Sleep Like Royalty: The 13 Fairytale Castle Hotels in Tuscany You Can Actually Book
Live like nobility for a weekend or a week—these Tuscan castle hotels combine centuries of history with modern luxury and unforgettable views.
Imagine waking up in a medieval tower with vineyard views, dining under candlelit arches, and sipping Brunello where nobles once held court. In Tuscany, castles aren’t just museum pieces—they’re hotels. And not just any hotels, but unforgettable stays where history, wine, and luxury collide in spectacular fashion.
Whether you’re tracing winding roads through Chianti or chasing sunsets in Val d’Orcia, one thing is clear: staying in a castle hotel in Tuscany isn’t just travel—it’s time travel.
After exploring countless corners of the region—and writing about the best rental Tuscan villas and agriturismos in Tuscany—I can tell you this: if you’re coming to Tuscany, staying in a castle isn’t optional. It’s essential.
Let’s go beyond the postcards and step inside the best castle hotels in Tuscany, where turrets meet truffle dinners, olive groves meet open-air spas, and every stone has a story.
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1. Castello Banfi il Borgo – Montalcino, Val d’Orcia
Perched above the vineyards of the legendary Brunello di Montalcino wine country, Castello Banfi il Borgo combines medieval grandeur with refined Tuscan charm. The castle was originally built in the 12th century and later expanded by noble families. Today, it’s the beating heart of one of Italy’s most prestigious wine estates.
The accommodations are set within the castle’s medieval hamlet, with stone walls, beamed ceilings, and warm Tuscan textiles giving each suite a sense of timeless luxury. Step outside and you’re greeted with sweeping panoramas of the Val d’Orcia—a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of soft hills, cypress-lined roads, and golden fields.
Guests enjoy privileged access to Banfi’s renowned winery, with tastings of Brunello vintages and private vineyard tours. Dining at La Taverna or the Michelin-starred Sala dei Grappoli elevates the experience, combining local ingredients with world-class technique. A stay here is not just about sleeping in a Tuscan castle—it’s about living Tuscany’s most celebrated wine culture.
See rates for Castello Banfi il Borgo and reserve your wine country stay.
2. Castello di Vicarello – Poggi del Sasso, Grosseto Province
Hidden in the wild Maremma countryside, Castello di Vicarello feels like stepping into a Tuscan fairytale. The 12th-century fortress has been lovingly restored into a boutique luxury retreat, its ancient walls wrapped in ivy, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Inside, the décor is eclectic yet elegant: think vintage Balinese furniture mingled with Italian antiques, sumptuous fabrics, and terracotta floors that whisper of centuries past.
The castle features just seven suites, each individually designed, making the stay deeply personal and intimate. Guests can unwind in the infinity pool overlooking rolling hills, take a cooking class in the castle kitchen, or sip the estate’s own organic wine as the sun sets.
Castello di Vicarello is also a favorite among celebrities seeking discretion. If you’re craving romance, tranquility, and an immersion into Tuscany’s soulful landscapes, this is the castle hotel that delivers pure magic.
Check the rates for Castello di Vicarello and plan your royal escape.
3. Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel – Casole d’Elsa, Siena Province
For those who want luxury on a grand scale, Castello di Casole is the quintessential Tuscany castle hotel. Set on a 4,200-acre estate once owned by Italian nobility, this 10th-century castle has been transformed by Belmond into a sanctuary of elegance and indulgence.
The interiors reflect refined Italian craftsmanship: frescoed ceilings, rich tapestries, and marble bathrooms alongside modern comforts. Suites overlook vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, creating a sense of serene grandeur. Outside, two infinity pools seem to float into the Tuscan countryside, while the spa offers treatments rooted in ancient Etruscan traditions.
The castle grounds are vast enough for truffle hunting, cycling, and even hot-air balloon rides. Celebrities have also found their way here—many actors and directors, such as Luchino Visconti, have stayed on the estate. For anyone dreaming of an opulent escape, Castello di Casole offers the kind of Tuscan fantasy you never want to end.
Check availability at Castello di Casole for your luxury Tuscan getaway.
4. Castello Pietraio WineResort – Near Monteriggioni, Siena Province
Tucked away near the storybook town of Monteriggioni, Castello Pietraio WineResort is an authentic 11th-century fortress reborn as a haven for wine lovers. Its ancient stone towers and crenellated walls still exude medieval strength, yet within, the rooms are warm, rustic, and inviting, with terracotta floors, antique wood, and romantic canopied beds.
The highlight of staying here is immersing yourself in Tuscan wine culture. The estate produces its own Chianti and Vernaccia wines, which you can taste in the castle’s historic cellars. Evenings often spill into slow dinners with regional dishes, accompanied by bottles straight from the vineyard.
Its location is another draw: close to Siena, San Gimignano, and Monteriggioni, it’s ideal for exploring Tuscany’s historic jewels. Castello Pietraio feels less like a polished hotel and more like stepping into a living piece of history—where every glass of wine and every sunset view is infused with centuries of tradition.
View rates for Castello Pietraio WineResort and book your wine-lover’s retreat.
5. Castello di Spaltenna – Chianti
Nestled among the vineyards of Gaiole in Chianti, Castello di Spaltenna is a medieval monastery-turned-luxury retreat where Tuscan history meets timeless elegance. Dating back to the 10th century, the castle complex features a Romanesque church, cloisters, and stone towers rising above rolling vineyards. Today, it offers sophisticated interiors with terracotta floors, wood-beamed ceilings, and large windows framing the Chianti countryside.
The estate includes two exquisite restaurants—La Terrazza for casual dining and Il Pievano, a Michelin-starred experience set in the old monastery hall with frescoed walls and candlelit tables. Guests can unwind at the spa, swim in indoor and outdoor pools, or stroll through vineyards producing world-class Chianti Classico.
With its mix of history, gastronomy, and romance, Castello di Spaltenna captures everything travelers dream of when they picture Tuscany. Whether sipping wine under ancient arches or exploring the vineyards, it’s an immersive experience that blends past and present seamlessly.
Check rates for Castello di Spaltenna and treat yourself to a Chianti fairytale.
6. Castello di Bibbione – San Casciano in Val di Pesa, Florence Province
Castello di Bibbione rises gracefully above the Chianti hills, just a short drive from Florence, making it an ideal base for exploring Tuscany. Built in the 9th century and later fortified by the noble Buondelmonti family, the castle has been transformed into a romantic country resort while retaining its medieval charm.
Inside, rustic elegance defines the rooms and apartments: terracotta floors, vaulted ceilings, wooden furniture, and sweeping vineyard views. Outside, a pool with panoramic vistas invites long afternoons of relaxation, while the surrounding countryside offers olive oil tastings, wine tours, and leisurely hikes.
Legend has it that Niccolò Machiavelli often visited the castle, and walking its courtyards still carries the weight of Renaissance history. Yet, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for travelers who want an authentic Tuscan stay that’s equal parts history and comfort.
View rates for Castello di Bibbione and book your Chianti countryside escape.
7. Castello di Gabbiano – Mercatale in Val di Pesa, Florence Province
Surrounded by nearly 250 hectares of vineyards, Castello di Gabbiano is a quintessential Tuscan wine estate and one of the oldest castles in the region. The structure dates back to the 12th century and was once a defensive fortress. Today, it welcomes travelers as both a working winery and a refined castle hotel.
The rooms are decorated in rustic Tuscan style—wooden beams, wrought-iron beds, and stone accents. From your window, the view stretches over undulating vineyards that still produce Gabbiano’s celebrated Chianti Classico wines. Guests can enjoy private wine tastings, stroll through the vineyards, or dine al fresco in the castle courtyard.
What makes Castello di Gabbiano so special is its accessibility—it’s only 30 minutes from Florence, yet it feels a world away. Perfect for wine enthusiasts and romantic dreamers alike, this castle offers both history and hedonism in one of Italy’s most famous wine regions.
Check availability and rates for Castello di Gabbiano to sip and stay in Chianti.
8. COMO Castello del Nero – Between Florence and Siena, Chianti
For modern luxury in a medieval setting, COMO Castello del Nero is one of the best castle hotels in Tuscany, Italy. Set in a 12th-century castle surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, it seamlessly combines heritage architecture with COMO’s sleek, contemporary design.
The rooms and suites balance historical details—stone fireplaces, frescoes, vaulted ceilings—with minimalist décor and cutting-edge amenities. The COMO Shambhala Retreat spa is a destination in itself, offering wellness programs, yoga, and treatments that blend Eastern and Western traditions. Three restaurants, including the Michelin-starred La Torre, elevate dining to an art form.
Castello del Nero’s location is unbeatable: right in the Chianti hills, equidistant between Florence and Siena, it makes an ideal base for exploring Tuscany’s cultural treasures. Yet with its tranquil grounds and luxurious offerings, many guests never feel the need to leave.
See rates for COMO Castello del Nero and indulge in world-class luxury.
9. Castelletto di Montebenichi – Between Siena and Arezzo
Perched on a hilltop between Siena and Arezzo, Castelletto di Montebenichi feels like stepping into a private Tuscan fantasy. This intimate castle, dating back to the Middle Ages, has been restored with exquisite attention to detail by owners who turned it into a refined boutique hotel.
The interiors blend antiques, Renaissance art, and rich fabrics, creating a warm, aristocratic atmosphere. Each suite feels personal and unique, with four-poster beds, stone fireplaces, and sweeping countryside views. The castle is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, with a tranquil pool overlooking the valleys below.
Unlike larger estates, Montebenichi exudes intimacy. Guests are treated less like tourists and more like friends of the noble family. This is the kind of castle hotel where evenings are spent sipping wine in the library or wandering through manicured gardens as the sun sets.
Check the rates for Castelletto di Montebenichi and reserve your Tuscan hideaway.
10. Castello di Tornano Wine Relais – Chianti
In the heart of Chianti, Castello di Tornano Wine Relais offers a taste of authentic medieval life. The 11th-century fortress still retains its original stone tower, battlements, and dramatic courtyards, transporting guests straight into Tuscany’s feudal past.
The rooms are decorated in rustic, medieval style—stone walls, wooden beams, and wrought-iron chandeliers. Some suites even have circular tower rooms with panoramic windows. Guests can dine in the old castle halls, sample wines from the surrounding vineyards, and swim in a pool framed by olive trees and fortress walls.
For travelers craving a true “sleeping in a castle” experience, Tornano is one of the most atmospheric Tuscany castle hotels. Its authenticity, combined with modern comforts, makes it a memorable stay for couples and families alike.
View rates for Castello di Tornano and step into medieval Tuscany.
11. Castello di Potentino – Grosseto Province
Wild, romantic, and authentic, Castello di Potentino sits in a hidden valley on the slopes of Mount Amiata. The castle dates back to the 11th century and remains a family-run retreat, emphasizing community, wine, and culture rather than polished luxury.
The rooms are simple but soulful, decorated with antique furniture and rustic charm. What sets Potentino apart is its vibrant cultural life: art exhibitions, concerts, and workshops often take place within its medieval walls. The estate also produces acclaimed natural wines, and guests are invited to join tastings and tours.
Potentino attracts creatives, writers, and dreamers seeking inspiration in its rugged setting. Staying here feels like being part of a living project, where past and present meet in extraordinary ways.
Check rates for Castello di Potentino and discover Tuscany’s hidden creative retreat.
12. Castello di Fighine – San Casciano dei Bagni, Siena Province
On a hilltop overlooking the Tuscan countryside, Castello di Fighine is a meticulously restored medieval fortress surrounded by a hamlet of villas and cottages. The estate, owned by British theatrical producer John Matheson, is known for its elegance and exclusivity.
The interiors are refined, blending Renaissance architecture with antique furnishings and modern comforts. Lush gardens, olive groves, and a Michelin-starred restaurant curated by chef Heinz Beck make the experience both indulgent and intimate. The castle hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, adding a creative spirit to its historic beauty.
Located near the hot springs of San Casciano dei Bagni, Fighine is a retreat into both luxury and well-being. It’s one of the most refined and private castle hotels in Tuscany—perfect for those seeking peace in a setting of unparalleled beauty.
See rates for Castello di Fighine and book your exclusive Tuscan retreat.
13. Hotel della Fortezza – Sorano, Grosseto Province
Dramatically perched on a volcanic cliff in southern Tuscany’s “Little Matera,” Hotel della Fortezza offers something truly unique. Built within the 11th-century Orsini Fortress of Sorano, this hotel immerses guests in medieval history while offering modern hospitality.
The rooms are simple yet atmospheric, with stone walls, wooden beams, and windows overlooking the rugged Tuscan landscape. Walking through its courtyards and ancient passageways feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. Unlike the polished luxury of other castle hotels, Hotel della Fortezza leans into authenticity and adventure.
Its location is extraordinary—Sorano is surrounded by the tufa towns of Pitigliano and Sovana, some of Tuscany’s most fascinating hidden gems. Staying here is perfect for travelers who crave history, culture, and a sense of discovery.
Check rates for Hotel della Fortezza and experience Tuscany’s medieval south.
Travel Tips for Staying in a Tuscany Castle Hotel
Staying in a Tuscany castle hotel is one of those experiences you’ll never forget. To make the most of it, keep these travel tips in mind:
- Rent a car: Many castles in Tuscany to stay in are in rural areas, surrounded by winding roads, vineyards, and hill towns. Driving gives you the freedom to explore Florence, Siena, Chianti, and beyond. Explore the rental cars here.
- Choose the right season:
- Spring (April–June) means wildflowers and mild weather.
- Summer offers long golden evenings and lively events.
- Autumn is magical with the grape harvest and truffle season.
- Pack wisely: Bring comfortable shoes for exploring cobbled courtyards, vineyards, and medieval staircases.
- Slow down: Don’t overpack your itinerary. Enjoy castle life—sip wine at sunset, dine in ancient halls, or relax by the pool.
Booking Advice for the Best Castle Hotels in Tuscany
The best castle hotels in Tuscany, Italy, are boutique treasures, and they book up fast. Here’s how to secure your dream stay:
- Book early: Reserve at least 6 months ahead for sought-after estates like Castello Banfi il Borgo or Castello di Casole.
- Consider smaller gems: Castles like Castello di Potentino or Castelletto di Montebenichi offer intimate, unique stays that fill quickly, too.
- Compare rates: Check trusted booking sites, but also explore the hotel’s direct website—many offer perks like wine tastings, spa credits, or upgrades.
- Travel off-season: Early spring and late autumn bring atmospheric landscapes, fewer crowds, and often better rates.
- Match your style: Decide if you want wine immersion, spa luxury, or rustic medieval authenticity—there’s a Tuscany castle hotel for every traveler.
Conclusion
Tuscany is a land that never disappoints. I’ve returned time and again, writing about its agriturismi and villa stays, but nothing compares to the magic of waking up inside a castle. From the vineyard-draped elegance of Castello Banfi il Borgo to the artistic soul of Castello di Potentino, each of these castle hotels in Tuscany, Italy offers not just a bed for the night, but an experience that lingers long after you’ve returned home.
Staying in a Tuscany castle hotel is about more than luxury—it’s about stepping into history, embracing the rhythm of the countryside, and indulging in the romance that only this region can offer. Whether you’re planning a road trip across Chianti and Val d’Orcia or seeking a secluded retreat in the Maremma hills, there’s a castle here waiting to make you feel like royalty.
So go ahead—choose your favorite among the best castle hotels in Tuscany, check the rates, and book the fairytale stay you’ve always dreamed of. After all, Tuscany isn’t just a destination; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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