Dreamy Castles in Tuscany for your Wedding | A Photographer’s Guide

Few destinations rival the timeless elegance of Tuscany when it comes to destination weddings. With its rolling vineyards, golden light, and centuries-old architecture, the region offers a dreamlike setting for couples looking to tie the knot in style.

Among its many charms, Tuscany is home to an impressive collection of historic castles, each one offering an unforgettable atmosphere for both weddings and photography. In this guide, we’ll explore the magic of getting married in a Tuscan castle, what makes them unique, and how to choose the perfect one for your special day.

Tuscany: A Dream Destination for Weddings

Tuscany is often considered the crown jewel of Italian romance. Its serene countryside, charming medieval villages, world-renowned cuisine, and sweeping vistas create an ambiance that feels both luxurious and deeply intimate. From Florence’s Renaissance allure to the rustic elegance of Siena and the Chianti wine region, Tuscany has something for every couple.

Tuscany’s mild climate, especially in spring and early autumn, makes it an ideal location for outdoor ceremonies and photo sessions. The golden hour here, with its warm, diffused sunlight, is a photographer’s dream. Whether you’re envisioning a lavish celebration or a quiet elopement, Tuscany provides the ideal canvas for love stories captured on film.

Why Choose a Castle Wedding Venue in Tuscany?

Choosing a castle for your wedding in Tuscany isn’t just about the grandeur—it’s about the history, the architecture, and the atmosphere. Tuscan castles date back centuries and often feature original stone walls, ivy-covered facades, and sweeping views of olive groves and vineyards. For photographers, they provide a dynamic environment full of texture, light, and dramatic backdrops that enhance every image.

While castles are a top-tier choice, Tuscany offers a range of other venue types: vineyard estates, luxurious villas, ancient monasteries, rustic farmhouses (in Italian agriturismo), and charming town halls for civil ceremonies. Each has its charm, but castles offer a fairytale quality that’s hard to match.

They’re also versatile—many have on-site chapels, grand halls for receptions, gardens for outdoor ceremonies, and accommodations for guests, making them a one-stop venue for your entire wedding experience.

How to Choose the Best Castle for Your Wedding

With so many enchanting castles to choose from, selecting the perfect one can feel overwhelming. Start by considering your guest count—some castles are suited for grand, 150+ person affairs, while others are perfect for intimate gatherings. Then think about your desired aesthetic: Do you want a moody medieval fortress, a refined Renaissance palace, or a countryside villa-style castle?

Next, consider logistics. Proximity to major towns like Florence or Siena can make travel easier for your guests. It’s also important to ask about vendor flexibility—some castles offer in-house planning and catering, while others allow you to bring your own team. Finally, always request to see a full wedding gallery from the venue. This gives you insight into how the space photographs in different lighting and seasons, helping both you and your photographer plan for a visually stunning event.

Top 10 Castles in Tuscany for your Destination Wedding in Italy

1. Castello di Casole – A Belmond Hotel

Located in the heart of the Tuscan countryside near Siena, Castello di Casole is a luxury resort that seamlessly blends medieval charm with modern elegance. The estate offers a variety of stunning locations for ceremonies, including the picturesque rose garden, the panoramic terrace, and the serene swimming pool area. Each spot provides a unique backdrop, from lush greenery to breathtaking views of the rolling hills.

The resort’s 39 rooms and suites are designed to accommodate guests in comfort and style. Couples can enjoy bespoke services, including private spa treatments, wine tastings, and personalized wedding planning assistance. The on-site Tosca restaurant offers exquisite Tuscan cuisine, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all guests. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Castello di Casole provides a versatile and enchanting setting for a wedding.

Accommodations: Offers 39 suites, with 10 connecting rooms and 9 twin-bed options, accommodating up to 78 guests.
Ceremony: Ceremonies can be held in the San Tommaso Chapel for religious services, the Town Hall for civil ceremonies, or outdoors on the terraces or amphitheater for symbolic ceremonies.
Views and Locations: Set within 4,200 acres of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, the castle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Wedding Size: Ceremonies and receptions can accommodate between 25 to 150 guests, depending on the combination of locations used.

Perfect for: Couples seeking a luxurious and historic setting with a variety of ceremony options and stunning countryside views.

2. Castello di Velona – Thermal Spa & Winery

Perched atop a hill in the Val d’Orcia region, Castello di Velona offers unparalleled panoramic views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 1,000-year-old castle is renowned for its natural thermal waters, available in both the interconnected indoor and outdoor pools and select private rooms. Couples can exchange vows in the castle’s scenic terraces or opt for a ceremony at the nearby 9th-century Sant’Antimo Abbey.

The estate boasts 45 luxury suites, many featuring private terraces and thermal hot tubs. In-house Michelin-starred catering provides tailored menus, complemented by the estate’s own Brunello di Montalcino wine and organic extra virgin olive oil. Additional amenities include a spa, wellness center, and a range of activities such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and hot air balloon rides, ensuring a comprehensive and luxurious wedding experience.

Accommodations: 45 luxury suites, many with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, accommodating up to 115 guests.
Ceremony: Multiple ceremony locations, including five scenic terraces with unique features, the Pool Terrace with a thermal water pool, and the nearby 9th-century Sant’Antimo Abbey for religious ceremonies.
Views and Locations: Perched atop a hilltop, providing 360-degree views of the Brunello vineyards and the stunning Val d’Orcia countryside, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Wedding Size: Outdoor spaces can accommodate up to 200 guests, while indoor spaces can host up to 150 guests.

Perfect for: Couples desiring a luxurious and historic venue with thermal spa amenities and breathtaking panoramic views.

3. Castello di Celsa – 16th-Century Elegance

Located near Siena, Castello di Celsa is a 16th-century castle that offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The estate features a 16th-century chapel beneath the castle’s highest tower, surrounded by meticulously maintained Italian gardens and expansive parklands, providing a romantic setting for ceremonies.

For receptions, the castle offers a restored barn with two spacious rooms and a bright open loggia overlooking the countryside. The barn can accommodate up to 180 guests and is equipped with modern amenities, including a catering support room and guest restrooms. The estate’s experienced team assists couples in planning every detail, ensuring a seamless and memorable wedding celebration.

Accommodations: La Limonaia, a separate building, can accommodate up to 10 people in 5 large bedrooms.
Ceremony: Ceremonies can be held in the 16th-century chapel beneath the castle’s highest tower, surrounded by the Italian Garden and Park, or in the Castle’s courtyard.
Views and Locations: The estate features a 16th-century chapel surrounded by the Italian Garden and Park, offering a romantic setting for ceremonies.
Wedding Size: The Barn can host up to 180 guests, with two large rooms and a bright open loggia overlooking the countryside.

Perfect for: Couples seeking a blend of historical charm and modern amenities in a serene countryside setting, not far from Siena.

4. Castello di Meleto – Historic Vineyard Estate

Nestled in the Chianti region, Castello di Meleto dates back to 1256 and offers a picturesque setting for weddings. The estate features a private chapel for intimate ceremonies and provides accommodations in charming farmhouses and a watchtower. The surrounding vineyards and rolling hills create a serene and romantic atmosphere for celebrations.

The estate’s experienced staff offers personalized wedding planning services, assisting couples in organizing every aspect of their special day. From bespoke menus to floral arrangements, Castello di Meleto ensures a tailored and unforgettable wedding experience. The venue’s rich history and natural beauty make it an ideal choice for couples seeking a traditional Tuscan wedding.

Accommodations: Inside the property there is accommodation in self-catered apartments (11 apartments), 7 double rooms inside the Castle and 4 rooms in the country houses, for a total up to 60 people adding extra beds.
Ceremony: Ceremonies can be celebrated on the grounds of the Castle, in the garden or in the private Chapel.
Views and Locations: Nestled in the Chianti region, the estate features a private chapel for intimate ceremonies and provides accommodations in charming farmhouses and a watchtower.
Wedding Size: 40 to 160 guests

Perfect for: Couples seeking a traditional Tuscan wedding in a historic vineyard estate.

5. Castello di Brolio – Noble Heritage and Vineyards

Situated in the Chianti Classico region, Castello di Brolio is a historic castle known for its noble heritage and extensive vineyards. The estate offers a variety of venues for ceremonies and receptions, including the castle’s gardens and wine cellars, providing a unique and atmospheric setting for weddings.

Couples can enjoy guided tours of the estate’s vineyards and cellars, learning about the production of the renowned Chianti Classico wines. The estate’s experienced team assists in planning every detail of the wedding, ensuring a seamless and memorable celebration. With its rich history and stunning surroundings, Castello di Brolio offers a distinctive and elegant venue for a Tuscan wedding.

Accommodations: No
Ceremony: Private Chapel
Views and Locations: Situated in the Chianti Classico region, Castello di Brolio is a historic castle known for its noble heritage and extensive vineyards.
Wedding Size: Intimate weddings

Perfect for: Couples seeking a distinctive and elegant venue with a rich history and stunning surroundings, in one of the oldest wineries in the world.

6. Castello di Vicarello – Intimate and Exclusive

Situated in Cinigiano, Castello di Vicarello is a 13th-century medieval castle offering an intimate and exclusive setting for weddings. The estate features nine suites, accommodating up to 22 guests, and provides a range of services to ensure a personalized and memorable celebration.

Couples can enjoy bespoke wedding planning services, including customized menus, floral arrangements, and entertainment options. The estate’s experienced team assists in organizing every detail, ensuring a seamless and stress-free wedding experience. With its serene atmosphere and personalized services, Castello di Vicarello is an ideal choice for couples seeking an intimate and exclusive wedding venue.

Accommodations: Features nine suites, accommodating up to 22 guests, with arrangements for over 100 additional guests at trusted nearby venues.
Ceremony: Ceremonies can be held within the Castle itself or at a romantic spot in the garden, followed by aperitifs in the courtyard, whilst enjoying the stunning sunset views from the roof terrace.
Views and Locations: Situated in the Maremma region of Tuscany, surrounded by views of organic vineyards, olive groves, and farmland.
Wedding size: The venue can host up to 200 guests for both the ceremony and reception.

Perfect for: Couples seeking a secluded, fairytale-like setting with luxurious amenities and the flexibility to host both intimate and grand celebrations.

7. Montegufoni Castle – Medieval Charm and Modern Comfort

Located in Montespertoli, Montegufoni Castle dates back to the 13th century and offers a blend of medieval charm and modern comfort. The estate features a variety of venues for ceremonies and receptions, including the main courtyard, the Salone Severini dining room, and the candle-lit Limonaia, providing versatile options for weddings.

Accommodations: The castle comprises 39 unique apartments and houses, accommodating up to 140 guests. Each apartment is distinct, featuring original frescoes and fireplaces.
Ceremony: Couples can opt for a civil ceremony at the nearby Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, a symbolic ceremony within the castle’s majestic Corte dei Duchi, or a Catholic ceremony at the adjacent Church of San Lorenzo.
Views and Locations: Located near Florence, the castle offers panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape, including characteristic farms, castles, and cypress-lined hills.
Wedding Size: The venue can accommodate up to 140 guests for both the ceremony and reception.

Perfect for: Couples desiring a romantic and intimate setting with historical significance, offering a range of ceremony options and proximity to Florence.

In conclusion: Why Choose a Castle in Tuscany for Your Destination Wedding in Italy

Choosing a castle in Tuscany for your destination wedding is more than a venue decision—it’s the beginning of an unforgettable experience. These centuries-old fortresses are not only rich in history and architectural beauty but also offer a timeless, cinematic setting that turns your wedding into a true fairytale. Whether you’re exchanging vows under a canopy of cypress trees, hosting a candlelit dinner in a frescoed hall, or dancing beneath the stars on a panoramic terrace, every moment is framed by Tuscany’s magical light and soul-stirring landscapes.

Tuscany’s castles are remarkably versatile, catering to both grand celebrations and intimate elopements. From the vineyards of Chianti to the thermal springs of Val d’Orcia, each castle offers its own unique charm—yet all deliver exceptional hospitality, romantic seclusion, and a deep sense of place. With world-class food, wine, and professional planning services available, these venues take the stress out of destination weddings and ensure your day is as effortless as it is elegant.

For couples who dream of a wedding that blends old-world charm with modern luxury—and for photographers who want every frame to tell a story—a Tuscan castle is the ultimate setting. Here, history lives in every stone, the views are endless, and your love story becomes part of the landscape.