warm winter meals are served by the fireplace.
The castle also offers cooking classes, horseback riding, and wine tastings, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the Tuscan way of life.
The castle’s stunning views of the Tuscan countryside and its tranquil setting make it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Tours and Experiences in Tuscan Castles
16. Castello La Leccia, in Castellina in Chianti
Castello La Leccia is a magnificent hamlet in Chianti, a Tuscan region famous for its wine. The castle dates back to the 11th century and has been beautifully restored.
Whether you choose a classic, superior, or deluxe room, you’ll stay in a space with handmade furniture and traditional stuccoes. Like the other best castle hotels in Tuscany, the restaurant here has a relaxed atmosphere and crafts dishes with local Tuscan ingredients. For breakfast, the restaurant serves a spread of fresh fruit, homemade cakes, cheeses, salami, bread, and more.
Castello La Leccia makes its own olive oil and wines, including chianti classico, toscana rosso, and toscana bianco. It also offers tastings of these high-quality products, so guests can get the full experience out of their stay.
If you are interested in exploring the area around the castle, it’s just a short drive to the charming town of Castellina in Chianti.
17. Castello di Montalto, in Castelnuovo Berardenga
Castello di Montalto is a picturesque castle located in Castelnuovo Berardenga, a commune located in the Siena province. Having been lovingly restored, this castle has much to offer its guests.
The furnished rooms and suites are beautiful yet quirky with playful patterns. Guests can take advantage of the lively common rooms, bicycles, and the aquamarine swimming pool, which is surrounded by lush greenery. The castle also offers cooking classes and wine tastings, allowing guests to learn about the region’s rich culinary heritage and sample some of the finest wines.
Outside the castle, guests can explore the nearby town of Siena, with its historic buildings, charming streets, and buzzing restaurants. Castello di Montalto is only a 17-minute drive away from the thermal baths in Terme Toscana.
18. Castello di Potentino, in Seggiano
Castello di Potentino, perched on Mount Amiata, is a medieval castle located in southern Tuscany.
Not only does the 11th-century castle sit in a gorgeous location, but its interior is spectacular as well. The castle features elegantly furnished rooms that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Each room has a unique design, but all of them have handmade wooden furniture.
On the castle grounds, you’ll also find an elegant chapel, a pool with modern patio chairs, and an organic farm. Castello di Potentino makes use of local produce, produces its own wine from its vineyards, and offers wine tastings. Staff at the castle can also help you arrange other tours in the surrounding area.
Guests can venture to the nearby town of Seggiano. Only a 5-minute drive from the castle, Seggiano is home to divine extra virgin olive oil and pecorino cheese.
19. Castello di Spaltenna, in Gaiole in Chianti
Located in Gaiole in Chianti, Castello di Spaltenna has roots dating back to the 10th century and blends traditional Tuscan architecture with modern luxury. The luxurious rooms offer traditional Tuscan decor and panoramic views.
The exclusive resort and spa features a traditional swimming pool for hot summer days and an indoor heated one for the winter months. The outdoor pool overlooks a scenic valley, making it the perfect place to unwind and take in the vineyards, forests, and hills.
Other amenities at the castle include a Turkish spa, a tennis court, a gym, and a billiards room. Staff are more than happy to arrange excursions, like mountain biking and other outdoor adventures.
Castello di Spaltenna includes access to 3 restaurants: Il Pievano, La Terrazza, and L’Osteria. Il Pievano is a Michelin star restaurant that takes modern and creative approaches to traditional Italian food. La Terrazza, meaning “the terrace”, is an outdoor restaurant specializing in light dishes with fresh ingredients. Open during the summer season, L’osteria serves typical Tuscan dishes like bistecca fiorentina and traditional pasta.
A stay at Castello di Spaltenna is a must for those looking for a luxurious and authentic Tuscan experience, with the added bonus of being immersed in the castle’s fascinating history and culture.
FAQs about Castles in Tuscany
Here are the most frequently asked questions from travelers:
What Is the Most Famous Castle in Tuscany?
The most famous castle in Tuscany is the Castello di Brolio. It’s renowned for its historical significance in the Chianti region and its contribution to the area’s winemaking tradition.
Why Are there so many Castles in Tuscany?
Tuscany has many castles due to its historical role as a wealthy and strategic region during the Middle Ages. The castles served as fortifications against invasions and as symbols of power for local rulers and wealthy families.
What Is the Colorful Castle in Tuscany?
The Sammezzano Castle is known as the colorful castle in Tuscany. Famous for its eclectic Moorish Revival architecture, it features vibrant colors and intricate patterns, making it a unique architectural gem in the region.
Conclusion
Tuscany’s castles, from the iconic Castello di Brolio to the vibrant Castello di Sammezzano, embody the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Each fortress tells a unique story of medieval life, strategic battles, and artistic evolution, offering visitors a glimpse into Italy’s past. As symbols of power, architectural marvels, and guardians of history, these castles continue to fascinate and inspire, making Tuscany a timeless destination for those seeking to explore the beauty and legacy of the Italian countryside.
