Beautiful Castles in Tuscany to Visit or Stay In

Especially for those of us from North America, the history and architecture of Italy is a fascinating novelty. Many visitors are captivated by European and Italian castles, as it’s not something we see at home.

In this post, we’ll help you find the best castles to visit in Tuscany as well as castle accommodations you can stay in as a traveler. 

About Tuscan Castles

In Italian, the word for castle is castello. You’ll also see many destinations referred to as a palazzo, which translates to palace. Likewise, a reggia is a royal residence. 

After the fall of the Roman Empire, Italy’s many different city-states had yet to be unified into what is now the country of Italy. These regional kingdoms were often at war with each other when many of Italy’s famous castles and fortresses were built.

When visiting Tuscany, beautiful Tuscan castles and palaces can be found throughout the region. While not all castles are the magical, fairytale castles you might imagine from Disney, they’re all quite impressive.

Many castles in Tuscany have been passed down within a family and are still inhabited to this day. Other castles have become hotels, bed and breakfasts, or vacation rental accommodations.

Best Castles in Tuscany Italy to Visit

After returning to Tuscany several times, we realized there were more Tuscany castles out there than we realized! In addition to our own recommendations, we’ll also share the castles of Tuscany recommended to us by fellow travel bloggers.

Castello Gheradesca – Bolgheri Castle

Castello Gherardesca, also known as Bolgheri Castle, is located in the quaint town of Bolgheri, a medieval village on the Etruscan Coast known for its wine and olive road. This ancient castle has a rich history dating back to the 1200.

Bolgheri Castle has been under the ownership of the family of the Counts of Gherardesca since the 13th century. The family still owns the castle and much of the surrounding land to this day.

Throughout the years, the castle has undergone restoration and construction of new structures like cellars and a tower. There is even a top notch winery inside where you can schedule a tour and wine tasting.

Along with its red brick facade and high tower, the castle grounds are also noteworthy. There is a farm that extends around the castle, many of which are covered by vineyards. 

Casale Marittimo Hilltop Village Castle

Casale Marittimo is a beautiful hilltop village overlooking the Tuscan Archipelago and the coast. The area is rich in natural beauty, especially salt mines, greenery, and springs. It’s a great area for a cycling vacation.

During medieval times, the town center was a castle. While walking around the historic center, you’ll get to see architectural remnants of the original castle. These ruins, like the defensive walls, have now been absorbed by newer village structures.

Going beyond the main square and the castle walls, you can also explore the village with its picturesque alleys, staircases, and arcades. Other landmarks worth visiting are the Church of Sant’Andrea and Palazzo della Canonica.

Lari Castle – Castello dei Vicari

Lari Castle – Castello dei Vicari – is one of the hidden gems in Tuscany. It was opened to the public in 1991, and in the inner courtyard of the castle you can see 92 coats of arms, a court room, a torture chamber, and a jail that was used until 1934.

The castle has a circular form with double walls and in the center stands what remains of the old building. The first core of the castle probably dates back to the early Middle Ages, but the structure that can be seen today is from the first half of the 17th century.

Lari Castle is currently a historical museum, and is supported by multimedia elements to understand the events that took place there.

From the top of the castle, the views of Tuscany are indescribable, the scenery that surrounds Lari is very beautiful as cypresses and palaces dot the surrounding hills and valleys.

At the foot of the castle, there are several restaurants serving pasta and pizza (an interesting fact about pizza is that it has been UNESCO listed).

Photo and recommendation contributed by Laura of Travelers Universe.

Pitti Palace in Florence, Italy

Situated across the Arno River, and easily accessible from most areas in Florence, the Pitti Palace is a must on any Florence itinerary.

First built in the mid-1400s, the Renaissance palace is known for being the Grand Ducal residence of Cosimo I de’ Medici and his wife Eleanor of Toledo. Over the years, it became a symbol of the power and influence of the de Medici family in Florence and Tuscany.

Today, the Pitti Palace consists of four museums filled with Renaissance art, sculpture and artifacts – the Gallery of Modern Art, the Museum of Culture and Fashion, the Treasury of the Grand Dukes and the Palatine Gallery and Imperial Apartments. All are well worth visiting, along with the spectacular Boboli Gardens on the hill above the palace.

Photo and recommendation contributed by Roxanne de Bruyn of Faraway Worlds.

Palazzo Vecchio – Florence Castle

One of the most beautiful cities in Italy is Florence, the capital of Tuscany and home to some of the grandest palaces and historic castles in the region. One of the most famous of these castles is the Palazzo Vecchio, now Florence’s city hall, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the Renaissance city’s vibrant history.

Overlooking the Piazza della Signoria and the gallery of statues in the adjacent Loggia dei Lanzi, a replica of Michelangelo’s iconic David statue stands guard at the entrance to the Palazzo.

Dating back to the end of the 13th century, the imposing structure was built on ancient Roman ruins which can still be seen through glass panels in the lower level. Visitors can tour the museum and the other levels, and view the magnificent Renaissance art that adorns nearly every surface.

While this isn’t a castle you can overnight in, there are dozens of excellent hotels within walking distance of the castle and the Uffizi Gallery just next door.

You’ll need to purchase a ticket to tour the castle – or better yet, purchase the Firenze Card and an extensive tour is included – but you can stroll the first floor interior for free.

Photo and recommendation contributed by Lori Sorrentino of Travlinmad.com.

Poppi Castle and Library, Tuscany

In eastern Tuscany, 35 kilometers from Arezzo, Poppi Castle gives a breathtaking view of the Casentino valley and retains the atmosphere of the era.

The Guidi family constructed it between the end of the 12th century. The castle can be accessed by driving up to the top of the hill where it stands.

This magnificently renovated castle, perched high above Poppi, is unquestionably worth a visit. The castle is big enough to keep you occupied for more than an hour, yet it’s also kid-friendly.

The rooms that have been restored are first-rate, and the ceilings, frescos, artwork, and library are all magnificent. You can learn about how medieval books were produced in the library, which is impressive.

Although the steep ascent to the tower may frighten some, the vista is absolutely worth the effort.

Photo and recommendation contributed by Trijit Mallick of Dog Travel Buff.

Brolio Castle – Castello di Brolio

Sailko, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Brolio Castle in Chianti has been under the ownership of the Ricasoli family since the 12th century. It has been seized and destroyed multiple times over the centuries.

With its continuous reconstruction, the castle shows architectural features of different eras like Renaissance gardens, medieval bastions, and neo-Gothic structures. Inside the castle, you can visit the Chapel of San Jacopo and a small museum.

Visitors can tour gardens and the small museum which includes a wine tasting. But there’s also a guided tour of the wine cellars and vineyards of the estate.

Boccale Castle, Livorno, Italy

PROPOLI87, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Boccale Castle is located in Livorno along the coastal road by the Tyrrhenian Sea. The castle was a former watchtower and defensive fortification designed to protect the area from pirate attacks.

In the 19th century, it was turned into a medieval-style private residence and as such it’s not open to the public for visits.

Even though it’s one of the few Tuscany castles you can’t visit, it’s still a beautiful sight to behold, especially during sunset. The clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the changing colors of sky will be great backdrops for pictures of the castle.

Malaspina Castle of Malgrate – Castello Malaspina

Davide Papalini, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Malaspina Castle of Malgrate located in Villafranca Lunigiana overlooks the river Bagnone. This medieval castle used to be a part of the line of defense created to protect the territory.

It’s one of the most well-preserved castles in Tuscany, Italy. Since it’s open to the public, visitors can admire the characteristic round tower, and walk through the enclosure walls with battlements and the main gates that used to lead to a nearby village.

Montalto Castle – Castello di Montalto

Montalto Castle is a great option for those looking for castles to stay in Tuscany. It’s located between Siena and Florence, overlooking the Ambra river. Because of its strategic location, the Montalto Castle has undergone a lot of destruction in battles and consequent rebuilding.

Currently, the Italian castle has been restored while still preserving the charm of rural Tuscany. The surrounding land has also been cultivated and produces grains, grapes for wine and olive oil.

The beautiful setting makes it great for vacation rentals or special events. Accommodations range from five independent houses, four apartments, and a separate wing of the castle.

Vincigliata Castle near Firenze

Maxcivi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Vincigliata Castle sits atop a rocky hill on Fiesole near Florence. It was originally a medieval castle dating back to the 11th century under ownership of Florentine nobility but eventually fell to ruin.

In the mid-19th century, Englishman John Temple came upon the ruins and decided to restore it. Now, Vincigliata is known as a romantic venue for weddings, galas, and wine tastings since the castle has its own vineyard.

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Best Castle Stays in Tuscany Italy

Tuscany castles are not just for visits during the day. If you’re looking for castles in Tuscany to stay in, you actually have a variety of choices!

Fosdinovo Castle Bed & Breakfast and Cultural Center

Jwslubbock, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Fosdinovo Castle is located in a medieval village in the heart of Lunigiana. It features themed rooms with antique furnishings where you can enjoy stunning views of the Apuan Alps and the Tyrrhenian coast.

Some highlights of this property include the Renaissance lodge, hanging gardens, and a panoramic tower.

If you simply want to visit the castle, you can opt for a guided tour instead. The castle also has a museum and cultural center dedicated to contemporary art.

Check rates and availability for Fosdinovo Castle B&B >

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The Tuscan countryside is a treasure trove of beautiful castles. There’s everything from medieval castles in Florence, Italy, royal homes in quaint villages, ancient ruins and fortifications, to fully restored castles that have been turned into hotels. These hidden gems are where you can truly experience the magic of Tuscany.

You might also like:
A guide to Tuscany’s Etruscan Coast
Best Beaches in Tuscany
Etruscan Coast Hidden Gem Villages to Visit
Most Beautiful Italian Villages
Unconventional Accommodations in Italy

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