Imagine You’re sipping Chianti on a stone terrace draped in ivy, gazing at the Tuscan hills as the sun dips below a medieval tower. No, this isn’t a scene from a movie—it’s what awaits when you rent a castle in Italy. From fairy-tale weddings to epic family reunions, Italy’s castles offer a mix of history, luxury, and “pinch-me” moments. Let’s explore the best castles to rent and how to book your own slice of la dolce vita.
- Why Rent a Castle in Italy?
- Best Castles to Rent in Italy
- Luxury Castle Stays in Italy
- Tuscany’s Timeless Castle Retreats
- Northern Italy’s Fortified Elegance
- Central Italy’s Hidden Treasures
- Practical Tips for Booking Your Castle Stay
- Conclusion: Your Italian Castle Awaits
- FAQs About Renting a Castle in Italy
- How much does it cost to rent a castle in Italy?
- 2. Can I rent a castle for a small group or just a couple?
- 3. What legal documents do I need to rent a castle in Italy?
- 4. Are utilities like heating and Wi-Fi included in the rental price?
- 5. Do I need a car to access remote castles in Italy?
- 6. Can I host a wedding or event at an Italian castle?
Why Rent a Castle in Italy?
Before we dive into the where, let’s talk about the why. Italy’s castles aren’t just accommodations—they’re time machines. Imagine:
- Sleeping in a 1,000-year-old fortress where knights once clanked down hallways.
- Hosting a wedding in a frescoed ballroom lit by chandeliers.
- Exploring secret gardens where Renaissance nobles once strolled.
Plus, castles often cost less per person than a hotel when split among friends. (Yes, really—more on that later.)
Best Castles to Rent in Italy
To simplify your search, here’s a quick comparison of Italy’s top castle rentals:
Luxury Castle Stays in Italy
| Castle Name | Region | Price Range (Nightly) | Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montegufoni Castle | Tuscany | €1,200–€5,000 | 15th-century frescoes, vineyards, infinity pool | Weddings, groups of 6+ |
| Le Torri di Bagnara | Umbria | €4,000–€10,000 | Two castles, 1,500-acre forest, organic farm | Luxury retreats (15–30 guests) |
| Castello di Petritoli | Le Marche | €1,500+ | Entire medieval village, Adriatic Sea access | Mega-groups (up to 200!) |
| Castello di Casalta | Tuscany | €600–€1,500 | 13th-century fortress, 15 mins from Florence | Couples/small families |
| Rocca Calascio | Abruzzo | €200–€800 | Sky-high medieval village, hiking trails | Adventure seekers |
| Castello di Miramare | Friuli-Venezia Giulia | €800–€2,500 | Neo-Gothic palace, Adriatic Sea views | History buffs |
Tuscany’s Timeless Castle Retreats
Tuscany’s castles are the stuff of postcards—think sunlit vineyards, olive groves, and hilltop panoramas.
Montegufoni Castle: Renaissance Royalty
This 10th-century marvel near Florence is the spot for history lovers. Rent a 2-bedroom suite (from €1,200/night) or the entire castle (sleeps 22) for €5,000/night. Highlights:
- Original frescoes by Masaccio (yes, the Masaccio).
- Private wine tastings in the estate’s cellar.
- Wedding-ready gardens with views of the Arno Valley.
Castello di Casalta: Florence’s Best-Kept Secret
Just 15 minutes from Florence, this restored 13th-century fortress blends medieval charm with modern perks like Wi-Fi and AC. The 3-bedroom villa (€1,500/night) sleeps six and comes with a private pool overlooking the Chianti hills.
Why we love it: Day trips to the Uffizi Gallery and sunset aperitivos on your terrace.
Northern Italy’s Fortified Elegance
Prefer Alpine vistas or lakeside grandeur? Northern Italy delivers.
Castello di Miramare: Adriatic Drama
Built for Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian in the 1850s, this neo-Gothic castle near Trieste oozes romance. While the main castle is a museum, you can rent guesthouses on the grounds (from €800/night). Don’t miss:
- Cliffside gardens with tropical plants.
- Boat tours of the Gulf of Trieste.
Fun fact: The archduke later became Emperor of Mexico—talk about a global legacy!
Sforza Castle: Milan’s Urban Oasis
Want a castle in the city? Milan’s Sforza Castle occasionally rents historic apartments (price on request). You’ll sleep steps from the Duomo and La Scala, with private access to the castle’s art-filled halls.
Alternative: Prefer countryside serenity? Try Magione Castle in Umbria (from €200/night).
Central Italy’s Hidden Treasures
Umbria, Le Marche, and Abruzzo offer rugged beauty and fewer crowds.
Rocca Calascio: The Eagle’s Nest
Perched at 1,400 meters in Abruzzo, this 10th-century fortress is Italy’s highest castle. Rent a stone cottage (from €200/night) and spend your days hiking the Gran Sasso mountains or stargazing from the ramparts.
Movie buffs: Recognize it? The Name of the Rose and Ladyhawke were filmed here!
Castello di Petritoli: Rent a Whole Village
For €1,500/night, you can book Petritoli’s 37-bedroom castle plus its surrounding B&Bs and hotels—sleeping 200 guests. Highlights:
- Cobblestone piazzas for alfresco feasts.
- 15-minute drive to Adriatic beaches.
Ideal for: Destination weddings or multi-gen family trips.
Practical Tips for Booking Your Castle Stay
Budget Like a Pro
- Hidden costs: Heating ancient stone walls? Pricey. Budget an extra 20% for utilities.
- Off-season steals: Rent San Martino in Colle in Umbria (€235/night) from Nov–March vs. €500+ in summer.
Avoid Legal Surprises
- Short-term rentals: Ensure your host provides a contratto di locazione turistica (tourist lease).
- Security deposits: Typically 1–2 months’ rent. Confirm refund terms in writing!
Get Around Stress-Free
Most castles are rural. Rent a car via Auto Europe or hire a driver.
Conclusion: Your Italian Castle Awaits
Whether you’re toasting in a Umbrian forest fortress or wandering Tuscany’s frescoed halls, renting a castle in Italy is a bucket-list experience. Start planning early (think 6–12 months ahead for summer!), prioritize your must-haves (pool? WiFi? Proximity to Rome?), and don’t shy away from negotiating extras like a private chef.
Ready to live like royalty? Browse Italy’s top castle rentals and start packing your crown.
FAQs About Renting a Castle in Italy
How much does it cost to rent a castle in Italy?
Prices vary depending on size, location, and season. Smaller castles like Castello di Casalta in Tuscany start around €600–€1,500/night, while grand estates like Le Torri di Bagnara in Umbria can exceed €10,000/night. For budget-friendly group options, Castello di Petritoli in Le Marche offers rates as low as €7.50/person/night when fully booked.
2. Can I rent a castle for a small group or just a couple?
Absolutely! While many castles cater to large groups, properties like Rocca Calascio in Abruzzo offer cozy 1-bedroom cottages (from €200/night). Castello di Casalta also has options for couples or small families.
3. What legal documents do I need to rent a castle in Italy?
Short-term rentals (under 30 days) require a contratto di locazione turistica (tourist lease). Ensure your host registers your stay with the local council (comune). Non-EU travelers need a valid passport, and long-term stays (90+ days) require a visa. Always confirm security deposit terms upfront—they’re typically 1–2 months’ rent (refundable post-stay).
4. Are utilities like heating and Wi-Fi included in the rental price?
Not always! Many castles charge extra for heating (especially in winter) and cleaning fees. For example, Montegufoni Castle lists base rates but adds 20–30% for utilities. Always ask for a breakdown of costs before booking.
5. Do I need a car to access remote castles in Italy?
Most rural castles (like Rocca Calascio or Le Torri di Bagnara) require a car. Rent one through Auto Europe or hire a driver. Urban castles, such as Milan’s Sforza Castle, are accessible by public transport.
6. Can I host a wedding or event at an Italian castle?
Yes! Castles like Montegufoni and Le Torri di Bagnara specialize in weddings. Ensure the property has event permits and ask about in-house services (catering, décor). For large groups, Castello di Petritoli even rents the entire village for 200 guests.
