Italy is a country rich in brilliant scenery, from the winding canals in Venice to the ancient ruins across Rome and Pompeii and the gorgeous, sun-soaked Amalfi Coast. Yet, nothing quite rivals the beauty of an Italian Castle. From their intriguing histories to their unmatched architecture, these are the best castles in Italy to add to your itinerary.
From the Scaligero Castle on Lake Garda to Aragonese Castle on the idyllic island of Ischia, there is no shortage of these hidden gems in Italy. These ancient structures, some looming over small villages and others in the heart of major cities, hold ruins and museum complexes that any tourist will love.
This guide will take you through ten of the best, detailing the fascinating history of each fortress and everything you need to know about how to see them.
1. Scaliger Castle (Sirmione)
Scaliger, or Scaligero Castle, is the crowning jewel of Sirmione and one of the best things to see at Lake Garda. The castle is an impressive example of lake fortification, boasting tall walls and towers, a drawbridge entrance, and a dock, which was recently opened to the public in 2018 after its restoration.
This medieval castle was erected in the 14th century by the Scaliger family, which ruled over Verona between 1259 and 1387. Antonio II Della Scala, the lord at the time, intended for the castle to be used as a primary defensive fortress for Verona, but the fortress of Peschiera eventually took over that role. After that, it served as barracks, municipal and post offices, and even a prison until it became what it is today.
To see Scaliger Castle in all its glory, try a Sirmione boat cruise like this one, which will take you across Lake Garda and past the castle. However, it’s best to gain access to the interior museum portion. Tickets can be purchased from the official site or the on-site ticket office.
EXPLORE: More places to visit on the lake in our Lake Garda Itinerary Ideas.
2. Castello Grinzane (Piedmont)
When it comes to castles in Italy, the rolling hills of Piedmont are home to some of the best, and Castello Grinzane is no exception. The castle is surrounded by the green landscapes of the Langhe wine region and stands out brilliantly as both imposing and eye-catching.
This medieval fortress, built in the 11th century, has been owned by several influential families and noblemen over the last thousand years. Most notable is Camillo Benso di Cavour, a Piedmont statesman who arrived at Grizane in 1832. He was appointed mayor of the medieval village of Grizane and helped pave the way for agriculture and cultivation development. Castello Grinzane is now dedicated to informing and promoting the wine-making tradition.
Tickets to the Castello Grinzane can be bought on-site at the ticket office or online using TripAdvisor. You can also get an entrance ticket to the Langhe Museum from Viator, which is more accessible. It’s also important to note that larger groups should book ahead of time by at least one week.
Listen to “Palaces and Castles to Explore in Royal Piedmont” on Spreaker.
3. Castello Sforzesco (Milan)
Castello Sforzesco, or Sforza Castle for short, is set in beautiful Milan. It has distinctive red brick walls, stone archways, and two large towers. A large square sits in the center with a fountain, making it even more impressive. What makes the castle extra special is how it’s withstood the test of time.
Castello Sforzesco was first built in around 1358, ordered by the lord of Milan, Galeazzo II Visconti, only to be destroyed by the Ambrosian Republic in 1447. Following the demise of the Visconti family, Francesco Sforza ordered the castle to be rebuilt. Leonardo Da Vinci and Bramante later added to the castle's design by painting frescoes. Then, after even more damage during World War II, it was finally fully restored in 2005.
Now, it houses several different museums, ranging from Egyptian art to Michelangelo exhibits. Castello Sfozesco is free, but you’ll need to purchase combined tickets from the official website to access the museums inside. However, many people opt for guided tours instead. This Sforza Castle tour, for example, includes entry to the castle and the Pietà Rondanini museum.
4. Castello di Monteriggioni (Tuscany)
Castello di Monteriggioni is unique because it’s a small town rather than a single fortress, and it’s open to the public at all times. The 13th-century walled town is set in the stunning countryside of Siena, surrounded by green foothills, olive groves, and vineyards.
The Sienese built the Castello di Monteriggioni between 1214 and 1219 as a form of protection from the Florentines as they expanded their territories during the Middle Ages. The walls surrounding Monteriggioni are tall and imposing, boasting fourteen tall towers that display its defenses and survival over the centuries.
The best way to get there is by car, which you can park at the free parking at the bottom of the hill. Then, you can freely access Castello di Monteriggioni via Porta Romana or Porta Fiorentina and explore to your heart's content. You’ll find plenty of places to visit inside the town walls, including Piazza Roma, wine shops like Fattoria, and the Monteriggioni in Arms Museum.
You could also book a night or two at one of the accommodations, like the Monteriggioni Castello holiday home.
DISCOVER: Things to do in nearby Siena.
5. Castello Aragonese d’Ischia (Ischia)
Castello Aragonese d’Ischia, or the Aragonese Castle, sits on a volcanic rocky islet just east of Ischia Island and is connected to the mainland by a 700-foot-long stone bridge. It is arguably one of the most beautiful castles in Italy, with its ancient walls looming above the bright blue Mediterranean Sea.
Since its original construction around 474 BC by Hiero I of Syracuse, the Aragonese Castle has undergone three phases. The Syracusan tyrant, G