15+ Incredible Medieval Castles in Tuscany to Visit in 2024

Finding the right places to visit can be overwhelming. We know firsthand how stressful it can be to plan the perfect trip with the perfect place – that wave of anxiety washing over you is all too familiar! 

With so many medieval castles in Tuscany scattered across the beautiful Tuscan landscape, we spent countless hours researching and visiting these magnificent structures to bring you a complete list of the best castles in Tuscany that you must visit! From luxurious castle hotels, to mesmerizing and fascinating historical sites, this guide has got you all covered!

 

Castello di Brolio

Located in the heart of Chianti and on top of a hill, Castello di Brolio is quite splendid. The documented beautiful castle said to have belonged to the family has been in the possession of the family for over eight hundred years. Of special interest in this case was the long history of the castle as well as the exterior views of the regions that grew grapes for production of wine.

 

 

You get to visit the majestic castle and the surroundings and listen to the story of Iron Baron Bettino Ricasoli who is known to have made a Chianti wine blend that is common today. If you would like to savor the Chianti Classico wine which has been awarded many accolades, advance to the wine cellar for the wine tasting.

Insider tip: Arrange a visit during the period when the vineyards are occupied, that is from September to October, during the harvesting period.

How to get there: The castle is located about 20 km northeast of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena to Gaiole in Chianti, then a short taxi ride to the castle.

 

Poppi Castle

Nestled in the verdant Casentino Valley, Poppi Castle stands as a proud sentinel, guarding centuries of Tuscan history within its sturdy walls.

Arnolfo Di Cambio, the architect, had to make Palazzo Vecchio in Florence bigger in the late 1200s. He’s the guy who originally designed it. Then in 1440, Florence (it was a republic back then) took over this castle and turned it into a place for their governor to live. They called the governor the “Vicario.”

 

 

As we approached this imposing structure, it was easy to see why it’s considered one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Tuscany. Its crenelated tower and imposing facade transport you back to a time of knights and nobles.

Built in the 13th century, Poppi Castle was once the seat of the powerful Guidi Counts. As we climbed the imposing stone staircase, we felt like we were stepping back in time, ready to attend a medieval banquet or witness a council of war.

The castle’s interior is a treasure trove of long history and art. The Rilliana Library, housed within the majestic castle walls, is a book lover’s paradise. It contains over 25,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts and incunabula. We were particularly fascinated by the works of Dante Alighieri – legend has it that the famous poet stayed here during his exile from Florence.

For the best views of the surrounding Casentino countryside, climb to the top of the tower. Trust us, it’s worth the effort! The panorama of rolling hills, dotted with olive groves and medieval villages, is simply breathtaking. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Apennine Mountains.

How to get there: Poppi is about 50 km east of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Poppi.

 

Castello di Verrazzano

Calling all history buffs and wine enthusiasts! Castello di Verrazzano, located in the heart of Greve in Chianti, offers the perfect blend of both. This 13th-century castle was once home to Giovanni da Verrazzano, the explorer who discovered New York Harbor. As we walked through the castle gates, we couldn’t help but feel a connection to this Tuscan adventurer who set sail from these very grounds.

 

 

Perched on a hilltop surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Castello di Verrazzano boasts a history that stretches back to Etruscan times. The current structure, with its imposing tower and sturdy walls, dates back to the 12th century. As we explored the castle grounds, we were struck by the seamless blend of medieval architecture and Renaissance additions.

One of the highlights of our visit was exploring the ancient wine cellars. Carved into the rock beneath the castle, these cellars have been producing wine for over a thousand years. The air is thick with the scent of aging wine and the walls are lined with massive oak barrels. We learned about the castle’s winemaking traditions dating back to 1150 – talk about a long-standing legacy!

How to get there: The castle is about 30 km south of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Greve in Chianti.

Also Read: Hidden Gems in Tuscany for your Italy Road Trip

 

Castello Vicchiomaggio

You will be amazed at the renaissance looks of Castello Vicchiomaggio; situated on the top of the hill with the glimpse of Greve valley.

 

 

In the 16th century, they decided to fancy up this castle. They turned it into a villa and put a garden on it. The Medici family was running things then, and they renamed it Vicchio Maggio. This name had something to do with these “maggiolate of Calendimaggio” celebrations they used to have.

We had the feeling that we had entered the scene of an old masterpiece as the red terracotta walls of the castle came into focus thus impressing the group. The castle grounds are a joy to explore, with beautifully manicured Italian gardens, a refreshing swimming pool, and even a tennis court.

Did you know that this place was home for the greatest inventor Leonardo da Vinci, painting the Mona Lisa here?

Presently the estate functions as a boutique hotel and a wine producing company enabling guests to experience the true Italian flavor. It is advised that one should stay in the castle in order to understand all of its functions. It is something quite unique indeed to open one’s eyes each morning and look out across the orderliness of the olive trees and vines and, in the distance, the towers of Florence.

How to get there: The castle is about 25 km south of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Greve in Chianti.

 

Castello Banfi

A wine lover’s paradise, Castello Banfi is tucked away amid Montalcino’s undulating hills. This magnificent luxury hotel has been built from a 13th-century castle without sacrificing any of its medieval natural beauty. We knew we were in for something extraordinary as we approached the castle’s imposing silhouette against the Tuscan hills as we drove up the cypress-lined driveway.

 

 

Castello Banfi is a 7,100-acre wine estate that includes woodlands, olive orchards, and vineyards. It is more than just a hotel. The estate was acquired by the Mariani family in 1978, and they have skilfully combined historic center customs with contemporary opulence. We were astounded by how skilfully they combined the ancient architecture of the castle with cutting-edge winemaking equipment.

For those looking to extend their stay, the castle offers luxurious accommodations in the restored farmhouses surrounding the main building. We were blown away by the attention to detail in our suite – from the handcrafted antique furniture to the sweeping views of the vineyards from our private terrace.

How to get there: Castello Banfi is about 45 km south of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena to Montalcino.

 

Castello di Gabbiano

A genuine hidden gem in the Chianti region, Castello di Gabbiano is frequently missed by tourists who swarm to a more strategic location. We knew we had found something unique as we made our way up the drive bordered with cypress trees and saw the castle from the 12th century peeking out of the misty olive gardens.

 

 

This castle has a long and illustrious history that begins with the influential Bardi family of Florence. It has served as a fortification, a Renaissance mansion, and a boutique hotel and world-class winery over the ages. The castle’s immaculately kept walls of honey-colored stone astonished us right away. Its preservation defies the passage of time.

Insider tip: Time your visit for one of the castle’s special events. Throughout the year, they host everything from open-air cinema nights to jazz concerts in the courtyard. It’s a magical way to experience the castle after dark.

Before you leave, be sure to stop by the castle’s shop. In addition to their wines, they offer a range of local products including their own extra virgin olive oil, honey, and handmade pasta. It’s the perfect way to bring a taste of Castello di Gabbiano home with you.

How to get there: The castle is about 30 km south of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to San Casciano in Val di Pesa.

 

Castello di Meleto

Even the most seasoned castle aficionado will be impressed with Castello di Meleto, a 13th-century fortification tucked away in Gaiole in Chianti. We had the impression that we had entered a medieval fairy tale as we drew near the castle, with its commanding round towers and high walls towering from the surrounding vineyards.

 

 

Meleto, which was first constructed as a military stronghold by the wealthy Ricasoli family, has withstood centuries of conflict and transformation. Presently, it is a stunningly conserved illustration of Tuscan military architecture, providing guests with an unparalleled insight into the region’s stormy history.

Of course, wine is important at Castello di Meleto because it is located in the heart of Chianti. The guided tour includes a visit to the castle’s wine cellars, where you can learn about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of Chianti Classico area wines.

How to get there: The castle is about 15 km northeast of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena to Gaiole in Chianti.

 

Castello di Spaltenna

If you are planning to have a royal vacation then you would love to stay at Castello di Spaltenna in Gaiole in Chianti – perfect holiday homes! The above is a historical establishment that was originally built in the 11th Century and was converted into a 5 star Hotel. Earlier the place was a fort to protect the Chianti area! It gives the history of the surrounding area and at the same time you get to experience modern amenities.

 

 

We saw that it was surrounded with cypress trees and vineyards when we were in the car getting close to this castle of Tuscany. The towering walls and the stone of this castle revealed to us the meaning of the word ‘royalty’.

How to get there: The castle is about 20 km northeast of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena to Gaiole in Chianti.  

 

Castello di Volpaia

Situated at the top of the hill in Chianti, Castello di Volpaia is like a medieval village! As we entered, we saw clusters of stone buildings throughout! It felt like we were traveling back to the 11th century.

Volpaia is a unique Tuscany castle and it’s an entire fortified hamlet. It was founded in the 11th century as a Florentine military outpost. The village somehow survived centuries largely intact. As we walked through, we were amazed by the authentic medieval atmosphere – not a single souvenir shop or tourist trap in sight!

 

 

At the heart of Tuscany village is a central square that was dominated by the 12th century church of Saint’Euphrosyne.

But, what truly sets this apart is the living – working village. Most of the medieval buildings have been re-built to a modern winery. And what’s surprising is that the stainless steel wine tanks are hidden behind ancient stone walls. Plus, the wine cellar takes over a series of underground tunnels that connect to various buildings in the village!

How to get there: The castle is about 35 km southeast of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Radda in Chianti.

 

Castello di Ama

Located in the tiny hamlet of Ama, this 18th-century villa might not look like a traditional castle, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Castello di Ama is renowned for its world-class wines and impressive collection of contemporary art, offering a unique blend of oenological and artistic experiences.

 

 

As we approached the estate, surrounded by meticulously tended vineyards, we were struck by the elegant simplicity of the main villa. But don’t let the understated exterior fool you – Castello di Ama is full of surprises.

For those looking to extend their visit, Castello di Ama offers luxurious accommodations in restored farmhouses on the estate. Imagine waking up to views of sun-drenched vineyards and starting your day with a walk among the outdoor art installations – it’s a truly unique Tuscan experience.

Insider tip: If you’re an art enthusiast, try to time your visit with one of Castello di Ama’s special exhibitions or events. Throughout the year, they host contemporary art shows and performances that attract culture lovers from around the world. 

How to get there: The castle is about 45 km southeast of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Gaiole in Chianti.

 

Castello di Porciano

Perched high above the Casentino Valley, Castello di Porciano offers a glimpse into medieval life with a literary twist. This 11th-century fortress is said to have hosted Dante Alighieri during his exile from Florence, adding a layer of poetic intrigue to its already rich history.

 

 

As we approached the castle, its imposing tower dominating the skyline, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. The steep climb to the entrance is well worth the effort – the views of the surrounding valley are simply breathtaking.

The castle’s current owners have lovingly restored the structure, creating a fascinating museum that brings the medieval period to life. We were particularly impressed by the collection of arms and armor, giving us a tangible sense of what life was like for the soldiers who once defended these walls.

The castle’s olive grove is another highlight. Some of the trees are over 500 years old, predating even the Renaissance. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of the castle’s own olive oil – it’s liquid gold!

How to get there: The castle is about 50 km east of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Stia.

 

Castello di Vincigliata

Just a short drive from Florence, Castello di Vincigliata is a 19th-century reimagining of a medieval fortress. As we approached the castle, its romantic towers and crenelated walls emerging from a sea of cypress trees, we felt like we had stumbled into a Pre-Raphaelite painting.

The castle’s history is as fascinating as its architecture. Originally built in the 14th century, it fell into ruin over the centuries. In the 1850s, it was purchased by an eccentric English lord, John Temple Leader, who set about transforming it into his vision of the perfect medieval castle.

 

 

While you can’t tour the castle’s interior, the large garden is open to visitors and is well worth exploring. We spent a delightful afternoon wandering through the romantic landscaped grounds, discovering hidden grottoes, ancient fountains, and spectacular viewpoints. It’s a perfect place for castle dates!

The castle’s position, high in the hills above Florence, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. We recommend packing a picnic and spending some time on the terrace, soaking in the views of Brunelleschi’s dome and the Tuscan countryside beyond.

How to get there: The castle is about 8 km east of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Fiesole.

 

Castello di Monteriggioni

Step into a medieval postcard at Castello di Monteriggioni. This perfectly preserved walled town sits atop a hill, just as it has since the 13th century. As we approached the circular city walls, punctuated by 14 towers, we felt like we were approaching a movie set – it’s almost too picturesque to be real.

 

 

Monteriggioni was built by the Sienese in 1214 as a front line in their wars against Florence. Today, it stands as one of the best examples of medieval military architecture in all of Italy. As we walked along the ancient ramparts, we felt like we were guarding against Florentine invaders, just as soldiers did 800 years ago.

Inside the town walls we have narrow cobblestone streets leading to a central piazza dominated by the Romanesque church of Santa Maria Assunta. We loved exploring the little shops and cafes, many of which are housed in buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.

Don’t miss the small but fascinating Monteriggioni in the Armi museum, which showcases medieval and Renaissance weapons and armor. We even had the chance to try on some replica armor – it’s heavier than it looks!

How to get there: Monteriggioni is about 15 km northwest of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena.

 

Castello di Fosdinovo

Fosdinovo Castle is a historical and legendary place with a beautiful area around. The steep road to the castle, the mountains in the background give a perfect start to a special day.

 

 

This castle was built in the 12th century and is situated in the Apuan Alps. It’s infamous for being a crib of the ghost of a sad poor lady – Bianca Maria Aloisia, a noblewoman. By tradition, she is said to have been entombed alive in the said castle for the crime of having fallen in love with a peasant. Whether or not one believes in ghosts, the existence of a spirit makes the interiors featured in the context of the castle even more interesting.

The castle native in its interesting history and glazing frescoes impressed us. The tour guides you through large elegant state rooms, a pretty chapel, and, for the slightly more macabre, the ‘torture chamber’! Specifically, the guide’s stories made me feel the glimpses of medieval life: the feasts and jousts, imprisonments and murders that took place in the castle.

How to get there: The castle is about 120 km northwest of Florence. You can drive or take a train to Sarzana, then a bus to Fosdinovo.

 

Castello di Sammezzano

Last but certainly not least, we have the utterly unique Castello di Sammezzano. This 17th-century palace might be the most colorful castle you’ll ever see. Inspired by Moorish architecture, its vibrant bedrooms, living rooms, and dining room are a feast for the eyes and a testament to the power of human creativity.

 

 

Originally built in the 17th century, the castle was transformed in the 19th century by Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes d’Aragona, who spent 40 years creating a mind-boggling Moorish fantasy. Each room is a riot of color and pattern, from the peacock-themed Peacock Room to the white-and-gold splendor of the White Room.

While the castle is currently closed for restoration, you can still admire its whimsical exterior and explore the surrounding park. The grounds themselves are worth the visit, with centuries-old trees and picturesque paths perfect for a leisurely stroll.

We recommend keeping an eye on their website for updates on guided tours. When they do occur, they’re extremely popular and book up fast. Having the chance to step inside this kaleidoscopic wonderland is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How to get there: The castle is about 30 km southeast of Florence. You can drive or take a train to Rignano sull’Arno.

 

Castello Di Vicarello

Castello Di Vicarello is a stunning 12th-century castle that’s been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel. We were absolutely blown away by the perfect blend of medieval architecture and modern comforts. 

 

 

One of the highlights of our visit was participating in their renowned cooking classes. Learning to make traditional Tuscan dishes while surrounded by the castle’s ancient stone walls was an experience we’ll never forget. And don’t even get us started on the views of the Val d’Orcia – simply breathtaking!

How to get there: The castle is about 150 km south of Florence. You can drive or take a train to Grosseto, then a taxi to the castle. 

 

Torre Grossa

While not a castle in the traditional sense, we couldn’t resist including the Torre Grossa in our list. As the tallest tower in San Gimignano, it offers an unparalleled view of the Tuscan countryside. Climbing to the top was quite a workout, but oh boy, was it worth it!

 

 

From the top, we could see the entire town of San Gimignano spread out below us, with its other famous towers creating a medieval skyline unlike anything else in the world. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Apennine Mountains!

How to get there: San Gimignano is about 60 km southwest of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence.

 

Castello Di Montegufoni

Castello Di Montegufoni is a 12th-century castle that’s been beautifully restored and converted into unique vacation apartments. We loved the idea of actually living in a castle, even if just for a few days! The castle apartments blend medieval charm with modern amenities, making for a truly unforgettable stay.

 

 

One of the highlights of our visit was exploring the castle’s extensive grounds, which include beautiful Italian gardens and a large swimming pool. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Chianti region while enjoying a slice of medieval life.

How to get there: The castle is about 20 km southwest of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Montespertoli.

 

Castello La Leccia

Castello La Leccia offers a perfect blend of history and luxury. This 12th-century castle has been lovingly restored into a charming boutique hotel. We were impressed by how seamlessly they’ve integrated modern comforts into the historic structure.

 

 

The castle’s location offers stunning 360-degree views of the Chianti countryside. We spent hours just sitting on the terrace, sipping local wine, and soaking in the breathtaking panorama. It’s an ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.

How to get there: The castle is about 35 km south of Florence. You can drive or take a bus from Florence to Castellina in Chianti. 

 

Castello Di Montalto

Castello Di Montalto, located in the heart of the Crete Senesi area, is a medieval castle that offers a unique living experience. We were thrilled to discover their dependance apartments, which allow for a longer, more immersive stay in this historic setting.

 

 

The castle’s strategic location made it perfect for exploring southern Tuscany. We used it as a base to visit Siena, Montalcino, and the Val d’Orcia. But honestly, some of our favorite moments were spent right at the castle, wandering through its ancient halls and imagining the centuries of history that had unfolded within its walls.

How to get there: The castle is about 25 km southeast of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena to Castelnuovo Berardenga.

 

Castel Monastero

Once a medieval village and monastery, Castel Monastero has been transformed into a luxurious resort that perfectly blends history with modern comforts. We were impressed by how they’ve maintained the castle’s original structure while creating a world-class spa and wellness center.

 

 

The highlight of our visit was definitely the gourmet restaurants. Enjoying innovative Tuscan cuisine in a candlelit medieval courtyard was an experience we’ll never forget. And let’s not forget the wine cellar – it’s a true testament to the region’s viticultural heritage.

How to get there: The resort is about 20 km northeast of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena to Castelnuovo Berardenga.

 

Castelnuovo Berardenga

While not a single castle, the town of Castelnuovo Berardenga is home to several castles and fortified structures that make it a must-visit for castle enthusiasts. We loved exploring the narrow streets and discovering hidden gems around every corner.

 

 

One of our favorites was the Castello di Montepo, a beautiful 14th-century fortress surrounded by vineyards. The town’s strategic location at the southern edge of the Chianti region also makes it a perfect base for wine tasting adventures.

How to get there: Castelnuovo Berardenga is about 20 km east of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena.

 

Castello Di Velona Resort

Perched on a hill overlooking the Val d’Orcia, Castello Di Velona is a 10th-century fortress turned luxury thermal resort. We were absolutely blown away by the seamless blend of medieval architecture and modern luxury. The thermal pools, with their panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, were a particular highlight.

 

 

The castle’s location also makes it perfect for exploring the famous wine regions of Montalcino and Montepulciano. After a day of wine tasting, returning to the castle for a spa treatment felt like pure indulgence.

How to get there: The resort is about 45 km southeast of Siena. You can drive or take a bus from Siena to Montalcino.

 

Bolgheri Castle

The Bolgheri Castle, with its distinctive red brick façade, stands as the gateway to the famous Viale dei Cipressi, a 5km avenue lined with over 2,500 cypress trees. While the castle itself is a private residence, the surrounding medieval village of Bolgheri is a joy to explore.

 

 

We spent a delightful afternoon wandering through the village’s narrow streets, sampling local wines, and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The area is famous for its “Super Tuscan” wines, so be sure to indulge in a tasting or two!

How to get there: Bolgheri is about 100 km southwest of Florence. You can drive or take a train to Donoratico, then a short taxi ride to Bolgheri.

 

Castello Malaspina Di Fosdinovo

Castello Malaspina Di Fosdinovo offers breathtaking views of the Apuan Alps and the Magra Valley. This impressive fortress has been standing guard over the area since the 12th century.

 

 

We were fascinated by the castle’s rich history and the legends surrounding it. The guided tour took us through grand halls, a charming chapel, and even a spooky dungeon. The highlight was hearing about the castle’s most famous guest, Dante Alighieri, who is said to have stayed here during his exile.

How to get there: The castle is about 150 km northwest of Florence. You can drive or take a train to Sarzana, then a bus to Fosdinovo.

 

Castello Di Gargonza

Hidden away in a forest between Arezzo and Siena, Castello Di Gargonza is a perfectly preserved medieval village that’s been converted into a unique hotel. We felt like we’d stepped back in time as we walked through the village’s stone archway and explored its winding streets.

 

 

Staying in one of the castle’s apartments was a truly immersive experience. We loved waking up to the sound of church bells and enjoying our morning coffee with views of the Tuscan countryside. The castle’s restaurant, serving traditional Tuscan cuisine, was the perfect end to each day of exploration.

How to get there: The castle is about 70 km southeast of Florence. You can drive or take a train to Arezzo, then a taxi to the castle.

 

Castello Del Boccale

Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Castello Del Boccale is one of the most picturesque castles in Tuscany. While the castle itself is not open to the public, the views from the nearby beach are simply stunning.

 

 

We spent a lovely afternoon exploring the rocky coastline and taking in the castle’s fairy-tale silhouette against the blue sea. It’s a perfect spot for photographers, especially during sunset when the castle is bathed in golden light.

How to get there: The castle is about 10 km south of Livorno. You can drive or take a bus from Livorno to Antignano.

 

Conclusion

Well, well, what are you waiting for? It is never too early to begin planning your tour of castles in Tuscany! Whether you are an avid history lover, a wine lover or just in search of a birds-eye view of Tuscany these fifteen magnificent castles and medieval fortresses will help make the Italy trip in 2024 truly remarkable. Do not leave your camera behind – and perhaps a comfortable pair of shoes to wear for all those tours in these top castles!