Have you been looking for some magical castles in Tuscany to visit? Well look no further, this is a list of must-see, can’t-miss-it, castles in Tuscany that you absolutely must visit on your trip to a region renowned for its history, landscapes and influence on culture felt around the world. 

Whether you are spending 10 days in Italy, have a little more time like 2 weeks, or are renting a car and planning an Italy road trip, you are going to want to stop to see some of these stunning Tuscan castles! 

Tuscan castles are spread throughout the region, from Pisa, home of the Leaning Tower of Pisa itself, to Arezzo, a small city further inland, castles in Tuscany are everywhere. Some of these Tuscany Castles have been in the families that own them for generations, some function as wineries, and there are many that allow visitors to stay on property overnight, where you can enjoy the peaceful, radiant landscapes of the Tuscan countryside or seaside. Whether you are planning the ultimate Tuscany Road Trip or visiting for the day, you won’t be disappointed by these stunning castles in Tuscany!

10 Magical Fairytale Castles in Tuscany You Can’t Miss

Castello di Brolio

First up on this incredible list of castles in Tuscany is the imposing Brolio Castle, located just north of Gaiole in Chianti. The castle itself is the birthplace of Chianti wine, which was invented by Baron Bettino Ricasoli in 1872. The Castello di Brolio has been in the Ricasoli family since it was built in 1141 and has endured many wars, battles, and several sieges.

The entire property itself has close to 3,000 acres featuring 26 olive groves and hundreds of acres of vineyards. You absolutely can not miss a trip to the winery which is open all year long! There is also a museum and a beautiful garden, a restaurant featuring authentic Italian cuisine where the vegetables used comes directly from the chef’s organic gardens. Sunset is one of the most beautiful times of day here, with a gorgeous golden hour, you can even book a sunset tour!

Castello di Sammezzano

The Castello di Sammezzano is a gem in the hills of Italy. As far as castles in Tuscany go, Sammezzano Castle is unique. over the years the castle has changed hands many times, at one point it was even in the possession of a member of the Medici family, but mid-19th century, the castle fell into the hands of Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes D’Aragona, an Italian politician who redesigned the ancient castle in the “Oriental” style that had taken over Europe, turning it into the eyecatcher it is today.

While this Tuscany castle is closed to the public, group tours can be booked to see the castle by visiting the website of Castello di Sammezzano. The architecture and design that you can find here is truly one of a kind and definitely worth heading over to see.

Castello di Banfi

Castello Banfi, is one of the most stunning castles in Tuscany, situated on sprawling hills, with vineyards surround the structure, which is also a luxury hotel in Montalcino, Tuscany. This Tuscany castle is also home to two restaurants, a winery and with its picture-perfect looks, could be straight out of a movie. These are just some of the reasons that make Castello di Banfi a perfect place out of our list of castles in Tuscany for an engagement or wedding.

Banfi Castle as it stands today was built up in the 1700s using the roots of a previous castle. Over the years it has come to be known as an essential destination for those looking for a relaxing getaway. The hotel also offers several excursions such as horseback riding, private tours, a spa, Hot Air Ballooning, and yoga classes, among other options. Castello di Banfi is out of a dream which is why it should top your list of castles in Tuscany to visit!

Castello di Valenzano

Castello di Valenzano looks like it could be right out of Game of Thrones with its severe architecture, red brick towers, and imposing turrets. Valenzano castle dates back to before the 10th century and could even have been an ancient outpost for the Salt Road. Like many castles in Tuscany, the castle has been turned into a hotel which offers several suites, a bar, restaurant, horseback riding excursions, a golf course, and tennis courts.

One of the biggest draws of this Tuscany castle are weddings. The property looks incredible, like out of a dream with such a light and airy feeling to the photos taken her, especially int he early morning. Of course, your photos can be modeled after your own taste, but there is a dreamy quality to much of the property and hills surrounding a gorgeous stop on our castle in Tuscany tour. 

The castle also features ample space for business meetings, small conventions, and events besides weddings. The salon room where these events are held can hold up to 300 people, giving you plenty of room as far as castles in Tuscany go! 

Castello di Montalto

When visiting one of the many castles in Tuscany, many if not almost all of them have several hundred years of history. Castello di Montalto has over a millennium of history and was a key location in the war between Sienna and Florence. This Tuscany castle eventually fell under Medici rule and that of their home city of Florence, which ended up being a peaceful time for the area allowing the growth of crops that are still in practice today. Castello di Montalto currently operates as a fully certified organic farm, with products such as extra virgin olive oil, eggs, and fresh veggies. Family members of the castle also produce wine which is available for purchase and enjoyment.

Castello di Montalto with its rich history and beautiful halls is a perfect place to stay on your trip visiting the castles of Tuscany. The castle itself can host up to 45 people which can be housed in several of the stone building that make up the castle as a whole. We really love this because who doesn’t like a bit of privacy, especially when you’re staying at your dream destination and whether you are surrounded by friends and family or strangers, a little privacy never hurt.

The owners of the castle frequently host small concerts, cooking classes, and themed dinners. The staff is readily available and willing to help you plan trips to nearby towns and cities and offer their recommendations. Don’t miss this beautiful medieval spot among the castles in Tuscany.

Poppi Castle

Poppi Castle is a must hit destination on your Castles in Tuscany tour. The Tuscany castle is thought to have been built in the 13th century and changed hands several times, though it has been inhabited since the day it was built. As you can see from the photo above, there is a bit of a difference in the left and right sides of the building, this is because they were constructed at different times and by different people. 

The prominent tower featured at Poppi Castle comes with its own centuries-old legend, the short version being that a sister the Guido family, the owners of the castle, was known as a “black widow” who would imprison visiting men in the tower. Eventually, the village people got fed up when she set her eyes on one of there own young men and demanded justice, locked her up in the tower and walled her in. While this may seem like a chilling story, let’s not forget that after a centuries-old game of telephone and sexism, there may be little truth to the story, but all the same, it’s definitely an interesting legend!

Since the castle sits on a hill, there are some epic views that look out on majestic and breathtaking valley’s . There is a cafe open seasonally where you can get some snacks and enjoy the scenery in the shadow of the walls. While there is a charge to tour the castle, it’s quite small and definitely worth it for the views. Make sure to check out this amazing castle in Tuscany, and don’t forget to snap some great pictures.

Castello Vicchiomaggio

Tuscany is a stunning place to visit, most if not all of it is visually stimulating with its rolling hills and breathtaking valley’s. Castello Vicchiomaggio looks like the setting of a scene in a James Bond movie. It’s elegant, pristine, and is a must-see among the castles in Tuscany. The Tuscany castle is a 4-star hotel which has features such as its own restaurant, a stunning panoramic infinity pool, vineyard, and olive trees.

Vicchiomaggio Castle is over 1,000 years old, it was rebuilt during the Rennaissance, so much of the architecture and features aren’t quite as medieval as some of the other Tuscany castles on this list. Vicchiomggio Castle is in close proximity to Florence and all that spectacular city has to offer, and the staff at the castle are happy to give you advice on where you should visit.

Castello di Cabbiavoli

Castello di Cabbiavoli is a shining example of what someone pictures when they think of castles in Tuscany. The Castle is surrounded by picture-perfect vineyards, olive groves, grain, and sunflower fields. The current owners are quite involved with the agricultural side of their estate as they want to ensure that the traditional methods of growth are respected and followed.

The Castle dates back to 1210, and was constructed by a prominent noble family, both for its perfect location in the countryside and relative proximity to Florence (30 km). In the 17th century, the castle was renovated and turned into the elegant country mansion that you can see today. Over time there have been more renovations, but great care has been taken to preserve the authenticity of the Tuscan aesthetic and atmosphere.

The Property features several smaller houses beside the main castle, almost all of which can be rented for a perfect stay. There is a pool on property for guest usage and a rather large garden. Horseback riding excursions can be requested and booked and there is also a prestigious golf course nearby, Castelfalfi Golf Club which features a course of 27 holes, something not many castles in Tuscany can boast of.

Castello del Boccale

This epic castle sits right on a rugged cliff on the ocean and was constructed by the Medici family in the 16th century. The Medicis were one of the most powerful families in the world for several centuries and became powerful because of the wealth they accumulated through their bank. If you don’t know anything about them or their fascinating history, check out the show Medici, on Netflix. Castello del Boccale is one of our personal favorites, both for its location and aesthetics. Its quite dramatic and also gives you a look into the politics, culture, art, and scenery of the Tuscan countryside.

Recently, this castle in Tuscany was converted into apartments, so though you aren’t able to tour the interior, the views from outside are amazing, especially at sunrise and sunset. If you get hot, take a dip in the clear blue Mediterranean waters, and then relax on the surrounding rocks. Nearby is the town of Livorno where you can grab a bite to eat at a restaurant, or stop at a market and get a few things to bring back to the cliffs and picnic in front of a stunning sunset.

Castello di Montegufoni

The Castello di Montegufoni, while being a beautiful destination castle in Tuscany, is also home to a room of frescoes painted by Gino Severini, who was commissioned by Sir George Sitwell (the owner of the castle) in 1921. The room, which is called “La Sala delle Maschere” or “The Room of Masks” is a must hit stop, especially for the art lovers out there.

The castle is available to be rented and is perfect for family vacations and weddings. The stone outbuildings have also recently been restored giving you more space if you are having a big family trip, or perfect for a smaller getaway for 1 or 2. On property, there is a beautiful terrace to be found in the garden with lemon trees, a swimming pool, and table tennis available for a bit of friendly competition between friends or other guest staying at this Tuscany castle. Castello di Montegufoni also has its own restaurant on the estate, though it isn’t far from the town of Montagnana, Florence or Pisa where shops and restaurants abound.

Castello di Cabbiavoli

Castello di Cabbiavoli is a shining example of what someone pictures when they think of castles in Tuscany. The Castle is surrounded by picture-perfect vineyards, olive groves, grain, and sunflower fields. The current owners are quite involved with the agricultural side of their estate as they want to ensure that the traditional methods of growth are respected and followed.

The Castle dates back to 1210, and was constructed by a prominent noble family, both for its perfect location in the countryside and relative proximity to Florence (30 km). In the 17th century, the castle was renovated and turned into the elegant country mansion that you can see today. Over time there have been more renovations, but great care has been taken to preserve the authenticity of the Tuscan aesthetic and atmosphere.

The Property features several smaller houses beside the main castle, almost all of which can be rented for a perfect stay. There is a pool on property for guest usage and a rather large garden. Horseback riding excursions can be requested and booked and there is also a prestigious golf course nearby, Castelfalfi Golf Club which features a course of 27 holes, something not many castles in Tuscany can boast of.

While this definitely isn’t a complete list of all of the castles in Tuscany, we hope you found somewhere that sparked the wanderlust in you. Tuscany is a beautiful region, known for its scenery and history as well as its wine, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful destination, from golf to shopping, wining and dining. Plenty of stunning castles can be found in the Tuscan region and are available for rent or tours!