Castles in Italy: Castello delle Serre and other Tuscan Castles

Tuscany is known for its landscapes, history, artistic legacy, and its influence on high culture. During the wars of the Middle Ages, many castles were built to serve as protection, some of which have been restored and are open to visitors. Visiting a Tuscan castle will help you further understand the culture, history, and traditions of an area. After reading this guide, you’ll become an expert in the best castles in Italy and will probably want to plan your stay at Castello delle Serre.

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Castello delle Serre

Experience the Italian country life at Castello delle Serre. Built in the Late Medieval Period, this castle was restored and converted into a luxury bed and breakfast in the heart of Tuscany, just minutes from main attractions in the region. Stay the night and then visit churches, museums, shops, wineries, and other local points of interest during the day.

Castello delle Serre has perfected a balance of historic Italian countryside living with modern amenities. Relax by the pool with a drink from the bar while overlooking the rolling hills of Serre di Rapolano or sit in the shade of ancient trees surrounding the village. Especially when visiting in Tuscany in its prime weather, you will get one of the best views of the area during your stay.

There are six room options ranging from €245 to €650 per night to fit your exact needs. Stay in a room to have the Tuscan castle experience without breaking the bank, or live like royalty in one of the suite options. With various room accommodations, this castle offers a unique and charming stay within any budget.

Castello Malaspina di Fosdinovo

Built in the 12th century and restored in the mid-1900s, Castello Malaspina di Fosdinovo is known as the largest and best-preserved Italian castle in its area. It is located in Northern Tuscany between the Apuan Alps and the Tyrrhenian Sea coast.

The Malaspina fortress has four round towers, two courtyards, hanging gardens, galleries, and an abundance of history. Many of the rooms inside the castle were painted and decorated during the late 1800s. A museum spanning the entire structure contains collections of art, ceramics, weapons, tools, and torture devices. During the guided tour, you will learn about the history of the Malaspina family, architecture, and view contemporary art created by artists residing in the castle.

Castello di Poppi

Seated at the top of the ancient medieval village of Poppi is Castello di Poppi, formerly the property of the noble family of the Conti Guidi. Built in the tenth-century, this castle is known for its well-preserved dungeons and The Rilliana Library, home to an antique collection of thousands of volumes and manuscripts. Visitors can purchase entry tickets to the castle to tour the library among the various rooms in this three-story castle.

Tours of Chianti & Florence

Castello di Verrazzano

Between the cities of Florence and Siena lies Castello di Verrazzano, a castle with a winemaking history beginning in the 12th century.  The castle’s most notable resident was Giovanni da Verrazzano, the explorer who discovered the New York bay in the early 1500s (New Yorkers may be familiar with the bridge that was named for him in 1960).

In 1958, the Cappellini family restored the castle and surrounding 52 hectares of vineyards. Today, visitors can choose from a selection of tours that include the castle’s gardens, historical aging cellars, and of course, wine tasting. No trip to Italy is complete without visiting the wine country of Tuscany.

Castello Vicchiomaggio

Overlooking the Greve in Chanti Valley, Castello Vicchiomaggio was built in the late 1500s. Due to continuous restoration, this castle is extremely well preserved and is considered a national monument. Throughout its history, there have been many notable guests, with the most famous being Leonardo da Vinci, during which he painted The Mona Lisa.

Sitting on 145 hectares, the Vicchiomaggio estate, in addition to the castle, has a vineyard and olive groves. When visiting, you can choose from guided tours, wine tasting, and cooking classes. Using local, fresh ingredients, chefs from the on-site restaurant assist guests in creating traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Tours of Chianti & Florence

Hey, we sell tours too!

While the information we provide in this post is free, we also sell tours at pretty reasonable prices. Looking to conquer Florence with experts? You’ve come to the right place. We have a vast selection of Florence tours that will allow you to see the best sites in the city.

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