A 50-room, 12th-century estate on 740 acres, just a quick drive from Florence.

Modern. There's Wi-Fi, of course, but you can also expect vaulted ceilings and intricate frescoes. Why play Lord of the Manor in anything else?

Fairy tales do come true—how else do you explain COMO Castello Del Nero? The castle has been owned by just three famiglias in some 900 years—proof of its staying power—and yes, they treat guests like one of their own. Rooms would wow even the most discerning Italian Instagram influencer, thanks to high ceilings, dottings of chintz and age-old exposed beam ceilings. (Book the Presidential Suite for private access to the home’s original library, complete with a fireplace bearing the Del Nero family’s coat of arms.) Don’t leave without taking at least one dinner at La Torre, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking Chianti’s rolling hills, where classic dishes include slow-poached egg with black truffle and crispy Cinta Senese cured pork cheek.

You’re a bit devastated that Italy no longer has a monarchy, so you’re very willing to try out the royal experience—or, what it might be—in one of the most sumptuous estates in the country. And a day of horseback riding through the olive groves is the perfect antidote to a day of riding the crowded sidewalks of Florence.

Climbing into a loaner Fiat 500 or hopping on bright-red Vespa—one of a fleet owned by the estate—you feel like Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday. If Audrey had hit the brakes for antiques and cheese, that is.

La Torre - Michelin Star - Five star service in a 12th century castle, elegance and beauty converge above the Chianti countryside.

La Taverna -Authentic tastes of Tuscany served by the pool overlooking the vineyards or atmospheric dining rooms.

The Bar - The panoramic terrace for aromatic spritzes flavoured with garden herbs, and a fiery hearth for autumnal evenings.

Wine Cellar - Descend the stone staircase to the castello’s 12th century cellars, store to an outstanding restaurant wine list.